Huawei FreeClip 2 S and MatePad Air (2026) unveiled
At its event in Malaysia, Huawei presented not only its flagship Pura 90s series smartphones, but also the FreeClip 2 S Signature Edition and the MatePad Air (2026). Both models are less entirely new developments and more like revised versions.
Huawei FreeClip 2 S
Let’s start with the Huawei FreeClip 2 S earbuds, which still feature dual-diaphragm drivers, three microphones for noise cancellation, and up to 9 hours of playback time. Together with the charging case, this results in a total listening time of 38 hours.
New is the updated adaptive volume algorithm. The Huawei FreeClip 2 S earbuds utilize Huawei’s third-generation audio chip with a dedicated NPU for AI processing. This enables features such as real-time environment recognition and automatic adjustment of volume and voice during calls.
For example, the Huawei FreeClip 2 S earbuds detect ambient noise and adjust the volume accordingly. This is particularly useful for open-back earbuds like the FreeClip, as they don’t offer passive noise isolation and you often need to adjust the volume.
The color options are also new: The Huawei FreeClip 2 S are available in deep sea blue and space silver. Additionally, the new earbuds are available with extra clip-on ear tips from the French jewelry house Les Néréides. These give the FreeClip 2 S a completely new look, and the new charging case is slightly larger and designed to accommodate the clip-on ear tips.
Huawei MatePad Air (2026)
The Huawei MatePad Air (2026) offers only minor improvements over its 2025 predecessor. The most noticeable change is the display. It now features the same PaperMatte OLED display as the higher-end MatePad Pro series – the first display of this type for the MatePad Air range.
Thanks to its matte coating, the Huawei MatePad Air (2026) is ideal for both productive work and reading. This is a significant improvement over the LCD panels of previous generations. The screen still measures 12 inches diagonally and offers a 144 Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2800 x 1840 pixels. Alternatively, Huawei also offers the tablet without the PaperMatte display if you are on a budget.
The battery capacity remains unchanged – 10,100 mAh with 66-watt fast charging. The Kirin T93C chipset provides the necessary power and enables professional-level AI features that boost productivity and creativity.
Huawei also highlights several design changes, such as narrower bezels, a slimmer profile (5.3 mm), and new colors. These are Airy Blue, Sakura Pink, and White.
Prices
The Huawei FreeClip 2 S are available from July 14th to August 17th for £169, although the regular price is £199. There is also a limited bundle for £199 that includes a pair of Les Néréides clip-ons.
The Huawei MatePad Air (2026) is available in the 8/256 GB version without the PaperMatte display for €849 and comes with a keyboard. For €50 more, there’s the PaperMatte Edition, also with a keyboard or M-Pencil Pro – whichever you prefer. The 12 GB RAM version is slightly more expensive at €999 and only comes with a keyboard.
