The Huawweii Mate 65: A Fake Phone Flooding the Kenyan Market
The Kenyan smartphone market, a vibrant hub for affordable and premium devices, is increasingly targeted by counterfeit products. Among these, the so-called “Huawweii Mate 65” has emerged as a prevalent fake phone, exploiting the reputation of Huawei’s Mate series. This article explains why the Huawweii Mate 65 is a counterfeit device, identifies the original Huawei model it attempts to emulate, and provides practical guidance for Kenyan consumers to avoid purchasing fake phones. Additionally, we’ll share links to trusted retailers where authentic Huawei smartphones can be purchased.
Why the Huawweii Mate 65 Is a Fake Phone
The Huawweii Mate 65 is not a legitimate model in Huawei’s official product lineup, managed by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Several factors confirm its counterfeit status:
- Misspelled Brand Name:
The name “Huawweii” with an extra “w” and “i” is a clear indicator of a fake. The authentic brand is spelled “Huawei.” Counterfeiters often use slight variations in spelling to mimic the original brand while evading legal scrutiny, relying on convincing packaging and logos to deceive buyers. For example, a 2019 report highlighted a fake Huawei P30 Pro with “HWEI” branding, a tactic similar to “Huawweii.” - Non-Existent Model:
Huawei’s Mate series includes models like the Mate 60, Mate 60 Pro, Mate 70, and Mate 70 Pro, as verified on Huawei’s official website (consumer.huawei.com). There is no Mate 65 in Huawei’s catalog. Counterfeiters create fictitious model names like “Mate 65” to capitalize on the Mate series’ popularity, confusing consumers expecting advanced features. - Substandard Build and Specifications:
Fake Huawweii Mate 65 phones typically feature inferior materials, such as cheap plastic bodies, low-resolution displays, and weak processors. These devices may mimic the Mate series’ sleek design or camera layout but deliver poor performance, with issues like lagging, pixelated screens, or subpar camera quality. For instance, fake Huawei devices often use low-quality glass or plastic instead of Huawei’s Kunlun Glass, as noted in reports on counterfeit phones. - Inauthentic Software and Security Risks:
Genuine Huawei phones run on HarmonyOS (e.g., HarmonyOS 4.0 for the Mate 60 series) or EMUI for older models, offering a secure and optimized experience. Fake Huawweii Mate 65 devices often use generic or modified Android versions, sometimes embedded with malware or intrusive ads, posing significant security risks. A 2015 report by G Data Software alleged that some Huawei phones were shipped with malware, likely introduced in the supply chain, a common issue with counterfeits. These fakes lack Huawei’s ecosystem integration, such as AppGallery support, and fail to receive official updates. - Proliferation in Kenya:
Kenya’s smartphone market is a hotspot for counterfeit devices, with up to 40% of phones estimated to be fake, costing the economy millions in evaded taxes. Huawei holds a 7.2% market share in Kenya, but counterfeit phones, including those mimicking the Mate series, are widely distributed through unregulated channels like street vendors, unverified online marketplaces (e.g., Facebook Marketplace, Jiji.co.ke), and questionable listings on platforms like Alibaba, which explicitly advertise “fake Huawei phones.” The Huawweii Mate 65 exploits Huawei’s reputation, targeting consumers seeking premium devices at low prices.
The Original Phone the Huawweii Mate 65 Is Trying to Emulate
The fake Huawweii Mate 65 likely attempts to emulate the Huawei Mate 60 Pro, a high-end smartphone released in August 2023 as part of Huawei’s Mate series. The Mate 60 Pro is known for its advanced 7nm Kirin 9000S chip, 5G connectivity, and satellite communication capabilities, making it a flagship device and a prime target for counterfeiters. The “Mate 65” name is a fabricated variation to mimic the Mate 60 Pro, confusing buyers unfamiliar with Huawei’s model lineup. Below are the key specifications of the authentic Huawei Mate 60 Pro for comparison:
- Display: 6.82-inch LTPO OLED, 1260 x 2720 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate, Huawei Kunlun Glass 2
- Processor: Kirin 9000S (7nm), Octa-core (1×2.62 GHz, 3×2.15 GHz, 4×1.53 GHz)
- RAM/Storage: 12GB/256GB, 12GB/512GB, or 12GB/1TB, expandable via NM card
- Camera: Triple rear setup (50MP main with f/1.4–f/4.0 variable aperture + 12MP ultra-wide + 48MP telephoto), 13MP front camera with 3D TOF
- Battery: 5000mAh with 88W fast charging, 50W wireless charging
- OS: HarmonyOS 4.0 (China) or EMUI (global)
- Other Features: 5G support, satellite call and SMS, IP68 water and dust resistance, in-display fingerprint sensor
- Price in Kenya: Approximately KSh 93,175–120,000 (based on international pricing from Kimovil, adjusted for Kenya)
The fake Huawweii Mate 65 may mimic the Mate 60 Pro’s design, such as its circular camera module or large OLED display, but it typically features inferior components, such as LCD screens, weaker chipsets, and poor cameras. Counterfeiters may falsely advertise 5G or satellite connectivity, which are either non-functional or absent in fakes, as noted in reports of counterfeit Huawei devices.
Why the Fake Huawweii Mate 65 Is Flooding the Kenyan Market
Several factors contribute to the proliferation of fake Huawweii Mate 65 phones in Kenya:
- Huawei’s Popularity in Kenya:
Huawei’s Mate series is highly regarded for its premium features and competitive pricing, with a 7.2% market share in Kenya. Counterfeiters exploit this by producing fake models like the Huawweii Mate 65, leveraging the Mate brand’s prestige to deceive consumers seeking flagship devices. - Price-Sensitive Market:
Genuine Huawei Mate 60 Pro phones are priced at around KSh 93,175–120,000, making them unaffordable for many. Fake Huawweii Mate 65 phones are sold at significantly lower prices (e.g., KSh 20,000–40,000), appealing to budget-conscious buyers looking for a “deal” on a premium brand. - Unregulated Sales Channels:
Counterfeit phones are distributed through street vendors, unofficial retailers, or unverified online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Jiji.co.ke, or Alibaba, which list “fake Huawei phones” explicitly. These channels lack proper documentation or warranties, enabling the spread of fakes. The ACA’s seizures of counterfeit phones in Nairobi highlight the issue’s scale. - Consumer Unawareness:
Many buyers are unaware of how to verify a phone’s authenticity, especially when counterfeiters use convincing packaging. The misspelling of “Huawweii” and the fictitious “Mate 65” name may go unnoticed, particularly by first-time buyers or those unfamiliar with Huawei’s lineup. Reports note that counterfeit Huawei phones often feature subtle branding errors, like “LEIOA” instead of “LEICA” on camera lenses, which consumers may overlook.
How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones in Kenya
To protect yourself from purchasing a counterfeit Huawweii Mate 65 or other fake smartphones, follow these practical steps, informed by Huawei’s official guidelines and industry best practices:
- Verify the IMEI and Serial Number:
Every smartphone has a unique 15-digit IMEI and serial number. To confirm authenticity:
- Dial *#06# on the phone to display the IMEI.
- Text the IMEI to 1555, a free service provided by the Communications Authority of Kenya, to verify the phone’s legitimacy. You’ll receive an SMS with the phone’s make and model (e.g., Huawei Mate 60 Pro).
- Visit Huawei’s official verification website (consumer.huawei.com) or contact Huawei support to enter the IMEI and VC number (found on the box or under the battery compartment, if applicable). A genuine Huawei phone will display its model and warranty status.
- Ensure the IMEI matches the number on the box, receipt, and in Settings > About Phone. Discrepancies or invalid numbers indicate a fake. Be cautious, as some fakes use cloned IMEI numbers, so additional checks are essential.
- Purchase from Authorized Retailers:
Buy Huawei phones only from reputable stores or Huawei-authorized resellers. Avoid street vendors or unverified online sellers, such as those on Facebook Marketplace, Jiji.co.ke, or Alibaba, which openly advertise “fake Huawei phones.” Trusted retailers provide warranties and authentic products. Huawei recommends purchasing from their local stores or authorized partners to ensure authenticity. See the list of stores below. - Check Specifications and Software:
Research the phone’s specifications on Huawei’s official website (consumer.huawei.com) before purchasing. Ensure the device runs HarmonyOS (e.g., HarmonyOS 4.0 for the Mate 60 Pro) or EMUI and matches the listed specs, such as the 50MP camera or Kirin 9000S processor. Be cautious of phones with generic Android interfaces, pre-installed apps with ads, or outdated software, as these are common in fakes. Test Huawei-specific features like AppGallery or satellite connectivity (if applicable). Use apps like CPU-Z or Device Info HW after a factory reset to verify hardware specifications. - Inspect Build Quality and Packaging:
Genuine Huawei phones feature premium materials like Kunlun Glass 2 and precise branding. Look for signs of a fake, such as:
- Misspelled branding (e.g., “Huawweii” instead of “Huawei” or “LEIOA” instead of “LEICA” on the camera)
- Low-quality packaging with blurry printing, flat seals, or spelling errors
- Low-resolution or LCD displays instead of OLED
- Cheap plastic builds or misaligned logos
- Compare the box and phone with images on Huawei’s website. Genuine Huawei boxes use high-quality printing and include formal labels with the manufacturer’s logo and product information.
- Test Hardware and Camera:
The Mate 60 Pro is known for its advanced camera system and performance. Test the camera by taking photos or videos; blurry or low-quality results indicate a fake. Check connectivity (e.g., 5G, Wi-Fi) and battery performance, as fake phones often have inferior components. Dial #0# to access diagnostic modes (if supported) to test hardware. Verify HarmonyOS features like Dynamic Island-style notifications or satellite calling, which fakes cannot replicate. - Demand a Warranty and Receipt:
Authentic Huawei phones come with a one-year warranty and a proper receipt. Verify the warranty status on Huawei’s website and ensure the receipt matches the phone’s details, including the model (Mate 60 Pro) and IMEI. Fake receipts or missing warranties are red flags. Huawei emphasizes checking for an authorization certificate from retailers if in doubt. - Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Prices:
If a “Huawweii Mate 65” is priced significantly lower than the Mate 60 Pro (e.g., KSh 30,000 vs. KSh 93,175), it’s likely a fake. Compare prices with trusted retailers to ensure fairness. Listings on platforms like Alibaba or eBay for “Huawei dummy phones” at low prices are clear scams.
Where to Buy the Original Huawei Mate 60 Pro in Kenya
To ensure you’re purchasing an authentic Huawei Mate 60 Pro or other genuine Huawei phones, shop at these trusted retailers. Note that the Mate 60 Pro is primarily sold in China, but international availability may be limited due to U.S. sanctions affecting Huawei’s global supply chain. Authorized resellers in Kenya can source genuine units:
- Jumia Kenya (www.jumia.co.ke):
Jumia offers a range of Huawei smartphones, including Mate series models, with warranties and cash-on-delivery options. The Mate 60 Pro is priced around KSh 93,175–120,000 (based on international pricing). - Phone Place Kenya (www.phoneplacekenya.com):
Phone Place Kenya stocks genuine Huawei phones, including the Mate 60 Pro (subject to availability), with fast delivery (1–2 hours in Nairobi, 24 hours countrywide) and warranties. - Phones Store Kenya (phonesstorekenya.com):
Phones Store Kenya provides authentic Huawei devices, including Mate series models, with competitive prices and fast delivery. - Patabay Kenya (patabay.co.ke):
Patabay offers genuine Huawei phones, including the Mate 60 Pro (subject to availability), with payment on delivery in Nairobi and nationwide shipping. - Gadgets Leo (gadgetsleo.com):
Gadgets Leo provides authentic Huawei phones with online ordering and same-day delivery in Nairobi, expected to stock the Mate 60 Pro if available. - Huawei Official Website (consumer.huawei.com):
Visit Huawei’s official website to find a list of authorized resellers in Kenya or explore purchasing options directly. Huawei recommends checking for authorized retailers or consulting service centers for authenticity verification.
Before purchasing, confirm the phone model (Huawei Mate 60 Pro, not Huawweii Mate 65) and verify its authenticity using the IMEI check and other methods outlined above. Due to limited global availability, ensure the retailer sources directly from Huawei or authorized distributors.
Conclusion
The Huawweii Mate 65 is a counterfeit smartphone that does not exist in Huawei’s official lineup, likely designed to mimic the legitimate Huawei Mate 60 Pro. Its proliferation in the Kenyan market exploits Huawei’s reputation and the demand for premium smartphones, but these fakes offer poor performance, security risks, and no official support. To avoid such scams, Kenyan consumers should verify the IMEI on Huawei’s verification website, purchase from trusted retailers like Jumia, Phone Place Kenya, or Huawei-authorized stores, and inspect the device for signs of authenticity. By staying vigilant and informed, you can confidently invest in genuine Huawei smartphones that deliver the quality, performance, and innovation the brand is known for.
LULU MAISHA MAGIC PLUS SEASON 1 EPISODE 67 TUESDAY AUGUST 5TH 2025 FULL EPISODE