Huawei is back in the spotlight with its Nova 13 Pro — and no, this isn’t just about the slick design or powerful camera. What really has people talking is how easy it now is to access Google apps and other everyday favorites, even without Google Play Store onboard. Sounds too good to be true? Let’s break it down.
Wait… Huawei and Google Apps? Isn’t That a Problem?
If you’ve followed smartphone news over the past few years, you probably remember that new Huawei devices don’t come with built-in Google Mobile Services (GMS), thanks to trade restrictions. That means no pre-installed Gmail, YouTube, Maps, or Play Store. And for a while, this made life tough for Huawei users outside China — especially those used to Google everything.
But fast forward to 2025, and things have seriously changed. Huawei has developed solid workarounds, and the Nova 13 Pro is proof that getting your favorite apps back is no longer a headache.
Meet AppGallery — Huawei’s Own App Store
AppGallery, the official app shop for Huawei, has experienced significant growth. As of now, it’s the third-largest app store globally, and it’s no longer just filled with random utility apps — you’ll find big names like TikTok, Snapchat, Telegram, Shopee, Lazada, and even banking apps depending on your region.
Still, some major apps like Gmail or Google Maps aren’t natively there — which brings us to the real game changer…
GBox: The Clever Shortcut to Google Apps
Here’s where things get interesting. Huawei uses a tool called GBox, available right in AppGallery. It’s a lightweight sandbox that lets you install and run Google apps — including Gmail, YouTube, Google Maps, Google Drive, Meet, and even Docs and Sheets — without the usual fuss.
Getting Google Apps on Your Huawei Nova 13 Pro:
- Open AppGallery and search for “GBox”.
- Install GBox and follow the guided setup.
- Sign in with your Google account — GBox handles the magic in the background using a framework called microG, which basically mimics the functions of Google Play Services.
- Once you’re in, you can install apps like YouTube, Gmail, Maps, and others directly through GBox.
No complicated APKs. No risky sideloading. Just tap, install, and go.
What About App Updates and Security?
One of the biggest concerns users had early on was app safety and update frequency. The good news: All apps downloaded via AppGallery and GBox go through a multi-layer security scan. Plus, GBox automatically manages updates for installed apps.
Huawei has clearly put effort into ensuring the experience is smooth, especially for users who just want things to “work like they used to.”
But That’s Not All — Petal Search and Phone Clone Make Life Even Easier
Huawei provides Petal Search, an intelligent app discovery engine that searches several sources and assists you in safely locating verified APKs, in addition to AppGallery and GBox. Then there’s Phone Clone, which lets you copy over apps, data, and settings from your old Android device in minutes — no cables, no cloud needed.
These tools are especially handy for long-time Huawei users who are upgrading from older models or switching from another brand.
Nova 13 Pro: Great Hardware, Too
Of course, this whole experience is wrapped in a seriously capable phone:
- 6.76-inch OLED display with ultra-slim bezels
- Low-light-shining 100MP Ultra Vision Camera
- With 100W quick charging, you can go from 0% to 100% in just 30 minutes!
- Sleek design, available in stunning gradient colors
Whether you’re shooting reels, joining Zoom calls, or just bingeing Netflix, the Nova 13 Pro delivers the kind of flagship performance that makes it more than just a pretty face.
Final Thoughts: Huawei’s Got Its Groove Back
Yes, things were bumpy when Google support first disappeared. But now? With tools like GBox, Petal Search, and a beefed-up AppGallery, Huawei has built a solid ecosystem that feels familiar — even without the Play Store.
Jumping in is now easier than ever for new users. And for devoted Huawei supporters? The upgrade you’ve been waiting for could be this one.
