Select a region
Huawei has unveiled a hybrid laptop to compete with the iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface.
The 2-in-1 device, which is called the MateBook, functions as a laptop, but the screen can be detached to operate as a tablet, which will run Microsoft’s Windows 10.
It will come with a 12-inch full HD touch screen, as well as a stylus – the MatePen – which doubles as a laser pointer for presentations. However, both the MatePen and attachable keyboard will be sold separately.
The hybrid comes with 8GB of memory for mobile use, and a hard drive with 512GB of space. The attachable keyboard is made from soft leather, Huawei said, with the device set to be made available in a range of four colours. It also weighs only 640g and is as thin as an iPhone 6.
Hybrid devices that can be used as both a laptop and a tablet have hugely grown in popularity in the last year, driven by Microsoft’s successful Surface line, and the introduction of Apple’s iPad Pro in October.
Huawei said the screen on the MateBook takes up 84% of the face of the device – more than many other devices – thanks to a narrow frame.
The Chinese firm’s chief, Richard Yu, said: “With this landmark device, Huawei is demonstrating our industry-leading design and manufacturing expertise by bringing a beautifully crafted flagship product to market that is redefining the new style of business – connected computing across all devices in almost every scenario.”
The technology giant confirmed a starting price of 799 euros (£617) for the MateBook, but is yet to confirm a release date for the hybrid.
The announcement was made ahead of technology show the Mobile World Congress (MWC), which opens in Barcelona on Monday.
