Wang Boli – an app developer explored the HarmonyOS NEXT beta build and tries its features. During his exploration, Wang discovered that the new Huawei HarmonyOS NEXT is a closed operating system, similar to iOS.

Simply put, the new HarmonyOS version doesn’t support smartphones or devices from other brands. It will only work with Huawei products as it is a closed operating system just like Apple iOS.

Wang further said HarmonyOS NEXT is a unified and complete operating system. Yet it seems a bit difficult to understand in some aspects. Whereas, the third-party OS(s) appears relatively simple with minimalistic features.

The app developer anticipates that Huawei will enhance the new OS and make it even better in the future. We can expect more interesting changes as well.

HarmonyOS NEXT is a closed operating system, just like iOS: Developer (Image Credits: MyDrivers)

HarmonyOS NEXT is based on OpenHarmony, an open-source distributed operating system. Huawei says that the new OS is a true and real operating system.

Unlike the previous versions, HarmonyOS NEXT doesn’t contain any U.S.-based components. For instance, Linux, other system kernels, programming languages, and more.

But since it eliminates Android codes, it loses the points of supporting other apps except for the native ones. Yu Chengdong – the Chairman of Huawei Consumer Business said that HarmonyOS NEXT will connect many devices under various scenarios.

Huawei has achieved an operating system in 10 years that took the US and Europe 30 years to develop. It will slowly bring more new changes and useful enhancements that can be beneficial for users and other customers in every manner.

(source)

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The company has shared some insights on this development saying that its partners started these app development on September 25, 2023, and the number continues to grow as of October 2024.

Yu Chengdong, Chairman of Huawei Consumer Business Group has made this announcement official with a giant presentation of all of the app icons including during HarmonyOS NEXT unveiling.

These new numbers are important for Huawei’s growth in smart operating systems. It has been working with these developers for the past four years and finally set a feat to compete against Android.

Huawei reveals 15,000 native HarmonyOS apps (Source – Huawei)

These native apps are exclusively developed for HarmonyOS. Huawei said the new HarmonyOS NEXT comes with fluency and operational performance improvements.

These new upgrades will appear during app interactions and smoothen the overall experience. Speaking of which, Huawei has made some fresh changes in the UI, which will also enhance the app’s graphical appearance and animations and adapt them to different platforms including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and more.

At the Huawei Developer Conference 2024, the tech maker announced that HarmonyOS native apps have entered a final phase of development. All of the top 5000 apps have turned into the native HarmonyOS ecosystem.

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In 2019, the Chinese tech maker introduced HarmonyOS in the wake of US sanctions. The US banned the company from accessing Android and Google Play Services (GMS). This led to a sharp decline in Huawei’s smartphone sales in the global market.

In 2020, HarmonyOS entered mobile devices and adapted for millions of devices. Initially, the software’s interface and features were identical to its Android-based counterpart “EMUI”.

Some software industry observers criticized Huawei’s new mobile operating system and called it a “forked Android”. These allegations have a simple connection with Android Open Source library integration to HarmonyOS code.

The company separated both software ecosystems and kept HarmonyOS exclusive to the Chinese market where it still sells a majority of devices.

The initial HarmonyOS software has Android app support due to the lack of an app ecosystem. The company wanted to use its existing developer base for EMUI devices. In the past three years, it has turned this base into HarmonyOS and added millions of new developers.

This continued until last year when Huawei announced the development of a native HarmonyOS version. The company also confirmed that this new software will run only HarmonyOS apps.

This news has made many headlines across the internet due to the potential it could bring in the competition against iOS and Android, two of the most dominating mobile OS.

That brings us back to HarmonyOS, the company has been working on this OS for the past two years. Throughout this time, it has been cooperating with Chinese software industry leaders to create a whole environment of HarmonyOS NEXT apps.

Some of the notable names are Tencent, ByteDance, JD.com and more. As of October 2024, these firms have completed their HarmonyOS NEXT app and could launch their release version any time soon.

Aside from the ecosystem, this new HarmonyOS NEXT launched with performance upgrades compared to its predecessor. It has fluid animations and better-optimized visuals.

Furthermore, the software is labeled as HarmonyOS NEXT 5, which indicates that the software is moving further from HarmonyOS 4.

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The company is informing its app developers about the new HarmonyOS NEXT API 12 SDK. As per the official notice, Huawei will only support API 12-based apps on the HarmonyOS NEXT AppGallery, starting from November 10, 2024.

Other applications based on the beta API 12 or below builds won’t be listed on the AppGallery. Hence, developers should update their apps to the latest SDK version at the earliest. Or else, their applications may face restriction problems.

“Starting from November 10, 2024, Huawei AppGallery on HarmonyOS NEXT will only support API 12 apps that have integrated Release SDK and Beta apps of API 12 or below will be restricted. Please complete the version update as soon as possible. Thank you for your cooperation and support!.”

API (Application Programming Interface) and SDK (Software Development Kit) are significant tools for developers to build apps. In the latest API 12 release, Huawei made amendments that make apps more compatible with HarmonyOS NEXT.

HarmonyOS NEXT AppGallery to support only API 12 apps: Huawei (Image Credits: ITHome)

Inputs further reveal that Huawei has released the DevEco Studio NEXT 5.0.3.900 version. It is a dedicated development platform for apps and services. It offers multiple features and supports various programming languages, the multi-device preview of UI codes, and other significant tools for app making.

The company is now asking its developers to download the new DevEco Studio version for recompiling and updating their applications with the API 12 SDK.

Changes:

• ohpm-repo adds the use_reverse_proxy field to configure whether to use the reverse proxy option.
• The API capability level of this version is API 12 release

Doing so will make the native apps more compatible with HarmonyOS NEXT as well as enable users to easily manage them on their devices. It will also make them stable and more responsive towards new features and existing services.

(Source 1 2)

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The South Korean tech giant is not only focusing on making its UI segment incredible but also easier to navigate. Despite an attractive interface, users often get stuck with the usage and navigation part of the One UI software updates.

But it seems the company is fixing this problem with the One UI 7.0. This could also be a reason why Samsung is taking time to release its new One UI beta update for developers and users. So without any delays, let’s take a look at new changes.

One UI 7.0 Camera Interface

The company is ready to give a bold revamp to the camera segment with the One UI 7.0 upgrade. The recent One UI 7.0 early build leaks suggest that the tech maker will adopt a more simple and easy-to-use camera interface with the new OS.

Looking into the details, shooting models like Photos, Videos, Portraits, and other labels now appear at the bottom of the screen. It is the perfect spot to switch between camera modes and other shooting tools without spending much time.

One UI 7.0 to bring simpler and easier camera interface

Camera controls are now far better than the previous builds. One UI 7.0 has a new single tab as the replacement for Night Shot mode. The exact function of this button at the bottom of the camera interface is unclear. Though we may get details soon.

Other controls like Settings, Flash, Timer, Aspect Ratio, and Motion Photo can be found in the lower middle of the screen. These simple but significant changes will offer a clutter-free camera interface to users.

These changes even seem effective for those who prefer using the device in the one-handed mode. Such users can also opt for certain options from the top right corner of the camera layout. These changes could differ in the stable version. Hence, let’s wait more on this segment till the official rollout.

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A recent discussion on Samsung community confirmed that One UI 7.0 public beta will launch soon. Some users asked if the new software beta will only be available to developers. The query points out users’ curiosity to test the latest One UI OS.

Responding to the thread, a moderator said that One UI 7 testing will soon enter the public phase. The company hasn’t confirmed the beta schedule yet. Once done, the new software beta will go to the public. Hence, wait patiently.

It looks like Samsung is giving some final touch-ups to its new One UI version. The Android 15-based One UI is expected to bring better upgrades, smoother animations, and effective features. Thus, the delay in this case seems good.

Further details reveal that users will be notified via the Samsung Members app about the beta progress. Therefore, we suggest keeping the app up-to-date with the latest version. Also, ensure sufficient storage space in your Samsung smartphone.

During the SDC 2024, the company confirmed that One UI 7.0 beta will be open for developers by the end of this year. Though the moderator’s words reflect that One UI 7 beta will also be available for the public right after or alongside developers.

Confirmed: Samsung One UI 7.0 public beta launching soon (Image Credits: Samsung Community)

Last year, Samsung unveiled the Android 14-based One UI 6 in October. But this time, the launch has extended to the Galaxy S25 series release in 2025.

However, the moderator’s latest clarification has confirmed that Samsung phone users may soon get the chance to test the One UI 7.0 software and its features. While the time is still unclear, it might be around December this year.

Being the latest flagship in the Samsung gallery, the Galaxy S24 series will be the first to fetch the new One UI 7.0 beta program. Meanwhile, the tech giant will add more devices to the list as the beta will proceed to the next rounds.

(Source/Via)

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WeChat is a Chinese social media app that gives access to messaging and payment operations. Users can share messages, stickers, images, or make voice/video calls.

As of now, the respective app adapted to the native HarmonyOS ecosystem with new features and smart services. Tencent has announced the WeChat HarmonyOS NEXT app testing for some users. It is also sending invitations that read:

“On October 8, the WeChat HarmonyOS native version officially started invitation-based internal testing. Users who have upgraded to the latest HarmonyOS NEXT software system will be the first to experience it (after receiving the invitation).”

Note that the company is sending the beta testing invitation to random users. It states that those who have not received the notification yet can wait patiently. They will soon be able to log in to the “early adopter version” of the app.

WeChat begins HarmonyOS NEXT beta testing (Image Credits: Weibo)

The invitation further reveals that the current beta app version offers some basic features to users. For instance, social networking, seamless audio, and video calls, Moments (a tool that allows sharing images, videos, and texts with friends), WeChat Pay QR code, and other payment-related functionalities.

Apart from the WeChat app, more than 20 Tencent apps adapted to the HarmonyOS native version. The list includes QQ, Tencent Meeting, Tencent Video, Tencent News, Tencent Sports, QQ Browser, Enterprise WeChat, QQ Music, and more.

These are and will be available for beta testing gradually. Meanwhile, users proceeding with the WeChat HarmonyOS NEXT beta testing should note some points.

Key Notes:

• Use the system browser on the HarmonyOS NEXT device to open the invitation link.
• Confirm that the device has the upgraded AppGallery.
• Tap ‘Start Testing’ to enter the app’s beta test program > participate in the test > install the test version.
• If the test details page doesn’t open, the release range of this version may not include the respective device. Please contact the developer for confirmation.

(source)

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HarmonyOS NEXT public beta program has brought an end to the long-running anticipation of consumers. Previous testing versions were limited to developers and early adopters. But now the company has extended the testing to public testers.

Up to this point, the company has pushed off several developer beta builds for experienced software testers. Now the new self-developed software is open to general device users to explore new features before the stable release.

The tech giant has launched the latest beta activity for the first batch of devices. The list includes Mate 60 series, Mate X5 foldable, and MatePad Pro 13.2 tablet.

Simply put, the HarmonyOS NEXT public beta version will be available to these device users right after they sign up in the current testing pool. They don’t have to wait for the rollout like the closed beta devices (Pura 70, Pocket 2, and more).

How to sign up?

Eligible device users can check the HarmonyOS NEXT public beta activity on the My Huawei app. Open the application and select the “Upgrade” or “Upgrade to Try” option. Wait for a few minutes and follow the on-screen prompts to register.

After completing the signup, users will immediately get the new public beta update with some interesting features and a set of new improvements. Users may also get a chance to test the new native HarmonyOS app versions and their changes.

Huawei launches HarmonyOS NEXT public beta program (Image Credits: Huawei/Weibo)

Users can further share their feedback, and suggestions, or report issues using the My Huawei app > Community. It will eventually help in improving the software.

Points to remember

HarmonyOS NEXT public beta activity will push testing builds to devices. Being a new software, the installation may lead to the deletion of your data. Hence, it is better to take a backup beforehand to avoid any data loss.

Also, the company is still adapting some applications to HarmonyOS. It will detect and prompt the apps that are not available in the HarmonyOS NEXT AppGallery. However, if you face abnormal functioning with any app then don’t worry, as it is a normal software behavior.

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DirectorShiGuan says that Huawei might launch HarmonyOS PC in Q3 2025 if nothing goes wrong. Users need to wait till next year to know more info about the software.

The tipster adds that Huawei will likely launch the Kirin PC chips at the same time. It’s unclear which GPU the company will use to complement its laptop processor. Although the company may use a self-developed graphics processing unit.

It seems Huawei is currently focusing on the smartphone section. Products like a 5nm Kirin chip and HarmonyOS NEXT are already in the works. The OEM  is expected to make these creations official in the upcoming months with the Mate 70 series.

Meanwhile, Huawei could dedicate the next year to PCs. The Chairman of the company’s consumer business unit – Yu Chengdong said that the next-gen notebooks will run on HarmonyOS rather than Windows, and that may happen by next year

Huawei HarmonyOS PC rumored to delay till Q3 2025 (Image Credits: DirectorShiGuan/Weibo)

A recent leak stated that HarmonyOS PC may take at least six months more in development. No doubt, the company wants to offer the best experience with the HarmonyOS PC. This requires both effort and time. Hence the delay seems for good.

HarmonyOS PC UI design already appeared on the official Huawei Developer site, implying that it’s ready for launch. There might be some internal changes left that the company would complete in the forthcoming months.

The company hasn’t mentioned any details on the HarmonyOS PC yet. So let’s take the current input with a grain of salt and wait for the official announcement.

HarmonyOS PC: Changes

HarmonyOS PC is expected to support significant GPU upgrades to provide better rendering and quick operations. Just like the phone version, the PC software will also eliminate the Android codes and will follow the native HarmonyOS app ecosystem.

Regarding the UI, the software is said to have a more clean and simple look than iOS. You can check the overall design of the HarmonyOS PC HERE.

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2024 has brought us a lot of expectations from Samsung and One UI 7.0. But it seems this year has just extended the wait for a new software upgrade and not anything else.

During the SDC 2024 event, Samsung announced to release One UI 7.0 (Android 15) next year with the Galaxy S25 series. The exact launch time is unknown. But this will likely happen in January 2025 with a grand Unpacked Galaxy launch event.

That’s not it! Here’s another ‘let-down’ news. Samsung mentioned that the One UI 7.0 developer beta will launch by the end of this year. Again, the closed and public beta might take a wider shape by next year. We may get clear info in late 2024.

Samsung’s software section is expanding at a snail’s speed in 2024 compared to the past years. The company used to launch its major software beta version most probably in August, thereby gradually expanding it with closed and public testings.

The company is well-known for completing its software update rollouts faster than any other brand. But this year, things don’t seem usual. What are the reasons behind this sluggish speed? A focus shift towards hardware products, major improvements in software, or anything else? We can’t say it right now.

If we look at other smartphone makers like OnePlus, these have already given the Android 15-based software beta versions to their flagship devices. Meanwhile, the wait bar for Galaxy users for a new software offering continues to rise.

Samsung disappoints users as One UI 7 launch delays to 2025 (Image Credits: Samsung)

Apart from the One UI 7 announcement, Samsung also mentioned new changes in the upcoming software version. The user experience this time, will be more simple, and impactful, and carry an emotive design to offer a seamless functioning in daily use.

Users will find significant changes in the home screen layout and other UI sections. AI features, an enhanced battery section, and more impressive customizations are also in the One UI 7.0 expected features list. Samsung delays the launch of One UI 7, but this wait could be worthwhile with amazing and useful software enhancements.

[Source]

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