Huawei has launched its new Mate 70 series in China, building on the success of last year’s Mate 60 range. The series was introduced during a keynote in Shenzhen hosted by Huawei’s CEO, Richard Yu. The event highlighted significant upgrades to Huawei’s flagship smartphones, demonstrating the brand’s continued focus on innovation despite global challenges.
Four impressive variants for every user
The Mate 70 series includes four models: the Mate 70, Mate 70 Pro, Mate 70 Pro+, and the Mate 70 RS Ultimate Design. Each model caters to a different audience, from casual users to those seeking the height of luxury in smartphone design.
The base Mate 70 and its Pro counterpart offer solid features, with a 6.7-inch and 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display. Both screens support refresh rates from 1 to 120Hz, making them perfect for fluid scrolling and gaming. The Pro version boasts 3D facial recognition for added security, an upgrade from the standard model’s simpler facial unlock feature.
If you want premium options, the Pro+ and RS Ultimate Design combine a basalt titanium-based body with a stronger Kunlun Glass cover. These variants also house a larger 5,700mAh battery than the 5,500mAh battery in the Mate 70 and Mate 70 Pro, ensuring extended usage.
Cutting-edge cameras and AI
Huawei continues to excel in smartphone photography, and the Mate 70 series is no exception. The Pro and Pro+ models share an impressive camera setup, featuring a 50MP main sensor, a 40MP ultrawide lens, and a 48MP telephoto lens. These cameras include advanced RYYB sensors and a spectral imaging sensor that captures detailed colours and improves accuracy.
For those who prefer the base model, the Mate 70 retains a similar imaging setup but offers a simpler 12MP telephoto camera. Huawei’s XMAGE software enhances photos and videos, tailoring images to East Asian aesthetic preferences with lush greens and clear skin tones.
Video creators will appreciate the AI-powered features that deliver better noise reduction, improved dynamic range, and more vibrant colours. Huawei claims a 100% improvement in noise reduction and a 146% increase in real-time HDR capabilities.
Pricing, availability, and more
The Mate 70 series runs on Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4.3, with plans for future updates to HarmonyOS Next. Although Huawei hasn’t confirmed the exact chipset powering these phones, speculation suggests the new Kirin 9020 processor may be onboard.
Here’s the starting price list for the Mate 70 series in China:
- Mate 70 (12GB RAM, 512GB storage): CNY5,999 (~S$1,111)
- Mate 70 Pro (12GB RAM, 512GB storage): CNY6,999 (~S$1,296)
- Mate 70 Pro+ (16GB RAM, 512GB storage): CNY8,499 (~S$1,574)
- Mate 70 RS Ultimate Design (16GB RAM, 512GB storage): CNY11,999 (~S$2,222)
All models offer 1TB versions for users needing extra storage. Pre-orders are live, and delivery begins on December 4. However, Huawei has yet to reveal plans for a global release, leaving international buyers in suspense.