In true Apple fashion, the tech giant has once again dropped jaws with the unveiling of its latest masterpiece, the iPhone 16 series. Known for its innovative designs and cutting-edge technology, Apple has delivered yet another sleek device with exciting new features like a refined aluminium finish, a range of fresh color options, the action button, and the lightning-fast 3nm A18 chip.
But while Apple enthusiasts are buzzing about the tech upgrades, many Kenyans are reacting to the iPhone 16’s price tag. With the iPhone 16 Pro starting at KSh129,870 and the Pro Max at KSh155,870, adding in taxes and shipping could push the total past KSh200,000. For most, owning this phone is more of a dream than a reality.
In the same breath, another tech heavyweight is making waves. Huawei has rolled out its latest flagship device, the Huawei Mate XT, a trifold phone that redefines what smartphones can do. So how does Apple’s latest iPhone 16 stack up against Huawei’s groundbreaking Mate XT in Kenya’s competitive smartphone market?
Tech Showdown: iPhone 16 vs. Huawei Mate XT
The iPhone 16 brings Apple’s signature flair, showcasing the highly anticipated A18 chip that promises enhanced speed, efficiency, and AI capabilities. The action button, capacitive slider for camera controls, and sleek design all elevate the user experience. But for some, these features might not fully justify the hefty price.
Huawei’s Mate XT, on the other hand, is nothing short of revolutionary. This trifold smartphone is the culmination of five years of innovation, powered by the Kirin 9010 5G processor. It also comes packed with next-level camera technology—and even a unique feature that helps users apply sunscreen more evenly. Yes, Huawei is looking out for your skin, too.
However, the Mate XT’s starting price of Rmb19,999 (KSh361,981) positions it as a luxury item, far beyond the reach of most Kenyans.
The Price Debate: Can You Afford Luxury?
While the iPhone 16 Pro starts at KSh129,870 ($843), Huawei’s Mate XT begins at nearly three times that, with its basic model priced at KSh361,981. And if that isn’t jaw-dropping enough, the top-tier version of the Mate XT costs Rmb23,999 (KSh434,381).
Despite the eye-watering price, Huawei’s Mate XT has garnered massive interest. The company reported 5 million reservations on their website, which could potentially translate to over $13 billion in sales. Still, ongoing production challenges due to US sanctions may limit Huawei’s ability to meet this demand.
Market Dynamics: Apple’s Stiff Competition in China
While both companies are pushing boundaries in innovation, they face distinct challenges. Apple’s revenues in China have dropped by 10% as local brands, including Huawei, continue to dominate. Furthermore, Apple’s much-touted AI services are unavailable in China, limiting its appeal in one of its most crucial markets.
Huawei, on the other hand, is working to regain its footing after the 2019 US sanctions halted its 5G phone production. The Mate XT represents a triumphant return to the smartphone scene, proving that Huawei can innovate without relying on foreign technology.
Kenyan Consumers: A Dream Deferred?
For the average Kenyan, both phones might as well be works of art displayed behind glass. Jokes about needing to sell a kidney to afford either device are common on social media, underscoring how unattainable these luxury gadgets feel. As one Kenyan X user quipped, “By the time the iPhone 20 rolls out, maybe we’ll finally be able to afford the iPhone 13.”
Yet, both the iPhone 16 and Huawei Mate XT continue to captivate those who can afford them. Huawei’s Mate XT, with its groundbreaking trifold design, is making a bold statement, while Apple’s iPhone 16 refines the user experience within its already robust ecosystem.
The Bottom Line: Innovation or Affordability?
Ultimately, the choice between the iPhone 16 and Huawei Mate XT boils down to personal priorities. If you value reliable, consistent performance with an integrated AI ecosystem, Apple’s iPhone 16 may be your go-to. But if you crave something truly cutting-edge and innovative, Huawei’s Mate XT is a serious contender—if you can handle the price tag.
In a world where luxury tech products continue to break new ground, most Kenyans are left to admire these devices from a distance. But whether you choose to upgrade or simply daydream, one thing is clear: both Apple and Huawei are redefining what’s possible in smartphone technology.