HarmonyOS is a distributed operating system developed by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. Originally released in August 2019, it was created as a cross-platform operating system capable of running on a variety of devices, from smartphones to tablets to smart TVs and in-vehicle navigation systems. In response to trade tensions between the United States and China that have affected Huawei’s access to American technology, HarmonyOS has been presented as an Android alternative for the Chinese domestic market.
The main feature of HarmonyOS is its microkernel, which promises an increased level of security and performance by reducing the code that runs in kernel space, thus limiting the attack surface for security threats. The operating system was also designed to facilitate communication between various devices by implementing a distributed model that allows applications to be scaled and adapted for different types of screens and hardware resources.
In addition to security and interoperability, HarmonyOS also emphasizes a smooth and intuitive user experience. With an adaptable user interface, HarmonyOS aims to provide a consistent experience across all types of devices. Huawei has also developed its own app store, HMS (Huawei Mobile Services), and a set of APIs to encourage developers to create apps compatible with the new platform. With all these innovations, HarmonyOS aspires to become a significant component in the global technology ecosystem.
What is HarmonyOS?
HarmonyOS is an operating system developed by Huawei, designed to be used on a wide variety of devices, from smartphones to smart home appliances.
Development and History
HarmonyOS, originally known as HongMeng OS in China, was officially unveiled by Huawei in August 2019. It was created in response to uncertainties about access to American technologies stemming from trade tensions between the United States and China. Focused on flexibility and adaptability, HarmonyOS has been designed to work on a variety of devices, including mobile phones, smartwatches, in-vehicle systems and other smart devices.
Main Features
Cross-Device Distribution: HarmonyOS allows the sharing of applications and services between various devices without requiring additional software installation.
- Deterministic Skills: The system uses a new microkernel that aims to reduce latency and improve performance by managing resources more efficiently.
Consolidated Safety: Thanks to its innovative microkernel structure, HarmonyOS promotes increased security as the attack surface is minimized.
- Unified Ecosystem: The various apps built for HarmonyOS can be used on any device in the ecosystem, providing a seamless and integrated experience for users.
Adaptable UI: The user interface adapts according to the device, allowing a smooth transition between screens of different sizes and types of interaction.
System Architecture
HarmonyOS is an operating system developed by Huawei that adopts a unique distributed architecture designed to provide a seamless experience across multiple devices. Its architecture is based on a microkernel, which allows the operating system to work not only on smartphones, but also on other types of devices, such as tablets, smart TVs and embedded systems.
The microkernel is designed to improve the security and efficiency of scheduling algorithms while providing a limited set of minimal functionality for resource management. This core is accompanied by a resource management service which optimizes memory and CPU usage between different applications and services.
- Virtues of Distributed Architecture:
- Complicated Communication: Allows devices to communicate with each other efficiently by sharing capabilities.
- Apps Across Devices: Apps can move and run smoothly on different devices.
Harmony between software and hardware is essential in HarmonyOS. By using ARK Compiler, allows developers to write code once that runs on multiple types of devices, increasing the adaptability of the operating system. In addition, this operating system emphasizes on security with built-in mechanisms such as formal code security checking at the microkernel level.
Ecosystem and Compatible Devices
HarmonyOS is an operating system developed by Huawei, designed to be used on a wide variety of devices, creating a connected ecosystem. The device community that support HarmonyOS include smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, vehicle systems and even home appliances.
Smartphones and Tablets
- Huawei Pura Series
- Huawei P series
- Huawei Mate series
- Huawei MatePad tablets
These devices benefit from interoperabilityfacilitating information exchange and data synchronization between them.
Smart Watches and Fitness Bracelets
- Huawei Watch GT
- Huawei Band
Wearables integrate Huawei Healthproviding the user with health monitoring and sports functions.
Smart Home Systems and Devices
- Huawei Vision S Smart TV
- Smart home appliances
These products use HarmonyOS to enable smartphone or voice control for a “smarter” and more connected home.
Systems for Vehicles
HarmonyOS extends its functionality into vehicle systems, promoting better integration with other personal gadgets and enhanced connectivity features.
It is constantly being worked on expanding the list of compatible devices, and developers are encouraged to create applications that integrate harmoniously into this ecosystem. The company emphasizes the importance of a multi-device operating system that provide a fluid and cohesive user experience.
The future of HarmonyOS
HarmonyOS, developed by Huawei, it is expected to extend to a variety of smart devices. With its unique adaptability, the operating system is designed to work on phones, smart watches and even in smart home ecosystems.
It is expected that the number of devices running HarmonyOS to grow, according to Huawei’s commitment to invest in innovation. Also Huawei plan to collaborate with third party developers to a increase the app store own, AppGallery, to compete with other major platforms.
| The year | HarmonyOS user growth estimate |
|---|---|
| 2024 | +30% compared to the previous year |
| 2025 | +50% compared to the previous year |
Security was also remain a priority for Huawei again the updates operating system are intended to improve data protection and privacy of users. Also, improvements in performance and Energetic efficiency are EXPECTED in the future with regular updates.
Efforts for internationalization HarmonyOS will continue in an attempt to lessen the impact of trade restrictions imposed by the US. Huawei inted to build global partnerships, increasing the adoption of HarmonyOS beyond the Chinese market.
Interoperability is another long-term goal, and the strategy includes CONNECTING of a wide spectrum of devices created by various companies, thus creating a robust ecosystem and integrity.
In conclusion, HarmonyOS progress is expected to influence operating systems marketnot just in terms of mobile phones, but across the entire landscape of connected devices.
