HyperOS 3 — Xiaomi’s Android 16-based update — brings fresh visuals, AI utilities, improved performance, and new device interactions. If your phone or tablet is on the eligible list and you want a safe, predictable upgrade, this step-by-step guide shows exactly what to do, how to upgrade to HyperOS 3, what to watch for, and how to recover if something goes wrong. Below you’ll find practical, non-technical instructions aimed at everyday users and enthusiasts alike.
Before you start: confirm eligibility and timing
HyperOS 3 is not available on all devices simultaneously. Xiaomi introduced the global rollout plan of HyperOS 3 and the list of compatible models; the rollout will be made in waves (the first in Oct–Nov 2025, the more extensive ones between 2026 through early 2027). Visit the official HyperOS 3 page of Check Xiaomi and refer to the list of device schedules to find the precise date when your specific model will be available before trying any other means.
Quick checklist before you begin:
- Check your model and region/variance (Global vs China vs India).
- Make sure that HyperOS 3 is supported on your model, or that you are in the beta program.
Step 1 — Backup everything (don’t skip this)
Step 1 on How to Upgrade to HyperOS 3. System software upgrade is usually not dangerous, yet failures can occur. Back up first.
- Contacts & calendar: Google account or VCF export.
- Videos and photos: Use Google Photos, Mi Cloud, or copy to a PC.
- WhatsApp & chat backups: Make the steps of the backup process in the app (iCloud (iPhone) or Google Drive (Android)).
- Whole device backup: Back up with Xiaomi internal backup ( Mi Cloud or local backup in the settings section under About phone→Backup) and put in mind a local copy to your PC.
A complete backup lets you restore if anything goes sideways.
Step 2 — Prepare your device
- Keep your phone plugged in until it reaches 60-80% charge or leave it plugged in throughout the update.
- Clear at least 10-15 GB of internal storage (OTA packages and temporary files will require space). When space is limited in the storage, delete huge unwanted files or relocate media to the cloud.
- Get on a decent Wi-Fi connection; OTA updates are big and cellular connection failures are dangerous.
- Turn off battery savers and VPN programs that can disrupt the process of updating.
Step 3 — Check for and install the official OTA (recommended)
The safest route is waiting for the over-the-air (OTA) update. To check:
- Open Settings → About phone → System update (or Settings → System & updates depending on your model).
- Tap Check for updates. If HyperOS 3 is available for your model/region, you’ll see it listed with an option to download and install.
- Read the release notes and follow the onscreen instructions. Let the phone reboot and finish the installation without interrupting power.
Official OTA releases are staged; if your device doesn’t see the update, be patient — it may arrive in later waves. Notebookcheck and other outlets confirm HyperOS 3 staged rollouts through March 2026.
Step 4 — Join the beta (Mi Pilot / HyperOS Beta) — optional, advanced
You can be on the beta and take more risk to get early access, offered by Xiaomi ( Mi Pilot / HyperOS Beta ). The official Xiaomi Community page provides the steps of enrolling – create an account using Mi, register for the beta, and instructions about the internal testing center. Beta releases are buggy; they are only worth joining when you are willing to test and report bugs.
Step 5 — Manual install options (use only if you know what you’re doing)
Sideloading or manual flashing is more dangerous and might be considered a warranty-removing action or a device-bricking situation. Only advanced users should:
- Use official recovery images on the Xiaomi site (where they have been published regarding your model).
- Just follow official flashing directions ( unlock bootloader if needed which wipes the device )
- Have a copy of the original firmware as well as a tested recovery procedure.
If you’re unsure, don’t attempt manual installs—use the OTA or wait for official channels.
Step 6 — Post-update checks and cleanup
After upgrade:
- Verify data: open Contacts, Photos, Messages, and your most important apps.
- Check for app updates in Google Play / App Gallery; some apps may need updates for compatibility.
- Reconfigure permissions that the system reset during the upgrade.
- Re-enable lock screen, VPN, and security apps if you had temporarily disabled them.
If something’s wrong, first try a safe reboot. If issues persist, restore from the backup you made before updating or boot into recovery and perform a cache wipe (not a factory reset unless necessary).
Troubleshooting & rollback options
- In case of failure during the update process, attempt to boot into recovery (Power + Volume key combo) and clear cache, and re-attempt OTA.
- To roll back to get out of beta, visit Xiaomi Community rollback packages and official rollback instructions, some rollbacks use a clean install and will delete user data. Always keep backups.
- Warranty and support:contact Xiaomi support with the details of your device logs and update them, then they can give you advice.
Final tips
- Wait for the OTA unless you need features immediately; staged rollouts reduce problems.
- Read the official HyperOS 3 release notes on Xiaomi’s site for device-specific changes and known issues.
- If you rely on your phone for work, delay major upgrades until the second maintenance patch arrives—early adopters help surface bugs.
Upgrading to HyperOS 3 can refresh your device with fast system improvements and new tools, but cautious preparation makes the experience smooth. Follow these steps for How to Upgrade to HyperOS 3 safely: confirm eligibility, back up, use the OTA, and only use beta or manual installs if you understand the risks. If you want, I can create a printable checklist or a short video script you can follow during your upgrade — which would be more helpful?
