Xiaomi has officially begun the global rollout of its latest operating system, HyperOS 3, for its flagship 15 Ultra smartphone. Based on Android 16, this substantial update marks a significant step forward for the device, bringing a host of new features, a refined user interface, and notably, deeper integration with Apple's ecosystem. For owners of the premium handset, this update represents the culmination of the software promises made at launch, delivering enhanced performance, security, and cross-platform functionality.
A Substantial Global Rollout Begins
The stable version of HyperOS 3, identified as build 3.0.5.0.WOAEUXM, is now reaching Xiaomi 15 Ultra units in global markets, including Europe. The update is a massive download, weighing in at approximately 8.9GB. This size underscores the comprehensive nature of the upgrade, which is a full system overhaul rather than a minor patch. As is typical with large-scale over-the-air updates, the rollout is being conducted in phases, meaning it may take several days for the notification to appear on all eligible devices. Users are advised to connect to a stable Wi-Fi network before proceeding with the download to avoid lengthy data transfers and potential interruptions.
Update Details:
- Device: Xiaomi 15 Ultra (Global/European variant)
- Update Name: HyperOS 3 (based on Android 16)
- Build Number: 3.0.5.0.WOAEUXM
- Download Size: ~8.9 GB
- Release Status: Stable, rolling out globally (phased rollout)
Visual Refinement and Performance Enhancements
At its core, HyperOS 3 delivers on Xiaomi's promise of a cleaner and more polished user experience. The update introduces a redesigned home screen grid, offering users more flexibility in app arrangement. A cleaner status bar design and, notably, unified rounded corners across the system interface contribute to a more cohesive and modern aesthetic. Beyond visuals, the update brings comprehensive performance optimizations for the device's built-in applications, aiming for smoother animations and faster load times. A new all-in-one editor simplifies personalization by allowing simultaneous adjustments to both home and lock screen wallpapers.
Breakthrough Cross-Ecosystem Connectivity
One of the most headline-grabbing features of HyperOS 3 is its unprecedented integration with the Apple ecosystem. This move significantly blurs the lines between the two platforms. Users can now mirror their Xiaomi 15 Ultra's screen directly to an iPad using a feature called Home screen+. For Mac users, the update enables opening multiple phone apps in resizable windows on the desktop, creating a seamless multi-device workflow. Perhaps most impressively, security is integrated as well; users can unlock their Xiaomi phone using the biometrics (Touch ID or Face ID) or the password from their paired iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Key New Features:
- UI & Design: Redesigned home screen grid, cleaner status bar, unified rounded corners, new all-in-one wallpaper editor.
- Apple Ecosystem Integration: Screen mirroring to iPad (Home screen+), run multiple phone apps on Mac, unlock phone using Apple device biometrics/password.
- Functionality: Enhanced HyperIsland for notifications, improved windowed multitasking, new Gallery widgets.
- Security: Refreshed privacy interface, Advanced Data Protection with post-quantum encryption.
Advanced Features and Security Upgrades
The update also enhances the device's dynamic island functionality, now dubbed "HyperIsland," providing a more detailed at-a-glance view and smoother transitions between notifications. Improved multitasking allows users to pull down on small app windows to expand them. For media management, new Gallery widgets let users pin favorite albums for quick access. On the critical front of security, HyperOS 3 introduces a refreshed interface for privacy and password management. Most significantly, it implements advanced data protection fortified with post-quantum encryption, a forward-looking security measure designed to safeguard personal data against future computational threats.
Conclusion: A Flagship Finally Maturing
The arrival of HyperOS 3 based on Android 16 is a pivotal moment for the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. While the hardware positioned it as a top-tier contender, this software update fulfills its potential, bringing it in line with the latest Android standards and adding unique, ecosystem-bridging features. The inclusion of deep Apple compatibility is a strategic and user-friendly move that sets Xiaomi apart in the Android landscape. For current owners, the wait for the latest software has been substantial, but the delivered package—with its visual polish, performance tweaks, and groundbreaking interconnectivity—appears to be comprehensive, finally aligning the software experience with the device's premium hardware stature.
