Emir BardakçıWhen Xiaomi HyperOS 3.1 (based on Android 16 ), a beta version of the operating system, was released this week, the tech community immediately began buzzing about it. Xiaomi’s latest OS has introduced a plethora of exciting features, such as a new kernel and a completely redesigned Gallery app. However, the tech community has weighed in on what they consider the most exciting part of the new OS, and it’s not what you might expect.
After using the latest operating system on the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra devices , it is clear that the tech community has fallen in love with two interesting features of the new operating system.
1. Finally, the «stacked» design of recent applications
Xiaomi has finally listened to the community and introduced a new Recent Apps menu that finally matches what iOS offers. The new Recent Apps menu has a completely redesigned look and is now better than ever.
Why users like it:
- Fluid physics: It’s not just about the look, but the feel . Swiping through apps now has an «elastic» friction, mimicking the snap of iOS. It feels weighty, premium, and responsive.
- Better focus: Unlike the old 2-column grid that filled the screen with 4-6 tiny thumbnails, the stacked view focuses all your attention on the app you’re about to select.
- One-handed ease: Large cards are easier to grip and discard with a flick of the thumb, solving a major problem for users with larger devices like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
2. Super Island Unlocked: «Live Updates» for everyone
When the «Super Island» feature was first launched, it was great but limited. It mainly worked with Xiaomi’s own apps (Clock, Recorder, Music). HyperOS 3.1 is changing the game with full adoption of the native Android 16 Live Updates API .
This is a major technical change. It means Xiaomi no longer requires developers to write custom code for HyperOS. This means that if an app supports native Android Live Activities (for example, Uber, Spotify, or food delivery apps), it will automatically work on Xiaomi’s Super Island.
Why it changes the rules of the game:
- Instant Support: You don’t have to wait for your local food delivery app to «add Xiaomi support.» If they support Android 16, they support your Super Island.
- Real-time tracking: Now, track your taxi’s arrival or the status of your order with just a glance at the pill-shaped cutout at the top of the screen, without launching the app and without needing to unlock the screen.
- Seamless Media: Music apps now fit seamlessly into the island with the new glowing progress bar, looking like a native feature rather than a notification.
Important updates for system applications
To ensure that the new visual features are available without errors, it is important that the system launcher and other user interface components are up to date.
You can update this app using our new side project, HyperOSUpdates.com , or using our MemeOS Enhancer app , available on the Play Store . By installing this app, users not only gain access to system app updates but also unlock exclusive Xiaomi features.
Conclusion
Although Xiaomi has often faced criticism for releasing «tricks» rather than real features, HyperOS 3.1 looks like a game-changer. By fixing multitasking animations and opening Super Island to the world of Android apps, they’re giving users what they’ve been asking for: a phone with the smoothness of an iPhone but the flexibility of an Android.
