Notebookcheck has published a review examining how Huawei's MatePad tablet performs in everyday use without Google services. The report, released on September 1, 2026, focuses on the practical experience of using the device as a daily driver when Google apps and services are unavailable.
The review comes as Huawei continues to ship tablets without Google Mobile Services due to ongoing restrictions. Notebookcheck's testing centers on how users manage core tasks—such as email, navigation, and app downloads—through alternative app stores and workarounds. The publication assesses whether the MatePad's hardware can compensate for the missing Google ecosystem.
According to Notebookcheck, the MatePad's daily usability hinges on Huawei's own AppGallery and third-party app sources. The review notes that while many popular apps are accessible, some Google-dependent features require manual setup or may not function fully. The report does not provide a single overall verdict in the available summary, but it details specific pain points and solutions for prospective buyers.
The MatePad is part of Huawei's broader tablet lineup, which has drawn attention for its hardware specifications. Recent reports from tech-ish.com highlight that the MatePad Pro is thinner and lighter than Apple's iPad Pro while packing a larger battery. Gizmochina has also teased a new MatePad Pro 12-inch model, set for a global launch on September 2, with a 4.7mm-thin body and 454g weight.
Looking ahead, Huawei's global launch of the MatePad Pro 2026 this week will likely reignite the question of how well its devices integrate into a Google-centric world. Notebookcheck's hands-on assessment offers an early benchmark for what users can expect.
