By Ewan MacLeod — Sep 12, 2024

Huawei's Mate XT: Yeah, I'd definitely have one, even at $2,800

I'd like to say a big thank you to YouTuber Sami Luo Tech who posted a really helpful hands-on unboxing video of the Huawei Mate XT I was gushing about the other day.

I sat and watched Sami's video earlier - and it was exciting to hear the delight in his voice. For example, when he discovered the magnetised closing of the folding screen.

As Sami put the device through his paces, I had to admire the speed of the screen and the responsiveness as he was opening, closing and folding.

It's deeply impressive watching it fully fold out to something akin to a standard iPad size. I'd almost suggest it's rather breathtaking – and I haven't seen one in the wild yet.

I would also suggest that the Mate XT is likely to be an incredibly desirable device, not only because of the wide array of possibilities... but simply because it's going to attract SO much attention.

And everyone will know it's an ultra premium device. I had initially written it was expected to retail at $2,400, but Reuters reported that's likely to be nearer $2,800.

I know quite a few CEOs and C-Level executives who are massive, massive Android fans. Huawei is incredibly popular in the Middle East, for example, where it's common to find a funky Apple-style Huawei store in every major shopping mall. I can imagine it will take about 2 seconds for my colleagues to make the buy decision.

For them, it will be a mix of utility, style and status that will justify the expense.

Yes, as The Verge points out, the Mate XT is more expensive than at a 16-inch MacBook Pro.

The Reuters post above carries some commentary from 'ordinary' Huawei users saying they won't be buying it and remarking that 'maybe this isn't aimed at me'.

Correct. It's a statement device.

My C-Level colleagues in the Gulf will love it. They'll love being able to open the Mate XT fully to show their friends or family a video or a photo.

They'll love to be able to quickly view documents 'properly'.

And I think they'll be quite happy to plonk the Mate XT on the table in front of them... it will look good. It will get a lot of attention.

Fascinating times.

Sam finishes his video overview by saying:

Phone design hasn't really changed for a really really long time and I'm so glad that Huawei takes us to another level with this tri-fold phone. I cannot wait to see what more fun features Huawei can offer in the future.

Well said Sam. Well said. Me too.

It's got me writing again here on Mobile Industry Review.

Here's the Chinese version of the Mate XT official page on Huawei.com.

Do take a look - use Chrome and you can get the translation. Although, I'm not sure you'll need it.