Key Highlights

• HyperOS 3.1 introduces a stacked iOS-style Recents menu.
• Super Island gets new animations and a dedicated settings page.
• Home screen folders become fully resizable with new layouts.
• The update runs only on devices eligible for Android 16.

Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 Update is set to reshape how Xiaomi phones look and feel. The update brings major UI changes, new animations, and deeper customization. But there is a catch. HyperOS 3.1 works only on devices that receive Android 16, leaving many older models behind.

This matters because it marks a clean break in Xiaomi’s software strategy. Visual upgrades now depend on the next Android base. Users on unsupported hardware will miss these features.

What’s new in the Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 Update?

HyperOS 3.1 focuses on how users switch apps, manage their home screen, and interact with live notifications.

The Recents screen now offers a “Stacked” layout. Instead of a grid, apps appear in a horizontal stack, similar to iOS. The design makes multitasking feel smoother and more visual.

Xiaomi also upgrades HyperIsland, also called Super Island. It now has its own settings page. Users can choose which apps trigger the animation. Media playback gains lighting effects on the progress bar. Xiaomi says it has optimized transitions to fix past stuttering issues.

Home screen folders become more flexible. Users can resize them using drag and drop. New formats like 2×1 and 1×2 arrive. Folders now support page turning, letting users store more apps in a small space.

The lock screen gains deeper photo editing tools. Users can fine-tune depth effects and widget placement directly.

Why is Android 16 mandatory?

The Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 Update is tightly linked to Android 16. Xiaomi built these features on the new system architecture. As a result, only devices approved for Android 16 can run this version.

This means older Xiaomi and Redmi phones will not get HyperOS 3.1 in full. Xiaomi may backport select features. But the core update will remain exclusive to newer models.

Beta rollout and supported devices

Xiaomi has started HyperOS 3 Beta Phase 2 in China. The rollout runs in two waves from January 22 to January 30.

Wave 1 includes the Xiaomi 17 series, Redmi K90 series, and Xiaomi Pad 8 models.
Wave 2 covers the Xiaomi 15 series, Xiaomi 14 series, MIX Flip 2, Redmi K80 series, and Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra.

These are engineering builds. Xiaomi warns users not to use them as daily drivers.

When will users get it?

Xiaomi plans to begin public rollout in China in February. Only Android 16 devices will qualify. Flagships like the Xiaomi 17 lineup will lead the update cycle.

For users on unsupported phones, the Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 Update signals a turning point. Future UI evolution now depends on newer hardware.