The Huawei Mate XT, while advanced and complex, is only slightly thicker than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold6. At a recent event, Samsung did not unveil the expected three new phones, indicating it’s focusing on a single model set for release in late 2025. In contrast, Chinese brands like Huawei and Xiaomi are rapidly expanding their foldable offerings, capitalizing on a growing market that sees foldable phones as desirable. Chinese consumers, noted for their sophisticated smartphone experience, actively seek innovative devices, which has led to a higher foldable smartphone penetration in China compared to Western markets.
Despite evident interest, Western consumers are less inclined to purchase foldables, leaving brands like Huawei thriving. Neil Shah from Counterpoint Research highlights that many Chinese consumers are on their fifth or sixth smartphone, making them more adventurous in their choices. Carl Pei from OnePlus has criticized the current tech landscape as “boring,” suggesting a loss of excitement around new technologies.
Chinese brands benefit from government support amid US sanctions, with Huawei previously receiving substantial state subsidies. This backing has helped Huawei maintain a strong position in the global market, contributing to its resilience and appeal among local consumers while other manufacturers remain cautious.
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