Tag: Huawei

  • Huawei Tri-Fold Phone Leaked: Camera Revealed, September Launch

    Huawei Tri-Fold Phone Leaked: Camera Revealed, September Launch

    Earlier this month, Huawei’s Consumer Business Group CEO, Yu Richard, was seen with the anticipated tri-foldable phone, offering a sneak peek at its expansive internal display. Recently, Yu Richard has been spotted again with the tri-foldable device, this time showcasing it in its folded form. Reputable source Digital Chat Station suggests that this phone will be launched alongside various other Huawei products in September.

    Huawei’s Tri-Foldable Phone Seen Once More

    The device’s tri-foldable design makes it appear thicker than standard flat-screen smartphones, yet it’s not excessively bulky. When unfolded, the thickness is anticipated to be around 5mm, and approximately 15mm when folded. The rear camera is designed with a circular, centered module, similar to the Mate 50 series, and is surrounded by Paris studs.

    Huawei Tri-Fold Phone Leaked: Camera Revealed, September Launch

    Earlier leaks have suggested that the phone includes an inward folding, outward folding, and dual-hinge configuration. The screen is projected to be about 10 inches, featuring a centrally located hole-punch camera on the far left. It will be powered by the Kirin 9 series platform and is expected to launch ahead of the Mate 70, which is likely to be released in the last quarter of this year.

    Upcoming Launch Events

    Per Digital Chat Station, Huawei might host a significant event in September in China. Alongside the introduction of the world’s first tri-foldable phone, the company could also unveil other products, such as the Nova 13 series and the Huawei Watch GT 5 series, which may include an Extraordinary Master Edition variant.

    Currently, the official marketing name for Huawei’s tri-foldable phone is unclear. It remains to be seen if it will be introduced as part of the Mate series.

    Huawei Tri-Fold Phone Leaked: Camera Revealed, September Launch
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  • Huawei Mate 80 Series: Under-Display 3D Face Recognition Rumor

    Huawei Mate 80 Series: Under-Display 3D Face Recognition Rumor

    While the Huawei Mate 70 series has yet to launch, speculation about the next Mate lineup is already circulating. A recent leak suggests that Huawei’s Mate 80 could feature an under-display 3D face recognition system.

    This development isn’t entirely unexpected. Huawei has been gradually advancing face recognition technology in its flagship devices, with rumors indicating the company’s ultimate goal is a fully under-display solution. A Weibo tipster, Fixed Focus Digital, recently posted a screenshot hinting that the Mate 80 series might incorporate this technology.

    Reasons for Delay

    However, don’t get too excited about seeing this tech in the Mate 70 just yet. According to Huawei Central, there are two main reasons why the under-display system might not debut with the upcoming phone. First, the Mate 70 series is said to be focused on integrating the HarmonyOS NEXT software and the new Kirin processor. It’s reportedly already in trial production and could be nearing mass production soon.

    Second, Huawei’s in-display 3D face recognition is still in its early phases. While initial testing has supposedly started, achieving a seamless user experience will likely take more time. Thus, the Mate 80 appears to be a more plausible candidate for this advanced feature.

    Historical Context and Future Prospects

    It’s important to remember that leaks can be unreliable, and there’s a considerable wait for official confirmation. However, Huawei’s dedication to 3D face recognition is well-known. Since its debut with the Mate 20 Pro in 2018, the company has consistently improved the technology in its flagship models.

    The under-display method promises a sleeker design by removing the need for notches or punch-hole cameras. How exactly Huawei plans to implement this technology remains to be seen.

    With the Mate 70 series, the company might finally offer 3D face recognition across all models, a step up from the Mate 60 lineup where the standard variant missed out on the feature. The year 2024 could mark Huawei’s achievement in providing uniform face recognition technology across its flagship devices.

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  • Huawei’s Tri-Folding Phone Supports PC-Level Apps, Minimal Crease

    Huawei’s Tri-Folding Phone Supports PC-Level Apps, Minimal Crease

    Huawei has been developing a tri-folding device for some time now. The company has filed several patents related to its folding technology. A recent patent reveals a tri-folding phone featuring two hinges and a flexible screen that folds outward.

    The latest update indicates that the tri-folding display of the phone has successfully passed the 28μm test. This test assesses the durability and visibility of the crease formed on the screen after multiple folds. The "28μm" (28 micrometers) measurement likely refers to the depth of the crease that appears after numerous folds.

    Durability in Folding Displays

    Maintaining the integrity of folding displays over many folds without developing a noticeable crease is indeed a significant challenge. The tri-folding phone is rumored to have the capability to replace tablets and book-style foldable devices.

    Potential to Replace Tablets

    In addition to advancements in folding technology, the phone reportedly has the potential to replace tablets and book-style foldables. It is speculated that with the HarmonyOS NEXT operating system and a new Kirin processor, the phone will be capable of running many "PC-level applications," thereby enhancing the company’s ecosystem of products.

    However, according to a previous leak, the phone will be expensive and available in limited quantities. The leak suggests that it may serve more as a demonstration of technological prowess rather than a product aimed at capturing a large market share. Reports indicate that the dual-hinge phone will be powered by a Kirin 9 series chipset and will incorporate Huawei’s latest innovations in artificial intelligence. Mass production of the device is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of this year.

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  • Kirin 9100 Leak: Energy Efficiency Matches Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

    Kirin 9100 Leak: Energy Efficiency Matches Snapdragon 8 Gen 2

    Earlier this week, a leak from well-known tech tipster Digital Chat Station (DCS) hinted at the development of a new Kirin chip at Huawei. Today, DCS followed up on Weibo, China’s social media platform, unveiling some additional insights.

    The leak indicates that Huawei is likely to use a “domestically developed n+2/3 process” to produce its next Kirin chip, probably named the Kirin 9100. This suggests a 5nm node, with DCS explaining that it will utilize Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) lithography with multiple patterning for its production.

    Manufacturing Process

    Using this approach, Huawei will achieve transistor sizes similar to those produced at 5nm, but it won’t be the same as the leading-edge EUV (extreme ultraviolet) lithography utilized by TSMC and Samsung. Since DUV lithography requires multiple exposures to create the desired pattern on the chip, it can result in higher production costs and potentially lower chip yield compared to EUV, which can print more intricate designs with a single exposure.

    Efficiency and Performance

    Despite these challenges, DCS notes that the new chip will bring “quite obvious” improvements in energy efficiency over the previous Kirin chip. However, it may not completely match the efficiency of Qualcomm’s latest offerings. According to the tipster, the new Kirin chip is expected to be on par with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. If not, DCS asserts that it will still be more efficient than the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1.

    It’s crucial to remember that these details are still leaks, and specific information such as the Kirin model number, core configuration, and the targeted release date remain unknown.

    Manufacturing Uncertainties

    Moreover, the leak does not specify which foundry will manufacture the chip. While DCS mentions that it will be domestically produced, since TSMC and Samsung are not options due to US restrictions, there is uncertainty about which Chinese foundry is capable of a 5nm DUV process. SMIC is a potential candidate, but it is under scrutiny from the US government regarding its ability to produce advanced chips.

    Kirin 9100 Leak: Energy Efficiency Matches Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
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  • Apple Slips in China, Drops from Top Five Smartphone Vendors

    Apple Slips in China, Drops from Top Five Smartphone Vendors

    Apple has slipped from the ranks of the top five smartphone vendors in China for the first time since it surged in popularity there. According to Canalys, a market research firm, iPhone shipments in China saw a 6.7% year-on-year decline in the second quarter of 2024.

    Rise of Domestic Brands

    Analysts credit this decline to the resurgence of domestic brands. Leveraging advanced, locally manufactured components, Chinese companies such as Huawei, Vivo, Oppo, Honor, and Xiaomi have experienced substantial growth. Notably, Huawei has made a robust return to the high-end market, challenging Apple's premium market position.

    Market Growth and Competition

    The Chinese smartphone market grew by 10% year-on-year, with over 70 million units shipped in Q2. Vivo led the market with a 19% share, equivalent to 13.1 million units shipped. Oppo, Honor, and Huawei followed, each shipping around 10 million units. Xiaomi, which had been facing difficulties, saw a 17% year-on-year increase, re-entering the top five with 10 million units shipped.

    Conversely, Apple's shipments fell to 9.7 million units, resulting in a reduced market share of 14%. Despite offering discounts of up to 23%, the company struggled to maintain its position. Domestic competitors capitalized on localized supply chains and strong brand loyalty among Chinese consumers.

    Strategic Moves

    In light of this decline, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams recently visited China to meet with officials and reiterate the company’s commitment to the market. Analysts, including Lucas Zhong of Canalys, suggest that Apple needs to localize its “Apple Intelligence” platform for China within the next year to recapture market share. The forthcoming iPhone 16 lineup also offers an opportunity to stimulate demand and improve Apple's market position.

    Nevertheless, the competition remains intense. Domestic brands offer appealing features at competitive prices, and it remains uncertain whether Apple can adapt and regain its former dominance in China.

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  • Huawei’s First Gaming Laptop Leaked in Real-Life Images

    Huawei’s First Gaming Laptop Leaked in Real-Life Images

    The 2024 ChinaJoy expo is currently in full swing with various brands announcing several new products — Lenovo Xiaoxin 12.5 tablet for instance.

    Huawei is one of the participants who made a surprise reveal of a new, yet-to-be-announced notebook at the event. Although the company hasn’t shared any details yet, the laptop features a “GT” logo on both the chassis and packaging.

    Historical Context

    Historically, Huawei has reserved the “GT” designation for high-performance products, such as the outdoors-oriented WATCH GT smartwatch and the feature-rich MateView GT monitor. Given this pattern, it is rumored that this “GT” branded laptop might be Huawei’s first gaming laptop.

    Visually, the leaked images reveal a couple of interesting details. The notebook sports a glowing Huawei logo on the lid and a rear-mounted air vent design for efficient heat dissipation. These gaming-centric design choices further support the theory of a Huawei gaming laptop in the works.

    Potential Specifications

    As expected, the specifications haven’t been revealed yet. However, a Chinese media report suggests that Huawei’s gaming laptop might be equipped with an Intel Core Ultra processor and 140W charging support, similar to the Huawei MateBook X Pro.

    Currently, Huawei’s laptop portfolio includes the sleek MateBook X series, the versatile MateBook series, the budget-friendly MateBook D series, and the business-oriented MateBook E series.

    Entering the Gaming Market

    However, the company has yet to launch a dedicated gaming laptop. The recent reveal suggests Huawei is finally entering the gaming market. And according to several Chinese tech publications, the device will be possibly named “MateBook GT.”

    The launch date remains a mystery. Based on Huawei’s previous launch cycles, we might expect to see the “MateBook GT” unveiled at their upcoming autumn product launch event. Until then, we can only speculate and keep an eye out for further developments.

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  • Huawei Confirms Development of Tri-Folding Smartphone

    Huawei Confirms Development of Tri-Folding Smartphone

    Huawei is reportedly developing a tri-folding smartphone set for release within the next two months. Recently, the company has begun promoting the device, which is expected to introduce several industry firsts.

    Innovative Design and Features

    A source close to Huawei has confirmed that the company has initiated research and development on projects related to a tri-folding smartphone. This new device is said to incorporate the latest AI technology and is progressing well.

    During a live broadcast earlier this week, Richard Yu, Huawei’s executive director and chairman of the Terminal BG and Intelligent Automotive Solutions BU, was asked about the tri-folding phone. While he did not deny its development, he mentioned that specific progress details are not convenient to disclose at this time.

    Rumored Specifications

    The tri-folding phone is rumored to feature a unique inward and outward folding design, equipped with a dual hinge system. This design is expected to result in a significantly larger display, approximately 10 inches in size. For comparison, the Huawei Mate X5 has a 7.85-inch inner display. There is also speculation that Huawei might launch this device in September, coinciding with the Mate X5’s release last year.

    At the end of March, the State Intellectual Property Office announced a Huawei patent for a "Folding Screen Device." According to Huawei, the prototype is nearly complete.

    Today, Weibo tipster Digital Chat Station speculated that the tri-folding device will be powered by a Kirin 9 series chip and will introduce a couple of industry firsts.

    Huawei Confirms Development of Tri-Folding Smartphone
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  • Huawei Sues MediaTek for Patent Infringement Over Chip Technology

    Huawei Sues MediaTek for Patent Infringement Over Chip Technology

    Huawei, the Chinese technology conglomerate, has initiated a patent infringement lawsuit against MediaTek, a prominent chip manufacturer, in a Chinese local court. The lawsuit alleges that MediaTek's technologies infringe upon Huawei's network communication patents, which encompass 5G, 4G, and possibly 3G.

    MediaTek acknowledged the lawsuit in a statement released this morning, recognizing Huawei's accusations of patent infringement. Nevertheless, MediaTek minimized the impact, mentioning that it is presently navigating the judicial process and chose not to provide additional comments.

    MediaTek's Role and Impact

    As a leading chipmaker, MediaTek supplies components to significant smartphone and tablet manufacturers, such as Samsung, Amazon, Oppo, Sony, Vivo, and Xiaomi. MediaTek was also a crucial supplier for Huawei's smartphone division until stricter US export controls were enforced in 2020.

    Sources close to the case indicate that Huawei's lawsuit against MediaTek is mainly driven by the desire to secure licensing fees to support its ongoing research and development (R&D) endeavors. Such lawsuits also enable Huawei to diversify its revenue streams, particularly after US sanctions heavily affected its previously dominant smartphone business.

    Huawei's Patent Portfolio and Licensing Efforts

    Huawei holds an extensive collection of standard-essential patents (SEPs) crucial for wireless communication technologies, including around 20% of the world's 5G-related patents.

    Since 2021, in response to intensified US restrictions, Huawei has increased its patent licensing activities. The company has obtained licensing and cross-licensing agreements with major European automakers, including Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW, and Porsche.

    Additionally, in 2023, Huawei signed 5G technology agreements with Oppo and Samsung. The previous year, Huawei sought licensing fees from several Japanese companies, claiming that their technologies infringed its patents.

    Revenue from Patent Royalties

    In 2022, Huawei reported $560 million in revenue from patent royalties, with approximately 200 companies holding licensing agreements with the tech giant, as reported by Nikkei Asia. With the lawsuit against MediaTek, Huawei seems committed to enhancing its revenue streams through assertive patent enforcement and licensing strategies.

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  • Huawei Unveils Processor Details for Popular Smartphone Lineups

    Huawei Unveils Processor Details for Popular Smartphone Lineups

    In a surprising development, Huawei has lifted its embargo on chipset information for its latest phones. This change allows consumers to finally discover the processors powering the Mate 60, Mate X5, and Pura 70 series devices.

    Previously, Huawei had kept the specific chipsets used in these phones under wraps. However, tipster “Adak is a wolf” announced on Weibo that Huawei’s frontline sales staff are now permitted to share processor details.

    Huawei Lifts Chip Embargo, Now Discloses Processor Details

    A visit by Chinese media outlet IT Home to a Huawei flagship store confirmed that the Mate 60 and Mate X5 series are equipped with Kirin 9000S series processors, while the Pura 70 Pro/Ultra features the Kirin 9010 chip.

    Interestingly, Huawei’s recently launched international products, such as the MatePad SE 11", MatePad Pro 13.2", and Nova Y62/Plus phones, already reveal their processor models on the official website.

    The previous secrecy was likely due to ongoing US sanctions, which scrutinize Huawei’s advanced chip manufacturing capabilities. Keeping chip details under wraps might have been a strategy to reduce pressure.

    Shift in Sales Strategy

    This new transparency signals a shift in Huawei’s sales strategy, potentially resulting in clearer communication in future product releases. While specific processor models are now disclosed, the details remain limited. In-store staff can only provide basic information about the chipset family and generation. Furthermore, the phone settings themselves will not display the specific processor model.

    Future Prospects

    Huawei is currently developing its next flagship model, which is expected to compete with the forthcoming iPhone 16 series. The Mate 70 series, anticipated in Q4 2024, will feature an upgraded Kirin chipset with AI-based capabilities, enhanced imaging, and support for satellite communication. This series will run on the HarmonyOS Next operating system and maintain 1.5K resolution displays.

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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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