Xiaomi today announced a significant change to the development strategy for HyperOS. It’s replacing the existing “Development” version with a new initiative called the “Beta” version.

Xiaomi currently rolls out a “Development” version of its custom skin for early adopters who are comfortable with potential bugs and glitches in exchange for experiencing the latest features. This approach, while valuable for gathering initial feedback, wasn’t without drawbacks.

Should you upgrade to HyperOS

The new Beta program promises a more smoother experience. Beta testers will still get a sneak peek at upcoming features but with the crucial advantage of seamless upgrades between the Beta and official versions. 

That means no more wiping data when switching between testing and daily use – a major pain point for previous “Development” version users. Additionally, Beta testers will receive updates pushed directly from the official version, ensuring they stay updated without needing manual intervention.

Another key improvement is Xiaomi’s new approach to recruitment and release cycles. The “Beta version” program will adopt a flexible model for new feature releases. 

This means there won’t be a fixed schedule for feature rollouts; instead, they’ll be rolled out as needed. It will allow for targeted testing of upcoming features, which could result in more refined updates. 

Xiaomi plans to discontinue the “Development version” by August 2024. Existing users can seamlessly upgrade to the official version without data loss.

The inaugural recruitment for the Beta program is expected to begin in Q4 2024. Specific details regarding compatible phones and application procedures will be announced on the Xiaomi Community Internal Test Center application page.

The revamped system development plan offers several benefits for both Xiaomi and its users. Users can enjoy a more stable Beta experience with smooth upgrades, while Xiaomi benefits from focused testing and quicker feedback loops to enhance HyperOS.

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