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].

任何产业技术的迭代发展与做大， 都离不开先行者的孤勇及开拓。 时代的领先者，是敢于走在行业前面的人。 2024年，华为推出全球首款商用三折叠，把不可能变为可能，让科幻成为现实。那时候的华为或许不会想到，自己会在这条赛道独行这么久。 一年多后，第二位三折叠玩家正式入局，这个细分的赛道热闹起来，也第一次迎来了真正意义上的同行者。 在这之前，这条技术密度极高、供应链门槛极深的赛道始终只有华为"独行者一人"，并且迭代两代产品。华为不仅把三折叠从工程样品带到量产普及，更提 前把生态、交互、应用适配等系统能力铺设到了可持续进化的状态，用当下流行的话来说便是：华为三折叠的含金量还在上升。 因而说，这场"行业竞逐的热闹"，其实是给华为这位孤勇者响亮、确凿的一声回响。 折叠开创者 开创三折叠时代 几年前，当折叠屏市场形成内折、外折以及竖折三种主流方案之后，就有外界开始畅想三折叠。起初这一形态并不被行业看好，原因并不是缺乏想象力，而 是当时的技术与产业链都不足以支撑三折叠走出概念阶段。 一方面，双铰链系统与大面积柔性屏的组合，让工程难度几乎指数级放大；另一方面产业链也尚未成熟，要实现三折叠，就需要柔性屏、UTG玻璃、铰链 MIM ...

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].

Core Viewpoint - Huawei is the only company making significant advancements in the three-fold smartphone market, establishing itself as a leader in this unique segment with the launch of the Mate XTs Master Edition, which enhances user experience through PC-level applications and ecosystem integration [2][32]. Market Position and Performance - Huawei's first-generation Mate XT achieved nearly 500,000 units in sales within a year, demonstrating its dominance in the three-fold market, where no other competitors have successfully launched similar products [5][32]. - Huawei holds a 75% market share in the three-fold segment, as reported by IDC, and has established a product matrix that includes dual-fold, three-fold, and wide-fold devices, with total shipments exceeding 10 million units [5][38]. Technological Innovations - The Mate XTs Master Edition incorporates powerful PC capabilities into a mobile device, allowing it to serve as a "pocket PC" that meets diverse user needs, from information consumption to mobile office tasks [4][11]. - The device features a 10.2-inch large screen and supports a "free multi-window" mode, enabling users to run multiple applications simultaneously, akin to a desktop experience [13][15]. Ecosystem Development - Huawei's ecosystem, built on the HarmonyOS, allows seamless integration across devices, enhancing user experience by providing a unified operating environment for smartphones, tablets, PCs, and other devices [28][35]. - The introduction of the M-Pen 3 further expands the device's functionality, enabling efficient note-taking and information management, thus enhancing productivity [23][25]. User Experience and Application - The Mate XTs Master Edition is designed to provide a desktop-level experience in a mobile format, allowing users to perform complex tasks without switching applications, thereby improving workflow efficiency [21][30]. - Applications have been optimized for the large screen, enhancing user engagement in entertainment and productivity scenarios, making the device a versatile tool for various tasks [30][31].

Core Points - Huawei has launched its second foldable smartphone, the Huawei Mate XTs, with a starting price of 17,999 yuan and a maximum price of 21,999 yuan, compared to the previous generation Mate XT which was priced between 19,999 yuan and 23,999 yuan [1] Pricing Summary - The starting price of Huawei Mate XTs is 17,999 yuan [1] - The maximum price for Huawei Mate XTs is 21,999 yuan [1] - The previous generation Mate XT was priced from 19,999 yuan to 23,999 yuan [1]

Core Insights - Apple has decided to abandon its self-developed solution for its first foldable iPhone, opting instead to use Samsung Display's technology, with plans for mass production in the second half of 2026 [1][14] - The move to collaborate with Samsung's suppliers, particularly for the hinge technology, is likely aimed at shortening development time and avoiding further delays in product launch [1][14] - The foldable iPhone's anticipated release has prompted domestic competitors like Xiaomi, Vivo, and Honor to accelerate their own product launches in the foldable segment [1][4] Group 1: Market Dynamics - From June 24 to July 2, Xiaomi, Vivo, and Honor launched new foldable models, indicating a strategic push against Apple's market position [2][5] - Apple's market share in China has declined from 21% to 15% between Q4 2023 and Q1 2025, attributed to the rise of domestic brands and slow advancements in AI and foldable technology [12][14] - IDC data predicts that Apple will hold an 18.7% market share in 2024, surpassing Samsung for two consecutive years, despite recent challenges [2] Group 2: Competitive Landscape - The introduction of the foldable iPhone is expected to intensify competition in the foldable smartphone market, which is currently considered a niche segment [9][11] - Domestic brands are focusing on breaking Apple's ecosystem barriers, with features that enhance compatibility with Apple devices [10][11] - The foldable iPhone's launch could significantly elevate the overall market perception and acceptance of foldable smartphones, potentially expanding the market size [9][12] Group 3: Product Features and Innovations - The new foldable models from Xiaomi, Vivo, and Honor emphasize lightweight design, battery capacity, and AI capabilities, with Honor's Magic V5 being the thinnest at 8.8mm and featuring a 6100mAh battery [5][10] - The competitive edge of these brands lies in their ability to offer differentiated features while targeting high-value users who may be considering a switch from Apple [8][11] - The foldable iPhone's collaboration with Samsung is seen as a strategic move to leverage Samsung's advanced technology while maintaining Apple's brand strength [14][15] Group 4: Future Outlook - The foldable smartphone market is entering a phase of heightened competition, with Apple’s entry marking a significant shift [11][22] - As the market evolves, companies will need to focus on software integration and user experience to differentiate themselves beyond hardware specifications [22] - The anticipated release of the foldable iPhone presents both opportunities and challenges for existing players in the market, necessitating innovative strategies to maintain relevance [11][22]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and significance of hinge technology in foldable smartphones, highlighting the different types of hinges, their advantages and disadvantages, and the impact of material innovations on performance and cost [2][5][6]. Industry Perspective - Foldable hinge technology has undergone multiple iterations since the first commercial foldable phone was launched in 2019, leading to various technical routes and design philosophies [2]. - The main types of hinge technology include U-shaped hinges, waterdrop hinges, and other types, each with unique characteristics affecting crease control, thickness, cost, and durability [2]. U-Shaped Hinge - The U-shaped hinge, exemplified by the Samsung Galaxy Fold series, is a simpler and cost-effective design but suffers from significant drawbacks such as visible creases and potential screen damage over time [3]. - This hinge design has been criticized for allowing dust ingress and causing aesthetic issues due to gaps when closed [3]. Waterdrop Hinge - The waterdrop hinge, commonly used by domestic manufacturers like OPPO and Huawei, allows for a larger bending radius, reducing screen creases and providing a seamless closure [4]. - While offering advantages such as shallower creases and improved user experience, the complexity of the waterdrop hinge increases production costs and device thickness [4]. Evolution of Hinge Technology - The evolution of hinge technology reflects the transition of foldable smartphones from being merely functional to providing a better user experience, with advancements in materials and structural design [5]. - The latest innovation is Huawei's "Tiangong Hinge System," which supports both inward and outward folding, marking a new stage in hinge technology development [5]. Material Innovations - The performance of foldable hinges is closely tied to material selection, with advancements from traditional stainless steel to revolutionary liquid metal materials enhancing strength and fatigue resistance [6]. - Metal Injection Molding (MIM) is the mainstream choice for hinge manufacturing, while liquid metal offers superior properties, making it ideal for components requiring repeated folding [6]. Market Dynamics - The global foldable hinge market is projected to exceed $900 million in 2024, with a growth rate of nearly 5% [7]. - The introduction of tri-fold smartphones increases the number of required hinges, suggesting further market expansion [7]. - The market is characterized by high technical barriers, dense patent layouts, and a trend towards consolidation among leading companies [7]. Regional Distribution - Hinge manufacturers are primarily located in China and South Korea, with the U.S. excelling in design but less involved in manufacturing [8]. - Chinese companies are increasingly competitive across the entire supply chain, from materials to design and manufacturing [8]. Cost Structure - Hinges represent a significant incremental cost in foldable smartphones, with individual costs ranging from 800 to 1200 yuan, influenced by material choices and manufacturing complexity [8]. - Reducing hinge costs is crucial for the broader adoption of foldable smartphones, with potential improvements through material substitution and process enhancements [8]. Challenges in the Industry - The industry faces challenges such as reliance on foreign high-end materials and increasing competition, necessitating ongoing R&D investment [9]. - However, advancements in MIM technology and liquid metal by Chinese firms are enhancing the self-sufficiency of the supply chain [9]. Market Forecast - The global foldable hinge module market is expected to reach $1.82 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% [10].

Core Viewpoint - Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. has recently published a patent for a display method, electronic device, and readable storage medium, which enhances user interface switching on multi-fold devices [1][2]. Group 1: Patent Details - The patent application, filed on January 10, 2024, describes a method that allows an electronic device to display multiple application interfaces across three display areas [1]. - The method enables users to switch between application interfaces with simple gestures, improving operational convenience [1]. Group 2: Product Launch - Huawei is set to release its first tri-fold smartphone, the "Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design," on September 10, 2024 [3]. - The device features a screen made from non-Newtonian fluid materials and includes a 5600mAh battery, which is the world's thinnest silicon negative electrode battery at just 1.9mm thick [3]. - The thickness of the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design when unfolded is only 3.6mm, with a width of up to 10.2 inches, and it incorporates the "Huawei Tian Gong Hinge System" [3]. - The smartphone supports 66W wired fast charging and 50W wireless fast charging, along with Lingxi communication and Tiantong satellite calling capabilities [3].

Industry Overview - The foldable screen market has seen significant improvements in various metrics after years of rapid development, but market demand appears to have reached a bottleneck [1] - Major manufacturers are still preparing new products, with OPPO showcasing the "thinnest large foldable" and vivo set to launch the "lightest large foldable" this month [1] - Huawei remains the leader in the Chinese foldable screen market, focusing on exploring new folding forms rather than just thinness, with plans to update its tri-fold product this year [1][2] Company Developments - Huawei's Mate XT, launched last September, has sold over 400,000 units by the end of April this year, despite a high starting price of 19,999 yuan [2] - The Mate XT features a 10.2-inch flexible LTPO OLED screen that can fold into two sizes: 7.9 inches when folded once and 6.4 inches when folded twice, along with a triple-camera setup [2] - Other manufacturers, such as Samsung and Infinix, are also working on tri-fold devices, with Samsung planning to produce its first tri-fold phone by Q2 2025 [4][6] Product Innovations - Honor is set to launch the Magic V5 this month, which aims to push the limits of thinness in large foldable devices, featuring advanced specifications and improved imaging capabilities [8] - The competition in the foldable screen market is intensifying, with various companies attempting to innovate beyond just making devices lighter and thinner [1][8]