Will the Redmi 3S Prime Receive Android Nougat Update?

The Redmi 3S Prime, a popular Android smartphone, is now facing the reality that it may not receive the long-awaited Android Nougat update. This article explores the current status of update availability for the Redmi 3S Prime and tracks potential alternatives for users who seek newer software features.

Current Status of Redmi 3S Prime Updates

The Redmi 3S Prime, despite being a prominent device in its time, is now considered too outdated for major software updates by Xiaomi. As of recent updates from Xiaomi officials, the Redmi 3S Prime is not slated to receive the official Android Nougat update. Instead, it will be receiving MIUI 9, which brings improvements to the operating system based on Android 7.0 Nougat. This update is aimed at enhancing user experience and security for the existing user base.

MIUI 9 - The Solution for Redmi 3S Prime Users

Xiaomi has announced that a beta version of MIUI 9, build MIUI 9.2.2.0, is currently being released to a select group of Redmi 3S/Prime users. This nightly build is a pre-release stage where Xiaomi collects feedback to identify any bugs or issues. Once these issues are addressed, a stable update will be released. Considering this, it is likely that the Redmi 3S Prime will eventually receive MIUI 9, which is based on Android 7.0 Nougat.

Why Not Android Nougat?

The Redmi 3S Prime, like many Android devices from its era, has limitations in hardware specifications that make it difficult to run the full Android Nougat updates. Xiaomi categorizes the Redmi 3S Prime within a group of devices that will not receive the official Nougat update. However, upgrading to MIUI 9 is a viable solution as it brings the improvements of Nougat to the existing system. Users can download and flash the developer ROM from the official Xiaomi MIUI forum for a smoother and more efficient user experience.

Alternative Solutions: Custom ROMs

For users who are familiar with custom ROMs, an alternative solution is to explore custom Android builds. Custom ROMs offer a way to install updated versions of the operating system, even for devices that would otherwise receive no official updates. If the user knows how to root and flash custom ROMs, they can look into options like LineageOS, which is known for offering stable updates for a wide range of devices. However, it’s important to note that installing custom ROMs can be risky and may void the warranty of the device.

Conclusion

While the Redmi 3S Prime may not receive an official Android Nougat update, the arrival of MIUI 9 offers a viable upgrade path for users seeking to enhance their device’s performance and features. Custom ROMs provide an additional avenue for those who are comfortable with the process, but the risks associated with them should be carefully considered. To ensure a smooth upgrade, users can follow the steps provided by Xiaomi or seek guidance from the broader community.