HarmonyOS 4 Officially Launched
In the ever-evolving world of technology, Huawei’s HarmonyOS has emerged as a game-changer, marking a turning point in the operating system landscape. Four years ago, foreign companies dominated the definition of operating systems, leaving domestic Linux-based systems trailing behind. However, in 2019, Huawei introduced HarmonyOS, envisioning a connected world where all devices communicate seamlessly, bridging the gap between isolated islands and creating a true cross-device and cross-scenario integration ecology.
After years of relentless effort and substantial investments, HarmonyOS has grown to become the fastest-growing operating system in history, boasting a vast and thriving ecosystem. With over 700 million HarmonyOS ecological devices covering every aspect of smart homes and gadgets, Huawei has achieved remarkable success.
Today, on August 4th, Huawei unveiled the highly-anticipated HarmonyOS 4 at their developer conference. The new operating system exhibits a more personalized and dynamic approach, departing from the traditional business-heavy paradigm and catering to the preferences of a wider range of users.
The overall UI design of HarmonyOS 4 showcases a heightened level of personalization, allowing users to transform their photos into beautiful wallpapers and embracing more than 1,800 redesigned emojis, endearing and aligned with Chinese user habits.
One of the exciting features is the introduction of “Live Window” for mobile phones and tablets, and “Moon Window” for watches. This function, akin to Apple’s iOS real-time activities, efficiently displays application information on the screen and lock screen interface, enabling users to check notifications without unlocking their devices. This enhancement streamlines daily activities, offering convenience and ease of use.
The focus on office efficiency is evident through the introduction of the Super Transit Station, which supports more applications, enabling seamless text and picture extraction by double-finger long press and easy transfer to the transit station. Moreover, Super Desktop expands its scenarios, supporting handheld game streaming on smart cockpit screens and drone aerial photography screen flow to smart cockpits.
HarmonyOS 4 also leverages AI capabilities, upgrading Xiaoyi’s voice assistant with enhanced intelligent interactions, efficient productivity, and personalized services. The improved Xiaoyi boasts complex scene generation, quick summaries, natural dialogue, picture-based interactions, and more, enhancing user experiences and interactions.
Underpinning the system’s core is the newly developed “Ark Engine,” which encompasses graphics, multimedia, memory, scheduling, storage, and low power consumption. This optimization has led to a 20% performance boost, a 30-minute increase in battery life, faster camera startup, smoother picture loading, and more natural mobile phone animation effects.
Security remains a top priority in HarmonyOS 4, as Huawei exercises greater control over application risks. Automatic control of risky application installations, active interception at runtime, and restricted access to sensitive information minimize security threats. Additionally, users can manage application tracking, deciding whether to allow tracking of their activities on other apps and websites.
With the introduction of HarmonyOS 4, Huawei has truly elevated the operating system experience, presenting a dynamic and personalized ecosystem that unifies devices, enhances productivity, and ensures heightened security. The achievements of HarmonyOS are a testament to Huawei’s dedication to innovation and its vision of a seamlessly connected future. If your device is in reported earlier, you can experience HarmonyOS 4 beta from today.