Huawei Unveils HarmonyOS Laptops, Signalling Shift from Western Tech
Huawei has launched its first laptops powered by its proprietary HarmonyOS 5, marking a significant move away from reliance on U.S. technologies. The newly introduced MateBook Fold and MateBook Pro models aim to challenge the dominance of Microsoft's Windows and Apple's macOS in the global PC market.
The MateBook Fold, priced at 23,999 yuan , features an 18-inch OLED foldable screen without a physical keyboard, catering to users seeking a versatile, tablet-like experience. In contrast, the MateBook Pro, starting at 7,999 yuan, offers a traditional laptop design with a physical keyboard, targeting professionals and everyday users. Both models run on HarmonyOS 5, an operating system Huawei began developing in 2015 and first introduced on its smartphones in 2020.
HarmonyOS 5 is designed to provide seamless integration across Huawei's ecosystem of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. The operating system boasts over 150 native applications, such as WPS Office and Meitu's Xiu Xiu photo editing app, offering alternatives to popular Western software. Huawei reports that HarmonyOS is now installed on over a billion devices globally, with more than 7.2 million developers contributing to its app ecosystem.
The launch of HarmonyOS-powered laptops comes in response to U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019, which restricted Huawei's access to critical technologies from companies like Intel and Qualcomm. These sanctions prompted Huawei to accelerate the development of its own chips and operating systems to reduce dependency on foreign technology. While Huawei has not disclosed the specific processors used in the new laptops, industry observers speculate that the devices may be powered by the company's in-house Kirin X90 chip, designed to meet China's national cryptography standards.
See also Oman Deepens AI Investment to Propel Digital Economy
Security and privacy are central to HarmonyOS 5, which features Huawei's StarShield security architecture. The operating system includes real-name developer authentication, app store signature verification, and strict permissions for screen recording and screenshots. A 'super privacy mode' disables the camera, microphone, and location access system-wide, and chip-level full-disk encryption ensures that data remains secure even if the hard drive is removed.
HarmonyOS 5 also introduces advanced artificial intelligence capabilities through Huawei's virtual assistant, Celia. Built on the company's proprietary Pangu large language model, Celia can perform tasks such as summarizing documents, preparing presentation slides, and retrieving information from local files. The AI assistant is integrated across the operating system, providing contextual understanding and personalized services based on user behavior.
The debut of HarmonyOS laptops is seen as a milestone in China's efforts to achieve technological self-sufficiency. Analysts suggest that the move could reduce reliance on Western operating systems and enhance the resilience of China's PC industry against external uncertainties. However, the success of HarmonyOS in the global market may depend on the expansion of its app ecosystem and the operating system's ability to meet the diverse needs of international users.
Huawei's focus on the Chinese market is evident, with the HarmonyOS laptops currently available exclusively in China. By concentrating on its home market, Huawei aims to refine the HarmonyOS experience and build a strong user base before considering international expansion. This strategic approach allows the company to address specific needs and preferences of Chinese users while strengthening its position in a key market.
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