Can the Huawei P40 Pro revolutionize smartphone’s autonomy?

While the Huawei Mate 30 Pro recently launched (without Google services), attention is already turning to the Chinese brand’s next flagships, the Huawei P40 and P40 Pro for the first half of 2020. These two smartphones could finally make a difference in terms of battery life with an entirely new type of battery.

The rumor comes from the Indian Twitter Yash Raj Chaudhary, whose reputation has yet to be established. Taken up by many sites, the information proclaims that the technical data sheet of the Huawei P40 Pro would include a 6.5-inch OLED screen in WQHD definition, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, a screen-to-body ratio of 98% thanks to its curved screen and a quadruple photo module including:

– A 64MP RYYYB primary sensor (1/1,7″, with optical stabilization)

– An ultra-wide-angle of 20 MPs

– A 12MP telephone (periscopic)

– A ToF sensor

– The ability to take Macro photos

But beyond that, the most exciting thing is the battery. According to the same source, Huawei P40 Pro would benefit from a new type of battery that includes graphene on both the anode and cathode, but also in the electrolyte.

This change would increase the battery capacity to 5500 mAh while containing its size to 70% of what its equivalent for a Lithium-ion battery would be. Besides, thanks to a 50 W charger, the Huawei P40 Pro could be fully charged in 45 minutes.

Big changes coming in 2020-2021

It seems, however, that manufacturers have finally succeeded in finding the right balance to integrate this component into our every day Tech objects. In addition to this rumor about Huawei, the famous Evleaks said this summer that Samsung should also switch to graphene batteries in 2020 or 2021.

Beyond our smartphones, graphene batteries represent a vital issue for the development of electric cars in the coming years. The various world powers are now seeking to adopt this technology on a large scale, and it has become a particularly important race.

With a large R&D center, Huawei is well-positioned to be among the first to use graphene in its batteries. It is not surprising to see the Chinese giant draw just before Samsung. However, it should be remembered that for the time being, this is a rumor and that it will be necessary to wait for an official announcement to confirm the information.

Years in the making

The use of graphene in our batteries is not new. For years now, this material has been used to cover the anode to prevent wear and tear and allow for longer service life, but the switch to a solid electrolyte is long-awaited.

This type of battery stores more energy, is much less hazardous, lasts longer, and can withstand extreme temperatures, which allows higher charging speeds.

The main problem with graphene is, therefore, its design cost, which could drive up the price of battery-powered devices.