Telecom Lead Asia: Huawei launched its first Windows Phone 8 smartphone – Huawei W1 – in the U.S., where it’s facing security related issues.
According to IDC, Huawei is one of the top-three smartphone vendors in the world. In Q4 2012, Huawei held 4.9 percent marketshare based on unit shipments of smartphones.
Ramon Llamas, a research manager with IDC’s Mobile Phone team said: The fact that Huawei and ZTE find themselves among the top 5 smartphone vendors marks a significant shift for the global market.”
Huawei grew its market share due to its focus on emerging telecom markets. IDC says in recent quarters Huawei has turned their attention toward higher-end devices.
Huawei, which recently said it may dilute its focus on American markets, is strengthening its presence with the new smartphone that is supported by Microsoft.
Huawei CEO Ren Zhengfei, addressing a select media briefing in New Zealand, said that the Chinese telecom gear maker does not have any role in America’s cyber security issues.
Huawei CEO also said New Zealand is a key market for the world’s second largest telecom equipment maker. It currently faces criticism – due to security related issues — in Australia.
Huawei W1 will be available this month online at Walmart.com and at select Walmart stores in the United States.
Todd Greenberg, general manager, US Windows Phone Sales at Microsoft, said: “Huawei W1 is a great addition to the Windows Phone 8 portfolio of devices in the U.S. with its impressive battery life and availability in Walmart stores.”
The new smartphone with 4” IPS LCD touch screen made of Gorilla glass features 1.2GHz dual-core processor.
5MP camera with 0.3MP front-facing camera is yet another attraction.
“The Huawei W1 is competitively priced with an unlimited 30-day no-contract plan,” said Michael Chuang, executive vice president at Huawei Device USA.
