In a bold move that could reshape the global PC landscape, Huawei has officially launched its own PC operating system based entirely on HarmonyOS , marking yet another step toward full technological independence. The announcement came during Huawei’s recent HarmonyOS computer technology and ecosystem communication event, where the company unveiled a fully functional, production-ready OS built with its own kernel, performance engine, and security architecture.
This is not just a mobile OS scaled up for desktops — it’s a complete, standalone operating system designed specifically for PCs, and it’s already available for download and installation.
A Complete Break from US Tech Ecosystems
Since being cut off from Google Mobile Services and US-based chip technologies following trade restrictions in 2019, Huawei has steadily rebuilt itself with homegrown solutions. First came HarmonyOS for smartphones, tablets, TVs, and wearables. Then came Huawei-developed chipsets like the Kirin and Ascend series. Now, with HarmonyOS for PCs , the company completes a fully integrated ecosystem spanning phones, tablets, cars, smart homes, and now desktop computing.
The new OS features:
Huawei’s own kernel (no Linux or Windows code)
ARC Engine for enhanced performance
Star Shield Architecture for advanced security
Huawei says this is a true alternative to Windows and macOS — built from the ground up without any reliance on foreign codebases.
HarmonyOS PC: UI, Performance, and App Support
The user interface of HarmonyOS for PCs is sleek and modern, featuring an app dock at the bottom similar to macOS, with core apps like Settings, Browser, Gallery, Memo, and a dedicated HarmonyOS App Store. At the top left are quick-access tools such as “My Huawei” and File Management.
Users also enjoy a universal home screen with widget support , something still evolving on Windows.
Huawei claims that over 2,000 applications already run smoothly on HarmonyOS for PCs, including 150 exclusive apps developed specifically for the platform. The company emphasized smooth multitasking and fluid window transitions thanks to the ARC graphics engine, suggesting a highly optimized experience tailored for productivity and everyday use.
How To Download and Install HarmonyOS on Any PC
While HarmonyOS for PCs is currently being rolled out on Huawei-branded laptops and desktops in China, the company has also released a public version for general users , allowing anyone to install it on compatible x86-based PCs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Download and Install HarmonyOS on Any PC:
- Check Hardware Requirements:
64-bit Intel or AMD processor (x86_64 architecture)
Minimum 8GB RAM (16GB recommended)
At least 64GB of free disk space
UEFI firmware support
USB port for bootable installer
- Visit the Official Website:
Go to the Huawei HarmonyOS Developer website :
https://developer.harmonyos.com - Download the ISO Image:
Navigate to the PC OS downloads section and choose your preferred version:
HarmonyOS PC Standard Edition (for general users)
HarmonyOS PC Developer Edition (with SDK tools)
- Create a Bootable USB Drive:
Use tools like Rufus (Windows) or Ventoy to create a bootable USB drive from the downloaded ISO image. - Boot Into BIOS/UEFI:
Insert the USB drive into your PC and restart. Enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del at startup), and set the USB drive as the primary boot device. - Install HarmonyOS:
Follow the on-screen instructions to install HarmonyOS on your PC. You can choose to dual-boot with Windows or replace it entirely. - Post-Installation Setup:
Once installed, you’ll be guided through initial setup steps including language, region, account login (Huawei ID), and app store access.
What About Compatibility?
Huawei has stated that while HarmonyOS for PCs is currently optimized for its own hardware, they are working closely with third-party manufacturers and developers to improve driver support and hardware compatibility across non-Huawei devices.
They have also launched a Compatibility Center online where users can check if their specific PC models or peripherals are supported.
