It’s over a year now since the US government banned trade with Huawei . However, Huawei has continued to announce a series of smartphones without Google Services. How’s has Huawei done it without Google?
When Google first came into our lives, it was probably for its search engine. Then there was Gmail, YouTube, Android, and a whole lot of other things.
Let’s face it, Google is now weaved into the fiber of our lives. However, recent events have made me ask myself some questions. Is too much reliance on Google services unhealthy? Can we live in a Google-free world? When I speak of not-so-recent events, I refer to what happened last year. A turning point in a long time trade rift between the US and China.
It was a sweeping move that affected consumers around the world. Basically, American companies were banned from doing business with Huawei. I won’t go into the politics of it all but it generally meant chip manufacturers like Qualcomm and Intel, software vendors like Microsoft, and the biggest fish of them all; Google could not conduct usual business with Huawei.
Fun Fact: Huawei is the world’s second-largest smartphone manufacturer.
Is Android Not Open Source Anymore?
Of course, Android is still free and open source. However, because Google sells licenses for Google mobile services, it meant that Huawei also lost access to the Google Play Store. So here’s another question, if you’re an Android user, can you survive without the Google Play Store? And if you own a Huawei phone, what is it like using their online platform; Huawei mobile services (HMS) ?
Huawei AppGallery Vs Google Play Store
Building an app store can be a challenge. You really need to work hard to get many app developers on board. Especially if you want to be able to offer the most essential apps. Over the last year, Huawei has been working hard to make that a reality. They launched the AppGallery in Barcelona earlier this year (Feb 2020). In the last few months alone, I’ve seen big names added to the platform.
There’s also an official link to download Facebook. Both of these are good signs that the promise is indeed going to be fulfilled. In its push to become a solid Google Play alternative, Huawei is adopting a different strategy; Glocal .
Huawei’s Glocal Strategy
This means highlighting not only global favorites but also local apps with tools that help you make the most wherever it is you live. For instance, in the UK, this means partnerships with The Times and Talksport . There’s also a bit of gamification thrown in the mix with quirky promotion gifts you can claim. Like a one-year subscription to Sleep cycle. There are also points you can earn and spend as currency in other apps.
I’ve been following the Huawei-US saga for a while now. I find it fascinating how what happens in the US dictates the rest of the tech world. But whether we like it or not, China is becoming equally as important. Boasting of six popular smartphone brands, the supply chain, and manufacturing, it’s hard to ignore China’s impact on the tech world.
Is The US Market That Much Of A Big Deal?
Yeah, the US market is a great deal. Making it in the US regardless of how big you are in China, or how successful you are —globally— seems to be the holy grail for tech companies. Recall back in 2018 when Huawei was about to announce its US debut; Mate 10 Pro on AT&T? It was the worst kept secret at CES that year. Everyone knew about it in advance.
The announcement event was set, promotional materials were printed and devices were ready to go on sale. But at the very last minute, for some reason, it didn’t happen. That prompted Huawei’s CEO Richard Yu to go off-script, calling the broken down deal “…a big loss for consumers because consumers don’t have the best choice…” .
As a tech enthusiast, I have to agree with him and I believe that every techie will tell you the same thing. The best part of our job is to be able to learn about the best tech that’s out there and to be able to tell you about it. It’s sad when consumers don’t have access to the latest and greatest tech the world has on offer.
Is The US Missing Out On Anything (Due To This Ban)?
I think the perfect example of this is the Huawei Mate Xs. It is by far the most interesting, dare I say the best foldable phone in the market today, except that you can’t buy it in the US. I mean it’s the only phone with a display that folds outwards. So when shut, you have what looks like an all-display smartphone.
It’s got another display on its back perfect for shooting photos of others. And when you open it up, like magic, it becomes a full-size tablet. Its form factor is so special and so unique. I’m a person who flashes Android custom ROMs from time to time, most of which don’t come with Google Play Services.
That alone puts me in a good position to ask some questions. Like do I really need Gmail? What other map apps can I use? What Alternative is there to the Google Play Store? I can tell you a couple of things.
Using Huawei Smartphones Without Google Play Services
First, you can get your apps elsewhere other than Google Play Store. Like downloading them directly from developers and services like APKPure. Secondly, Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) is off to a solid start. Thirdly, as much as we rely on Google, it might not be in our best interest to rely on them solely for the entirety of our digital life.
Especially if at the whim of someone in power, it could all be taken away for us. Fourthly, if more than 70 percent of smartphone users are using Android, there needs to be a decentralization of power when it comes to the distribution of Android apps. There need to be Android App Stores independent of Google, but offering the same catalog of apps.
Finally, speaking of apps and services, there are alternatives . It’s just sometimes we don’t even think to look. Start by looking at your email app, there are many solid options out there. Cloud storage? There’s more than just Dropbox or OneDrive . There is also the Huawei Mobile Cloud offered as part of HMS.
For its part, Huawei also making sure that it has a foothold in the audio and video streaming services space. They recently launched their own music and video streaming services called Huawei Video and Huawei Music , and it’s applying that same Glocal strategy as its App Store.
In Germany, for example, you get the national public broadcaster ZAF thrown in the mix alongside Hollywood Movies. In Asia, users get access to their favorite K-Dramas, and so on.
Final Thoughts
To sum it all up, I recommend that we all start doing an inventory of our digital lives. Shop around for alternatives, keep an open mind to change, and consider new favorites in the interest of not putting all your eggs in one basket. This post isn’t meant to be anti-Google.
As a writer who researched this post on Google, I’d be the first to tell you that the world would be dull without it. I think I’m more concerned about a monopoly. This post isn’t meant to be Pro-Huawei either, even if I’m a fan of their phones.
It’s meant to be a wake-up call, a reminder to think about the choices that we make when it comes to tech, the phones that we buy, the apps that we use, and the services that we rely on. I recommend striking a healthy balance and fighting for our freedom to choose. Because not being able to have all of them is a loss to us all.
George Kimathi a tech writer based in Kenya, passionate about exploring how technology shapes everyday life across Africa. From mobile innovations to digital trends, he covers the tools and ideas driving the continent’s digital transformation. When not writing, George enjoys testing gadgets, exploring local tech communities, and staying curious about what’s next.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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