Adapted by:
Ricardo Aguilar
WriterMobile tech writer and analyst. I studied Psychology, but I've been working in the consumer tech field for the last 10 years. Interested in motor projects and new forms of mobility.
Alba Mora
WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
Huawei is coming full circle. Its licensing agreement with Microsoft to use Windows is expiring soon, and it can’t renew it due to U.S. sanctions. As such, the company faces two potential solutions. The first step was to introduce Linux laptops to the market. The second is to fully commit to launching laptops with its own operating system.
A new desktop OS. On Thursday, Huawei announced the official launch of HarmonyOS for PCs. Zhu Dongdong, Huawei’s PC product line president, presented the system’s structure and future plans at the HarmonyOS Computer Technology and Ecosystem Communication event.
HarmonyOS PC represents a significant strategic move for Huawei. It’s the company’s first fully owned response to Windows and a bold statement against the U.S.
HarmonyOS PC. Huawei’s new desktop OS adheres to the same philosophy that the company employs with HarmonyOS Next. The operating system is built from the ground up, based on HarmonyOS and its own kernel. Additionally, it’s designed to interoperate seamlessly with phones, tablets, headsets, and even electric cars that use the software.
Huawei has also focused on ensuring compatibility with third-party devices. This means that peripherals such as printers, scanners, and other accessories will work smoothly, just like they would with any other operating system.
Core principles. HarmonyOS PC is centered on three key pillars: design, performance, and security. The design language will align with HarmonyOS’ phone version, using the proprietary Ark engine developed by Huawei. This engine is meant to be integrated into HarmonyOS Next and includes the Ark Compiler, Ark UI, and Ark Graphics. They’re all essential elements for building and running a custom interface.
In terms of security, the system is designed to be used in conjunction with a Huawei account. It features functions to locate your device and developer verification systems to ensure app security. HarmonyOS PC even has a privacy mode that disables camera, mic, and location permissions throughout the system.
Apps. HarmonyOS PC features more than 2,000 universal apps. The initial launch phase is primarily targeting the Asian market, with the company’s collaborations also focused there.
Outside China. It won’t be easy for Huawei to bring HarmonyOS beyond its home country. Due to current restrictions, the company can’t partner with Microsoft and Google, making it impossible to integrate their apps into the App Gallery. However, nothing stops users from downloading apps independently as many already do on phones. Still, Huawei will need to provide solid alternatives to popular software products.
A strategic move. The launch of HarmonyOS PC was a natural progression in Huawei’s strategy. The company is developing its own chips for PCs and has successfully established domestic manufacturing for phone processors. With HarmonyOS Next, Huawei seems to be moving toward complete independence from external agents.
Only time will tell whether Huawei can successfully expand this ambitious plan beyond China. What’s clear is that the company is taking comprehensive steps to create its own alternative ecosystem.
Image | Huawei
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