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Xiaomi is gearing up for HyperOS 3, a significant software refresh that promises visual refinements, AI-driven enhancements, and new features. Reports indicate Xiaomi will follow its recent approach of shipping two HyperOS 3 branches: one built on Android 15 and another based on Android 16. However, not every device eligible for HyperOS 3 will receive the Android 16-based build. A recent list compiled by Xiaomi Time identifies 31 Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO models that are expected to stop at the Android 15-based HyperOS 3 release.
Devices that will not receive the Android 16 update
These models are expected to receive HyperOS 3 based on Android 15 only, marking the end of their major Android upgrade path.
Xiaomi models
- Xiaomi 12
- Xiaomi 12 Pro
- Xiaomi 12S
- Xiaomi 12S Pro
- Xiaomi 12S Ultra
- Xiaomi 12T
- Xiaomi 12T Pro
- Xiaomi Civi 3
- Xiaomi MIX FOLD 2
Redmi models
- Redmi 12
- Redmi 12 5G
- Redmi 13C
- Redmi 13C 5G
- Redmi 13R
- Redmi K50 Ultra
- Redmi K60
- Redmi Note 12 4G
- Redmi Note 12 NFC 4G
- Redmi Note 12R
- Redmi Note 12S
- Redmi Note 12T Pro
- Redmi Note 12 Turbo
- Redmi Note 13 4G
- Redmi Note 13 4G NFC
- Redmi Note 13 5G
- Redmi Note 13R Pro
POCO models
- POCO C65
- POCO F5 5G
- POCO F5 Pro
- POCO M6 Pro
- POCO X6 Neo
What HyperOS 3 brings: features and AI upgrades
HyperOS 3 promises a refreshed UI, system-level AI integrations, privacy and security enhancements, and performance optimizations. Even for models limited to the Android 15-based HyperOS 3, users should expect visual improvements, better power management, and new customization options. However, Android 16-exclusive APIs and platform-level features will remain reserved for devices upgraded to the Android 16 HyperOS 3 build.
Comparison and advantages
Devices that do receive the Android 16 branch will benefit from the latest platform-level security updates, new Android 16 APIs for developers, and potential performance gains tied to the newer runtime. Phones stuck on Android 15-based HyperOS 3 will still gain many HyperOS-specific features, but they may miss incremental improvements tied to Android 16 such as enhanced multitasking behaviors or newer privacy controls.
Use cases and market relevance
For buyers and enterprise users, the upgrade path matters for longevity, security, and app compatibility. Flagship owners on older Xiaomi 12-series hardware should weigh the trade-offs: strong hardware remains useful for gaming, photography, and productivity, but businesses that require extended platform support may prefer newer models with guaranteed Android 16 updates.
When will Xiaomi start rolling out HyperOS 3?
Xiaomi has not confirmed an exact release date. Industry chatter suggests the company has paused work on its current build to fully focus on HyperOS 3, and a beta program could begin soon — potentially with an Android 16-based beta for select devices. Expect staged rollouts, starting with a small set of flagship phones before wider distribution.
Recommendations for owners
- Check official Xiaomi channels for rollout timelines and security patch commitments.
- If continuous Android platform updates are critical, consider upgrading to a newer device next year.
- Back up data before installing HyperOS 3 beta or stable updates and monitor community feedback on stability and battery life.
Ultimately, HyperOS 3 will deliver visible improvements across Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO lines, but the Android 16 branch will be limited to a subset of newer or supported models. Owners of the 31 devices listed above should plan accordingly to maintain feature parity and long-term security.
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