Huawei has unveiled its latest Mate 70 series, marking a significant shift in its software strategy with the introduction of HarmonyOS Next. This new operating system, which is not compatible with Android apps, will be featured across all four models: the Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro Plus, and Mate 70 RS. The decision to move away from Android comes in the wake of ongoing US sanctions, resulting in the absence of US hardware in these devices.
Features and Specifications
The Mate 70 series is designed to cater to a variety of user needs. The base model, the Huawei Mate 70, boasts a 6.7-inch display with refresh rates of up to 120Hz, a robust 5,300mAh battery, and fast charging capabilities that reach 66W via USB-C, along with wireless charging at 50W. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate its camera setup, which includes a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization, a 12MP telephoto periscope camera, a 40MP ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 13MP front-facing selfie camera. This model starts at 5,499 yuan (approximately 0) for the variant with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
Upgrades in the Mate 70 Pro include support for Wi-Fi 7, enhanced satellite communication features, and improved charging speed, with a starting price of 6,499 yuan (around 8). The Mate 70 Pro Plus elevates the experience further with upgraded camera sensors and a bump in base specifications to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, retailing at 8,499 yuan (approximately ,174). For those seeking luxury, the Mate 70 RS combines the features of the Pro Plus with premium materials like titanium, beginning at 11,999 yuan (around ,657).
While Huawei has not disclosed the specific processors used in the Mate 70 lineup, previous models have utilized chips manufactured by China’s SMIC, indicating a continuation of this trend.
Innovations in Foldable Technology
In addition to the Mate 70 series, Huawei has also introduced the Mate X6, its latest foldable smartphone. This device features a 7.93-inch internal display and a 6.45-inch external screen, both slightly larger than its predecessor, the Mate X5. Constructed from a blend of carbon fiber and aluminum, the Mate X6 is designed for enhanced durability while maintaining a sleek profile, measuring 9.85mm thick when folded and 4.6mm when opened.
The camera system on the Mate X6 includes an impressive 50MP main camera, complemented by a 48MP telephoto periscope camera and a 40MP ultra-wide camera, along with 8MP selfie cameras on both displays. The standard model starts with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, featuring a 5,110mAh battery, priced at 12,999 yuan (around ,790). A collector’s edition will also be available, offering 16GB of RAM, a larger 5,200mAh battery, and satellite communication capabilities for 14,999 yuan (approximately ,060).
As Huawei continues to innovate in the smartphone market, the Mate 70 series and Mate X6 reflect the company’s commitment to developing unique technologies and ecosystems, even in the face of significant challenges.
