HyperOS 2.0 Rumored to Scan for Hidden Cameras, Leaked Screenshots Show

There is a rumor that Xiaomi is on the verge of releasing an update for its Android skin and has dubbed it HyperOS 2.0. According to leaked information published by XiaomiTime, the new OS could come with a special function oriented toward enhancing user privacy—hidden cameras detection.

The feature is said to be named “Camera Scan,” and it will likely use WLAN signals to discover hidden cameras nearby. A leaked screenshot reveals that there is a very basic UI that offers to provide users with a one-click option to start scanning, with the prompt underlining an improvement in privacy and personal safety.

The details of the working principle of Camera Scan are not yet disclosed, but it is assumed to base on WLAN searches—like in some open-source projects available on GitHub.

It is expected to be released in October 2024. HyperOS 2.0 will represent the first anniversary since the launch of HyperOS 1.0. Other features that the update is predicted to come with are the ones related to improving device performance, strengthening connectivity between Xiaomi devices, and increasing options for customization other than camera detection.

It was introduced for the very first time on the Xiaomi 14 series last October in China, replacing quite the established MIUI system. It entered the Indian market through the Poco X6 Pro in January 2024 and further expanded to more devices like the Poco M4 Pro, C65, and M6 by Q2 this year.

If implemented, the camera detection feature in HyperOS 2.0 would rebrand privacy-focused features in smartphone OS at a time when personal privacy and security concerns are more strongly put forth than ever. However, how effective it would turn out to be in any real-world scenario remains to be seen.

Since most of the information being given out at this time is based on leaks and rumors, interest will lie in waiting for official confirmation from Xiaomi itself regarding the specific features and functionalities with HyperOS 2.0.