Xiaomi’s mobile ecosystem is undergoing a significant shift with the deployment of HyperOS, the successor to its longstanding MIUI operating system. While HyperOS inherits many beloved features from MIUI, such as animation speed customization and fingerprint sensor gesture controls, one popular functionality is set for removal – background video playback.
The End of an Era: Xiaomi Removes Background Video Playback in HyperOS
Previously, Xiaomi devices offered a unique advantage. We are talking about the ability to minimize a YouTube video and continue audio playback with the screen turned off. This functionality, initially introduced in MIUI 12 and carried forward to MIUI 13, MIUI 14, and HyperOS. It effectively provided a YouTube Premium-like experience for free.
However, a recent announcement by Xiaomi indicates a change of course. Citing “compliance requirements,” the company confirmed that the ability to minimize videos and listen in the background will be removed from future updates for Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices running MIUI 12 and later versions.
This change, as Mundo Xiaomi reports, will gradually take place through upcoming updates. While the exact timeline remains undisclosed, each device model will receive its specific update at a different time.
While some users might be tempted to avoid updates to retain this feature, doing so comes at a cost. Opting out of updates leaves devices vulnerable to security breaches and deprives them of new functionalities and performance improvements included in updates. Additionally, all new Xiaomi phones will ship with the latest software. This means background video playback won’t be available on them from the outset.
Despite this apparent setback for users, there is a readily available and free alternative. Using the Xiaomi Music app, which offers built-in background playback functionality. This can effectively serve as a substitute for the now-discontinued background video playback feature.
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The current implementation allows users to continue utilizing the video minimization feature until their specific update arrives. While Xiaomi hasn’t provided a definitive timeframe for the rollout, the updates are not expected to take a significant amount of time to reach users.
Looking Ahead: Implications and Potential Reasons
The removal of background video playback on Xiaomi devices raises several questions. While the exact reasoning behind this decision remains unclear, industry speculation points towards potential pressure from Google, the owner of YouTube. By removing this functionality, Xiaomi might be complying with Google’s terms of service or seeking to avoid copyright infringement concerns.
This change also highlights the dynamic nature of the mobile software ecosystem. Manufacturers like Xiaomi must navigate a complex landscape where user preferences, platform limitations, and partnerships with other companies can influence software features.
Impact on Users and Potential Workarounds
Undoubtedly, the removal of background video playback will generate disappointment among some users who heavily use this feature. However, the existence of alternatives, such as the Xiaomi Music app, can mitigate the impact. Additionally, users can explore third-party applications that offer similar functionalities, keeping in mind potential security considerations when using such apps.
Conclusion: A Balancing Act
Xiaomi’s decision to remove background video playback represents a balancing act between user preferences, platform limitations, and potential compliance considerations. While users may need to adjust their habits or explore alternative solutions, the change underscores the constant evolution of mobile software features. Going forward, it remains to be seen how users adapt to this shift and whether Xiaomi introduces new features in the future that address the functionality gap created by this removal.
