Xiaomi is rolling out a major OS update, MIUI6, almost identical to Apple's iOS7 software for its smartphones.
China's largest smartphone maker is thumbing its nose at Apple again, with a software update similar to the Cupertino tech giant's design. The MIUI 6, Xiaomi's latest software that will be rolled out with the company's Android smartphones soon, features a revamped interface almost identical to Apple's iOS7.
The Chinese smartphone company has drawn a lot of attention for its smartphones and tablets with iPhone and iPad-like designs. Now, with a similar UI inside, consumers will have a better experience of the Android-based Apple-like devices.
The MIUI 6 features square app icons with rounded corners. The new software traded the app drawer by placing all icons on the home screen. Liliputing listed some new features, including the ability to identify calls from unknown numbers, support for gestures, rearrangement of home screen icons and a notification panel with access to music controls and other functions.
"We believe that it takes more than just good features to create a beautiful design," Xiaomi explained on its MIUI 6 introduction page. "From orderly workflows, clear hierarchies and fluent responses, we believe that good design exists in every tap, drag and pinch you make. Natural and intuitive, just the way it should be. This is MIUI 6. It's visually stunning, stunningly simple. It's the start of a new chapter."
Users can also swipe down to access the notification panel from any screen, including lock screen. Floating notifications appear when a user is accessing the camera or playing a game to avoid interruption.
MI Store opens access to over 5,000 unique themes to customize the smartphone. The new custom OS will be pre-loaded on new Xiaomi phones and will be available for download to other Android devices, too.
With more than 70 million users worldwide, the company has a reputable image in the smartphone industry. Xiaomi is planning to enter the US market as early as next year, the Next Web reports.
