Honor, a prominent Chinese smartphone brand, is set to launch its new mid-range model, the Honor Power 2, in January 2026. The device sparks debate not for its specs but because its design closely mimics the yet-to-be-released iPhone 17 Pro from Apple.
Leaked images shared by the well-known tipster Panda is Bald on Weibo reveal that Honor Power 2 duplicates many Apple design elements. The phone features a horizontal triple-camera module with an LED flash positioned on the left side, mirroring the rumored arrangement on the iPhone 17 Pro.
The similarity extends to the body shape with sharp edges reminiscent of iPhones since the 12th generation. Even the device’s main color, a metallic orange shade, aligns with leaks about Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro palette. Honor will also offer the phone in classic black and white variants, reflecting Apple’s typical color options.
Technical Strength Behind the Design
Honor Power 2 packs powerful specifications that compete well in its segment. It runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 chipset built on a 5nm process, promising strong performance and energy efficiency. The device will include 12GB of RAM and operate on Magic OS 10, Honor’s custom skin based on the latest Android 16.
The 6.79-inch OLED screen features a 1.5K resolution with an expected 120Hz refresh rate. Photography capabilities include a 50MP main rear sensor supplemented by two additional lenses likely for ultrawide and macro shots. The front camera sports a 16MP sensor.
Perhaps the most impressive hardware feature is the massive 10,080mAh battery. This huge capacity can support heavy users or travelers for up to 2–3 days on a single charge. Although fast charging details remain undisclosed, support for 66W or higher is probable.
Magic OS 10 and the Android 16 Foundation
Honor Power 2 will pioneer the global debut of Magic OS 10 built on Android 16 developer preview released mid-2025. This new software promises deeper AI integration for smarter assistance and battery optimization. It also introduces a focus mode aimed at productivity enhancement and improved multi-device support across Honor’s ecosystem.
Industry Context: Dimensity 8500 and Competitors
The Dimensity 8500 platform powering Honor Power 2 is not exclusive. Redmi Turbo 5, Poco X8 Pro (the global variant of Turbo 5), and Realme Neo 8 SE also utilize this chip. Redmi Turbo 5 will launch earlier but only in China, while Poco X8 Pro targets global markets.
This shows that Honor faces not only design-based comparisons but also stiff competition in performance and software optimization from brands using the same chipset.
The Trend of Apple-Inspired Designs in China
Honor’s design choice follows a longer trend of Chinese manufacturers adopting Apple-like aesthetics. Recent examples include Xiaomi 17 resembling iPhone 16 Pro, vivo X100 Ultra with distinct iPhone-style camera modules, and Oppo Find X7 featuring sharp corners and metallic finishes akin to Apple devices.
The appeal lies in consumer perception associating Apple’s look with premium quality. This strategy targets buyers who desire a luxury appearance at a lower price. However, critics argue this reduces design diversity and weakens distinct brand identities in the smartphone industry.
Is Honor Losing Its Creative Identity?
Honor previously earned praise for innovative designs like ultra-curved displays on Magic 3 and unique camera layouts on the X series. The Power 2’s near-copy of Apple’s design marks a different approach, favoring safety over innovation.
This can be rationalized from a business standpoint:
- Apple-like design boosts perceived premium value.
- The viral orange color increases media buzz.
- High specs combined with massive battery enhance market appeal.
Nevertheless, over-reliance on competitor aesthetics could blur Honor’s brand personality. Loyal users may question the authenticity of Honor’s design direction moving forward.
In summary, Honor Power 2 combines robust technical features and impressive battery life but wears a “borrowed” design identity. It remains to be seen if consumers prioritize raw performance or brand originality when the phone launches next year.
-
-
-
-
