Microsoft’s supply license to Huawei is set to expire this month, a development that could significantly alter the landscape for the Chinese tech giant. Without an extension, Huawei will be unable to legally produce and sell PCs equipped with the Windows operating system. This situation may compel the company to pivot towards open-source Linux distributions that are not affiliated with American firms, or to further develop its own HarmonyOS.
Shifting Strategies in Operating Systems
Huawei has previously indicated a strategic shift away from Windows for future generations of its PCs. Reports suggest that the company is preparing to unveil a new PC model in April, which will feature its proprietary operating system. While HarmonyOS presents a potential solution for the domestic market, its acceptance in Europe and the U.S. remains uncertain, particularly in a landscape where Windows continues to hold a dominant position.
In an intriguing twist, Huawei is expected to launch an ‘AI PC’ laptop that will utilize its Kunpeng CPU and run on HarmonyOS for PCs. This new device aims to incorporate various DeepSeek LLM-based applications, aligning with the company’s vision of innovation beyond traditional operating systems. The move underscores Huawei’s commitment to distancing itself from Windows.
Additionally, the company plans to introduce the MateBook D16 Linux Edition, marking its first foray into the Linux ecosystem. This new model will maintain the same hardware specifications as the existing MateBook D16, with the primary distinction being the transition from Windows to Linux as the operating system.
Despite these developments, Windows remains the prevailing choice in the desktop and laptop operating system market, boasting an impressive 70.65% share as of February 2025, according to StatCounter. Apple’s macOS follows with approximately 16%, while Linux holds around 3.8%, and ChromeOS accounts for 1.81%. Huawei’s challenge will be to carve out a niche in this competitive environment as it navigates its new operating system strategy.
