In a significant development, Huawei launched its most ambitious operating system last week at an event in China.
This is completely different from conventional HarmonyOS, an operating system based on Android. The new HarmonyOS Next does not contain a single line of code from Android and is incompatible with Android and its applications.
HarmonyOS Next is based on completely new kernels and exclusively utilizes apps developed for its unique architecture. It is based on the Harmony kernel.
During the press conference, the company also emphasized the superiority of the Harmony kernel over traditional kernels, including Linux kernels, asserting its adaptability across a diverse range of devices.
The newly unveiled structure of HarmonyOS Next also includes an AI model named Pangu. It is a collaboration with the MindSpore framework. It also includes a compiler (Ark compiler) and programming languages (ArkTS/Cangjie) to complement the kernel and file system (EROFS/HMDFS).
Reportedly, HarmonyOS NEXT has also received 3-highest security certifications in the industry, ensuring kernel-level security.
Creating a new OS is part of a long-term plan for Huawei as they are the biggest smartphone company in China. Ever since the ban on Huawei devices in the US, they have focused on the local market. The company is building its own infrastructure to provide all the components of a smartphone.
They are also keeping in touch with the latest developments in tech such as AI. Built-in AI in the OS will give them an edge to provide smarter and more efficient services.
Whether this bet of Huawei will succeed or not, only time will tell. However, they are fully committed to creating a new ecosystem. They are developing the core apps for the OS and working with third-party developers to migrate their apps and games to HarmonyOS.
