As Huawei continues to grow, it released an upgraded generation of its operating system in June, moving forward with the HarmonyOS NEXT system. Marking a fully new version, HarmonyOS will no longer rely on other application ecosystems and, like Apple, will feature its own ecosystem. Huawei also made upgrades to the system’s kernel and architecture, integrating its Pangu AI model across various system functions like imaging and office ecosystems, with additional features still in development. This comprehensive approach aims to establish a complete ecosystem.
At the end of October, Huawei rolled out the official HarmonyOS NEXT version, often referred to as the “Pure HarmonyOS.” It supports public beta testing on multiple devices, including the Huawei Pura 70 series, Pocket 2 series, Mate 60 series, Mate X5 series, and MatePad Pro series, targeting primarily flagship phones, foldable devices, and flagship tablets. Updates for lower- and mid-range models are scheduled for 2025. This official release highlights native applications, security, and connectivity to form Huawei’s ecosystem. Also included is the Ark Engine, designed to enhance system, application, and gaming smoothness.
Currently, over 80% of commonly used native applications are included, with more than 1,500 native applications and services available, and additional ones anticipated. Tencent’s WeChat is also now on the platform, though in a beta stage only. Users with HarmonyOS NEXT 0.0.72 or higher can apply for the WeChat beta, now updated to version 1.0.1.37. This testing phase will last from November 9 to November 30. The beta version features only basic functions, but updates and feature expansions are being added rapidly, with several new versions introduced in just a few days.
The latest WeChat 1.0.1.37 version boasts a classic, simple, and sleek design, similar to its early stages. The interface currently includes only core features, with no third-party ecosystem integrations yet, though more will be added over time. The official version is expected before the Huawei Mate 70 series launch. Reports indicate that the Mate 70 series will come pre-installed with the official HarmonyOS NEXT. Huawei has teased that the Mate 70 series, touted as the “most powerful Mate,” will debut in November.
According to recent reports, the Huawei Mate 70 series will feature the next-generation Kirin flagship chip, significantly improved in manufacturing and overall performance to achieve flagship standards. However, it remains behind the 3nm Snapdragon 8 Supreme and Dimensity 9400 chips, and Huawei will need more time to close this gap. The display has also been upgraded, with the standard version featuring a 1.5K screen and a centered single-hole flat design, while the high-end version is expected to have a 2K screen with a centered triple-hole, symmetrical quad-curve design. Both support a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
For durability, the Mate 70 series will utilize the new-generation Kunlun Glass and the latest Xuanwu architecture, enhancing its drop resistance. It also boasts dual IP68 & IP69 water resistance, offering protection against rain, sweat, and splashes. The entire series supports two-way satellite communication and the next-generation Lingxi technology, delivering stronger signals and a smoother network experience, positioning it as the most powerful Mate device to date. With this flagship release, Huawei introduces major upgrades, especially in processor and system improvements.
