Since bringing home the Huawei Mate XT from MWC 2025, Ive been on a fascinating adventure with this tri-fold device. This isnt another ordinary smartphoneits a glimpse into what mobile technology becomes when designers think beyond conventional boundaries.Designer: HuaweiThe Physical ExperienceThe Mate XT draws the eye with its intricate design details when you pick it up. At 298 grams, it has a substantial presence in handa reminder that youre holding something different. For context, thats about 77% heavier than the iPhone 16 Pro (168g) and significantly weightier than the Google Pixel 9 Pro (187g). The folded thickness of 12.8mm also distinguishes it from the ultra-thin devices weve grown accustomed to, with most premium smartphones measuring between 7-9mm.Whats impressive is how quickly this initial impression gives way to appreciation. The red vegan leather back provides an excellent grip that makes handling the device feel secure despite its weight. The textured surface creates just the right amount of friction against my palm, preventing any sense of precariousness during use.The hinges deserve special mention. They move with a deliberate, smooth resistance that inspires confidence. Each transformation between configurations feels engineered rather than merely assembled. The hinges hold their position at any angle, allowing for customized viewing positions that adapt to different situations and environments.Within days, what initially registered as heavy has transformed into what I now perceive as substantiala subtle but important shift in perspective that reflects how quickly we adapt to new physical experiences.Three Screens, Three PossibilitiesThe magic of the Mate XT lies in how it transforms between three distinct experiences.In its folded state, the phone has a tall, narrow 6.4-inch screen that works wonderfully for quick interactions. This display size matches many popular smartphones, like the Samsung Galaxy S23, creating a familiar experience for texting, calling, and checking notifications. This configuration remains perfect for on-the-go use when walking or standing.The middle configurationpartially unfolded to 7.9 incheshas become my go-to for many daily activities. This size sits between standard smartphones and small tablets like the iPad Mini (8.3 inches), striking a perfect balance for reading articles, browsing social media, and responding to emails. The text becomes more comfortable to read without the device becoming unwieldy. This book mode feels natural when relaxing on the couch or during my commute.Fully unfolded to 10.2 inches, the Mate XT transforms into something magical. This size rivals the standard iPad (10.9 inches) and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (11 inches), but with a key differencethe 16:9 aspect ratio creates a genuinely immersive tablet experience. Unlike the more square-ish aspect ratios of most tablets, this configuration is perfectly suited for media consumption. Netflix shows fill the screen beautifully without the letterboxing common on iPads. Web pages display their desktop layouts rather than their cramped mobile versions. Spreadsheets become actually usable rather than exercises in patience.Yes, there are creases where the screen foldsvisible particularly under direct light. But their visual presence fades remarkably quickly from conscious awareness. My focus naturally shifts to the content rather than the medium, with the creases becoming just another characteristic of the display rather than a distraction.The Best Device Is the One You Have With YouTheres a well-worn adage in photography: The best camera is the one you have with you. This simple truth acknowledges that technical superiority means nothing if a device is left at home when an opportunity arises. Ive come to believe this principle extends perfectly to computing devicesthe best tablet is the one you actually have when you need it.During a recent trip back from Barcelona, I noticed a passenger across from me struggling to watch a movie on his phone. As we talked, he shared his amazement at the Mate XTs transformative nature. He explained that he had left his tablet at home, realizing he didnt need to carry it for a long-haul trip. Meanwhile, I unfolded my Mate XT to its full 10.2-inch glory and enjoyed an immersive viewing experience on a device that had been in my pocket moments before.The value of the Mate XT isnt that its the best smartphone or tablet in isolationdedicated devices still hold advantages in their specialized categories. Its true value lies in being good enough at both roles while always being available. The tablet you left at home because it was too cumbersome to carry offers zero utility, while the folding device in your pocket transforms to meet the need at hand.This always available factor changes how I approach productivity and entertainment. I no longer plan device usage around anticipated needs (Should I bring my tablet today?) but instead respond to opportunities as they arise. A surprise 30-minute wait becomes a chance to review a document comfortably. A delayed flight becomes an opportunity to watch an episode of a show with proper screen real estate. This is 100% clear to me, especially when spending the day with my daughter at her tennis match, where having a flexible device makes all the difference.The Mate XT eliminates the opportunity cost of choosing which devices to carry. Its one of the best everyday carry devices, extending beyond the physical universe by adapting seamlessly to different needs. Like a multi-tool, it may not be as specialized as individual implements, but its remarkable versatility ensures its always present when needed.The Beginning of an Ongoing ExperienceUsing the Huawei Mate XT has changed how I think about mobile devices. Instead of switching between a phone and a tablet, Ive found myself relying on one device that adapts to whatever I need in the moment. The tri-fold design makes everything seamless, whether Im responding to messages, getting work done, or unwinding with a show.Once noticeable, its weight becomes part of the experience, reinforcing the sense that this is something differentsomething substantial. The creases fade into the background as the content takes center stage. The true value isnt found in any one configuration but in the seamless transition between them. Its about having the right tool in your pocket without compromise.The Mate XT doesnt demand that you choose between a phone and a tabletit simply adapts, ready for whatever the day brings.The post Huawei Mate XT: Embracing the Tri-Fold Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.