Huawei has introduced two new laptops powered by its self-developed HarmonyOS, marking a major move in its ongoing effort to challenge dominant Western tech companies. The launch comes at a time when the Chinese tech giant continues to face restrictions from the United States over access to advanced chip technology.
The new devices — MateBook Fold and MateBook Pro — are the first laptops to feature HarmonyOS 5, an operating system Huawei started building in 2015. While HarmonyOS had already been integrated into its smartphones, this is the first time it has been used on Huawei’s laptop lineup.
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Speaking during the launch event, Huawei’s consumer business chief, Yu Chengdong, said the new Harmony laptops represent an alternative for users globally and reflect the company’s determination to pursue innovation despite hurdles.
The MateBook Fold, which features an 18-inch OLED screen and no physical keyboard, is priced at 23,999 yuan (around $3,328). The MateBook Pro, a more conventional laptop with a keyboard, starts at 7,999 yuan.
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Huawei did not specify the type of chip used in these devices but mentioned that higher manufacturing costs contributed to their pricing. The absence of U.S. chip suppliers comes after Washington tightened export controls, impacting Huawei’s supply chain.
Currently, HarmonyOS supports over 150 applications, with millions of developers working on the platform. By late 2024, Huawei expects the system to be integrated into over a billion devices, ranging from phones to televisions.
