Kristina Roberts
Huawei has recently unveiled two new laptops, marking a significant step in its journey towards technological independence. These laptops, named MateBook Fold and MateBook Pro, are the first to operate on Huawei’s own HarmonyOS 5 system. This move comes as the company seeks to reduce its reliance on U.S. technology, especially after facing restrictions that limited its access to essential components like chips.
The MateBook Fold is a unique device featuring an 18-inch OLED screen that can be folded, eliminating the need for a physical keyboard. This innovative design allows for a more versatile user experience. On the other hand, the MateBook Pro retains the traditional laptop design with a standard keyboard, catering to users who prefer a conventional setup. Both models are powered by HarmonyOS 5, an operating system Huawei began developing in 2015 and introduced to its smartphones in 2020.
Yu Chengdong, the head of Huawei’s consumer business group, expressed the company’s commitment to innovation during the launch event. He stated, “The Harmony laptop gives the world a new choice. We kept on doing the hard things but the right things.” This sentiment reflects Huawei’s determination to forge its own path in the tech industry, despite facing significant challenges.
The pricing of these laptops reflects the advanced technology and innovation involved. The MateBook Fold is priced at 23,999 yuan, approximately $3,328, while the MateBook Pro starts at 7,999 yuan. Huawei attributes the higher prices to the costs associated with new manufacturing technologies required for the chipsets used in these devices.
While Huawei has not disclosed the specific processors powering these laptops, reports suggest that the MateBook Pro utilizes the Kirin X90 chip, developed in-house by Huawei’s HiSilicon division. This chip is designed to offer robust performance, although it may not match the speed of leading processors currently available in the market. Nonetheless, early demonstrations indicate that HarmonyOS 5 delivers a smooth and responsive user experience, even when handling multiple large files simultaneously.
HarmonyOS 5 brings several enhancements to the user interface, aiming to provide a seamless and intuitive experience. The operating system features a dedicated app store and supports a range of applications tailored for productivity and creativity. Notably, it includes WPS Office, a popular alternative to Microsoft’s Office suite, and Meitu Xiu Xiu, a photo editing application. By the end of 2024, over 7.2 million developers were actively creating apps for HarmonyOS, which had been installed on more than a billion devices, including smartphones and TVs.
The introduction of HarmonyOS laptops signifies Huawei’s broader strategy to establish a self-sufficient tech ecosystem. This move is particularly significant in light of the U.S. government’s decision in 2019 to restrict Huawei’s access to American technology, citing national security concerns. These restrictions prompted Huawei to invest heavily in developing its own chips and operating systems, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign technology providers.
In addition to software advancements, Huawei has focused on enhancing the overall user experience. The HarmonyOS laptops incorporate features like Ark Graphics, which improves visual performance and ensures smooth operation even when multiple windows are open. The system also includes StarShield, a robust security framework designed to protect user data and provide features like remote data erasure and device tracking through Nearlink technology.
Moreover, HarmonyOS supports seamless integration with a wide range of devices, facilitating a cohesive ecosystem. Users can easily connect their laptops with other Huawei devices, such as smartphones and tablets, enabling functionalities like cross-device collaboration and app continuation. This interconnected approach aligns with Huawei’s vision of creating a unified and efficient digital environment for its users.
While the HarmonyOS laptops may face challenges in gaining widespread adoption, particularly in markets dominated by Windows and macOS, they hold significant potential in specific sectors. Government agencies and state-owned enterprises, which often prioritize data security and prefer domestically developed technology, may find these laptops particularly appealing. Additionally, the growing ecosystem of HarmonyOS applications and compatible devices could attract users seeking an integrated and secure computing experience.
Huawei‘s launch of HarmonyOS-powered laptops marks a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. By developing its own operating system and hardware, Huawei demonstrates resilience and a commitment to innovation in the face of external pressures. As the company continues to refine its technology and expand its ecosystem, it positions itself as a formidable player in the global tech landscape, offering alternatives to established Western systems.
This strategic move not only reflects Huawei’s adaptability but also underscores the broader trend of technological self-reliance emerging in response to geopolitical dynamics. As Huawei continues to invest in research and development, its HarmonyOS laptops may pave the way for a new era of diversified and secure computing solutions.
