Honor Boss Zhao Ming Lashes at iPhone Design and Announces a Homegrown OS Plan
The CEO of Honor, Zhao Ming, has publicly criticized Apple’s iPhone design, describing it as poor and signaling a bold strategic move to compete by building an alternative operating system. The remarks were shared through Portal MyDrivers, painting a picture of a company ready to challenge Apple in both hardware and software domains.
In comments attributed to Ming, Honor allocated 10 percent of its revenue to smartphone development in 2022, a figure he framed as evidence of the company’s aggressive R&D stance. He asserted that users have voiced dissatisfaction with Apple devices, highlighting concerns about hardware quality, design choices, connectivity, battery life, and the aesthetic of thick bezels around the display. These claims, while contested by some observers, underscore Honor’s push to position itself as a contender where innovation and user experience matter most.
Despite the criticism of iPhone hardware and design, Ming conceded that the iOS operating system itself is highly capable. He acknowledged that Apple has built a strong software platform that resonates with a broad audience, noting that iOS delivers a polished user experience that many competitors strive to match.
Rather than accepting Apple’s lead, Ming outlined a path for Honor to close the gap. He stated that developing an operating system with capabilities comparable to iOS would enable Honor to accelerate its progress and potentially surpass Apple in certain areas. The plan includes advancing Honor’s own MagicOS, with a version upgrade envisioned as MagicOS 7.0, aimed at delivering a cohesive ecosystem and smooth user experience that could rival iOS in key aspects.
The emphasis, according to Ming, is on creating a seamless and intuitive experience that resonates with users who want choice and competitive alternatives in the smartphone market. By focusing on software independence and a robust ecosystem, Honor aims to differentiate itself beyond hardware specifications alone. The strategic direction signals a broader industry trend where device makers seek greater control over software and services to deliver added value to consumers.
Context for these statements points to a larger movement in the global smartphone landscape, where manufacturers are reassessing the balance between hardware excellence and software freedom. In this environment, Honor’s approach reflects a willingness to invest heavily in R&D and to pursue ambitious software goals that could reshape consumer expectations and supply chain dynamics in North America and beyond.
Notes from industry observers emphasize that any transition to a new OS would require extensive developer support, app compatibility, and robust security measures to gain consumer trust. Still, the underlying narrative remains: a major device maker is positioning itself as a legitimate alternative through a combination of strong hardware ambitions and a distinctive software roadmap, backed by significant investment. The conversation around Honor’s strategy continues to unfold across markets and will be watched closely by analysts and enthusiasts alike, as the company navigates the challenges and opportunities of competing with a longtime software and hardware ecosystem leader.