Xiaomi Unveils the 18 Fold: A Wide Foldable Challenging Apple's iPhone Ultra

Xiaomi has teased its new wide foldable smartphone, the Xiaomi 18 Fold, at the ongoing IFA trade show. The device resembles Apple’s rumored iPhone Ultra, featuring rounded corners and a horizontal camera bar. It’s the first flagship phone powered by Xiaomi’s XRING O3 chipset.

First Look and Initial Impressions

The Xiaomi 18 Fold has garnered attention for its design similarities to the iPhone Ultra, with reports suggesting a minimal crease on the display during initial observations. Our own Preslav Kataliev noted the resemblance to renders and dummy units circulating.

Launch Details and Market Strategy

Xiaomi plans to reveal more details on September 7th, with a launch in China just two days before Apple’s expected announcement. Given China’s status as the second-largest iPhone market, Xiaomi’s move positions it to potentially gain a competitive advantage.

Key Features and Specifications

The device boasts a triple-camera system and is expected to be priced below $2,000, contrasting with the anticipated high cost of the iPhone Ultra. Furthermore, the XRING O3 chipset is promising improved efficiency and on-device AI capabilities, surpassing current flagship performance benchmarks.

Comparison to iPhone Ultra

The Xiaomi 18 Fold’s design and potential pricing are generating buzz, particularly as it challenges Apple’s upcoming iPhone Ultra. The device is a testament to the growing popularity of the passport-style foldable form factor.