By vmg@gmail.com 
The wait for Xiaomi’s next major software update is nearly over, and HyperOS 3.1 is shaping up to be one of the most visually transformative updates yet. Xiaomi appears to be taking heavy inspiration from popular UI designs while refining its own ecosystem for smoother performance and deeper customization.
However, there is a significant downside for some users. According to the latest reports, HyperOS 3.1 will only be available on devices running Android 16, meaning support for older Xiaomi hardware is coming to an end.
⚡ TL;DR – Key Highlights
• New Stacked Recents Menu inspired by iOS
• Smarter Super Island (HyperIsland) animations and settings
• Advanced folder resizing and home screen customization
• Lock screen gains photo editing and depth effects
• Android 16 exclusive – older devices miss out
🎨 What’s New in Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1?
1️⃣ Redesigned Recents Menu (Stacked Layout)
One of the most noticeable changes is the brand-new Stacked Layout Style in the recent apps screen.
✔ Horizontal scrolling app cards
✔ Smooth stacked animation similar to iOS
✔ Replaces the traditional two-column grid
This launcher update is already available for early adopters who want to test it before the stable rollout.
🌈 Super Island Gets Smarter and More Interactive
Xiaomi is significantly upgrading the HyperIsland (Super Island) feature.
New Improvements Include:
• Dedicated Super Island settings page
• Ability to choose which apps trigger animations
• New lighting effects in media playback
• Smoother transitions and reduced animation stutter
These changes directly address long-standing user complaints about laggy animations.
🏠 Home Screen & Lock Screen Customization
HyperOS 3.1 offers more freedom for users who love customization.
Home Screen Enhancements:
• Drag-and-drop folder resizing
• New folder sizes: 2×1 and 1×2
• Folder page-turning support for better app management
Lock Screen Upgrades:
• Built-in photo editing tools
• Improved depth effect integration
• Easier widget placement
⚙️ System-Wide Quality of Life Improvements
Beyond visuals, Xiaomi has added several smart enhancements under the hood:
• Multi-Volume Control: Manage media, ringer, and alarm volumes together
• Improved Bluetooth Memory: Better device reconnection accuracy
• HyperAI Suggestions: Smarter app recommendations (China only)
🧪 HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2: Official Roadmap
Xiaomi has officially announced HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2 recruitment, rolling out in two waves.
⚠️ Note: These are engineering builds, not recommended for daily use.
📅 Wave-Wise Supported Devices
✅ Wave 1 (Starting January 22)
| Category | Devices |
|---|---|
| Xiaomi 17 Series | 17 Ultra, 17 Pro Max, 17 Pro, 17 |
| Redmi | REDMI K90 Pro Max, REDMI K90 |
| Tablets | Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro, Xiaomi Pad 8 |
✅ Wave 2 (By January 30)
| Category | Devices |
|---|---|
| Xiaomi 15 Series | 15 Ultra, 15S Pro, 15 Pro, 15 |
| Xiaomi 14 Series | 14 Ultra, 14 Pro (Titanium), 14 |
| Foldables | Xiaomi MIX Flip 2 |
| Redmi | REDMI K80 Pro, K80 Ultra, K80 |
| Tablets | Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra |
⏳ When Will HyperOS 3.1 Be Available?
• China rollout: Expected to begin in February
• Only devices receiving Android 16 will be eligible
• Flagships will receive updates first
• Some features may later be backported to older Android versions
Beta users will not receive the stable update until the testing phase concludes.
⚠️ Older Devices: What You Should Know
If your Xiaomi or Redmi phone does not qualify for Android 16, HyperOS 3.1 will not be available. While Xiaomi may port select features, the full experience will remain exclusive to newer hardware.