Xiaomi and Huawei launch foldables to counter Apple's rumored iPhone

Chinese tech giants Xiaomi and Huawei launched new foldable phones this week, aiming to preempt Apple's rumored first foldable iPhone, expected at its Wednesday event. The launches are seen as a strategic move to compete for market share. Xiaomi unveiled the 18 Fold on Monday, a passport-sized device similar to Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold8, while Huawei introduced the Mate XT2, the third generation of its trifold smartphone. Analysts note significant pent-up demand for a foldable iPhone, with Counterpoint Research projecting Apple could ship 6 million units this year, capturing 25% of the global market. The foldable market is growing despite high prices, with Samsung as Apple's main global rival. In China, Huawei dominates with over two-thirds of the foldable market. Industry experts suggest these launches are deliberate, ensuring consumers can compare products when Apple's device hits stores.