Xiaomi has redefined its software update strategy, a decision that will result in the exclusion of eight smartphone models from the long-awaited HyperOS 3 and Android 16 versions. The Chinese manufacturer confirmed the change in its official schedule, clarifying that support for the devices in question will end in the HyperOS 2.2 version, which is based on the Redmi and POCO.

The company’s justification is based on technical criteria, such as previously programmed support cycles for each device and hardware limitations that could compromise performance with the new systems. The previously released update list mistakenly included these models, which prompted a public fix to align with user expectations. With the change, affected devices will continue to function normally, but will not receive the new features and interface improvements promised.

For owners of these devices, the main consequence is the absence of new features, such as artificial intelligence optimizations and the renewed interface, which are the main attractions of HyperOS 3. The company’s policy, however, ensures that all excluded models will continue to receive periodic security updates until they reach their respective end-of-life (EOL) dates, guaranteeing protection against critical vulnerabilities.

Devices affected by deletion

The list revised by High-volume Modelos, such as the Redmi 13C, the POCO C65 and the Redmi 12, are among those that will not receive the upgrade. End of support dates for these devices vary, extending from November 2026 to January 2028, depending on the specific model and the date of its original global market launch.

The decision to focus the development of Android 16 on devices with more robust hardware signals a clear prioritization of performance. The company understands that implementing more demanding features in entry-level chipsets could result in a slow and unstable user experience, which could harm the brand’s reputation in the long term. The new policy aims to ensure that only devices capable of running the system smoothly receive the full update, preserving the quality of the user experience.

Missing Features in HyperOS 2.2

Users of devices that will not receive HyperOS 3 will be without access to a series of visual and functional improvements. The new interface, dubbed “liquid glass”, is designed to offer smoother animations and fluid transitions, while the control center has been redesigned to be more intuitive and customizable. Deleted models will continue with the current interface, which has simpler icons and a basic version of the Super Xiao AI assistant.

In addition to the aesthetic changes, HyperOS 3 promises significant performance optimizations. Testes carried out in beta versions indicate an improvement of up to 20% in energy efficiency, thanks to new adaptive battery modes that learn from an individual’s usage pattern.

Android 16’s privacy and security improvements, which include more granular controls over app permissions and improved malware protections, will also not be ported to older devices. Isso means that although they will receive security patches, they will not have the latest security architecture developed by Google.

HyperOS 3 Adjusted Timeline

The HyperOS 3 distribution plan is scheduled to begin in October, with high-end models such as the upcoming Xiaomi 15T series being the first to receive the new version. A beta phase is already underway, testing innovative features such as “Super Island”, a dynamic notification system similar to other brands, and deeper integration with third-party ecosystems, including Apple products.

By the first quarter of 2026, more than 50 global models, including smartphones, tablets and wearables, are expected to be updated. Essa initial phase of implementation will prioritize the latest and most powerful devices, optimizing the system for better battery management and greater efficiency in 5G connectivity. Software distribution will occur in regional batches, with China and Europa receiving updates first. Para users in other regions, such as Brasil, early access to trial versions is often available through subscriptions in the Mi Community app, allowing enthusiasts to try out new features before the official release.

Security support for the excluded

Although they will not receive new system features, the eight excluded models will have their security guaranteed through specific updates. Esses patches are designed to fix security vulnerabilities and protect users against digital threats such as network exploits and malware. The Redmi 12, for example, is guaranteed security patches until June 2027, a period that covers most of its expected lifespan. Essa approach follows the standards recommended by Google for the Android ecosystem, which focuses on maintaining device stability and security without burdening hardware with functionality it was not designed to support. Modelos like the Redmi Note 13 with NFC, which is scheduled to EOL in January 2028, will continue to support Play Store applications for a long time. The Xiaomi reinforces that the HyperOS 2.2 version, in which these devices will remain, already incorporates several performance improvements compared to previous systems. Entre they include more efficient memory management and background optimizations that contribute to a more fluid everyday usage experience. Maintaining security is a fundamental pillar of the strategy, ensuring that, even without the latest interface innovations, users’ data and privacy remain protected against the most common cyber threats. Isso allows consumers to continue using their devices with peace of mind until they decide to upgrade their hardware.

Comparison with competitors

Xiaomi’s software update policy, which generally offers three to four years of support for its mid-range devices, contrasts with the strategies of other market giants. Samsung, for example, has established itself as a leader in the Android universe by promising up to seven years of system and security updates for its latest Galaxy lines. Apple, in turn, maintains tight control over its ecosystem, offering an average of six years of iOS updates.

Xiaomi’s strategy appears focused on a balance between delivering innovations quickly but limiting its availability to newer hardware to ensure maximum performance. Essa diferença reflete modelos de negócios distintos, onde a competição se dá tanto pela longevidade do software quanto pela velocidade de lançamento de novas tecnologias.

What to expect for the future of HyperOS

Despite the exclusion of some models, HyperOS development continues at a rapid pace. The launch of compatible devices, such as the Redmi Note 14 line, is scheduled to begin in December, reinforcing the importance of checking the support schedule before purchasing a new smartphone to ensure access to the brand’s future software innovations.