Xiaomi is preparing to launch its new wide-screen foldable phone, the Xiaomi 18 Fold, just days before Apple is expected to reveal its first foldable iPhone.
Xiaomi mobile division president Lu Weibing shared official images of the phone on Weibo. He confirmed that the Xiaomi 18 Fold will launch in China on September 7, 2026.
The timing puts Xiaomi directly in the spotlight ahead of Apple’s expected September event.
Xiaomi 18 Fold arrives before Apple
Xiaomi has scheduled its launch for September 7. Apple is expected to unveil its first foldable iPhone at an event two days later.
The timing gives Xiaomi an early advantage in the race to bring a new wide-screen foldable to customers. However, Xiaomi has already released several foldable phones, while Apple has yet to enter the category.
The Xiaomi 18 Fold uses a wide design that sits between traditional book-style foldables and smaller flip phones.
Xiaomi 18 Fold display and design
Xiaomi says the new foldable will feature a 5.38-inch external display.
When opened, the device will offer a larger 7.58-inch internal screen.
The phone will also come in a striking red finish. Its rear camera module features three cameras and gives the device a distinctive appearance.
The company has also confirmed that the Xiaomi 18 Fold will use its new XRing O3 processor.
Triple camera system expected
More specifications have emerged through leaks, although Xiaomi has not officially confirmed all of them.
Leaker Digital Chat Station claims the phone will include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
The device could also feature a Leica Summilux triple-camera system.
The reported setup includes an f/1.7 main camera, an f/2.8 telephoto camera with 3.5x optical zoom and a 17mm ultrawide camera.
These details remain unconfirmed until Xiaomi provides more information.
Xiaomi takes on a growing foldable market
Wide-screen foldable phones have become more popular as manufacturers look for new ways to expand smartphone displays.
Samsung has continued to develop its Galaxy Z Fold range, while Huawei has also gained attention with its wide foldable designs.
Apple could soon become the latest major smartphone maker to enter the market.
If Apple unveils its first foldable iPhone as expected, Xiaomi will have launched its Xiaomi 18 Fold only two days earlier.
Will Xiaomi 18 Fold launch globally?
For now, Xiaomi has confirmed the September 7 launch for China.
The company has not yet revealed whether it will sell the Xiaomi 18 Fold in other markets.
A global release could make the phone a major competitor in the growing foldable segment. However, its international price and availability remain unknown.
More details should emerge when Xiaomi officially launches the phone. For foldable-phone fans, the coming weeks could bring an important new chapter in the smartphone market.
