Huawei has officially entered the foldable PC market with the launch of the MateBook X Fold, the company’s first laptop to feature a flexible OLED screen and run on the HarmonyOS 5 operating system.
Unveiled yesterday, the MateBook X Fold marks a major step in Huawei’s effort to create a fully integrated hardware and software ecosystem, independent of Western platforms like Windows and macOS.
MateBook X Fold: Key Features
The foldable laptop boasts an 18-inch OLED display with a 3.3K resolution and a 4:3 aspect ratio when unfolded. When folded, it transforms into a compact 13-inch form factor, making it highly portable for everyday tasks.
One unique feature is its virtual keyboard, which replaces the traditional physical keyboard. This gives users a dual-screen-like experience optimized for multitasking, media consumption, and professional workflows.
Huawei has yet to confirm the exact chipset powering the device but has stated it uses an in-house processor. Performance-wise, the laptop is available with up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage, making it a top-tier option for power users.
HarmonyOS 5 Makes Its Laptop Debut
The MateBook X Fold is the first Huawei laptop to run HarmonyOS 5, the latest version of the company’s proprietary operating system. HarmonyOS now supports over 150 native apps, including productivity tools like WPS Office and design software such as Meitu Xiu Xiu.
The move further supports Huawei’s push to reduce dependency on U.S. technology amid ongoing restrictions and sanctions, by creating a self-sustaining digital ecosystem.
Premium Pricing, Limited Availability
Priced at 23,999 yuan (around KES 430,000), the MateBook X Fold is aimed at high-end consumers seeking cutting-edge functionality and mobility in one device. As of now, the laptop is exclusively available in China, with no official announcement regarding a global release.
Final Thoughts
With the MateBook X Fold, Huawei positions itself at the forefront of foldable computing technology. By combining a flexible display, powerful hardware, and the custom-built HarmonyOS 5, Huawei is making a bold statement in both the laptop and software markets.
If successful, this launch could redefine the premium laptop experience and influence future designs in the global PC industry.
