China interested in developing its own OS before the end of 2014

There are reports a Chinese-made desktop operating system could be available as soon as this October, in an attempt to battle against Microsoft, Google and Apple, according to the Chinese media. If released as scheduled, it could help users upgrade desktop PCs within the next two years, with an effort to get more users on Chinese-made mobile software within the next five years.

Washington and Beijing have repeatedly accused one another of snooping, and government officials hope a Chinese-made OS would counter those security threats. The end of Microsoft Windows XP support earlier in the year has given rise to Chinese OS developers, but without a coordinated effort, it seems unrealistic that something for long-term use can be released.

Microsoft, Google and Apple have all had issues trying to promote their products in China - with Windows 8 banned from government PCs, Google controlling too much market share.