Huawei Unveils Impressive Trifold Mate XT: A Tech Marvel You Can't (and Probably Shouldn't) Buy Yet

Huawei’s recently unveiled trifold phone, the Mate XT, is undeniably impressive, but it comes with significant caveats that make it hard to recommend for purchase, especially outside China. Launched in China more than six months ago, the device is now available in a few select markets, though notably absent from the US and Europe. The Mate XT retails for nearly $4,000, making it one of the priciest phones on the market. Additionally, the phone lacks native support for Google apps, is limited to 4G connectivity, and raises concerns about durability due to its intricate folding mechanisms and exposed screen edges. Despite these drawbacks, the Mate XT is a technological showcase that highlights Huawei’s innovative capabilities. It is the only trifold phone currently available, a status that might change soon as rumors suggest Samsung is preparing to release a similar device. For now, however, Huawei is the sole player in this niche market. The Mate XT’s main appeal lies in its versatility, offering three distinct user experiences depending on how it is folded. When fully closed, it resembles a conventional smartphone with a 6.4-inch display. It is slightly thicker than other foldable phones but remains manageable and features solid build quality and decent cameras. Opened halfway, the Mate XT transforms into a 7.9-inch foldable, providing additional screen real estate, though this setup might not be ideal for most users. Fully extended, the phone becomes a 10.2-inch tablet, perfect for streaming videos and gaming, given its wide aspect ratio and substantial screen size. One of the standout features of the Mate XT is its impressive battery life. The 5,600mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day and even longer, though this performance is primarily achieved through moderate use and not keeping the phone fully open all the time. As a tablet, the battery might struggle to meet the demands of intensive usage. Durability is a critical issue for the Mate XT. The dual hinges introduce multiple points of potential failure, and the phone has no IP rating, meaning it offers no protection against water or dust. The exposed screen edge is particularly concerning, as it is susceptible to nicks, scratches, and dents. Even with careful handling, my review unit showed signs of wear and tear. While the Mate XT’s multitasking capabilities are advanced, allowing for the simultaneous use of up to three apps with one in a floating window, there are limitations. The phone occasionally reboots apps when switching between configurations, which can be frustrating, especially when completing long tasks or writing reviews. However, these occasional hiccups are generally manageable, and the phone’s overall performance remains robust. Workarounds exist to install almost any app, including Google services, though some features like Google Wallet NFC payments are unsupported. Despite the high cost and durability concerns, Huawei's hardware is undeniably top-notch, making the Mate XT a compelling demonstration of what trifold technology can achieve. Industry insiders and tech enthusiasts agree that Huawei's entry into the trifold market is a significant milestone, albeit one with considerable challenges. The company’s track record in hardware innovation is commendable, but the lack of Google support and premium price point might deter many mainstream users. Huawei, known for its commitment to cutting-edge technology and robust product development, continues to push the boundaries of smartphone design. However, until these issues are resolved and the technology matures, the Mate XT remains more of a technological curiosity than a practical everyday device.