Huawei’s HarmonyOS 5 Laptops: A Bold Step Towards Tech Independence

On May 19, 2025, Huawei unveiled its first laptops powered by the proprietary HarmonyOS 5, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards technological self-reliance. This move is seen as a strategic response to ongoing U.S. trade restrictions that have limited Huawei’s access to critical technologies.

Introducing the MateBook Fold and MateBook Pro

MateBook Fold: Priced at 23,999 yuan (approximately $3,328), this innovative device features an 18-inch OLED foldable screen and forgoes a physical keyboard, offering a sleek and modern design.

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. Image Credit: Reddit

MateBook Pro: Starting at 7,999 yuan, this model retains a traditional laptop design while integrating the new HarmonyOS 5 for enhanced performance and user experience.

HarmonyOS 5: Expanding Beyond Smartphones

Initially launched for smartphones in 2020, HarmonyOS has rapidly expanded its ecosystem. As of now, it supports over 150 applications and is utilized on more than a billion devices globally. The development of HarmonyOS-based laptops began in 2021, reflecting Huawei’s commitment to building self-sufficient technological capabilities.

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Implications for the Nigerian Market

For Nigerian consumers and tech enthusiasts, Huawei’s latest offerings present an opportunity to explore alternatives to traditional operating systems like Windows and macOS. The introduction of HarmonyOS-powered laptops could diversify the market and provide users with more choices tailored to their preferences and needs.

Final Thoughts

This launch marks a significant step towards lowering continued reliance on foreign technologies and highlighting Huawei’s dedication to innovation. As these devices starts entering the global markets, it may largely influence consumer’s preferences and reshape the competitive landscape in big markets like Nigeria.