HarmonyOS Next officially released.
Huawei has officially launched HarmonyOS Next, marking a significant step in the company's push for independence from Android. This latest iteration of Huawei's self-developed operating system is entirely distinct from the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), making it the first version of HarmonyOS to be built completely from the ground up without relying on Android's architecture. This move signals Huawei's bold ambition to create a third major mobile operating system alongside Android and iOS.
Complete Android Independence
HarmonyOS Next is a monumental shift for Huawei, as it no longer supports Android applications or APK files. Instead, the operating system runs on a microkernel-based architecture using the OpenHarmony framework. The operating system integrates with Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) and supports native HarmonyOS apps via the Ark Compiler, a tool designed to facilitate app development within this ecosystem. This allows for smoother, more efficient operations and helps create a more unified Huawei experience across devices.
User Interface (UI) and Experience
The UI in HarmonyOS Next, branded as “Pure HarmonyOS,” focuses on providing an immersive and visually appealing experience. The design includes dynamic wallpapers, gravity-based animations, and features like central-axis symmetry for improved fluidity. The overall theme adapts to real-world conditions, such as lighting or weather, creating a more natural interaction for users.
Performance Enhancements
Under the hood, HarmonyOS Next claims impressive performance improvements. Huawei asserts that this new OS boosts overall performance by 30%, increases connectivity speeds by three times, and reduces power consumption by 20%. These improvements make the OS more efficient in managing battery life and multi-device collaboration. Additionally, features like the Distributed Soft Bus improve cross-device interactions, allowing users to share files and media seamlessly between Huawei devices.
Enhanced Security and Privacy
Huawei has also made substantial advancements in privacy and security with HarmonyOS Next. The Star Shield architecture enhances data protection by strictly controlling permissions and preventing unauthorized access. The system introduces encrypted sharing options, limits unnecessary permission prompts, and ensures detailed logs of app behavior for transparency. This makes the OS a secure alternative, appealing to users who prioritize privacy.
AI Integration and Multimedia Power
HarmonyOS Next leans heavily into artificial intelligence (AI) with the updated XiaoYi Assistant, now powered by Huawei's Pangu AI model. The assistant enables advanced features like document summarization, mind mapping, and even AI-powered image editing. In addition, multimedia features have been enhanced with technologies like the Ark Multimedia Engine and support for PC-level ray tracing in games, turning the OS into a powerful tool for media consumption and creation.
Ecosystem and App Availability
A critical aspect of any operating system's success lies in its ecosystem. Huawei is actively developing an ecosystem of apps and services tailored for HarmonyOS Next, claiming support for over 15,000 native HarmonyOS apps. This ecosystem spans across 18 different industries, ensuring broad utility for the OS. However, since HarmonyOS Next lacks Android app compatibility, its success in markets outside China may depend on how quickly and effectively developers can adapt their apps to the new platform.
Conclusion
In conclusion, HarmonyOS Next is a bold leap forward for Huawei, symbolizing its intent to establish a self-reliant and powerful alternative to Android and iOS. While it faces challenges in global markets due to its break from Android, it offers a secure, high-performance, and interconnected ecosystem with a promising future, particularly in its home market of China.