Huawei HarmonyOS Next
In an exciting announcement, Huawei revealed its plans to launch HarmonyOS Next, a groundbreaking new operating system that marks a significant shift for the tech giant. For the first time, HarmonyOS Next is built on Huawei’s own in-house kernel, which makes it completely independent from the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). This transition signifies a pivotal moment for the company as it distances itself from Google’s Android ecosystem.
HarmonyOS Next Debuts with New Devices
The first wave of HarmonyOS Next will power the newly launched Mate 70 series, Mate X6 foldable, and MatePad Pro tablet. These devices are set to usher in the new operating system, providing Huawei with a fresh opportunity to revitalize its mobile and tablet offerings. Huawei’s CEO, Richard Yu, made it clear that this is only the beginning. By 2025, all Huawei smartphones and tablets launched will come pre-installed with HarmonyOS Next.
A China-Exclusive Rollout
However, there is a major caveat to this announcement. While HarmonyOS Next will be the default operating system for Huawei devices starting in 2025, this applies exclusively to devices launched in China. International availability of HarmonyOS Next will not be part of the initial rollout as Huawei continues to face significant challenges in expanding the operating system beyond its domestic market.
The Struggle for Global Expansion
One of the key hurdles Huawei faces in bringing HarmonyOS Next to the global stage is the lack of app availability. Analysts, including Rich Bishop, CEO of AppInChina, noted that convincing international developers to create apps for the Chinese market is challenging, as these developers struggle to see profitable returns. Furthermore, the absence of popular apps that consumers rely on could be a significant barrier to Huawei’s success in the international market.
Bishop emphasized that even the absence of a single major app could lead to potential buyers reconsidering their purchase of a Huawei device. This issue is compounded by the fact that users of HarmonyOS Next devices in China will not be able to access their apps when traveling abroad, further limiting the OS’s global appeal.
The State of HarmonyOS
Currently, HarmonyOS holds a 17% market share in China, surpassing iOS with a 16% share. However, Android dominates with a commanding 68% market share in China. On a global scale, Huawei’s operating system holds a mere 4% share, while Android leads with 80% and iOS accounts for 16%. This stark contrast highlights the challenges Huawei faces as it tries to carve out a niche for HarmonyOS outside of China.
The Impact of Google’s Absence
Huawei’s absence of Google Mobile Services (GMS) remains a significant roadblock in its quest to regain its place in the global smartphone market. Once a leading contender for the title of the world’s best-selling smartphone brand, Huawei now struggles to maintain its position within the top 5 smartphone manufacturers. Despite this, Huawei continues to push forward, launching products like the Pura 70 series in an effort to stay relevant in the consumer’s mind.
Looking Ahead
As Huawei’s push for HarmonyOS Next continues, the company remains focused on its home turf, where the OS is gaining traction. With international partners such as Grab (a Singapore-based ride-hailing platform) and Emirates (Dubai’s state-owned airline) already on board, Huawei is hoping to build a foundation for global adoption. If successful, this could pave the way for more global apps and services to support HarmonyOS, though the road ahead remains long.
Conclusion
In summary, HarmonyOS Next represents a bold and significant leap for Huawei as it moves away from Android and seeks to establish its own ecosystem. However, its current rollout strategy is limited to China, with global expansion remaining uncertain due to the ongoing challenge of app availability and international adoption. For now, it’s clear that HarmonyOS Next will be a China-exclusive feature in 2025, with the world watching to see how Huawei navigates these complex obstacles moving forward.
FAQs
1. What is HarmonyOS Next?
HarmonyOS Next is Huawei’s new operating system, built entirely on an in-house kernel, making it independent from Android Open Source Project (AOSP). It is designed to power Huawei’s upcoming smartphones, tablets, and other devices, starting in 2025.
2. Will HarmonyOS Next be available internationally?
Initially, HarmonyOS Next will only be available on Huawei devices sold in China. The company has not yet committed to a global rollout due to challenges with app availability and international adoption.
3. Which devices will ship with HarmonyOS Next?
The first devices to feature HarmonyOS Next include the recently launched Mate 70 series, Mate X6 foldable, and the MatePad Pro tablet. Starting in 2025, all new Huawei phones and tablets will come with this operating system, but only in China.
4. What challenges is Huawei facing with HarmonyOS Next?
One of the biggest challenges is the lack of app availability. International developers are reluctant to build apps for the Chinese market due to limited financial returns. Additionally, users will face difficulties using apps abroad, which could deter global adoption.
5. How successful is HarmonyOS in China?
HarmonyOS currently holds 17% of the smartphone market share in China, surpassing iOS at 16%. However, Android remains the dominant operating system in the country with a market share of 68%. Globally, HarmonyOS has a much smaller share, holding just 4%.
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