#What Happened
Honor, the Chinese smartphone maker, launched a wave of AI features on October 15 to coincide with China's peak shopping season. Debuting on its new Magic8 series and other devices in China, the features include on-device tools that help users automatically compare shopping deals across platforms like JD.com and Alibaba’s Taobao. Also unveiled was the "Robot Phone" — a concept device with an AI-powered, gimbal-mounted camera that folds out from the phone’s rear to shoot photos and video in multiple directions. The Robot Phone remains in the concept stage, previewed only through CGI, with further details expected at Mobile World Congress 2026.
#Why It Matters
Honor's AI push is part of a $10 billion, five-year investment to transform into a leading AI device company. It comes as Apple has yet to release its AI tools in China, giving Honor a potential edge. The company now envisions users navigating smartphones through AI portals rather than opening apps directly. The Robot Phone concept furthers this narrative by proposing a device that acts as an intelligent, even emotional, companion — highlighting Honor’s ambition to blend robotics, AI, and mobile hardware into a new category of smart devices.
While Honor’s AI tools may boost its competitive position, analysts caution that the Robot Phone remains conceptual and monetization of its AI offerings could face headwinds.
#What to Watch Next
All eyes are on Honor’s upcoming ecosystem conference on October 23 for new AI announcements in areas like health, sports, and companionship. Watch for how Honor’s Model Context Protocol (MCP) integrates with partners like Meituan, Bilibili, and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd - ADR (NYSE:BABA) to extend AI functionality beyond the device. At MWC 2026, the industry will be looking for a real-world demonstration of the Robot Phone and clarity on whether it’s moving from concept to commercial product.
#Quick Take
Honor’s AI upgrades position it as a serious innovator in the competitive Chinese smartphone market. If its Robot Phone becomes viable, it could redefine expectations for smart device interaction.