What to Expect from Huawei's September 4th Launch： A Cheaper Tri-Fold, a New Mini-Tablet, and More
Huawei Technologies is set to launch a new generation of its high-end tri-fold smartphone and its first-ever mini-tablet on Thursday, signaling a strategic push to expand its premium device portfolio and challenge competitors with new form factors and potentially more aggressive pricing.
The centerpiece of the September 4 event is expected to be the Huawei Mate XTs Ultimate Design, a successor to its unique tri-fold device. Crucially, industry leaks suggest a potential starting price of around 15,000 yuan (about $2,070), a notable decrease from the 19,999 yuan price tag of its predecessor, a move that could significantly broaden its market appeal.
The company will also enter the compact tablet segment with the MatePad Mini, an 8.8-inch device aimed at portability and performance. The dual launch underscores Huawei's strategy to build out its hardware ecosystem and compete in both established premium and high-growth product categories.
The product launch, themed "Ultimate Design and All-Scenario," will also feature other connected devices, including a new smart TV and wireless earbuds. The event marks an early start to the autumn flagship release season for major global technology manufacturers.
A More Accessible Foldable
The upcoming Mate XTs is an update to a model first released in September of last year, which stood out for its unique tri-fold screen design in a market with few direct competitors. The new 2025 version is expected to feature upgrades to performance, hardware specifications, and overall functionality.
According to pre-release information, the device will be available in a new white color, alongside black, red, and purple options, while maintaining a similar design language to the previous generation and adding support for a stylus. Leaked specifications suggest the phone will be powered by a Kirin 9020 processor and feature a 50-megapixel main camera with a variable aperture and a periscope telephoto lens. It is also expected to support Tiantong satellite communications, 5G-eMBB technology, and potentially an eSIM, running on the company's proprietary HarmonyOS.
Entering the Mini-Tablet Arena
Huawei is also poised to introduce its first small-sized tablet, the MatePad Mini, which has generated significant attention ahead of the launch. The product is positioned to deliver high performance in a compact and portable form factor, designed for a comfortable single-hand grip.
Based on specifications leaked by industry bloggers, the device will feature an 8.8-inch OLED display with a 2560x1600 resolution and ultra-thin 2.99mm bezels. It is reported to be just 5.1mm thick and weigh 255 grams. An earpiece opening and system-wide support for a SIM card indicate the tablet will be capable of making and receiving phone calls. The device is said to contain a 6,400mAh battery and be powered by a Kirin 9010 chip, according to third-party software analysis.
Expanding the Smart Ecosystem
In addition to the two flagship mobile devices, Huawei will use the event to showcase a range of other products that integrate into its "all-scenario" smart ecosystem strategy. These include the new Huawei Smart Screen MateTV and the Huawei FreeBuds 7i wireless earbuds.
However, another anticipated product, the Huawei FreeClip 2 ear-cuff style headphones, is not expected to be unveiled at this event. Reports suggest it will be launched at a separate event later in September.