S3Corp. Tech Blog

What is HarmonyOS?

HarmonyOS is Huawei’s distributed operating system, first introduced in 2019 at their global developer conference. Designed with a microkernel architecture, it is capable of operating across diverse device types. Over time, it has become a cornerstone of Huawei’s technological ecosystem. By 2023, HarmonyOS had amassed over 100 million lines of code and 20,000 APIs, serving as the foundation for a vast ecosystem with over 700 million connected devices. In addition, the platform has attracted 2.2 million developers globally, signifying its growing prominence in the tech world.

The release of HarmonyOS 4.0 marked a milestone, as more than 100 million devices were upgraded within three months. This rapid adoption rate highlights its appeal to consumers. Huawei envisions HarmonyOS as an integral component of a connected future, aiming to redefine how devices interact in a unified ecosystem.

Can Android Apps Run on HarmonyOS?

Initially, HarmonyOS included support for Android applications through its compatibility layer. This approach allowed users to run APK files, making the transition to HarmonyOS easier for those already embedded in the Android ecosystem. However, with the introduction of HarmonyOS NEXT, Huawei has shifted its focus to creating an independent system. This “pure-blood HarmonyOS” abandons compatibility with Android, eliminating the use of APK files. Instead, HarmonyOS NEXT is building its ecosystem from scratch, akin to Apple’s iOS.

This move may pose challenges, such as encouraging developers to create native HarmonyOS apps, but Huawei views it as essential to achieving full independence and creating a seamless user experience.

Is HarmonyOS Better than iOS?

The comparison between HarmonyOS and iOS is complex, as both systems are tailored for different market needs and strategies. HarmonyOS emphasizes a distributed architecture, enabling seamless connectivity across devices such as smartphones, tablets, wearables, and home appliances. This focus makes it particularly appealing in scenarios requiring device integration.

On the other hand, iOS is renowned for its polished user experience, robust security, and deep integration with Apple’s hardware. While HarmonyOS may not yet rival iOS in global market dominance, its growing ecosystem and rapid adoption in China indicate its potential as a competitive alternative. The question of superiority largely depends on the user’s priorities—whether they value cross-device connectivity or a more established, secure ecosystem.

Huawei’s Strategy: Building an Ecosystem

Building an operating system is just the beginning; the true challenge lies in cultivating an ecosystem around it. Huawei has made significant strides in this area by introducing initiatives like the “Hongfei Program,” which provides technical support, marketing resources, and developer funds. These efforts aim to attract developers and vendors, ensuring long-term commitment to the HarmonyOS platform.

A robust ecosystem demands a superior development experience. Huawei has invested heavily in developer tools, culminating in the release of comprehensive Harmony Development Kits. These resources simplify app development, encouraging developers to create high-quality apps. Moreover, Huawei actively engages with developers through events like HarmonyOS innovation camps and the Huawei Campus Developer Program, fostering a community dedicated to HarmonyOS innovation.

This proactive approach has already borne fruit, with over 1.7 million participants involved in HarmonyOS Academy courses and related events in 2023. Such widespread engagement underscores the enthusiasm surrounding HarmonyOS and its ecosystem.

The Rise of “Pure-Blood HarmonyOS”

The launch of HarmonyOS NEXT signals a pivotal shift. By moving away from Android compatibility, Huawei aims to establish a truly independent operating system. This strategic move involves creating native HarmonyOS apps, which promise improved performance, security, and functionality tailored to the HarmonyOS ecosystem.

At Huawei’s All-Scenario New Product Launch, Richard Yu highlighted the transformative potential of HarmonyOS NEXT. Native apps are expected to deliver a smoother and smarter user experience, setting a new standard for mobile ecosystems. This independence aligns with Huawei’s long-term vision of reducing reliance on external technologies and building a self-sufficient platform.

Impact on the Consumer Market

For the consumer market, HarmonyOS represents an opportunity to experience a unified ecosystem across multiple devices. The system’s versatility extends beyond smartphones to include tablets, wearables, and smart home devices. Upcoming HarmonyOS PCs are expected to target enterprise and government sectors initially, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in these domains.

Huawei’s hardware capabilities complement this ecosystem. Despite challenges such as chip supply constraints, analysts predict that Huawei will regain significant market share in 2024. This resurgence is likely to disrupt the dominance of Android and iOS in the Chinese smartphone market.

Expanding into the Business Sector

HarmonyOS’s open-source approach has attracted over 150 companies, resulting in more than 350 software and hardware products. Major Chinese companies, including Alipay, Meituan, and Bilibili, have embraced native HarmonyOS app development. These collaborations span industries such as finance, gaming, social networking, and education, highlighting the versatility of the platform.

The business sector represents a significant growth opportunity for HarmonyOS. By catering to diverse industries, Huawei is positioning HarmonyOS as a key player in the B2B market, fostering innovation and driving adoption across different sectors.

The Future of HarmonyOS

HarmonyOS is at a turning point, transitioning from an emerging operating system to a fully-fledged ecosystem. The focus on native app development, coupled with Huawei’s investments in tools and community building, lays a solid foundation for future growth. With over 400 companies already developing HarmonyOS apps, the platform is set to expand its footprint in both consumer and business markets.

For developers and investors alike, HarmonyOS presents a compelling opportunity. Its growing ecosystem, innovative architecture, and expanding market share make it a platform worth watching in the coming years.