Xiaomi HyperOS 3 Launches Without Google Services Amid US Trade War

Key Takeaways

1. Huawei’s HarmonyOS Next is independent of Android due to US sanctions.
2. Xiaomi is developing HyperOS 3, which may also operate without Google services.
3. The new operating systems aim to reduce reliance on US software amid trade tensions.
4. Other Chinese smartphone brands may adopt similar systems to avoid US restrictions.
5. Lack of access to the Google Play Store could hinder global competitiveness for these brands.

Just a few years back, Huawei had to nearly stop using Android because of strict sanctions from the US. Although the first HarmonyOS was built on the Android Open Source Project, Huawei claims that HarmonyOS Next does not rely on Android at all. A report from iXBT reveals that Xiaomi is looking to take similar actions and is reportedly getting assistance from Huawei and BBK Electronics, which is the parent company of Oppo, Vivo, and OnePlus.

Xiaomi’s New Direction

At least one iteration of Xiaomi HyperOS 3 will operate without Google services. The specifics of this new system remain uncertain, but it likely aims to create an operating system founded on the open-source version of Android, akin to the initial Huawei HarmonyOS. This move would let Xiaomi operate independently of US-based Google, especially in light of the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China. Such tensions could result in the US government restricting partnerships and imposing sanctions against Xiaomi or other Chinese phone makers.

Implications for Other Brands

The fundamental aspects of this new operating system will also be shared with other Chinese smartphone brands, enabling them to break free from reliance on US software. However, similar to Huawei’s experience, this significant shift might make smartphones from Xiaomi, OnePlus, and other companies less competitive globally, since these devices would lack access to the Google Play Store and the vast array of apps it offers. For this reason, the Google-less version of HyperOS 3 is currently being designed purely as a strategic backup.

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