For those accustomed to the vast Android app ecosystem, the question of running those apps on Huawei’s HarmonyOS is a natural one. However, the answer is complex and changing, particularly with the arrival of HarmonyOS NEXT. This post breaks down the current situation.
The Past: Android Compatibility (To Varying Degrees)
Older versions of HarmonyOS (before “NEXT”) had some level of compatibility with Android apps. This was possible because HarmonyOS was initially based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). While it wasn’t a perfect 1:1 compatibility, some Android apps could be run, sometimes even by directly installing APK files.
The Present and Future: HarmonyOS NEXT – Moving Away from Android
The game changer is “HarmonyOS NEXT.” Huawei is making a fundamental shift. HarmonyOS NEXT is designed to be incompatible with Android apps. This is a crucial point. Huawei’s strategy focuses on building a fully native HarmonyOS ecosystem. They want developers to create apps specifically for HarmonyOS, not relying on Android compatibility layers.
Methods for Running Android Apps (If Possible – Depends on the Version):
- EasyAbroad/DroidTong: Some online sources mention “EasyAbroad” or “DroidTong.” These appear to be temporary compatibility solutions or layers. They might allow some Android apps to function, but with potential limitations (e.g., issues with notifications, needing to import files). These are not guaranteed solutions, especially on newer HarmonyOS versions.
- APK Installation: Manually installing APK files might have worked on older HarmonyOS versions. This is becoming increasingly irrelevant and unreliable for HarmonyOS NEXT.
- Emulators/Containers: Running Android within an emulator or container on HarmonyOS is a technical possibility. However, this is not a native compatibility feature and is not the direction Huawei is taking.
- Cloud Phone: “Cloud phone” might allow remote access to an Android instance, not running apps directly on HarmonyOS.
HarmonyOS Watches and Other Devices:
- HarmonyOS-based smartwatches generally do not run Android apps. They have their own app ecosystems.
- Huawei’s AppGallery is the primary source for watch apps, offering categories like:
- Navigation
- Music
- Calendar
- Health & Fitness
The Key Takeaway:
The trend is clear: HarmonyOS, particularly HarmonyOS NEXT, is moving towards a completely native ecosystem. Huawei wants developers to build apps for HarmonyOS. While workarounds may exist for some Android apps on older versions, these are not the focus.
