The Huawei Pura80 series is rumored to feature side-mounted fingerprint unlocking: upgraded imaging system to be the biggest highlight

The Huawei Pura80 series is rumored to feature side-mounted fingerprint unlocking: upgraded imaging system to be the biggest highlightCurrent smartphone unlocking methods primarily include facial recognition, ultrasonic fingerprint scanning, and under-display fingerprint scanning (UDFS), with 3D facial recognition and side-mounted fingerprint unlocking being relatively niche. Recently, the unlocking method of the Huawei Pura80 series has sparked discussion

The Huawei Pura80 series is rumored to feature side-mounted fingerprint unlocking: upgraded imaging system to be the biggest highlight

Current smartphone unlocking methods primarily include facial recognition, ultrasonic fingerprint scanning, and under-display fingerprint scanning (UDFS), with 3D facial recognition and side-mounted fingerprint unlocking being relatively niche. Recently, the unlocking method of the Huawei Pura80 series has sparked discussion. While rumors initially suggested a self-developed ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, insiders now indicate that the series will likely adopt a side-mounted capacitive fingerprint sensor from Goodix, deviating from market expectations.

This information is considered highly reliable, given the insider's experience in the industry. Currently, due to the discontinuation of ultra-thin optical UDFS technology, manufacturers primarily focus on UDFS and ultrasonic fingerprint solutions. Compared to UDFS, side-mounted fingerprint unlocking, while technologically "less advanced," offers a potentially superior user experience, particularly on large-screen phones. UDFS, typically located at the bottom of the screen, can be inconvenient, while side-mounted scanners provide faster unlocking.

However, the Huawei Mate70 series also uses side-mounted fingerprint unlocking, but except for the standard version, other versions include 3D structured light facial recognition. Due to positioning differences, equipping the Pura80 series with 3D structured light might create competition with the Mate series, potentially impacting sales. Therefore, the Pura80 series is expected to feature side-mounted fingerprint unlocking and 2D facial recognition as standard. Although the Huawei Mate70 series has made some interactive improvements to its side-mounted fingerprint unlocking, the actual experience enhancement is not significant, so hopes are high for more innovative improvements in the Pura80 series.

While the unlocking method might seem conservative, the upgraded imaging system in the Huawei Pura80 series is highly anticipated. It's rumored to feature OmniVision's top-tier OV50X sensor, boasting a 1-inch oversized sensor and LOFIC technology. It may also utilize continuous optical zoom technology, adjusting lens position and angle to achieve various focal lengths and magnifications, ensuring all zoom levels are optical. Furthermore, an innovative four-lens group technology is expected to further enhance imaging performance, reduce the thickness and size of the camera module, and minimize its horizontal footprint.

In terms of core specifications, the Huawei Pura80 series is projected to be powered by the Kirin 9030 processor. With ongoing advancements in Kirin processor technology, performance is expected to improve further in the first half of next year, possibly with derivative versions released. This will positively impact the adoption of Kirin processor phones. Combined with the pre-installed HarmonyOS, the Pura80 series should offer smoother operation of HarmonyOS applications, avoiding lags and delays. Notably, the Kirin 9020 processor already supports 5G-A technology, making the network performance of the Pura80 series another point of anticipation.

The screen is expected to be a flat display for the standard Huawei Pura80, while the Pro and Ultra versions might feature a gently curved display, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate, high-frequency PWM dimming, and high brightness for optimal display quality. Additionally, the series is expected to feature full-function NFC, infrared remote control, dual speakers, an X-axis linear motor, IP68/69 dust and water resistance, and satellite communication capabilities.

The Huawei Pura80 series is anticipated to launch in May next year with HarmonyOS NEXT pre-installed. While the side-mounted fingerprint unlock might be a slight disappointment, the overall upgrades in the imaging system, processor, screen, and other features still generate high expectations. Its final performance remains to be seen.

In short, while the Huawei Pura80 series' choice of unlocking method isn't cutting-edge, its improvements in imaging, processing power, and other features are noteworthy. This trade-off might be a strategic decision by Huawei based on market positioning and cost control. While side-mounted fingerprint unlocking may not satisfy all users, its other strengths might compensate for this. Whether it gains market acceptance depends on its actual performance. The market will ultimately decide whether the practicality of side-mounted fingerprint unlocking outweighs the technological appeal of under-display solutions. Whether Huawei continues to explore more advanced unlocking technologies in future products is also a point of interest. The launch of the Huawei Pura80 series will undoubtedly reignite industry discussion on smartphone unlocking methods and technological advancements.

Despite the conservative choice in unlocking technology, the Huawei Pura80 series is not lacking in competitiveness. Its rich feature set, powerful imaging system, and advanced processor show Huawei's commitment to delivering a comprehensively capable and high-performance flagship phone. Ultimately, consumer choice will determine the market acceptance of the side-mounted fingerprint unlocking solution. Huawei may be attempting a more pragmatic approach, balancing technological innovation with market demands.

The launch of the Huawei Pura80 series is not just the unveiling of a new phone but also represents a strategic adjustment by Huawei in the smartphone market. The adoption of side-mounted fingerprint unlocking might signify Huawei's focus on practical user experience rather than chasing high-end technological gimmicks. This pragmatic approach could be a key factor in maintaining Huawei's competitive edge in the future. We look forward to the official launch of the Huawei Pura80 series and its market performance. This is not only relevant to Huawei's own development but also to the future direction of the entire mobile phone industry.