Huawei Australia has reportedly confirmed its foldable phone will release in Australia before year end, despite strained US-China tensions and the launch of its new Mate 30 without Google Android apps.
[Samsung Galaxy Fold]
Whilst an official release date is yet to be revealed, the handset is expected to occupy the premium market – despite the potential absence of a full-fat Android experience.
The loss of Huawei’s Android license sees its new Mate 30 smartphone series lack YouTube, Gmail and Google Maps, plus the Google Play Store.
Whilst the Chinese giant has allowed users to unlock the phone bootloader (a reversal of its former stance) and access Google services, some commentators claim it won’t appeal to the average mass consumer.
Samsung’s Galaxy Fold is also tipped to launch before year end, with a rumoured cost of ~A$3,000.
The device was first unveiled in April, but pulled back after early reviewers experienced significant display problems.
The new Mate X foldable phone is tipped to feature a similar high-tech camera set-up as the Mate 30 (e.g. 40MP wide angle), however, may forgo a ‘selfie’ camera.
Fellow Chinese smartphone manufacturer, Xiaomi, is also rumoured to be launching a foldable phone soon, the new ‘Mi Mix Alpha’, following a teaser promo graphic.
The news comes after Xiaomi surprised market watchers by landing retail space in Australian JB Hi-Fi stores.
