The foldable phone market has been going from strength to strength for years, and while it may seem like manufacturers are slowly starting to get in on the action, some may still be working on new form factors behind the scenes.
The recent Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 didn’t bring much new to the table, focusing on improving the flaws of their predecessors.
The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra, while bringing vast improvements to its camera and battery life over the previous generation, also retains a familiar design.
The same goes for other manufacturers, who either opt for a modern flip phone or a book-style device. However, the latest rumors indicate that Huawei will be the one to break the mold.
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
According to Chinese website Securities Daily, the Chinese company has been working on a “three-pronged” smartphone that could take the shape of a Z for five years. The phone was also mentioned by Huawei’s executive director Yu Chengdong in a recent interview.
Moreover, the brand might even intend to mass produce it by the end of 2024.
The Register claims that a patent granted to Huawei in March this year suggests the device will feature a dual-hinge system, allowing the screen to fold in either direction.
Although it’s called a “tri-fold,” it features two flaps and three separate displays, which unfold to reveal a 10-inch screen. Additionally, the phone is expected to include a rear-facing camera and use lightweight glass to minimize weight and bulk.
Korean industry sources suggest that Chinese display maker BOE will supply the screens. The device will likely also run HarmonyOS, Huawei’s Android alternative.
The company’s Kirin 9100 processor is expected to be under the hood, with a potential price tag of around ¥15,000 ($2,065).
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
Hannah Cowton / Foundry
As Huawei appears to be gearing up to launch this radical device, many competitors will be watching with interest. If successful, it could become the next big foldable, reaffirming Huawei’s position as a key technology innovator.
However, time will tell whether consumers actually want such a device. In the meantime, our guide to the best foldable phones includes both clamshell devices and book-style foldable models.
