Xiaomi’s wide foldable promises more power than Samsung’s

At the recent IFA trade exhibition, Xiaomi previewed its newest book-style foldable handset, the 18 Fold, adopting a noticeably shorter and wider aspect ratio than its previous offerings.

This physical adjustment mimics recent design trends from competing manufacturers, resulting in dual screens that approximate a cinematic aspect ratio, making the device highly optimized for viewing media and reading digital books. While the wider exterior screen improves single-handed usability when closed, the overall chassis is marginally thicker and heavier than some rival foldables, features a more pronounced crease across the flexible display, and currently lacks any certified dust or water resistance rating.

On the inside, the device is powered by Xiaomi's proprietary processor alongside a specialized graphics unit designed to bring advanced computational rendering to mobile gaming. The hardware features a substantial silicon-carbon battery that supports rapid wired and wireless charging, alongside dual displays capable of high peak brightness. For photography, the phone integrates a sophisticated triple-lens rear setup developed with optics brand Leica, which includes a high-megapixel primary sensor, an ultrawide camera, and a periscope telephoto lens. Offered at a premium price point, the handset is debuting in the Chinese market, representing a significant technological challenge to existing foldable devices even as its global availability remains unconfirmed.