Xiaomi might be ready to take a leap beyond the typical foldable. A recently spotted device tied to the company’s Mix Fold lineup could point to its first tri-fold smartphone potentially launching as soon as summer 2026. And if the early clues hold up, it may challenge both Samsung’s Galaxy Z TriFold and Huawei’s Mate XTs.
Xiaomi Mix Fold series may enter tri-fold territory
A new listing spotted on the GSMA IMEI database reveals the model number 2608BPX34C, tied to Xiaomi’s Mix Fold family. While there’s no official name attached yet, speculation has already begun circling around the possibility that this could be Xiaomi’s long-rumored tri-fold foldable.
Unlike a typical book-style foldable, a tri-fold offers a more tablet-like experience. That’s exactly the route Samsung just took with the Galaxy Z TriFold, and Huawei has already launched two similar designs. Xiaomi’s entry would be late but possibly more refined.
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Xiaomi patented a tri-fold design without a cover screen
Interestingly, Xiaomi patented a tri-fold concept over a year ago that omitted a front-facing cover display. This differs from Samsung’s TriFold, which features an external screen for quick interactions. The design Xiaomi pitched focused on maximizing internal screen space, possibly for users who treat foldables more like portable tablets.
Still, it’s not clear whether that early concept is being used. The IMEI listing only tells us that a new Mix Fold device is in development no images, no specs, no official confirmation.
17 Fold expected separately
The next logical follow-up to the Mix Fold 4 is the rumored Xiaomi 17 Fold, which is also expected to launch in 2026. However, reports suggest it won’t be part of this mystery model. That strengthens the theory that 2608BPX34C may belong to the rumored Mix TriFold positioning it as a more experimental entry alongside a conventional foldable.
What sets tri-fold devices apart?
Tri-fold phones go beyond a single hinge, using two folds to create an even larger unfolded display. Here’s why they matter:
- More screen space in a similar footprint
- Increased multitasking potential
- Tablet-like usability in your pocket
- Fresh design opportunities (and challenges)
Xiaomi’s next foldable could push boundaries
For now, all signs suggest Xiaomi is building something different. Whether it turns out to be the Mix TriFold or not, the growing presence of tri-fold phones means one thing: the form factor is no longer a novelty. It’s shaping up to be the next real battlefront in foldables.
And Xiaomi, it seems, is ready to join the fight.
