Xiaomi Mix Fold 5 Could Challenge Apple’s First Foldable iPhone in September
Xiaomi may be preparing for one of its most ambitious launch months yet, with fresh rumors suggesting the company wants to go head-to-head with Apple’s expected entry into the foldable phone market.
According to well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, Xiaomi is planning two major product events in September. The first event is expected to focus on the company’s next foldable smartphone, which could arrive as the Xiaomi Mix Fold 5 or possibly under a new name, such as the Xiaomi 18 Fold. This timing appears far from random, as Apple is also rumored to unveil its first foldable iPhone, often referred to as the iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold, in early September.
If the rumors are accurate, Xiaomi wants its next foldable device to be seen as a direct rival to Apple’s premium foldable. That would mark a bold move from the Chinese brand, especially as competition in the foldable smartphone segment continues to heat up.
One of the most interesting details surrounding Xiaomi’s upcoming foldable is the possible use of the company’s own Xring O3 chipset. Instead of relying on Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, Xiaomi may use its in-house processor to showcase stronger hardware independence and deeper optimization between chip and device.
Recent leaks have also suggested that Xiaomi is changing the design direction of its foldable phone. A leaked hands-on image reportedly shows a form factor that looks more aligned with what Apple’s foldable iPhone is expected to offer. This could mean a slimmer, more refined foldable design aimed at users who want a premium device with a polished flagship feel.
However, global buyers may have to keep expectations in check. Xiaomi’s foldable phones have often remained limited to the Chinese market, and the upcoming model may follow the same strategy. If that happens, the Xiaomi Mix Fold 5 or Xiaomi 18 Fold could become one of the most talked-about foldables of the year without receiving a wide international release.
After the foldable launch, Xiaomi is expected to shift attention to its next flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 18 series. This second September event may happen near the end of the month, likely around the time of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit or shortly after it. The Xiaomi 18 phones are expected to play a major role in the company’s premium smartphone strategy, especially if they launch with Qualcomm’s latest flagship platform.
With Apple preparing to enter foldables and Xiaomi reportedly planning a direct response, September could become a defining month for the next generation of premium smartphones. The battle between the Xiaomi Mix Fold 5 and Apple’s first foldable iPhone may not just be about design or performance. It could also signal a new phase in the foldable market, where major brands compete more aggressively for users looking for innovation, portability, and flagship power in one device.
