GoKawiilXiaomi and Huawei launch new foldables days before Apple's rumored debut
Xiaomi released the Xiaomi 18 Fold and Huawei unveiled the Mate XT2 trifold this week, both timed just ahead of Apple's Wednesday event where the company is expected to reveal its first foldable iPhone under CEO John Ternus. Analysts say the Chinese manufacturers are trying to lock in buyers before Apple enters the foldable market.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Counterpoint Research projects Apple could capture 25% of the global foldable market this year, rising to 40% by 2027, meaning existing players have a narrow window to build loyalty before Apple's entry reshapes demand. The rush of launches shows how much pent-up interest exists among iPhone users who held off switching to Samsung or other foldable brands, waiting for an Apple option.
- Xiaomi and Huawei both launched new foldable phones just before Apple's rumored foldable iPhone reveal.
- Counterpoint Research forecasts Apple could hit 25% foldable market share in 2025, growing to 40% by 2027.
- Foldable phones remain a high-growth, high-price segment attracting fierce competition among major smartphone makers.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Smartphone — If the foldable race has you curious, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold7 is the book-style foldable you can actually buy today, the very design Xiaomi and Apple are chasing. Unfolded, it gives you a tablet-sized screen for multitasking and video, then folds down to pocket size.
See Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Smartphone on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: cnbc.com — Arjun Kharpal, 2026-09-08
Published there as: “Chinese giants Xiaomi, Huawei race to get ahead of Apple’s rumored foldable iPhone”
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