MEGA LEAK: Xiaomi HyperOS 3 Set to Revolutionize with iOS-Style Recents and System App Overhauls

Xiaomi, the tech giant known for its innovation and killer value, has the tech community buzzing with the latest leaks surrounding their next-generation operating system, HyperOS 3. This upcoming iteration of their Android-based UI is gearing up for some seriously significant changes, taking clear inspiration from the design and functionality of Apple’s iOS.

From a revamped recent apps menu that screams iOS to updates in essential apps like Compass, Sound Recorder, Clock, and Calculator, HyperOS 3 is poised to deliver a smoother, more modern, and visually appealing experience. In this article, we’ll break down the most recent leaks, highlight what these updates mean for you, and explore how Xiaomi is gearing up to redefine its software.

A Glimpse into HyperOS 3: A Leap Towards the Future?

HyperOS, first launched back in October 2023 as the successor to MIUI, marked a major strategic shift in Xiaomi’s software approach. Designed to create a unified experience across mobile, IoT, and even automotive devices, HyperOS is built on Android but integrates its own elements, like the Vela system, with a strong focus on performance optimization.

Now, with HyperOS 3, Xiaomi seems to be pushing the boundaries even further, not just in functionality but also in design, drawing clear inspiration from iOS 18 and the rumored iOS 26. The leaks, which have trickled out through user surveys and social media posts, paint a picture of an OS aiming for greater intuitiveness, elegance, and a premium feel, all while retaining the beloved customization options that Xiaomi fans adore.

The official rollout of HyperOS 3 is anticipated for October 2025, likely coinciding with the launch of the Xiaomi 16 series. It’s expected to grace a whopping 96 devices across the Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO brands. While some devices will receive a build based on Android 15 and others on Android 16, depending on their hardware capabilities, these leaks strongly suggest that HyperOS 3 will bring aesthetic and functional enhancements that will make users feel a significant refresh on their devices, even if they don’t snag the absolute latest Android version.

The iOS-Style Recents Menu: HyperOS 3’s Undisputed Star

One of the most talked-about features in HyperOS 3 is its brand-new recent apps menu, codenamed “Pile Up”, which sports a design heavily inspired by iOS. This change, previously hinted at in HyperOS 2.0, represents a massive evolution from the vertical or horizontal menus seen in previous MIUI and HyperOS versions. The “Pile Up” design showcases recent apps in a stacked card view, very much like iOS’s multitasking interface. Here, apps are presented in an overlapping arrangement that allows for lateral scrolling to select them. This approach isn’t just visually pleasing; it promises to be more intuitive, making switching between apps a breeze.

Leaked code bearing the label “IOS_SCHEME” confirms that Xiaomi is actively working on this feature, aiming to emulate the simplicity and elegance of Apple’s interface. However, it’s not a direct copy – Xiaomi is adding its own flair, integrating fluid animations and a design that fits seamlessly within the HyperOS ecosystem. Users who’ve managed to get their hands on beta versions have been praising the speed and smoothness of the “Pile Up” menu, though some have admitted it might take a little getting used to due to its radical departure from previous iterations.

Compass App: A Visual and Functional Refresh

The Compass app in HyperOS 3 has also been a subject of leaks, and the changes look seriously promising. According to shared imagery, the app features a refreshed interface with a cleaner design and incorporates Liquid Glass effects. This design language utilizes transparencies and blurs to create a sense of depth. The icons have been redesigned for better visibility and visual consistency with the rest of the system, and the opening animations are smoother, enhancing the user experience when interacting with the app.

While the Compass isn’t an app every user will be diving into daily, these improvements showcase Xiaomi’s commitment to visual consistency across all its system applications. The Liquid Glass effects, echoing design trends seen in iOS 26, give the app a modern and premium feel, which could definitely appeal to users seeking a more visually engaging experience.

Sound Recorder: Smarter and More Elegant

The Sound Recorder app is also getting a significant upgrade in HyperOS 3. Leaks reveal a revamped design with a more intuitive interface and improved animations. What’s more exciting are the integrated AI-powered features, such as enhanced voice recognition, which can transcribe recordings or even identify speakers in real-time. These capabilities are particularly handy for professionals or students who rely on recordings for note-taking or interviews.

The app’s design also embraces those Liquid Glass effects, giving it a more polished and consistent look with the rest of the OS. Transitions between menus and animations during recording start or pause are smoother, contributing to a more pleasant user experience. These upgrades highlight that Xiaomi isn’t just focusing on aesthetics but also on adding practical functionalities that boost usability.

Clock: Elegance and Functionality in Every Detail

The Clock app in HyperOS 3 appears to have been completely redesigned, based on the leaks. The V17.3.0 version introduces a refreshed bottom navigation bar, improved icons for better visibility, and a more elegant display structure. Opening animations are smoother, and the app now integrates more seamlessly with the rest of the operating system, offering a more cohesive experience.

Additionally, new customization options have been added, including the ability to change clock styles and adjust the appearance of home screen widgets. These enhancements not only make the app more visually appealing but also more functional, especially for those users who rely on alarms, timers, or stopwatches in their daily routines.

Calculator: Small Changes, Big Impact

The Calculator app is also getting a makeover in HyperOS 3. Leaks show buttons with rounded corners and a cleaner interface, with a more accessible conversion section at the top. This update aims to allow users to perform calculations and conversions (like time, currency, or units) more quickly and efficiently. While the changes might seem subtle, they contribute to the overall sense of modernity and consistency that Xiaomi is aiming for with HyperOS 3.

Animations: The Soul of HyperOS 3

Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of the HyperOS 3 leaks are the new system animations. From screen transitions to dropdown menus, Xiaomi has clearly been working hard to make every interaction smoother and more visually pleasing. The animations within apps like Compass, Sound Recorder, Clock, and Calculator have been redesigned to offer a more immersive experience. Furthermore, the operating system as a whole is adopting Liquid Glass effects, which add a layer of depth and sophistication to the interface.

These animations aren’t just for show; they also enhance the perceived performance of the device. According to internal Xiaomi testing, HyperOS 3 is said to reduce memory latency and optimize task cycles, leading to a faster and more efficient experience overall.

What Does This Mean for You, the User?

The leaks surrounding HyperOS 3 indicate that Xiaomi is serious about delivering a more polished and modern user experience, without sacrificing the flexibility that Android is known for. While the inspiration from iOS is evident, it’s not just a simple clone; Xiaomi is adapting these ideas to integrate with its own ecosystem and cater to the needs of its user base. The planned support for 96 devices ensures that both owners of flagship models and those with more budget-friendly devices can look forward to these improvements.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Some users have voiced concerns about the presence of ads in previous HyperOS versions, an issue Xiaomi hasn’t entirely resolved yet. Additionally, those with unlocked bootloaders might face restrictions in receiving updates, which can be a point of frustration for the enthusiast community.

The Road Ahead: HyperOS 3, A Step Towards Excellence

With HyperOS 3, Xiaomi is demonstrating its ambition to not only compete with industry giants but also to set a new benchmark for Android custom UI experiences. The iOS-style recent apps menu, redesigned core apps like Compass, Sound Recorder, Clock, and Calculator, and the brand-new animations are just the tip of the iceberg. By focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and optimization, HyperOS 3 is shaping up to be an update that will make Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices feel more premium than ever before.

If you’re eager to get a taste of these new features, you can explore some functionalities through tools like the MemeOS Enhancer app or stay updated on the latest developments via HyperOSUpdates.com. With the official launch drawing nearer, September 2025 is shaping up to be a very exciting month for Xiaomi fans. Are you ready to experience HyperOS 3? Let us know your thoughts and expectations!