Huawei Moves Away from Intel and Windows with New Chip Development
Huawei is accelerating its shift toward self-reliance in the tech industry by developing its own computer chips. As US sanctions continue to limit its access to American hardware and software, Huawei is preparing to replace Intel processors and Microsoft’s Windows operating system in its future personal computers.
Huawei’s Latest Breakthrough
Huawei’s chip design arm, HiSilicon, has developed the Kirin X90, a central processing unit (CPU) that recently received a Level 2 national security certification from the China Information Technology Security Evaluation Centre. This certification, though voluntary, signals Huawei’s readiness to push its self-developed chips into widespread use.
This isn’t Huawei’s first attempt at chip development. The Kirin 9000C and Kirin 9006C, featured in its Qingyun W515x and Qingyun L540 laptops, have also received similar certifications. The Qingyun series primarily targets government and enterprise users, but Huawei is now looking to bring these chips into the consumer market.
Breaking Free from US Technology
Huawei’s move comes after Washington revoked special licenses in May 2024, which had previously allowed companies like Qualcomm and Intel to sell older-generation chips to the Chinese tech giant. Most of Huawei’s laptops have relied on Intel Core processors, except for the Matebook E Go, which used Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chip.
Additionally, Huawei’s license to use Microsoft’s Windows operating system is set to expire this month. The company is now preparing to launch new computers running HarmonyOS, its self-developed operating system. This move would mark a major shift away from American software dependency.
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Future of Huawei’s PC Business
Huawei is aggressively expanding its PC business despite challenges. In 2024, its desktop and notebook shipments grew by 15%, reaching 4.3 million units. This gave Huawei an 11% share of China’s PC market, while Lenovo remained the leader with 35%.
However, growth slowed in the final quarter of the year, with shipments declining 7% due to a lack of new product launches. To regain momentum, Huawei plans to introduce more devices powered by its own chips and operating system in 2025.
Industry Impact and Challenges
Huawei’s transition to domestic chip production is a direct response to US sanctions, but it also reflects China’s broader push for technological independence. The company faces significant hurdles, including:
- Limited supply chains for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
- Software ecosystem challenges, as HarmonyOS needs more app compatibility.
- Consumer adaptation, as users are accustomed to Intel and Windows.
Despite these obstacles, Huawei remains committed to reducing reliance on American technology and strengthening China’s position in the global semiconductor industry.
As the company gears up to launch HarmonyOS-powered PCs, the tech world watches closely. Will Huawei succeed in breaking free from US technology, or will it struggle to compete with established players? The coming months will be crucial in shaping its future.
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