Xiaomi Unveils HyperOS 4: Glass-Look UI, AI Upgrades, and Faster Performance

Xiaomi has announced the next major update for its software skin, HyperOS 4. Although the system’s development is now formally independent from the Android release cycle (for instance, the current Android 17 update is rolling out as HyperOS 3), version 4 introduces a deep overhaul of the user interface.

New Look for HyperOS 4: The Glass Design Concept

The primary visual change is the transition to a new design system based on a “glass look” aesthetic. The interface now supports the rendering of realistic light refraction effects. Along with these visual updates, personalization options have been expanded: users can flexibly customize the lock screen, adjust the layout of the clock and notifications, resize folders, and group widgets. Additionally, seamless switching between portrait and landscape app orientations has been implemented.

Example of the glass look design

Performance and Optimization

Xiaomi engineers have placed significant focus on internal optimization. According to internal tests, after 9 hours of continuous device usage, app launch speeds in HyperOS 4 are 18% faster compared to the current HyperOS 3. This is achieved through AI algorithms that predict resource demand and pre-load them into RAM.

Camera and Media Improvements

An updated HDR photo processing algorithm has reduced frame processing time from 310ms to 240ms. The “cold” start of the camera app is also 200ms faster. Issues with dropped frames have been resolved to ensure stable video playback.

Super AI Assistant 2.0 and New Interaction Capabilities

The system is based on Xiaomi’s proprietary language model, MiMo. The new assistant handles transcription of speech, note organization, gallery searches, and control of smart home devices and vehicles. UI integration is implemented via “Xiaomi Super Island” — an interactive area around the camera cutout that provides updates on request status.

An interesting new feature is the “Inspiration Ball,” which acts as a smart pointer. It can be used, for example, to drag an address into Maps or find a product image online. However, for the global market, the functionality of this element may be limited due to overlap with Google Circle to Search.

Beta Testing Schedule

Public beta testing started on August 14, primarily for the Chinese region. It is expected that this list of devices will form the basis for the first wave of the global release.

List of Devices for Beta Testing (by date)

The first wave of updates will begin in the afternoon of August 14, with subsequent stages being rolled out gradually.