HarmonyOS Surpasses iOS in China
Huawei's HarmonyOS has achieved a significant milestone, overtaking Apple's iOS in the Chinese smartphone market. According to Counterpoint Research, HarmonyOS captured 19% of the market share in Q4 2024, surpassing iOS's 17%.
Growth Driven by New Launches and Government Subsidies
HarmonyOS benefited from robust sales of new Huawei smartphones and government subsidies designed to boost the economy. These subsidies, amounting to CNY 500 (approximately $70) for smartphones priced under CNY 6,000 (around $800), have fueled the sales of Huawei devices running HarmonyOS. This growth aligns with the success of devices like the iPhone 17.
From Alternative to Independent Ecosystem
Initially developed as an alternative to Android after US trade restrictions, HarmonyOS has evolved into a fully independent ecosystem. Its growth has been further propelled by Huawei's strong presence in China, particularly after the successful launch of the Mate 60 line, which restored consumer trust. For more on market trends, see Apple Intelligence and Siri's Impact on iPhone Sales.
Future Outlook and Global Challenges
Counterpoint Research predicts continued growth for HarmonyOS in China. While the global OS market remains largely unchanged, Huawei's dominance in its home market suggests potential for further gains. However, global expansion remains a challenge, with Huawei primarily focused on the Chinese market. This contrasts with the global availability of devices like the Pixel 9a.