SHENZHEN - In a bold move that could shake up the tech landscape, Chinese tech titan Huawei has announced the much-anticipated launch of its first series of personal computers (PCs) powered by its innovative HarmonyOS operating system on May 19.

This groundbreaking release represents a significant step in Huawei's ambition to expand its HarmonyOS ecosystem, which has already been established on its smartphones and tablets.

By introducing computers that run China's first homegrown operating system for everyday users, Huawei aims to challenge the entrenched giants of the PC world—Microsoft's Windows and Apple's macOS.

The HarmonyOS-powered computers are the culmination of five years of intensive research and development. Huawei has highlighted the operating system's robust security features, including an integrated security chip for encryption, secure access protocols, and encrypted data sharing.

One of the standout features of these new devices is their ability to facilitate seamless interaction across Huawei's range of products. Users will be able to effortlessly control their phones, tablets, and computers, allowing for a smooth transition between various screens using a keyboard and mouse.

HarmonyOS, known as Hongmeng in China, is an open-source operating system designed not only for PCs but also for a variety of devices and scenarios—encompassing everything from smart screens and wearables to automotive systems. It first made its debut back in August 2019.

However, analysts caution that while Huawei's innovations are commendable, the company will face fierce competition in the initial phase. Both Windows and macOS benefit from a wealth of mature applications that users have come to rely on.

To enhance its appeal, Huawei has revealed that its new HarmonyOS computers will support connectivity with over 1,000 external devices, and are launching with more than 150 dedicated PC applications, alongside over 300 applications that are compatible within its expansive ecosystem.