Honor 400 Series: A Mid-Range Marvel with Flagship-Level Software Support
The Honor 400 series is generating buzz, not just for its capable mid-range specs, but for its exceptional software support. While many phones promise updates for a couple of years, Honor is committing to a full six years of Android updates for the 400 series, including the highly anticipated Android 16.
This commitment places Honor among the leaders in long-term software support, rivaling even Samsung’s seven-year promise and surpassing many other manufacturers. This extended support means users can expect their Honor 400 to receive updates until Android 21 in 2031, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches for years to come.
Two Models, Distinct Appeal
The lineup consists of the Honor 400 and 400 Pro. The Honor 400 Pro, priced at £699.99 / €799 (around $900), boasts a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset from 2023, a vibrant 6.7-inch AMOLED screen, IP68 and 69 ratings for water and dust resistance, and a large 5,300mAh battery (or even larger 6,000mAh outside Europe). The camera setup is also impressive, featuring a 200-megapixel main shooter, along with ultrawide and telephoto lenses.
The standard Honor 400, at £399.99 / €499 (around $560), offers a more affordable option with a smaller 6.5-inch display and straight edges, making it more comfortable to hold. It shares the same main and ultrawide cameras as the Pro model but foregoes the telephoto lens. While its IP65 water resistance is less comprehensive and it uses a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, the large battery paired with the smaller screen promises excellent battery life. The major difference is lack of wireless charging.
AI-Powered Innovation: The Image-to-Video Magic
Beyond the impressive specs and long-term support, the Honor 400 Pro also incorporates an intriguing AI-powered image-to-video tool. This feature uses Google's Veo 2 AI model to transform still images into 5-second video clips. While the results can be unpredictable and sometimes even emotionally charged, the novelty and potential of this feature highlight Honor's commitment to innovation.
Andrew Lanxon from CNET shared a personal experience, stating, "Seeing him brought to life like this felt...complicated." This emotional resonance underscores the unique impact this AI feature can have.
A Strong Contender in the Mid-Range Market
While the Honor 400 Pro positions itself closer to the flagship territory, the base Honor 400 stands out as a compelling alternative to the Pixel 9A and Galaxy A56. With its competitive price, robust features, and industry-leading software support, the Honor 400 is poised to be a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market.
Will the promise of six years of updates and innovative AI features be enough to sway consumers? The Honor 400 series presents a compelling package. What are your thoughts? Share your opinions in the comments below!
