HyperOS iOS-style recent apps beta program officially opens

Xiaomi has embarked on internal tests for a revamped iOS-like Recent Apps menu in HyperOS 3.1. This marks a major shift in the UI history of the system, with tests already underway for users in China as a part of the HyperOS Launcher beta launch process, for which registration has commenced for all users. The recent news comes in line with ideas that took fruition in HyperOS 2, with a close relation to changes that will eventually make way to the global version through the HyperOS Launcher initiative once the beta version is out, with more information to follow through update channels.

Hypers OS 3.1 Recent Apps Testing Program Explanation

The current testing phase is targeted solely at the Recent Apps interface, which sees a new vertically aligned layout in a card design manner, borrowed from iOS. Unlike firmware betas, this particular one comes in a form of a HyperOS Launcher beta, allowing Xiaomi to test interactions and such before delivering a new OS update.

In this phase, “the beta has not yet been released publicly, and is only available to registered beta testers in China.” Xiaomi is likely to optimize gesture recognition, visual memory management, and scaling of app previews before a widespread rollout.

HyperOS 2 Concept to HyperOS 3.1 Reality

Xiaomi originally showed that it was planning to include an iOS-style Recent Apps feature using HyperOS 2, though this was not included in stable versions at that point. With HyperOS 3.1, it appears that they now have the technical capacity to include this interface.

The main objectives for the new “Recent Apps” design are:

“Clearer multitasking views with bigger app cards”
Optimized swipe gestures with smoother animations for high refresh rates
One-hand usage on larger screen devices

In fact, this rollout strategy is in line with Xiaomi’s HyperOS plans that aim to test necessary features even at the level of a launcher prior to integration into the system.

Global Availability and Compatibility Requirements

Although the testing is only available in the Chinese market, the HyperOS Launcher used in the beta has been compatible with the international lineup of HyperOS devices from the very start. This raises the prospect of the iOS-style ‘Recent Apps’ menu being introduced in other parts of the world through the launcher, and not through an Operating System update.