Xiaomi is working on two new tri-fold smartphones. A different Xiaomi tri-fold model has been identified in the IMEI database that will be introduced in 2026. While this is still about 1.5 years away, we now know that Xiaomi is developing these exciting new devices. We expect the first Xiaomi tri-fold model to be unveiled in Q1 2025.

Xiaomi’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone, “Zhuque,” Coming in 2025

The first tri-foldable smartphone is code-named “zhuque” and is expected to launch in 2025. This phone will be special because it will have a tri-fold design, meaning it can fold in three parts. Also, this phone will not have any buttons, making it the first buttonless smartphone from Xiaomi.

Another Tri-Fold Smartphone Planned for 2026

In 2026, Xiaomi is expected to launch another tri-fold foldable phone. The model number for this tri-fold phone is “26013VP46C,” and it is likely to be released in the first quarter of 2026. The “2601” in the model number points to January 2026, and the “C” means it will be exclusive to the Chinese market.

This new phone will probably be powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. While there is no information about this processor yet, we can expect that it will offer strong performance, as Snapdragon processors are known for their high power.

“Zhuque” Could Affect the Future of Xiaomi’s Tri-Foldable Phones

The success of the “zhuque” model is crucial. If it doesn’t meet Xiaomi’s expectations, the company might not release it at all, or it could be launched as a limited edition. This could also impact the 2026 tri-fold model and may cause Xiaomi to cancel the project altogether. The MIX Alpha, another experimental Xiaomi device, faced similar challenges. It was introduced with a lot of excitement but only sold in limited quantities and didn’t get further updates.

The “zhuque” smartphone has already appeared in the IMEI database, and there are two versions: one with satellite communication (model number 2503FVPB1C) and one without satellite communication (model number 25031VP29C). Like the other tri-fold models, “zhuque” will only be sold in China.

Xiaomi has tried experimental phones before, like the MIX Alpha, but those devices often face software issues. The MIX Alpha, for example, didn’t receive many updates after its release, which made it hard to use in the long term. If the “zhuque” is not fully ready for mass production, it may face similar problems. If you do buy it, you might need to order it from China, as it won’t be sold globally.

Source: Smartprix

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Huawei‘s tri-fold smartphone has garnered significant attention worldwide. However, Huawei may not remain the only company offering a tri-fold phone for long. A recent patent application from Xiaomi, published by China’s State Intellectual Property Office with application number 2022308530675, reveals the company’s development of a tri-fold device.

While the patent application doesn’t specify the model name, it does reveal the phone’s design. The device folds in a Z-shape, similar to the Huawei Mate XT.

As you can see from the image, the phone will have a horizontally placed rear camera island, which is narrower than that of the Xiaomi Mix Fold 4. The images also reveal that the tri-fold phone will include three cameras on the back. For context, the Mix Fold 4 packs a total of four cameras on the back.

Based on the images, it seems that the tri-fold from Xiaomi will be slightly thicker than the Huawei Mate XT. However, there’s still time for Xiaomi to improve the folding mechanism and thickness and come up with a slimmer tri-folding device.

Notably, this isn’t the first time we have heard about the company’s development of a tri-fold phone. There were patents from as far back as 2019 that revealed the company’s development of a tri-folding smartphone. However, the patent application is a completely different design with a dual inward folding mechanism. It seems like the company has been experimenting with different form factors and folding mechanisms for quite a while.

Back in August this year, Weibo tipster “Smart Pikachu” also talked about Xiaomi’s development of the new form factor. According to previous rumors, Xiaomi could launch this new phone sometime in 2025.

(Via)

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