Xiaomi presented this Monday, at an event in China, the Xiaomi 18 Fold, its new top-of-the-line foldable smartphone, just days before Apple presents its new generation of iPhones. The device adopts a format similar to a passport when closed and, when opened, allows three applications to be used side by side. The smartphone weighs 219 grams and is only 5.02 millimeters thick when open, characteristics that the Chinese company's CEO, Lei Jun, presented as advantages compared to Apple's models.
The Xiaomi 18 Fold is equipped with the XRing O3 AI, a processor developed internally by Xiaomi and supported by artificial intelligence. According to Lei Jun, the chip delivers superior performance to Apple's A19 Pro. The device also features a 6,000 mAh battery compatible with 60 W fast charging and a rear camera module with a 200 MP main sensor, 50 MP telephoto lens, and 50 MP ultra-wide-angle lens. Prices range from 10,999 yuan (1,411 euros) to 14,999 yuan (1,924 euros), with no set date for its arrival in markets outside China.
Huawei also presented the new generation of its foldable smartphone, the Mate XT2, which folds twice and transforms into a screen with dimensions similar to those of a tablet. The device is equipped with the Kirin 9050 Pro processor and includes a redesigned hinge, greater water resistance, and a privacy screen. The company claims the new model offers 42% more performance than the previous generation. Prices start at 19,999 yuan (2,566 dollars) and go up to 24,999 yuan (3,207 euros), with sales beginning on September 12. Huawei maintains its leadership in the Chinese foldable smartphone market, where it represented 68% of sales in the second quarter.
The presentation of these new models takes place in a particularly important week for the foldable smartphone market, with Apple preparing to finally enter this segment. The company is expected to present a foldable iPhone, likely designated iPhone Ultra, at the event scheduled for Wednesday.
