Huawei Introduces the Pura X Foldable with HarmonyOS 5
Huawei has launched the Pura X, a new foldable smartphone designed to challenge industry giants Apple and Google. The device is priced at 7,499 Chinese yuan ($1,037) and is the first to feature HarmonyOS 5, Huawei’s self-developed operating system. With this move, Huawei is strengthening its position in the smartphone market and aiming for complete independence from Google’s Android.
A Unique Design That Stands Out
The Pura X comes with a distinctive foldable design. When unfolded, it features a 6.3-inch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio. This offers a wider screen area compared to most smartphones. When folded, the device transforms into a compact square with a 3.5-inch display at the front, accompanied by a camera. This innovative form factor makes it both stylish and practical.
The First Smartphone with HarmonyOS 5
The Pura X is the first smartphone to run HarmonyOS 5, the latest version of Huawei’s operating system. Initially introduced as HarmonyOS Next in November, it reportedly eliminates reliance on Google’s Android open-source code. This marks a major milestone for Huawei, as the company aims to develop an independent ecosystem for its users.
Huawei has been working on HarmonyOS since 2019, when U.S. sanctions cut off its access to Google services. By launching a device powered solely by its own software, the company is making a strong statement about its ability to innovate without external dependencies.
How Pura X Strengthens Huawei’s Market Position
Huawei’s smartphone business has seen a resurgence since the end of 2023. The company has been launching unique devices, including a trifold smartphone, to set itself apart from competitors. The Pura X further demonstrates Huawei’s ambition to lead in foldable technology.
The company’s market share in China grew from 13.7% in Q4 2023 to 16.2% in Q4 2024, according to the International Data Corporation. In contrast, Apple’s share declined from 20% to 17.4%. This shift highlights how the brand is gaining traction among Chinese consumers while Apple faces increasing competition.
A New AI Assistant to Enhance User Experience
The Pura X also features Huawei’s AI assistant, Xiaoyi. This AI is powered by Huawei’s own models and those from DeepSeek, offering an advanced smart assistant experience. With AI integration becoming essential in modern smartphones, Xiaoyi is expected to enhance user interaction and provide smart functionalities tailored to individual needs.
Why This Launch Matters
The Pura X launch is significant for several reasons:
- It strengthens Huawei’s position in the foldable phone market.
- It reinforces its independence from Google by running HarmonyOS 5.
- It provides consumers with an alternative to Apple and Android devices.
For the company loyalists and tech enthusiasts, this device represents a bold step toward a new smartphone ecosystem free from U.S. restrictions. The combination of an innovative design, AI features, and a self-developed operating system makes the Pura X an important release in the industry.
Final Thoughts
Huawei is making waves with the Pura X, showing that it is not just surviving but thriving. The foldable design, HarmonyOS 5, and AI-powered features create a compelling device for users looking for something different from the usual Apple and Android options.
As the company continues to push boundaries, it remains to be seen how global consumers will respond to its latest innovation. Will HarmonyOS become a true competitor to iOS and Android? Only time will tell, but the Pura X is a step in that direction.
