Huawei is back in the US' sights

HarmonyOS main interface. Photo: LinuxSir .

According to Nikkei , US lawmakers are concerned about the possibility that the Chinese government could use Huawei's HarmonyOS for espionage. The US side is calling for cooperation from allies and partners to prevent the widespread use of the operating system globally.

“Given the serious national security and geopolitical implications associated with a foreign adversary’s operating system, HarmonyOS deserves careful consideration.

We must work with our allies and partners to prevent the use of this operating system in devices around the world ,” said part of the letter from Republican John Moolenaar and Democrat Raja Krishnamoorthi.

US lawmakers have long accused Huawei of having ties to the Chinese military, posing a security risk to many of its devices. Huawei has denied all allegations.

Huawei first launched HarmonyOS in 2019, during US President Donald Trump's first term. It was seen as an alternative to Android, iOS and Windows.

In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Brendan Carr, Chairman of the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the lawmakers noted that HarmonyOS is not only for smartphones, tablets or computers, but also integrated into cars and smart devices.

Lawmakers say the products could be used for spying if future updates contain hidden “backdoors.”

The letter suggests that the US government should “conduct a comprehensive review of the HarmonyOS architecture and codebase,” and ensure that US allies and partners around the world are aware of this information.

“After a broad assessment of the risks, rather than attempting to force the removal of HarmonyOS from sensitive devices around the world, we should use diplomacy and intelligence sharing to enable the global community to continue using trusted operating systems,” the letter said.

Huawei's tri-fold smartphone. Photo: Bloomberg .

HarmonyOS is Huawei’s response to the US restrictions. The system has been significantly improved over the years. In 2024, Huawei launched a new version of its Pura flagship line called HarmonyOS Next, with an AI assistant capable of human-like emotional interactions.

Huawei is expected to launch its first laptop using HarmonyOS at the end of May. According to Nikkei , US sanctions have prevented the Chinese company from renewing its contract with Microsoft to use Windows.

Notably, Toyota Motor uses HarmonyOS on its bZ7 electric vehicle sold in China. This operating system will support a smart cockpit, which can control windows, air conditioning and seat position via the touch screen.

The US is also keeping an eye on Huawei’s AI sector. Days ago, the US Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security issued new guidance, warning that any use of advanced Chinese chips without a license would violate US export rules and could result in “significant criminal and administrative penalties”.

Source: https://znews.vn/my-muon-cam-harmonyos-cua-huawei-post1553752.html