Smartphone users Honor often encounter confusion when updating the firmware, especially when the logo appears on the screen EMUI 12. A logical question arises: what version Android is hidden under this shell and have the devices switched to a completely new operating system HarmonyOS? The situation is aggravated by the fact that the brand Huawei is actively implementing its own OS, while the independent Honor continues to develop the familiar interface based on the base from Google.
In this material we will analyze in detail the architecture EMUI 12installed on devices Honor. You will find out the exact kernel versions Android for different models, understand the difference between the visual style and the system basis, and also receive instructions for a safe update. It is important to understand that the appearance of the menu can change dramatically, but the familiar ecosystem will remain “under the hood.”
The main misconception is that changing the interface version number always means changing the version. Android. In fact EMUI 12 is first of all a large-scale update of the user experience, design and optimization, which can work on different versions of the base system. For owners Honor this means maintaining access to services Google Playwhich some new models of competitors lack.
Technical basis: which Android is hidden in EMUI 12
The main technical nuance that needs to be learned: EMUI 12 is not separate operating system. This is a software shell (skin) that is superimposed on top of the base OS. In the case of smartphones Honorthat were released before the separation of the companies or received an update later, the foundation remains Android. The specific kernel version depends on the device model and the release date of the update.
Most often, updating to the interface EMUI 12 on devices Honor occurs in conjunction with Android 10 or Android 11. This is due to the fact that many models that received this update initially entered the market with older versions of the system. The company's engineers adapt the new design and functions to the existing hardware, not always raising the major version of the kernel to the latest available at that time. However, there are exceptions for newer models of the series that can receive data-i="59">already on the base Android to the last one available at that time.
However, there are exceptions for newer models in the series Honor 50 or Magicwho can receive EMUI 12 already at the base Android 12. To find out exactly what version of the system you have installed, it is not enough to look only at the startup splash screen. You need to go into the deep settings of the device, where technical information about the assembly is hidden.
⚠️ Attention: Do not rely on marketing names of updates. The fact that the settings say “EMUI 12 version” does not guarantee the presence of functions specific to Android 12. Check the Android version number in the “About phone” menu.
To check the exact kernel version, follow these steps: go to Settings, scroll down to point About phone. There you will see two lines: one indicates the interface version (for example, 12.0.0), and the second indicates the version Android. It is the second line that determines compatibility with applications and system functions.
Key differences between EMUI 12 and previous versions
The transition to EMUI 12 marks a paradigm shift in interface design Honor i Huawei. If previous versions (EMUI 10, 11) tended towards strict, sometimes overloaded controls, the new shell relies on minimalism, large titles and smooth animations. This visually brings the interface closer to the concept HarmonyOS, but maintains the logic of work Android.
One of the main innovations is the control center, which is now called by swiping from the upper right corner of the screen. Previously, this area was reserved exclusively for the notification shade. Now users get quick access to brightness, volume sliders and communication module switches in a single menu. This change requires a little getting used to for those who have been using the old method for years.
The folder system has also undergone changes. Large folders have appeared that allow you to launch applications without having to open the folder itself. Just one click on the icon inside a large folder on the desktop is enough to launch the app. This saves time and makes desktop navigation more intuitive. EMUI 12 Large folders have appeared that allow you to launch applications without having to open the folder itself. Just one click on the icon inside a large folder on the desktop is enough to launch the app. This saves time and makes desktop navigation more intuitive.
- 🎨 New design: Use of rounded corners, translucent solids and improved typography for better readability.
- 🔒 Security: Improved privacy protection algorithms and more flexible settings for application permissions.
- ⚡ Performance: Optimizing RAM and speeding up the launch of heavy games and multitasking.
- 📂 Smart folders: Ability to interact with applications inside folders without opening them.
Another important change concerned privacy settings. In EMUI 12 a special privacy center has appeared, where it is clearly displayed which applications and how often access your data: microphone, camera, geolocation or clipboard. You can revoke access at any time or receive a report of suspicious activity.
If after the update the interface seems unusual to you, go to the screen settings and try changing the font size or color scheme - this will help you quickly adapt to the new style.
List of Honor models that support the update
Distribution process EMUI 12 on devices Honor was uneven and depended on the sales region, as well as on the status of the company at the time the update was released. Models released after the brand separated from Huaweimay receive updates with a delay or have a slightly different interface, closer to Magic UI, although the technical base often remains common.
Mainly, flagship series of past years, such as Honor 30, Honor View 30, as well as popular mid-budget models received updates series Honor 20 i Honor 9X. Owners of older devices, such as Honor 8 or Honor 9, most likely settled on versions EMUI 9 or 10, since the technical limit of their processors does not allow comfortable work with new heavy shells.
Below There is a table with approximate correspondence between models and versions of the system. Please note that in different regions (Europe, Russia, China, Global version), the numbering of assemblies and release dates for updates may differ.
| Smartphone model | Basic version of Android | Shell version | Update status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honor 30 Pro+ | Android 10 | EMUI 12 | Available |
| Honor View 30 | Android 10 | EMUI 12 | Available |
| Honor 20 / 20 Pro | Android 10 | EMUI 12 | Available |
| Honor 9X | Android 10 | EMUI 12 | Available |
| Honor Magic 3 | Android 11/12 | Magic UI 5/6 | Newer EMUI 12 |
It is worth noting that some models series Honor 50 and newer use the shell Magic UI, which is the successor to EMUI, but has its own unique features and logos. Despite the visual differences, their functional content and setup methods are almost identical.
Why do some phones have EMUI 12 and others have Magic UI?
After the sale of the Honor brand to Huawei, the new independent company Honor began to develop its own brand of interface - Magic UI. However, the technical base remained common with Huawei EMUI for a long time. Therefore, functionally these are “twin brothers”, but with different names and logos.
Instructions for updating to the latest version
Updating software is a critical procedure for the security and stability of a smartphone. Before starting the process, make sure that your device is charged at least 50-60%, or better yet, connect it to a charger. Losing power while writing system partitions can cause serious boot errors.
There are two main ways to check for updates. The easiest way is through the standard settings menu. Open Settings, select section System and updates, then click Software update. Click the button Search for updates. If a new version EMUI 12 is available for your model, the system will offer to download and install it.
If the update is not found through the settings, but you are sure that it should be, use the proprietary application My Huawei (previously Support). In this application, updates often appear before they are massively sent out over the air. Go to the application, go to the tab Update and click Check for updates.
☑️ Checklist before updating
In rare cases when automatic updating does not works, you can use the manual update method via a memory card or internal storage. To do this, you need to download the full firmware package (dload) from the official website, place it in the root memory folder dload and start the installation through a special code in the dialer or a key combination when the phone is turned off.
Code for local update: ##2846579##After entering this code you will be taken to the engineering menu, where you can select item Software Upgrade -> Sdcard Upgrade. This method requires caution: download firmware only from trusted sources that strictly corresponds to your model and region (CUST code).
⚠️ Attention: When updating manually via a memory card, all data on the device may be deleted if you choose a hard reset. Be sure to make a backup copy of your contacts and photos before starting the procedure.
Possible problems after installing EMUI 12
Like any large-scale system update, the transition to EMUI 12 may be accompanied by temporary inconveniences. Users often report increased battery drain in the first 2-3 days after installation. This is normal: the system performs background file indexing, application optimization, and cache rebuilding.
If the phone starts to get very hot or quickly discharges a week after the update, the problem may lie in a conflict between old data and the new system. In this case, it is recommended to clear the system application cache or, as a last resort, perform a factory reset. Before resetting, do not forget to save all important data to the cloud or to your computer.
Another common problem is the incorrect operation of notifications from instant messengers. New energy-saving algorithms can aggressively “kill” background processes. To avoid this, you need to go to the battery settings, find the problematic application and allow it to run in the background. EMUI 12 can aggressively “kill” background processes. To avoid this, you need to go to the battery settings, find the problematic application and allow it to run in the background.
- 🔋 Fast discharge: Usually goes away on its own after 3-4 days of active use.
- 📉 Interface lags: Can occur due to unoptimized third-party launchers or widgets.
- 🔔 Skipping notifications: Solved by setting up auto-start and work in the background for specific applications.
It is also worth mentioning the compatibility of banking applications. In rare cases, after a system update, services Google Pay (now Google Wallet) may require re-linking cards or checking the security of the device. This is due to the update of security certificates in the new version Android.
Most problems after the update are temporary and related to background system optimization. Don’t panic and give the phone a couple of days to “warm up.”
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to roll back from EMUI 12 to an older version?
Technically it is possible, but the process is complex and risky. You will need a app Huawei HiSuite on your computer and a special function "System Recovery". However, if you roll back the version, all data from the phone will be permanently deleted. In addition, old firmware versions may contain security vulnerabilities.
Will Google Pay work on Honor after the update?
Yes, smartphones Honorthat received EMUI 12retain full support for services Google, including Google Play Market and contactless payment Google Pay (if you have NFC and a certified device). This is the main difference from new Huawei phones, where Google services are absent.
Why am I not receiving the EMUI 12 update?
Updates come in waves. The mailing list may not have started yet for your specific model in your region. Also check if you have custom firmware installed or if the bootloader is unlocked - in such cases, official updates may not arrive over the air.
Is EMUI 12 on Honor different from the version on Huawei?
Visually and functionally they are almost 95% identical. The main difference is the presence of services Google Mobile Services (GMS) on Honor and their absence on modern ones Huawei. Pre-installed applications and logos in the menu may also differ.