Explore HyperOS 3's top features like HyperIsland multitasking, AI tools, cross-ecosystem integration, and enhanced security on Android 16 for Xiaomi smartphones.
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HyperOS 3 is more than just another update to Xiaomi's custom interface. While based on Android 16, the company has significantly expanded its capabilities with proprietary design solutions, advanced AI features, and enhanced security. As a result, HyperOS 3 feels like a standalone platform rather than just "Android with add-ons." Here are five key features that make this interface notably more interesting than the standard Android 16 version.
Android 16 introduced Live Updates—notifications for ongoing tasks like deliveries or rides that appear on the lock screen and in the notification shade. However, Xiaomi has gone further with its own HyperIsland concept.
HyperIsland is an interactive "island" at the top of the screen that can display up to three active processes in real time. Users can control music playback, answer calls, switch between tasks, and even open related apps in floating windows with a simple swipe down.
A key difference from Android 16 is HyperIsland's deep integration with the system and third-party apps. WhatsApp, YouTube, Spotify, and other services are supported out of the box, whereas Live Updates in Android largely depend on developer implementation.
HyperOS 3 transforms the lock screen from merely functional to visually expressive. The new AI Cinematic Lock Screen feature adds a cinematic effect with each device unlock, creating a premium interface feel.
AI Dynamic Wallpapers turn ordinary photos into dynamic images with depth and smooth animations. Transitions between Always On Display, the lock screen, and the home screen have become more fluid and visually cohesive.
While Android 16 remains minimalist and practical, HyperOS 3 clearly focuses on personalization and creativity, allowing users to customize their device's appearance more deeply.
One of the most surprising aspects of HyperOS 3 is its expanded integration with the Apple ecosystem. Xiaomi has implemented features previously available only within its own Android ecosystem.
The "Share by Touch" function now works with Apple devices, enabling quick sharing of photos, videos, files, and even Wi-Fi passwords. iPad users can launch apps from Xiaomi smartphones using Home Screen+ with full multitasking capabilities.
Additionally, Xiaomi devices can be unlocked via Touch ID and Face ID, Apple devices can connect to Xiaomi hotspots with a single tap, and Xiaomi smartphones can be located from Apple devices. In contrast, Android 16 primarily focuses on interaction between Android devices.
HyperOS 3 includes its own suite of AI tools called HyperAI, reducing reliance on separate Google apps like Gemini or Translate.
The AI Writing feature can rewrite texts in different styles, create image captions, and supports a DeepThink mode for long notes. AI Speech Recognition improves speech recording quality, reduces background noise, converts audio to text, and automatically generates brief summaries of recordings.
AI Search allows instant internet searches, generates concise AI descriptions of results, and enables on-device content searches. AI Translate supports live translation for calls and meetings, bilingual subtitles, and an offline mode for private conversations without a network connection.
Android 16 offers Android Protection with anti-theft features, offline locking, and USB protection. HyperOS 3 includes all these capabilities and adds Xiaomi's own solutions.
The system provides quantum-level data protection aimed at future threats, along with AI-driven data protection both on-device and in the cloud. It utilizes on-device and cloud computing, plus security protocols based on MiTEE, enhancing user data privacy.
Overall, HyperOS 3.0 on Android 16 is not just an update but a significant leap forward for Xiaomi devices. With improved multitasking, advanced artificial intelligence, deep ecosystem integration, and enhanced security, standard Android appears less functional compared to this new interface. This move clearly shows Xiaomi aiming to build its own ecosystem that goes beyond the typical Android experience.