Huawei is making significant strides in its strategic shift away from reliance on American software, particularly as it gears up to introduce alternatives to Microsoft Windows. This move comes in the wake of the U.S. Department of Commerce placing Huawei on its Entity List, which has curtailed the company’s access to essential software and services from American firms, including Google.
Since the introduction of its proprietary HarmonyOS in 2021, Huawei has been laying the groundwork for a more independent software ecosystem. Reports from Tom’s Hardware indicate that the company is now poised to launch its own desktop operating systems, driven by the impending expiration of a Microsoft license that permits Huawei to sell computers equipped with Windows. Given its status on the Entity List, the likelihood of Huawei receiving an extension for this license appears slim.
With limited options on the table, Huawei is expected to expand HarmonyOS into the realm of desktop and laptop PCs. This operating system is thought to be rooted in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), which serves as the foundation for Google’s Android. As Google continues to enhance Android’s desktop capabilities, it is likely that HarmonyOS will evolve to better compete with established desktop operating systems, particularly on tablets and hybrid devices. Additionally, Tom’s suggests that Huawei may explore various Linux distributions as viable alternatives to Windows.
The Impact On Microsoft
One of the less frequently discussed ramifications of Huawei’s situation is the potential impact on Microsoft’s market share. As one of China’s leading technology companies, Huawei boasts a strong presence with its smartphones and devices, which are widely favored in China and other global markets.
The necessity for Huawei to pivot away from Windows and develop its own desktop solutions could pose challenges for Microsoft, particularly in regions outside the United States. This shift may not only diminish Windows’ foothold but also create opportunities for Linux to gain traction. With many Linux distributions rapidly closing the functionality gap with Windows, users and businesses may find it increasingly feasible to transition to these alternatives, further reshaping the competitive landscape in the operating system market.
