Honor has unveiled the official launch date for its next-generation foldable smartphone, the Magic V5. According to multiple reliable sources, the device is scheduled to debut in China on July 2, 2025, via a dedicated event set in Shenzhen. The announcement marks the latest step in Honor’s strategic pivot toward ultra-slim, AI-powered flagship devices and positions the Magic V5 as a direct competitor to Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 .
Context and Timing
This date was first teased through a marketing image and subsequently confirmed by Honor executives, including CEO James Li, during MWC Shanghai 2025 . The July 2 launch notably precedes Samsung’s expected announcement of the Z Fold 7 at Unpacked in early July, amplifying the Magic V5’s presence in the foldable market’s summer spotlight.
Design and Engineering Highlights
Honor is clearly aiming to reclaim its pioneering position in foldable design. The teaser emphasizes that the Magic V5 will emerge as the “thinnest and lightest foldable smartphone in the world”, reinvigorating the legacy of the Magic V2 and V3 and challenging the Oppo Find N5’s current record of approximately 8.9 mm when folded .
Visual previews hint at an astonishingly slim folded profile, with a sleek side profile revealing minimized edges around the power and volume buttons . While exact thickness remains under wraps, whispers suggest a folded body under 9 mm, potentially as slim as 8.8‑8.9 mm—edging ahead of rival offerings .
AI and Productivity Capabilities
Beyond thinness, Honor heavily promotes the Magic V5 as its most powerful AI‑equipped foldable yet. The teaser declares “PC‑level productivity,” hinting at capabilities such as multi‑window multitasking, desktop-style interface modes, and advanced on-device AI operations . While official benchmarks are yet to arrive, leaks and rumors suggest robust AI features designed for both creativity and workstreams.
Core Specifications (Rumored and Leaked)
Pre‑launch reports, certifications, and benchmarking listings (Geekbench, MIIT, 3C) suggest the following key specs:
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version—the top‑tier variant with prime core clock speeds reaching ~4.47 GHz .
- RAM/Storage: Likely 16 GB RAM with generous onboard storage as expected for flagship devices .
- Main Foldable Display: ~7.9‑ to 8‑inch 2K+ LTPO OLED display, 120 Hz refresh .
- Cover Screen: Approximately 6.45‑inch 2K LTPO OLED, likely 120 Hz .
- Battery: Large 6,000‑6,100 mAh silicon‑carbon cell—significantly improved over the V3’s 5,150 mAh .
- Charging: Retains 66 W fast‑charge, with certifications noting the upgraded battery chemistry .
- Cameras: Triple rear array featuring a primary wide, ultra‑wide, and a 200 MP periscope telephoto lens, maintaining or exceeding V3 camera prowess .
- Satellite Connectivity: Inclusion of Beidou satellite SMS support .
- Build & Durability: Likely IPX8-rated water resistance .
Competitive Landscape
When folded, the Oppo Find N5 leads with 8.9 mm thickness . Samsung’s Z Fold 7 is expected to match or slightly undercut this—speculated at 8.9 mm folded and 3.9–4.5 mm unfolded . Honor aims to outpace both through aggressive design trimming and advanced materials.
Battery capacity also favors Honor: the 6,000‑mAh pack surpasses anticipated Samsung and Oppo batteries, offering a potential advantage in endurance. Charging visuals suggest retained 66 W speeds, a balanced compromise between ultra-fast charging and thermal management .
Honor’s strategic timing—launching ahead of Galaxy Unpacked—reinforces its intent to steal the spotlight. Positioning as both advanced and ultra‑portable, the Magic V5 may resonate with users prioritizing design, performance, and productivity over brand ecosystem allegiance.
Event Details and Expectations
The launch event is scheduled for July 2, 2025, at 19:00 CST (local time in Shenzhen), equivalent to 2 PM UTC . Alongside the Magic V5, Honor may showcase related devices such as the MagicPad or updated wearables, especially centered around their growing AI‑centric MagicOS ecosystem
Live-streamed previews likely to detail full specs, pricing, and availability plans—initially targeting Mainland China, with a potential international expansion (e.g., at IFA Berlin in September) .
Significance and Outlook
The Magic V5 marks a maturation phase for foldable smartphones:
- Industrial Design: Pushing the limits of slimness without sacrificing structural integrity.
- Performance Edge: Bundling the top-tier Snapdragon variant with upgraded AI.
- Battery Innovation: Silicon‑carbon chemistry enables density within slim profiles.
- Photography & Connectivity: 200 MP periscope yet compact, plus satellite linkage options.
- Market Timing: Premiering before Samsung secures first-mover advantage.
These reinforce Honor’s commitment to innovation in the foldable segment and position Magic V5 as a benchmark contender in premium Android devices.
The Honor Magic V5 is set to debut on July 2, 2025, in China—marking a potential new standard in thin, powerful, AI‑equipped foldable technology. The event is expected to reveal further details on its advanced hardware, software features, and international rollout strategy.