Huawei's latest flagship smartphone is powered by Kirin 9010 SoC
TechInsights, a Canda-headquartered IC research firm, has conducted an exhaustive analysis of Huawei's Pura 70 smartphone. The study revealed that the device is powered by the HiSilicon Kirin 9010 processor from Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC). This supplier choice is likely due to US sanctions limiting Huawei's access to other component providers. The HiSilicon Kirin 9010 system-on-chip (SoC) is manufactured using SMIC's advanced 7nm N+2 process node, claimed TechInsights.
Why does this story matter?
The introduction of the new phone suggests that Huawei may have overcome additional obstacles in its semiconductor supply chain, given its shift toward domestic partners for imported chip replacements. Huawei is intensifying its efforts to develop a comprehensive ecosystem across various business sectors, including smartphones, AI computing, and EV automotive solutions, all of which demand significant quantities of module hardware and chips.
Dismantling the Pura 70 to examine its components
The detailed analysis involved dismantling the Pura 70 to examine its components. The markings on the Kirin 9010 were described as "technically new but remarkably similar" to those on the Kirin 9000 series, a high-end chip first seen in last year's Mate 60 Pro handset. Users who tore down the Pura 70 highlighted the Kirin 9010 with Arm v8 cores operating at varying speeds.
Huawei has become China's leading smartphone brand
Despite the US sanctions, Huawei has managed to become China's leading smartphone brand in terms of shipments, according to recent data from IDC and Canalys. "Huawei has totally broken free from US sanctions in China's markets," said Hutcheson from TechInsights. However, he also noted that the company is still being held back by US sanctions in world markets. IDC China's senior research analyst, Arthur Guo, described Huawei's progress as a strong comeback, acknowledging a year-on-year growth of 110%.
