Tag: Huawei

  • Huawei Pura 80 Pro Launching with New SmartSens 1-Inch Camera

    Huawei Pura 80 Pro Launching with New SmartSens 1-Inch Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pura 80 series will likely include vanilla, Pro, and Ultra models, similar to previous versions.
    2. The Pro model may feature a 1-inch main camera, which was previously thought to be exclusive to the Ultra version.
    3. The 1-inch camera is expected to have a 50MP resolution and be developed in-house by Huawei.
    4. Huawei plans to launch a new sensor brand called SmartSens for its self-made camera sensors.
    5. The anticipated main sensor model is “SC5A0CS,” with a smaller variant possibly featured in the Pura 80 Ultra or Pro.

    The upcoming Pura 80 series premium smartphones will probably include vanilla, Pro, and Ultra models, similar to what we saw with previous versions. However, it’s likely that only a few will come equipped with the most exciting new features that Huawei is expected to unveil.

    Pro Variant’s Exciting Feature

    Rumor has it that the Pro model might have a feature previously believed to be exclusive to the Ultra version: a 1-inch main camera.

    This camera, akin to the one found in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, is speculated to have a 50MP resolution that matches its top-tier design. Interestingly, it’s thought that this sensor will be developed in-house by Huawei, rather than sourced from a third-party supplier like Sony or OmniVision.

    New Sensor Brand

    According to the well-informed leaker Digital Chat Station, Huawei plans to launch this self-made sensor under a new brand called SmartSens. The anticipated 1-inch flagship sensor, referred to as “SC5A0CS,” might be accompanied by a smaller variant measuring 1/1.3 inches. This smaller sensor could also appear in the Pura 80 Ultra, or maybe even the 80 Pro.

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  • Huawei’s Next Flagship Phone to Use Custom Camera Sensor Instead of Sony

    Huawei’s Next Flagship Phone to Use Custom Camera Sensor Instead of Sony

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei launched the Nova 14 series and their first foldable PC at a recent event in China.
    2. The upcoming Pura 80 series will likely include three models: Pura 80, Pura 80 Pro, and Pura 80 Ultra.
    3. The Pura 80 Pro will feature a custom 50-megapixel image sensor developed by Huawei, the SmartSens SC5A0CS.
    4. The rear camera setup for the Pura 80 Pro may include a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel telephoto macro camera, with a custom RYYB color filter for improved low-light performance.
    5. The Pura 80 Pro is expected to have a 6.78-inch OLED display with 1.5K resolution and LTPO variable refresh rate, launching in the second quarter of this year.

    Huawei recently held a significant launch event in China, where they introduced the Nova 14 series along with their first foldable PC. However, attention might soon turn to their upcoming release: the Pura 80 series.

    Upcoming Models in the Pura 80 Series

    There are strong indications that the lineup will consist of three models: the standard Pura 80, the Pura 80 Pro, and the high-end Pura 80 Ultra. Notably, the Pro version is now reported to utilize a custom image sensor created by Huawei itself.

    Custom Sensor for the Pura 80 Pro

    A new update from the well-known tipster Digital Chat Station suggests that the Pura 80 Pro will include a unique image sensor developed by Huawei. It is believed to incorporate the SmartSens SC5A0CS, a 50-megapixel, 1-inch RYYB sensor. This differs from prior claims made by the tipster, who had suggested that the Pura 80 Pro would feature a Sony IMX989 sensor. Indeed, it appears that Huawei was experimenting with the Sony sensor in an engineering prototype of the Pura 80 Pro a few months back. However, DCS notes that Huawei has altered its path during the hardware finalization.

    Camera Features and Display

    If Huawei has only made a change to the main sensor, the remainder of the rear camera configuration may stay consistent with earlier leaks. It is reported to include a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto macro camera. Allegedly, all three sensors will employ a custom RYYB color filter that boosts low-light performance by allowing up to 40 percent more light intake. Furthermore, the Pura 80 Pro is said to come with a 6.78-inch OLED display that supports a 1.5K resolution and LTPO variable refresh rate.

    The Huawei Pura 80 series is anticipated to hit the market sometime during the second quarter of this year.

    Huawei's Next Flagship Phone to Use Custom Camera Sensor Instead of Sony
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  • Huawei and Xiaomi Lead Smartphone Shipments in China Q1 2025

    Huawei and Xiaomi Lead Smartphone Shipments in China Q1 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei leads the Chinese smartphone market with a 19% share in Q1 2025, surpassing competitors.
    2. China’s smartphone market grew by 5% year over year, driven by a government subsidy initiative, but growth slowed post-holiday.
    3. Xiaomi matched Huawei’s market share at 19%, with a 3% quarter-over-quarter increase.
    4. Apple fell to third place with a decline in market share from 17% to 15%, affected by the subsidy program’s price limitations.
    5. Oppo and Honor ranked fourth and sixth, with market shares of 15% and 13%, respectively; growth in the market is expected to continue but at a slower pace in 2025.

    Counterpoint has released its newest report on smartphone shipments in China, revealing that Huawei has secured the top position, surpassing all competitors to achieve the No. 1 rank in Q1 2025.

    Market Growth Insights

    China’s smartphone market experienced a 5 percent increase year over year, largely due to a government subsidy initiative that started in January. However, this initial surge in demand didn’t persist. Counterpoint notes that interest waned after the holiday period, leading to growth that still fell below what was anticipated.

    Huawei’s Performance

    Huawei managed to capture a 19 percent share of the market this quarter, marking a 2 percent rise from Q4 2024. Xiaomi matched Huawei’s share at 19 percent but recorded a slightly higher quarter-over-quarter increase of 3 percent.

    Apple dropped to third place, with its shipments declining by 2 percent, which reduced its share from 17 percent to 15 percent. Counterpoint suggests that this decrease is linked to the nature of the government subsidy program, which only applies to phones priced over CNY 6,000 (around $820). Many iPhones, especially the popular Pro models, are priced well above this limit, making them ineligible for discounts.

    Other Brands in the Market

    Oppo secured the fourth position with a 15 percent market share and a modest growth of 1 percent. Vivo experienced a notable decrease, dropping from 18 percent to 14 percent compared to the previous quarter. Honor followed closely behind in sixth place, holding a 13 percent share.

    Looking forward, Counterpoint anticipates that the Chinese smartphone market will keep growing year over year in 2025, albeit at a slower rate. The upcoming launches of new devices in Q2 and mid-year sales events are expected to provide a temporary uplift in shipments.

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  • Huawei Kirin X90 Chip Built on New SMIC 5nm Technology

    Huawei Kirin X90 Chip Built on New SMIC 5nm Technology

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei has launched the MateBook Pro variant, powered by HarmonyOS and featuring the new X90 chip from HiSilicon.
    2. The X90 chip is rumored to be a modified version of the Kirin 9010, with details pending from upcoming reviews.
    3. The Kirin X90 is manufactured using SMIC’s 5 nm N+3 process, achieving a transistor density of around 125 million per mm².
    4. Production challenges exist, with SMIC producing only 3,000 wafers monthly and achieving a low yield of 20%.
    5. Caution is advised regarding Huawei’s claims about the chip’s capabilities, as independent analysis is needed to confirm its performance.

    Huawei has launched its much-anticipated MateBook Pro variant, often referred to as the ‘Mac Killer.’ This new device operates on HarmonyOS and features an enigmatic X90 chip from HiSilicon. A leaker has suggested that this chip is a modified version of the Kirin 9010, with some alterations in the CPU core structure. In-depth reviews of the chip are expected to clarify its details in the upcoming days. Meanwhile, a Chinese news outlet has shared some intriguing new insights about Huawei’s latest tech release.

    Chip Specifications

    The Kirin X90 is reportedly made using SMIC’s 5 nm N+3 process. This aligns with last year’s reports indicating that SMIC’s 5 nm technology was up and running. An X user has speculated that the chip’s density could be around 125 million transistors per mm², which is a bit lower than TSMC’s N5 at approximately 138 million transistors per mm². This is an impressive achievement, especially since SMIC managed to reach this level using DUV lithography, unlike TSMC, Intel, and others that utilize state-of-the-art ASMC EUV machines, which are currently inaccessible due to US sanctions.

    Production Challenges

    On the downside, the production yields are not very promising. An analyst found out that SMIC is producing about 3,000 wafers each month, but only achieving 20% yields. This situation doesn’t lend itself to large-scale production, but it might be more about setting a benchmark than creating a commercially viable product. It’s worth noting that Huawei has a history of trying to pass off TSMC chips as their own, so it might be prudent to wait until independent sources analyze the Kirin X90 in detail.

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  • Huawei, Honor, OPPO, and Vivo Join Forces for UFCS 2.0 Charging Standard

    Huawei, Honor, OPPO, and Vivo Join Forces for UFCS 2.0 Charging Standard

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei, Honor, Oppo, and Vivo have created a standardized charging protocol called UFCS 2.0 in China.
    2. UFCS 2.0 introduces 40W unauthenticated power delivery for faster charging without brand-specific adapters.
    3. The protocol includes reverse charging, allowing devices to charge others regardless of the brand.
    4. PowerChange feature adjusts charger output automatically based on the connected device, enhancing safety and efficiency.
    5. The collaboration aims to reduce confusion from incompatible charging standards, but global adoption remains uncertain.

    Huawei, Honor, Oppo, and Vivo have teamed up to create a standardized charging protocol in China. These four Chinese smartphone manufacturers gathered at the UFCS Industry Development Conference in Shenzhen on May 22 to sign a new agreement regarding the Universal Fast Charging Standard (UFCS) 2.0 protocol.

    Background on UFCS

    For those who don’t know, the UFCS charging was first launched by Huawei, Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi in 2021. It laid the groundwork for establishing centralized mobile fast charging standards among these brands.

    Enhancements in Version 2.0

    UFCS Version 2.0 brings significant technical improvements compared to its predecessor. The most important is the inclusion of 40W unauthenticated power delivery. This allows devices to charge at faster rates without the need for specific handshakes between brand-specific adapters and cables.

    The protocol also adds a reverse charging capability, enabling supported devices to charge others, no matter the brand.

    Features and Impacts

    The companies state that UFCS 2.0 requires a feature called PowerChange, which actively adjusts adapter power. This means that chargers will automatically recognize and modify their output based on the device they are connected to, irrespective of its manufacturer. This is intended to enhance both safety and efficiency, while minimizing the issues often associated with third-party charging accessories.

    The collaboration of these four brands for a unified charging standard is beneficial for users. Fast charging has become a standard expectation in modern smartphones, yet it is often inconsistent. Historically, each brand has promoted its own proprietary solutions, resulting in a confusing array of incompatible standards and surplus chargers for consumers. In theory, UFCS aims to alleviate that fragmentation, at least among this group.

    However, it remains uncertain whether this protocol will be adopted outside of China or embraced by global competitors such as Samsung or Apple. As long as companies continue to favor isolated standards, users will be reliant on the ecosystem they choose to invest in.

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  • Huawei MateBook Fold: 18″ Foldable Laptop with OLED Display

    Huawei MateBook Fold: 18″ Foldable Laptop with OLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design is a foldable PC featuring HarmonyOS 5.
    2. It has a lightweight design at 1.16 kg, with a thickness of 7.3mm when unfolded and 14.9mm when folded, and includes a unique water drop hinge.
    3. The device boasts an 18-inch OLED LTPO display that folds to 13 inches, with a 3.3K resolution, 1600 nits brightness, and a 92% screen-to-body ratio.
    4. It includes 32GB of RAM, storage options of 1TB or 2TB SSD, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and features like an 8MP camera and six speakers.
    5. The MateBook Fold is priced at CNY23,999 (~$3,328) for the 1TB model and CNY26,999 (~$3,745) for the 2TB model, surpassing the price of Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Fold 16.

    Years after Lenovo introduced the first ever foldable PC, Huawei has now revealed its own version of a foldable computer. Named the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design, this new device is also one of the first from Huawei to run on HarmonyOS 5.

    Design and Build

    Weighing in at 1.16 kg, the MateBook Fold has a thickness of 7.3mm when unfolded and 14.9mm when it’s folded. According to Huawei, this computer features a special water drop hinge designed specifically for foldable devices. This hinge allows the laptop to maintain positions ranging from 30° to 150°. Additionally, it includes an integrated kickstand for supporting the device in landscape orientation.

    Display and Performance

    The MateBook Fold boasts an 18-inch screen that conveniently folds down to a more portable 13 inches. The display is a tandem OLED LTPO panel, showcasing a 92% screen-to-body ratio, alongside a 3.3K (3296 x 2472) resolution and a maximum brightness of up to 1600 nits. It also supports 1440Hz PWC dimming and features an impressive contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1.

    Inside the MateBook Fold, Huawei has packed 32GB of RAM with storage options of either a 1TB or 2TB SSD. While the specific processor hasn’t been disclosed, it’s very likely to be a Kirin chip, similar to other devices in the Huawei MateBook range. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.2, dual-band Wi-Fi, two USB-C ports, and a fingerprint scanner located beneath the power button. It also features an 8MP camera at the front, six speakers, and four microphones, along with a 74.69Wh battery.

    Accessories and Pricing

    While the MateBook Fold comes with a virtual keyboard, Huawei is also providing a physical keyboard in the box. This keyboard includes a touchpad, and has a key travel of 1.5mm, weighing only 290 grams and measuring a slim 5mm in thickness. The keyboard claims a battery life of up to 24 days, and users can opt to pair it with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse.

    Apart from the keyboard, the MateBook Fold package includes a 140W power adapter, a braided cable, a screen cleaning cloth, a large carrying bag for the laptop, and a smaller bag for accessories.

    Offered in Black, Blue, and White, the MateBook Fold is priced at CNY23,999 (~$3,328/€2,953) for the 1TB model and CNY26,999 (~$3,745/€3,322) for the 2TB variant. This price point surpasses the launch cost of the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16, which is available on Amazon for $2899. The MateBook Fold 6 is set to launch on June 6 but can already be pre-ordered.

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    Huawei MateBook Fold: 18Huawei MateBook Fold: 18

     

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  • Huawei’s Upcoming 8.8-Inch OLED MatePad Tablet: Lightweight Design

    Huawei’s Upcoming 8.8-Inch OLED MatePad Tablet: Lightweight Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei is preparing to launch a new small tablet, likely part of the MatePad series.
    2. The tablet is expected to have a sleek design, measuring around 5.x mm thick and weighing about 200 grams, with an 8.8-inch OLED display and a 120Hz refresh rate.
    3. It will likely feature a Kirin 9-series chip for moderate performance, suitable for productivity tasks and media streaming, but not aimed at gaming.
    4. The official name and specific details of the tablet are not yet confirmed, but a launch event is expected in June.
    5. The tablet is designed for consumers focused on productivity and office tasks rather than gaming.

    Huawei seems to be prepping for the release of a small tablet shortly. This new gadget, likely part of the MatePad series, is said to have a sleek, lightweight build and moderate performance specs, based on a leak from Digital Chat Station on Weibo.

    Design and Display

    The new MatePad is rumored to be only 5.x mm thick and to weigh about 200 grams. It is expected to have an 8.8-inch OLED screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a refresh rate of 120Hz. Reports from Huawei Central suggest that the tech giant might incorporate its dual-layer OLED tech, which was previously utilized in its high-end tablets like the MatePad Pro 12.2, to enhance color accuracy and contrast on the display.

    Performance Specs

    Internally, the tablet is likely to be powered by a Kirin 9-series chip, probably a lower-clocked version of the Kirin 9020 with capabilities for 5G. While this won’t put it in the gaming tablet category, it should provide sufficient power for everyday productivity tasks and media streaming.

    Launch Details

    The official name of the tablet is not yet known, but earlier leaks indicate it could be revealed during Huawei’s launch event in June, which is also anticipated to unveil the Pura 80 series. Unlike tablets designed for gaming, this model is aimed more at consumers who focus on productivity and office tasks while on the move.

    More details about the tablet, such as camera setup, AI functions, and storage options, are still awaited. Huawei has yet to confirm any specifics at this time.

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  • China’s Non-Chinese Smartphone Shipments Drop to 1.85 Million

    China’s Non-Chinese Smartphone Shipments Drop to 1.85 Million

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s share in China’s smartphone market is declining, with local brands capturing 92% of the market.
    2. Total smartphone shipments increased by 6.5% in March 2025, but foreign brands, including Apple, saw a decline of over 25%.
    3. The Chinese government’s subsidy policies disadvantage Apple, as its Pro models exceed the price limit for subsidies.
    4. Apple’s revenue from Greater China has decreased for seven consecutive quarters, indicating growing pressure in the market.
    5. Despite a strong manufacturing and retail presence, local brands like Huawei, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Oppo are becoming more popular than Apple.

    Apple’s share in China’s smartphone industry is diminishing as local rivals continue to advance. Recent shipment figures from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT) for March 2025 indicate that total smartphone deliveries have increased by 6.5 percent compared to the previous year, reaching 22.73 million units. Chinese brands have taken 92 percent of this market share, leaving non-Chinese companies—primarily Apple—with only 1.85 million units, which is about half of what they sold last year.

    Quarterly Trends

    The quarterly results show a similar trend. From January to March, total shipments rose by 3.3 percent to 69.67 million units. However, Chinese manufacturers saw a growth of 9 percent, while foreign brands faced a decline of over 25 percent. Foreign companies made up about 8 percent of the total shipments—1.85 million units—with Apple holding a significant portion of that share, yet Counterpoint Research ranks Huawei, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Oppo as more popular than the iPhone maker.

    Impact of Policies

    Policies from the government have further increased the challenges for Apple. The 15 percent “buy-new” subsidy from Beijing is only applicable to devices priced under 6,000 yuan (roughly $832). While Apple’s standard iPhone 16 starts at 5,999 yuan (about $832), its Pro models exceed this price limit. To stay competitive ahead of the 618 shopping festival, Apple is reportedly considering offering larger discounts on its Pro models.

    Apple’s financial data indicates that the pressure is mounting. Greater China accounted for 16.8 percent of Apple’s global revenue in its fiscal second quarter, but this figure has been on a downward trend for seven consecutive quarters. The last significant growth occurred in early 2022, when sales were still increasing by double digits.

    Although Apple has a large manufacturing network and retail presence in China, the market’s current energy is increasingly leaning towards local brands.

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  • Huawei Nova 14 Ultra Design and Color Options Unveiled Before Launch

    Huawei Nova 14 Ultra Design and Color Options Unveiled Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei will launch the Nova 14 smartphone series on May 19, featuring three models: Nova 14, 14 Pro, and 14 Ultra.
    2. The Nova 14 Ultra will be available in four colors: Floating Gold, Floating White, Glowing Purple, and Obsidian Black, with a design that includes a circular camera module.
    3. The Ultra model features a Red Maple Color sensor for improved color accuracy in photos and videos.
    4. The Nova 14 Ultra will have a 6.8-inch full-view display and be powered by a Kirin 9 series processor.
    5. It will be the first device to come with HarmonyOS 5 pre-installed, enhancing the software experience.

    Huawei is set to unveil the Nova 14 smartphone series this month in China. The launch is planned for May 19, and it is anticipated that the series will consist of three models: the Nova 14, 14 Pro, and 14 Ultra. In the lead-up to the launch, the company has showcased four color variants for the Ultra model. According to official promotional images, this phone is being touted as the most visually impressive Nova to date, featuring a remarkable design and upgraded camera features.

    Color Options for Nova 14 Ultra

    Huawei will release the Nova 14 Ultra in four striking colors: Floating Gold, Floating White, Glowing Purple, and Obsidian Black. The design remains in line with the brand’s well-known Star Ring aesthetic, but it now includes more graceful curves where the camera ring meets the back panel. This circular camera module integrates four different lenses: a main sensor, a telephoto lens, an ultra-wide camera, and a Red Maple Color sensor—a technology previously introduced with the Mate 70 series.

    Advanced Camera Features

    The Red Maple Color sensor is a sophisticated multi-spectral image sensor that can acquire more precise lighting information. This technology allows the camera to reproduce colors more accurately, ensuring that photos and videos capture realistic visuals. Huawei is emphasizing this feature as a significant advantage for the Nova 14 Ultra, especially in the mid-to-premium smartphone market.

    Expected Specifications

    The Nova 14 Ultra is expected to come equipped with a 6.8-inch full-view display and will utilize a Kirin 9 series processor. This places it on a similar level as the Mate and Pura series regarding performance. Additionally, it will be the first device to come with HarmonyOS 5 pre-installed, providing a new software experience right out of the box.

    The Nova 14 series is set to compete with other models such as the Oppo Reno 14 series, Vivo S30 series, and Honor 400 lineup in the Chinese market.

    Huawei Nova 14 Ultra Design and Color Options Unveiled Before LaunchHuawei Nova 14 Ultra Design and Color Options Unveiled Before LaunchHuawei Nova 14 Ultra Design and Color Options Unveiled Before Launch
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  • Understanding HarmonyOS for PC: Key Differences from Windows

    Understanding HarmonyOS for PC: Key Differences from Windows

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of HarmonyOS PC: Huawei launches its first personal computer operating system, HarmonyOS PC, to reduce reliance on Western technology.

    2. Core Features: Built on HarmonyOS 5, it emphasizes smooth performance, multi-device integration, AI enhancements, and robust security.

    3. Comparison with Windows: HarmonyOS PC is tailored for Huawei devices with a cohesive hardware-software relationship, unlike Windows which supports a wide range of hardware.

    4. AI Integration: HarmonyOS PC features a deeply integrated AI assistant, Xiaoyi, offering advanced functionalities like real-time summarization and automation.

    5. Privacy and Security: The OS includes advanced security measures like full-disk encryption at the chip level, enhancing data security compared to Windows.

    Huawei has introduced its first personal computer operating system, named HarmonyOS PC, or Hongmeng Computer in China. This launch marks a significant shift for the company as it seeks to reduce reliance on Western technology. HarmonyOS PC is the result of five years of internal development, involving more than 10,000 engineers and over 2,700 patents.

    What is HarmonyOS PC?

    HarmonyOS PC is a fully homegrown operating system from Huawei, built upon HarmonyOS 5. It is part of a larger ecosystem that already includes smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, TVs, and even vehicle dashboards. The PC version incorporates HarmonyOS’s core principles, such as smooth performance, multi-device integration, AI enhancements, and robust security into desktop computing.

    At the core of the system is a revamped Harmony kernel, backed by the Ark graphics engine and StarShield security framework. Additionally, Huawei provides proprietary development tools like ArkTS and ArkUI. HarmonyOS PC is designed for smooth interaction across various devices, allowing users to easily share keyboards, mice, screens, and files among phones, tablets, and PCs.

    Key Features of HarmonyOS PC

    The operating system also works closely with Huawei’s AI assistant, Xiaoyi, which facilitates voice commands, smart summarization, translation, and contextual data searches using AI-driven language understanding.

    The inaugural HarmonyOS PC is set to be launched on May 19, 2025, and will utilize the Kirin X90 desktop chip, a 10-core processor designed by Huawei. While the device won’t natively support Windows, users can run Windows 11 through the Oseasy virtual machine for added compatibility.

    Comparing HarmonyOS PC and Windows

    1. Architecture and Ecosystem
    Windows is a well-established operating system that offers compatibility across a wide range of hardware and software. In contrast, HarmonyOS PC is tailored specifically for Huawei’s devices and certified accessories, ensuring a more cohesive hardware-software relationship. HarmonyOS comes with over 150 native PC apps and more than 2,000 universal apps, most of which are optimized for Huawei’s devices. Windows, while supporting a vast array of legacy and modern applications, lacks the device-level integration that HarmonyOS aspires to achieve.

    2. Multi-Device Collaboration
    HarmonyOS PC emphasizes distributed computing, utilizing Huawei’s distributed soft bus technology to allow fluid transitions between devices, like dragging files and using a single keyboard and mouse across multiple screens. Windows has made progress with services such as Phone Link and OneDrive, but it still relies on third-party hardware and applications for more advanced integrations.

    3. User Interface and Interaction
    In terms of appearance, HarmonyOS PC bears more resemblance to macOS than Windows. It features a bottom-center dock for applications, top status bars, and a sleek, card-based desktop design. The OS includes dynamic wallpapers, motion effects, and gravity-based visuals that give it a contemporary feel. Windows maintains a more traditional layout, although Windows 11 has begun to adopt some visual elements akin to macOS.

    Gesture control on HarmonyOS PC is designed to be more intuitive, allowing for three-finger swipes and drag-and-drop multitasking. These elements are crafted with AI in mind and are intricately woven into the system’s functionality.

    4. AI Integration
    HarmonyOS PC aims to excel in AI integration. Huawei’s Xiaoyi assistant, driven by its Pangu and DeepSeek models, can create templates, translate images, summarize meetings in real-time, and provide system-level automation. In contrast, Windows offers Copilot and Microsoft 365 integrations, but Xiaoyi is more deeply integrated into the OS, allowing it to access system-level commands through voice, image, or text.

    5. Privacy and Security
    With privacy as a foundational element, Huawei has designed HarmonyOS PC with the StarShield architecture that enforces full-disk encryption at the chip level, ensuring data remains secure even if the drive is removed. Additional features include one-time permission grants, anti-peeping screens, and the ability to wipe the device remotely, even if it’s turned off. Windows provides BitLocker and various user-configurable privacy tools, but it does not offer chip-level full-disk encryption as a default on all devices and relies more on third-party antivirus solutions.

    Conclusion

    HarmonyOS PC signifies an important step in Huawei’s long-term strategy to reduce dependence on Western technology. While Windows remains the leader in legacy software compatibility and developer support, HarmonyOS PC’s strong integration with Huawei’s ecosystem, advanced AI features, and enhanced security offer a fresh option, especially for users and organizations within China.

    Nonetheless, HarmonyOS PC faces hurdles ahead. Development of native apps is ongoing, and it will take time for user habits to adapt, while international adoption may be limited due to geopolitical factors and software compatibility issues. For Huawei, HarmonyOS PC symbolizes more than just an operating system; it is a statement of independence and a significant move toward a unified, cross-device digital future.

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