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Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and OnePlus are reportedly exploring the idea of an Android operating system without Google. According to GSMArena, these companies are considering a Google-free version of Android, with Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 potentially laying the groundwork for such a move.
HyperOS is built upon the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) combined with Xiaomi’s proprietary Vela system, allowing the company to operate without Google’s constraints.
This development comes amid renewed trade tensions between the United States and China, leading to concerns among Chinese smartphone manufacturers about potential restrictions similar to those previously imposed on Huawei. In response, these companies are reportedly seeking to reduce their reliance on Google’s ecosystem.
Huawei, which has already developed its own operating system, HarmonyOS, is allegedly involved in this project. However, details about the extent of collaboration among the companies and Huawei’s role remain unclear. Following the U.S. sanctions in 2019, Huawei accelerated the development of its proprietary operating system, implementing across various Huawei devices, including smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
Although rumored at this point, if realized, this move could significantly impact the global smartphone market, as these companies account for a substantial share of smartphone shipments worldwide. The potential shift away from Google’s Android could lead to the development of alternative app stores, mapping services, and voice assistants, reshaping the mobile ecosystem as we know it.
