Huawei Mate XT Ultimate: A Revolutionary Tri-Fold Smartphone with Cutting-Edge Kirin 9010 Chipset
Sep, 12 2024
Introduction to the World's First Tri-Fold Smartphone
In an era where smartphone innovation often feels incremental, Huawei has broken the mold by launching the Mate XT Ultimate, a revolutionary tri-fold smartphone. Announced at a grand event in China, this device has piqued the interest of tech enthusiasts worldwide. The Mate XT Ultimate isn't just any foldable phone; it features a tri-fold design unlike any other on the market, representing a significant leap in mobile technology.
Inside the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate: Kirin 9010 Chipset
The Mate XT Ultimate runs on Huawei's newly developed Kirin 9010 chipset. While Huawei has been tight-lipped about the specifics, hands-on reports from the launch event have confirmed the technical marvel that powers this device. The Kirin 9010 is an 8-core CPU featuring a 2.3 GHz Taishan Big core, three 2.18 GHz Taishan Mid cores, and four 1.55 GHz Cortex-A510 cores. Alongside these is the Maleoon 910 MP4 GPU, enhancing the visual performance of the phone.
A noteworthy aspect of the Kirin 9010 is its manufacturing process. Developed by Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC), China's leading chipmaker, the chipset is built on a 7 nm process, locally referred to as N+2. This is quite similar to the Kirin 9000s used in Huawei's Mate 60 series. Despite the various restrictions faced by Chinese tech companies, the performance of the Kirin 9010 stacks up impressively against MediaTek's Dimensity 8200, highlighting the prowess of local Chinese manufacturers.
Pricing and Market Position
However, the Mate XT Ultimate's pricing might come as a shock to some. Starting at approximately $3,000, it performs similarly to smartphones priced around $300. This apparent imbalance might leave some potential buyers feeling hesitant. Despite this, for those who value cutting-edge technology and innovative design, the Mate XT Ultimate's unique features may well justify the price tag.
Design and Weight
When unfolded, the Mate XT Ultimate is astoundingly thin at 3.6 mm and weighs in at 298 grams, making it a lightweight option among foldable devices. Its design achieves a balance of elegance and functionality, with a large, flexible LTPO OLED screen that adjusts based on how the device is folded. The 120 Hz refresh rate and '3K' resolution of 3,184 x 2,232 pixels offer a visually stunning experience, supporting up to 10 billion colors for unparalleled display quality.
Advanced Camera System
The camera system of the Mate XT Ultimate also stands out. On the rear, it boasts a 50 MP primary sensor complete with PDAF and OIS, ensuring sharp and stable photos. Accompanying this are a 12 MP telephoto lens with 5.5x optical zoom, a 12 MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a laser autofocus module. This makes it suitable for a range of photography needs, from detailed close-ups to expansive landscape shots.
Software and AI Features
On the software side, the Mate XT Ultimate runs on HarmonyOS 4.2, built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) but notably devoid of Google services. This system includes 16 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance across various tasks. The device also incorporates an upgraded Xiaoyi voice assistant, internationally known as Celia, which includes advanced AI functions like voice-to-text conversion, automatic split-screen, real-time document translation, and photo retouching.
Batteries and Charging
One of the major technical highlights is its battery. The Mate XT Ultimate employs three silicone-carbide composite cells with a combined capacity of 5,600 mAh. This robust battery setup supports 66W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and even reverse wireless and wired charging, ensuring that the device can keep up with the most demanding of users.
Variants and Availability
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate comes in two striking color options: Black and Red, both featuring elegant gold accents. The device is available in three storage variants: 256 GB priced at CNY 19,999 (around $2,800/€2,550), 512 GB at CNY 21,999 (approximately $3,100/€2,800), and a 1 TB model priced at CNY 23,999 (about $3,400/€3,100). Due to its niche market appeal and various regulatory challenges, it is unlikely that the Mate XT Ultimate will see a release outside of China.
Conclusion
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate sets a new benchmark for smartphone design and functionality with its tri-fold display and top-tier internals. While its steep price may be a hurdle for some, the technological advancements it brings to the table are undeniably impressive. As Huawei continues to navigate constraints and challenges in the global market, innovations like the Mate XT Ultimate may pave the way for future breakthroughs.