Huawei is set to launch its first laptop powered by its self-developed HarmonyOS operating system on May 19, 2025. This move marks a significant step for the Chinese tech giant as it seeks to lessen its reliance on foreign software platforms.
HarmonyOS 5: A New Era for Huawei Laptops
The upcoming laptop will run HarmonyOS 5, also known as HarmonyOS Next, the latest iteration of Huawei’s operating system. This version is designed to provide enhanced performance, security, and cross-device collaboration. The operating system has been in development since 2012 and was first deployed in Huawei devices in 2019.
Key Features of the HarmonyOS Laptop
- AI Integration: The laptop will feature Huawei’s AI assistant, Celia, capable of performing tasks such as creating slides, summarizing meeting minutes, and retrieving information from local documents, provided it has access to the necessary third-party software.
- Software Ecosystem: HarmonyOS on PCs includes a wide range of software catering to both work and entertainment needs, such as WPS Office, China’s alternative to Microsoft Office, and Alibaba Group Holding’s enterprise collaboration platform, DingTalk.
- App Compatibility: The laptop is also compatible with a growing selection of mobile apps available on HarmonyOS smartphones, including social media platform RedNote, video-sharing site Bilibili, and ByteDance’s enterprise collaboration tool Feishu. By the end of the year, the device is expected to support over 2,000 apps.
Strategic Shift from Windows to HarmonyOS
Huawei’s license to use Microsoft Windows on its personal computers expired earlier this year, prompting the company to transition to its own operating system. This strategic shift allows Huawei to create an ecosystem of devices running HarmonyOS, from smart TVs and tablets to smartphones and now laptops, aiming for seamless integration across its product line.
Implications for the Tech Industry
Huawei’s move to launch a laptop with its self-developed HarmonyOS signifies a broader trend of tech companies seeking greater control over their software ecosystems. By developing its own operating system, Huawei aims to reduce dependency on foreign software platforms and enhance its ability to innovate and integrate across devices.Reuters
