China releases OpenKylin, its open source operating system

Devesh Beri

According to state media, as reported by Reuters, China has unveiled its inaugural domestically developed open-source desktop operating system called OpenKylin. This release demonstrates China’s intensified efforts to reduce dependence on technology from the United States.

Meanwhile, if you’re a Windows fan, you might not want to miss out on the rumors and expectations from Windows 12.

OpenKylin, which was launched on Wednesday, is based on the existing open-source Linux operating system. It was constructed by a community consisting of approximately 4,000 developers and finds application in various sectors, including the country’s space program, finance, and energy industries. It derives its foundation from the long-term-supported Linux Kernel 6.1, drawing inspiration from the legendary Chinese mythological creature known as the ‘Qilin.’

China’s operating system market is substantial, with a value of 15.5 billion yuan ($2.1 billion) last year, as reported by state media citing an industry study. The tech industry in China has pursued the objective of creating an independent operating system, free from reliance on U.S. technology, in recent years. Numerous companies and organizations have contributed to the development of the OpenKylin system to accomplish this goal.

Notably, the China Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team, overseen by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, is a significant supporter of this initiative. Over a dozen Chinese companies are currently engaged in the endeavor to develop operating systems capable of replacing Microsoft’s Windows and Apple’s MacOS.