BMW AG announced it has strengthened its partnership with Chinese technology technology giant Huawei Technologies Company by agreeing to develop an on-board digital platform based on Huawei’s Harmony operating system (HarmonyOS). The company confirmed it plans to integrate Huawei’s HiCar mobile app in its locally produced next generation models from 2026.
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The German automaker also revealed that later this year it plans to introduce the BMW Digital Key, based on the HarmonyOS NEXT system, which allows users to unlock/lock and start their vehicles using their Huawei smartphones.
Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China, said in a statement: “In China, nearly a quarter of MyBMW app users rely on Huawei devices. By deeply integrating with the HarmonyOS ecosystem, BMW will enhance in-car applications and digital connectivity services for HarmonyOS users, elevating intelligent experiences in high-frequency use scenarios”
The automaker confirmed it is working closely with Chinese tech companies to develop smart connected technologies including large language models, generative AI and intelligent voice interaction to offer more powerful and efficient mobility experiences tailored to the needs of Chinese consumers.
Sean Green pointed out: “China has emerged as a global engine of innovation. Through collaboration with leading local technology partners in joint R&D and co-creation, BMW is leveraging its system integration expertise to fuse cutting-edge technologies and advance local partnerships into a transformative 2.0 phase.”
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