HUAWEI has officially introduced its first PC operating system based on HarmonyOS 5 (HarmonyOS NEXT), marking a major expansion of its in-house platform.
Announced during the HarmonyOS Computer Technology and Ecosystem Communication Event in China, the new OS targets the domestic market, with Huawei describing the system as “One as All, All as One.”
HarmonyOS 5 for PCs
HUAWEI claims HarmonyOS 5 offers a fluid, AI-enhanced experience powered by the Xiaoyi assistant. The OS supports seamless integration with Huawei smartphones, tablets, and laptops, and is compatible with over 1,000 external devices across 20 categories, including 800 standard (keyboards, monitors) and 250 non-standard peripherals (printers, scanners).
Interface and Customization
The interface features smooth lock screen-to-desktop transitions, dynamic wallpapers, layered apps, and customizable icons, widgets, and taskbars. Motion effects, light and shadow rendering, and gravity-based visuals enhance UI personalization.
Gesture support includes three-finger swipes for multitasking. The Ark graphics engine ensures smooth rendering with Fangtian Window and pixel-level occlusion culling.
Xiaoyi AI Assistant Features
Xiaoyi handles voice, text, and image tasks, including:
- Extracting and translating text/tables from images in 21 languages
- Generating templates, presentations, mind maps, and travel guides
- Providing real-time meeting transcriptions and summaries
- Assisting with device troubleshooting and smart layouts for PPTs
Cross-Device Collaboration
HarmonyOS PCs support “full-scenario interconnection” with features like app handoff, shared clipboard, drag-and-drop multi-window, and screen mirroring. Users can share a keyboard/mouse and move the cursor between devices with eye movement. HUAWEI Share allows fast file transfers at up to 160MB/s with support for four simultaneous tasks.
Privacy and Security
Built on the StarShield architecture, the system reduces vulnerabilities by 50%. Data is protected by system-level encryption and lock screen validation. Apps require real-name authentication for listing.
Features include one-time data permissions, file sharing restrictions, an anti-peeping screen, and “super privacy mode.” The “Star Flash Find” tool locates devices even when turned off and supports remote data wiping.
App Ecosystem
The HarmonyOS ecosystem boasts a selection of over 150 apps specifically designed for PC, alongside more than 2,000 universal apps spanning productivity, design, finance, education, and entertainment.
With HarmonyOS Base, which includes tools like ArkTS, ArkUI, and DevEco, users can expect optimized performance, faster app launches, and seamless integration across devices.
Key Features at a Glance
- Graphics: 32% smoother multi-window performance with the Ark engine
- Security: StarShield + remote device locating and wiping
- Transfer: HUAWEI Share supports 160MB/s high-speed sharing
- Apps: Built-in App Dock includes Settings, Gallery, App Store, Memo, and more
- UI: Customizable gestures, widgets, wallpapers, and transitions
Launch Details
The company announced that the first HarmonyOS PC will launch in China on May 19, 2025, at 14:30, with further details expected to be revealed during the event.