It wasn’t only Samsung and LG that were busy yesterday at MWC 2016, so was Huawei. The Chinese manufacturer launched the MateBook, a 2-in-1 Windows 10 device aimed at business users and set to take on Microsoft’s Surface.

Featuring a 12” IPS multi-touch screen with a decent resolution of 2160x1440, it would seem that the unit only comes into its own once paired with its keyboard, which is sold separately. The chiclet styled keyboard has a 1.5 mm keystroke, while a touchpad is also present. Once closed, the keyboard doubles as a case, with a rather classy look thanks to soft PU leather. Weighing in 640 g for the MateBook and 450 g for the cover, you certainly won’t strain carrying this one around.

What’s in the MateBook

Back to the device itself. With a 6.9 mm aluminum unibody design the MateBook certainly looks the part, powered by Intel’s low energy 6^th Generation Core m-series dual core processor. Users also have access to up to 8 GB of LPDDR3 memory and a solid-state hard drive with a maximum capacity of 512 GB. The MateBook is fanless, which means you won’t hear the usual noise coming from your notebook, while under the hood is a 4430 mAh battery. Huawei believes this can last an average workday thanks to nine hours of battery life. 

The side of the device carries a one-touch unlock fingerprint recognition sensor, which Huawei notes is the fastest in the business, while users also have a USB Type-C port to count on.

If you are willing to cough up more for extras, you can also buy the MatePen stylus which offers 2048 levels of sensitivity. Interestingly, it can also be used as a laser pointer for delivering presentations.

Coming to SA?

Now for the bad news – according to the press release the MateBook is not confirmed for South Africa, with Huawei stating that it will be released in Asia, Europe and North America. We are awaiting final confirmation from Huawei South Africa in this regard.

Travelling overseas and looking to pick one up? Expect to pay between $699 and $1 599, and add an extra $129 for the keyboard and $59 for the MatePen.