Bucket Tech: HUAWEI nova 15 Max

South Africans have become experts at doing mental maths. Every trip to the petrol station comes with a moment of disbelief. The grocery bill somehow climbs higher despite the trolley looking suspiciously similar to last month's. Electricity, insurance, school fees, data, subscriptions. It often feels as though the cost of simply getting through the month keeps finding new ways to increase.

As South Africans become more selective about their technology purchases, devices such as the HUAWEI nova 15 Max are helping to redefine what value in a smartphone really means. Starting at R7 999, the smartphone combines an 8500mAh battery, durable construction, advanced photography features and a HUAWEI Added Value Pack worth up to R7 596, challenging the assumption that consumers need to spend more to get more from their devices.

As a result, consumers are becoming increasingly selective about where they spend their money. They're asking tougher questions, comparing options more carefully and looking beyond flashy marketing promises to understand what they're really getting for their hard-earned rand. Smartphones are no exception.

The era of paying more for less

Over the past few years, smartphone prices have steadily climbed. Rising component costs, larger memory configurations and increasingly sophisticated technology have all contributed to pushing prices upwards.Yet for many consumers, the experience hasn't always improved at the same pace. Nobody buys a smartphone because it has a particular chip or memory specification. They buy it because they want a device that lasts all day, takes great photos, survives everyday life and helps them stay connected.The challenge for manufacturers is finding ways to deliver those experiences without forcing consumers into premium price brackets.

The features people actually care about

Ask most smartphone users what frustrates them and the answers are surprisingly consistent. Battery life runs out too quickly. Phones are expensive to repair after a drop. Cameras perform brilliantly in perfect lighting but struggle when life happens after sunset. Screens can be difficult to see outdoors. These aren't glamorous problems, but they are the problems people experience every day. That's why practical innovation is becoming increasingly important. Rather than chasing specifications for their own sake, many consumers are prioritising features that make a noticeable difference to their daily lives.

Why battery life has become a value feature

As smartphones have become our cameras, GPS devices, entertainment hubs and communication centres, battery performance has become more important than ever. A larger battery doesn't just mean longer usage. It means fewer charging stops, less reliance on power banks, and more confidence when travelling, working remotely, or spending long days away from home.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max is a good example of this. Equipped with an 8500mAh HUAWEI Super Battery, it is designed to keep pace with modern lifestyles. Real-world testing shows it can support up to 23 hours of continuous video playback, while reverse charging allows the device to share power with compatible Huawei products when needed.

Getting more without spending more

The conversation around smartphone value is increasingly moving beyond price alone. Consumers still want excellent cameras, durable construction and immersive entertainment experiences. They simply want those features delivered in a way that feels accessible.

The HUAWEI nova 15 Max reflects that changing mindset. Its 50MP Ultra Vision Camera uses Huawei's advanced RYYB colour filter array to improve light intake by 40%, helping users capture brighter and more detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. AI Best Expression helps refine group photos, while the Extra-durable Body combines SGS Premium Performance Mark 5-Star Drop Resistance certification with IP65 dust and water resistance.

The device also features a 6.84-inch OLED Eye Comfort Display with up to 4000 nits of dynamic peak brightness, making it easier to enjoy content indoors and outdoors alike.

These are the kinds of features that directly influence everyday ownership rather than simply looking impressive on a specification sheet.

Value isn't just about the price tag

South Africans have become skilled at spotting the difference between something that is expensive and something that is valuable. Those are not always the same thing. The HUAWEI nova 15 Max arrives at a time when many consumers are actively reconsidering what value means.

Starting at R7 999, the HUAWEI nova 15 Max combines one of the largest batteries in its category, advanced photography capabilities, durable construction and immersive entertainment features in a package designed around real-world use.

Customers also receive a HUAWEI Added Value Pack worth up to R7 596, including Unlimited Screen Damage Protection and HUAWEI FreeBuds SE valued at R1 499 at selected retailers.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro

HUAWEI has unveiled the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro. This latest addition to its iconic Mate Series brings together advanced imaging, refined design, and powerful performance in a single flagship device. Inspired by the richness of the natural world, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is available in two distinctive colour finishes: Gold and Black. Starting from R21,999 or R839 per month over 36 months, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro will be available from 07 April 2026 via HUAWEI’s official online store and selected retailers.

Customers will benefit from a range of value-added offers, including premium accessories, service support, and 200GB of HUAWEI Mobile Cloud storage free for the first month, exclusive to the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro. Ts and Cs apply.

A Leap Forward in Colour Accuracy

The True-to-Colour Camera System of the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro addresses some of mobile photography’s biggest challenges, including accurate colour reproduction across varied lighting conditions, delivering consistent, true-to-life colours in any environment. Its larger pixel size significantly boosts light intake, ensuring precise colours and fine detail even in low-light scenarios. Colour consistency is maintained seamlessly when switching between the main, ultra-wide and telephoto lenses.

The new DCG HDR technology enhances dynamic range by up to 300%. In high-contrast scenes, such as backlit portraits or sunset landscapes, it preserves highlight detail and shadow colour without distortion. The 5cm telephoto macro capability adds versatility, enabling both detailed close-up shots and long-range photography, turning everyday moments into captivating images.

New Super Durable Architecture

Equipped with 2nd Generation Kunlun Glass, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro display features high-strength nanocrystals for enhanced durability. It offers up to 20x greater drop resistance than conventional glass, significantly reducing the risk of screen damage. The back panel is crafted from ultra-durable vegan fibre, offering a silky-smooth texture that feels refined and elegant in hand. Its impact resistance is enhanced by up to 5x, allowing the device to withstand daily bumps and scrapes while maintaining its pristine appearance. With IP68 water resistance and IP69 resistance to high-temperature, high-pressure water jets, along with a multi-layer sealing design, the device delivers comprehensive protection against water and dust intrusion.

Exceptional Performance

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro is powered by a massive 5750mAh battery, easily supporting all-day usage. It supports 100W wired SuperCharge and 80W wireless SuperCharge for fast and convenient charging. Featuring the SuperCool Dual Phase Change Heat Dissipation System, the device remains cooler during extended, demanding use. This ensures consistently smooth performance for tasks such as gaming, live streaming and creative work. With a 21% boost in overall system performance, the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro handles demanding tasks with ease, delivering smoother workflows and a consistently responsive experience without compromising power efficiency.

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro also features the X-True™ 2.5D Sleek Flat-Edged Display. With a 1–120 Hz LTPO adaptive refresh rate, it intelligently adjusts frame rates based on usage, delivering both fluid visuals and improved energy efficiency. The display reaches an ultra-high peak brightness of 3000 nits.

Availability and Offers

The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro will be available from 07 April 2026, with pricing starting from R21,999 or R839 per month over 36 months via HUAWEI’s official online store and selected retailers. At launch, customers can look forward to a range of value-added benefits, including the HUAWEI Band 10 and HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 2, a one-year HUAWEI Care+ plan, a screen protection service, and a charger and protective cover.

In addition, HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro users will be able to enjoy an exclusive 200GB HUAWEI Mobile Cloud storage subscription free for the first month, making it easy to securely back up photos, apps, and important files from day one.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI HUAWEI Innovative Product Launch

Huawei stepped confidently back into the professional running arena on February 26, unveiling the all-new HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 at its Now is Your Run global launch event in Madrid, Spain. Marking the brand’s return to elite running watches after five years, the launch signals a renewed focus on performance-driven innovation.

The event also introduced a line-up of flagship products, including the HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, HUAWEI MatePad Mini, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5, and the HUAWEI Band 11 Series.

Two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge was officially introduced as the global ambassador for HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner. “Running means much more than running fast," said Kipchoge. "I believe that running is the most beautiful activity on every level. Together with Huawei, we can reach millions of runners around the world and hopefully impact their lives in a beautiful and positive way.”

HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2

Equipped with a new 3D floating antenna architecture, the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 is engineered to deliver exceptional positioning accuracy. Powered by an intelligent positioning algorithm, it continues to calculate trajectory and distance even during temporary signal interruptions, helping runners maintain precise data in complex environments.

The new intelligent marathon mode offers comprehensive race management, acting like a personal coach on the wrist. Designed to support professional athletes in optimising performance, it also makes advanced running insights accessible to everyday runners seeking a smarter training experience.

At the event, Kipchoge shared his experience of collaborating with Huawei on product development. "I am passionate about sharing my opinions and perspectives to improve the smartwatch experience, not just for elite athletes but for runners all around the world," he said.

HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro

Huawei also marked a strong return to the global market with its Mate Series, showcasing the company’s continued technological leadership. The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro features an upgraded True-to-Color Camera system designed to deliver consistent colour accuracy across complex lighting environments and mixed colour temperatures.

Its refined Dual Space Ring Design blends classic elegance with contemporary aesthetics, drawing strong interest from attendees. With enhanced performance, 2nd Gen Kunlun Glass, and advanced AI capabilities, the Mate 80 Pro further strengthens Huawei’s premium smartphone offering.

HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 and HUAWEI Band 11 Series

Expanding its wearable portfolio, Huawei introduced new devices designed to deliver more personalised and professional fitness experiences.

The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 debuted in a striking new Green colourway, retaining its advanced diving and outdoor capabilities while introducing enhanced features tailored specifically for golf driving ranges and on-course play.

Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series combines sleek design with practical functionality, featuring a larger, clearer display that ensures excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. Integrating health monitoring, activity tracking, and convenient features into one compact device, it serves as a reliable companion for users' daily fitness needs.

HUAWEI MatePad Mini and HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5

Huawei also unveiled its first-ever Mini tablet, the HUAWEI MatePad Mini. With its compact 8.8-inch form factor, slimmer and lighter than traditional tablets, it fits easily into pockets and handbags. Whether reviewing documents, streaming content, or working on creative projects while travelling, the device is designed for productivity on the move. It serves as a versatile digital companion for professionals, readers, and researchers alike.

Completing the launch line-up, the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5 become the industry’s first wireless earbuds to feature dual-engine AI noise cancellation. Combined with a dual-drive acoustic system, they deliver powerful noise reduction while preserving vocal and instrumental clarity, creating an immersive listening experience.

Last year, Huawei introduced its brand proposition, Now is Yours, reflecting its commitment to building authentic connections with global consumers through a more inclusive and youthful voice. At the Now is Your Run launch event, the partnership with Eliud Kipchoge reinforced Huawei’s ambition to inspire movement and promote healthier lifestyles worldwide.

Looking ahead, Huawei will continue advancing fitness and health innovation, empowering more people to live active, connected, and healthier lives.

Bucket Tech: Huawei Pura 80 - Review

The ever growing mobile phone market gives the consumer a broad choice to choose from but it makes choosing which device is right for you a bit more difficult. So how does one go about doing this? You can study the devices on their website, looking at the specifications, you can compare these specs with phones that you are interested in and also take price into consideration. But what about the user interface and operational use of it? That can only be seen when the phone is in hand, one of the brands I get asked about a lot is Huawei. Ever since they were axed from the Trump administration from using US resources, their own development kicked in, this enabled them to create apps and software to substitute the use of Android and Google services. I've tested many Huawei devices post this sanction and one thing I can confirm, they have been getting better and better over time. I recently got to spend a few weeks with the Pura 80 device, here are my thoughts on it. 

DESIGN

The Huawei Pura 80 follows a refined and understated design philosophy that leans heavily into premium aesthetics. Its clean lines, symmetrical layout and elegant camera module give it a distinctly high-end appearance without feeling overly flashy. The frosted glass back not only looks sophisticated but also does a good job of resisting fingerprints, making the device feel clean and polished in daily use. While the phone is on the heavier side, the weight contributes to a solid, well-balanced feel in the hand rather than feeling cumbersome. For users who appreciate a modern, premium design that prioritises elegance over gimmicks, the Pura 80 delivers confidently.

BUILD QUALITY

Huawei’s reputation for excellent build quality is clearly evident in the Pura 80. The aluminium frame provides rigidity, while the front is protected by second-generation Kunlun Glass, offering enhanced resistance against drops and scratches. The device also boasts IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance, which is particularly relevant for South African conditions where dust, heat and occasional exposure to water are part of everyday life. Overall, the Pura 80 feels exceptionally well-constructed and durable, giving buyers peace of mind that the phone can withstand daily wear and tear over the long term.

SCREEN QUALITY

The Pura 80 features a high-quality OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, and it is one of the phone’s standout features. The screen delivers vibrant colours, deep blacks and excellent contrast, making everything from social media scrolling to video streaming a visually pleasing experience. The high refresh rate adds a noticeable smoothness to animations and interactions, enhancing both everyday usability and gaming. Brightness levels are strong enough for outdoor use, even under South Africa’s often harsh sunlight, and the display remains sharp and easy to read in most lighting conditions.

PERFORMANCE

In terms of performance, the Huawei Pura 80 offers a smooth and reliable experience for most users. Powered by Huawei’s Kirin chipset and paired with ample RAM, the device handles daily tasks such as multitasking, browsing and media consumption with ease. App launches are quick, and the interface remains responsive even during extended use. While it may not match the raw processing power of the very latest Snapdragon-based flagships, real-world performance remains strong and consistent. For the average user, performance never feels like a limitation, making the Pura 80 well-suited for both productivity and entertainment.

GAMING & GPU PERFORMANCE

Gaming on the Pura 80 is a solid experience thanks to its capable GPU and high refresh rate display. Popular mobile titles run smoothly at high settings, with stable frame rates and minimal stuttering. Extended gaming sessions do result in some warmth, but thermal management is well controlled, preventing uncomfortable overheating. While hardcore gamers chasing maximum benchmark scores may find more powerful alternatives elsewhere, the Pura 80 easily satisfies casual and intermediate mobile gamers.

CAMERA

Camera performance is one of the Huawei Pura 80’s strongest selling points. The main camera produces sharp, detailed images with excellent dynamic range and natural colour reproduction. Daylight photos are crisp and vibrant, while low-light shots benefit from Huawei’s advanced image processing, delivering impressive clarity with controlled noise. The inclusion of a telephoto and ultra-wide lens adds versatility, allowing users to capture a wide range of scenes. Portrait shots are particularly pleasing, with accurate subject separation and attractive background blur. Video recording is equally competent, offering stable and detailed footage suitable for social media and everyday content creation.

BATTERY LIFE

Battery life on the Pura 80 is excellent, thanks to its large capacity battery and Huawei’s efficient power optimisation. The phone comfortably lasts a full day of moderate to heavy use, and lighter users may even stretch it into a second day. Fast charging support ensures that downtime is minimal, allowing users to quickly top up the battery when needed. This makes the Pura 80 a reliable companion for long workdays, travel and users who are frequently away from charging points.

FINAL VERDICT

The Huawei Pura 80 is a polished and well-rounded smartphone that delivers a premium experience in almost every area that matters. It excels in design, build quality, display performance, camera capability and battery life, making it a strong contender in its segment. While the lack of Google Mobile Services may still be a consideration for some South African consumers, those willing to adapt will be rewarded with a durable, capable and refined device. Overall, the Pura 80 is a worthy purchase for buyers who value quality, reliability and excellent photography without needing the absolute highest-end performance.

PRICING

R18,999

SAMPLE PICS 

 

Bucket Tech: Huawei launches Service Giving Season 2025

Huawei has announced the launch of its annual HUAWEI Service Giving Season, running from November 2025 to 15 January 2026, offering customers across South Africa access to a range of value-added service benefits designed to support device longevity and enhance the ownership experience.

With consumers relying on their smartphones, wearables, tablets and laptops more than ever, the Service Giving Season provides timely, practical assistance that helps reduce repair pressure, extend device longevity and maintain day-to-day continuity. It forms part of Huawei’s broader focus on building trust through reliable after-sales support and creating value that endures long after a device has been unboxed.

The campaign will be available exclusively at HUAWEI Service Centres nationwide and will focus on practical, high-value services that ease repair concerns during a busy time of year.

Huawei South Africa says the initiative reflects the brand’s long-standing commitment to customer care. Service programmes of this nature play an essential role in supporting customers beyond the point of purchase, ensuring their devices remain dependable throughout their lifecycle.

Exclusive benefits available during the campaign

This year’s Service Giving Season will offer four key benefits aligned to real customer needs:

Labour-free repairs - Customers can access free labour on repairs for any Huawei device, including smartphones, wearables, tablets, and laptops, at participating Service Centres.

Free screen protector - Customers visiting a Service Centre will receive a complimentary screen protector, applicable to Huawei handsets and wearables only.

Festive gifts at select locations - To celebrate the season, Cornubia and Menlyn HUAWEI Service Centres will offer free surprise gifts to customers completing repairs during the campaign period.

Battery replacement support - Huawei will also continue to offer its affordable battery replacement programme, enabling customers to extend the lifespan of their devices at reduced cost.

These benefits are designed to provide customers with reliable support while creating a positive, stress-free service experience.

Enhanced convenience through flexible service options

Huawei’s service philosophy, “We Care, Your Care”, underpins the service. Customers visiting a HUAWEI Service Centre or using the mail-in repair option during the campaign will qualify for all applicable benefits, with free two-way shipping available for mail-in services.

For full details on participating locations and service coverage, customers can visit the official HUAWEI South Africa website or access information via the My HUAWEI app.

As the year draws to a close, Huawei encourages customers to make the most of a season designed to bring practical support when it matters most. With many people travelling, working remotely, capturing holiday moments, or preparing for the demands of a new year, device reliability becomes essential.

The Service Giving Season offers a convenient opportunity to refresh, repair or protect Huawei devices, ensuring they remain ready for everyday use, long-term performance and the year ahead.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI XMAGE Awards

The 2025 HUAWEI XMAGE Awards Ceremony and "The World, You and Me" Annual Imaging Exhibition was held this week at the Grand Palais in Paris. The event, jointly hosted with Paris Photo, one of the most world’s largest international art fairs dedicated to photography, drew attention from a host of accomplished creators, media, industry leaders, and photography enthusiasts.

Kevin Ho, CEO of Huawei Consumer Business Group, said of the event: " Through XMAGE, we can use the power of technology and images to better perceive the world, and more gently, to see one another."

Founded in 1997, the annual Paris Photo event regularly attracts over 100,000 attendees. This year's exhibition represents the third time (originally in 2018 and 2019) that Paris Photo and Huawei have collaborated to introduce mobile photography to the global art scene, and the first since the company unveiled its genre-defining XMAGE brand that signalled a meaningful shift from technical innovation to creative expression and storytelling.

This year's exhibition is based on the theme "The World, You and Me" and showcases the works of talented creators and how they are perceiving, recreating, and interpreting the world around them. It also plays host to three exhibition areas, titled "I Capture, Therefore I Am", " The Constructed, The Perceived", and "In Their Own Words." Each have been carefully curated to reflect the competition's emphasis on visual immersion.

All of the works on display delve into the idea of reimaging the relationship between individuals, their unique perspectives, and the visual worlds they inhabit. In addition to being one of the top photography exhibitions, the event is a major drawcard for leaders in global photography, providing the perfect backdrop for networking, relationship building, and idea sharing. This lends itself to the very ethos of Huawei XMAGE as it aims to serve as a global platform facilitating artistic exchange for all.

This year's competition attracted over 743,000 submissions from users in 78 countries/regions. The “XMAGE 100” showcases the competition’s most outstanding images, selected without traditional categories. From this group, three Grand Prize Winners of the Year were chosen. The works are shown below with the judging panel's comments (in no particular order).

According to Alex, CMO of Huawei Consumer Business Group: “Let’s continue to capture, share, and inspire the world through XMAGE.”

Ethereal Lines

Judges' comments: “Outstanding photographers are exploring uncharted territories of photography with high-end smartphones. The evolution of mobile technology is transforming the way we view the world. A premium smartphone has become a "spaceship" to infinite possibilities. This is a complex interplay of optics and algorithmic computation. Explorers move freely between the macro and micro worlds, transitioning from "seeing" to "insight." And thus, a fascinating unknown emerges in the most unexpected moments.”

New Life

Judges' comments: "This concise, straightforward photo shows the entire cycle of life, with the mother, the newborn calf, and the farmer who probably gave no thought to the uniqueness of this scene. It is the ordinary nature of this image that makes it so extraordinary. The photographer employs no special tricks, simply capturing an image of extraordinary depth and meaning as it occurs."

Origin of Skiing

Judges' comments:  "This picture captures the gaze present between two people who encounter each other. The child is standing on the snowy plain, but basking in the sun, dressed in traditional Altay clothing. The photographer shows remarkable restraint, not projecting their own feelings on to the image, but rather, letting the child's personality shine through."

Through these images and countless others, HUAWEI XMAGE is inspiring a paradigm shift in photography from "seeing" to "perceiving" our world, forging connection in unexpected places. Now that pictures are no longer images to be passively viewed, but rather, windows to what surrounds us, each touch of the shutter opens up a world of possibility.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Watch GT 6 Pro Editors Choice for 2025

The smartwatch is the biggest revolution to have happened for watches since the quartz movement. They went from single-purpose tools for telling time to more integrated personal devices, more powerful than early computers. Over the last few years, the smartwatch form factor has solidified its role as a health and fitness management tool. Arguably, the most annoying side effect of the smartwatch revolution was the shift from watch batteries that lasted months or even years to needing daily charging.

Huawei’s smartwatches were, however, way ahead of others in balancing innovative smart features with a battery life that would last up to two weeks. Now with the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro, they have outdone the previous record with up to 21 days of battery life. All this comes with even smarter health and fitness features. The combination of a sleek design, unmatched battery life, and advanced health and fitness features catapults the new watch to become the best smartwatch available in 2025.

Unmatched aesthetics

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro introduces a sleek raised bezel and a screen that's 5.5% larger. That seems like a tiny increase, but as the previous generation already had a fairly large screen, the bigger screen on the new generation now measures 1.47 inches. It can reach a peak brightness of 3000 nits, making it one of the brightest smartwatches available.

Crafted with sapphire glass, an aviation-grade titanium alloy body, and a nanocrystal ceramic rear cover, it boasts a classy appearance and is durable enough to withstand a beating. The GT 6 Pro comes only in 46 mm but offers three distinct colour options: the brown version with a brown composite woven strap, the silver version with a titanium strap, and the black version with a black fluroelastomer strap.

Up to 3 weeks of battery

Capable of lasting up to three weeks on a single charge, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro is definitely an outlier in the world of smartwatches. The watch features an advanced stacked battery, delivering 65% higher capacity than the previous model, and offers up to 21 days of battery life in light usage. And 40-hour battery life when using dual-band full constellation. However, the dual-band full constellation mode is typically only necessary when high-accuracy positioning is required, especially in challenging environments such as urban areas with tall buildings.

Advanced outdoor sports

Over a hundred workout modes are now standard for the HUAWEI WATCH GT Series watches. This time around, though, the watch goes beyond just workout tracking and becomes an active partner in your outdoor sports. The watch supports four different outdoor sports: cycling, trail running, golf, and skiing. The WATCH GT 6 Pro supports high-precision trail running with positioning tracks and other critical data, while golf mode is enhanced with new vector maps and interactive features.

For cycling, it introduces a virtual power feature, FTP (Functional Threshold Power), and virtual cadence data to create a comprehensive, pro-level system. FTP is a measure of the highest average power that a cyclist can sustain for about an hour without fatiguing.

The watch helps trail runners figure out every twist and turn of their path, thanks to an accurate positioning system, altitude trend chart, and real-time grade analysis. You can sync route data seamlessly from your phone to the watch with a single tap, and enjoy smart route sorting for instant access to your favourite routes. The all-new grade-adjusted pace feature converts uphill or downhill paces into an equivalent flat-road pace, helping you manage your effort like a pro.

Multi-dimensional emotional well-being

On the health front, powered by the new TruSense system, the series offers more nuanced and intuitive emotional health management. Multidimensional emotion detection offers comprehensive health analytics and cardiovascular health monitoring, ensuring comprehensive care for your body and mind, day and night. Beyond that, it provides precise insights into your physical and emotional state, while offering tailored features to help manage and improve your well-being. Compared to the previous generation's three, the new watch analyses 12 distinct emotional states.

Yet another reason to pick the GT 6 Pro is its cross-platform compatibility. Not only does the watch work seamlessly with Huawei smartphones, but iOS and Android users can also enjoy the advanced health and fitness features of the watch. For anyone who values performance without compromise, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro sets the gold standard.

Available now from R169 per month over 36 months or from R4,999 at selected retailers nationwide.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Innovative Product Launch 2025

Last week Friday in Paris saw HUAWEI launch the latest model in their Watch GT Series as well as other products part of their Innovative Product launch. The Watch GT 6 Pro is a perfect blend of Sport, Health and lifestyle wearable that looks stylish but packs more features than most of the smart watches available on the market. HUAWEI always marketed this particular model as "Fashion Forward" highlighting that while the competition might have their own devices on the market, they don't really fit into everyday wearables whiles the HUAWEI Watch GT can look great whether you're training or at a black tie event. At the Innovative Product Launch event in Paris under the banner of "Ride the Wind," unveiling a new line up of products including its next-gen HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series, HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2, and HUAWEI WATCH D2, combining high-fashion aesthetics with advanced health and fitness monitoring. Other exciting announcements included the debut of the HUAWEI nova 14 Series, HUAWEI FreeBuds 7i, and HUAWEI MatePad 12 X. 

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series embodies the "Ride the Wind" philosophy, blending fashion with athletic performance. With a ground-up engineering overhaul, the smartwatch delivers an impressive 21-day battery life and pinpoint outdoor positioning, powered by the all-new HUAWEI TruSense System for all-round, fast, and accurate health tracking metrics.

Building on a library of over 100 workout modes, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series introduces substantial upgrades to four essential outdoor activities: cycling, trail running, golf, and skiing. The new Cycling mode introduces a virtual power meter, providing professional-grade performance analytics without the need for a pro-level power meter, and unlocks a more advanced cycling experience. The Trail running mode gains next-level features, such as pinpoint positioning, altitude trend charts, and real-time grade analysis. Meanwhile, the upgraded Golf mode comes with a host of high-level features, including high-definition fairway maps.

HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 and WATCH D2: Breakthroughs in Professional Fitness and Health Monitoring

The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 debuts as the industry's first smartwatch rated for 150-meter diving with audio functionality. Its groundbreaking sonar-based underwater communication enables underwater watch-to-watch messaging up to 30 metres and a one-touch SOS up to 60 metres, delivering more efficient underwater communication and greater peace of mind to deep-sea explorers.

The latest iteration of the HUAWEI WATCH D2 comes in a dazzling new Blue colour and supports more comprehensive blood pressure monitoring features, including single reminders and recurring reminders. Combined with individual measurements and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, these features create a robust and versatile system designed to meet the diverse needs of users for effective blood pressure management.

HUAWEI nova 14 Series: Reimagined Professional Portraiture with Ultra Chroma Camera

The HUAWEI nova 14 Series reimagines mobile portraiture with a pioneering Ultra Chroma Camera and a new and improved XD Portrait Engine, producing portraits of exceptional depth and texture. It excels in challenging low-light environments, such as live music venues, rendering scenes with stunning clarity and nuanced detail. The 50 MP front camera supports auto-focus Portrait Dual Camera and a special 5x portrait zoom, delivering remarkable selfie capabilities. There is also a wealth of groundbreaking AI photo editing features, including AI Best Expression and AI Remove, which place a professional editing suite at users' fingertips, ensuring that each shot shines through and is blemish-free.

HUAWEI MatePad 12 X and M-Pencil Pro: A New Era of Paperless Learning and Creativity

The newly unveiled HUAWEI MatePad 12 X PaperMatte Edition tablet comes equipped with an ultra-clear PaperMatte Display designed for visual comfort. The MatePad works seamlessly with the HUAWEI M-Pencil Pro stylus, which supports handy features like one-pinch in-app radial menu pop-ups, one-tap HUAWEI Notes access, and seamless twist-to-switch brush adjustments.

Huawei also announced the official kick-off of the GoPaint Worldwide Creating Activity 2025. GoPaint 2025 will continue with its four signature categories: Narrative Art, Digital Watercolour & Ink, Sci-Fi Art, and Cutting-edge Painting, while introducing a new category, Animation. The initiative encourages creators worldwide to embrace their imagination and express it through digital art.

Now is Yours: Huawei Deepens Dialogue with Young Consumers

Another highlight of the event was the debut of Huawei’s new vibrant brand position, "Now is Yours." Representing its commitment to engage more closely with a new generation of global consumers, “Now is Yours” is underpinned by openness and inclusivity, aiming to create cultural and emotional resonance through technology that is both innovative and human.

Looking to the future, Huawei reaffirms its commitment to championing youth culture and utilising innovation as a universal language. By designing technology with greater warmth and empathy, Huawei aims to synchronise its rhythm with the global community, embarking on a shared journey into a future of infinite possibilities.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI New Device Launch

Launched this last week, in Dubai under the theme "Fashion Next," Huawei unveiled a range of new products including the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series and the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5. Further, it was officially announced that XMAGE will return to the Grand Palais in Paris this year, where it will host the "The World, You and Me" XMAGE Awards Ceremony and Annual Exhibition at Paris Photo 2025. The event was a true showcase of Huawei's technological expertise and a testament to its brand philosophy: enriching lives by seamlessly blending innovative technology with human-centric design.

HUAWEI Pura 80 Series is Defining the Future of Mobile Imaging

As the imaging flagship of the HUAWEI Pura Series, the HUAWEI Pura 80 lineup immediately captured the spotlight with its pioneering aesthetics and definitive imaging capabilities.

The HUAWEI Pura 80 Pro and Ultra versions are equipped with a 1-inch Ultra Lighting HDR camera. Paired with the pixel-level colour calibration of the Ultra Chroma Camera, it delivers exceptional clarity with remarkably accurate colour reproduction. Notably, the HUAWEI Pura 80 Ultra introduces the industry-first Switchable Dual Telephoto Camera, combining a large sensor with a dual telephoto lens for unprecedented versatility in capturing stunningly clear shots at any distance. Additionally, the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series harmonises eastern and western aesthetics, melding the elegant hues inspired by monochrome glaze with superior craftsmanship to form a signature glazed texture design.

HUAWEI MatePad 11.5

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 is designed for both ambitious learners and professionals stepping into the workforce. The new MatePad 11.5 delivers a generational step forward in user experience with its stunning and expansive 11.5-inch HUAWEI FullView Display, boasting 2.5K resolution and the acclaimed PaperMatte Display with natural light-like technology for eye comfort. The ultra-thin 6.1 mm frame houses a robust 10,100 mAh battery ensuring it blends portability with endurance. Additionally, the HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd generation) introduces magnetic wireless charging. The tablet comes with the upgraded HUAWEI Notes and the GoPaint app, empowering users to excel in their work, study, creativity, and play - like never before.

XMAGE Awards 2025 Announced

At the event, Huawei formally announced the 2025 iteration of the widely acclaimed XMAGE Awards, for which global submissions opened on June 11. These annual awards, now in their 8th consecutive year, has become one of the world's largest and most influential photography competitions providing a platform for Huawei mobile users worldwide to showcase their talent. This year’s competition features eight categories: So Far So Close, Colour & Shade, Good Night, Faces, A Heartwarming World, Experimental Lab, Storyboard, and Action.

A new competition format, XMAGE 100, has also been introduced along with a more diverse and distinguished judging panel. Submissions will be evaluated across multiple categories, including photographic technique, emotional resonance, social relevance, and artistic merit, aiming to bring the creative visions of everyday users to a global audience.

In 2025, Huawei is returning to the Grand Palais to host the "The World, You and Me" XMAGE Awards 2025 Ceremony and Annual Exhibition at the 2025 Paris Photo fair. With the culmination of the awards ending at the the Grand Palais, Huawei will once again bring home its focus on art while celebrating the photography artform in what is widely known as the centre of the world’s art scene.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Watch FIT 4 Series now in SA

Huawei today confirmed the availability of its latest smartwatch lineup, the new HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series, offering premium materials, improved health tracking, and pro-level sports modes in an ultra-stylish, everyday wearable. This fourth-generation release builds on the success of the popular WATCH FIT Series and steps confidently into a space typically dominated by higher-priced competitors, thanks to its aluminium and sapphire finishes, durable build, and intelligent tech.

Designed to fit your life

The new HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series includes both the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 and the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro. Both models feature a contemporary square face design, a rotating crown, and clean, minimalist lines that blend function with fashion. The FIT 4 weighs just 27g and measures 9.5mm thin, with a sleek glass and aluminium frame. The FIT 4 Pro, slightly more rugged, features sapphire glass, a titanium alloy bezel, and an aviation-grade aluminium body. At 30.4g and only 9.3mm thick, it balances elegance with endurance.

Brighter screens, better visibility

Each model comes equipped with a large 1.82-inch AMOLED display, supported by Huawei’s Hybrid AMOLED technology. The FIT 4 provides up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness, while the FIT 4 Pro pushes it further with 3,000 nits, ideal for bright, outdoor conditions and high-glare settings.

Outdoor-ready with upgraded positioning

For the first time in the series, both models now include a built-in air pressure sensor for better elevation awareness, plus Huawei’s upgraded Sunflower Positioning System for enhanced GPS precision, particularly important for runners, hikers, and outdoor athletes. Water sports enthusiasts also benefit from the debut of route tracking for aquatic activities, expanding training metrics to cover performance on and in the water.

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro

Pro-level features for active users

The FIT 4 Pro offers a suite of advanced sport modes tailored to high-performance lifestyles. These include:

• Advanced Terrain Map Tracking with offline routes and real-time alerts
• Golf Course and Driving Range Modes with GPS mapping
• Diving Mode supporting up to 40m depth, with Freediving and Training options
• Trail Running Mode optimised for elevation and route accuracy

HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4

Smarter health tracking, day and night

Health tracking also sees a major upgrade across the series. New features include HRV (Heart Rate Variability) monitoring during sleep, all-day HRV tracking, and enhanced sleep insights (available via OTA updates). The integrated Emotional Wellbeing Assistant uses bio-signals to interpret mood shifts and provide real-time stress feedback. The FIT 4 Pro also includes temperature-based menstrual and ovulation predictions, offering personalised and data-driven support for women’s health.

Powerful battery performance

Battery life remains a major highlight. The FIT 4 delivers up to 7 days of usage in typical scenarios (up to 10 days max), and charges fully in just 75 minutes. The FIT 4 Pro does the same in only 60 minutes, making both devices ideal companions for everyday and extended use alike.

A bold contender in the wearable market

With its balance of fashion-first design, advanced functionality, and strong battery performance, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series offers exceptional value at launch. It’s a smart choice for users who want real insight, high performance, and serious personal style without the premium price tag.

Available immediately, the FIT 4 Series comes in black, purple, white, and grey from R2 999.00, OR add it to your Vodacom, Telkom or CellC plan from only R99 per month over 36 months. T’s & C’s apply.

And the FIT 4 Pro is available in an iconic green, black and blue from R4 999.00, OR add it to your Vodacom, Telkom or CellC plan from only R149 per month over 36 months. T’s & C’s apply.

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Innovative Product Launch 2025

The all-new HUAWEI WATCH 5 introduces trailblazing innovations that herald an era of intelligent interaction. A key highlight is the significantly enhanced HUAWEI TruSense™ System, which now integrates the new Multi-sensing X-TAP Technology, powered by a Distributed Sensor Module. This advanced system allows users to perform health monitoring with fingertip measurements effortlessly, ensuring accurate, faster, and comprehensive health insights. Additionally, gesture control has been upgraded to support "Double Slide" and "Double Tap", providing users with more intuitive interaction. The HUAWEI WATCH 5 also debuts in exclusive Purple and Sand Gold colours, introducing a palette that speaks to quiet luxury and bold individuality.

With HUAWEI WATCH 5, the future of wearable tech gets personal — sharper insights, smarter design, and health features that work harder. HUAWEI WATCH 5 will be available in South Africa from the 2nd of June through Huawei's online platforms only, and in selected retailers from the beginning of July, at a starting recommended retail price of R9 999.00

New flagship products unveiled in a fusion of technology and aesthetics

Alongside the HUAWEI WATCH 5, Huawei introduced several other flagship products, including the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series, HUAWEI FreeBuds 6, and the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch.

The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series stays true to its signature square watch face and ‘Fashion Active' philosophy, promoting an energetic, health-conscious lifestyle. Featuring an ultra-slim and lightweight design for comfort, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro measures just 9.3 mm in thickness. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro supports pro-level outdoor sports, including trail running, dive-depth of up to 40 meters, and golf course mode, enhanced by the HUAWEI TruSense System for comprehensive and smarter health management.

The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series will be available in South Africa on Huawei's online platform from the 2nd of June 2025, retailing at R2 999.00. Or from selected authorised Huawei retailers starting from R99.00 per month, over 36 months. You will be able to purchase the HUAWEI Fit 4 Pro from R4 999.00 on Huawei's online platform or at a starting price of R149.00 per month over 36 months at selected authorised Huawei retailers.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 are Huawei’s first open-fit earbuds to feature dual-magnetic driver units. Equipped with Stable & Clear Calls Noise Cancellation technology and a refined, sleek droplet design, these earbuds deliver a seamless and immersive audio experience.

Arrival date and pricing of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 to be confirmed.

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 incorporates an inventive Tandem OLED PaperMatte Display, significantly boosting screen brightness while enhancing its anti-glare and anti-reflection capabilities. Paired with the Huawei Glide Keyboard and an upgraded HUAWEI Notes application, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 is built to transform how you work, create and stay organised.  Creativity also gets a boost with the new 3D Oil Painting Brush, which replicates the rich layering of oils, watercolours, and acrylics, and an Animation feature that turns layers into sequential frames for smooth, natural motion.

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 will be available in South Africa towards the end of July, pricing to be confirmed.

Active Rings inspire a new way to enjoy every moment of active living

Tapping into the global shift toward mindful movement and fitness, Huawei has evolved its “Light Up Your Rings” campaign into “Active Rings”, centred around the philosophy of “Enjoy Your Moment”. With more than 100 sport modes integrated across its wearable range, Huawei empowers users of all ages and fitness levels to stay active and embrace health in ways that suit their individual lifestyles.

According to IDC's latest report, Huawei ranked first globally in year-over-year growth for wearable device shipments in 2024 and has maintained the top position in the Chinese market share for six consecutive years.

With a distinctive mix of health tech and fashion-forward design, Huawei Wearables are shaping global health trends and have become a statement of personal style worldwide. 

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI TruSense

Huawei today announced the latest upgrade to its pioneering health and fitness innovation, the HUAWEI TruSense System, now enhanced with the new Distributed Super-Sensing Module. This advancement represents a major leap forward in science-based, precise, and comprehensive health management solutions, setting a new industry benchmark following the HUAWEI TruSense System’s successful debut in 2024.

With these upgrades, the enhanced HUAWEI TruSense System now integrates fingertip detection capabilities with multimodal signal fusion, extending its monitoring reach from the wrist to the fingertip, an industry-first aimed at improving accuracy. It also combines wrist and fingertip detection, enabling rapid and accurate measurement. This breakthrough upgrade was developed to meet the growing global demand for more proactive, real-time health management.

Latest innovations ensure Huawei continues to lead wearables industry

     

Huawei entered the health and fitness business 12 years ago and continues to lead the global market. IDC's latest data places Huawei in the number one global rank in wrist-worn shipments for year-on-year growth. Notably, Huawei ranks first in shipments in the global wrist-worn market below US$700 (excluding tax) and has been ranked first in smartwatch shipments in the Chinese market for six consecutive years.

Globally consumers are more health-conscious than ever before, driving demand for convenient, comprehensive, and accurate monitoring capabilities. Huawei's response to this demand is a system that integrates all of the company's latest advances in vital sign monitoring. With the 2024 launch of the HUAWEI TruSense System, the company is driving a new shift in digital health & fitness that's defined by six key characteristics: accurate, all-around, fast, flexible, open, and iterable.

HUAWEI TruSense measures more than 60 health and fitness indicators, covering six of the body's major health systems, including circulatory, respiratory, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, and muscular. Amongst the indicators is an emotional well-being component, which debuted in the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and the HUAWEI WATCH D2. Sensors monitor the user's heart rate and autonomic nervous system data and then feed this data to an algorithm that assesses the user's emotional well-being and stress levels - helping users enjoy the benefits of a healthy body and a healthy mind.

All-new Distributed Super-Sensing Module

The latest update to the TruSense System is a pioneering new Distributed Super-Sensing Module, combining wrist-based and fingertip sensing to deliver significantly enhanced health insights. The module utilises optic, electric, acoustic, and mechanical signals, integrating these multi-modal inputs to dramatically improve the accuracy, speed, and comprehensiveness of health monitoring.

The newly announced Distributed Super-Sensing Module builds on last year’s Super-Sensing Module, which professional institutions have already recognised for its accuracy in monitoring key health indicators such as blood oxygen, heart rate, blood pressure risk evaluation, and more. Huawei has overcome previous space limitations resulting from space constraints at the bottom of the watch, so it can now monitor different parts of the human body. It has deployed more powerful and diverse sensors in a distributed manner.

A significant feature of the upgrade is that it enhances sensing capabilities by coordinating data collection from both the wrist and other human body parts, for example, the fingertips. With the fingertip’s naturally dense vascular structure and thinner skin surface, interference from melanin and hair is significantly reduced, offering a unique edge in certain scenarios, particularly cardiovascular monitoring. By using these additional physiological data points, the system captures richer signals across more scenarios, delivering faster, more precise, and more comprehensive health insights.

As a result of the upgrade, blood oxygen measurement speed has seen a significant improvement, now capable of detecting changes in real-time, marking another substantial step forward in response time. The comprehensive health snapshot feature, Health Glance, now assesses over 10 vital indicators in just 60 seconds. This rapid assessment includes three newly added health metrics for users, namely Heart Rate Variability (HRV), emotional well-being, and ovarian function assessment, delivering a more complete, timely, and user-centric health monitoring experience.