Xiaomi unveils 18 Fold, a short wide foldable phone larger than Samsung's Z Fold 8

Xiaomi has joined the emerging market for compact, wide‑format foldable smartphones with the launch of its 18 Fold, unveiled behind closed doors at the IFA trade show last week. The device adopts a “short‑and‑squat” book‑style design that mirrors recent offerings from Samsung and Huawei, but it distinguishes itself by being both shorter and wider, featuring a consistent 1.4:1 aspect ratio across its 7.58‑inch inner display and 5.38‑inch outer screen. The 18 Fold marks Xiaomi’s first book‑style foldable since the Mix Fold 4 released in 2024, and its specifications have been described as superior to those of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8, which is expected to be announced in the same week as Apple’s anticipated entry into the segment.

The new model reflects a broader industry shift toward more pocket‑friendly foldables, with manufacturers prioritising ergonomics without sacrificing screen real estate. By delivering higher‑end hardware in a more compact form factor, Xiaomi aims to appeal to consumers seeking premium foldable experiences while addressing the bulk concerns associated with earlier generations. The 18 Fold’s debut positions the company competitively ahead of the forthcoming Apple release, underscoring the rapid evolution of foldable technology in the premium smartphone market.