Huawei has officially announced the upgrade plan for its latest HarmonyOS NEXT operating system. While developer beta testing kicks off today for a select few, the broader user base will have to wait until later this year for a taste of the new OS.
Also, the developer beta testing program is currently limited to a select group. Huawei is recruiting developers and 3,000 pioneer users to test HarmonyOS NEXT at first.
The initial rollout prioritizes flagship devices, with the Huawei Mate 60 and Mate X5 series, alongside the MatePad Pro 13.2 tablet, leading the charge. These top-tier models will receive developer beta access starting today, June 21st.
Following the developer beta, a wider beta program will begin in August 2024. This phase will include the aforementioned flagship models alongside the Pura 70 series phones, the Pocket 2 foldable phone, FreeBuds Pro 3 earbuds, and the 2024 refresh of the MatePad Pro 11 tablet.
However, the stable version of HarmonyOS NEXT won’t hit these flagship devices until Q4 of 2024. At that time, the aforementioned devices are expected to receive the final, polished version of the operating system.
For users of mid-range devices like the Nova series and budget tablets like the MatePad 11, the wait stretches even further. These models are slated for the beta program only in Q4, with the possibility of a stable rollout sometime in 2025.
Details on the upgrade path for even older devices remain unclear, with Huawei simply stating “Stay tuned” for further announcements. Below is the list of Huawei devices that will receive the HarmonyOS NEXT update:
| Release Window | Products |
|---|---|
| Developer Beta Testing (June 21) | Huawei Mate 60 Series, Huawei Mate X5 Series, Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 tablet |
| August 2024 (Beta) | Huawei Mate 60 series, Huawei Mate X5 series, Huawei Pura 70 series, Huawei Pocket 2 series, Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3, Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2, Huawei MatePad Pro 11 2024 |
| Q4 2024 (Stable) | Huawei Mate 60 series, Huawei Mate X5 series, Huawei Pura 70 series, Huawei Pocket 2 series, Huawei FreeBuds Pro 3, Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2, Huawei MatePad Pro 11 2024 |
| Q4 2024 (Beta) | Huawei Nova 12 series, Huawei MatePad 11.5-inch S series, Huawei Watch Ultimate, Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Edition, Huawei Watch GT 4 series, Huawei FreeClip, Huawei Smart Glasses 2 |
Participation Details
Developers and pioneer users have the opportunity to sign up for the current beta program between June 21st and 28th. After reviewing applications, Huawei will select participants based on their needs and the type of build they require. Developers with existing apps on the AppGallery will be given priority, according to Huawei.
Those chosen for the beta program are advised to back up their data before installing the software to prevent any potential loss. Additionally, those who find the beta experience overwhelming will be able to revert to their current OS through the settings menu.
