Huawei has introduced refreshed versions of two familiar products in Malaysia, and both updates are aimed at users who care about practical details more than dramatic redesigns. The FreeClip 2 S Signature Edition and MatePad Air (2026) do not represent major generational jumps, but each one adds a feature set that may make daily use more appealing.
The clearest example is the FreeClip 2 S, which keeps the open-ear design philosophy of the line while improving how it handles changing environments. Huawei says the earbuds use an updated Adaptive Volume Algorithm, supported by a third-generation audio chip with a dedicated AI NPU, to automatically adjust volume and call sound based on surrounding conditions.
FreeClip 2 S focuses on smarter everyday listening
That approach matters because open-ear earbuds do not block outside noise the way in-ear models do. Instead of relying on passive isolation, the FreeClip 2 S is built to respond to the environment in real time, so users are less likely to keep reaching for the volume controls during a commute, walk, or call.
Huawei also keeps the hardware broadly familiar. The earbuds still feature a dual-diaphragm driver, three microphones for noise cancellation, and up to 9 hours of use on a single charge, while the case extends total battery life to 38 hours.
Aesthetics also received a small but noticeable update. The FreeClip 2 S now comes in Deepsea Blue and Space Silver, and Huawei is offering an additional clip-on accessory designed by the French jewelry house Les Néréides. The accessory makes the charging case slightly larger, since it has to store the extra piece as well.
| Model | Main Features | Battery Life | Colors / Variants |
|---|---|---|---|
| FreeClip 2 S Signature Edition | Dual-diaphragm driver, 3 microphones, Adaptive Volume, third-generation audio chip with AI NPU | 9 hours, up to 38 hours with case | Deepsea Blue, Space Silver |
| MatePad Air (2026) | 12-inch PaperMatte OLED, 144Hz, 2800 x 1840px, Kirin T93C | 10,100 mAh, 66W fast charging | Airy Blue, Sakura Pink, White |
MatePad Air 2026 puts its biggest upgrade on the display
The MatePad Air (2026) is the more interesting of the two for display-focused users. For the first time in the MatePad Air family, Huawei has adopted a PaperMatte OLED panel, a feature previously associated with the MatePad Pro series and intended to make reading and working more comfortable.
The tablet keeps a 12-inch screen size and supports a 144Hz refresh rate with a resolution of 2800 x 1840 pixels. Huawei also offers a non-PaperMatte version for buyers who want a lower-cost option, while the battery remains at 10,100 mAh with 66W fast charging.
Inside, the tablet uses the Kirin T93C chipset and includes what Huawei describes as Pro-level AI features for productivity and creative tasks. The device is also slimmer than before, measuring 5.3mm, and comes in Airy Blue, Sakura Pink, and White.
In Europe, Huawei has priced the MatePad Air 8GB/256GB non-PaperMatte version at €849 and includes a keyboard in the package. The PaperMatte model costs €50 more and can be paired with either a keyboard or an M-Pencil Pro, while the 12GB RAM version is listed at €999 with keyboard only.
According to GSMArena, the FreeClip 2 S will be available from 14 July to 17 August at £169, down from its normal £199 price. Huawei is also offering a limited bundle at £199 that includes a pair of Les Néréides clip-ons.
Neither product changes Huawei’s formula in a dramatic way, but both show a clear focus on refinement rather than reinvention. The FreeClip 2 S leans on adaptive audio and styling details, while the MatePad Air (2026) pushes further on display comfort and productivity hardware.
