Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 adds major UI upgrades but ends support for older hardware

The wait for the next version of the software skin of Xiaomi is almost over, and it seems that there are going to be many changes. Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 seems to be working towards making their software look better by taking inspiration from popular software skins. However, there is a major catch in here that might disappoint some users with older hardware. Going by the latest reports, this update is heavily linked to the underlying OS architecture and will therefore only work in devices running Android 16.

TL;DR

• New Recents Menu: The option for a “Stacked” view of the recents menu, similar to the iOS switcher, has been introduced.
• Dynamic Visuals: The “Super Island” (Dynamic Island-like) notification card introduces new lighting effects and a new settings page.
• Better Folders: Home screen customization is improved with the ability to resize folders via drag and drop (2×1, 1×2).
• Android 16 Exclusive: This particular update version is now focused on devices that are eligible for the soon-to-be-released Android 16 update.

What New Features Are Coming to HyperOS 3.1?

We’ve also been following the progress of Xiaomi’s new software update, and the list of features in version 3.1 is quite lengthy. The first thing that will catch your eye is probably the “Stacked Layout Style” in recent apps. So if you’ve used an iPhone in the past year or so, this design will look very familiar to you. Gone is the traditional two-column grid in favor of a horizontal scroll where the apps stack smoothly one after the other. It is interesting to note that this launcher update is already available for download for those who are willing to take the leap.

The “Super Island” Gets Smarter

The “ Xiaomi is also enhancing the HyperIsland feature and adding a Super Island settings page, which enables users to choose which apps are associated with the animation effect. It’s not just functionality, as visual effects are also being improved. New light effects have been introduced in the media playback progress bar on the island, making it interactive. Moreover, the Super Island logic has been optimized for smoother transitions, which was an issue raised by many users in the past, as animations were stuttering.

Desktop and Lock Screen Customization

For those who are fans of home screen organization, HyperOS 3.1 is a welcome addition in terms of flexibility. You can now fully appreciate Drag-and-drop folder size changing. New folder sizes such as 2×1 and 1×2 have been introduced, and page turning has been added to folders so that users can hide many apps in a small space without compromising accessibility. The Lock Screen gets a fully-fledged photo editing package so that depth effect integration and widget placement become easier.

System-Wide Quality of Life Improvements

In addition to the visual changes, there are a number of “under the hood” tweaks that aim to give the handset the feel of being smarter.

1. Multi-Volume Adjustment: Managing media, ringer, or alarm volume all at once gets a new design.
2. Bluetooth Memory: The system will now remember the connection status of Bluetooth devices more accurately.
3. HyperAI Suggestions: The active suggestions in the app drawer and negative screen are getting the optimization boost. (China only)

Official Roadmap: HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2

The official Xiaomi has announced its recruitment schedule for the HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2 recruitment in two different waves from January 22 to January 30. The company makes it clear in its recruitment notice that these are engineering builds and are not stable and thus not recommended to be used as daily drivers. The initial wave of updates began from January 22, and it focuses on the latest flagship devices.

The devices that will be supported under the initial China wave of updates are the following:

According to Xiaomi, Beta testers cannot immediately upgrade to the Stable build while the beta process is ongoing. First batch users will start receiving OTAs from January 22, while the second batch users will receive the update within 10 days of the start of the rollout process.

When Can You Expect This Update?

As per our sources, the availability of Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 is expected to kick-start in China in the month of February. But it’s only for devices which get Android 16. What this means is that flagship models such as the Xiaomi 17 lineup and other flagships such as Xiaomi 15T Pro, will be the first to get the updates. If you are currently using a device that will not be getting the update to Android 16, the above mentioned updates may not be available to you. However, Xiaomi usually ports some of the features to the older operating system.

Source

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