The Huawei P9, released in 2016, was a flagship Android smartphone that garnered significant attention for its impressive camera capabilities, sleek design, and robust performance. However, with the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China, many potential buyers have been left wondering: does the Huawei P9 have Google? In this article, we will delve into the world of the Huawei P9, exploring its Google capabilities, the impact of the US trade ban, and what this means for users.
Understanding the Huawei P9’s Google Capabilities
When the Huawei P9 was first released, it came with Google services pre-installed, including the Google Play Store, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. These services were an integral part of the Android experience, providing users with access to a vast library of apps, navigation, and virtual assistance. The P9’s Google capabilities were on par with other Android smartphones of its time, making it an attractive option for those invested in the Google ecosystem.
The Impact of the US Trade Ban
In May 2019, the US government added Huawei to its Entity List, effectively banning American companies from doing business with the Chinese tech giant. This move had significant implications for Huawei’s future smartphones, including the P9. As a result of the ban, Google was forced to suspend its business with Huawei, which meant that the company could no longer license Google’s proprietary services, including the Google Play Store and Google Maps.
What Does This Mean for Huawei P9 Users?
For users who purchased the Huawei P9 before the trade ban, the impact was minimal. Their devices continued to function as usual, with access to Google services and the Google Play Store. However, for those who purchased the P9 after the ban, the story was different. New devices no longer came with Google services pre-installed, and users were forced to rely on alternative app stores and services.
Alternative App Stores and Services
In response to the US trade ban, Huawei developed its own app store, the AppGallery. The AppGallery offers a range of apps, including popular titles like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. However, the selection is limited compared to the Google Play Store, and many popular apps are missing.
Workarounds for Google Services
While the Huawei P9 may not come with Google services pre-installed, there are workarounds for users who still want to access these services. For example, users can sideload Google apps, such as the Google Play Store and Google Maps, onto their device. However, this process can be complex and may require technical expertise.
Third-Party App Stores
Another option for Huawei P9 users is to use third-party app stores, such as the Amazon Appstore or the Aptoide app store. These stores offer a range of apps, including some popular titles, but the selection is limited compared to the Google Play Store.
Is the Huawei P9 Still a Viable Option?
Despite the limitations imposed by the US trade ban, the Huawei P9 remains a capable smartphone. Its camera capabilities, performance, and design are still impressive, making it a viable option for those who are not heavily invested in the Google ecosystem.
Pros and Cons
Before making a decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a Huawei P9.
Pros:
- Impressive camera capabilities
- Sleek design
- Robust performance
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited app selection
- No Google services pre-installed
- Workarounds for Google services can be complex
Who is the Huawei P9 Suitable For?
The Huawei P9 is suitable for users who:
- Are not heavily invested in the Google ecosystem
- Are looking for an affordable smartphone with impressive camera capabilities
- Are willing to use alternative app stores and services
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Huawei P9 does not come with Google services pre-installed, due to the US trade ban. However, this does not mean that the device is not viable. With workarounds for Google services and alternative app stores, users can still access a range of apps and services. While the Huawei P9 may not be the best option for those heavily invested in the Google ecosystem, it remains a capable smartphone that offers impressive camera capabilities, sleek design, and robust performance at an affordable price point.
Final Thoughts
The Huawei P9’s story serves as a reminder of the complexities of the global tech industry. As trade tensions between the US and China continue to escalate, the impact on consumers and businesses will only continue to grow. As we move forward, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape of the tech world.
| Device | Google Services | App Store |
|---|---|---|
| Huawei P9 (pre-ban) | Yes | Google Play Store |
| Huawei P9 (post-ban) | No | AppGallery |
Note: The information in this article is accurate as of the knowledge cutoff date (01 March 2023). However, the situation may have changed since then, and it’s essential to verify the information before making any purchasing decisions.
Does the Huawei P9 have Google services?
The Huawei P9, released in 2016, does come with Google services pre-installed. As an Android smartphone, it was designed to work seamlessly with Google’s ecosystem, including the Google Play Store, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. However, it’s essential to note that the availability of Google services may vary depending on the region and country where the device was purchased.
Users who purchased the Huawei P9 in regions where Google services were available could access and use these services without any issues. However, users in regions where Google services were restricted or not available might have faced difficulties in accessing these services. It’s also worth mentioning that the Huawei P9 received regular software updates, which ensured that the device remained secure and feature-rich throughout its lifespan.
What Android version does the Huawei P9 run on?
The Huawei P9 was launched with Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box. However, the device was later updated to Android 7.0 Nougat, which brought several new features and improvements to the device. The update to Android 7.0 Nougat was rolled out to users in various regions, and it was available for download via the device’s settings menu.
Although the Huawei P9 did not receive further major Android updates beyond Android 7.0 Nougat, the device continued to receive security patches and minor updates to ensure its security and stability. The device’s software was also optimized to provide a smooth user experience, despite the limitations of its hardware.
Can I install Google services on my Huawei P9 if they are not pre-installed?
Yes, it is possible to install Google services on the Huawei P9, even if they are not pre-installed. Users can download and install the Google Play Store and other Google services from the Huawei AppGallery or by sideloading the APK files from a trusted source. However, this method may not be recommended, as it may pose security risks to the device.
Alternatively, users can also try installing a custom ROM on their Huawei P9, which can provide access to Google services. However, this method requires technical expertise and may void the device’s warranty. It’s essential to note that installing Google services on a device that does not have them pre-installed may not provide the same seamless experience as a device that comes with Google services out of the box.
What are the alternatives to Google services on the Huawei P9?
For users who do not have access to Google services on their Huawei P9, there are several alternatives available. For example, the Huawei AppGallery provides a range of apps that can be downloaded and installed on the device. Additionally, users can also use third-party app stores, such as the Amazon Appstore or the Aptoide store.
Furthermore, users can also use alternative services, such as Microsoft’s Bing search engine or the DuckDuckGo search engine, instead of Google Search. Similarly, users can use alternative mapping services, such as Here Maps or Waze, instead of Google Maps. While these alternatives may not provide the same experience as Google services, they can still provide a functional and usable experience.
How do I update my Huawei P9 to the latest software version?
To update the Huawei P9 to the latest software version, users can go to the device’s settings menu and select the “System update” option. The device will then check for available updates and prompt the user to download and install the update. Users can also check for updates manually by going to the Huawei website and downloading the update package.
It’s essential to note that the availability of software updates may vary depending on the region and country where the device was purchased. Additionally, users should ensure that their device is connected to a stable internet connection and has sufficient battery life before attempting to update the software.
Can I root my Huawei P9 to gain access to Google services?
Yes, it is possible to root the Huawei P9 to gain access to Google services. However, rooting the device may void its warranty and pose security risks. Rooting the device also requires technical expertise and may not be recommended for novice users.
Additionally, rooting the device may not guarantee access to Google services, as the device’s hardware and software configuration may still pose limitations. Furthermore, rooting the device may also compromise its security and stability, which may lead to other issues. Therefore, users should carefully weigh the risks and benefits before attempting to root their Huawei P9.
Is the Huawei P9 still a good option for users who want a device with Google services?
The Huawei P9 is an older device that was released in 2016, and while it may still be a good option for users who want a device with Google services, it may not be the best option. The device’s hardware and software may not be as up-to-date as newer devices, and it may not receive further software updates or security patches.
Additionally, the device’s availability and pricing may vary depending on the region and country. Users who want a device with Google services may want to consider newer devices that come with the latest software and hardware features. However, for users who are looking for a budget-friendly option with Google services, the Huawei P9 may still be a viable option.