Huawei Mate Xs 2

Overview & Display

The Huawei Mate Xs 2 presents a striking design with a foldable form factor, weighing in at 255g. Its unfolded dimensions of 156.5 x 139.3 x 5.4 mm give way to a compact 156.5 x 75.5 x 11.1 mm when folded. The star of the show is undoubtedly the expansive 7.8-inch foldable OLED display, boasting a resolution of 2200 x 2480 pixels and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. When folded, a 6.5-inch OLED cover display provides convenient access to notifications and essential functions. Multimedia experiences on the Huawei Mate Xs 2 promise to be immersive, with vibrant colors and high resolution, enhanced by stereo speakers.

Powering the device is a Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 4G chipset, paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, ensuring responsive performance. Storage options include 256GB, 512GB configurations using fast UFS technology. The operating system varies by region, with EMUI 12 available internationally and HarmonyOS 2.0 in China. While it lacks Google Play Services, the powerful processor and ample RAM should handle daily multitasking and demanding applications with ease. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor provides secure and convenient unlocking. The AnTuTu score of 641608 suggests strong overall performance capabilities.

Camera & Battery

The Huawei Mate Xs 2 features a versatile triple-camera system on the rear, headlined by a 50MP wide lens with PDAF. A telephoto lens offers 3x optical zoom, while a 13MP ultrawide lens expands the field of view to 120 degrees. Video recording capabilities extend to 4K resolution at 30/60fps, and 1080p at 240fps, suggesting a capacity for capturing detailed and smooth footage. The inclusion of features like Laser AF and HDR further enhances the photographic experience. A 10.7MP front-facing camera allows for high-resolution selfies, also capable of recording 4K video.

Battery life is a crucial factor, and the Huawei Mate Xs 2 offers a substantial 4600mAh (with 8GB RAM) or 4880mAh (with 12GB RAM) battery. The device supports 66W wired charging, promising quick top-ups, and also offers 5W reverse wired charging to share power with other devices. The endurance rating of 49 hours suggests a dependable battery for moderate daily use. With its robust camera system and efficient power management, the Huawei Mate Xs 2 aims to provide a comprehensive mobile experience.

Who Should Buy This

The Huawei Mate Xs 2 is ideal for tech enthusiasts and early adopters who appreciate innovative designs and expansive displays. It’s well-suited for users who frequently consume multimedia content, multitask heavily, or desire a unique and premium mobile experience. However, those reliant on Google Play Services or seeking a more traditional smartphone form factor might want to consider alternative options. The device targets a segment that values cutting-edge technology and a distinctive aesthetic over mainstream features.

Pros

• Expansive 7.8-inch foldable OLED display
• Powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 4G processor
• Versatile triple-camera system with optical zoom
• Supports 66W fast wired charging
• Stereo speakers for enhanced audio

Cons

• Lacks Google Play Services (International version)
• Foldable design may be less durable than traditional phones
• Shared SIM slot for Nano Memory card
• No 3.5mm headphone jack
• Weight of 255g might feel heavy to some

Verdict

The Huawei Mate Xs 2 delivers a compelling foldable experience with its impressive display and powerful performance. While the lack of Google Play Services in some regions is a consideration, the device’s strengths lie in its innovative design, capable camera system, and fast charging capabilities. The foldable form factor offers a unique way to consume content and multitask, though the device's weight might be noticeable. Overall, the Huawei Mate Xs 2 is a premium device for those seeking a distinctive and high-performance smartphone.