HUAWEI just dropped its latest mid-range powerhouses in South Africa — the nova 13 and MatePad 11.5 — and they’re bringing some serious heat. From AI-enhanced selfies to ultra-fast charging and a display that actually respects your eyes, these devices set a new benchmark for budget-friendly brilliance.
Let’s be real, front cameras are a big deal, in fact, according to HUAWEI 50% of their customers prioritise selfie-cameras, which is why the nova 13 packs a 60MP Ultra-Wide Front Camera with AI Best Expression. No more awkward group photos where someone inevitably blinks at the wrong moment. The phone’s AI sifts through multiple frames and picks the best expressions, making sure you always look on point. It’s a smart flex, and one that makes sense when over half of users choose their phone based on selfie quality.
Peter Feng, CEO of Huawei South Africa Consumer Business Group, puts it bluntly: “We’re not just helping people take photos. We’re helping them capture confidence.” That might sound like marketing talk, but with results like this, it’s hard to argue.
Fast charging isn’t a nice-to-have anymore, it’s a must. The nova 13 doesn’t mess around, juicing up to 50% in just 10 minutes thanks to 100W SuperCharge Turbo. And with a 5000mAh battery, you’re not constantly looking for an outlet mid-scroll.
Design-wise, HUAWEI’s bringing some flair with its Dynamic Plaid Texture in Loden Green. It’s not just another glass slab — it catches light in a way that makes it stand out. Subtle, but stylish.
The MatePad 11.5 isn’t your average mid-range tablet. With an 11.5-inch PaperMatte Display, it reduces glare while giving you a smoother, more natural feel when using the M-Pencil (3rd generation). Whether you’re jotting notes, sketching, or binging Netflix, the 120Hz refresh rate keeps everything crisp and fluid.
HUAWEI isn’t just pushing devices, it’s pushing a mindset. By teaming up with Bayanda Walaza, South Africa’s youngest Olympic medallist, the brand is doubling down on ambition, speed, and success. Walaza, fresh off a silver medal at the Paris Olympics and two golds at the World Athletics U20 Championships, embodies the same energy that HUAWEI is trying to infuse into its products.
If you’re after flagship-like features without the flagship price, the nova 13 and MatePad 11.5 are solid picks. You’re getting AI-powered photography, blazing-fast charging, and a design that feels as good as it looks. Add in Walaza’s endorsement, and it’s clear HUAWEI isn’t just here to sell phones, it’s here to set a pace.
The nova 13, nova 13i, and MatePad 11.5 are available now in South Africa, with early-bird deals that include free HUAWEI FreeBuds SE 2. If you’re looking for power without breaking the bank, these might just be the ones to beat.