Chinese developers: Huawei Ark Compiler for HarmonyOS is not finished

The Ark Compiler that allows developers to turn Android apps into apps for Huawei’s own HarmonyOS is far from finished. So say Chinese developers who have started working with the open source software.

The Ark Compiler can’t compile its own demo, several developers on Zhihu say according to Abacusnews. That’s because the runtime isn’t ready. Partly because of those kinds of elements, it seems that Huawei released the software way before it was ready for use by developers.

Huawei wants to use the Ark Compiler to let developers run their Android apps on HarmonyOS, its own operating system. It is an open source compiler. Developers call the early release a “publicity stunt,” according to Abacusnews.

The Chinese manufacturer has not yet responded to the criticism from developers. Huawei sees HarmonyOS primarily as a backup plan, but not as an alternative to Android. On Thursday, the manufacturer presented its Mate 30 series of phones with the open source version of Android, while its Watch GT2 runs on LiteOS. However, a TV will appear on HarmonyOS.