Photo: Not Zheng Xiaokang on Weibo
It's no longer a secret that tech companies plan to expand in the automotive space, and Xiaomi's electric vehicle proves that the strategy is real and happening.
However, the migration from one industry sector to another works both ways, with carmakers also planning to step into tech giants' territory.
While some car manufacturers have become more committed to first-party software, Polestar is boosting its tech efforts with a smartphone. We've known for a while that the device was in the works, but new evidence suggests that the launch is closer than we thought.
The folks at MySmartPrice discovered the Polestar Phone on the Google Play supported devices list. The references not only confirm the Polestar Phone's existence but also suggest that the automaker is now giving the finishing touches before the public launch. No specifics on the ETA are available now, but considering the MWC is around the corner, I wouldn't be surprised to see Polestar taking the stage to unveil its first step into the smartphone world.
MWC is one of the biggest events in the mobile world, with many brands, except for giants Samsung and Google, attending the show to take the wraps off their latest-generation devices. MWC opens its doors this year on February 26.
The Google Play Store references confirm that Meizu will manufacture the Polestar Phone. The partnership between Polestar and Meizu isn't surprising, as Chinese behemoth Geely owns both companies.
While Polestar sees the smartphone as a companion device for buyers of its EVs, the Polestar Phone could become a top alternative to flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The carmaker wants the device to sport high-end specifications, including a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 series chip. Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra is fitted with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and the same processor could also make its way to the Polestar Phone.
The device will likely sport a triple-camera setup on the back, a flat metal frame for improved durability and an exquisite look, and a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera. The Polestar Phone could launch only in a white version.
The most mysterious tidbit is the phone's availability. Meizu being in charge of its production could be a sign that the carmaker wants to launch the smartphone exclusively in China. However, Polestar's cars have also become increasingly popular in other markets, including Europe. Meizu phones are also available elsewhere, so I expect Polestar to aim for an international launch.
The device will launch with Android 14 but will run a custom version developed by Meizu. It will offer deep integration into Polestar models, including support for Flyme Auto, Meizu's car experience that makes the likes of Android Auto and CarPlay look ridiculous.
While some car manufacturers have become more committed to first-party software, Polestar is boosting its tech efforts with a smartphone. We've known for a while that the device was in the works, but new evidence suggests that the launch is closer than we thought.
The folks at MySmartPrice discovered the Polestar Phone on the Google Play supported devices list. The references not only confirm the Polestar Phone's existence but also suggest that the automaker is now giving the finishing touches before the public launch. No specifics on the ETA are available now, but considering the MWC is around the corner, I wouldn't be surprised to see Polestar taking the stage to unveil its first step into the smartphone world.
MWC is one of the biggest events in the mobile world, with many brands, except for giants Samsung and Google, attending the show to take the wraps off their latest-generation devices. MWC opens its doors this year on February 26.
The Google Play Store references confirm that Meizu will manufacture the Polestar Phone. The partnership between Polestar and Meizu isn't surprising, as Chinese behemoth Geely owns both companies.
While Polestar sees the smartphone as a companion device for buyers of its EVs, the Polestar Phone could become a top alternative to flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The carmaker wants the device to sport high-end specifications, including a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 series chip. Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra is fitted with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and the same processor could also make its way to the Polestar Phone.
The device will likely sport a triple-camera setup on the back, a flat metal frame for improved durability and an exquisite look, and a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera. The Polestar Phone could launch only in a white version.
The most mysterious tidbit is the phone's availability. Meizu being in charge of its production could be a sign that the carmaker wants to launch the smartphone exclusively in China. However, Polestar's cars have also become increasingly popular in other markets, including Europe. Meizu phones are also available elsewhere, so I expect Polestar to aim for an international launch.
The device will launch with Android 14 but will run a custom version developed by Meizu. It will offer deep integration into Polestar models, including support for Flyme Auto, Meizu's car experience that makes the likes of Android Auto and CarPlay look ridiculous.
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