Huawei has begun a significant software rollout for its flagship Mate 80 series, delivering a comprehensive HarmonyOS update packed with user-focused enhancements. The update, version 6.0.0.120 SP9, marks a notable step in refining the device experience, addressing everything from photography and cross-platform connectivity to system navigation and user privacy. This release underscores Huawei's continued commitment to improving its ecosystem through software, even as it navigates a challenging global market.
A Focus on Camera Refinement and Gallery Management
The update brings substantial improvements to the Mate 80's already capable camera system. Huawei has optimized shooting performance in specific modes like movie effects and moon mode, with a particular emphasis on better stability when capturing fast-moving subjects. The dynamic photo stabilization algorithm has been fine-tuned for smoother results. Furthermore, the proprietary Red Maple camera system receives updated color tuning for telephoto and wide-angle lenses, promising more accurate and pleasing images in certain lighting conditions. On the software side, the Gallery app introduces a practical new feature: users can now delete photos locally to free up device storage while preserving their backups in the cloud, a boon for those managing large media libraries.
Breaking Platform Barriers with Expanded Huawei Share
One of the most headline-grabbing features is the expansion of Huawei Share's capabilities. The update now allows Mate 80 users to seamlessly send photos, videos, files, and contacts directly to devices running iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. This cross-platform functionality, however, requires the receiving Apple device to install Huawei's HarmonyOS Galaxy Interconnect application. This move represents a strategic effort to improve interoperability and reduce friction for users within mixed-device environments, potentially making Huawei phones more appealing to those entrenched in Apple's ecosystem.
Update Details for Huawei Mate 80 Series:
- Main Update Version: HarmonyOS 6.0.0.120 SP9
- Main Update Size: ~2.81 GB
- Follow-up Patch Size: ~133.57 MB (Released 2025-12-14)
- Key Feature Areas: Camera optimization, Gallery cloud/local management, Cross-platform Huawei Share (iOS/macOS), Privacy controls (orientation data), Outdoor Exploration Mode gestures, System stability.
- Status: Rolling out in stages.
Enhanced Privacy Controls and New System Navigation
Privacy receives a thoughtful upgrade with a new setting that allows users to restrict an app's access to device orientation data. This control is designed to prevent so-called "shake" actions that can trigger unwanted advertisements or redirects, giving users more power over their digital experience. For system navigation, Huawei is introducing an Outdoor Exploration Mode. This mode provides gesture-based shortcuts for core multitasking functions, including quick app switching, split-screen, and floating windows, which could be particularly useful for one-handed operation or when wearing gloves.
Rolling Release and Accompanying Stability Patch
As is standard for major updates, this HarmonyOS release is being distributed in stages, meaning availability may vary for users in different regions or on different carriers. Notably, on December 14, 2025, Huawei also began pushing a smaller, follow-up system patch (approximately 133.57 MB) for the Mate 80 series. This patch focuses on optimizing various interface display effects and is being delivered alongside the continued rollout of the main 6.0.0.120 SP9 update, indicating Huawei's attention to post-release polish and stability.