Google Cuts Business Ties with Phone Maker Huawei as US-China Trade War Heightens

Alphabet Inc’s Google has cut business ties with Chinese phone manufacturer Huawei in what could be a major blow to the giant telecommunications firm.

The move means new designs of Huawei smartphones will not be able to access Google products such as Play Store, Gmail, and YouTube.

Google's decision comes days after President Trump's administration added Huawei to a list of firms that US companies cannot do business with unless they are given a license.

In a statement regarding the latest move, a Google spokesperson says the company is “complying with the [Trump] order and reviewing the implications.”

However, current holders of Huawei smartphones will continue to use and receive updates provided by Google.

“For users of our services, Google Play and the security protections from Google Play Protect will continue to function on existing Huawei devices,” Google spokesperson told Reuters.
 
Trump administration's move to add Huawei to a trade blacklist makes it extremely difficult for the Chinese company to conduct any business with US counterparts.

Huawei is yet to comment on the matter.