HarmonyOS surpasses iOS in China as growth continues

Efe Udin

March 14, 2025

Source: Black MOB

Huawei’s HarmonyOS has overtaken Apple’s iOS in China, marking a significant milestone for the operating system. According to Counterpoint Research, HarmonyOS secured a 19% market share in Q4 2024, surpassing iOS, which stood at 17%. While Android continues to lead the global smartphone market, this shift in China highlights Huawei’s growing influence in its home country.

HarmonyOS gains momentum in China

HarmonyOS has maintained a stable 4% global market share, positioning itself as the third-largest smartphone OS. However, its impact in China is far greater. Throughout 2024, HarmonyOS consistently outperformed iOS in the Chinese market, securing a higher market share in all four quarters. Counterpoint Research attributes this growth to strong sales momentum from new Huawei smartphone launches and government-backed subsidies aimed at stimulating the economy.

To support local brands, the Chinese government has introduced subsidies of CNY 500 ($70) for smartphones priced under CNY 6,000 (approximately $800). This initiative has boosted sales of Huawei devices running HarmonyOS, contributing to its rise in market share.

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The road to surpassing iOS

HarmonyOS has come a long way since its launch in 2019. Initially developed as an alternative to Android following US trade restrictions on Huawei, the OS was first implemented on smart devices before being fully integrated into Huawei smartphones. Over time, it has evolved into a fully independent ecosystem, attracting both users and developers.

Huawei’s strong hold in China has helped HarmonyOS grow. As the firm gains ground in the phone market, mainly after its Mate 60 line with top chip tech, trust in Huawei phones has risen. This has led to more use of HarmonyOS, letting it beat iOS.

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Future outlook for HarmonyOS

Counterpoint Research says HarmonyOS will keep growing in China. While the global phone OS market stays the same, Huawei’s strong hold at home hints that HarmonyOS could grab more shares. If this keeps up, Huawei may rival Android in China in the near future. Yet, HarmonyOS will still struggle to grow outside China. Huawei’s focus on its home market makes global growth unsure. But with new ideas and strong state backing, HarmonyOS is becoming a key name in China’s phone scene.

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Source/VIA :

Counterpointresearch