Tag: HarmonyOS Next

  • Huawei to Launch Nova Flip, Replacing Nova 13 Series This August

    Huawei to Launch Nova Flip, Replacing Nova 13 Series This August

    Huawei’s highly-awaited Nova 13 series smartphone release has been postponed, as reported by reputable industry insider Digital Chat Station. The series, which was initially expected to launch in August, will now not be making an appearance.

    Upcoming Flip Phone

    In place of the Nova 13 series, the Chinese tech behemoth is preparing to launch a Nova-branded flip phone. Although specifics about this forthcoming device are limited, the Nova line’s reputation for combining high-end features with competitive pricing suggests a similar strategy for the new flip phone.

    Anticipated Features of Nova 13 Series

    Regarding the delayed Nova 13 series, there are some intriguing rumored specifications. The Pro and Ultra models are speculated to include satellite connectivity, a feature gaining popularity recently. These devices might be powered by the same flagship Kirin 9010 SoC found in the newly released Huawei Pura 70 series.

    The Nova 13 series is also expected to adopt the XMAGE camera technology currently utilized in Huawei’s Pura and Mate flagship models. Enhanced selfie capabilities are anticipated, thanks to dual front-facing cameras.

    Display and Operating System

    Leaks indicate that the standard Nova 13 may feature a flat screen, while the other models could have a slightly curved design. All devices are rumored to boast a 1.5K resolution display, balancing between Full HD and Quad HD.

    Pre-installed with the HarmonyOS Next operating system, the Nova 13 series is also rumored to have a rear camera system with variable aperture technology for the main camera. The higher-tier models might include a periscope telephoto lens. Although these details are yet to be confirmed, they hint at a potentially feature-rich mid-range offering.

    While fans might be disappointed by the delay of the Nova 13 series, the introduction of a Huawei-branded flip phone brings an exciting new aspect to the company’s smartphone lineup. Stay tuned for further updates on these devices.

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  • Huawei Launches Phase 2 of HarmonyOS NEXT Developer Beta

    Huawei Launches Phase 2 of HarmonyOS NEXT Developer Beta

    Huawei has launched the second phase of its HarmonyOS NEXT developer beta program, presenting another opportunity for developers and early adopters to test the forthcoming operating system on specific Huawei devices.

    Applications for this phase are open until July 26th, 2024, at 3:00 PM PST. Submissions made during this period will be evaluated between July 13th and August 5th, with a processing time ranging from 3 to 7 business days.

    Eligible Devices

    This round includes the same devices as the initial phase: Mate 60 series smartphones, Mate X5 foldable phones, and MatePad Pro 13.2 tablets. Interested participants, whether they are developers or regular users, must satisfy certain criteria.

    First, users need to possess a compatible device with the latest baseline build installed. Developers must be registered with the Huawei Developer Alliance and complete the real-name verification process. Moreover, all participants are required to sign a confidentiality agreement and pass a registration questionnaire before submitting their details.

    Limited Slots Available

    This phase offers 5,000 tester slots, so early registration is advised to improve chances of selection. Selection criteria will consider the details provided in the application.

    Interested parties can find the registration links below. It is crucial to remember that this is a beta program. Beta versions can be unstable, might lead to data loss, and may not be fully compatible with all existing apps. Therefore, it is important to back up all essential data before installing the beta update, using a PC, cloud storage, or another external device.

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  • Kirin 9100 Set to Outperform Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, Claims Tipster

    Kirin 9100 Set to Outperform Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, Claims Tipster

    Huawei is anticipated to launch a new Kirin chipset, the Kirin 9100, later this year. This processor is speculated to power the forthcoming Mate 70 series, which will also be the first Huawei phone to come pre-installed with HarmonyOS NEXT.

    Potential Performance Leap

    There are speculations that the Kirin 9100 might represent a significant performance improvement for the Chinese tech giant. However, doubts remain due to Huawei and its chip manufacturer, SMIC, lacking the latest chip manufacturing technology as a result of the US trade ban.

    Kirin chips have so far struggled to compete with offerings from Qualcomm and MediaTek. However, the Kirin 9100 might be an exception. A new rumor indicates it could outperform Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

    Rumors and Speculations

    The information comes from an X tipster, jasonwill, who appears confident that the upcoming Kirin chip will exceed the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. If Huawei’s next-gen Kirin SoC is indeed faster, this would represent a substantial improvement compared to the current-best Kirin 9010, which struggles to compete even with mid-range chips like the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2.

    Additionally, the tipster suggests that the Kirin 9100’s performance could enhance the user experience, even if its on-paper specifications “may not match those of the 8gen3”.

    Software Optimization

    How could Huawei achieve this? The likely answer is software optimization. Huawei is expected to launch HarmonyOS NEXT alongside the Kirin 9100, completely distancing itself from Google’s Android platform.

    According to Huawei, HarmonyOS NEXT is three times more efficient in memory utilization compared to Android. This efficiency translates to smoother UI performance on Huawei devices, even those powered by older Kirin chipsets.

    Another factor contributing to the Kirin 9100’s performance is its manufacturing process. The chip is reportedly set to be mass-produced using SMIC’s 5nm node. While this technology isn’t the most advanced, it should still provide better performance and power efficiency compared to previous Kirin chipsets.

    While it’s exciting to anticipate Huawei’s upcoming chip matching the performance of its competitors, it’s prudent to remain skeptical as such a significant leap forward seems almost too good to be true for Huawei to achieve in one go.

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  • Huawei Mate 70 Series to Feature Next-Gen Kirin Chip

    Huawei Mate 70 Series to Feature Next-Gen Kirin Chip

    Huawei has announced that its forthcoming Mate 70 series will debut with the official version of its proprietary operating system, HarmonyOS NEXT. This news was disclosed during the HDC 2024 Huawei Developer Conference, which also pinpointed a release window for the fourth quarter of this year (October to December).

    A recent leak by well-known tipster Digital Chat Station indicates that the Mate 70 will boast a new generation of HiSilicon Kirin 5G System on Chip (SoC), underscoring Huawei’s ongoing dedication to its internal chipset development.

    Advanced Camera Technology

    The device is also speculated to feature a domestically manufactured 50-megapixel ultra-large-bottom CMOS image sensor, likely sourced from OmniVision.

    Additionally, Digital Chat Station suggests that Huawei is developing a more “heavyweight product.” However, this product is reportedly encountering production challenges due to a very low yield rate. Although it’s not clear what this product is, it might be a new high-end model in the Mate 70 series.

    HarmonyOS Ecosystem Expansion

    A positive development for the HarmonyOS ecosystem comes from remarks made by the tipster. They claim that WeChat, China’s widely used messaging and social media application, is working on creating a native app for the HarmonyOS NEXT consumer version.

    As the official launch window approaches, more information about the Mate 70 series is expected to surface in the coming months. Stay tuned for further updates.

    For those interested in the specifications of the Huawei Mate 60 and Mate 60 Pro, here they are:

    Specifications

    FeatureMate 60Mate 60 Pro
    Screen6.78 inches, Full HD+ (2400 x 1080), OLED6.78 inches, Quad HD+ (3120 x 1440), OLED
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 9000Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
    RAM8 GB or 12 GB8 GB, 12 GB, or 16 GB
    Storage128 GB or 256 GB128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB
    Main Camera50 MP, f/1.8, wide-angle50 MP, f/1.8, wide-angle
    Ultra Wide Camera13 MP, f/2.2, 120°13 MP, f/2.2, 120°
    Telephoto Camera8 MP, f/3.4, 3x optical zoom8 MP, f/3.4, 3x optical zoom
    Macro Camera2 MP, f/2.42 MP, f/2.4
    Front Camera13 MP, f/2.413 MP, f/2.4
    Battery5000 mAh5000 mAh
    Fast Charging80 watts100 watts
    Operating SystemHarmonyOSHarmonyOS
    Dimensions163.8 x 76.6 x 8.8 mm163.8 x 76.6 x 8.8 mm
    Weight207 grams208 grams
    ColorsBlack, white, grayBlack, white, green
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  • Huawei HarmonyOS NEXT: Major Text Input Upgrade Explained

    Huawei HarmonyOS NEXT: Major Text Input Upgrade Explained

    Huawei released HarmonyOS NEXT on June 21st, featuring an intuitive and secure text input experience. With the IME (Input Method Editor) Kit, developers have enhanced control over app input methods, allowing for custom controls and seamless switching. Users enjoy a simplified global method switching system, utilizing long presses for selection and short presses for recent input methods. Text previews make sure users can see exactly what they’re typing, regardless of the input method in use. Security is enhanced with authorization prompts for third-party input methods and reminders for the “full experience mode.”

    Adaptability for Better Usability

    The new NEXT system adapts the text input area across various devices to improve usability. By integrating user research, it raises the input area for blind typing and positions function keys at the bottom for easy access. This system is versatile across devices, recommending layouts optimized for different screen sizes and limiting tablet input method panels to 70% of the screen, enhancing overall usability.

    Contextual Text Suggestions

    Additionally, the input method utilizes the user’s clipboard and Huawei account data to suggest text based on context, including past forms, contacts, and account information, with one-click fill options. These enhancements aim to make text input on HarmonyOS NEXT quicker, more convenient, and more secure. What are your thoughts?

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  • Huawei Mate 70 Leak: 3D Zoom, Better Camera, Satellite Communication

    Huawei Mate 70 Leak: 3D Zoom, Better Camera, Satellite Communication

    A recent tip from @SmartPikachu on Weibo hints at substantial enhancements for the forthcoming Huawei Mate 70 series. These improvements could encompass advanced display technology, superior charging capabilities, upgraded camera systems, and refined software functionalities.

    The tip includes a possible 3D spatial zoom feature designed to offer a more immersive video and audio experience, surpassing conventional 2D filters. This feature might be paired with an enhanced periscope lens and a new generation of variable aperture technology.

    Enhanced Camera Capabilities

    Moreover, the Mate 70 series is speculated to incorporate new OmniVision camera sensors, potentially boosting overall camera performance. The leak hints that this camera system might even outshine the Pura 70 series. For security, a 3D face recognition lens is reportedly being developed for the front of the Mate 70 smartphones.

    The leak also hints at optimized wireless charging for the new series. An earlier leak suggested an ISP imaging chip to enhance video recording capabilities, with the 3D spatial zoom feature possibly adding further improvements.

    Satellite Communication Feature

    Interestingly, the leak suggests that all Mate 70 models might include satellite communication. However, it remains uncertain if Huawei will integrate features like satellite image transmission, seen in the Pura 70 series, or restrict the functionality to satellite calls.

    Regarding the display, there seems to be a division within the Mate 70 models. Three models, including the “Ultimate Design” variant, are expected to use curved display panels, while the standard versions might have flat screens with a 1.5K resolution.

    HarmonyOS NEXT

    Details about the new Kirin chips, overall performance enhancements, and AI features are still unknown. On the software side, the Mate 70 series will run on HarmonyOS NEXT, as confirmed earlier this week.

    While this leak provides a sneak peek into the potential features, it’s crucial to remember that most specifications are yet to be confirmed by Huawei. More information is likely to emerge in the coming days.

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  • Huawei to Launch Mate 70 Series with HarmonyOS NEXT in Q4 2024

    Huawei to Launch Mate 70 Series with HarmonyOS NEXT in Q4 2024

    Following months of anticipation, Huawei has now confirmed that the Mate 70 series will be released in the fourth quarter of 2024, targeting a launch window between October and December.

    Huawei Consumer Business Chairman Yu Chengdong disclosed that the Mate 70 series will be the first to come with the stable version of HarmonyOS NEXT pre-installed.

    HarmonyOS NEXT Launch

    Huawei introduced the HarmonyOS NEXT at the HDC Developer Conference today. This new version completely abandons the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) codebase, meaning that Huawei devices running this OS will not support Android apps at all.

    The Mate 70 series will debut the stable version of the new OS. Following its release, Huawei plans to extend the major software update to other devices. The company has already started Beta testing the OS on the Mate 60 series and several other devices starting today.

    Hardware and Camera Specifications

    Details about the Mate 70 series hardware remain limited, but leaks indicate that the Pro model will retain the triple punch-hole display design seen in its predecessors. However, it’s uncertain if this design will be consistent across the entire series.

    For reference, the Mate 60 Pro includes a 13-megapixel ultrawide selfie camera, a 3D ToF sensor, and additional sensors and lasers for 3D face mapping. The Mate 70 Pro is expected to use the same set of front sensors.

    The rear camera setup is another focal point for leaks. The Mate 70 series could incorporate upcoming Omnivision sensors for enhanced image and video quality. Additionally, the top model in the series might feature a retractable lens, similar to the one found in the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra.

    New Kirin Chip

    The Mate 70 series is also rumored to include a new Kirin chip, although specific details about the chip are still scarce at this time.

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  • Huawei Launches HarmonyOS NEXT, Drops Android Apps Completely

    Huawei Launches HarmonyOS NEXT, Drops Android Apps Completely

    Huawei’s annual developer conference, HDC 2024, showcased a major announcement: the official unveiling of HarmonyOS NEXT, the latest version of its proprietary operating system.

    Developed over several years, HarmonyOS, known as Hongmeng in China, has shifted away from using the Linux kernel and Android Open Source Project (AOSP) codebase. Instead, it features an entirely independent architecture built on Huawei’s own Hongmeng kernel and system.

    Huawei asserts that this new system architecture enhances overall machine performance by 30% and reduces power consumption by 20%.

    Currently, HarmonyOS NEXT is in its beta phase and seeks developers and 3,000 pioneer users to participate. Potential testers should note that the beta version might be unstable and could cause data compatibility issues.

    One System for All Devices

    A key feature of HarmonyOS NEXT is its capability to unify different devices. Huawei claims that developers need to create only one version of an app to ensure a consistent user experience across various Huawei devices. This was demonstrated at the conference with popular apps like Taobao, Yiche, and Bilibili running smoothly on different devices.

    Additionally, HarmonyOS NEXT includes an “App Continuation” function, which allows users to start a video call on their tablet and seamlessly transfer it to their phone with a single click. Data sharing between devices is also straightforward, enabling actions like cutting and pasting an image from a phone to a tablet while working on a document.

    Harmony Intelligence: AI Built-in

    HarmonyOS NEXT extends beyond device connectivity by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), termed “Harmony Intelligence.” This integration brings several features, including:

    • AIGC image generation: Create unique images from line drawings, color existing photos, or enlarge them.
    • Industry-first AI sound repair: Aids individuals with speech disorders by enhancing communication.
    • “Xiaoyi Sees the World” for visually impaired users: Uses AI to describe picture content aloud, aiding in object identification.
    • AI-powered controls: Enables third-party apps to use the system’s AI for real-time text reading, smart form filling, and image/text translation.

    Xiaoyi Gets Smarter

    Huawei’s virtual assistant, Xiaoyi, has been upgraded and is now known as the “Xiaoyi Intelligent Agent,” powered by Pangu Big Model 5.0. Xiaoyi no longer needs a wake word and can be activated by dragging and dropping content onto the navigation bar. This makes interactions more intuitive, allowing Xiaoyi to analyze content and offer actions like generating charts from images or summarizing documents.

    Security First with Star Shield

    Security is a high priority for Huawei. HarmonyOS NEXT introduces the Star Shield security architecture to safeguard user data. This architecture includes:

    • Strict app vetting: Codes and apps not meeting security standards are blocked from installation.
    • Multi-device data encryption: End-to-end encryption across devices for enhanced protection.
    • Hardware-level encryption: Individual file encryption with unique keys stored on the device’s hardware.
    • Permission control: Restricts unnecessary app permissions to minimize privacy risks.

    The Road Ahead

    HarmonyOS NEXT is still under development, with a commercial release expected in Q4 2024. The beta testing phase has started, and Huawei is actively seeking developers and early adopters to provide feedback and help improve the system.

    Huawei Launches HarmonyOS NEXT, Drops Android Apps Completely
    Huawei Launches HarmonyOS NEXT, Drops Android Apps Completely
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  • Huawei Watch 5 Series to Feature HarmonyOS NEXT

    Huawei Watch 5 Series to Feature HarmonyOS NEXT

    A recent leak from Weibo indicates that Huawei is gearing up to release new wearables, the Watch 5 Series, potentially launching later this year alongside the Mate 70 smartphone.

    According to tipster Fixed Focus, the Watch 5 Series will sport a different design compared to its predecessor. Software improvements are also anticipated.

    New System and Software

    The tipster mentions that the wearable will feature a "new system," likely hinting at HarmonyOS NEXT. Huawei is currently developing this new version, with a launch expected on June 21.

    Specific details regarding the features and functionalities of the new OS remain unclear. The tipster didn’t divulge much additional information about the Huawei Watch 5 Series.

    Previous Model Highlights

    For context, the Watch 4 Series gained attention as the world’s first non-invasive high blood sugar monitoring smartwatch. It boasted a 1.5-inch LTPO sapphire display encased in titanium, with various customizable watch faces.

    Despite its size, the Watch 4 Series was noted for its lightweight design. It supported over 100 workout modes and monitored health metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2), stress, skin temperature, and arterial stiffness.

    Battery life differed based on the model. The Standard version provided 3 days of usage, while the Pro model extended that to 4.5 days. An “ultra-long battery life” mode could prolong endurance to 21 days. Connectivity features included eSIM support for calls and LTE 4G for data, along with fall detection for added safety.

    Awaiting Official Details

    While this new leak offers an early look at the potential features of the Watch 5 Series, official details remain scarce. We will need to await further announcements from Huawei to confirm the launch date, specifications, and pricing.

    Huawei Watch 5 Series to Feature HarmonyOS NEXT
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  • Huawei to Launch HarmonyOS NEXT Without Android in September

    Huawei to Launch HarmonyOS NEXT Without Android in September

    Huawei’s upcoming developer conference in June is anticipated to debut the Beta version of HarmonyOS NEXT, marking a crucial development for its proprietary operating system. Although specific details remain confidential, recent leaks indicate a broader release in September across multiple device segments.

    Expected Device Compatibility

    According to the tipster Digital Chat Station, internal schedules point to a September release of HarmonyOS NEXT with support for “candy bar flagships, folding flagships, mid-range phones, tablets, and smartwatches” projected for the latter part of 2024.

    The candy bar flagship referred to in the leak is likely the forthcoming Huawei Mate 70 series, which, based on prior reports, is slated for an early September launch.

    A Shift from Android

    Technically, HarmonyOS NEXT signifies Huawei’s total departure from Android. It abandons the conventional Android Open Source Project (AOSP) codebase and is built solely on Huawei’s own Hongmeng kernel and system applications, rendering it incompatible with Android apps.

    Despite this major shift, Huawei has successfully persuaded thousands of companies and institutions to create native applications for HarmonyOS NEXT. The company has announced that over 4,000 native apps have already been developed for the new OS, with additional ones in progress. These applications cover a range of categories, including navigation, news, finance, and gaming.

    App Development and Market Adoption

    Huawei’s official target is to have 5,000 native apps available by the end of 2024, with a long-term objective of reaching 500,000. The success of this transition hinges significantly on app developer participation and the user experience within the new app ecosystem.

    The planned September launch sets an ambitious timeline for Huawei. Whether HarmonyOS can emerge as a credible competitor in the mobile OS market remains uncertain.

    Huawei to Launch HarmonyOS NEXT Without Android in September
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