Huawei is preparing to introduce its latest foldable smartphone, the Pocket 3, in an upcoming launch event next week. While the company has yet to confirm the official name, Huawei’s CEO Richard Yu has teased the arrival of an “unexpected product.” What makes this announcement particularly exciting is that the Pocket 3 is set to be the first device to run on HarmonyOS Next, Huawei’s proprietary operating system that completely eliminates Android dependencies. This marks a significant milestone in Huawei’s long-term goal of creating a self-sufficient software ecosystem, free from reliance on Google services.
The Pocket 3 is expected to bring notable improvements over its predecessor, both in terms of design and functionality. Reliable leaks from Digital Chat Station suggest that the inner foldable display will measure 6.28 inches, featuring a unique 3:2 aspect ratio. This makes it slightly different from traditional clamshell foldables, as the wider aspect ratio offers a more tablet-like experience when unfolded. This shift in design suggests Huawei is exploring new ways to enhance usability and productivity on compact foldable devices.
On the outside, the Pocket 3 is rumored to feature a 3.48-inch cover screen—larger than the typical secondary displays found on competing clamshell foldables. This expanded cover display is likely aimed at improving usability for quick tasks, notifications, and possibly even full app interactions without the need to open the phone.
When it comes to photography, the Pocket 3 is expected to feature a high-resolution 50MP main camera. While further details on the camera system remain unclear, Huawei has consistently delivered advanced imaging technology in its smartphones, so users can anticipate strong performance in both standard and AI-enhanced photography modes.
Additionally, early reports indicate that the Pocket 3 will include some degree of water and dust resistance—an important step forward in durability for foldable devices. While the exact IP rating has yet to be confirmed, this would make the Pocket 3 more resilient to everyday wear and tear compared to its predecessors.
Security-wise, the device is said to come with a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, seamlessly integrated into the power button for quick and easy authentication. This approach is commonly seen in foldable phones, offering a practical alternative to under-display fingerprint sensors, which can sometimes be less effective on flexible screens.
One of the more intriguing aspects of the Pocket 3’s design is its form factor. When fully opened, the device is reportedly reminiscent of a smaller iPad mini, hinting at a more immersive user experience. This suggests Huawei is continuing to refine the foldable smartphone concept, moving beyond the standard book-style or clamshell designs to create something that offers more versatility for users.
Perhaps the most groundbreaking aspect of the Pocket 3 is its software. With HarmonyOS Next at its core, the device will operate entirely independent of Android, marking a significant shift in Huawei’s mobile strategy. For years, Huawei has been working on building its own software ecosystem, and HarmonyOS Next represents the company’s biggest step yet toward achieving complete software autonomy.
This version of HarmonyOS will reportedly no longer support Android apps, requiring developers to adapt their applications specifically for Huawei’s ecosystem. While this presents challenges, it also signals the start of a fully integrated, Android-free future for Huawei devices.
Huawei is expected to officially unveil the Pocket 3 in just a few days, with more details on pricing, availability, and software features to be revealed during the launch event. As the company continues to push the boundaries of foldable smartphone technology, the Pocket 3 could play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of mobile devices.
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