Huawei has officially announced the launch date for its next-generation mid-range smartphone series, the Nova 15. Slated for December 22, 2025, the event marks a significant step for the popular lineup, promising not just iterative updates but a substantial leap in performance and design. The series, which has already appeared on Huawei's official online store, is set to challenge the boundaries between mid-tier and flagship devices with the introduction of high-end Kirin processors and a revamped camera system.
Official Launch and Design Reveal
Huawei has confirmed that the Nova 15 series and other ecosystem products will be unveiled on December 22, 2025, at 14:30 local time in China. The official teaser poster prominently features a vibrant green color, dubbed "Green No. 15," a clear nod to the series name. More importantly, the poster offers the first official glimpse of the new design language. The Nova 15 Pro and Ultra models will depart from previous designs, adopting a prominent horizontal dual-ring layout for the rear camera module. This aesthetic refresh aligns the series more closely with Huawei's flagship identity, signaling a more premium positioning.
Huawei Nova 15 Series Model Breakdown
| Model | Expected Chipset | Key Camera Features (Rumored) | RAM/Storage Options | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nova 15 | Kirin 8-series (e.g., 8020) | 50MP RYYB Main | 12+256GB, 12+512GB | Sensory Green, Versatile Purple, Zero-Degree White, Phantom Night Black |
| Nova 15 Pro | Kirin 9-series (likely lower-clocked) | 50MP RYYB Main, 48MP Ultra-Wide, 3x Optical Telephoto | 12+256GB, 12+512GB | Sensory Green, Versatile Purple, Zero-Degree White, Phantom Night Black |
| Nova 15 Ultra | Kirin 9-series | 50MP RYYB Main, 48MP Ultra-Wide, 3x Optical Telephoto | 12+256GB, 12+512GB, 12+1TB | Sensory Green, Versatile Purple, Zero-Degree White, Phantom Night Black |
Performance Leap with Kirin 9-Series Chips
The most talked-about upgrade in the Nova 15 series is under the hood. According to multiple tech bloggers and leaks, the performance hierarchy within the series has been dramatically reshuffled. The standard Nova 15 is expected to be powered by a Kirin 8-series chip, likely the Kirin 8020. The real news, however, is for the Pro and Ultra models. Both are rumored to feature Kirin 9-series processors, a first for the Nova line. While the Ultra may get a full-powered version, the Pro is suggested to utilize a slightly lower-clocked variant. This move effectively bridges the performance gap that previously existed between the Nova and Huawei's flagship Mate and Pura series, offering near-top-tier power in a more accessible package.
Camera and Display Specifications
Imaging remains a core focus for the Nova series. The Nova 15 lineup will reportedly champion Huawei's "Red Maple Primary Color" imaging system. All models are said to feature a 50-megapixel RYYB main sensor, which excels in low-light photography. The Pro and Ultra variants are expected to gain additional firepower with a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens and a 3x optical telephoto lens, significantly enhancing their versatility. For selfie enthusiasts, the front camera is also getting a boost to a 50-megapixel sensor. On the display front, leaks suggest the Pro and Ultra will sport large, high-resolution LTPO panels capable of adaptive refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz, promising both smooth visuals and power efficiency.
Model Variants and Pricing Strategy
The series will consist of three models: the standard Nova 15, the Nova 15 Pro, and the top-tier Nova 15 Ultra. All models will start with 12GB of RAM, paired with storage options of 256GB or 512GB. The Ultra model will also offer a 1TB storage variant. Color options across the board include "Sensory Green," "Versatile Purple," "Zero-Degree White," and "Phantom Night Black." While official pricing remains under wraps until the launch event, the predecessor Nova 14 series started at CNY 2,699. Given the substantial upgrades, particularly the inclusion of higher-tier chipsets, a modest price increase for the Nova 15 series would not be surprising as Huawei aims to solidify its position in the competitive mid-to-high-end market segment.
Key Launch Information
- Event: Huawei Nova 15 Series & Full-Scenario New Product Launch
- Date: December 22, 2025
- Time: 14:30 (China Standard Time, UTC+8)
- Predecessor Launch: Nova 14 series launched in May 2025, starting at CNY 2,699.
- New Feature: First Nova series to feature Kirin 9-series processors (Pro & Ultra models).
Market Context and Expectations
The announcement comes roughly seven months after the launch of the Nova 14 series in May 2025, indicating a steady refresh cycle. The decision to equip the Nova 15 Pro and Ultra with Kirin 9-series chips is a strategic one. It not only elevates the series' performance credentials but also leverages Huawei's in-house semiconductor progress to create a more compelling value proposition against competitors. Coupled with the expected launch of the latest HarmonyOS 6, which promises deeper AI integration, the Nova 15 series is poised to be one of the most significant releases in Huawei's mid-range portfolio, blurring the lines and offering flagship-like experiences to a broader audience.