For the initial batch of devices, Honor will start distributing new lock screen widgets today. The company has formally declared that a new version of the MagicOS smartphones would have intriguing additions and modifications in the near future.
The business will release new lock screen widgets for Honor devices running MagicOS 10.0.0.150, according to official information. The MagicOS 10.0.0126 build version will provide customers of Magic V6 foldables with the most recent improvements.
According to the business, the new lock screen widgets will be installed on the initial batch of devices on April 1st. Later on, the new modifications will be applied to the other devices.
“First of all, thank you for your continued attention to the lock screen widgets. This feature will be supported in MagicOS version 10.0.0.150 in April and will be rolled out to everyone gradually. We will answer your questions in advance.”
Additional information indicates that more than 20 lock screen widgets will be supported by the initial batch of smartphones. Real-time weather, air quality, UV index, timetable, alarm clock, YOYO (a fitness app), battery level, WeChat, and Alipay capabilities are all included in the list.
Users can try upgrading the relevant app, such as the clock, weather, and others, if a widget is absent from the settings or widget panel. Additionally, the lower left corner of the screen displays the step count statistics and other health-related information.
According to Honor, the official software team moved the lock screen step count to a unique step count widget and improved the overall visual appeal.
The business also stated that it will keep considering user input and offer more crucial widgets in the future. Currently, Honor Music, Notes, Calculator, Voice Recorder, Timer, and Stopwatch are among the widgets being developed. Third-party widgets might soon be added to the lock screen as well.
With HyperOS 4, Xiaomi intends to make significant changes. The old MIUI code is entirely removed by the business. The system becomes more stable and quicker as a result. In August 2026, HyperOS 4 will be available. It turns into the initial “Zero-Legacy” version.
In HyperOS 3.1, Xiaomi begins to clear up outdated code. The MIUI SDK is eliminated from the Weather and Gallery applications. All legacy code from MIUI 1 to HyperOS 3 is removed. The system eliminates outdated dependencies and sluggish function calls. A new operating system is produced as a result. It decreases bugs and increases speed.
Key changes:
Removes MIUI backward compatibility layer
Uses only HyperOS SDK in all modules
Deletes over 10 years of old code
Makes updates faster and more stable
HyperOS 4 brings high-performance apps with Flutter and Rust
Xiaomi uses Rust and Flutter to rework key apps. The Weather app on HyperOS 3.1 checks this. These tools are extensively utilized in HyperOS 4. UI is made fluid via Flutter. Rust improves safety and speed. Versions of new apps are not available to older HyperOS users. This eliminates older phones’ backward compatibility.
Key features:
Flutter for standard UI rendering
Rust for secure and fast core code
Modular apps that update independently
Better stability on all devices
Small improvements are made to flagship phones. Large speed increases are seen in low-cost phones. Xiaomi resolves outdated code issues. The most stable experience in Xiaomi history is what it promises.
Google has finally released Android 17 for Pixel phones, following a brief tease yesterday afternoon. This morning, Google said that Android 17 Beta 1 will be available to developers without a Pixel as pictures in Android Studio and as an over-the-air upgrade in the Android Beta Program.
You might be wondering why we aren’t receiving a Developer Preview build first or why this seems so early. We no longer receive developer preview builds, therefore it’s different. You may obtain these new beta builds earlier than ever before since Google is using the Android Canary track, which was released last year, as a developer preview moving forward.
Regarding scheduling, Google declared that Android releases would alter toward the end of 2024. Google shifted to a two-release Android strategy for 2025, with the primary and largest Android 16 release stabilizing by the middle of the year and a secondary release occurring before the year’s conclusion. Android 17 will follow the same timetable. A Platform Stability release is scheduled for sometime in March, although the first release has already begun and will stabilize rather fast. Similar to what happened with Android 16 last year, a small SDK update is scheduled for Q4 of this year.
We will explore all of the exciting new features that Android 17 offers on your own device in a separate post that will be published soon. However, as of right now, Google has simply disclosed the modifications that developers should be aware of. There are various performance enhancements (such as new garbage collection and notification constraints), more professional-grade camera capabilities and media experiences, a redesigned print dialog for improved usability, and restrictions on screen resizability so that apps can run on all devices.
You may receive Android 17 on your Pixel device immediately by signing up for the Android Beta Program. System images are also available to developers (here).
Xiaomi has begun releasing the latest testing release for these 12 models after launching a new HyperOS 3.1 Beta Program for the second batch of its smartphones. To improve the user experience, the most recent version includes a few improvements.
The latest beta, which includes features like Live Updates and Stacked Recent Apps Menu, has already been sent to the first batch of smartphones by the Chinese tech giant.
The HyperOS 3.1 beta upgrade is now being extended for 12 additional Xiaomi devices by the company. It will take some time for the version to reach every unit because it is arriving in groups.
As the OEM has begun distributing the latest testing release to more devices, HyperOS 3.1 beta is becoming more stable. This implies that Xiaomi will soon start rolling out the HyperOS 3.1 beta update to phones and tablets from earlier generations.
The 12 devices that are getting the new beta build are mentioned below. With the testing version listed next to it, you can determine the update for your device.
HyperOS 3.1 beta available for the following devices
Xiaomi 15: HyperOS 3.0.300.5 Beta
Xiaomi 15 Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.4 Beta
Xiaomi 15S Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.5 Beta
Xiaomi 15 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.4 Beta
Xiaomi 14: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Xiaomi 14 Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.4 Beta
Xiaomi 14 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Redmi K80: HyperOS 3.0.3003 Beta
Redmi K80 Pro: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Redmi K80 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.3 Beta
Xiaomi MIX Flip 2: HyperOS 3.0.300.6 Beta
Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra: HyperOS 3.0.300.2 Beta
Before starting the installation, make sure your phone or tablet has enough storage space. Since it’s a beta version, the data on your device might be erased. Therefore, make a backup in advance.
OnePlus released its Wear OS 5 update to certain OnePlus Watch 2 and 2R customers on December 29, slipping past its self-imposed end-of-year deadline, much like a college student faxing their assignment to the professor at 11:59 p.m. This last-minute update has caused issues ever since, as you could anticipate.
Wear OS 5 was originally scheduled to be released between July and September 2025 for the OnePlus Watch 2 and Watch 2R, which were both released in 2024 running Wear OS 4. The company merely stated that the upgrade would arrive “in the near future” after Android Authority inquired about the delay in October.
Some owners of OnePlus Watches have now received the update, but not all of them; my OnePlus Watch 2R, which is located in the United States, still displays the May 2025 security update and Wear OS 4. But considering the impact of the update, this could be a blessing in disguise.
The upgrade is seriously depleting the battery, according to this Reddit thread and other OnePlus forum postings. Before the upgrade, the Watch 2 and 2R often lasted three days in smart mode; however, some customers claim that even after attempting factory resets and other solutions, it won’t last a full day.One user states, “I’m completely heartbroken and frustrated with the severe battery drain issue impacting my OnePlus Watch 2 with the Wear OS 5 update.” “On light usage, my OnePlus Watch 2 now drops from full battery at 1:00 PM to a crucial 10% by 11:00 PM.”
Another customer comments, “I used to get 2.5 days easily with most settings on (at least 2 days)… Now I hardly get 1 day.” In response, someone said that while his drain wasn’t quite as bad, it was now “a strict 2 days” instead of the previous 3–4 days.
Many customers identify particular apps—such as the Weather app, Play Store, or “Wear OS” itself—as the source of the drain, but the diversity indicates that this is a system-wide problem rather than a single app.
The fact that stock Wear OS 5 is (A) a very modest upgrade with few notable changes and (B) meant to make Wear OS work more efficiently, as it did on Pixel and Galaxy Watches, is what makes this update particularly annoying to users. This unoptimized upgrade for last-generation phones is frustrating because the OnePlus Watch 3 has been running this version since April without any problems.
Any company can release a flawed update, but I would have expected OnePlus to either pull it back or provide an update schedule after two weeks. Instead, based from what we’ve seen, OnePlus hasn’t made any formal announcements. A few days ago, my colleague contacted OnePlus on the update, but we haven’t heard anything yet.
This upgrade greatly worries me because I have suggested the OnePlus Watch 2R as my top choice for an inexpensive Android smartwatch, mostly due to its long battery life. OnePlus must demonstrate that it will appropriately support these watches and that its pledge of two Wear OS updates and three years of security updates is more than just platitudes.
As it stands, the new OnePlus Watch Lite used a proprietary RTOS similar to the previous OnePlus Watch, completely eschewing Wear OS.
On January 22, 2026, Xiaomi launched the HyperOS 3.1 beta, which included minor but significant UI and privacy improvements. Phones become smoother and speedier as a result. Additionally, the HyperOS 3.1 update uses AI to extend battery life.
With improved app switching and adjustable settings, it improves the user interface. Additionally, it offers improved multitasking, smoother animations, and increased privacy and security.
A more reliable, refined, and connected experience is provided by HyperOS 3.1. It also offers support for iOS calls and security updates for Android 16. Let’s examine the characteristics of HyperOS 3.1 in more detail below:
Quick look at Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 features coming to your device
Category
Feature
Explanation
iOS Integration
AirPods Native Pop-Up
Let users hide unlock pattern traces
iOS Integration
Spatial Audio Support
Enables 360-degree immersive audio on Xiaomi phones
iOS Integration
ANC & Transparency Control
Manage noise cancellation and sound modes easily
iOS Integration
Find My AirPods
Locate lost AirPods without needing an Apple ID
UI & Animations
New System Animations
Smoother, more fluid transitions across the system
UI & Animations
iOS-Style Recent Apps
Card-like multitasking view inspired by iOS
Apps Overhaul
New Gallery & Weather Apps
Faster apps with rewritten code for better performance
Accessibility
New “Assistance” Menu
Easier access to vision, hearing, and control tools
Accessibility
Active Visual Perception
Helps users better understand on-screen content
Motion & Comfort
Motion Sickness Feature
Reduces visual motion to prevent dizziness
Super Island
Live Update Support
Real-time updates from apps like Uber and Spotify
Super Island
Todo Notes & QR Access
View tasks, QR codes, and maps directly on Island
Lock Screen
Card Swipe Support
Swipe payment and transit cards on lock screen
Media
Music Progress Bar
iOS-style glowing progress bar on media player
Ecosystem
Xiaomi + iPhone Call Support
Answer Xiaomi calls directly on an iPhone
System Core
Biometric Redesign
Improved fingerprint and unlock settings
System Core
Quick Gestures
Faster gesture shortcuts on select premium phones
Security
New Password App
Stores passwords, Wi-Fi logins, and passkeys
Security
Password Breach Alerts
Warns if your passwords are compromised
Privacy
Shake Permission Update
Limits app access to camera, mic, or location
Privacy
Hidden Pattern Trail
Lets users hide unlock pattern traces
Performance
Faster & Smoother System
Improved speed and stability
Battery
AI Battery Optimization
Smarter power saving using AI
Android Core
Android 16 Security Patches
Latest system-level security improvements
iOS integration
You may have overlooked many Apple-only features if you have Apple AirPods and a Xiaomi phone. The AirPods’ battery level was visible before the introduction of Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1. Similar to Apple AirPods, Xiaomi phones have developed as a local brother that will never be alone.
Important improvements like Apple-like native Pop Up support are included in the latest version of HyperOS 3.1. A brief card with details about the battery and connectivity now appears on your screen when you open the AirPod
Spatial Auido, one of Apple’s most exclusive features, is now accessible. Users of Xiaoimi can now enjoy native 360-degree immersive audio. Additionally, the HyperOS club allows you to control the connection time, ANC, and Transparency mode.
Additionally, instead of displaying the standard Bluetooth icon, it only displays the appropriate AirPods model icon. Notably, Xiaomi’s “Find My” Integration allows you to locate your misplaced AirPods using Xiaomi Online Search without even requirin
New UI animations
Xiaomi rewrites Gallery and Weather and changes its animations. To enhance system performance, all outdated code has been eliminated. The new APK files will crash when installed on older HyperOS 3 devices as a result of this modification.
Additionally, the company imitated the latest iOS 26 app animation. Switching between programs feels more contemporary because to the new style, which resembles the iOS cards.
Improvements have been made to the white bar at the bottom of the screen that indicates when you are in full-screen mode. It now responds better to touch and moves more fluidly.
HyperOS 3.1 now has a new Motion Sickness function from Xiaomi. Motion sickness-causing visual motion cues are lessened by this featur
Improved Super Island
Although Super Island now uses the native Android 16 “Live update” API, it was completely inspired by iOS Dynamic Island. Thus, Xiaomi-specific code will no longer be required for international apps such as Uber, Spotify, or other food delivery services to display real-time information on Super Island
Following this upgrade, Xiaomi added a Todo Notes feature. You no longer need to open the app landing page in order to view a variety of notifications, QR codes, and map instructions in Island. Additionally, a function known as Lock Screen Card Swipe is added. This makes it simple to swipe through your cards, including transit and payment cards, directly on the lock screen. You won’t have to visit a different wallet website.
The new Music Progress Bar, which was completely lifted from iOS, is one of my favorites. The media player on the island now has a glowing progress bar thanks to a straightforward yet lovely modification.
System Core enhancements
The “Assistance” Menu functionality was implemented in HyperOS 3.1 (Accessibility Settings Change). This indicates that Xiaomi renamed and relocated the accessibility options to a new main menu called “Assistance.” Those who require simpler phone controls or who have vision or hearing issues can benefit from these options.
Features, for instance, relocated there. Active Visual Perception improves the clarity of what users see or comprehend on the screen. Screen readers, text size control, and tools for hearing and vision assistance.
Additionally, the new biometric area offers a more contemplative experience. Additionally, Xiaomi included Quick Gestures control, which is only available on more recent high-end models like the Poco F8 Ultra and Redmi K90 Pro Max.
As I have stated, deep ecosystems are greatly impacted by Apple AirPod integration. Additionally, the most crucial brick is iPhone Cross-Compatibility (Xiaomi + iPhone). You can now answer and receive calls from your Xiaomi phone directly on your iPhone if you have both an iPhone and a Xiaomi phone. To put it simply:
When your Xiaomi phone calls, you may answer it on your iPhone. Thus, you don’t always need to touch your Xiaomi phone. Since Apple and Xiaomi often don’t collaborate closely, this function is unique in that it links two competing ecosystems.
Many security improvements
The Passwprd App, similar to iOS, is now one of the key features of HyperOS 3.1. Similar to Apple, this new tool helps you manage your Wi-Fi passwords, passkeys, and app logins.
It can detect and alert you if your passwords have been stolen. Additionally, it allows you to manage all of your passwords in one location by combining them from several online browsers. Additionally, it offers a simple method for your passwords to be automatically filled in throughout the system.
The way you can use patterns and fingerprints has changed in the latest release. The pattern trace can now be concealed once more. Additionally, it is now simpler to select your security options because the fingerprint unlock is independent of the private password settings.
Shake Permission Update is a new function that allows you to modify your privacy. This enables you to restrict access to your location and camera, for example, only when your screen is on. Additionally, you have the option to restrict these permissions to eight seconds following the opening of an application. By doing this, you can stop apps from following you when you’re not
Overall, HyperOS 3.1’s improvements prioritize polish over a significant redesign, enhancing ecosystem connectivity, privacy, battery efficiency, and smoothness. This beta seems more polished, reliable, and prepared for the future than earlier HyperOS iterations thanks to Apple-inspired features and Android 16 security improvements.
The latest version of Xiaomi’s HyperOS is almost here, and it looks like there will be a lot of changes. Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 appears to be attempting to improve the appearance of their software by drawing inspiration from well-known skins. There is a significant hitch, though, that could let some users with outdated specs down. According to the most recent reports, this upgrade will only come on Android 16 devices because it is closely related to the underlying OS design.
What are the new features that are coming to HyperOS 3.1?
We have also been monitoring the development of Xiaomi’s latest software update, and version 3.1 has a long list of features. The “Stacked Layout Style” in more modern apps is likely to be the first thing you notice. You will therefore recognize this design if you have used an iPhone within the last year or so. A horizontal scroll where the apps stack seamlessly one after the other has replaced the conventional two-column grid. It’s noteworthy to note that individuals who are prepared to take the risk can already download this launcher upgrade.
Improved “Super Island”
Additionally, Xiaomi is creating a Super Island settings page that lets users select which apps are linked to the animation effect and improving the HyperIsland feature. Not only is functionality being enhanced, but visual effects are as well. The media playing progress indicator on the island is now interactive thanks to new light effects. Additionally, the Super Island logic has been improved for smoother transitions. This was a problem that many users had previously brought up because animations were stuttering.
More customizations
In terms of versatility, HyperOS 3.1 is a great choice for home screen organizers. Drag-and-drop folder size changes are now properly regarded. To enable users to conceal numerous apps in a tiny area without sacrificing accessibility, new folder sizes including 2×1 and 1×2 have been included, along with page turning. A complete photo editing suite is added to the Lock Screen to facilitate the placement of widgets and the incorporation of depth effects.
System-wide improvements
There are other “under the hood” adjustments in addition to the aesthetic modifications that are intended to make the phone appear smarter.
Multi-Volume Adjustment: Managing media, ringer, or alarm volume all at once gets a new design.
Bluetooth Memory: The system will now remember the connection status of Bluetooth devices more accurately.
HyperAI Suggestions: The active suggestions in the app drawer and negative screen are getting the optimization boost. (China only)
Roadmap
The HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2 recruitment will take place in two waves from January 22 to January 30, according to the official Xiaomi announcement. In its job ad, the business makes it clear that these are engineering builds that are not stable and should not be used as everyday drivers. The first round of updates, which concentrated on the newest flagship devices, started on January 22.
The following gadgets will be compatible with the first wave of upgrades for China:
While the testing process is underway, Xiaomi claims that beta testers are unable to upgrade to the stable build right away. Users in the first batch will begin receiving OTAs on January 22; users in the second batch will receive the update ten days after the distribution process begins.
When the update is expected?
According to our sources, Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 is anticipated to become available in China in February. However, it is limited to Android 16-capable smartphones. This implies that the Xiaomi 17 series and other flagship devices, like the Xiaomi 15T Pro, will receive the updates first. The aforementioned upgrades might not be accessible to you if you are currently using a device that won’t be receiving the Android 16 update. Xiaomi typically transfers some of the functions to the outdated operating system, though.
The HyperOS 3 upgrade for a new range of devices has started to be released by Xiaomi. This build of HyperOS 3 is unique. Its foundation is Android 15, which just started to be released for the Redmi K60 and Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro series. It is now being extended to further devices, such as the Xiaomi 12 series, Xiaomi 12S series, and others.
Currently, only China has access to the HyperOS 3 build, which is based on Android 15. According to Xiaomi Time, the most recent Xiaomi devices receiving this update are listed below, along with the firmware versions:
For these devices, the HyperOS 3 update is now accessible as a Mi Plot release, which is essentially a beta release. You must register to be a beta tester in order to receive this update (click here for all the processes). After Xiaomi confirms that the build is free of serious defects, the update will shortly be made available to non-beta customers.
The HyperOS 3 update, which is based on Android 15, has not yet been verified to be released worldwide by Xiaomi. Nonetheless, the inclusion of international versions like the Xiaomi 12, Xiaomi 12 Pro, and Xiaomi Civi 3 on the aforementioned list is encouraging. Usually, the company releases the update in China first, and after a few weeks, it spreads to the rest of the world.
We’ll continue to update our Xiaomi area with the most recent HyperOS updates. For the most recent information, don’t forget to frequently check this section. As an alternative, you may sign up for our Telegram channel to receive real-time notifications about new product releases, software updates, and the greatest tech news.
Android 16 QPR2 has made Google’s Pixel smartphones safer and smarter. Discover why you should get this update immediately, including new lock screen widgets, AI-powered notifications, and an essential security fix.
Google is finally releasing Android 16 QPR2 to compatible Pixel devices after much testing. Based on the most recent version of Android, this is the second quarterly release. It offers well-considered features and modifications, much like the initial release. More significantly, it contains the security update from December, which fixes a number of worrisome vulnerabilities.
The Pixel 10, Pixel 9, Pixel 8, Pixel 7, Pixel 6, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold are all compatible with Android 16 QPR2. On my Pixel 9 Pro XL, the update is roughly 800 MB+ in size.
Improved screen customizations
Google is still improving Android 16 QPR2’s user interface. Users may now add new shape options for app icons on the home screen, such as circle, squircle, four-sided cookie, seven-sided cookie, and arch.
Additionally, users of Pixel phones now add widgets to the lock screen—a function that was previously exclusive to tablets. Although there are fewer widgets and layouts than on the home screen, you can still access them by swiping left on the lock screen.
A new low-light setting for the screen saver, which turns on a dim clock in dull scenes to conserve battery life, is one of the other lock screen modifications. Furthermore, fingerprint scanning can now operate on a switched-off display without requiring the screen to be woken.
We highlighted in the beta the ability to minimize or eliminate blur effects in background components like the quick settings and alerts panel. All users can now utilize this functionality. For better accessibility, blur can be disabled under the Color and Motion area and replaced with plain color.
Expanded dark mode, which compels apps that don’t support dark themes to switch to dark mode, is another accessibility improvement. Better yet, you can program expanded dark mode to activate on its own.
Additionally, Android 16 QPR2 has an upgraded HDR feature that allows you to change the HDR intensity. You can select brightness levels from dimmer to more vibrant using a slider.
More usability and productivity
In addition to 50:50, 70:30, and 30:70 ratios, the update offers a more adaptable split-screen arrangement that supports ratios like 90:10.
Additionally, Google is adding two new features to its AI-powered notifications: a notification organizer and notification summary. While the organizer automatically organizes alerts in the panel, summaries condense lengthy messages from apps. The apps that are included can be customized by users. The Pixel 9 and more recent variants with Gemini Nano support these functionalities.
Additionally, parental controls have been reinforced. More apps now allow parents to set secure PINs, set screen-time limits, plan downtime, and control timers right from the settings.
Additional accessibility-related features include Expressive Captions, which are real-time captions in social media apps and video communications that are enhanced with emoticons and ambient sound overlays. Google has improved Circle to Search to allow users to flag and report problematic messages in order to fight spam and scams. Additionally, the new Call Reason function will alert suspected spam calls or classify calls according to urgency.
New security patch
The December security patch for Android 16 QPR2 addresses a number of issues. The update fixes vulnerabilities ranging from high to critical severity, some of which have already been exploited by attackers, according to Google’s security alert.
In addition to the eye-catching new features, Pixel owners should apply this update right now to lower the chance of attacks and keep safe from threats.
Other companies, including as Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus, will also implement the December security patch, though the exact release date may differ.
HyperOS 3 is rumored to be under active development for Xiaomi 14 Ultra smartphones. Test servers have now marked the update as ready for release, indicating that it has reached the final stage, according to recent reports.
The upgrade has already begun to arrive on Chinese Xiaomi 14 Ultra devices, and sources say the worldwide version is also ready for release. This Android 16-based upgrade is scheduled to begin spreading out before November ends.
On internal servers, Xiaomitime found HyperOS 3 marked as distribution-ready. The worldwide build has the version OS3.0.3.0.WNAMIXM, tied to the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s codename “Aurora,” with the status expressly described as “ready for stable rollout.” For comparison, the upcoming global build uses OS3.0.3.0.WNAMIXM, while the Chinese version debuted with OS3.0.4.0.WNACNXM.
HyperOS 3 update for Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Key Features
HyperOS 3 is supposed to feature a new UI with smoother animations and visual upgrades. The update focuses on minimizing stuttering and correcting battery-drain problems, while also delivering the latest security fixes and a powerful set of AI-powered capabilities.
Instant access to real-time information and alerts is made possible by Xiaomi Super Island’s stronger integration with multimedia apps and system features. Revamped media management and creativity capabilities include a new dedicated pet album that automatically finds and arranges pet photographs and a revised watermark system and advanced editing suite.
The option to drag music straight to share, facial recognition support for app-lock notifications, improved connectivity with Xiaomi Music and NetEase Cloud, and NFC card swipe notifications within Super Island are some further new features.
