Huawei launches world's first tri-fold Phone in South Africa

By Charles Mkoka

Huawei has officially launched the world’s first tri-fold smartphone, the Mate XT, now available in South Africa.

The debut of the Mate XT coincides with the local release of the Huawei Mate X6, giving professionals and tech enthusiasts in the country access to two of the most advanced foldable devices in the brand’s lineup.

Both flagship models were introduced on the same day Huawei announced a new partnership with South Africa’s iconic Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club. The Mate XT is priced at R70,000 (approximately US$3,500).

Originally unveiled in September last year at a global price of US$2,800, the Z-shaped Mate XT transforms from a compact form into a 10.2-inch tablet-sized display — offering exceptional portability and versatility in one device.

Huawei touts the Mate XT as the world’s thinnest smartphone when fully unfolded, measuring just 3.6mm.

 Despite its ultra-slim profile, it packs powerful capabilities, including a 5.5x telephoto lens and an ultra-wide-angle camera, signaling a major leap forward in mobile imaging and design innovation.

To ensure long-term durability, Huawei says the device’s folding mechanism is crafted with ultra-high-strength steel, built to withstand frequent use without compromising reliability.

The launch underscores Huawei’s continued push to regain its foothold in the global smartphone market, despite ongoing challenges linked to U.S. sanctions, restrictions on Android access, and limited microchip supply.