Huawei’s Diverse Ventures: From Foldable Smartphones to Rural Digitization and Legal Battles
In a series of recent developments, Huawei has made headlines across multiple fronts, showcasing its expansive reach and influence in technology and beyond. From unveiling the innovative Pura X foldable smartphone to collaborating on rural digitization projects in Zambia, and navigating legal challenges in China, Huawei continues to push boundaries. Additionally, the company has made significant strides in the enterprise backup and recovery software market, while also facing scrutiny over lobbying practices in Europe.
Innovations in Mobile Technology
Huawei has recently launched the Pura X, a foldable smartphone that marks a new chapter in its mobile technology offerings. Unveiled in China, the Pura X features a unique 16:10 aspect ratio, differentiating it from other foldable devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 6. The device is powered by a Kirin chipset, with options ranging from the Kirin 9020 to the 9010, and boasts a 6.3-inch inner display with a resolution of 2,120 × 1,320px and a refresh rate of 1-120Hz. The outer 3.5-inch display is square-shaped with a 980 x 980 resolution, and the phone is equipped with a robust camera system including a 50MP main shooter, a 40MP ultra-wide sensor, and an 8MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom. The Pura X also supports a 4,720mAh battery with fast charging capabilities and is rated IPX8 for water resistance. Available in China with prices starting at RMB 7,500 for the base model, it remains to be seen if the device will reach international markets like South Africa (Huawei Unveils The Brand New Pura X Foldable In China – Stuff South Africa).
Further solidifying its position in the smartphone market, Huawei’s CEO, Richard Yu, hinted at the upcoming launch of another tablet-like foldable device, expected to be part of the Pura series. This device, with a 6.28-inch folding panel and a 3.48-inch cover display, promises to challenge existing standards in the foldable market (Huawei CEO not-so-accidentally reveals the new tablet-like foldable – GSMArena.com news).
Strategic Partnerships and Software Integration
Huawei’s ambitions extend beyond smartphones, as evidenced by its strategic partnership with BMW to integrate Huawei’s HarmonyOS NEXT into the Neue Klasse electric vehicles produced in China. This move is part of BMW’s broader strategy to align with China’s tech ecosystem, where a significant portion of its users rely on Huawei devices. While the Neue Klasse models for global markets will continue to run BMW’s iDrive X based on Android Automotive OS, the China-specific models will leverage HarmonyOS NEXT to enhance in-car digital experiences and connectivity (BMW Teams Up with Huawei: Neue Klasse in China to Run HarmonyOS).
The launch of the Pura X also marks the debut of HarmonyOS 5, Huawei’s latest self-developed operating system, which no longer relies on Google’s Android code. This development is crucial for Huawei as it seeks to create a viable alternative to Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS, especially in the wake of U.S. sanctions that have limited its access to certain technologies (Huawei’s $1,000 foldable will run self-developed HarmonyOS 5 as it pushes Apple, Google alternative).
Enterprise Solutions and Customer Recognition
In the enterprise sector, Huawei has been recognized as a Customers’ Choice in the 2025 Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Enterprise Backup and Recovery Software Solutions. This accolade is based on a 99% willingness to recommend score from 155 reviews of Huawei’s OceanProtect Data Protection solution as of November 2024. This recognition underscores Huawei’s commitment to providing robust data protection solutions across various industries, including finance, manufacturing, and healthcare (Huawei Named a Customers’ Choice in 2025 Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer).
Global Impact and Social Initiatives
Huawei’s efforts to promote digital inclusion were highlighted at MWC Barcelona 2025, where it showcased its Smart Village project in Zambia. Collaborating with Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science, Huawei launched its first smart village site in Muchila, providing essential services like electricity and internet access to improve education and healthcare. This initiative aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and aims to equip rural communities with digital skills necessary for the fourth industrial revolution (Huawei collaborated with Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science to promote rural digitization).
Legal and Ethical Challenges
Amidst its technological advancements, Huawei has faced legal challenges in China. The company has filed a lawsuit against a Chinese car influencer, Racing Frappuccino, for criticizing its Maextro S800 luxury sedan. The influencer accused Huawei of manipulating a promotional video to unfairly compare the S800 to the Mercedes Maybach S680. In response, Huawei is seeking damages of 140,000 USD, while the influencer plans to countersue for 340,000 USD. This legal battle highlights the tensions between Huawei and critics in its home market (Huawei sues Chinese influencer over Maextro S800 luxury sedan criticism).
Additionally, Huawei has been embroiled in a bribery scandal in Europe. The European Parliament is investigating potential misconduct involving Huawei and several MEPs and their assistants. The scandal has led to the sealing of offices and the suspension of staff, raising questions about Huawei’s lobbying practices in Brussels (Huawei bribery scandal: What we know so far).
Conclusion
Huawei’s recent activities reflect its multifaceted approach to technology and business. From launching innovative foldable smartphones and integrating its HarmonyOS into vehicles, to receiving accolades for its enterprise solutions and promoting digital inclusion in rural areas, Huawei continues to expand its global footprint. However, the company also faces significant legal and ethical challenges that could impact its reputation and operations. As Huawei navigates these diverse arenas, its actions will be closely watched by consumers, competitors, and regulators alike.
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