Tag: Huawei

February 8, 2024
Update Enhances Huawei Mate 60 with AR Measurement Tool and Portrait Filters
Huawei Reveals 5G-Powered Mate 60 Series with Awe
In a surprising move during the latter part of 2023, Huawei unveiled its cutting-edge Mate 60 series, boasting robust 5G capabilities. This strategic maneuver played a pivotal role in the company’s resurgence, recapturing a significant chunk of the market share that had slipped away to rivals like Apple.
Huawei Mate 60 Pro: Unveiling the Future
Specifically, the Huawei Mate 60 and Huawei Mate 60 Pro have been treated to an over-the-air (OTA) update. This latest software iteration propels the firmware version up to HarmonyOS 4.0.0.158, ushering in a new era of performance and functionality.
Fresh Elements: Unpacking the Innovations
AR Measurement Tool: Measuring the Future
The official update log brings to light the addition of an AR measurement tool, empowering users to seamlessly gauge height, length, volume, and various other metrics with ease.
AI Cloud Enrichment for Portrait Photography: The Picture-Perfect Upgrade
Moreover, the update introduces "AI Cloud Enhancement" for portrait photography, enabling users to embellish their portraits with beauty filters and enhancements.
Camera Application Refinements: Focusing on Excellence
The update doesn’t stop there, as it also includes refinements to the camera application, enriching the user experience and functionality across various aspects of the camera app.
Authentication System Streamlining: Securing Seamlessly
To cap it off, the new firmware brings about optimizations for the authentication system, ensuring that face and fingerprint unlocking processes operate more smoothly and efficiently.
The OTA software update clocks in at a size of approximately 881MB. Its deployment is gradual, meaning that some devices may receive it sooner than others. However, all users can anticipate gaining access to the update within a few days.
Tags: Huawei, Mate 60 series, system update
February 6, 2024
China’s SMIC Set to Commence Manufacturing 5nm Chips for Huawei, States New Report
Huawei’s smartphone sales experienced a significant boost last year, thanks to the popularity of the Mate 60 series featuring their Kirin 9000S chip.
Huawei’s Need for a More Powerful Chip
While the Kirin 9000S, built on a 7nm process, may not be the top-performing smartphone SoC, its in-house development is a notable achievement for Huawei. However, the company now requires a more powerful and efficient chip for its upcoming smartphone models.
Huawei Aims for 5nm Chip Production
According to a report by the Financial Times, Huawei is now targeting 5nm chip production. Its partner, SMIC, China’s largest chipmaker, has established a new semiconductor line in Shanghai dedicated to producing chips designed by Huawei.
Export Restrictions and National Security Concerns
The move comes as the Biden administration has imposed stricter export restrictions on advanced chipmaking equipment due to national security concerns. Additionally, the US government is collaborating with the Netherlands and Japan to make it more difficult for China to access cutting-edge chip manufacturing equipment.
Challenges for SMIC
For now, SMIC is reportedly repurposing its existing DUV equipment for 5nm chip production. However, this approach may result in lower yields and higher costs of SoCs.
China’s Semiconductor Industry Progress
While Huawei’s 5nm chip may not be able to compete with flagship chipsets from Qualcomm or MediaTek, it is important to recognize that China’s semiconductor industry continues to make progress despite the US ban. Manufacturing a 5nm chip without relying on foreign support would be a significant achievement for both Huawei and SMIC.
Huawei’s Future Plans
An insider familiar with the plans stated, “With the new 5nm node, Huawei is well on track to upgrade its new flagship handset and data center chips.”
Huawei is rumored to be using the upcoming Kirin SoC in the P70 series of smartphones. Additionally, the company is actively working on Harmony OS NEXT, a new generation operating system built on Huawei’s proprietary kernel. The OS will also completely abandon Android app support.
Tags: China, Huawei, SMIC
February 6, 2024
Tipped: Discover Key Specifications & Attractive Color Options of Huawei Pocket S2
Huawei is reportedly developing a new foldable smartphone, known as the Pocket S2, which will feature a clamshell folding design. The successor to the original Pocket S flip phone, the Pocket S2 has had some key specifications leaked online.
Huawei Pocket S2 Specs & Color Leak
The leak comes from Digital Chat Station, a reliable tipster on the Chinese microblogging website Weibo. According to the leak, the Pocket S2 will retain design elements from its predecessor, including a triple camera setup in two circular modules on the rear. One of these modules will also house an external panel. However, both rings will be larger than those on the original Pocket S model.
Like its predecessor, the Pocket S2 is expected to be released in a special Art Edition. Digital Chat Station suggests that the flip phone will be available in a gray color option with a glass back, as well as a purple variant with a leather back panel. The device will be powered by a Kirin 9000S chipset, which supports 5G connectivity. It is rumored to feature a 4,520mAh battery pack with support for 66W wired fast charging.
Tri-Foldable Smartphone
In addition to the Pocket S2, Huawei is also said to be working on a tri-foldable smartphone. However, no further details about this model have been disclosed at this time. As more information becomes available, we will provide updates on this matter.
Tags: Huawei, Huawei Pocket S2, Key Specs
February 6, 2024
Huawei achieves significant growth amidst an 11% global decline in tablet sales during Q4 2023.
Tablet sales ended 2023 on a downbeat note as the numbers dropped a significant 11% in the final quarter compared to the same period last year, according to market research firm Canalys.
Tablet Sales Decline by 11% in Q4 2023
This slump brings the total decline for the year to 10%, with just 135.3 million tablets shipped – the lowest since 2011.
“Even with holiday promotions and bundle deals, the tablet market couldn’t escape its slide,” said Himani Mukka, an analyst at Canalys.
Predicted Rebound in the Tablet Market
However, she predicts a rebound in 2024, thanks to factors like better inventory management, government purchases, and new tablet models from players like TCL and Lenovo.
Apple is also expected to refresh its iPad lineup this year which could further help boost the market.
Apple Remains Top Tablet Seller
Despite the overall decline, Apple remained the top seller, shipping 14.8 million iPads in the final quarter – though that’s still a 24% drop compared to 2022. Samsung followed in second with 6.8 million units, down 10.5% annually.
Top Tablet Sellers in Q4 2023
Huawei took third place with 2.8 million units which is a growth of 95.4% compared to Q4, 2022. Whereas, Lenovo also saw a healthy growth of 15% with 2.6 million units shipped to reach fourth place. Amazon rounded out the top five with 2 million units shipped but suffered a 43.9% annual decline.
Innovation Key to Reviving Tablet Market
Analysts believe innovation is key to reversing the tablet market’s fortunes. Kieran Jessop from Canalys points to the “gap between tablets and other personal computing devices” in terms of features like on-device AI integration.
They say bridging this gap and creating a more unified user experience across devices will be crucial for vendors.
PC Shipments Expected to Rise in 2024
In contrast to the tablet market, PC shipments are expected to see an 8% rise in 2024, reaching 267 million units. This growth is attributed to the upcoming Windows refresh cycle and the emergence of AI-capable and Arm-based devices.
Tags: Growth, Huawei, tablet sales
February 6, 2024
Reportedly, Huawei plans to launch a triple-folding phone this year
Foldable phones are gaining popularity among mainstream consumers, and Huawei is reportedly planning to expand its efforts in this technology. According to multiple sources, including Taiwan’s TechNews, Huawei is developing a triple-folding phone that could be launched in the second quarter of 2024.
Huawei’s Triple-Folding Phone
The triple-folding phone is expected to feature a Z-shaped or S-shaped folding design, similar to other foldable phones. The screen size is rumored to be around 6.4 inches. Huawei has reportedly partnered with panel supplier BOE for the display, while hinge production involves companies Zhaoli and Fusda.
Patents and Research
Huawei has been researching triple-folding display technology for some time now. The company filed patents for this technology in 2021, with additional filings in March and July 2022. Industry insider Ross Young previously suggested that Huawei’s triple-folding phone could be released by the end of 2023, but there may have been delays. However, the latest reports indicate that the technology is now mature enough for market release.
Expected Demand
The development of Huawei’s triple-folding phone aligns with the anticipated increase in demand for foldable phones. Although shipments fell short of expectations in 2023, with only 15.7 million units sold, analysts predict a 12.3% year-on-year growth to 17.7 million units in 2024.
Collaboration and Mass Production
The Associated Press has confirmed Huawei’s collaboration with suppliers for the triple-folding device, suggesting that it is nearing mass production. While specific details about the phone are still under wraps, Huawei’s entry into the triple-folding market is exciting news for foldable phone enthusiasts.
Conclusion
As Huawei expands its efforts in foldable phone technology, the development of a triple-folding phone is a significant milestone. With a rumored launch in the second quarter of 2024, Huawei’s triple-folding phone could contribute to the growing demand for foldable devices. We will keep you updated on any further developments regarding this exciting new product.
Huawei triple folding phone patent in 2021. Image: LetsGoDigital.
Tags: Huawei, triple-folding phone
February 6, 2024
Huawei Slows Down Phone Production and Shifts Focus to AI Chips
Huawei is making a big change in its production plans, showing a strong interest in the growing area of artificial intelligence (AI). The tech giant has chosen to boost the production of its AI chip, the Ascend 910B, even though it means slowing down the making of its Mate 60 smartphones in at least one of its factories. This move is surprising because the Mate 60 had recently done better than Apple in terms of phone sales in China, as mentioned by the South China Morning Post. Huawei’s decision to focus more on AI chips than on smartphones highlights the company’s belief in the significant impact AI will have on the tech world.
Increased Demand for AI Chips in China
The Ascend 910B chip is important for developing AI models, and there’s a growing demand for it in China. This increase in interest comes as Chinese AI developers are finding it hard to get their hands on high-quality AI chips from abroad, like Nvidia’s H100, because of trade restrictions set by the United States. By concentrating on the Ascend 910B, Huawei is not only finding a way around these challenges but also setting itself up as an important player in the domestic AI market.
Chinese Tech Companies Embrace AI
Huawei’s new direction also shows how Chinese tech companies are eager to get involved in the AI field. Even though they’re a bit behind global leaders like OpenAI and Google, companies such as Baidu are moving forward with their own AI projects. China is also ahead in making rules for AI, requiring companies to get approval before they release AI products to the public.
Preparing for the Future
With this shift towards AI technology, Huawei is preparing for the future, focusing on an area that could change technology in big ways. This move shows Huawei is thinking ahead, ready to face current challenges while betting on the long-term importance of AI.
Tags: AI chips, Huawei, phone production
February 5, 2024
Apple Surpassed by Huawei as China’s Top-selling Smartphone Brand in Early 2024
Huawei experienced an exciting growth in the Chinese smartphone market in 2023. Recently IDC report revealed that Huawei’s shipments increased by 36.2% in Q4, 2023 making it the fourth-largest smartphone brand in China.
Huawei Tops Smartphone Sales in China in 2024
A new report by Counterpoint Research now reveals that Huawei has clinched the top spot in smartphone sales during the first two weeks of 2024.
The achievement is particularly noteworthy, not just because it has surpassed Apple, but also because it’s the first time since the 2019 US ban that Huawei has secured the leading position in terms of smartphone sales in China.
Mate 60 Series Key to Huawei’s Success
As expected, the Mate 60 series is the key to Huawei’s recent success in the Chinese market. Launched last year, the smartphones feature a Kirin 9000S processor and Harmony OS operating system. Mate 60 series is still said to be in high demand in the mainland, according to local distributors.
Huawei’s Ambitious Plans for Harmony OS NEXT
Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to launch Harmony OS NEXT; an operating system with Huawei’s own kernel which will phase out Android app support completely. Expected to launch by the end of 2024, its success will have a significant impact on Huawei’s smartphone business.
Nova 12 Series Boosts Sales
Except for the Mate 60, the Nova 12 series launched back in December has also helped Huawei to increase its sales numbers. These are all mid-range smartphones powered by Kirin processors, except for the Nova 12 Lite which has a Snapdragon 778G 4G chip inside.
Chinese Brands Chipping Away at Apple’s Market Share
According to a Counterpoint report, the high-end smartphone market in China saw a growth of 27% in 2023. While Apple continues to hold the top position, Huawei and other Chinese brands have been gradually chipping away at Apple’s market share since the third quarter of 2023.
Tags: Apple, Huawei
February 4, 2024
Introducing the Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese Edition: Now available in Malaysia with exclusive promotions and complimentary gifts
Huawei Malaysia has just released the new Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese version, and it’s now available for purchase nationwide.
Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese specs:
The Gold Milanese variant of the Huawei Watch GT 4 features a 41mm 1.32-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels and 352 PPI. It has a battery life of up to two weeks and comes with a range of features.
What makes this variant special?
What makes this variant special is its design. It has a bold, classy look, providing a comfortable fit. The watch supports over 25,000+ watch faces and includes features like Geometric Aesthetics, Pro-level health statistics, interconnectivity, and various workout modes.
Pricing, availability, and offers:
The Huawei Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese is priced at RM1299, and you can buy it directly from Huawei’s official website. To give more value to customers, Huawei is offering free gifts worth RM516 with the purchase of the Watch GT 4 Gold Milanese. This includes a 1-year extended warranty, a Huawei EasyFit Fluoroelastomer Strap 18mm in Glacier White, and a pair of FreeBuds SE in white.
Buyers will also earn double Huawei Member points for future shopping. There’s also an RM 100 voucher available, but you need to claim it before February 5, 2024.
Tags: GT 4 Gold Milanese, Huawei, Malaysia launch
February 3, 2024
Nvidia Challenges Huawei: Titans Clash in China’s AI Market
Nvidia is introducing the H20, a graphics processing unit (GPU) designed specifically for the Chinese market. This move puts Nvidia in direct competition with Huawei Technologies, a major player in China’s tech industry. Both companies are offering products that not only have similar performance capabilities but also closely match in terms of pricing, indicating a fierce competition in the tech sector.
Nvidia’s H20 Chip to Compete with Huawei’s AI Chip
Nvidia’s H20 is a crucial component in the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), with a price range of $12,000 to $15,000 per card. This pricing strategy puts it in direct competition with Huawei’s Ascend 910B, an AI chip that offers comparable capabilities and price points. In the midst of strict US trade sanctions that have disrupted the tech industry, Nvidia’s launch of the H20 is a significant move to maintain its presence in the highly profitable Chinese market.
Catering to the Growing Demand for AI Training Tools in China
Nvidia’s initiative goes beyond simply penetrating the market. With the H20, the company aims to meet the increasing demand for AI training tools in China, a country that has quickly become a hub for AI research and development. However, this strategic deployment comes with its own challenges. Previous US sanctions have hindered Nvidia’s ability to export its most advanced GPUs to China, leading to a shift in focus towards creating tailored solutions such as the A800 and H800 GPUs, and now, the H20.
Performance and Compliance Concerns
Despite the anticipation surrounding the market debut of the H20, there are lingering questions about its performance, particularly due to the constraints imposed to comply with US regulations. The tech community is closely watching to see if the H20 can live up to the legacy of its predecessors or if it will carve out a new niche for itself in the competitive landscape of AI technologies.
Tags: Huawei, NVIDIA
February 1, 2024
Exciting Advances in GPU Software Await as Huawei’s HarmonyOS for PC is in Development
Huawei Takes on the PC Market with HarmonyOS Project
Huawei, known for its innovative smartphones and smart appliances, is now venturing into the PC market with its HarmonyOS PC project. This move signifies Huawei’s determination to challenge the dominance of the Android ecosystem and carve out a unique space for itself in the market.
Ambitious Plans for HarmonyOS PC
Huawei’s plans to develop a HarmonyOS PC come as no surprise, as the company’s former executive Wang Chenglu had previously hinted at an official release of HarmonyOS for PCs in 2024. According to insider reports from Weibo tipster Fixed Focus Digital, Huawei is also planning to introduce significant innovations in GPU software, aiming to provide an unmatched user experience for Huawei PC users.
Impressive Specifications
The tipster has also shed light on Huawei’s Kirin PC processor, showcasing its technical prowess. The processor boasts advanced core configurations, including 4×TSV big cores and 4×TSV medium cores, along with high-end components like the Maleoon 910 GPU and dual NPU setups to enhance AI capabilities. These specifications highlight Huawei’s commitment to delivering top-notch performance in its upcoming PCs.
Exciting Laptops and HarmonyOS Next
In addition to its PC project, Huawei is gearing up to launch some exciting laptops this year, focusing on impressive specifications and features. Meanwhile, the company is diligently working on HarmonyOS Next, its version of HarmonyOS for mobile devices. This represents a significant departure from Android, as Huawei aims to challenge the dominance of Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS in China. The developer version of HarmonyOS Next has already been released, with plans for a commercial launch in the fourth quarter of this year.
Building an Ecosystem
Huawei is not just focusing on developing new products; the company is also building an ecosystem and gaining support from industry partners. It has made substantial investments in this endeavor, aiming to redefine the smartphone OS landscape and potentially surpass iOS in China by 2024, despite facing challenges from US restrictions.
In conclusion, Huawei’s foray into the PC market with its HarmonyOS PC project demonstrates the company’s determination to compete with the established Android ecosystem. With impressive specifications and a focus on innovation, Huawei aims to create a unique space for its HarmonyOS PCs in the market. Additionally, the company’s plans to launch exciting laptops and its development of HarmonyOS Next further solidify Huawei’s commitment to challenging the dominance of Android and iOS in China.
Tags: HarmonyOS, Huawei