Huawei debuts First Laptops with HarmonyOS Operating System
Huawei has launched its first laptops running on the company’s own HarmonyOS, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on Western technologies. The two new models—MateBook Fold and MateBook Pro—aim to challenge industry giants Microsoft and Apple, whose operating systems dominate the global market.
The MateBook Fold, priced at 23,999 yuan ($3,328), features an 18-inch OLED foldable screen and ditches the traditional physical keyboard. Meanwhile, the MateBook Pro, starting at 7,999 yuan, offers a more conventional design with a standard keyboard. Both devices run HarmonyOS 5, the latest version of the operating system Huawei began developing in 2015 and first introduced on smartphones in 2020.
Huawei began working on HarmonyOS-based laptops in 2021, continuing its push to build a self-reliant tech ecosystem. According to Yu Chengdong, head of the consumer business group, the new laptops represent “a new choice for the world.” He emphasised that although the journey was challenging, the company remained committed to doing “the right things.”
A Strategic Move Amid Global Restrictions
Since 2019, the U.S. has imposed restrictions on Huawei, citing national security concerns. These measures have blocked access to essential components such as processors from Intel and Qualcomm. In response, Huawei has invested heavily in developing its own operating system and chip technologies. Although the company has not revealed which chip powers the new laptops, it noted that the high price reflects the cost of the new manufacturing processes involved.
Despite these challenges, Huawei’s HarmonyOS has seen growing adoption. By the end of 2024, it had been installed on more than a billion devices, including smartphones and televisions. Additionally, over 7.2 million developers were actively building apps for the system, underscoring its expanding ecosystem.
Currently, HarmonyOS for PCs supports more than 150 applications. Notable offerings include WPS Office by Kingsoft an alternative to Microsoft Office and the photo editing tool Meitu Xiu Xiu. These options are intended to provide users with a viable alternative to well-known Western software platforms.
Positioning HarmonyOS as a Global Contender
Huawei’s entry into the laptop market with HarmonyOS is not just a technological shift; it is also a strategic message. The company aims to position itself as a competitive global player in both hardware and software. While much work remains to challenge the dominance of Windows and macOS, the release of HarmonyOS-powered laptops demonstrates Huawei’s intent to lead in the post-U.S. tech landscape.
As geopolitical tensions continue to affect global tech supply chains, Huawei is accelerating its innovation roadmap. This latest release may not immediately threaten market leaders, but it does signal a growing ambition. With continued development, the company could become a significant force in shaping the future of computing.
