HarmonyOS (Hongmeng in Chinese), developed by Huawei, officially launched its 2.0 version on September 10, 2020. Initially, some versions incorporated Android Open Source Project (AOSP) components to ensure compatibility while gradually building its ecosystem. However, a significant turning point came with the launch of HarmonyOS NEXT in October 2024, also referred to as HarmonyOS 5.0.0 for public beta with 2025 expansions. This iteration marks Huawei's complete detachment from the Android ecosystem, establishing HarmonyOS as a purely native platform. This native-only approach promises enhanced performance, robust security, and unparalleled cross-device integration, positioning it as a distinct alternative in the global operating system landscape. The very latest version, HarmonyOS 6, was released on October 22, 2025.
HarmonyOS is engineered with a microkernel design and a single framework that intelligently adapts to various device resources, enabling a "one-time development for multi-device deployment" philosophy. This facilitates seamless interactions and resource sharing across an extensive array of devices, from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs, watches, and even PCs. HarmonyOS 5, for instance, is aimed at replacing Windows on laptops and desktop computers, offering deep synergy with mobile HarmonyOS devices for features like shared clipboards and keyboard input. The system incorporates the HarmonyOS Kernel, StarShield security software, and the Ark Engine, contributing to its performance.
As of May 2024, HarmonyOS boasted over 800 million active devices and an expanding app ecosystem with 15,000 applications, including a native version of WeChat in testing. By 2025, HarmonyOS achieved a 5% global market share and has notably surpassed iOS in China, becoming the second-largest operating system in its home market. Current estimates suggest around 100 million users are running native HarmonyOS applications, underscoring its growing impact, particularly within the Chinese market.
