Huawei could be preparing significant design changes for its next-generation tri-fold smartphone. A newly surfaced patent, believed to be linked to the Huawei Mate XT 2, suggests the upcoming device may feature a revised folding mechanism and a different overall design compared with the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design. While Huawei has not officially confirmed the device, the patent offers an early look at what could be its next flagship foldable smartphone.
Patent
The leaked patent, shared by tipster Ice Universe on X, reportedly shows a redesigned tri-fold smartphone that is believed to be the Huawei Mate XT 2.
Although patent filings do not guarantee that a design will reach commercial production, they can provide insight into technologies a company is developing for future devices.
Design
One of the most notable changes shown in the patent is the folding mechanism.
Unlike the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design, which uses an outward-folding design, the new patent illustrates an inward-folding layout.
According to the patent images:
- Both side panels fold inward over the main flexible display.
- The left panel appears to fold first.
- The right panel folds over the left panel to complete the closing process.
The overall design is similar to concepts that have appeared for other upcoming tri-fold smartphones.
Display
The patent also suggests another important design update.
In addition to the large foldable inner display, the device appears to include a dedicated cover screen.
This would allow users to perform everyday tasks without unfolding the phone completely, offering greater convenience during daily use.
The current Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design does not feature a separate cover display in the same manner shown in the leaked patent.
Camera
The patent images reveal a redesigned rear camera module.
Instead of the Star Diamond camera design used on the current Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design, the new device appears to feature a centrally positioned circular camera module.
Huawei has not confirmed camera specifications, so the final production model may differ from the patent.
Rumours
The Huawei Mate XT 2 is expected to launch later this year, with reports pointing to an October 2026 announcement.
According to current rumours, the smartphone could include:
| Feature | Expected Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Kirin 9050 Pro |
| Battery | Around 6,000mAh |
| Launch Timeline | Expected October 2026 |
| Folding Design | New inward-folding mechanism |
Huawei has not officially confirmed these specifications.
Current Model
The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design, introduced in 2024, became the world’s first commercially available tri-fold smartphone.
Its key specifications include:
| Feature | Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Design |
|---|---|
| Processor | Kirin 9010 |
| Main Display | 10.2-inch unfolded display |
| Rear Camera | 50MP primary camera |
| Battery | 5,600mAh |
| Wired Charging | 66W |
| Wireless Charging | 50W |
| Starting Price | CNY 19,999 |
The device was launched in China with 16GB RAM and 256GB of storage.
Outlook
While the leaked patent points to a different folding approach, it remains unclear how closely the final Huawei Mate XT 2 will match the patented design. Smartphone manufacturers often register multiple concepts before selecting the version that reaches production.
If the reported changes are adopted, the Huawei Mate XT 2 could introduce a new inward-folding mechanism, a dedicated cover display and an updated camera layout while continuing Huawei’s development of tri-fold smartphone technology. More official details are expected if the company announces the device later this year.
FAQs
What design change does the patent show?
An inward-folding tri-fold design.
Will the Mate XT 2 have a cover display?
The leaked patent suggests it may.
Which chipset is expected?
It is rumoured to feature Kirin 9050 Pro.
When could the Mate XT 2 launch?
Reports suggest October 2026.
What battery capacity is expected?
Around 6,000mAh according to rumours.
