BMW has partnered with Huawei to develop an in-car digital ecosystem in China based on the technology company's Harmony operating system, which is used by its phones and other smart devices, said the German carmaker on Monday.

"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," said Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China.

Among other things, the BMW Digital Key, developed on HarmonyOS NEXT, will be introduced this year. It allows users to unlock, lock, or start their BMW vehicles seamlessly via Huawei smartphones.

The Huawei HiCar will be first introduced in locally produced BMW Neue Klasse models in 2026. By integrating HarmonyOS into the cockpit, it enables an all-scenario smart ecosystem connectivity for people, vehicles and homes, providing a wider range of in-car applications and intelligent digital experiences for BMW users.

BMW said it is working closely with Chinese tech companies on cutting-edge technologies such as large language models, generative AI and intelligent voice interaction to create smarter, more powerful, and more efficient mobility experiences tailored to the needs of Chinese consumers.

"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," said Green.

BMW is increasingly engaging in long-term collaborations with its suppliers. This approach not only integrates Chinese forces deeply into BMW's global innovation system but also creates a new paradigm of technology sharing and global empowerment, marking the beginning of a new phase in local partnership.