Despite earlier rumours, the Huawei P30 Pro does not include 5G support.
Telecoms attended Huawei’s latest handset launch, where the company highlighted its strengths not only in smartphones but also in telecoms infrastructure.
Given that emphasis, it felt like Huawei might use that expertise to claim an early spot among 5G smartphone makers. However, the P30 Pro does not provide 5G connectivity.
This is not entirely unexpected: Huawei’s P series prioritizes camera innovation and imaging features over cutting-edge network support. The upcoming Mate 30 series, though, is widely expected to include 5G later this year.
“We are considering to put 5G on the next Mate series,” Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer Business, told CNET. “This autumn we’ll be ready for it on the Mate series.”
In Europe there is limited urgency to rush 5G handsets to market. Networks supporting 5G are only now beginning to go live, and it will take time before coverage is widespread, even if the Mate 30 adds 5G.
“In the European market, 5G will be mainly for next year I guess,” Yu added.
Huawei has technically announced its first 5G-capable device in the Mate X foldable phone, but that device lacks a firm release date and carries a premium price that will put it out of reach for many buyers.
Samsung, which was mentioned several times during Huawei’s presentation, has already announced a 5G version of the Galaxy S10. While Huawei’s decision to omit 5G from the P30 Pro is understandable given the P series’ focus, Samsung’s move highlights a missed opportunity for Huawei to showcase its telecoms expertise in a mass-market flagship.
Expect telecoms and tech press to scrutinise the Mate 30 launch to test any 5G capabilities Huawei does introduce.
Interested in hearing industry leaders discuss subjects like this? Attend events such as the IoT Tech Expo, Blockchain Expo, AI & Big Data Expo, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo, which run in locations including Silicon Valley, London, and Amsterdam.