Cover Image for This phone excels at selfies, but I can't recommend it.
Sat Jan 18 2025

This phone excels at selfies, but I can't recommend it.

The front cameras of the Huawei Nova 13 Pro are exceptional, just like the rear camera. However, I can't fully commit to this device.

The Huawei Nova 13 Pro primarily stands out in capturing selfies and creating vlogs, although the quality of its photos is not limited to the author's self-portraits. This device has demonstrated that Huawei maintains its competitiveness in photography, although it may not be the best choice for everyone.

In terms of selfies, the Nova 13 Pro's screen features a large oval cutout that houses two cameras: a main 60-megapixel autofocus camera and an 8-megapixel portrait camera with 2x optical zoom. The capability to record video in 4K makes it an ideal tool for those interested in vlogging. The camera app offers various shooting modes, including manual zoom up to 5x, as well as typical features like portrait mode and beauty mode, complemented by an eye-tracking system that enhances focus. Images taken in 1x and wide-angle modes are impressive, with abundant detail and notable color balance. However, the 2x mode faces challenges, yielding blurry images due to excessive closeness.

Regarding the rear camera, the device has three cameras: a 50-megapixel main camera, a 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and an 8-megapixel wide-angle camera. Its appeal lies in the manual aperture control, allowing adjustments from f/1.4 to f/4.0. Photographs taken with the main camera are vibrant, showcasing excellent color and exposure management. However, the zoom options are inconsistent, with results varying from sharp to blurry without any apparent reason.

The software presents an additional challenge as this device does not include Google Play Services, meaning applications must be downloaded via the Huawei AppGallery. While manageable, the EMUI system can be problematic. For example, changing wallpapers requires granting permissions in the settings, which can be frustrating. Additionally, issues like the unexpected closure of the camera app due to permission problems and the activation of the "child" mode in the AppGallery for no apparent reason generate distrust in the daily use of the device.

In summary, while the Huawei Nova 13 Pro offers high-quality cameras and an appealing design, the software experience can be a significant obstacle. For those willing to adapt or who are already outside the Google ecosystem, the device may be attractive. Otherwise, there are many other smartphones that might be better suited for those seeking a simpler, hassle-free experience.