How Huawei Plans to Keep Android App Support for Global users
Huawei recently introduced the next version of HarmonyOS, signaling a significant shift by excluding support for APK files, the native Android apps. This move, disclosed by Richard Yu, the CEO of Huawei, has left Huawei device owners worldwide perplexed about the impending changes.
A week after the initial announcement, Huawei issued a clarification stating that the new OS would not be extended to overseas units. Instead, mobile phones and tablets beyond China will continue operating on EMUI. It’s a HarmonyOS lookalike rooted in the Android Open Source Project. However, EMUI lacks Google services and apps, while still maintaining compatibility with native Android apps.
Huawei’s Transition to HarmonyOS: What It Means for International Devices
China Mobile, a key player in the telecom industry, emphasized that Huawei is committed to enhancing global developer support. Despite the absence of Google services, Huawei has cultivated a vast community of app developers focused on ensuring the seamless functioning of Android apps from third-party stores on its devices.
Huawei executives, both on and off the record, have reiterated multiple times that support for phones and tablets in international markets will persist and expand. The company remains steadfast in its vision of being a prominent player in both software and hardware within the mobile phone industry.
An official confirmation has been provided that Huawei intends to retain the Emotion UI (EMUI) branding for its devices outside of China until it is confident that users are ready to embrace the transition to HarmonyOS. This strategic approach underscores Huawei’s commitment to a gradual integration of its new operating system. Acknowledging the importance of user readiness.
In conclusion, Huawei’s unveiling of HarmonyOS Next brings about a notable change by excluding support for native Android apps. While the initial confusion prompted by the announcement has been clarified, Huawei’s commitment to global markets and its meticulous strategy for the transition to HarmonyOS reflect the company’s determination to maintain its position as a leader in both software and hardware in the global mobile phone arena.
Here is a table summarizing the key points of the subject:
