Following great excitement around the launch of the new HUAWEI nova 11i, the HUAWEI Consumer Business Group has announced that the smartphone is now available on South Africa’s retail shelves and from the HUAWEI online store. The HUAWEI nova 11i is a reiteration of the brands elite flagship lite smartphones and exudes the best of cutting-edge technology innovations.
From practical features such as large screen with narrow bezels, and long battery life with large storage space, to an exquisite design, smooth experience, and reliable quality – the HUAWEI nova 11i has a perfect blend of beauty and power packaged in one. The vibrant smartphone caters to the aspirational and dream chasers. Here are some of the standout device features you can look forward to:
An iconic look and feel, crafted to perfection
The HUAWEI nova 11i inherits the classic Star Ring design of its predecessors —creating the impression of two stars in orbit and embodying the spirit of interstellar adventure.
The Double Star Orbit Rings embedded in the exquisite body help create an iconic look while the moisture-proof and fingerprint-resistant coating guarantee a great tactile experience.
The HUAWEI nova 11i has a flat screen bordered by tiny 1 mm bezels, resulting in a staggering 94.9% screen-to-body ratio, which gives you an immersive experience when watching videos or playing games. At just 8.55 mm thick and 193 g, the HUAWEI nova 11i is designed to ensure seamless one-handed browsing.
If you love pure colour tones, you’ll appreciate the Mint Green and Starry Black hues, which uniquely exude elegance.
The SuperCharged, boundless battery life
The HUAWEI nova 11i enables super-fast charging with 40 W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo. When the Turbo Mode is enabled, the phone can be charged to 60% in up to 30 minutes. Coupled with a 5000 mAh extra-large capacity battery bolstered by smart power management technology and 22-layer intelligent charging protection, the HUAWEI nova 11i can accompany you from dawn-to-dusk with power to spare.
In addition, the HUAWEI nova 11i can identify and limit the power consumed by non-essential apps, to ensure the user has power to spare when you need it most — this is especially useful when you're on the move.
A superior photography experience
The HUAWEI nova 11i has a 48 MP High-Res Camera paired with a 2 MP depth camera to let you capture the world around you in detail. Using a RAW domain algorithm, the cameras are able to identify key elements in a scene and accurately capture stunning images in poorly lit and backlit environments.
The AI Snapshot uses a HUAWEI proprietary motion detection algorithm to track motion in real time and adjust the shutter speed to ensure that no movement is missed.
If you love selfies, the 16 MP selfie camera supports portrait segmentation and background blurring, so that you can stand out from every background, while the AI beautification algorithms enhance facial features, to reflect you at your best. When recording videos, you can freely switch between the front and rear cameras, with the final video featuring seamless transitions between the two.
Unmatched performance and effortless interaction
The HUAWEI nova 11i screen has 90 Hz refresh rate to provide silky-smooth on-screen action and with its 270 Hz touch sampling rate, you can swipe through websites and videos with little lag and get into actions much faster while playing games. The peak volume on HUAWEI nova 11i is a staggering 88 dB, which allows the phone to serve as the life of the show when watching videos or listening to music.
With 128 GB of storage, you can easily store up to 160 episodes of hit TV dramas, 10,000 high-res tracks, and more than 70 ultra-HD films.
What’s more, the HUAWEI nova 11i comes with EMUI 13, a smart operating system for smoother interaction and comfortable viewing - the minimalist home screen style allows users an extraordinary level of customisation as well as bolstered privacy and security, leaving everything under your control.
For high-performance and a captivating user experience, buy the HUAWEI nova 11i on the HUAWEI online store or from selected retailers priced at R5 999. You can visit Vodacom, MTN, Telkom or Cell C stores to get the new smartphone from R329 for 24 months, T&Cs apply.
Global technology brand HONOR today reaffirmed its commitment to international markets during its IFA keynote presentation, titled “Embracing the Connected Future.” During the event, the brand announced a new Dual Flagship Strategy to bring the next foldable and all-round flagship smartphones to Europe and other international markets. The brand also previewed MagicOS 7.0, an upcoming all-scenario smart collaboration OS based on Android as well as PC and IoT operating systems, embracing open standards to facilitate seamless collaboration among smartphones, tablets, PC and other IoT products. Bolstering its innovative product portfolio, HONOR introduced three new products: HONOR 70, HONOR MagicBook 14 and HONOR Pad 8, the first HONOR tablet available outside of China. All three products are set to arrive in select European markets in the coming weeks.
Bringing HONOR Talents to the global stage, HONOR also unveiled Gateway to the Future, a global initiative piloting in Hamburg, Germany with the aim of inspiring creative talent from all around the world to use the power of technology to connect people with culture in the era of the metaverse.
“Since our inception, HONOR has always aspired to make great contributions to the industry to enable a better future for all. To achieve that goal, we’ve stayed laser-focused on our commitment to innovation,” said George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co, Ltd., “With the introduction of our Dual Flagship Strategy, MagicOS 7.0, Fitness and Health solution, we look forward to providing compelling options to European and international consumers who are seeking the best foldable smartphones and the most premium user experiences on the market.”
Embracing the Connected Future with New Dual Flagship Strategy and MagicOS
As a global technology, HONOR has always strived to innovate with purpose and deliver user benefits that matter. For the first time, HONOR will be introducing its foldable smartphones to international markets. Announced during IFA 2022, the Dual Flagship Strategy will see HONOR bring its upcoming foldable flagship smartphones and all-round flagship smartphones to Europe and other regions around the world.
HONOR also unveiled MagicOS 7.0, a new OS designed to provide seamless experience across the cross-platform, cross-device experiences. It is based on Android as well as PC and IoT operating systems, so devices running different OS can connect to MagicOS devices at a system level. Alongside new user interface changes, MagicOS 7.0 will let users control an HONOR laptop, smartphone and tablet using a single keyboard and mouse. Through the feature, users can drag files across devices seamlessly, as well as type text into the smartphone or tablet with their laptop keyboard. MagicOS 7.0 will be officially announced in Q4 2022.
In line with its commitment to contributing to the wider industry, HONOR announced that the brand has joined various IoT consortiums including Matter and Ola, helping to formulate common industry standards that promote open collaboration. In addition, the new HONOR Developer Service Platform will provide direct support and services to developers. Among the many services available, developers can submit their apps into App Market and Game Center through the platform. It will also provide developers with access to various system capabilities for them to develop cross-device features for HONOR device users in the future. Interested developers may visit the following site for more information: https://developer.hihonor.com.
Further signifying the brand’s commitment to cross-device functionality, HONOR is expanding its partnership with Microsoft to bring Phone Link to international HONOR device users. Previously only available to HONOR device users in China, Phone Link lets users connect select HONOR smartphones to Windows PCs to unlock new cross-device capabilities, including the ability to view notifications, make and receive calls on their PC and use mobile apps on Windows. The HONOR Magic4 Pro is among the first international HONOR smartphone models to support Phone Link, while the HONOR 70 will also support Phone Link following an OTA update.
Furthermore, from October, the upgraded HONOR Health app will provide personalized custom user interfaces and offer fitness suggestions and training courses according to user habits, helping smartphone users to achieve their health goals.
Introducing HONOR’s Spatial Audio
Announced during IFA 2022, HONOR’s Spatial Audio solution is designed to enable headphones to produce wide, cinematic 3D sound effects that create the sense of immersion required for next-generation AR and VR experiences.
At its core, HONOR's Spatial Audio is designed to deliver surround sound and 3D audio through headphones by using the accelerometer and gyroscopes in earbuds to track the motion of the user’s head, remapping the sound field to bring users an immersive and delightful audio experience in all scenarios such as movies, music and games. And by means of the algorithm, the changes of sound on its way from the source to the listener's ear can be simulated. These effects include localization of sound sources above, below, behind and in the front of the listener.
HONOR's Spatial Audio is the first to support sound externalization distance adjustment, providing users to dynamically adjust the distance of virtual sound sources from 0.15 to 10 meters to suit a more personalized listening experience.
Introducing HONOR 70 to Global Markets, a Vlogging Masterpiece
Designed for vlogging enthusiasts, the HONOR 70 is HONOR’s latest addition to its high-end N Series smartphone line up. The stylish device debuts with Solo Cut mode, which lets users easily produce vlogs that spotlight a specific person in a group through built-in Person Re-identification Technology. With Dual Video Streaming, HONOR 70 can record two videos simultaneously, with one featuring a single subject and the other capturing the full group.
Capturing high quality vlogs is easy with the HONOR 70, thanks to its powerful Dual Main Camera that comprises a 54MP IMX800 Super Sensing Main Camera with a large 1/1.49-inch IMX800 Sensor and a 50MP Ultra-Wide & Macro camera. The new smartphone is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G Plus 5G and supports GPU Turbo X and OS Turbo X, delivering smooth performance and a responsive experience across a range of heavy-duty tasks, including video editing for vloggers who are always on the move.
In recognition of HONOR 70’s excellent user experience, the Expert Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) awarded the smartphone the EISA BEST BUY SMARTPHONE 2022-2023 award. EISA is an expert community comprising over 60 of the world's most respected consumer electronics magazines, websites and social media commentators from 29 countries.
The HONOR 70 is the first HONOR N Series smartphone to run HONOR Magic UI 6.1 based on Android 12. HONOR 70 5G + (Redcore 1 GB) – is available in South Africa now on sale. You can get it from Vodacom at the price of R749 with 24 months of installments, or at R579 with 36 months of installments. Available in premium colors Crystal Silver and Midnight Black. With the purchase consumers also get a chance to get R500 accessory voucher. The device is also available through MTN in the hero color the Crystal Silver and comes with Mega Talk/Gigs XS at a price of R799 with 24 months of installments, or R549 with 36 months of installments. Through MTN consumers can also avail 2000mAh power bank as a gift. Both versions come with Google Mobile Services.
Enabling Premium Audiovisual Experiences with HONOR Pad 8
The HONOR Pad 8 is an affordable all-round smart device catering to the productivity and entertainments needs of students and young professionals. The new HONOR tablet combines a 12-inch 2K HONOR FullView display featuring a screen-to-body ratio of 87%[2] and support a resolution of 2000x1200[3] pixels and 1 billion colors with eight built-in loudspeakers to deliver immersive multimedia experiences on the go. Running HONOR Magic UI 6.1 with Google Play Services, the HONOR Pad 8 packs a high capacity 7250 mAh[4] battery for all-day connectivity, allowing users to stay connected at all times.
The launch of the tablet represents the completion of the brand’s global product portfolio; consumers in select Europe and international markets will soon have access to every HONOR smartphone and IoT product series, marking a new milestone for HONOR.
Step into the Gateway to the Future
As a brand, HONOR has consistent investment in Spatial Audio, AI and AR technologies, to unlock immersive experiences and get ready for the next digital revolution.
Unveiled during HONOR’s IFA keynote session, Gateway to the Future is a new HONOR Talents initiative designed to enrich cultural heritage through the power of technology. In collaboration with ARLOOPA, HONOR challenged two renowned artists – Yunuene and Timo Helgert – to creatively reimagine the iconic Wasserschloss building located in Hamburg’s Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The AR experience is now live on-location in Speicherstadt, and is also available for users to view at home via the ARLOOPA app, offering smartphone users a new way to discover cultural treasures through immersive AR. The campaign video is available here:
HONOR Talents: Applications for Interactive AR Artwork Category Now Open
Complementing the initiative, HONOR has introduced a dedicated Interactive AR Artwork category as part of its HONOR Talents global design competition. Within the category, contestants are invited to produce digital AR artworks which creatively transform their neighborhoods, including digital overlays for buildings, walls, parks, and other public spaces, helping to get communities closer to culture. Artists interested in the contest can find more information here: https://www.hihonor.com/honor-talents/en/
HONOR also partnered with the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) in China to create a new AR artwork titled INFINITY. The phy-gital experience showcases an artistic interpretation of the universe, which the creative team comprising CAFA faculty members and students use as an analogy to promote intercultural dialogue. The art is available at HONOR’s IFA booth through the ARLOOPA app.
Global leading technology brand HONOR today announced the availability of its recently launched smartphone, HONOR Magic4 Pro in South Africa. Starting from today, users can buy HONOR Magic4 Pro 8+256GB variant via Vodacom and MTN at a price of ZAR 22999. The smartphone comes with a contract deal of R999 for 24 months with 1GB REDCORE and HONOR Earbuds 3 Pro as gift with Vodacom and via MTN with a contract deal of R999 for 24 moths which comes with Mega Talk and Gigs XS. Running on Android 11 and coming with pre-installed Google Mobile Services, users can download all Google applications with peace of mind and enjoy the immersive music on YouTube and Spotify. The revolutionary device was recently launched in Johannesburg by HONOR President Mr. Zhao Likhun through a breath-taking event.
Along with launching HONOR Magic4 Pro, HONOR also debuts HONOR Watch GS 3 with industry leading 8-Channel Heart Rate AI Engine that detects precise optical signals and HONOR Earbuds 3 Pro that delivers superior sound quality and comes with an industry first body temperature measuring capability.
“HONOR is committed to adopt a consumer-centric approach and develop best-in-class products for our users. The launch of HONOR Magic4 Pro, HONOR Watch GS 3 and HONOR Earbuds 3 Pro showcases unwavering commitment to providing all-scenario intelligent ecosystem strategy to create a new intelligent world for everyone in South Africa” Mr. Zhao Likun, President of HONOR Middle East and Africa
Cinematic Videography with Magic-Log Movie Master and IMAX Enhanced
Offering cinematic-level footage, the HONOR Magic4 Series features the HONOR Magic-Log Movie Master and AI Film Effects. With this, the HONOR Magic4 Series delivers the industry-first 10-bit Log 4K video recording in 60fps (frame per second), beating another industry benchmark.
Triple Camera with Ultra-Fusion Computational Photography
The HONOR Magic4 Pro pushes industry benchmarks with a powerful Triple Camera combination featuring a 50MP Wide Camera which packs a 1/1.56-inch color sensor, a 50MP 122o Ultra-Wide Camera, and an 64MP Periscope Telephoto Camera, all powered by best-in-class Ultra-Fusion Computational Photography which enables the device to produce high-definition images in stunning clarity. The lens supports up to 100x digital zoom as well as optical and electronic image stabilization, to clearly capture distant scenes.
Powerful 100W Wireless Charging
The HONOR Magic4 Pro is powered by an ultra-large 4600mAh battery featuring HONOR’s most powerful SuperCharge combination to deliver an ultra-long battery life and all-day connectivity. With 100W Wired HONOR SuperCharge, the HONOR Magic4 Pro juices up to a 100% charge in just 30 minutes. The HONOR Magic4 Pro is also the first to support 100W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge technology, which powers up the device to a 60% charge in just 15 minutes.
Enhanced Privacy and Security; Industry's First AI Privacy Call
Offering a groundbreaking new solution to sound-leaking, a common smartphone frustration for many, the HONOR Magic4 Pro debuts an all-new Privacy Calling feature supported by AI and powered by Directional Sound Technology, preventing sound leakage for more private phone calls.
Exceptional Gaming Experience with GPU Turbo X and Upgraded AI Visual Engine
HONOR is among the first smartphone manufacture to support groundbreaking AI Super Rendering technology on smartphones thanks to continuous upgrades of its GPU Turbo X technology. This produces remarkable results in power consumption and performance, enhancing the overall gaming experience on the HONOR Magic4 Series.
Industry’s First LTPO Display With 1920Hz PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Dimming
Perfect for those who spend long hours in front of the screen, the HONOR Magic4 Series delivers Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) of 1920Hz, the highest ever achieved in an LTPO screen, minimizing eye strain and providing a comfortable viewing experience, even in low light environments.
With the advent of mobile productivity and an increasing demand for high-performing laptops, users today need laptops that they can rely on with regards to performance, portability and value for money. Huawei has realized this pain point with consumers and constantly works on updating its product lineups with new devices to serve the purpose in every scenario, as part its commitment to provide users with innovative products, Huawei has introduced new devices into its laptop lineup that expands its range of options to strengthen its position as a user favourite.
The lineup packs in flagship laptops, such as the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro and its smaller variant, HUAWEI MateBook D14 or D15, . The series also offers all-round performers at a friendly price point with top value such as HUAWEI MateBook D series. This allows users from all walks of life to pick the right one based on their requirements and budgets.
Flagship Laptop on the remote office: MateBook X Pro
The top flagship segment consists of the HUAWEI MateBook X Pro. The top-of the line laptops combine extreme portability, immersive viewing and cutting edge performance that aim to give consumers an overall premium experience. These laptops epitomize the signature design and elegant craftsmanship that Huawei is reputed for with both laptops being extremely light-weight and ultra-thin, making it the perfect choice for professionals who demand power-on-the go. Both run on top-notch hardware with 10th generation Intel® Core™ i7 processors along with NVIDIA® GeForce® MX250 for optimum graphics. Putting it all together, the flagship laptops deliver a smooth experience in every scenario from graphic and video editing, to gaming and multimedia content consumption.
Valuable choice for students: MateBook D Series
Another category is the laptops with top value, which include the HUAWEI MateBook D series, which comes in two variants of HUAWEI MateBook D 14 with a 14-inch display and a larger HUAWEI MateBook D15, which comes with a 15.6-inch display and packs more storage. These value driven laptops is aimed primarily at students but also packs enough power to go through the day. Users have the option of choosing using an AMD Ryzen 3000 series processor with a Radeon Vega graphics card for striking visuals. Both configuration options are powerful enough for all daily tasks, along with web browsing, video playing and even entertainment needs. Keeping in mind all-day performance, the HUAWEI MateBook D series use a 65W Type-C charger that can also be used to charge up user’s smartphones. This laptop can support 10 hours’ office use, 9.5 hours video playback and even 9.4 hours for web page browsing. All of this at a friendlier price point, making innovative technologies accessible to more users.
Each laptop is Huawei’s lineup aims to provide users with the best solutions, be it the different types of user or even the scenarios they would be in. By providing all kinds of users with laptops that are designed specifically for them, Huawei has been able to cement its position as one of the go-to solution for laptops.
Price and Availability
All the MateBook Series could be purchased from Huawei online store, Vodacom, Telkom, Incredible Connection, Computer Mania and Hi store.
Earlier this week BMW announced the production version of its very first X7, this coming after months of teasing with images giving little detail on the vehicle. The X7 will be BMW's flagship offering in the X model line up, keeping in style with its new design language for the X models, the X7 bears the biggest BMW kidney grille to date and has been the controversial talking point for many after its announcement. BMW say that the X7 "is the first car to fuse the presence, exclusivity and spaciousness of a luxury model with the agile and versatile driving properties expected of a Sports Activity Vehicle" and it's quite evident from the design and images of the interior that this is aiming to take the thrown in it's segment as one of the best premium luxury SAV's in it's class. It will go head-to-head with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the Range Rover Vogue, not to mention Toyota's Land Cruiser 100 and the Lexus LX.
As mention before, the design of the X7 isn't sitting well with many on the internet, as following the release of the images and videos, a lot of negative comments have been coming in about the design being too "boxy", the large grilles are too big etc. Fair enough it won't be to everyones taste but I can't fault BMW on this one, it's very similar to the X7 Concept we saw not too long ago and the lines and edges on the car are breathtaking to me. Boxy? well of course it has to be, it seats 6 people in comfort so you can only give designers so much to work with, making the car visually appealing but still being practical, comfortable and spacious on the inside. The interior on the launch model epitomizes the luxury element that BMW is trying to achieve with the model. From the two-tone leather seats with nappa leather diamond pattern stitching, the light wood grain finishes and the glass gear selector just exudes luxury. In cabin ambient lighting it becoming quite popular with BMW of late, we've seen the various colour changing led strips tucked away in door panels and dashboard, and of recent in the speakers of the M5 but the the X7 launch images show some lighting built into the roof, a nice touch on this behemoth.
Back to the outside of the car, I quite like the bold look of the car, after all it is the biggest in the X Line up so it must look the part. The long elongated lights match up with the ones on the back and with the new laser light system give it character. The 3 air-intake vents, with the horizontal slats also adds to the front facing presence of this beast. Credit has to be given to the design team, being the first BMW of it's kind and to come up with the design so close to the concept isn't an easy feat. The added metal and chrome accents to the exterior really highlight the luxury feel to the X7 but as much as this car is nice to look at, BMW say it's just as good to drive. That's where it all comes down to, will it drive like the BMW's we're used to? Also BMW say that this will also have off road capabilities like the new X5, with a standard two-axle air suspension for increased comfort and increased ground clearance, as well as off road spec differential lock and underguard for the front.
The BMW X7 is expected in South Africa during March of next year and BMW have said that we will be only getting two models both of which feature diesel engines, the X7 xDrive30d and the M50d. Both of which are brilliant motors from the company and with the ever increasing price of fuel you can understand why the company is choosing to bring these specific engines down. I'm sure at launch they will re-investigate the possibility of bringing a petrol variant as well. Pricing is said to be in the R1,6 million mark for the xDrive 30d and R1.8million for the M50d.
KIA Motors has long being associated with making affordable quality cars for the medium to budget buyer but now they're changing their onset with the first glimpses of their new flagship luxury sedan. Aimed at taking on heavy weights in the sector like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the BMW 7 Series, KIA's new K900 will have to be really special if it's going to persuade buyers to opt for their model instead of the tried and trusted. Having driven a host of the latest offerings from KIA and also seeing their new Stinger GT in the news more than often, they certainly are making a statement that they're not here just to settle for the market they have. Most of their cars already boast technological additions at a standard of which you'd have to pay an arm and a leg with the German offerings, and their engines are pretty solid too, with offering great fuel economy, if there is one area they need to concentrate on for the K900, it's the quality of the finishes as well as added bells and whistles. With these high end luxury cars, there's always new toys and features that owners like to boast about and I feel KIA have the people in place to do so, I mean they already say it will have an analog clock developed exclusively by Swiss watch brand Maruice Lacroix. I must be honest though, I expected more from the design of the car, the front isn't too bad but the rear just seems plain and boring. Sketches of the interior look promising, with KIA opting for the minimalist look but more technology driven, it looks very similar to the BMW 7 Series though I'm hoping it will have more uniqueness about it. The all-new K900 will be manufactured in Kora and will go on sale across selected global markets from the second quarter of 2018. No word if it will be brought South Africa as yet.
Monday afternoon in Munich, Chinese mobile phone giants, Huawei unveiled their latest flagship smart phone, the Mate 10, along with the Mate 10 Pro and Porsche Design Mate 10 to the world's media. With Samsung and LG having gained the markets attention with their new smartphones, namely the Galaxy Note 8 and the V30, Huawei had to pull out something spectacular with the Mate 10 and unsurprisingly, they did. After launching the world's first smartphone SoC chipset, the Kirin 970 at IFA2017, that very same chipset will power the Mate 10. The chipset is essentially an octo-core processing unit which is split into two quad core processors. It has a combined output of 4.2GHz, but it's the AI abilities that shine through in it, with it being able to perform much faster than it's competitors. The AI capabilities don't stop there as it improves the camera and also be able to translate foreign languages without internet connectivity.
The design of the Huawei Mate 10 has changed compared to the Mate 9 with it being more rectangular and flat, almost like a P10 Plus, the edges seem to have a smooth bevel finish but the main talking point is the screen. Huawei have opted for the long screen trend which enables "FullView Display" which gives the device one of the best screen to body ratio on the market which Huawei was quick to point out at the launch with a direct comparison with the iPhone X. Moving to the rear of the phone, Huawei have continued with their long-term partnership with Leica, with the Mate 10 sticking with dual lens technology but lenses now are vertically aligned as apposed to horizontal like previous models. The lenses remain as 12 MP RGB and 20MP monochrome which fuse the picture to give a true colour output. Leica have also thrown in a dual ISP to the lens to enhance the picture. The Mate 10 is also rated IP67, which makes it dust and waterproof, so you can take that call, whether you're in the middle of the dessert or in a monsoon.
A strong aspect about the Mate series from Huawei undoubtedly the battery life, the Mate 10 series has a 400 mAh on board and can deliver 48 hours of life with normal use. That in this day and age is pretty impressive, given the chipset and display which we all know loves to kill the battery. The devices also come with fast charge technology, as seen on the P10 as pretty impressive, With this behemoth battery, 30 minutes of charging from 1% will give the the Mate 10 approximately 58% life. So far this phone seems the business and really set to rock the elite business smartphone market. It's due to land in SA later this year and by then hopefully we will have more info on it. It's nice to see Porsche Design come on again to design a special edition version fo the Mate 10, the Mate 9 Porsche Design was quite a hit and I'm personally eyeing the PD Mate 10 for my next phone.
A few weeks ago I received something rather cool in the post, Huawei sent me, what I feel is their flagship business phone to review, the Mate 8. Following from it's predecessors, the Mate 7 and Mate S, the 8 had a lot to live up to and after attending the launch in Joburg in April I was keen to put to see how the phone compared to my lifestyle. At the launch they spoke of how the phone was "the pinnacle of style" and I have to admit, everything from the box the actual phone comes in to the device itself, really looks on point. Generally with a phone of this nature, you would want to get a protective cover on it almost immediately but the phone looks so damn good you might be doing it an injustice by covering it up!
Quality
Even thought he market has become conducive to consumers changing their phones quite regularly, in most cases people don't even wait for their contracts to expire before they change their device, with the average person keeping their's for just over a year before they want a later model. Hence manufacturers had to keep up with the demand by releasing devices on a yearly basis. That doesn't mean they neglect the quality of their device, the Mate range has probably been the most robust series of phones I've tested. It can withstand most bumps and falls, I didn't deliberately test this but there was more than one occasion where the phone escaped the clutch of my butter fingers and it ended up with hardly a mark to show for it. So you know you're getting a premium product.
Display & Dimensions
The size is rather large compared to your normal phone (157.1 x 80.6 x 7.9mm) due to the display screen size (6.0inch) but it doesn't feel cumbersome in your hand. The new improved finger print scanner works perfectly for this phone allowing you to unlock the device in a matter of milliseconds and it can support more than one finger. The display is something to marvel at, with a 78% body to screen ratio and full HD picture courtesy of its IPS-NEO LCD with 16M colours, it makes anything you look at stunning. I watched a few videos on youtube in 4K and the quality was amazing. The protection comes in the form of Corning Gorilla Glass 4 which is still one of the best out there.
Camera
While I didn't expect this feature to be the star, it totally shone through and made me go crazy over it, so much so I ended up borrowing a tripod! Why you ask? Well with the Mate 8, Huawei launched their professional camera setting as well as a few others like Super Night shot and added a few favourites from their older models like light trails and slow mo video which is captured by the 16 MP lens with dual LED flash. The professional setting enables the user to manually select and choose the right settings given the conditions and light in the picture you wanting to take. While it may look cool, you also need to know what you're doing but if you have time to fool around with it you can figure out how to take some really awesome pictures which require no filter if you're going to post them to Instagram.
Another feature which I had to try was the Super Night shot, basically a long exposure shot which captures as much light in the dark as possible allowing you to photograph stars and if you're lucky, some of the Milkyway! Yup, it is possible but again, you got to know how to work the settings, from how much light you want to allow to how long you want to lens to capture for. It's not rocket science but it takes some fiddling to get used to and you can capture some stunning shots of the night sky from it.
Performance
Being a phone that is aimed at your business man, they don't muck about when it came to selecting processors and CPU's for the Mate 8. It comes with the HiSilicon Kirin 950 chipset with a Quad-core 2.3GHz Cortex-A72 + quad-core 1.8GHz Cortex A53. RAM differs from the model you have with the 32GB receiving 3GB RAM and the 64GB getting 4GB RAM. It has the latest version of Android's Marshmallow with the user interface completely customisable for your preference. Other features include acelerometer, gyro, proximity, barometer and compass.
Battery
Much was said about this phones battery, with a claim of 2 days of use without needing a charge and if you like me are constantly on your phone, I was keen to see how it will stand. It comes with a non-removable Li-Po 4000 mAh battery which can give you up to 528 hours on standby using 3G and up to 98 hours music play. My use is a mixture of using the camera, tons of social media apps such as Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram all of which are constantly receiving notifications and whats a phone without Whatsapp? oh and I did make a receive the odd phone call. Much to my disappointment the phone didn't last the full two days but I must say I was still left impressed because it lasted more than an entire day with me using it. Normally any other phone won't see 8 hours before I need to plug it in for a charge so this is a massive breakthrough in battery technology.
Verdict
If you're the type of person that runs their life from their phone, whether you're a suited up businessman or one that's constantly on the road, this is the perfect phone for you. Fast enough to deal with any app or document that it comes across as well as giving you a battery that lasts with you worrying about charging points or carrying battery boosters. The other features are just an added bonus for you to play around with when you have some spare time. The phone is available in four colours, Champagne Gold, Moonlight Silver, Space Gray and Mocha Brown, and the 64GB version will have a dual SIM option.
*all pictures taken by the Huawei Mate 8 are the original with no filters or editing done.
Last night saw the official launch of the Chinese mobile manufacturers flagship device, the P9 and along with it the P9 Plus and P9 lite and we were there to see what all the fuss was about.
The biggest talking point about the phone is the dual lens technology, hence the hashtag #OO. Developed in conjunction with leading camera lens manufacturer Leica, Huawei is the first mobile device to make use of two lenses. Now you may ask yourself why? Well as Clement Wong of Huawei told us last night, it isn't just there for show. One lens captures the full colour image whilst the other captures in black and white, it then overlays the two for the final product and the results are astonishing to say the least.
Clarity and true colours like you have never seen before. They take things further with the camera with allowing the user a full manual mode where you can edit settings just like a professional DSLR. To prove that the camera is that good, they gave it to world renowned professional fashion photographer Ayaad Damouni and his pictures speak for themselves.
Apart from a really great camera, the phone itself has lost alot of weight, it's much lighter than the P8 which made me wonder if it was in fact a full metal body but the build quality is still right up there as before. The phone is available in three finishes, all of high premium quality and 6 different colours.
The user interface is pretty much the same as any other of their devices and for me is one of the better adoptions of the Android OS. Very easy to use and just works well in general.
Battery life has been e better, not as great as the Mate 8 which claims to have a 2 day life span but let's hope the P9 has the same quick charge like it's bigger brother.
The launch itself was a true reflection on the device and what it had to offer. It really is a major competitor to the other brands out there and if market share is anything to go by, the other brands need to be worried.
While most of the techno geeks eyes and ears were cast on Apple Event last night, be it Apple fanboys or Android defenders, everyone attention was focused on what Tim Cook and his merry men had to say and show the world technology that others have already come up with but they only figured out now. Yes, Apple is undoubtedly one of the worlds largest technology company and responsible for most of the innovative devices that we use today on a daily basis but I think another event that happened last week should have warranted at least half the coverage that this got. Obviously marketing has a big role to play in this aspect and of course building up hype around it but the company that launched their new flagship model phone last week wants their product to speak for it self.
When we mention things that are made in China, our initial reaction would be, cheap, generic and of inferior quality. While Huawei's devices might be cheap, it's definitely not of inferior quality. In fact, some of the best quality phones I've had to test over the past year were Huawei's, I'm testing the P8 at this moment of which the review will be up soon, but even that, for the price it's offered is a steal if you take into account the specifications of the device. The build quality is excellent, their adoption of Android is probably the best I've seen on a manufacturer and usability is easy as they come. Huawei is attacking the market, and attacking it hard. Their eyes are firmly set to knocking off top competition which is Apple and Samsung.
They're so blunt in this regard, that at the launch they compared their product with the competition, that is the iPhone 6 Plus, I mean at the end of the day, that's what the consumer is going to do so why beat around the bush? In almost every aspect the CEO took the crowd through, why and how the Hauwei device is better. The MateS is has a number of key characteristics that makes it not only the flagship device for Huawei but also for all manufacturers to try and catch up or to better. While it isn't miles ahead in terms of innovations but it's the small things that they're doing that makes the device great.
Force touch was a big talking point, where by the more pressure you apply on the screen will trigger a different command on the phone. The screen is pressure sensitive, the developers were so bold with it that the phone also comes with a scale to measure the weight of small items. Don't try to stand on the phone though and I'm sure it will be a costly price to pay to replace this screen! That wasn't the deal breaker for me though, what I like about them is that they do the simple things right. Like the actual phone for example, it has a 5.5" AMOLED so naturally the phone would be large but they managed to keep the size to a minimum. The phone is housed in a full metal body but with a coarse finish that doesn't make it slippery. The phone also has a curved back that makes it sit comfortably in the palm of your hand.
They've improved on the finger scanner, not only is it faster but just requires a single touch to activate. They've also expanded on the use of the scanner, before it was just used for unlocking the device, now it can be used to scroll through pictures, take photos and many other things. Then theres the knuckle touch which the P8 also has but again, for the Mate S it has been improved. On the P8 you can only make square selections but on the Mate S you can do any shape that you like.
There's a whole lot more this phone can do than just a few party tricks and I can't wait to have one in my hands to test but for now I'll enjoy the P8 I've been given to play around with. Like I said earlier, Hauwei are coming to dominate and it you're not aware already, they slowly are, their products are reasonable priced, great quality and actually better than what the competitors have to offer. In my opinion its only a matter of time for them to succeed in their mission.
