Huawei will unveil its next-generation tri-fold smartphone and HarmonyOS 7 on Sept. 7, days before Apple is expected to reveal its first foldable iPhone.
Huawei has confirmed that its next-generation Mate XT 2 tri-fold smartphone will launch Sept. 7, putting the Chinese technology company in the spotlight just days before Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone.
Huawei announced the launch through its official Weibo presence, confirming a “HarmonyOS 7 | HUAWEI Mate XT 2 and All-Scenario New Product Launch” event for Sept. 7 at 2:30 p.m. local time. The event will also mark the formal introduction of HarmonyOS 7, Huawei’s latest operating system.
The timing is notable because Apple is widely expected to hold its annual iPhone event on Sept. 8 or Sept. 9. Current reports indicate that the company could introduce the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max alongside its first foldable iPhone, although Apple has not officially confirmed the event date or the foldable device.
That gives Huawei an opportunity to establish its Mate XT 2 as one of the first major foldable-phone stories of September before Apple potentially enters the category.
The Mate XT 2 will follow Huawei’s commercial tri-fold strategy established with the Mate XT Ultimate Design. Huawei introduced the original Mate XT in September 2024, and the company describes it as the world’s first commercially available tri-fold smartphone. The device can unfold into a large 10.2-inch display.
Huawei has yet to disclose the Mate XT 2’s complete specifications, design changes, pricing or availability. The company’s promotional material has so far focused on the launch event and the upcoming HarmonyOS 7 platform.
HarmonyOS 7 will be a major part of the presentation. Huawei has been testing the operating system across a broad range of devices, with the company positioning HarmonyOS as the foundation of its connected ecosystem spanning smartphones and other consumer products.
The launch also comes as Apple prepares for a potentially important expansion of the foldable market. Rumors indicate Apple’s first foldable could carry a book-style design and launch alongside its premium iPhone 18 models. However, those details remain unconfirmed by Apple.
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