Huawei’s big shift: No more Windows PCs?

Huawei is on the verge of a major change in its computer business. Starting April 2025, the company will no longer use Windows as the default operating system for its new PCs. Reports suggest that Huawei may soon lose the ability to sell Windows-powered computers in China, forcing the company to explore alternative solutions.

Instead of Windows, Huawei is turning to Linux and its own operating system, HarmonyOS. Initially, HarmonyOS was built on the Android Open Source Project and the Linux kernel, according to a TechSpot report.

However, in 2023, Huawei introduced HarmonyOS NEXT, a version completely independent of Android and Windows. This new system uses a native application format based on JavaScript and TypeScript — a significant departure from traditional operating systems.

One major reason behind this shift is Huawei's position on the US Department of Commerce's Entity List. This listing means the company requires a special licence to use Windows. If Microsoft stops renewing Huawei's licences, it could mark the end of their partnership.

To keep its PC business alive, Huawei is preparing to launch a new AI-powered computer featuring its in-house Kunpeng CPU and the latest version of HarmonyOS NEXT. This system is expected to debut in April 2025 and will include AI applications developed by DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence firm.

Additionally, Huawei is working on a Linux-based MateBook D16, offering customers another alternative to Windows.

Despite Huawei's efforts, Windows compatibility remains a crucial requirement for many users in China. The company claims that more than 10,000 apps and services are now available on HarmonyOS, with adoption by organisations like the Shanghai municipal government.