Pura 70 series by Huawei
Independent analysis has uncovered that Huawei Technologies Co.’s latest smartphones are equipped with a version of the advanced made-in-China processor revealed last year. The consultancy TechInsights discovered that the Pura 70 series, unveiled by Huawei last week, features the Kirin 9010 processor. This processor represents a newer iteration of the Kirin 9000s, previously manufactured by Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. for the Mate 60 Pro. The use of this 7-nanometer chip has raised concerns among officials in Washington who believed such technology was beyond China’s capabilities.
Huawei has experienced a revival since the debut of the Mate series in August, capitalizing on the recognition of its advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities despite increasing US technology export restrictions. However, US officials are currently considering further sanctions aimed at isolating the company and curtailing China’s semiconductor ambitions on a broader scale.
TechInsights, in collaboration with Bloomberg News, was the first to identify the original 9000s processor. Now, they’ve reported with “high confidence” that the Pura series contains a Huawei Kirin 9010 chip manufactured using SMIC’s 7nm N+2 process, an improved version of standard 7nm manufacturing.
Previously known as the P series, the Pura line has typically been popular due to its impressive camera features. Introducing a new option for domestic users could increase competition for the iPhone, especially considering the next iPhone upgrade isn’t expected until September.
For Huawei, this development marks another stride in the journey to reconstruct its consumer business, which was heavily impacted by sanctions during the Trump administration. In the first quarter, Huawei’s market share in China was roughly equivalent to that of Apple Inc., highlighting how it has gradually diminished the iPhone maker’s domestic market dominance over the past few months.
Huawei Technologies is prominently featured at this week’s event with two large booths. Additionally, at least seven Chinese automakers are showcasing Huawei’s Qiankun, acclaimed as the most advanced driving assistance system (ADAS) to date, installed in their vehicles.
Furthermore, Germany’s Volkswagen plans to equip its China-manufactured Audi Q6L e-tron, set for launch in 2025, with Qiankun. This marks Huawei’s first deal with a foreign automaker, according to two sources familiar with the matter, as reported by Reuters.
