Huawei's upcoming HarmonyOS Next operating system is poised for release, marking a significant shift away from Android app support. Unlike its predecessors, HarmonyOS Next will not rely on Google's Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code, instead utilizing Huawei's own kernel and system. This move entails the elimination of Android app compatibility, requiring developers to create native HarmonyOS applications.
The decision to abandon Android app support aligns with Huawei's efforts to establish an independent ecosystem, free from reliance on Google's services. This transition is evident in the introduction of HAP, Huawei's proprietary app format, which will replace the widely used APK format for Android apps.
While the exact release date for HarmonyOS Next remains undisclosed, indications suggest that it could be rolled out to users in the near future. In preparation for this transition, Chinese tech giants like Meituan, NetEase, and JD.com have begun recruiting HarmonyOS app developers to ensure a robust app ecosystem for Huawei devices.
The developer preview for HarmonyOS Next is expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2024, providing developers with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the new platform and begin developing native applications.