Huawei users tap workaround to install Google apps outside China

U.S. sanctions fail to stifle Chinese smartphone maker's comeback

20250304N Huawei

This Huawei phone, sold in Hong Kong, came with Google apps preinstalled. (Photo by Itsuro Fujino)

ITSURO FUJINO, KENYA AKAMA and SHUNTARO FUKUTOMI

BEIJING/BANGKOK/DUBAI -- Owners of Huawei phones sold outside China are once again enjoying Google apps on their devices thanks to third-party tools, proving U.S. sanctions on the Chinese technology company ineffective.

In late February, a smartphone store in Bangkok was touting that Google apps could be used on Huawei handsets with "no problem." All four Huawei models, including the popular foldable Mate X6, came with the Chrome browser and Gmail app installed.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.