Huawei's Mate XT Faces High Demand And Limited Supply, Leading To Scalping And Price Gouging. Thechipblog

The highly anticipated launch of Huawei’s Mate XT in China was met with both excitement and disappointment. While many fans were eager to get their hands on the tri-foldable smartphone, the steep price tag and limited availability left some feeling frustrated.

High Demand, Limited Supply

Despite the $2,800 price point, which is significantly higher than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the Mate XT has generated considerable buzz. However, supply chain constraints have limited the number of units available, forcing many potential buyers to wait for future batches. “I’ve been here since 10 p.m. last night,” said a university student surnamed Ye. “But this is very disappointing. They should have made it clear we can’t buy.”

Huawei's Mate XT faces high demand and limited supply, leading to scalping and price gouging.

A Mixed Reception

While some fans were willing to pay a premium for the Mate XT, others were more skeptical. Some questioned the practicality of the tri-foldable design, while others expressed concerns about the high price in a sluggish economy. “I wanted to see what the fuss is about, but it’s a bit big, not very practical really,” said Rui, a potential buyer.

Scalping and Price Gouging

The limited supply of the Mate XT has led to scalping and price gouging on secondary markets. Online marketplaces like Xianyu have seen listings for the phone at prices well above the retail price. “A few people have asked, but it’s far too expensive,” said a phone stall vendor in Shenzhen.

While Huawei has faced its own challenges, Apple has also experienced declining sales in China. The absence of an AI partner and the delayed availability of Apple Intelligence in Chinese have overshadowed the launch of the new iPhone 16. The lack of AI in iPhones is not currently a major concern for me,” said a customer surnamed Shi. “It’s more of a gimmick at this stage.”

The launch of the Huawei Mate XT has highlighted both the demand for innovative smartphones and the challenges faced by tech companies in China. While the high price and limited availability may deter some consumers, the device’s unique features and patriotic appeal have attracted a dedicated fanbase. As Huawei continues to navigate U.S. sanctions and expand its global presence, the future of the Mate XT and the broader smartphone market remains uncertain.