Huawei launches new $2600 foldable 5G phone

Huawei has been battling global scrutiny over its telecom equipment, but often overlooked is the company’s rapid growth as a smartphone manufacturer

Huawei Technologies Co announced a smartphone that unfolds into a small tablet computer, potentially rendering the need to carry two separate devices obsolete.

The Mate X supports next-generation 5G networks and will cost 2,299 euros ($2,606) when released in the summer. Its the second folding phone announced by a major manufacturer within a week. Samsung revealed the Galaxy Fold on Wednesday.

“We’ve been working on this folding screen hinge for three years. Its very expensive, but there’s lots of new technology here,” Huawei Consumer Group Chief Executive Officer Richard Yu said on stage at MWC Barcelona Sunday.