From AI robots, to coding for kids, AI innovations and smart accessories.
![Honor alpha global flagship store in China an AI smart living innovation hub [VIDEO]](https://media.citizen.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Honor-Alpha-flagship-store-China.jpeg)
HONOR’s alpha global flagship store at Shenzhen Bay has positioned the retail space as an “AI Smart Living Innovation Hub”.
Officially opened in September 2025, the store showcases cutting-edge technology converging with cultural inspiration.
The Alpha Plan was first announced at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona in 2025. It underscored HONOR’s evolution from a smartphone manufacturer into a global AI device ecosystem.
AI
The Citizen recently visited the store, which showcased a layout intuitively organised around core AI-powered living scenarios.
From AI robots to coding for kids and AI innovations, the store is a screenshot of what the future looks like.
A dedicated YOYO Zone showcases HONOR’s AI assistant across four functional themes: AI lifestyle, AI assistance, AI content creation, and AI companionship.
Another highlight was the AI Inspiration Café, a social space designed for technologists, creators, and visitors to connect over coffee and exchange ideas.
There were also technicians and robots to assist with screen protectors and smartphone repairs for visitors.
ALSO READ: HONOR to cement footprint in SA with store to showcase products
Magic 8 series
During the visit to HONOR’s HQ in Shenzhen, The Citizen also got a preview of the new Magic 8 series launched on October 15.
The series included the Magic 8 and Magic 8 Pro, alongside new wearables.
While South Africa is a first-tier market for HONOR, it will have to wait for users to get their hands on the smartphones.
What about SA?
The company’s South Africa marketing director, Mark Lei, explained that the delay is due to the need to adapt the software for different global markets, which includes the development of the Google Gemini-powered smartphone, which differs from the Chinese version’s internal AI.
“Due to difficulties, you have to start with the Chinese market first because there are few R&D engineers available. I work with individuals two years in advance.
“They focus all of their efforts on the Chinese market, and once it’s nearly finished, they usually turn to the international market to get the program ready. Therefore, it often takes four to six months,” Lei said.
Robot phone
While HONOR faces intense challenges from Chinese competitors, including its former brother Huawei, with innovative technology like the world’s first trifold smartphone, HONOR has taken a giant leap in smartphone technology.
Among the standout innovations is the HONOR Robot Phone, a concept device that merges mobile technology with robotics to create a dynamic, interactive companion capable of movement, gestures, and facial expressions.
ALSO READ: HONOR 400 and 400 Pro showcase advanced AI capabilities
Content supplied by our select Partners and paid for content ad advertisement.
