Is Huawei Mate XT’s Tri-Fold Design The Most Expensive Phone in SA?

The smartphone market has reached a new pinnacle with the arrival of the Huawei Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN in South Africa.

Priced at a staggering R69,999, this revolutionary tri-fold device isn’t just a phone: it’s a statement. But with such an eye-watering price tag, one question lingers: Is this the most expensive smartphone ever sold in South Africa?

A New Era of Foldable Innovation

Huawei has pushed boundaries yet again with the Mate XT, the world’s first tri-fold smartphone. When fully unfolded, it transforms into a 10.2-inch tablet, yet folds down to a compact size that fits comfortably in your pocket. The engineering behind this device is nothing short of extraordinary—boasting an ultra-thin 3.6mm profile when open, reinforced with ultra-high-strength steel hinges for durability.

But such cutting-edge technology comes at a cost. At R69,999, the Mate XT isn’t just a premium device—it’s a luxury investment. For context, this price eclipses most high-end laptops and even some high-performance gadgets. So, what justifies such a premium?

Unmatched Craftsmanship & Display

The Mate XT isn’t just about folding—it’s about uncompromising quality. The 3K HUAWEI X-True™ Display offers seamless transitions between single, dual, and triple-screen modes, effectively merging a smartphone, tablet, and mini-laptop into one. Meanwhile, the Eonic Curves camera module undergoes 78 complex processes over 22 days per lens, ensuring each unit is unique.

Then there’s the XMAGE camera system, featuring a 10-step adjustable physical aperture, ultra-wide shots, and 5.5x telephoto zoom. Whether capturing fast-moving action or detailed landscapes, the Mate XT performs like a professional camera—just another reason for its premium positioning.

The Price Debate: Is This SA’s Priciest Phone?

At R69,999, the Mate XT enters an elite category. But does it hold the title of South Africa’s most expensive smartphone? Historically, devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and iPhone 15 Pro Max have commanded high prices, but none have breached the R70,000 mark in official retail channels.

Huawei’s pricing strategy suggests the Mate XT isn’t just competing with foldables—it’s redefining the luxury smartphone segment. Available through Huawei’s online store and select retailers, the device can also be financed at R2,999–R3,099 per month over 36 months. Yet, even on contract, this remains one of the most expensive monthly commitments for a phone in SA.

A Bold Statement—But Who Will Buy It?

With such an exorbitant price, the Mate XT isn’t for everyone. It’s designed for early adopters, tech enthusiasts, and luxury seekers—those who demand the absolute best, regardless of cost. But in a market where flagship phones typically max out around R40,000, Huawei’s pricing raises eyebrows.

Is this the future of smartphones, or an overpriced experiment? Only time will tell if South African consumers are willing to pay R69,999 for a device that pushes the limits of innovation.

One thing is certain: the HUAWEI Mate XT has set a new benchmark—not just in design, but in pricing. Whether it claims the title of SA’s most expensive phone remains an open question. What’s undeniable, however, is that this device is redefining what a smartphone can be—and what it can cost.

Available at Huawei’s official stores and select retailers, the Mate XT is priced at R69,999, with contract options starting from R2,999/month.