GADGETS | Huawei Mate 80 Pro, Watch GT Runner 2 coming to PH; HONMA golf smartwatch showcased

Huawei is preparing to introduce new flagship mobile and wearable devices in the Philippines while showcasing specialized smartwatch technology for sports users, including golfers and runners.

The company confirmed that the Huawei Mate 80 Pro smartphone and the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 will launch in the country in April, following their global unveiling at the “Now is Your Run” product launch event in Madrid, Spain.

The upcoming devices highlight Huawei’s focus on combining artificial intelligence, performance optimization, and specialized sports tracking features across its smartphone and wearable lineup.

Mate series returns with AI camera and durability upgrades

Huawei said the Mate 80 Pro marks the return of its flagship Mate series after a two-year gap, positioning the device as a premium smartphone designed around imaging and performance innovations.

The smartphone features an AI-powered True-to-Color Camera designed to capture lifelike colors across complex lighting conditions and mixed color temperatures.

Huawei also introduced the device’s Dual Space Ring design, paired with second-generation Kunlun Glass and IP68 and IP69 water and dust resistance for improved durability.

To support sustained performance, the Mate 80 Pro uses a SuperCool Dual Phase Change heat dissipation system, which the company said helps maintain peak performance by reducing thermal throttling during intensive workloads.

Huawei said the device is designed to deliver a flagship smartphone experience through AI features, camera technology, and hardware engineering.

Watch GT Runner 2 focuses on professional running

Alongside the smartphone launch, Huawei also unveiled the Watch GT Runner 2, a smartwatch designed for runners and endurance athletes.

The wearable introduces a 3D floating antenna architecture intended to improve positioning accuracy during outdoor activities. The watch also uses an intelligent positioning algorithm that continues calculating trajectory and distance even when satellite signals are temporarily lost.

Huawei added an intelligent marathon mode that provides race management and pacing tools that act as a digital coaching assistant during training and competition.

Two-time Olympic athlete and Watch GT Runner global ambassador Eliud Kipchoge shared his experience of co-creating products with Huawei at the event, stating, “I am passionate to share my opinions and perspectives to improve the smartwatch experience not just for elite athletes but for runners all around the world.”

Huawei said the Watch GT Runner 2 builds on the previous model introduced in 2021 and reflects five years of development aimed at improving professional running watch technology.

Huawei and HONMA showcase golf-focused smartwatch

Separately, Huawei also demonstrated the HONMA x Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro during the Malbon Buckets Club 004 Golf Tournament at Canlubang Golf and Country Club.

The smartwatch, developed in collaboration with Japanese golf equipment manufacturer HONMA, was tested by players during the tournament as they competed across four divisions.

The device includes golf-specific features such as more than 17,000 zoomable 3D course maps worldwide, including more than 100 courses in the Philippines. These maps allow players to visualize fairways, hazards, and landing zones before taking shots.

Other functions include Green Slope Direction and Play-Like Distance, which provide putting and yardage insights that account for elevation and wind conditions.

Huawei also integrated an AI Caddie that analyzes a player’s swing history and performance trends to recommend clubs and strategies during play. The watch tracks shot distances and automatically records strokes through digital scorecards in the Huawei Health app.

Paul Martires of Malbon Buckets Club said the device helped provide real-time information during the game.

“Super helpful watch on the course. It’s light on the wrist, easy to check mid-swing, with GPS and yardages that stayed on point my whole round,” he said.

Premium build and limited-edition package

The HONMA collaboration model also emphasizes premium design elements, including HONMA-exclusive watch faces such as the Pine Leaf Pattern and BERES 7S Mt. Fuji design.

The smartwatch uses an aerospace-grade titanium case, sapphire crystal glass, and a 1.47-inch AMOLED display with up to 3,000 nits brightness designed for outdoor visibility during golf play.

Huawei is offering the device as part of a HONMA Premium Collection Gift Box, which includes golf accessories such as a commemorative golf ball, tee, divot tool, and ball marker packaged in a black-and-gold case inspired by HONMA’s pine leaf motif.

The limited-edition package is available for P17,999, discounted from P19,999, and includes digital benefits such as exclusive watch faces and a Huawei Health+ membership.

Huawei said the new smartphone and smartwatch lineup will expand its consumer device portfolio in the Philippines, targeting users seeking flagship mobile performance as well as specialized sports wearables.