Huawei has officially launched HarmonyOS NEXT, a major milestone in its long-term strategy to reduce reliance on Android and Western technologies. This new operating system, first unveiled in 2024 and now rolling out across Huawei devices in 2025, is built completely from scratch and no longer supports Android apps — a bold but calculated decision.
Read Also: How to Speed Up a Slow Smartphone: Simple Tips That Work
Why Huawei Moved Away From Android
After years of US trade restrictions and limited access to Google services, Huawei began investing in its own software ecosystem. HarmonyOS, originally introduced in 2019, evolved through multiple iterations. However, previous versions still supported Android compatibility. HarmonyOS NEXT is different — it is entirely decoupled from Android and marks a true turning point in Huawei’s ecosystem independence.
Features of HarmonyOS NEXT
- Independent Kernel: The OS runs on Huawei’s self-developed microkernel, designed for increased efficiency and tighter security.
- No Android Compatibility: It only supports Harmony-native applications, pushing developers to fully embrace the new ecosystem.
- Fluid Cross-Device Experience: Seamlessly syncs smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, wearables, and even cars, enabling a more connected lifestyle.
- Improved UI: A redesigned user interface with better animations, gesture controls, and context-aware widgets.
- Enhanced Security: With end-to-end encryption and minimal kernel exposure, the system minimizes attack surfaces.
Devices Using HarmonyOS NEXT
The rollout of HarmonyOS NEXT is starting with flagship devices like the Huawei Mate 70, Pura 80 series, and MatePad Pro 13.2. Newer Huawei smartwatches and the upcoming line of Huawei laptops will also adopt this OS, marking Huawei’s first cross-device software unification using HarmonyOS NEXT.
Developer Ecosystem and App Growth
Huawei reports that over 1.5 million developers have already joined the HarmonyOS ecosystem. The HarmonyOS NEXT SDK offers full-stack tools to build native apps optimized for performance and privacy. Huawei’s own apps — including Petal Maps, Huawei Music, and AppGallery — are now fully rewritten in Harmony-native code. The goal is to have over 500,000 native apps by the end of 2025.
Read Also: How to Protect Your Phone from Hackers
Challenges and Market Impact
While HarmonyOS NEXT is a major technical achievement, its success will depend on user adoption and third-party app support. Without compatibility with popular Android apps like WhatsApp or Netflix (unless re-developed), some users may hesitate. However, in China, where many Google services are blocked, Huawei has strong local alternatives and a massive user base to drive adoption.
Globally, HarmonyOS NEXT signals a new phase in mobile OS competition. With Apple and Google long dominating the space, Huawei is one of the few companies capable of introducing a viable third option — especially in emerging markets where it already has strong brand loyalty.
What’s Next?
HarmonyOS NEXT isn’t just an operating system; it’s part of Huawei’s broader vision for a fully integrated tech ecosystem. From smart homes to autonomous cars, Huawei aims to create an end-to-end experience underpinned by a secure, seamless OS that it fully controls. While it faces challenges ahead, one thing is clear: Huawei is playing the long game in tech sovereignty and platform independence.
