I didn’t expect to find the Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design foldable laptop on the floor at BEYOND Expo, and it wasn’t officially displayed at Huawei’s booth. But I did see a nervous intern walking around with a strange-looking laptop behind the scenes. I walked up to ask her if it was Huawei’s new ‘foldable laptop’ and lo and behold, I got a hands-on experience of a device hardly anybody’s seen before… and spoilers, it’s gorgeous. The MateBook Fold Ultimate Design is the kind of stuff you expect from companies like Apple and Google, but it really does seem like Huawei’s been pushing the envelope farther than any ‘Western’ brands. They mastered 5G before anyone, developed their own app ecosystem after being booted off Android, brought the Mate XT tri-fold device to market long before Samsung, and now managed to design, launch, and even display a foldable laptop long before anyone else could even get their R&D together. Designer: Huawei The MateBook Fold Ultimate Design (let’s just call it the MateBook Fold for short) is a bona fide luxury device. It costs a mind-bending $3,300 USD and is only available in China for now. That’s because it’s running Huawei’s HarmonyOS, which works best within the mainland. However, physically, the laptop looks GORGEOUS. At 14.9mm, it’s slightly thicker than the 128mm-thick tri-fold phone when shut (because it technically also has 3 panels), but open it up and you’re either faced with a 13″ laptop with a touchscreen keyboard, or an 18″ touchscreen monitor when opened fully (thanks to a kickstand at the back). The third panel? Well, that’s just the MateBook Fold’s snap-on keyboard, which works wirelessly with the device, allowing you to use it either independently or even placed on top of the MateBook, replacing the touchscreen keyboard with a tactile one. News flash, everything works absolutely seamlessly – you don’t need to pair or unpair keyboards, the screen transitions like magic between multiple formats, and the device, even though it released just 3 days ago, doesn’t have any rough edges that I can see. It’s all polished to the point of being a product you could throw 3.3 grand at today itself. So, here’s really what you get with the MateBook Fold. The three-part device (a two-part foldable and one snap-on keyboard) is as light as it gets – 2.5 lb (1.16 kg) officially, which is still lighter than a 13″ MacBook Pro. The keyboard sticks confidently via magnets, only snapping out when you remove it with intent. Even the hinge on the MateBook Fold – reliable, without a doubt. I needed two hands to pry the thing open, and once you disengage the device, the hinge loosens so that the lid lifts up comfortably. The MateBook Fold’s design enables hybrid-laptop-style usage, but with a key difference being the foldable display itsel. You can use it in the following formats – open it up and type on the lower touchscreen like a regular laptop (you can change the keyboard design, layout, color, it’s wild). My favorite part is the fact that when you activate the on-screen keyboard, the Huawei branding actually shows up near the hinge, displaying the company logo where you’d expect it to be on most traditional laptops. You might think of it as an easter egg, but I see it more as incredible attention to detail. The other way to type is to simply snap out the actual physical keyboard and use it to type (either on top of the laptop or kept on the side). However, if that 13″ screen isn’t enough for you, the MateBook Fold opens up to become a flat 18″ 3.3K display with a more tablet-ish 4:3 resolution. Hold and use the device like you would an 18″ tablet, place it flat on a tabletop, or prop it upwards, thanks to the built-in kickstand that otherwise sits flush against the back. There’s not a single bump anywhere on the device – the absence of a primary camera rids the MateBook Fold of its camera bump, so you’re left with a device that’s as gorgeously sleek as a laptop. The OS, for now, is Huawei’s HarmonyOS, running a tablet-PC hybrid layout. You have apps on the desktop, like TikTok, Xiaohongshu (or Red Note), WPS Office, among other local apps. Huawei’s even built a Copilot clone that runs on the device thanks to a dedicated AI key. The company’s worked with Deepseek AI to integrate its chatbot into the MateBook Fold, giving you what I can only describe as an experience that’s absolutely tailormade to and with China-based innovation. For a company scorned by the US and several other countries, this is nothing short of remarkable. I don’t say it to artificially glorify the company or the circumstances it finds itself in, but hey, it’s been half a year since the tri-fold and not one company. The rest of the info on the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design can obviously be found in any press release. The device packs 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage – overkill by tablet or laptop standards. A fingerprint reader comes built into the power button, and yes, even though there isn’t a primary camera, the bezel hides a webcam that can be used the way you would on a laptop. It’s difficult to really say who this foldable laptop is for. It oozes so much style that I find myself only being able to recommend it to people who like flexing expensive gear, like a Rolex or a Lamborghini. At $3,300 USD, it’s definitely in that territory. For people who splurged on the tri-fold Mate XT, this might just be the best laptop to complement it. After all, integration should be absolutely seamless, given that they both run the same OS too.The post Huawei’s Foldable Laptop Is A Game-Changer And We Tried It Out: Hands-On at BEYOND Expo 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Why revisit the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold in 2025? The answer lies in the rapid evolution of foldable computing. When Lenovo introduced its second-generation foldable PC last year, it represented the pinnacle of what was possible in this emerging category. The device combined a versatile 16.3-inch OLED display with robust engineering and the familiar Windows ecosystem. It set benchmarks for build quality, display technology, and adaptability that competitors would need to surpass. Designer: Lenovo Designer: Huawei Fast forward to today, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Huawei has unveiled its MateBook Fold Ultimate Design, a device that challenges our understanding of what foldable laptops can achieve. With an 18-inch display that folds to a 13-inch form factor, a chassis measuring just 7.3mm when open, and a proprietary operating system built specifically for foldable hardware, Huawei has raised the stakes considerably. This comparison arrives at a pivotal moment for foldable computing. The category has matured beyond proof-of-concept to deliver genuinely useful productivity tools. Now that we have seen what Lenovo accomplished with the X1 Fold 2024, let us examine how Huawei’s MateBook Fold Ultimate Design responds and potentially redefines the future of portable computing. Design Philosophy and Physical Presence The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 2024 embodies the ThinkPad ethos of reliability and purposeful design. Its magnesium alloy frame and recycled PET woven fabric cover create a device that feels substantial and durable. The fold-flat hinge eliminates gaps when closed, protecting the display while maintaining a clean profile. At 8.6mm when open and 17.4mm when closed, the X1 Fold is not the thinnest laptop available, but its construction inspires confidence. The device weighs approximately 2.9 pounds without accessories, increasing to 4.3 pounds with the keyboard and stand attached. This weight reflects Lenovo’s prioritization of durability over absolute portability. Huawei takes a dramatically different approach with the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design. The device measures an astonishing 7.3mm when open and 14.9mm when closed, making it significantly thinner than the X1 Fold. At just 1.16kg (2.56 pounds) for the base unit and 1.45kg with the keyboard, the MateBook Fold is remarkably light for a device with an 18-inch display. This achievement comes from Huawei’s use of carbon fiber reinforcement and a zirconium-based liquid metal hinge. The 285mm “water-drop” hinge design provides smooth folding action and increased durability, with Huawei claiming a 400% improvement in hovering torque compared to conventional designs. The most significant physical difference between these devices becomes apparent in their approach to accessories. Lenovo requires a separate kickstand for desk use, adding bulk and complexity to the overall package. Huawei integrates a sturdy kickstand directly into the MateBook Fold, eliminating the need for additional accessories and streamlining the user experience. This built-in solution allows for more versatile positioning and reduces the number of components users need to manage. Both devices transform between multiple modes, but their physical dimensions create distinct experiences. When folded, the X1 Fold becomes a 12-inch laptop, which many users find cramped for serious multitasking. The MateBook Fold offers a more generous 13-inch workspace in laptop mode, providing additional screen real estate for productivity tasks. This difference may seem small on paper, but it significantly impacts the practical usability of these devices in their folded configurations. The materials chosen for each device reveal different priorities. Lenovo emphasizes sustainability with its recycled PET fabric cover and plastic-free packaging. This approach aligns with growing corporate environmental concerns and provides a tactile warmth that distinguishes the X1 Fold from typical metal-clad laptops. Huawei focuses on premium materials that enable extreme thinness, using advanced alloys and composites throughout the chassis. Both approaches result in distinctive aesthetics that will appeal to different user preferences. Display Technology and Visual Experience Display technology represents the heart of any foldable device, and both manufacturers have made significant investments in this critical component. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold features a 16.3-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 2560 x 2024 and a 4:3 aspect ratio. This display delivers 400 nits of brightness for standard content, increasing to 600 nits for HDR material. The panel supports DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification and Dolby Vision, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. An anti-smudge coating helps maintain visual clarity during extended use. Huawei pushes display technology further with the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design. Its 18-inch LTPO OLED screen boasts a resolution of 3296 x 2472, maintaining the same 4:3 aspect ratio as the Lenovo. However, the MateBook Fold achieves a peak brightness of 1600 nits, more than double that of the X1 Fold. The dual-layer LTPO technology reduces power consumption by 30% compared to standard OLED panels while supporting adaptive refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz. This combination of size, brightness, and efficiency creates a visual experience that surpasses the X1 Fold in nearly every measurable aspect. Both displays exhibit a visible crease at the fold, though the severity varies. Lenovo’s hinge design minimizes the crease when the device is fully open, but it becomes more noticeable at certain viewing angles. Huawei claims its water-drop hinge reduces crease visibility, though independent verification is limited. In practical use, both creases become less distracting over time as users adapt to the form factor. Color accuracy and visual impact favor the MateBook Fold, with its higher brightness and contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1 creating more vibrant images and videos. The X1 Fold delivers excellent color reproduction but cannot match the visual punch of Huawei’s display. For creative professionals and media consumers, this difference could be decisive when choosing between these devices. The touch response and pen input capabilities of both displays deserve consideration. Lenovo’s display works seamlessly with the Precision Pen, offering pressure sensitivity that makes note-taking and sketching feel natural. The anti-smudge coating balances fingerprint resistance with smooth touch response. Huawei provides similar functionality, though detailed specifications about pressure sensitivity levels and palm rejection capabilities are not yet widely available. Both devices support multi-touch gestures for navigation and manipulation of on-screen elements. The 4:3 aspect ratio on both devices proves ideal for productivity applications, providing more vertical space than typical 16:9 laptop displays. This ratio works particularly well for document editing, web browsing, and coding. When watching widescreen video content, both devices display black bars at the top and bottom, but the overall screen size still delivers an immersive viewing experience, especially on the larger MateBook Fold. Performance and Hardware Capabilities The performance profiles of these devices reflect their different design philosophies. Lenovo equips the ThinkPad X1 Fold with 12th Generation Intel processors, ranging from the Core i5-1230U to the Core i7-1260U vPro. These 10-core, 12-thread chips provide adequate performance for productivity tasks but represent previous-generation technology in 2025. The X1 Fold supports up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics handle visual processing, delivering sufficient power for office applications but struggling with demanding creative workloads. Huawei takes a different approach with its Kirin X90 ARM-based chipset. This custom silicon is specifically optimized for HarmonyOS and the foldable form factor. The MateBook Fold includes 32GB of RAM and offers storage options up to 2TB. While direct performance comparisons are difficult due to the different architectures, the Kirin X90 delivers responsive performance for HarmonyOS applications and benefits from tight hardware-software integration. Thermal management represents another point of divergence. Lenovo employs a fanless design in the X1 Fold, prioritizing silent operation over sustained performance. This approach leads to thermal throttling during extended workloads, limiting the device’s capabilities for processor-intensive tasks. Huawei incorporates a vapor chamber cooling system with diamond aluminum dual fans in the MateBook Fold, enabling 28W sustained performance without excessive heat or noise. This advanced cooling solution allows the MateBook Fold to maintain peak performance during demanding tasks, despite its thinner profile. Battery life reflects both hardware choices and software optimization. The X1 Fold includes a dual-battery design totaling 64Wh, delivering approximately 8 hours and 51 minutes in laptop mode and 7 hours and 27 minutes in tablet mode under real-world conditions. The MateBook Fold features a larger 74.69Wh battery, and its LTPO display technology reduces power consumption significantly. While independent verification of Huawei’s “all-day” battery claims is not yet available, the combination of a larger battery and more efficient display technology suggests the MateBook Fold should offer superior battery life in comparable usage scenarios. The storage subsystems in both devices utilize high-speed solid-state technology, but with different implementations. Lenovo’s PCIe Gen 4 SSD delivers sequential read speeds up to 5,000MB/s, providing quick access to large files and rapid application loading. Huawei has not published detailed storage performance metrics, but contemporary flagship devices typically feature similar high-performance storage solutions. Both devices offer sufficient storage capacity for professional workloads, with options ranging from 256GB to 2TB depending on configuration. Memory configurations play a crucial role in multitasking performance. Both devices offer 32GB in their top configurations, which provides ample headroom for demanding productivity workflows. Neither device allows for user-upgradable memory, as both use soldered RAM to maintain their slim profiles. This limitation means buyers must carefully consider their memory needs at purchase, as future upgrades are not possible. Operating Systems and Software Experience The most fundamental difference between these devices lies in their operating systems. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold runs Windows 11 Pro, providing access to the vast Windows software ecosystem and familiar productivity tools. Windows offers broad compatibility with business applications and enterprise management systems, making the X1 Fold a natural choice for corporate environments. However, Windows 11 still struggles with optimization for foldable form factors. Mode switching can be inconsistent, and the operating system sometimes fails to properly scale applications when transitioning between configurations. Huawei’s MateBook Fold runs HarmonyOS 5, a proprietary operating system designed specifically for the company’s ecosystem of devices. HarmonyOS offers several advantages for foldable hardware, including faster boot times, more efficient resource management, and seamless integration with other Huawei products. The operating system includes AI-powered features like document summarization, real-time translation, and context-aware suggestions through the Xiaoyi assistant. HarmonyOS also enables advanced multi-device collaboration, allowing users to transfer running apps between Huawei phones, tablets, and the MateBook Fold without interruption. The software ecosystem represents a significant consideration for potential buyers. Windows provides access to millions of applications, including industry-standard productivity, creative, and development tools. HarmonyOS currently offers over 1,000 optimized applications, with projections for 2,000+ by the end of 2025. While this number is growing rapidly, it remains a fraction of what Windows provides. Additionally, HarmonyOS and its app ecosystem are primarily focused on the Chinese market, limiting its appeal for international users. Security features differ between the platforms as well. Lenovo includes its ThinkShield security suite, Windows Hello facial recognition, and optional Computer Vision human-presence detection for privacy and security. Huawei implements its StarShield architecture, which provides security at the kernel level and throughout the operating system stack. Both approaches offer robust protection, but organizations with established Windows security protocols may prefer Lenovo’s more familiar implementation. The multitasking capabilities of each operating system deserve special attention for foldable devices. Windows 11 includes Snap Layouts and multiple virtual desktops, which work well on the X1 Fold’s large unfolded display. However, the interface can become cluttered in laptop mode due to the reduced screen size. HarmonyOS 5 features a multitasking system specifically designed for foldable displays, with intuitive gestures for splitting the screen, floating windows, and quick app switching. This optimization creates a more cohesive experience when transitioning between different device configurations. Software updates and long-term support policies differ significantly between these platforms. Windows 11 receives regular security updates and feature enhancements from Microsoft, with a well-established support lifecycle. HarmonyOS is newer, with less predictable update patterns, though Huawei has committed to regular improvements. For business users planning multi-year deployments, Windows offers more certainty regarding future compatibility and security maintenance. Keyboard, Input, and Accessory Integration The keyboard experience significantly impacts productivity on foldable devices, and both manufacturers take different approaches to this challenge. Lenovo offers the ThinkPad Bluetooth TrackPoint Keyboard Folio as an optional accessory. This keyboard maintains the classic ThinkPad feel with good key travel and includes the iconic red TrackPoint nub. However, the keyboard feels cramped compared to standard ThinkPad models, and the haptic touchpad is smaller than ideal for extended use. The keyboard attaches magnetically to the lower half of the folded display but adds 1.38 pounds to the overall weight. Huawei includes a 5mm wireless aluminum keyboard with the MateBook Fold. This ultra-thin keyboard offers 1.5mm of key travel and a responsive touchpad. Weighing just 0.64 pounds, it adds minimal bulk to the package while providing a comfortable typing experience. The keyboard connects wirelessly and can be positioned flexibly, allowing users to create a more ergonomic workspace than the fixed position of Lenovo’s solution. Stylus support is available on both devices, with Lenovo offering the Precision Pen for note-taking and drawing. The X1 Fold’s pen attaches magnetically to the display, ensuring it remains available when needed. Huawei provides similar stylus functionality, though detailed specifications for its pen accessory are limited in current documentation. The most significant accessory difference is the kickstand implementation. Lenovo requires a separate adjustable-angle kickstand for desk use, adding another component to manage and transport. Huawei integrates the kickstand directly into the MateBook Fold, providing immediate stability without additional accessories. This integrated approach streamlines the user experience and reduces setup time when transitioning between usage modes. Virtual keyboard implementations provide another input option when physical keyboards are impractical. Both devices can display touch keyboards on the lower portion of the folded screen, creating a laptop-like experience without additional hardware. Lenovo’s implementation relies on Windows 11’s touch keyboard, which offers reasonable accuracy but lacks haptic feedback. Huawei’s virtual keyboard is deeply integrated with HarmonyOS, providing customizable layouts and adaptive suggestions based on user behavior. Neither virtual keyboard fully replaces a physical keyboard for extended typing sessions, but both provide convenient input options for quick tasks. The accessory ecosystem extends beyond keyboards and styluses. Lenovo leverages the ThinkPad’s business heritage with a range of compatible docks, cases, and adapters designed for professional use. Huawei focuses on cross-device accessories that work across its product line, creating a cohesive ecosystem for users invested in multiple Huawei products. This difference reflects the broader positioning of each brand, with Lenovo targeting enterprise customers and Huawei pursuing ecosystem-driven consumer experiences. Connectivity and Expansion Options Connectivity options reflect the different priorities of these manufacturers. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, providing versatile connectivity for peripherals and external displays. The device supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, with optional LTE/5G connectivity for truly mobile productivity. This cellular option represents a significant advantage for professionals who need reliable internet access regardless of Wi-Fi availability. The Huawei MateBook Fold offers two USB-C ports, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. The device does not include cellular connectivity options, limiting its independence from Wi-Fi networks. The reduced port selection compared to the X1 Fold may require additional adapters for users with multiple peripherals or specialized equipment. Audio capabilities favor the MateBook Fold, which includes six speakers compared to the X1 Fold’s three. Both devices feature four-array microphones for clear voice capture during video conferences. Camera quality is superior on the MateBook Fold, with an 8MP sensor versus the 5MP camera on the X1 Fold. These differences impact the multimedia experience, particularly for users who frequently participate in video calls or consume media content. External display support varies between the devices. Lenovo’s Thunderbolt 4 ports enable connection to multiple high-resolution monitors, supporting sophisticated desktop setups when needed. Huawei’s USB-C ports provide display output capabilities, but with potentially fewer options for multi-monitor configurations. For professionals who regularly connect to external displays, projectors, or specialized peripherals, these connectivity differences could significantly impact workflow efficiency. Wireless connectivity standards influence performance in different environments. The X1 Fold’s Wi-Fi 6E support provides access to the less congested 6GHz band, potentially delivering faster and more reliable connections in crowded wireless environments. The MateBook Fold’s Wi-Fi 6 implementation is still capable but lacks access to these additional frequency bands. For users in dense office environments or congested urban areas, this difference could affect day-to-day connectivity performance. Future expansion capabilities depend largely on the port selection and standards support. Thunderbolt 4 provides the X1 Fold with a forward-looking connectivity standard that supports a wide range of current and upcoming peripherals. The MateBook Fold’s standard USB-C implementation offers good compatibility but lacks some of the advanced features and bandwidth of Thunderbolt. This distinction may become more relevant as users add peripherals and accessories over the device’s lifespan. Price, Availability, and Value Proposition The value equation for these devices involves balancing innovation, performance, and accessibility. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold starts at $2,499 for the base configuration with a Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. Fully equipped models with Core i7 processors, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage approach $3,900. These prices typically do not include the keyboard and kickstand accessories, which add approximately $250-300 to the total cost. The Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design is priced between CNY 24,000 and 27,000 (approximately $3,300 to $3,700) depending on configuration. This pricing includes the wireless keyboard, making the total package cost comparable to a fully equipped X1 Fold with accessories. However, the MateBook Fold is currently available only in China, with no announced plans for international release. This limited availability significantly restricts its potential market impact outside of Asia. Global support and service represent another consideration. Lenovo maintains service centers worldwide, providing reliable support for business travelers and international organizations. Huawei’s support network is more limited outside of China, potentially creating challenges for users who experience hardware issues in regions without official service options. The target audience for each device influences its value proposition. The X1 Fold appeals to business professionals who prioritize Windows compatibility, global support, and integration with existing enterprise systems. Its ThinkPad branding carries significant weight in corporate environments, where reliability and security take precedence over cutting-edge specifications. The MateBook Fold targets technology enthusiasts and creative professionals who value display quality, design innovation, and ecosystem integration. Its limited availability and HarmonyOS platform make it less suitable for mainstream business adoption but potentially more appealing to users seeking the absolute latest in hardware engineering. Financing options and business leasing programs further differentiate these devices in the market. Lenovo offers established enterprise leasing programs that allow organizations to deploy the X1 Fold without significant upfront capital expenditure. These programs typically include service agreements and upgrade paths that align with corporate refresh cycles. Huawei’s business services are less developed outside of China, potentially limiting financing options for international customers interested in the MateBook Fold. Conclusion: The Future of Foldable Computing The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 2024 and Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design represent two distinct visions for the future of foldable computing. Lenovo prioritizes durability, Windows compatibility, and global accessibility, creating a device that fits seamlessly into existing business environments. Huawei pushes the boundaries of hardware engineering, delivering a thinner, lighter device with a larger display and custom operating system optimized for the foldable form factor. For business users who require Windows compatibility and global support, the X1 Fold remains the more practical choice despite its thicker profile and aging processors. Its proven durability and enterprise-friendly features make it a safer investment for organizations deploying foldable technology. The device excels in versatility, allowing users to switch between tablet, laptop, and desktop modes with minimal compromise. Creative professionals and early adopters who prioritize display quality and cutting-edge design may find the MateBook Fold more appealing, provided they can access it in their region and adapt to HarmonyOS. The larger, brighter display and thinner profile create a more futuristic experience, though the limited software ecosystem and regional availability present significant barriers to widespread adoption. Looking forward, both devices point toward necessary improvements in the next generation of foldable computers. Future models should incorporate the latest processors with AI acceleration, reduce weight without sacrificing durability, integrate kickstands directly into the chassis, and provide larger, more comfortable keyboards. Display technology should continue to advance, with higher refresh rates, improved crease durability, and enhanced power efficiency. Software must evolve to better support the unique capabilities of foldable hardware, with more intuitive mode switching and optimized multitasking. The competition between Lenovo and Huawei benefits consumers by accelerating innovation and highlighting different approaches to solving the challenges of foldable computing. As these technologies mature and prices eventually decrease, foldable devices will transition from executive status symbols to practical tools for a broader range of users. The X1 Fold and MateBook Fold represent important steps in this evolution, each contributing valuable lessons that will shape the next generation of flexible computing devices. The ideal foldable device would combine Huawei’s hardware innovations with Lenovo’s software compatibility and global support. It would feature the thinness and display quality of the MateBook Fold, the enterprise security and connectivity options of the X1 Fold, and an operating system that seamlessly adapts to different usage modes. While neither current device achieves this perfect balance, both demonstrate remarkable engineering achievements that push the boundaries of what portable computers can be. As we look to the future, the success of foldable computing will depend not just on hardware specifications but on the development of software experiences that truly leverage the unique capabilities of these flexible displays. The device that ultimately dominates this category will be the one that most effectively bridges the gap between technical innovation and practical utility, creating experiences that simply aren’t possible on conventional laptops or tablets. Both Lenovo and Huawei have taken significant steps toward this goal, and their ongoing competition promises to accelerate progress toward truly transformative foldable computers.The post Folding the Future: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 2024 vs. Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Huawei just shattered our expectations of what a laptop can be. The new MateBook Fold Ultimate Design doesn’t just push boundaries. It obliterates them. Designer: Huawei Unveiled on May 19, this groundbreaking device introduces the world’s first 18-inch foldable display in a laptop form factor. But calling it merely a laptop feels almost reductive. When unfolded, you’re looking at a stunning 18-inch canvas that somehow weighs less than many 13-inch ultrabooks. When folded, it transforms into a compact 13-inch device that slides effortlessly into a bag. What makes this design achievement particularly impressive isn’t just the folding display itself. It’s how Huawei solved the countless engineering challenges that have prevented others from creating something this ambitious. The innovation extends beyond mere technical specifications. Huawei has reimagined the fundamental relationship between users and their computing devices, creating something that adapts to various workflows rather than forcing users to adapt to rigid form factors. Engineering Marvel: The Hinge The hinge deserves special attention. Stretching 285mm across the device, Huawei calls it the “world’s largest basalt water drop hinge.” This isn’t marketing hyperbole. The three-stage shaft with mortise and tenon structure delivers a 400% increase in hovering torque compared to standard designs. What does this mean for users? Exceptional stability at viewing angles between 30° and 150°, while maintaining smooth operation at shallow angles between 0-20 degrees. When unfolded, the MateBook measures a mere 7.3mm thick. For perspective, that’s thinner than many smartphones. Even when folded, it maintains a relatively svelte 14.9mm profile while weighing just 1.16kg. The exterior combines premium leather and metal elements, available in Black, Blue, and White colorways. The integrated kickstand on the rear panel adds another dimension of versatility. Position the device in landscape or portrait orientation at various angles for different use cases. Present to clients, watch content, sketch ideas, or type documents. The physical form adapts to your needs rather than forcing you to adapt to it. This level of engineering precision didn’t happen overnight. Huawei claims thousands of prototypes were tested before arriving at this final design, with particular attention paid to the durability of the folding mechanism. The company promises the hinge will maintain structural integrity through thousands of folding cycles. Display Technology But the true star is undoubtedly the display itself. The dual-layer LTPO OLED panel delivers an immersive visual experience with a 92% screen-to-body ratio. When fully expanded, you’re looking at an 18-inch canvas with 4:3 aspect ratio and 3.3K resolution (3296 × 2472 pixels). Fold it, and you have a more conventional 13-inch display with 3:2 aspect ratio (2472 × 1648 pixels). This isn’t just any OLED panel. Huawei implemented the first commercial laptop application of LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology, reducing power consumption by 30% while enabling adaptive refresh rates. The 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio ensures deep blacks and vibrant colors across the P3 wide color gamut, while peak brightness reaches an impressive 1600 nits. For those concerned about eye strain during extended use, the screen incorporates 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming and carries TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 3.0 certification. Color accuracy hasn’t been overlooked either. Huawei claims each display is factory calibrated to achieve a Delta E of less than 1, making it suitable for professional creative work. The anti-reflective coating helps maintain visibility even in challenging lighting conditions. Thermal Innovation The revolutionary design extends beyond the visible elements. Cooling such powerful components in an ultra-thin chassis required innovative solutions. Huawei engineered diamond aluminum dual fans and an ultra-thin antigravity vapor chamber heat sink. The copper-steel composite 3D vapor chamber and distributed component layout optimize thermal performance without excessive fan noise. Traditional cooling systems simply wouldn’t work in a device this thin. Huawei’s approach involves separating heat-generating components across the chassis to prevent hotspots. The vapor chamber technology efficiently transfers heat away from critical components to maintain performance during intensive tasks. Fan noise has been carefully tuned to remain below 28dB during typical usage scenarios. This makes the MateBook Fold Ultimate suitable for quiet environments like libraries and meeting rooms where traditional laptop fans might prove distracting. Performance and Connectivity Despite its slim profile, performance hasn’t been compromised. The MateBook Fold Ultimate comes equipped with 32GB of RAM and storage options of either 1TB or 2TB SSD. While Huawei hasn’t explicitly confirmed the processor in all materials, some sources indicate it uses their own Kirin X90 chipset, a fully Chinese-manufactured ARM processor. A 74.69Wh battery powers the device, with support for fast charging through the included 140W USB-C charger. Connectivity includes strategically placed USB-C ports, one on top and one on the side, along with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. The decision to position USB-C ports on different edges of the device shows thoughtful design consideration. This arrangement allows for convenient charging regardless of how the device is positioned or folded. The absence of legacy ports might disappoint some users, but reflects the forward-looking design philosophy behind the entire product. Audio-Visual Experience The audio experience matches the visual excellence with six speakers in total. Three 2W speakers work alongside three 1W speakers, enhanced by Huawei Sound technology. For video conferencing, an 8MP front-facing camera works alongside four microphones to ensure clear communication. Speaker placement has been carefully considered to maintain audio quality regardless of the device’s orientation. Whether used as a tablet, laptop, or in presentation mode, the sound remains clear and directional. The multi-microphone array uses AI-powered noise cancellation to isolate voices from background noise during calls. The camera quality represents a significant upgrade from typical laptop webcams. The 8MP sensor captures more detail than the standard 720p cameras found in most laptops, while the wide-angle lens ensures you stay in frame even when moving during calls. HarmonyOS 5: A New Computing Paradigm Perhaps the most intriguing aspect beyond the hardware is the software. The MateBook Fold Ultimate runs HarmonyOS 5, marking the first time this operating system appears on a Huawei laptop. This represents a significant departure from Windows, offering users a third major OS option alongside Windows and macOS. HarmonyOS 5 is designed specifically for this unique form factor. Intuitive gestures include three-finger swipes to move windows across screens and five-finger spreads to maximize applications. When positioned at a 90-degree angle like a traditional laptop, the bottom half can function as a virtual keyboard with customizable skins, adjustable key spacing, and haptic feedback through a linear motor. The operating system adapts intelligently to different usage scenarios. When folded, it automatically adjusts the interface for a more traditional laptop experience. When fully opened, it transforms into a tablet-like environment optimized for touch interaction. This contextual awareness extends to connected peripherals as well, with the interface changing based on whether the physical keyboard is attached. Input Options For those who prefer physical keys, Huawei includes an ultra-thin 5mm wireless keyboard weighing just 290g. This keyboard features 1.5mm key travel, lasts up to 24 days on a single charge, and magnetically attaches to the back of the device when not in use. The keyboard design deserves special mention. Despite its ultra-thin profile, Huawei has managed to deliver a surprisingly satisfying typing experience. The keys offer tactile feedback that rivals much thicker keyboards, while the full-size layout prevents the cramped feeling often associated with portable keyboards. Touch input has been optimized as well. The display supports 10-point multi-touch with pressure sensitivity, making it suitable for digital art and note-taking. Palm rejection technology works remarkably well, allowing users to rest their hand on the screen while writing or drawing without causing unwanted input. Versatility and Use Cases The versatility of the MateBook Fold Ultimate is perhaps its greatest strength. It transitions seamlessly between tablet mode, laptop configuration, and presentation setup. The built-in kickstand allows positioning at various angles in both portrait and landscape orientations. Creative professionals will appreciate the large canvas for digital art and design work. The 18-inch display provides ample space for complex projects, while the foldable nature means you can still take this capability on the road. Business users can leverage the presentation mode for client meetings, with the large screen eliminating the need for external displays in many scenarios. Students might find the combination of note-taking capabilities and full-size keyboard particularly appealing. The ability to fold the device partially creates a natural reading angle for digital textbooks, while the performance specifications handle research and productivity applications with ease. Market Position Priced at CNY 23,999 (approximately $3,300) for the 1TB model and CNY 26,999 (roughly $3,700) for the 2TB variant, the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design positions itself firmly in the premium market. It will initially launch in China on June 6, with international availability planned for later dates. While foldable laptops aren’t entirely new, Lenovo pioneered the concept years ago, Huawei’s implementation represents a significant leap forward. The larger screen, thinner profile, innovative hinge mechanism, and comprehensive ecosystem integration through HarmonyOS demonstrate what’s possible when design and engineering excellence converge. The pricing strategy places this device in competition with high-end laptops and creative workstations rather than mainstream consumer devices. Huawei is clearly targeting professionals and enthusiasts who value cutting-edge technology and are willing to invest in unique capabilities not found elsewhere. Future Implications The MateBook Fold Ultimate Design doesn’t just represent another iterative step in laptop evolution. It reimagines what portable computing can be. Whether this specific implementation becomes the new standard remains to be seen, but Huawei has undoubtedly expanded our understanding of what’s possible in mobile computing design. As with most breakthrough technologies, we can expect the concepts pioneered here to eventually trickle down to more affordable devices. The engineering solutions developed for this premium device will likely inform future products across various price points, potentially making foldable displays a common feature in laptops within the next few years. The introduction of HarmonyOS to the laptop form factor also signals Huawei’s ambitions beyond smartphones and tablets. Creating a cohesive ecosystem across all computing devices could position the company as a more comprehensive alternative to established players in the personal computing space.The post Huawei’s MateBook Fold Ultimate Design Redefines Mobile Computing with World’s First 18-inch Foldable Display first appeared on Yanko Design.

Photo Credit: Huawei Huawei's recently launched MateBook Fold Ultimate is a foldable laptop Highlights Amazon could be working on its own foldable tablet Huawei recently launched the MateBook Fold Ultimate in China The foldable device from Amazon could arrive by 2027 Advertisement Amazon is working on a foldable tablet that could compete with a similar device said to be in development at Apple, according to details shared by TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The information was comes a day after the launch of the Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate, a new device that sports a large 18-inch screen that can be folded in half to form a 13-inch laptop. According to recent reports, Apple is also developing a large foldable tablet, which could arrive in the coming years.Amazon Reportedly Discussed Key Suppliers for Large Foldable DeviceIn a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kuo states that Huawei might not be Apple's only competitor, when the latter launches its own large sized foldable in the future. Citing his research, the analyst claims that Amazon is working on a similar product that could launch within the next couple of years, before Apple's rumoured product makes it debut.Apple's competitors in the large-sized foldable device market may not be limited to Huawei. My research indicates that Amazon is also internally developing a similar product, which has not yet officially kicked off. If development progresses as planned, it is projected to enter…— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) May 20, 2025According to Kuo, Amazon's large screen foldable is projected to enter mass production towards the end of 2026, or in 2027. This prediction depends on whether Amazon makes progress on its development as expected — the analyst says that it has not yet kicked off.If these claims are accurate, then Amazon could launch a new foldable tablet before Apple's rumoured foldable iPad enters mass production. The iPhone maker is expected to begin mass production of its large-size foldable device by the end of 2027, or in 2028.Responding to Kuo's post, Counterpoint Research Vice President Ross Young said he has been aware of a "foldable Amazon tablet for some time", adding that the e-commerce giant has discussed such a product with key suppliers.Kuo's post comes a day after Huawei launched the MateBook Fold Ultimate in China. The company's latest foldable sports a large 18-inch display that folds into the shape of a 13-inch laptop. When expanded, it can be used as a wide display, but it can also display a virtual keyboard when folded to 90 degrees. Huawei's foldable laptop runs on the company's own HarmonyOS PC instead of Windows 11. There's no word on what Amazon's purported foldable tablet will arrive with. The company has previously released tablets that feature its in-house Fire OS. According to a recent report, Amazon has been developing a new Linux-based Vega TV OS to replace its in-house Fire OS on its smart TVs and streaming devices. KEY SPECSNEWSDisplay size 13.00-inchDisplay resolution 2472x1648 pixelsTouchscreen YesRAM 32GBSSD 1TBWeight 1.16 kgMore Huawei Laptops For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who'sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube. Further reading: Amazon, Foldable Tablets, Apple, Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate, Foldable David Delima As a writer on technology with Gadgets 360, David Delima is interested in open-source technology, cybersecurity, consumer privacy, and loves to read and write about how the Internet works. David can be contacted via email at DavidD@ndtv.com, on Twitter at @DxDavey, and Mastodon at mstdn.social/@delima. More Related Stories

Huawei’s upcoming event is set to debut its Nova 14 series of smartphones, but it’s also unveiling the Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design, a laptop with a foldable screen similar to the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold or the Asus Zenbook 17 Fold. The news comes from the Huawei Terminal account on Weibo, and the event will be held on May 19 at 2:30 PM CST. The machine is being made in collaboration with Hongmeng Computers. Unfortunately, Huawei remained tight-lipped about further details, but given that the event is in four days, it makes sense. The MateBook Fold Ultimate Design isn’t the first laptop to hit the market with a foldable screen, and we can glean some idea of how it will likely operate based on existing models. Recommended Videos The teaser image doesn’t reveal much detail, showing only a side profile and the front of the device in what looks like a screen cover. The fold seems to be around the center point of the device. If it’s anything like the ThinkPad X1 Fold, the MateBook Fold won’t have a keyboard built-in and will instead be more akin to a large tablet. Huawei Most likely, the MateBook Fold will use a Bluetooth keyboard, although it might also have an on-screen keyboard. There is also a possibility that the laptop can be folded, with the Bluetooth keyboard placed atop the lower section, sacrificing screen space for a more compact size. Related This is just an educated guess based on similar devices on the market, so exercising a certain amount of skepticism is recommended. We’ll find out more on May 19, when the laptop will be shown alongside the next wave of smartphones and the recently-revealed HarmonyOS. Until then, other aspects of the machine, including its specs, are anyone’s guess — but we hope it folds into a more compact shape for easy transport, taking cues from the Asus Zenbook Fold 17.