After a whirlwind 24 hours with Huawei's groundbreaking Mate XT—the world’s first trifold smartphone—I can confidently say that the novelty has not faded!

Having previously tested the Mate XT shortly after its September launch and again in February for its global release, I finally have the chance for a full review. But brace yourselves, this innovative device will set you back nearly $4,000!

Over the next week, I’ll be diving deep into the experience of living with this stunning phone, equipped with a SIM card and ready to explore its stunning triple display. Here’s what I’ve discovered so far.

A Transformative User Experience!

The Mate XT offers three distinct ways to use it: as a typical phone with a 6.4-inch screen, a square 7.9-inch variant, or fully expanded into a massive 10.2-inch tablet. The versatility is truly impressive!

Admittedly, opening it isn’t quite intuitive at first. Each segment unfolds differently, and I spent quite a bit of time nervous about potentially breaking something. But once the mechanics clicked, I found the process satisfying—though it definitely requires two hands!

Design Meets Durability!

When closed, the three segments magnetically attach, delivering a surprisingly sturdy feel. However, I wouldn’t trust it to withstand being sat on or getting scratched, especially with part of the display always exposed.

Thicker and heavier than typical phones, it’s surprisingly comfortable to hold. And it’s lighter than most 10-inch tablets, so perspective is key.

The Software Dilemma!

On the software front, the Mate XT lacks support for Google Mobile Services, which means no Play Store or Google apps without some extra work. Thankfully, sideloading processes have become easier—you can establish a regular Android experience, albeit with a little hassle!

Using tools like Aurora Store and microG, I managed to get most Android apps up and running, except Google Wallet. While I’ll miss using NFC payments, everything else was seamless.

A Glimpse Into the Future!

That said, there's uncertainty about how long this setup will remain functional or receive updates, especially since the Mate XT is currently running on HarmonyOS 4.2 with a hint of Android. With Huawei moving towards HarmonyOS Next—which may drop Android app compatibility altogether—this could shift dramatically!

App Optimization and Multitasking!

Not all applications utilize the expansive display effectively. It’s perfect for streaming—yet some, like Instagram, seem lost in all the extra space.

Multitasking also has its limitations; split-screen mode allows only two apps at once. If you want a third, you’ll have to compromise with a Floating Window that can clutter the workspace.

Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

In just 24 hours, the Mate XT feels like a marvel of engineering and design. But, is it worth dropping four grand? That’s the question I aim to answer after my week-long encounter with this innovative device!