Huawei Pura 80 Pro Plus Review: Next-Gen Camera Tech & Flagship Performance

Huawei is back in the spotlight with the launch of its latest flagship—the Huawei Pura 80 Pro Plus. If you remember the buzz around the Pura 70 Ultra and its retractable lens, you’ll notice that this year, Huawei has opted for a more refined and advanced approach, leaving behind the physical gimmicks but pushing boundaries further in terms of internal lens design and computational photography.

We were lucky enough to get our hands on the Pura 80 Pro Plus right after its launch event. Here’s what stands out.

A Revolutionary Camera System

One of the biggest highlights comes from the Pura 80 Ultra, which shares many similarities with the Pro Plus. Huawei has implemented a switchable telephoto lens system that allows one sensor to support two different focal lengths. Rather than using two separate sensors, a movable prism directs light to different fixed-focus lenses. This smart engineering not only saves space inside the device but also enhances optical performance.

For instance, the 10x telephoto functions like a standard periscope lens. When you switch to the 3.7x zoom, the prism physically redirects to a second lens. The result? Dual focal lengths on a single sensor with top-tier image clarity.

Huawei chose to use two fixed-focus lenses instead of one zoom lens, understanding that digital zoom cannot match the crispness of dedicated optics. This innovation allows for a smaller camera module, freeing up valuable space for components like a larger battery or a bigger vapor chamber for cooling.

Main Sensor Made in China

Both the Pro Plus and Ultra variants feature a 1-inch main sensor that’s made in China. The retractable structure from the previous generation is gone, but the adjustable aperture remains. Dynamic range has also improved, promising more vibrant photos, better contrast, and excellent low-light performance.

While we’re still waiting for an in-depth camera review after acquiring the Ultra, the Pro Plus model already delivers impressive results, making it a reliable indicator of what to expect from the top-tier Ultra.

Design: Familiar Yet Polished

Huawei hasn’t made drastic changes in terms of overall aesthetics. The camera module still sits at the top-left corner, but it’s slightly larger than before. Thankfully, it doesn’t interfere with how you hold the phone. The arc-shaped frame gives the device a smooth, pebble-like feel, offering a premium grip.

We got the bright black ceramic-coated version, and yes—it’s reflective enough to use as a mirror. It’s sleek, elegant, and distinctly Huawei.

Fingerprint Sensor Placement: A Mixed Reaction

One design change that may divide opinion is the relocation of the fingerprint sensor from under the screen to the power button. Some users prefer the physical placement, citing quicker response times, while others miss the futuristic feel of in-display sensors. It’s a personal choice and will take some getting used to.

Hardware and Performance

Due to limitations with HarmonyOS Next, Huawei hasn’t revealed the exact processor model. However, based on Geekbench 6 data, it’s most likely the Kirin 9020 or possibly even the new Kirin 9030. Either way, the chipset feels smooth and responsive in real-world usage, with excellent multitasking and gaming performance.

The curved-edge display remains unchanged in shape but has received a bump in maximum brightness, making it more readable in sunlight. Otherwise, the panel continues to deliver the crisp resolution and color depth Huawei is known for.

Bigger Battery, Flagship Charging

The 5700mAh battery is a welcome upgrade and is paired with 100W wired charging and 80W wireless charging, ensuring the device charges swiftly whether plugged in or on a pad. For those who demand all-day performance with minimal downtime, this is a flagship-grade combo.

There’s even satellite communication support, a premium feature that’s becoming increasingly relevant for emergency connectivity in remote areas.

Final Thoughts

The Huawei Pura 80 series isn’t just an iterative upgrade—it’s a statement. From the dual-lens telephoto design to the 1-inch main sensor and larger battery, Huawei has once again demonstrated its ability to push boundaries in mobile photography and hardware design.

With a price around $1,100, the Pura 80 Pro Plus delivers on every front—performance, innovation, and camera excellence. We’re excited to see how the Ultra model performs in detailed testing, but even now, it’s clear that Huawei engineers have once again delivered something that makes people say, “Wow.”

Stay tuned for the full Huawei Pura 80 Ultra camera review, coming soon.