The Mobile Operating System (MOS) industry is dominated by the duopoly of Apple's iOS and Google's Android, with both being American companies. The lack of alternative MOS outside the US raises concerns about technological dependence and geopolitical vulnerability. During the US-China trade war, Huawei was banned and forced to introduce HarmonyOS. However, Chinese MOS is still facing consumer rejection and market share loss today. This paper discusses the industrial background of MOS, highlighting the emergence of Android-based Chinese MOS and the attempts to develop non-Android-based Chinese alternatives. Then, it reviews academic theories on product innovation, with more specific focus on technology adoption. Academic gaps have been pointed out with the lack of studying the theories in MOS industry, as well as the lack of incorporating geopolitical factors like country of origin (COO). This paper underscores the urgency for academic research to explore consumer attitudes towards Chinese MOS and the role of COO in shaping adoption decisions. By integrating geopolitical risk variables into MOS adoption studies, researchers can offer valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders navigating global technological dynamics.
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