Last week, HONOR began teasing the launch of a new lineup of smartphones, although it did not outright name the devices. Now, the brand has more or less confirmed that it is releasing the new additions to its main numbered line, otherwise known as the N series. To be clear, the company means the numbered models like the HONOR 400 and 600 lineups. The debut of these phones will also mark a shift in the N series, as the phone maker has announced that it is elevating the lineup to flagship status.
Up until now, the N series served as the company’s mid-range offerings. The last generation to arrive on our shores features Pro and Lite versions alongside the base model. Judging from leaks and the recently launched 600 Lite, the new lineup will likely follow this pattern. We already know about the 600 Lite, and despite being “iPhone-inspired”, it’s not exactly something one would call a premium product. Which is probably why it got left behind in the reshuffle.
What’s changing?
Given that HONOR has yet to offer some concrete details on the upcoming phones, it’s too early to tell whether one can call them high-end devices. Still, the brand is trying to paint a clearer picture without giving away the game. As per its announcement, the new N series will feature “top-tier hardware and advanced imaging systems”. Here, the company revealed that a Snapdragon “Elite-level” chipset will be on board, but doesn’t actually specify which one. In any case, it will be a Snapdragon 8-series SoC.
That said, unless the phones are packing Qualcomm’s latest and greatest, this wouldn’t exactly be a new development. For reference, the HONOR 400 Pro debuted last year with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. And while the brand is keeping things vague, its announcement likely concerns the 600 Pro specifically. In any case, the brand is promising “flagship-level performance without compromising on creativity and everyday usability”.
Other than a powerful chipset, HONOR claimed that the new N series will feature a revamped telephoto camera that outperforms the preceding generation. This upgrade will allow for sharper details across various shooting conditions. Naturally, the hardware gets paired with AI-driven capabilities. This AI imaging system features an Image-to-Video tool for animating static photographs.
Finally, the phone maker highlighted the design. Apparently, the new series will sport a sleek and premium build that’s both comfortable and durable.
In the big leagues
The upcoming N series will be joining the likes of the Magic lineup. For the uninitiated, the Magic series includes the Magic8 Pro and foldables like Magic V6 and Magic V5. Compared to the numbered range, these models are considerably pricier. However, the company does go all out on hardware and features. So, unless the brand is making some drastic changes to the N series, it will likely sit at the lower end of the premium category.
The reshuffle leaves the durability-focused X9 lineup as the brand’s mid-range offering. Some models in this series include the X9d, which launched back in September, and the much older X9c. These phones sport Snapdragon 6-series chipsets and a more modest imaging system. On the lower rungs of the ladder are the X7 and X6 models like the X7d and X6c. These are entry-level devices with basic features and an affordable price tag.
Regardless, it looks like HONOR is pushing for its main numbered series to compete directly in the high-end smartphone segment. For now, it’s hard to say how it will shake out, but the brand promises to shed more light on the upcoming N series on 9 April 2026.
(Source: HONOR press release)
