Xiaomi seeks beta testers for Mi A1 Android Oreo update

When we reviewed the Xiaomi Mi A1 in November, we said it came very close to being the perfect midrange phone. The Mi A1 is powered by stock Android, meaning it avoids one of the arguably least desirable aspects of regular Xiaomi phones (MIUI) and gets one of the most desirable of others (stock Android).

Xiaomi’s usage of stock Android also suggested that the handset would see fast updates, even though the manufacturer typically lags behind other OEMs when it comes to major Android version rollouts. And the good news is that it looks like this will be the case.

In a post in its MIUI forums, Xiaomi has asked Mi A1 smartphone owners to come forward to take part in an Android Oreo beta program. The beta is open to Mi A1 users in all regions, so long as they speak English, and they will have to submit an application to enter. This involves downloading the MIUI Forum app and providing their phone’s IMEI number.

Further, Xiaomi also says that those wishing to apply should:

• Have an interest in device testing and some knowledge of ROMs
• Be active on forum
• Be willing to discuss the beta with other members in both the QQ group and forum

Those who are accepted into the program will then have the chance to play with the Android Oreo software on their device before it rolls out officially sometime later. For those of you who are interested, the application deadline is midnight (Beijing time) on December 11; head over to MIUI.com for more information.