Xiaomi smartphones primarily use MIUI, which is their customized operating system based on the Android open-source project. While it builds upon the core Android framework, MIUI features a heavily modified user interface and integrates numerous Xiaomi-developed services and applications.
Understanding MIUI: Xiaomi's Android Customization
MIUI stands for "MI User Interface." It was first released in 2010, shortly before Xiaomi launched its first smartphone. Over the years, MIUI has evolved significantly, offering a distinct user experience compared to stock Android.
Key aspects of MIUI:
- Android-Based: At its core, MIUI runs on the Android operating system. This means it benefits from Android's vast app ecosystem and underlying functionalities.
- Deep Customization: Xiaomi heavily modifies the Android base, including the look and feel of the interface, notification shade, settings menu, and pre-installed applications.
- Proprietary Components: While the foundational Android elements are open-source, MIUI includes many proprietary components developed by Xiaomi, such as their specific apps (e.g., Mi Browser, Mi Video, Security app) and services.
- Regular Updates: Xiaomi regularly updates MIUI, bringing new features, security patches, and performance improvements, often alongside new Android version releases.
MIUI Evolution and Features
MIUI has undergone numerous iterations, with each version introducing new design elements and functionalities. It aims to provide a rich feature set that caters to user preferences in various regions, particularly in Asia.
Here's a breakdown of MIUI's nature:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Developer | Xiaomi |
| OS Family | Android-like OS (Android-based Linux OS) |
| Source Model | Open source (Modified Android Base and Main Framework) with Proprietary components (MIUI Apps and Kits) |
| Initial Release | 16 August 2010 |
How MIUI Differs from Stock Android
While MIUI runs on Android, its user experience diverges significantly from the "stock" Android found on Google Pixel phones or Android One devices.
- User Interface: MIUI typically offers a more vibrant and often iOS-like interface, particularly in earlier versions, with no app drawer by default (though it can be enabled).
- Pre-installed Apps: Xiaomi includes a suite of its own applications, which often offer alternatives to Google's default apps.
- Feature Set: MIUI is known for its extensive list of features, including advanced privacy controls, second space, app cloning, comprehensive theme engine, and various power-saving modes.
- Optimization: Xiaomi customizes the system for its hardware, aiming for optimized performance and battery life across its range of devices.
In essence, Xiaomi takes the robust foundation of Android and builds its unique mobile experience on top of it, creating MIUI as its signature operating system.
