Huawei Mate X2

The Huawei Mate X2 represents Huawei’s evolution in the foldable smartphone segment, refining upon its previous designs and incorporating new innovations. Here’s an in-depth review of the Huawei Mate X2:

Overview:

Launched in 2021, the Huawei Mate X2 is a premium foldable smartphone that showcases Huawei’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology in the mobile industry.

Features:

Operating System: Shipped with EMUI 11.0 based on Android 10, but without Google services due to the US trade ban.
Display: When unfolded, it features an 8-inch OLED main display with a resolution of 2200 x 2480 pixels. There’s also an external 6.45-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1160 x 2700 pixels.
Processor: Kirin 9000 5G.
Memory: Options of 8 GB RAM with 256/512 GB internal storage.
Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 50 MP primary sensor, 12 MP periscope telephoto lens, 8 MP telephoto lens, and a 16 MP ultrawide lens. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 55W fast charging.
Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and a unique inward-folding design.

Pros:

Innovative Design: The Mate X2 offers a large tablet-like display when unfolded, providing a vast canvas for multimedia consumption and productivity. The inward-folding design protects the main display.
Performance: Powered by the Kirin 9000 5G chipset, the device offers top-tier performance suitable for all tasks and applications.
Camera Capabilities: Huawei is known for its camera prowess, and the Mate X2 is no exception. The quad-camera setup offers versatility and high-quality image capture.
Build Quality: The device feels premium with its combination of metal and glass, and the hinge mechanism is robust.
Fast Charging: The 55W fast charging ensures rapid battery top-ups.

Cons:

Lack of Google Services: Due to the US trade ban, the Mate X2 doesn’t come with Google services, which might be a deal-breaker for many users outside of China.
Price: Being a premium foldable device, the Mate X2 comes with a high price tag.
Weight and Size: The device is relatively heavy and might be cumbersome for some users.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In the foldable market, the Huawei Mate X2 faced competition from:

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2: Samsung’s second iteration of its foldable device, offering a refined design, larger external display, and top-tier specifications.
Xiaomi Mix Fold: Xiaomi’s entry into the foldable market with a large 8.01-inch internal display and a unique liquid lens in its camera setup.
Oppo Find N: Oppo’s take on the foldable design with a slightly different form factor and display size.

Launch Date:

The Huawei Mate X2 was announced in February 2021.

Common Issues/Problems:

Software Ecosystem: The lack of Google services means users have to rely on Huawei’s AppGallery or third-party app stores, which might not have all the apps that users are accustomed to.
Durability Concerns: As with all foldable devices, there are concerns about the long-term durability of the hinge and the main display.
Availability and Service: Given the trade restrictions and Huawei’s position in various markets, the device might not be readily available everywhere, and after-sales service could be a concern in certain regions.

Conclusion:

The Huawei Mate X2 is a testament to Huawei’s innovation and capabilities in the smartphone market. With its impressive display, top-tier performance, and standout camera features, it offers a compelling package for those interested in the foldable experience. While there are challenges, primarily due to the lack of Google services and the premium price point, the Mate X2 stands as a showcase of what’s possible in the realm of smartphone design. For those who prioritize innovation, a large display, and a unique user experience, and can navigate the software ecosystem challenges, the Mate X2 is a strong contender in the foldable market.