China has launched its first open-source desktop operating system, called OpenKylin, as part of its efforts to reduce its dependence on US technology. Developed by a community of thousands of developers, special interest groups, and enterprises, OpenKylin is a Linux-based operating system (OS) that grants users the freedom to access and modify the source code.
Unlike proprietary OSes like Microsoft Windows and Apple MacOS, OpenKylin allows users to see how the OS was written and make changes as desired.
OpenKylin is already being utilized in China’s space programs and various industries, such as finance and energy. The OS, which resembles Ubuntu in its initial testing, was built from scratch, combining different open-source software to create a complete operating system. This means it is not controlled by any specific company, like Canonical.
One notable feature of OpenKylin is its desktop environment named UKUI, developed by the community. The OS comes preloaded with essential software, including the WPS office suite, Firefox web browser, and video players. It also includes a software store where users can download native Linux apps as well as Windows and Android apps using emulators.
OpenKylin is compatible with commonly used x86 computers, as well as other hardware architectures such as Arm and RISC-V. By introducing an open-source OS like OpenKylin, China aims to promote domestic technological independence and reduce reliance on foreign software.
“What’s happening to Russian open-source developers gave a warning sign to Chinese developers,” one user wrote on the knowledge-sharing website Zhihu.com. “Software without borders is just a dream that will never come true, and China needs to build its own open-source community.”
Although this is not the first version of the operating system, Zhu Chen, the community’s leader, called it a “milestone.”
“We have already built versions 0.7, 0.75, and 0.9,” Zhu explained to China Media Group.
“This new version signifies that we have gained the ability to lead the OS’ development by ourselves,” Zhu stated. “I hope more users will try our new version and give us feedback.”
OpenKylin, named after the legendary creature Kylin, is part of a series of operating systems (OSes) used in various fields, including finance, energy, and China’s space programs.
It competes with Deepin, another OS developed by a Wuhan-based company aiming to create an independent open-source community.
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