Users of brand smartphones Meizu often encounter confusion when determining the actual version of the operating system. The shell Flyme 6, released in 2017, brought many visual changes and new functions, but hid different versions of the core Android. This caused bewilderment: why does a new application work on one device, but not on another with the same shell?
The answer lies in the policy of the manufacturing company, which adapted the software for various hardware platforms. In this article, we will analyze in detail which version Android is the basis of Flyme 6 on popular models, and we will explain how to check this data yourself without installing third-party software.
Understanding this difference is critical for installing compatible applications and assessing the security of the device. Let's dive into the technical details so that you know exactly what kind of system you are dealing with.
Technical features of the Flyme 6 shell
The shell Flyme OS has always been distinguished by a deep redesign of the standard interface Android. In the sixth version, the developers relied on minimalism, flat design and new control gestures. However, despite the uniform style, the “engine” of the system could differ radically.
The bulk of devices released with Flyme 6 pre-installed were based on Android 6.0 Marshmallow. It was stable, but no longer the latest version at the time of the shell's release. Some flagship models received a more advanced base.
It is worth noting that the visual part of Flyme 6 often masked the old menu elements characteristic of previous versions of Android. The user might think that the system is more modern than it actually is.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the shell version number (Flyme 6.x.x) with the Android kernel version. The number 6 in the name refers only to the Meizu interface, and not to the Google Android version.
To see the real version of Android, go to settings, find the "About phone" item and quickly tap 7 times on the build number to activate the developer menu if the information is hidden.
Distribution Android versions by Meizu models
The situation with software versions in Meizu during that period was heterogeneous. The company released updates in waves, and different lines of smartphones received different software, even with the same version of Flyme.
The budget segment most often remained at the base Android 6.0. This made it possible to ensure stable operation on weak hardware, but limited the possibilities of multitasking and background running of applications. The flagships of the series Pro sometimes received a database Android 7.0 Nougat.
Below is a table that will help you navigate according to models and software versions. The data is based on the official Global and CN firmware released during the heyday of Flyme 6.
| Smartphone model | Flyme version | Basic Android version | Update status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meizu M6 | Flyme 6.1.x | Android 7.0 | Official completed |
| Meizu M6 Note | Flyme 6.1.x | Android 7.1 | Officially completed |
| Meizu Pro 7 | Flyme 6.1.x | Android 7.0 | Officially completed |
| Meizu U10 / U20 | Flyme 5/6 | Android 5.1 / 6.0 | Outdated |
| Meizu MX6 | Flyme 5/6 | Android 6.0 | Not supported |
As can be seen from the table, even within the same generation of firmware the system kernel could differ. For example, Meizu M6 Note turned out to be one of the few state employees who received the Android 7.1 base, which extended its life a year longer than its competitors.
How can I find out exactly the version of the system on device
If you are holding a smartphone in your hands and doubt which system is running the shell, there is no need to guess. Built-in diagnostic tools will give an accurate answer in a few seconds.
Go to the menu Settings and scroll the list to the very bottom. Find the item About phone. The Flyme version will be indicated there, but to see the Android version, you need to click on the corresponding line or expand additional information.
In some cases, especially on custom firmware or older builds, this information may be hidden. Then the menu for developers will help.
- 📱 Go to
Settings→About phone. - 🔨 Find the item
Build numberand quickly click on it 7 times in a row. - 🔓 A notification “You have become a developer” will appear.
- ⚙️ Go back, go to the new item
For developersand check the system information.
This method is universal for all devices based on Android, regardless of the installed shell. It allows you to see not only the OS version, but also the level of the security patch, which is important for assessing vulnerabilities.
☑️ Checking the software version
Problems of application compatibility on older versions
Owning a smartphone with a base Android 6.0 or 7.0 in current realities imposes certain restrictions. Developers of popular software are gradually abandoning support for outdated APIs.
Many banking applications, instant messengers and games require a minimum Android 8.0 or even 10.0. When you try to install from Google Play you may see the message “Incompatible with your device.”
This is not due to processor power, but rather to software limitations. New security and memory management features introduced in the latest versions of Android are not available on older kernels.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to install older versions of applications (APK files) from unverified sources to bypass restrictions. This creates a critical gap in the security of your personal data.
If a critical application is not installed, the only legal solution is to use web versions of services through a browser or replace the device with a more modern one.
Why do applications crash on older Androids?
Modern applications use new libraries and encryption methods that are not physically present in the Android 6.0 kernel. An attempt to run such code causes a conflict and forced closure of the app.
Update options: is it worth upgrading to Flyme 7 and higher
Many users are interested in whether it is possible to update Flyme 6 to a newer version to get the latest Android. The answer depends on the specific model of your smartphone.
Official support for most devices of the Flyme 6 era has already been discontinued. The company Meizu stopped releasing security updates and new versions of shells for models of the M, U and old Pro series.
However, some models received an update to Flyme 7 or even Flyme 8 based on Android 9. This significantly extended the life of the devices. You can check the availability of the update through the built-in update center.
Go to Settings → About phone → System update. Click the button Check for updates. If the server finds new firmware, you will be prompted to download it.
- 📥 Make sure the battery charge is higher 50% before downloading.
- 📶 Use a stable Wi-Fi connection, as the firmware image can weigh more than 1.5 GB.
- 💾 Make a backup copy of your contacts and photos, as a major update may reset your settings.
If the official update is not available, Enthusiasts often port new versions of Flyme or install pure Android via TWRP. But this requires unlocking the bootloader and carries the risk of turning the phone into a brick.
An official update is the only safe way to get a new version of Android. Custom firmware is only suitable for experienced users who are prepared for possible failures.
Frequent questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to manually install Android 10 on Meizu with Flyme 6?
Officially - no. The manufacturer has not released such updates for older models. Unofficially - theoretically possible through ports (Custom ROM), but this is a complex procedure that requires unlocking the bootloader, installing TWRP recovery and finding a compatible build. Operational stability is not guaranteed, cameras and sensors may not work correctly.
Why does it say Flyme 6 in the settings, but some applications do not work?
Most likely, your device runs on Android 6.0 or 7.0. Modern applications require newer versions of the operating system (Android 8.0+). The Flyme version number indicates only the appearance of the shell, and not the capabilities of the system core.
Is it safe to use banking applications on Flyme 6?
Using outdated versions of Android carries risks. If your device has not received security updates for several years, there may be unpatched vulnerabilities in the system. Banking applications may themselves refuse to work on such devices due to non-compliance with security requirements.
How to return the factory firmware if I installed something wrong?
To return to the stock firmware, you will need the Flyme Fix Tool utility (for MediaTek processors) or SP Flash Tool. You need to download the official firmware image for your specific model from the Meizu website, connect the phone in Download mode and flash it. All data will be deleted.