HarmonyOS NEXT vs Android
Huawei is taking steps to make its devices independent of foreign components and operating systems. The phone, watch, and tablet section is already reserved for HarmonyOS NEXT. After parting ways with Android, Huawei seems to be setting its sights on removing Windows from China.
At the beginning of this year, Huawei unveiled HarmonyOS NEXT – a genuine operating system free from U.S.-based components and Android. The goal is to challenge the dominance of foreign operating systems in the local market.
The official information reveals that Huawei eliminated all source code related to Android or Linux and integrated self-developed components into its new operating system. HarmonyOS NEXT includes various base elements such as Pangu AI model, ArkUI-X programming framework, HarmonyOS Design, MindSpore AI Framework, Harmony kernel, Ark Compiler, Cangjie language, and DevEco Studio.
Huawei has also shifted away from the Android Open Source Project in favor of a custom OS architecture. This means that HarmonyOS NEXT will not support Google or Android-compatible apps in the future, but it will enhance the performance of Huawei devices.
The company has already started collaborating with several app developers to adapt Android alternative apps for HarmonyOS-based native versions. Some game apps are set to be introduced on July 26, along with popular applications like WeChat, Bilibili, Taobao, Yiche, and more.
HarmonyOS PC vs Windows: Huawei’s next goal?
In addition to HarmonyOS NEXT, Huawei is working on a computer-specific software called HarmonyOS PC. Former Huawei executive Wang Chenglu mentioned last year that the company is developing a new PC software that could potentially launch in 2024.
Recent leaks suggest that the HarmonyOS PC could be unveiled sooner than expected, possibly within the upcoming months. Some images on the official Huawei Developer website showcase the UI layout of HarmonyOS PC, which bears a resemblance to macOS with a minimalistic design and efficient features.
The leaked information also hints at various applications for audio, video, social networking, and more on the HarmonyOS PC. The interface appears spacious and user-friendly, offering easy navigation.
The Chinese government is supporting Huawei in its efforts to build the HarmonyOS ecosystem. The stable version of HarmonyOS NEXT is expected to be released in the fourth quarter of this year, along with the potential introduction of the highly anticipated HarmonyOS PC software. With its advanced features, Huawei could potentially replace Windows in China, following its departure from the Android platform.
