Reinventing the mobile camera again
Huawei has officially unveiled the Pura 80 Ultra, a smartphone that doesn’t just iterate—it innovates. While the Pura 70 Ultra made waves with its retractable lens, the Pura 80 Ultra introduces a new solution: a switchable dual-focus telephoto system using a single sensor and two fixed lenses. Combined with a custom-built 1-inch main sensor developed in China, Huawei is making yet another bold statement in mobile imaging.
The dual-telephoto camera explained
What sets the Pura 80 Ultra apart is its telephoto camera system, which allows a single sensor to switch between two different focal lengths: 3.7x and 10x zoom. This is made possible thanks to a movable prism mechanism inside the periscope structure.
At 10x, the system works like a traditional periscope camera. But when you switch to 3.7x zoom, the prism physically shifts to a second dedicated lens. It’s not a digital crop—both zoom levels are optically focused, providing sharper and more natural results.
Space-saving innovation, better internals
This approach isn’t just clever optically—it also saves space. Instead of fitting two complete telephoto modules or relying on a large variable zoom lens, Huawei’s dual-lens trick frees up room for other hardware. That includes a larger battery, improved cooling solutions, and tighter component integration.
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A better approach than continuous zoom
Unlike Sony’s 85–170mm variable zoom lens, which moves internal elements to change focal lengths, Huawei went with two fixed-focus lenses on the same sensor. Why? Because zoom lenses on phones often sacrifice image quality. Huawei chose the fixed-lens route to ensure superior sharpness and color fidelity at both focal lengths.
A true 1-inch main sensor, no compromise
Backing up the Ultra’s impressive camera system is a 1-inch main sensor that’s developed entirely in China. The retractable structure from the Pura 70 Ultra may be gone, but the variable aperture remains. In our early tests, dynamic range has been noticeably improved, with excellent low-light performance and smooth bokeh.
This same main sensor is also used in the Pura 80 Pro Plus, but the Ultra unlocks its full potential with a more advanced processing pipeline and that groundbreaking dual-telephoto system.
Design remains familiar but refined
From a distance, the Pura 80 Ultra retains Huawei’s distinctive aesthetic. The camera module still sits confidently in the top-left corner but is now slightly more compact than before. The back finish, especially in the Bright Black ceramic version, is so polished it could double as a mirror.
The arc-shaped frame makes it feel like a seamless pebble in the hand. And while the general design hasn’t changed dramatically from the Pura 70 series, everything feels more polished.
One surprise: fingerprint sensor relocation
In a move that has already sparked debate, Huawei has relocated the fingerprint scanner from under the display to the side-mounted power button. Some users appreciate the speed, while others miss the futuristic in-display approach. We’ll reserve judgment until long-term usage testing.
Processor is fast, even if unnamed
Due to limitations with HarmonyOS, Huawei hasn’t explicitly confirmed the Pura 80 Ultra’s chipset model. However, Geekbench 6 scores suggest it’s powered by the Kirin 9020 or possibly a new Kirin 9030. Either way, performance is fast, fluid, and competitive with other 2025 flagship chips.
Display stays gorgeous and curved
The 6.8-inch four-curved OLED panel returns, now with higher peak brightness and better color calibration. While the screen tech hasn’t radically changed, it looks and feels premium—just as it should on a phone of this class.
Flagship battery and satellite features
The Pura 80 Ultra is packed with a 5,700mAh battery, paired with 100W wired charging and 80W wireless charging. Huawei has also included satellite communication support, which continues to set its flagships apart from Western rivals, especially for users in remote areas.
Ultra by name, ultra by nature
At a retail price of around $1,300, the Pura 80 Ultra isn’t cheap—but Huawei isn’t playing the budget game here. This phone is a showcase of what Huawei’s R&D can achieve despite international component restrictions. From the dual-focus telephoto, to the 1-inch domestic sensor, to HarmonyOS enhancements, the Pura 80 Ultra is a smartphone that genuinely moves the industry forward.
We’ll be back soon with detailed tests, samples, and in-depth analysis. For now, it’s safe to say that Huawei’s Ultra branding has never been more justified.
Pros:
- Revolutionary dual-telephoto zoom system
- Custom-made 1-inch main sensor from China
- Ultra-fast charging (100W wired, 80W wireless)
- Satellite messaging and robust connectivity
- Ceramic finish with polished, high-end design
- Larger battery with smart internal layout
Cons:
- Fingerprint scanner moved to side
- No official processor name (yet)
- High price may limit accessibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
What makes the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra’s camera unique?
- It features a switchable dual-telephoto system using one sensor and two fixed lenses, allowing sharp optical zoom at both 3.7x and 10x.
Does the Pura 80 Ultra have a 1-inch sensor?
- Yes, it uses a 1-inch sensor developed entirely in China with improved dynamic range and variable aperture.
What is the processor inside the Pura 80 Ultra?
- Officially unconfirmed due to HarmonyOS limitations, but benchmarks suggest the Kirin 9020 or Kirin 9030.
How fast is the charging on the Pura 80 Ultra?
- It supports 100W wired charging and 80W wireless charging, with a 5,700mAh battery.
Is the Pura 80 Ultra available globally?
- Availability depends on region and carrier support, especially due to 5G limitations outside China.
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