Google has taken the decision to restrict Huawei from a number of Android updates.

Newer models of the Chinese tech giant’s smartphones will not be able to access selected apps created by Google.

The news follows US president Trump’s clamp down on Huawei, adding it to a list of firms with whom US companies cannot trade without a permit.

Google has explained that its moves are part of an effort to comply with Trump’s standards, and a review of the implications will follow.

For Huawei, it’s one more setback as it bids to integrate its technology further into overseas markets. The firm has said it will continue to release security updates after sales services to current Huawei and Honor smart devices have been sold.

“We will continue to build a safe and sustainable software ecosystem, in order to provide the best experience for all users globally,” Huawei said.

For current Huawei users, app updates and security patches will remain available, as will updates to Google Play services. However, when Google’s new Android OS is released later in 2019, it may not be available on all Huawei smartphones and tablets, while YouTube and Maps may also not be accessible on Huawei devices.

Huawei’s chief executive, Ren Zhengfei told Japanese media that the firm would continue to develop its own parts.

“We have already been preparing for this,” he said.

A number of countries have been voicing their concerns about relying on Huawei technology due to speculation that the company is used for spying by the Communist Party of China in power in Beijing.

Huwaei has always denied all accusations of espionage, sabotage and of any suggestion that its products pose a risk to 5G mobile infrastructures.

Ben Wood of CCS Insight consultancy told the BBC that Google’s stance would have “big implications for Huawei’s consumer business.”

“Huawei has been working hard on developing its own App Gallery and other software assets in a similar manner to its work on chipset solutions. There is little doubt these efforts are part of its desire to control its own destiny,” Mr Wood said.

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