Xiaomi is preparing to enter the foldable arena in a big way, with reports pointing to three Xiaomi foldable phones arriving in 2021. Each device is said to use a distinctly different folding design, signalling a bold push into a category so far dominated by Samsung and Motorola. Here is what the early reports reveal and why it matters for buyers watching this fast-moving segment.
What the reports say about Xiaomi foldable phones
According to DSCC CEO Ross Young, Xiaomi is not planning one or two foldables but three new smartphones launching together in 2021. The trio is described as offering noticeably different designs from one another.
The reported lineup spans three distinct form factors:
- An out-folding design
- An in-folding design
- A clamshell design
For the OLED panels in these foldables, the report suggests Xiaomi may turn to Samsung Display and LG Display. No further details beyond this have been revealed.
A rotating camera patent that doubles as a selfie shooter
Some time ago, news emerged that Xiaomi had filed a patent for a foldable phone featuring a quad rear camera setup. The standout idea is a camera module that rotates forward, allowing the same hardware to work as a front camera.
In practice, that means users could enjoy both rear and selfie photography from a single camera system. The report compared this rotating approach to the cameras seen on the Samsung Galaxy A80 and the Asus 6Z.
What is still unknown
So far, Xiaomi has not officially disclosed a launch date or the final features of its foldable phones. Anyone hoping for confirmed specifications will need to wait a little longer for official word from the company.
Why this matters for the foldable market
Until now, the foldable space has largely belonged to Samsung and Motorola. Xiaomi joining the list with three differently designed devices at once could bring fresh competition to the existing foldables already on shelves.
