Huawei’s Pura X Flip Phone: A Bold Step Into the Future of Smartphones

On March 20, 2025, Huawei unveiled its latest innovation, the Pura X flip phone, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey to redefine smartphone design and functionality. The event, covered by Dominic Preston, a seasoned tech journalist with over a decade of experience, highlighted Huawei’s commitment to pushing boundaries despite ongoing challenges, including US trade restrictions.

The Pura X stands out with its unique sideways-opening design, a departure from the traditional vertical flip seen in competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Flip or Motorola Razr. When unfolded, the phone boasts a 6.3-inch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, offering a wider, tablet-like experience. When closed, it features a sleek square cover screen and a triple-camera setup, blending style with practicality.

One of the most talked-about aspects of the Pura X is its operating system. The phone is the first to run HarmonyOS Next, Huawei’s new OS that completely breaks away from the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). Unlike the Mate 70 series, which offered a choice between HarmonyOS Next and Android-based HarmonyOS, the Pura X ships exclusively with HarmonyOS Next. This move underscores Huawei’s determination to build its own ecosystem, free from reliance on Android.

Adding to its cutting-edge features, the Pura X introduces Harmony Intelligence, an AI assistant powered by Huawei’s in-house Pangu model and enhanced by DeepSeek. This AI integration is a testament to Huawei’s growing prowess in artificial intelligence, further supported by its development of Ascend AI chips.

The tech industry has taken notice of Huawei’s advancements. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang praised the company’s growing influence in AI, stating, “Huawei’s presence in AI is growing every single year. We can’t assume that they are not going to be a factor.” Huang also criticized US trade restrictions, calling them ineffective and labeling Huawei as “the single most formidable technology company in China.”

For now, the Pura X is available only in China, with a starting price of 7,499 yuan (approximately $1,037). While early teasers hinted at a rollable phone design, the Pura X is not a rollable device. However, Lenovo has confirmed that its rollable laptop will hit the market in 2025, keeping the excitement alive for flexible tech innovations.

The Pura X represents more than just a new smartphone; it’s a statement of Huawei’s resilience and ambition. By introducing HarmonyOS Next and Harmony Intelligence, Huawei is carving out its own path in the tech world, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in AI and smartphone innovation.

As we look to the future, the Pura X serves as a reminder that innovation thrives even in the face of adversity. With its bold design and groundbreaking features, Huawei’s latest offering is a glimpse into what’s possible when creativity meets determination.

Notable Quote:
Jensen Huang (Nvidia CEO): “US trade restrictions on Huawei have done poorly. Huawei is the single most formidable technology company in China.”

The Pura X is not just a phone; it’s a symbol of Huawei’s relentless drive to innovate and lead in an ever-evolving tech landscape.