Chinese smartphone manufacturer Honor has announced it is developing a groundbreaking smartphone featuring a camera that folds out using a robotic arm. The company revealed its plans on Wednesday, describing the upcoming device as a “robot phone” that will integrate artificial intelligence in both hardware and software. More details are expected to be released at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona early next year.
A New Concept in Smartphone Design
Honor’s upcoming “robot phone” marks one of the most radical shifts in smartphone design since the advent of foldable screens. The company says the device will feature a robotic arm mechanism that allows the camera to extend and reposition itself, offering users greater flexibility for photography and videography. Although technical specifications remain undisclosed, the integration of robotics and AI suggests a focus on automation, adaptive framing, and advanced motion sensing.
The concept reflects a broader trend among Chinese technology firms seeking to redefine conventional device design through robotics and artificial intelligence. Earlier this year, Beijing-based Roborock launched a robot vacuum equipped with a folding mechanical arm that uses AI and sensors to detect and remove obstructions — a similar fusion of mobility and intelligence that appears to have inspired Honor’s approach.
Artificial Intelligence at the Core
In addition to the innovative hardware, Honor plans to enhance the user experience with AI-powered software capabilities. The company said its current lineup of AI tools already allows smartphone users to perform a range of intelligent tasks — including scanning Chinese e-commerce platforms for personalized shopping deals, quickly booking taxis, and receiving real-time photography guidance for optimal camera positioning.
The new device will likely extend these features by incorporating generative and contextual AI systems, positioning Honor among the growing list of Chinese companies transitioning toward fully AI-integrated consumer products. According to the company, its AI strategy aims to make smartphones more adaptive, efficient, and context-aware in daily use.
Investment and Strategic Vision
Honor confirmed it will invest $10 billion over the next five years as part of a company-wide transformation into an AI-driven device manufacturer. The investment will support research and development in robotics, on-device machine learning, and cross-platform AI ecosystems.
This move aligns with China’s broader push to become a global leader in artificial intelligence and consumer electronics innovation. By blending robotics and AI in mobile devices, Honor seeks to differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive smartphone market dominated by Apple, Samsung, and domestic rival Huawei.
Honor’s announcement signals a bold step toward the convergence of robotics and mobile technology. If successful, the company’s “robot phone” could redefine how users interact with smartphones, merging intelligent automation with everyday convenience. As the company prepares for its official reveal at MWC 2026, the industry will be watching closely to see whether Honor’s ambitious AI vision can set a new benchmark for smart devices worldwide.