Xiaomi, OPPO, vivo, and OnePlus seeks Google-free Android alternatives

There's a rumor circulating that top Chinese mobile brands are preparing for a standalone OS without reliance to Google.

File photo: Xiaomi 15

Chinese brand's back up plan?

Recent reports suggest that major Chinese smartphone manufacturers, including Xiaomi, OPPO, vivo, and OnePlus, are considering developing a Google-independent version of Android. This move comes amid renewed trade tensions between the U.S. and China, raising concerns that these brands could face restrictions similar to those imposed on HUAWEI in previous years.

During the previous U.S. administration, HUAWEI was barred from accessing Google services, prompting the company to create its own operating system, HarmonyOS Next. It is a standalone OS that doesnt use APKs anymore and is made to rival the like of Google's Android or Apple's iOS though still limited in China.

Now, industry rumors indicate that other Chinese manufacturers may be preparing contingency plans. Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 is speculated to play a role in this transition, though the extent of collaboration between brands—and HUAWEI’s potential involvement—remains uncertain.

HUAWEI has already taken steps to distance itself from Android by removing app compatibility and introducing alternatives like Ark Compiler and Petal Maps. Whether other manufacturers will follow the same path is unclear.

According to recent market data, Xiaomi leads China’s smartphone market, followed by HUAWEI, OPPO, and vivo. Together, these companies accounted for nearly two-thirds of smartphone shipments in China during the first quarter of this year. 

While HUAWEI’s global presence has declined, Xiaomi, OPPO, and vivo remain among the top five smartphone brands worldwide. A shift toward Google-free devices could significantly reshape the global market if these manufacturers proceed with their plans.

What do you guys think?

Source: Xiaomi Time