HMD Global unveiled the Nokia C31 at IFA 2022 which took place in the first week of September. This device is an entry-level smartphone and is limited to 4G connectivity.

It was released in China a month later in October. Now, a year after the handset’s debut in the country, an interesting detail has emerged.

As per the available information, the phone now ships with a different software than it launched with.

Nokia-branded smartphones from HMD Global boot near-to-stock Android software worldwide, except in China. Because Google is banned in this country, and therefore, the software on phones has evolved differently compared to other markets.

For the unaware, Nokia smartphones in China have tweaked UI elements and personalized services. They do not look like the software that you find on the same handsets elsewhere.

Despite being different, the software on Nokia phones in China is light. But this is not the case anymore, at least on the Nokia C31.

As per @Hikari_Calyx on X (formerly Twitter), the newer units of the Nokia C31 now ship with Freeme OS in China. This software is developed by Shanghai Zhuoyi Technology Co., Ltd, which also goes by Droi.

Feeme OS is a heavy skin on Android like popular Chinese skins, such as MIUI. It nowhere resembles the stock Android, which is one of the key selling points of Nokia handsets.

The Nokia C31 is eligible for 2 years of quarterly security updates. However, the units with Freeme OS are stuck with the October 2022 security patch.

It seems that this particular version of the device may not receive any system update at all. As HMD Global did not promise any Android update for the phone, it will remain on Android 12 forever.

The Nokia C31 is powered by an entry-level Unisoc SC9863A1 chip and costs ¥799 (~$110) in China. At this price, consumers get better options from local brands.

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The post Nokia C31 now ships with Freeme OS in China appeared first on Gizmochina.

These days, it is not just cellphone manufacturers that are producing third-party operating systems. Even non-cellphone companies are doing it too. Take, for example, the new Freeme OS. An OS can be evaluated based on aesthetics and its functions, that is, whether it looks good or whether it is practical. Here we will evaluate the Freeme OS by comparing it to another influential third-party OS, the MIUI (we will use the latest versions for both, the MIUI 6 and Freeme 4.0).

Interface

     Since the release of the iOS7, many re-customized operating systems have been copying Apple by adopting a “flat” design. The MIUI 6 and Freeme are no exceptions. Furthermore, both only have a one-level menu. The MIUI 6’s interface is similar to its predecessor, the MIUI V5, with its simpler-looking icons. The Freeme OS has already reached been upgraded to its fourth version.

Regarding their settings menu, both OS have a white background with a black font. The MIUI 6 uses a bold font. Furthermore, the MIUI 6’s settings bard is divided into blocks. You can change from one part of the settings menu to another by just touching its block. The Freeme OS, on the other hand, uses a similar design to the Meizu Flyme. You can change the text describing each tab by scrolling your finger left to right. Furthermore, the Freeme OS has the settings menu divided into two blocks. On the left side is the basic Settings menu, while on the right side is the expanded menu.

On appearance, the design of the newcomer, the Freeme OS, is not as exquisite-looking as the experienced MIUI, but it still looks good. If it makes some improvements later in things such as the font in the menus, then, it would probably become more beautiful.

The MIUI usually offers more services. The MIUI 6, for example, promotes many internet services such as Xiaomi events or yellow book functions. The webpage version is filled with all kinds of services.

Through its partnership with Cheetah Mobile, Xiaomi also added new upgrades with the MIUI by adding a trash bin, internet assistant, power management center, etc.

The Freeme is not without its strengths as well. One of Freeme OS’ best features is its letting its multi-task menu floating over the interface, similar to iPhone’s Assistive Touch. In the screen, there is a small white circle that you can click to open the multi-task function. However, unlike with the iPhone, the multi-task bar shows apps such as the calculator and video player. It’s very practical.

Conclusion: After several years since it was first launch, the MIUI has changed and improved a lot over the years, while the newcomer, the Freeme OS, still has a lot of catching up to do. Still, it’s not off at a bad start and may still improve over time.

The post Freeme OS vs MIUI 6: An OS comparison appeared first on Gizmochina.