HarmonyOS is Huawei's own operating system, designed to work on lots of different smart devices like fitness wearables, smartwatches, smartphones, and smart home tech.
If you’ve got a Huawei product, or are thinking about getting one, here's what you need to know.
What is Harmony OS?
HarmonyOS is a one-size-fits-all multi-device operating system designed to power Huawei's connected tech. It lets different Huawei devices hook up together and speak the same language. And it makes collaboration smooth, simple and user-friendly.
How does HarmonyOS work?
With HarmonyOS working across all your Huawei devices, it can do lots of clever things
For example, when you get a call on your phone it’ll automatically pause that distracting video playing on your laptop. Your call could then get sent to your headphones via your smartwatch. Very seamless, very smooth.
You can also call on Celia for help - Huawei’s exclusive voice assistant. It does all the usual things you’d expect, such as setting alarms, getting news updates, and answering any question you can think of.
What are the differences between HarmonyOS and Android?
Huawei has designed the HarmonyOS to be completely different from Android. While Android offers different versions for phones, watches, and tablets, the Harmony OS gives you a matching set of features, apps, and support no matter what device you’re on.
What apps can I use with HarmonyOS?
Huawei Mobile Services (HMS) is a core feature of HarmonyOS, and it’s a replacement for the Google services on Android devices.
You can’t use Google apps on the HarmonyOS. So instead of the Google Play Store, you’ve got an app store called AppGallery. It’s packed with apps like Huawei Cloud, Huawei Assistant, and Huawei Music – all solid alternatives to Android stock apps. Plus, you’ve got big names like TikTok and Snapchat.
Does the HarmonyOS run on any smartwatches?
HarmonyOS runs on the latest Huawei smartwatches. The Huawei Watch GT3 Active and Huawei Watch 3 Pro Classic, both have ultra-clear 1.4" vivid AMOLED displays, great for viewing the newly designed HarmonyOS homescreen on. Apps are displayed on a grid, rather than a list, although you can switch this back if you prefer.
When did Harmony OS come out?
After years of development, HarmonyOS was officially launched by Huawei back in June 2021.
Need any help?
Got your eye on some new tech? Thinking of making the switch to Huawei? If you’d like more help choosing, chat to our expert colleagues in-store or online using ShopLive.