Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and challenges of foldable smartphones, particularly focusing on OPPO's journey in overcoming the persistent issue of creases in foldable screens, highlighting their significant investment and technological advancements in this area [2][4][7]. Group 1: OPPO's Journey in Foldable Technology - OPPO has been working on foldable screen technology since 2014, with a dedicated team led by Cheng Jiao, who has been with the company since its early days [5][12]. - The company has invested over 3 billion yuan in research and development for foldable screens, resulting in more than 3,500 technology patents [7]. - OPPO's latest model, the Find N6, aims to tackle the crease issue, which has been a significant barrier in the foldable smartphone market [4][54]. Group 2: Challenges and Innovations - The foldable smartphone industry has faced numerous challenges, particularly with the crease problem, which has led to delays and strategic shifts among major players like Apple and Samsung [2][4]. - OPPO's approach has been characterized by a commitment to solving one major issue with each product iteration, leading to significant advancements in design and functionality [8][28]. - The development of the Find N3 highlighted the limitations of OPPO's internal capabilities, prompting a reevaluation and restructuring of their R&D processes to better support future innovations [27][32]. Group 3: Collaboration and Supply Chain - OPPO has established a collaborative ecosystem termed "Sky Partner," which includes key suppliers like Samsung and Amphenol, to enhance their foldable technology [47][50]. - The company emphasizes a partnership approach with suppliers, viewing their challenges as shared responsibilities, which fosters a collaborative environment for innovation [48][49]. - The integration of various teams within OPPO has improved efficiency and innovation in the development of foldable technology, particularly in addressing the complexities of screen, hinge, and material design [32][41]. Group 4: Future Directions - OPPO plans to continue addressing the crease issue in future models while maintaining the lightweight and thin design achieved in the Find N5 [55][56]. - The company recognizes the importance of battery life and AI technology in future foldable devices, indicating a shift towards enhancing overall user experience [58]. - The commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in foldable technology reflects OPPO's long-term vision for the smartphone market [60][61].

Core Viewpoint - The foldable smartphone market has transitioned from a niche innovation to a mainstream product, with Huawei capturing nearly 70% market share, indicating a significant shift in consumer preferences towards foldable devices [1][15][22] Group 1: Market Position and Consumer Sentiment - Over 90% of consumers are considering foldable smartphones for their next purchase, with Huawei being the preferred choice due to its technological advancements and ecosystem [1][15] - Huawei has maintained the leading market share in the foldable smartphone sector in China for five consecutive years, reaching a remarkable 68.9% market share in the first three quarters of 2025 [15][16] Group 2: Product Innovation and Features - The Huawei Mate X7 represents a comprehensive re-engineering of the foldable smartphone experience, emphasizing not just hardware but also user interaction and system architecture [2][9] - The Mate X7 features a new "Time-Space Door" camera module and incorporates traditional craftsmanship into its design, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and cultural significance [5][6] - The device is designed to be ultra-thin and reliable, weighing approximately 235 grams with a thickness of only 4.5mm when unfolded, addressing durability concerns that have historically hindered foldable phones [6][9] Group 3: Imaging and AI Capabilities - The Mate X7 breaks the limitations of foldable phones in imaging, achieving flagship-level photography capabilities with significant improvements in color accuracy and low-light performance [10][11] - Video recording capabilities have also seen substantial enhancements, with improved dynamic range and clarity, supported by advanced AI and software integration [11][12] Group 4: Market Strategy and Consumer Engagement - Huawei's strategy includes offering extensive customer service benefits, such as free screen protection services and a comprehensive care program, to enhance consumer trust and satisfaction [21][22] - The Mate X7 is positioned not just as a consumer device but as a productivity tool, facilitating mobile office experiences and intelligent task management through AI [12][22]

Core Insights - The article highlights the evolution of foldable smartphones, particularly focusing on Huawei's advancements and market leadership in this segment [1][3][14] - Huawei's Mate X7 is positioned as a transformative product that enhances user experience and redefines the value of foldable screens, moving from novelty to mainstream acceptance [1][4][15] Market Position and Strategy - Huawei has established a dominant position in the foldable smartphone market, with a projected market share of 75% in China by mid-2025, indicating that three out of every four foldable phones sold will bear the Huawei logo [3] - Despite increasing competition, Huawei maintained a 68.9% market share in the third quarter, reinforcing its status as a leader in the foldable segment [3] Product Innovation - The Mate X7 represents a shift from merely achieving foldability to enhancing overall user experience, focusing on durability, camera capabilities, and AI integration [4][11][12] - The device features a robust protective architecture, including advanced materials and design innovations that significantly improve durability and usability [9] Design and Aesthetics - The Mate X7 incorporates a unique camera module design and integrates traditional Chinese craftsmanship, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and cultural significance [6][7] - The use of innovative materials and design elements aims to create a product that resonates with users on both a functional and emotional level [6][7] Technological Advancements - The device employs cutting-edge technology to address common issues in foldable phones, such as fragility and performance, ensuring a reliable user experience [9] - The camera system has been upgraded to deliver superior image quality, with significant improvements in light intake and color accuracy, positioning the Mate X7 as a leading imaging device in its category [11] User Experience and Services - Huawei emphasizes a comprehensive user experience, offering services such as HUAWEI Care+ for enhanced customer support and peace of mind [12] - The integration of AI capabilities in the Mate X7 enhances productivity and user interaction, making it a versatile tool for everyday tasks [12] Industry Impact - Huawei's continuous innovation in the foldable smartphone sector is seen as a catalyst for industry-wide advancements, pushing competitors to follow suit and raising overall standards [14][15] - The Mate X7 is expected to facilitate the transition of foldable phones from niche products to mainstream devices, broadening their appeal to a wider audience [15]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes Huawei's pioneering role in the three-fold smartphone market, highlighting its transition from concept to commercial product and establishing a new standard in the mobile terminal experience [1][4][9]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The three-fold smartphone market has recently gained attention, with Huawei being the first to successfully commercialize this technology, setting a benchmark for the industry [1][4]. - After a year, a second player has entered the three-fold market, validating Huawei's early strategic foresight [3]. - The Chinese foldable smartphone market is projected to see significant growth, with IDC reporting a 17.8% year-on-year increase in shipments by Q3 2025, reaching 2.63 million units [11]. Group 2: Technological Challenges and Innovations - The complexity of three-fold technology, including intricate hinge systems and the need for a mature supply chain, posed significant challenges that Huawei overcame to lead the market [4][5]. - Huawei's first commercial three-fold phone, the Mate XT, marked the beginning of a new era in the industry, demonstrating the company's ability to turn a high-concept idea into a viable product [9][19]. - The Mate XT features a 10.2-inch screen and is noted for being the lightest and thinnest foldable smartphone available, weighing only 298g and measuring 3.6mm at its thinnest point [19]. Group 3: Ecosystem and User Experience - Huawei's HarmonyOS, with its distributed architecture, enhances the user experience by enabling seamless task management and a high level of application compatibility, achieving over 95% adaptation for commonly used software [13]. - The integration of hardware and software allows for a unique user experience that redefines productivity and entertainment, making the three-fold device more than just a larger screen [13][15]. - Huawei's commitment to sharing technological advancements with the industry has helped push the foldable screen sector towards maturity, benefiting the entire supply chain [21]. Group 4: Strategic Vision and Future Outlook - Huawei's approach to the three-fold market reflects a broader vision of innovation, where the company not only leads in product development but also shapes industry standards [6][16]. - The article suggests that Huawei's pioneering efforts in the three-fold space could inspire other manufacturers to join the market, potentially leading to a new wave of technological advancements [21].

Core Viewpoint - The foldable smartphone market is transitioning from a growth phase to a mainstream adoption phase, with Huawei leading the industry with a significant market share and innovative product offerings [2][4][10]. Market Position and Share - Huawei holds nearly 70% of the foldable smartphone market share in China as of the first three quarters of 2025, solidifying its position as the industry leader [4][16]. - In the high-end market segment (priced above $600), Huawei captures approximately one-third of the market share, showcasing its dominance in premium offerings [4][10]. - The competitive landscape shows Huawei far ahead, with its closest competitor, Honor, holding only 11.2% market share, while Vivo has 5% [9][10]. Product Innovation and Development - Huawei has introduced a diverse range of foldable smartphones, including large foldable, small foldable, tri-fold, and wide-fold models, making it the most innovative player in the market [21][30]. - The Mate X series, starting with the original Mate X, has set industry standards with its unique hinge design and continuous technological advancements, culminating in the Mate X6 and the groundbreaking Mate XT [22][27]. - The recent launch of the Mate XTs further emphasizes Huawei's commitment to innovation, featuring the world's thinnest tri-fold design and advanced user experience capabilities [24][26]. Ecosystem and User Experience - Huawei's HarmonyOS ecosystem plays a crucial role in enhancing the user experience of foldable smartphones, providing seamless integration across devices and applications [43][44]. - The company has focused on addressing user needs by offering products that combine portability with functionality, appealing to both business professionals and younger consumers [32][41]. Market Trends and Future Outlook - Despite a recent slowdown in overall market growth, Huawei's strategic focus on foldable smartphones has allowed it to maintain a strong position and set industry trends [14][46]. - The increasing acceptance of foldable smartphones among consumers, with 70.1% expressing interest in purchasing one, indicates a robust potential market [32]. - As the foldable smartphone market matures, Huawei is expected to continue leading through technological innovation and ecosystem development, driving further growth in the industry [46].