Xiaomi has introduced the latest iteration of its custom Android 10 interface, the MIUI 12, via a global livestream on 19 May 2020. The updated interface includes a slew of new features, including a refreshed UI design, floating windows, ultra battery saver, enhanced security and so on.
The company touts MIUI 12 to be more fluid and lifelike with better animations during opening, closing and switching applications, thanks to its newly included physics engine. Floating windows for multitasking are also added in the new update, which allows users to minimise chats, videos, or web browsers to a smaller window that can be dragged around on the screen.
Super Wallpapers is another new addition included with the new interface. These are basically high resolution live wallpapers of Earth and Mars that animate whenever users interact with the screen. Besides that, the new Weather feature also provides a live wallpaper-like experience that changes background accordingly in real-time based on the current local weather condition.
Perhaps the biggest change included in the latest Xiaomi custom UI is the App Drawer function, a feature that has been absent from the brand’s line of smartphones for quite some time. Mi users can now opt to have the function activated if they wish to store rarely used apps in the drawer and have less clutter on their home and main screens.
MIUI 12 also introduces a new Ultra Battery Saving mode that allows users to get more out of their phone in a low battery state. This is made possible by disabling various power consuming applications, features and animations, as well as activating Dark Mode throughout this state.
Speaking of which, Xiaomi included an updated version of the MIUI Dark Mode as well. Aside from enabling the mode for its main interface and first party applications, MIUI 12 will also automatically activate Dark Mode for other apps as well – even those that do not feature it.
User security has been completely overhauled in the new UI, with users now given more privileges and features to ensure that their privacy remains secure. The interface will notify users via an icon on the upper left corner of their screen if their contacts, location, phone cameras and microphone are being accessed without their knowledge.
While this next security feature is nothing new for those familiar with Android 10, MIUI 12 now enables its users to allow applications to access certain functions only when the app is being used. This includes when an app requests to access the phone’s microphone or location via GPS, and so on. Of course, the user can also decide to fully give access to the app or disallow it entirely whenever they see fit.
According to Xiaomi, the first round of MIUI 12 rollouts will start by late June and will arrive on five devices: Mi 9, Mi 9T, Mi 9T Pro, Redmi K20 and Redmi K20 Pro. The second round will begin much later and will be announced on social media. Other phones listed to receive the new UI update include the Redmi Note series from 7 onwards, Mi 10 series, Mi Note 10 series, all POCO devices, and many more.
Additionally, Xiaomi also announced that beta testing for MIUI 12 will start next week. Interested users can apply for the beta via Xiaomi social media or the Mi Community section in its official website.
(Source: Xiaomi)
