Huawei officially released HarmonyOS 6 on October 22, 2025, representing a major advancement in AI-powered mobile operating systems with improved cross-platform compatibility and substantial performance gains.

The Chinese tech giant announced that open beta testing begins immediately for over 90 initial device models, while revealing that HarmonyOS 5 has already reached more than 23 million terminal devices. The launch represents what Huawei executives describe as a shift from basic “usability” to genuine “user-friendliness.”

AI Integration and Cross-Platform Connectivity

At the heart of HarmonyOS 6 sits the upgraded Xiaoyi AI assistant, now supporting 16 dialects and capable of handling complex multi-step tasks through natural language commands. Built on the new Harmony Multi-Agent Framework (HMAF), the system includes over 80 AI-enabled applications, featuring Ctrip’s AI Trip Assistant, Damai Intelligent Agent, and Ant Health Manager.

A breakthrough feature enables file sharing between ecosystems with iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices through proximity-based technology that doesn’t consume mobile data. This marks what industry observers are calling the world’s first native cross-platform connection between HarmonyOS and iOS systems.

The AI assistant can now conduct in-depth research, edit images with single commands, and assist visually impaired users while handling complex background tasks based on simple voice instructions. System apps like Gallery, Notes, and File Manager now offer comprehensive “AI-powered” capabilities.

Performance Gains and Security Enhancements

HarmonyOS 6 delivers substantial performance improvements: 15% faster multi-device performance compared to HarmonyOS 5, with battery life extending by 35-51 minutes in laboratory testing. The system achieves 11% faster app launches, 21% quicker page rendering, and 30% speedier content loading.

The new StarShield security architecture provides system-wide protection from the kernel to the app ecosystem, including AI-powered anti-fraud capabilities and family-oriented scam protection. Enhanced privacy features include anti-peeking protection that automatically conceals sensitive content when others look at the screen.

Huawei launched the “Tian Gong Plan,” investing 1 billion yuan to support development of more than 10,000 AI-native applications. Major partners including Tencent, Alibaba, and ByteDance have introduced innovative solutions, with leading apps like WeChat, Taobao, and Douyin already adapted for the platform.