In May, technology journalist Mark Gurman reported that Apple might be replacing its sequential operating system version numbers for good. Instead of moving to iOS 19, Apple might skip to iOS 26. The same would occur with macOS, iPadOS, and other operating systems. With this new method, OS versions would be associated with the calendar year. The reason is to simplify marketing and prevent confusion regarding release dates.
Xiaomi to Use Calendar-Based Naming for HyperOS
Now, Xiaomi seems to be doing the same with its own software. Xiaomi is preparing the subsequent release of HyperOS, with the new release based on Android 16. Instead of calling it HyperOS 3, Xiaomi would call it HyperOS 26 to keep it relevant for the year 2026. If the transition happens, the new version will need to come out in October or November.
Xiaomi HyperOS 26 Expected to Launch in Late 2025
This naming system is helpful to the users. It makes it easier to track when each version was released. If you have a “26” in the name, then you’ll be able to tell it’s from 2026. That makes updates easier to understand.
But it also imposes difficulties on the company. Synchronizing the OS version with the calendar year forces Xiaomi to stick to a strict yearly release cycle. Postponing releases would place the naming sequence out of rhythm and confuse users or partners.
As we get closer to the expected launch, more information is likely to come to the surface. If Xiaomi proceeds with this change, it would be part of a trend of tech companies streamlining their software versions.
For consumers, it could translate to fewer confusing update cycles. For companies, it could mean tighter timelines. Whatever the reason, the company may be moving in the direction of a more standard and more accessible name convention.
