Another blow for Huawei, the company’s smartphones will now not come with Facebook apps preinstalled. This includes any of the Facebook apps, plus Instagram and WhatsApp.
According to a recent report from Reuters, these apps will no longer come preinstalled on any Huawei devices. This is because of the US trade ban of Huawei handsets.
Impact on Huawei Users
Owners of these smartphones will still be able to download these apps to their devices, and they will also get updates from the Play Store. However, the convenience of having these popular apps preinstalled will no longer be available. This change means that users will need to take the extra step of downloading the apps themselves, which could be seen as a minor inconvenience but also raises questions about the user experience and initial setup process for new Huawei devices.
The apps will not come bundled with the handsets like the majority of smartphones available today. This will apparently happen for any new smartphone that has not left the factory, so existing handsets in the supply chain will come with these apps installed. This distinction is crucial as it means that current inventory will not be affected, and only future production will see this change.
Broader Implications for Huawei
This development is part of a series of challenges that Huawei has faced due to the US trade ban. The ban has already led to Google removing Huawei smartphones from its Android website, which has significant implications for the company’s ability to provide a competitive product in the global market. Without access to Google’s services, Huawei has had to develop its own alternatives, which may not be as appealing to consumers accustomed to the Google ecosystem.
Moreover, the absence of preinstalled Facebook apps could influence consumer purchasing decisions. Many users expect their new smartphones to come with essential apps preloaded, and the lack of these apps could be a deterrent. This situation could potentially drive consumers to opt for other brands that offer a more seamless out-of-the-box experience.
Additionally, this move by Facebook aligns with the broader trend of tech companies distancing themselves from Huawei due to geopolitical pressures. It highlights the interconnected nature of the tech industry, where decisions by one company can have ripple effects across the entire ecosystem.
For Huawei, this means that they will need to work harder to maintain their market share and consumer trust. They may need to invest more in marketing and customer education to ensure that potential buyers understand that they can still access these popular apps, even if they are not preinstalled.
Source: The Verge
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