The Pura X: Huawei’s Revolutionary Flip Phone with Harmony Intelligence AI Assistant
In a bold move, Huawei has launched a new flip phone that defies convention by opening sideways, offering a wider device with a tablet-esque aspect ratio. The Pura X is not only the first Huawei phone to ship without Android app compatibility but also debuts the company’s in-house AI assistant, Harmony Intelligence. This innovative device is a game-changer in the world of smartphones, and we’re excited to dive deeper into its features and implications.
A New Form Factor
The Pura X’s unique design is its most striking feature. When closed, it resembles a Samsung Galaxy Flip or Motorola Razr, with a palm-sized design and a square cover screen below its triple camera. However, when you flip it open, you’re greeted with a 6.3-inch display in a 16:10 aspect ratio, wider than other flip phones and closer to tablets in its proportions. This design seems to be a way of splitting the difference between flip phones and larger book-style foldables.
HarmonyOS Next and Harmony Intelligence
The Pura X is also the first Huawei phone to leave Android behind for good, running the new HarmonyOS Next instead. This operating system doesn’t use Android Open Source Project code and isn’t compatible with Android apps. HarmonyOS Next launched in November 2024 alongside the Mate 70 series, but owners of those phones were given a choice between Next or the Android-based HarmonyOS. The Pura X, on the other hand, is only available with the new software.
But what’s even more exciting is the inclusion of Harmony Intelligence, an AI assistant based on Huawei’s in-house Pangu model and enhanced by DeepSeek. This AI assistant is a significant development in the world of artificial intelligence, and its integration into the Pura X is a major selling point.
Nvidia’s CEO Acknowledges Huawei’s Growing Presence in AI
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently admitted that Huawei’s “presence in AI is growing every single year,” adding that “We can’t assume that they are not going to be a factor.” He also noted that US trade restrictions on the company have “done poorly,” calling Huawei “the single most formidable technology company in China.” These comments highlight the significance of Huawei’s advancements in AI and its potential impact on the industry.
Availability and Pricing
The Pura X is currently only available in China, where it starts at 7,499 yuan (around $1,037). Early teasers for the Pura X highlighting its wider aspect ratio gave the impression that it might be Huawei’s first commercial rollable phone. However, Lenovo has confirmed that its rollable laptop will go on sale this year, but the wait for a rolling phone continues.
Conclusion
The Pura X is a revolutionary device that challenges the status quo in the world of smartphones. Its unique design, HarmonyOS Next, and Harmony Intelligence AI assistant make it a compelling option for those looking for something new and innovative. While it’s currently only available in China, its impact on the industry is undeniable. As Huawei continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with AI and operating systems, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future.
Actionable Insights
- Keep an eye on Huawei’s advancements in AI and operating systems, as they may have significant implications for the industry.
- Consider the Pura X as a viable option if you’re looking for a unique and innovative smartphone experience.
- Follow Huawei’s progress in China and potentially other markets to see how the Pura X performs and what features are added or improved.
Summary
The Pura X is a groundbreaking flip phone that opens sideways, offering a wider device with a tablet-esque aspect ratio. It’s the first Huawei phone to ship without Android app compatibility and debuts the company’s in-house AI assistant, Harmony Intelligence. With its unique design, HarmonyOS Next, and Harmony Intelligence AI assistant, the Pura X is a game-changer in the world of smartphones.