Xiaomi Preparing for Tri-Fold Smartphone Invasion with Two Models in Development
As Huawei takes its first step into the world of tri-fold smartphones with the Mate XT Ultimate Design, the smartphone industry can expect its biggest competitor, Xiaomi, to follow suit. Recently, a report emerged hinting at the launch of Xiaomi’s own tri-fold smartphones, and now, new details have come to light. It appears that the Chinese tech giant is gearing up to release not one, but two tri-fold smartphones in the coming years.
The first tri-fold smartphone from Xiaomi, known as ‘zhuque’ or "zookeeper" in Chinese mythology, is set to debut in March 2025, with a button-less design and features such as satellite communication and an under-display selfie camera. The phone will also mark the end of the traditional button-based design for Xiaomi.
Leaked renders and schematics of the device, which were leaked by SmartPrix, provide a sneak peek at the futuristic smartphone. This phone, designated as ‘2503FVPB1C,’ will be the company’s first tri-fold smartphone.
However, it seems that Xiaomi’s plan doesn’t stop at just one model. According to a publication, the company is planning to launch a second tri-fold smartphone in 2026. The new phone, carrying the model number ‘26013VP46C,’ is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2026, or more specifically in January.
What’s fascinating is that the launch of the second tri-fold model is heavily dependent on the success of the first model. If the initial phone doesn’t receive the desired response from the market, the second model may be put on hold indefinitely. This adds a new layer of strategy to the story, highlighting the importance of market demand in shaping future product launches.
It is worth noting that both of these devices are China-exclusive models, with the first one scheduled to launch only in China. However, the release of the 2026 model is unclear, but it could also be China-exclusive based on the model number and publication.
With these new details emerging, it seems clear that Xiaomi is eager to join the tri-fold smartphone fray. While Huawei took the first step, it’s time for the Asian giant to show off its own design and engineering prowess. Only time will tell how the market reacts to these new devices and which one will reign supreme.
Source: Xiaomi’s upcoming tri-fold smartphones might be in the works!
