Huawei has officially announced that it will launch the world’s first tri-fold smartphone on September 10, 2024. This innovative device will be introduced shortly after the International Consumer Electronics Show (IFA) in Berlin and a day after the launch of the iPhone 16 series. 

The press event is scheduled to start at 2:30 PM local time in China, which is 8:30 AM CET, 7:30 AM BST, 2:30 AM EST and 11:30 PM PST the previous day. The event will be conducted in Chinese and will be hosted in Huawei’s home market.

Huawei’s Innovative Tri-Fold Design  

Huawei’s new smartphone aims to revolutionize the foldable phone market with its ‘tri-fold’ design. Unlike traditional book-style foldables that only offer limited screen space when folded, this device features two hinges, allowing it to fold three times. This creates a big tablet-sized screen that can shrink down to fit in your pocket. 

Huawei’s Tri-Fold Features Unveiled 

According to reports, the phone will have a 10-inch display when fully opened, which is a big upgrade from the smaller screens seen in previous foldable models. 

The tri-fold design aims to overcome the drawbacks of the existing foldables by providing a larger screen area without compromising portability. This design innovation has been the subject of various concepts over the years, but Huawei will be the first to launch such an innovative device to market. 

What’s Unique About Huawei’s New Device? 

Early insights suggest that Huawei’s tri-fold smartphone will be powered by the Kirin 9 series chipset. It is anticipated to have a sleek design with a large circular camera module and a thin body. The phone will likely incorporate several AI features and advanced functions, enhancing its usability and performance. 

The phone’s design will have two inward-facing screens and one outward-facing screen, all connected via a dual-hinge system. This design aims to provide users a flexible and engaging experience whether the device is folded or unfolded. 

Huawei Tri-Fold’s Market Availability and Challenges Facing 

Despite the excitement surrounding its launch, Huawei’s tri-fold smartphone might face challenges in terms of market availability. Some reports indicate that the device will initially be released only in China with the limited number of units produced. The high price of this advanced technology is expected to restrict its reach to a wider audience outside of China. 

Additionally, the device may be launched without access to Google Android apps due to ongoing trade restrictions. 

Huawei is moving to its own HarmonyOS, which might impact the device’s appeal to global consumers who rely on Google’s apps. 

Huawei’s Competition with Major Companies 

Huawei’s tri-fold smartphone will increase competition in the foldable phone market. The launch date aligns with the iPhone 16 series announcement. While Huawei’s tri-fold represents a big technological step, Apple is also making progress in the foldables, with rumors that a clamshell-style foldable device may launch in early 2026. 

Besides Huawei and Apple, other major companies like Samsung and OPPO have been working on developing their own tri-fold technology. However, Huawei’s early start in the market could provide it with a temporary advantage.