The ongoing tussle between Huawei and Google over operating systems has left many smartphone users pondering whether there will ever be a resolution to the matter. The uncertainty grew, especially after Huawei announced that it would cease supporting Android applications in its HarmonyOS operating system within China. This development has left users outside of China wondering about the fate of their beloved Google apps on Huawei devices.
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that Huawei currently employs two distinct operating systems for its smartphones: HarmonyOS and EMUI. HarmonyOS is Huawei’s proprietary operating system, developed as a viable alternative to Android following a series of sanctions imposed by the United States, which severed Huawei’s access to Google services and applications. Importantly, HarmonyOS is exclusively available within China and on select Huawei wearables. The Chinese government’s restrictions on Google services within the country allowed Huawei to develop HarmonyOS for a market where it already enjoys significant dominance.
On the other hand, EMUI is Huawei’s custom interface layer that overlays the Android operating system. EMUI is the operating system utilized by Huawei smartphones outside of China, where Google services and applications remain highly popular and in-demand among users. While EMUI is built upon the Android platform, it does not include pre-installed Google applications and services due to the US sanctions. Consequently, Huawei device users must explore alternative means to install and use Google apps, such as downloading them from third-party app stores or utilizing web-based versions.
So, what about Android apps on Huawei devices?
For Huawei users residing outside of China, there is a silver lining. According to a Huawei spokesperson, these users can rest assured that they will continue to have access to Android applications through the EMUI software version. This implies that Huawei currently has no immediate plans to introduce HarmonyOS for its global smartphone models, at least not in the near future. Huawei has further committed to supporting global developers to enhance development environments and tools, thereby improving the overall user experience for its international user base.
However, it is crucial to emphasize that Huawei remains dedicated to the development and deployment of HarmonyOS. The company is actively rolling out HarmonyOS across a wide array of devices, ranging from smartphones to tablets, smartwatches, televisions, automobiles, and more.
With the launch of HarmonyOS, Huawei aims to create its own ecosystem, effectively competing with the dominant players, Android and iOS, in the mobile market. Notably, Huawei has already introduced HarmonyOS on over 100 million devices within China, with ambitions to reach 300 million by year-end.
The reasons behind HarmonyOS not being extended globally may vary. Huawei might be focusing on ensuring that its operating system is mature and stable enough to deliver a seamless user experience on a global scale. Additionally, the company may be aiming to avoid potential legal or regulatory complications with Google or other countries, as HarmonyOS may share some elements of the Android source code.
It’s also possible that Huawei intends to continue supporting Android to ensure a smooth transition for its users, at least until HarmonyOS can offer a viable alternative to Google services and apps. The future of this ongoing battle between Huawei and Google remains uncertain, but for now, international Huawei users can continue to enjoy their Android applications through the EMUI interface.