This is my first time reviewing a HUAWEI phone, and to be honest, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.
Foldable devices have always intrigued me, but I’ve also had my reservations—not just about foldables, but also about the HUAWEI brand and whether it could deliver the kind of user experience I’ve come to expect from other players in the mobile phone market.
Would it feel flimsy because of its ultra-slim profile? Would it deliver on the promise of productivity and innovation? What about my apps? Will I be able to download them all?
After spending some time with the HUAWEI Mate X6, I’ve found my answers – and they’re surprisingly quite positive.
Slim Design, Big Impression
One of the first things I noticed about the Mate X6 was its premium build quality. At just 239 grams and a mere 9.85mm when folded, it’s incredibly sleek—but it’s not without heft. It feels heavier than you might expect for such a slim device, but that weight lends it a certain durability and premium feel that’s reassuring.
Adding to its elegance is the faux leather back, which not only enhances its grip but also gives it a luxurious, sophisticated look. This detail makes the Mate X6 feel more like a high-end accessory than just a smartphone, complementing its overall refined design.
I had my doubts about the hinge, but it’s impressive how smooth and sturdy it feels. The multi-dimensional hinge mechanism creates a crease-free display and folds seamlessly without any gaps.
Despite being so slim, the phone doesn’t feel fragile—it’s a testament to the craftsmanship and choice of materials like the 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass and aviation-grade aluminum.
The Mate X6 definitely strikes a good balance between form and function.
From Phone to Tablet: Productivity Meets Portability
If you’ve ever wondered whether a foldable phone can replace a tablet for productivity, the Mate X6 makes a strong case.
Unfolding the 7.93-inch OLED screen transforms it into a mini workstation. Editing documents, answering emails, or researching online becomes straightforward with the Live Multi-tasking feature, which allows you to split the screen into three panels for seamless multitasking.
For me, it felt like a great tablet replacement for on-the-go productivity. The screen is vibrant and bright, with a peak brightness of 1800 nits, making it perfect for both work and entertainment. Even tasks like streaming content or reading e-books felt immersive and enjoyable.
From Skepticism to Confidence in Apps
One of my biggest concerns before trying the Mate X6 was app availability.
Without Google Play Store natively installed, I worried I wouldn’t be able to download the apps I rely on daily. But to my surprise, HUAWEI’s AppGallery had most of the apps I needed.
(Sadly, Farmville 3 does not seem to be supported on the Mate X6 at the time of this writing — yes I checked, lol.)
For apps not directly available, the GBox integration provided an easy workaround, allowing me to access a wider range of apps. However, I did notice one small hiccup. Some apps seem to struggle with the GBox environment, constantly sending sign-in reminders. While it doesn’t impact usability much, it can feel a bit distracting if you’re the type to dislike persistent notifications.
That said, it’s clear that HUAWEI has put thought into ensuring a smooth experience for users transitioning from other ecosystems, which is a big win for someone like me who’s skeptical of making major platform shifts. The fact that I was able to get most of my essential apps running speaks volumes about how adaptable the ecosystem has become.
A New Perspective on Smartphone Cameras
As someone new to the HUAWEI ecosystem, I wasn’t prepared for the Ultra-Chroma Camera system on the Mate X6.
It’s equipped with a 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera, 48MP Telephoto Micro Camera, and 40MP Ultra-Wide Angle Camera.
With its adjustable aperture and quad-camera setup, it delivers exceptional results. The Mate X6 excels in capturing vibrant, detailed, and professional-quality shots, from landscapes to close-ups and portraits.
The hinge even allows for hovering photography, which makes it easier to capture creative angles. Features like AI Moving Picture and multi-exposure photography add an extra layer of fun to the experience, making this foldable more than just a productivity tool.
A Foldable Built to Last
Despite my initial doubts, the Mate X6 proved to be anything but flimsy. Its IPX8 water resistance, anti-drop Kunlun Glass, and aviation-grade materials make it a reliable daily driver.
While the device does lean towards the heavier side, it feels balanced and comfortable in hand – especially when considering the durability and large display it offers.
Thoughts After Using the Mate X6
The HUAWEI Mate X6 surprised me in more ways than one.
As someone reviewing a HUAWEI phone for the first time, I came in with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. What I discovered was a device that delivers on its promises: it’s durable despite its slimness, packed with features that enhance productivity, and capable of replacing other devices like tablets for those who are constantly on the go.
While app availability was a concern initially, HUAWEI’s AppGallery alleviated most of my worries. And when it comes to performance, camera capabilities, and design, the Mate X6 feels like a polished, premium product.
If you’re looking for a foldable that balances form and function, the Mate X6 is worth considering.
Unfold the Classic: Exclusive HUAWEI Mate X6 Preview
If you’re eager to experience the HUAWEI Mate X6 up close, mark your calendars for the “Unfold the Classic” exclusive preview events happening on January 11-12, 18-19, and 25-26, all at 3:00 PM. These events will be held across 35 select HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide, giving you the chance to see the Mate X6 in action and explore its features firsthand.
For a complete list of participating stores, you can check it out here.
And if you’re ready to buy, here’s where you can find the HUAWEI Mate X6 online: