Following the successful release of the Huawei Pocket 2 in February 2024, anticipation is growing for its successor, the Huawei Pocket 3. Recent leaks from a reliable source, tipster Smart Pikachu, suggest that the next-generation flip phone could be unveiled soon. While official details remain under wraps, the leaks offer a glimpse into the launch timeline and some early information about this much-anticipated device.
Huawei Pocket 3: Rumored Launch Timeline
The Huawei Pocket 3 is expected to debut in China shortly after the Chinese Spring Festival, placing its launch within the first quarter of this year. This timing aligns with Huawei’s past release patterns, making the Pocket 3 a likely February or March announcement. Alongside the new flip phone, Huawei is rumored to introduce a compact tablet, though the specifics of the tablet, including its name and features, remain undisclosed.
If these rumors hold true, Huawei could be gearing up for an exciting start to the year, targeting consumers with innovative products in the foldable smartphone and tablet categories.
What the Leaks Reveal
According to the leak, the Huawei Pocket 3 will be available in two versions. While the exact differences between these variants are unclear, the choice to offer multiple options suggests Huawei’s intent to cater to a broader audience, potentially varying in hardware specifications or design.
The third-generation Pocket series device is rumored to feature a thinner, lighter, and more compact design compared to its predecessor. This refinement would make the Pocket 3 even more portable and appealing to users who prioritize sleek and lightweight devices. Unfortunately, details about the core specifications, such as its chipset, display size, or camera capabilities, are yet to emerge.
Huawei’s efforts to create a thinner and smaller flip phone indicate its focus on enhancing usability while maintaining the high-quality build and functionality that the Pocket series is known for.
Competition in the Foldable Market
As the foldable smartphone market continues to expand, the Huawei Pocket 3 will face stiff competition in China. Rivals like the Xiaomi Mix Flip 2, Honor Magic V Flip 2, and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 are also expected to make their debuts this year.
The Mix Flip 2 and Magic V Flip 2 are rumored to launch in the second quarter, while Samsung’s latest Z Flip iteration could arrive by July. With such fierce competition, Huawei will likely aim to differentiate the Pocket 3 through unique features, superior build quality, or competitive pricing.
A Look Back at the Huawei Pocket 2
To better understand what the Pocket 3 might bring to the table, it’s worth revisiting the key features of the Huawei Pocket 2. The previous generation came equipped with a 6.94-inch OLED LTPO foldable display, boasting a resolution of 1.5K and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It also featured a secondary 1.15-inch OLED LTPO screen on the exterior, adding functionality and convenience for quick notifications and basic tasks.
The Pocket 2’s camera setup was one of its standout features, including a 10.7-megapixel front camera and a versatile quad-camera system on the back. The rear cameras comprised a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens, an 8-megapixel telephoto lens, and a 2-megapixel spectral sensor. This array offered impressive versatility for photography enthusiasts, catering to a wide range of shooting scenarios.
Under the hood, the Pocket 2 was powered by a Kirin chipset and packed a 4,520mAh battery, supporting 66W wired charging and 40W wireless charging. Other notable features included up to 16GB of RAM, a massive 1TB of storage, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and even satellite messaging capabilities, making it a feature-rich device.
What to Expect from the Huawei Pocket 3
While specifics about the Pocket 3 are scarce, it is reasonable to expect that Huawei will build upon the strengths of the Pocket 2. The third-generation flip phone could feature an upgraded processor, improved camera technology, and enhanced battery performance. With foldable devices becoming increasingly competitive, Huawei might also focus on innovations like better crease management, superior hinge durability, and a more seamless user experience.
If the Pocket 3 retains or improves upon the satellite messaging feature and high-speed charging capabilities of its predecessor, it could become a compelling choice for users seeking a premium flip phone experience. Additionally, the rumored slimmer and lighter design could set it apart from competitors in the crowded foldable market.
An Exciting Year Ahead for Foldable Fans
With the Huawei Pocket 3 expected to launch in Q1, the company appears to be gearing up for another major release in the foldable smartphone segment. Though official details are still awaited, leaks suggest that Huawei is doubling down on innovation with a thinner, more compact design and the introduction of multiple variants.
As the foldable market becomes more competitive, the Pocket 3’s success will depend on how well it can stand out against rivals like Xiaomi, Honor, and Samsung. If Huawei delivers meaningful upgrades and maintains the premium feel of its Pocket series, the Pocket 3 could be one of the standout foldable devices of the year.
For now, all eyes are on Huawei’s next move as we await the official unveiling of the Pocket 3 and the rumored compact tablet.
