Updating to a new version of the operating system often becomes a decisive factor when choosing a device or a reason for upgrading the current gadget. Mobile device owners around the world are eagerly awaiting access to the latest features, security improvements and new interface designs. Android 12, codenamed Snow Cone, brought with it one of the most significant visual changes in recent years, known as Material You. smartphone will have access to the latest features, security improvements and a new interface design. Android 12, codenamed Snow Cone, brought with it one of the most significant visual changes in recent years, known as Material You.
The rollout process of this version of the OS began at the end of 2021 and continued throughout 2022, covering hundreds of models from various manufacturers. However, given the variety of hardware on the market, not every device was able to overcome the technical limitations to install new software. In this article, we will analyze in detail which models are included in the list of lucky ones, and how to understand whether it is worth waiting for an update for your specific device.
It is important to understand that the presence of a device on the support list does not always guarantee instant receipt of the firmware. Manufacturers often test the shell for months before releasing a stable version to users. Therefore, if your phone has not yet received a notification, this does not always mean that it is left without support.
Official list of Google Pixel devices
Google, as an operating system developer, traditionally provides the longest support for its branded devices. Smartphones in the line Pixel were the first to gain access to beta versions and stable builds of Android 12. For owners of these gadgets, the update became available almost immediately after the official release in October 2021.
Support applies to models released starting from 2019. This means that even three-year-old devices at the time of the update's release have full access to all features, including dynamic themes and improved widgets. The exception was the oldest models of the first and second generations, which technically could not ensure stable operation of the new interface.
The full list of supported models is as follows:
- 📱 Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (shipped immediately with Android 12)
- 📱 Pixel 5a 5G
- 📱 Pixel 5
- 📱 Pixel 4a 5G
- 📱 Pixel 4a
- 📱 Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL
- 📱 Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL
- 📱 Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
⚠️ Attention: Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones do not officially support Android 12 due to limitations of the Snapdragon 835 processor and insufficient RAM for the new system processes.
For Pixel devices, updates often come with additional exclusive features, such as improved photo processing through Google Camera and new navigation gestures. Users are advised to check for updates manually in the settings if the automatic notification has not arrived within a week after the start of the mailing.
Updating Samsung smartphones Galaxy
The South Korean giant Samsung is known for its aggressive update policy, especially in the flagship segment. The shell One UI 4.0, built on Android 12, has brought significant changes to the ergonomics of managing large screens. The company has confirmed the update for a wide range of devices, including not only the latest flagships, but also models in the mid-price segment.
Series owners Galaxy S21 received the update among the first among third-party manufacturers. However, the process is also affecting older flagships such as the S20 series and even the S10 in some regions. This demonstrates the brand’s desire to keep its devices relevant on the market for as long as possible.
List of key Samsung models that have received or are awaiting an update:
- 🚀 Galaxy S21 series (S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S21 FE)
- 🚀 Galaxy S20 series (S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S20 FE)
- 🚀 Galaxy S10 series (S10, S10+, S10e, S10 5G)
- 🚀 Galaxy Note 20 series (Note 20, Note 20 Ultra)
- 🚀 Galaxy Note 10 series (Note 10, Note 10+, Note 10 Lite)
- 🚀 Galaxy Z Fold 3, Z Fold 2, Z Fold
- 🚀 Galaxy Z Flip 3, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip
In the mid-price segment the situation is a little more complicated. Series models Galaxy A are updated selectively. For example, the popular A52 and A72 have received support, while more budget models may remain on Android 11. Always check the official statement from the manufacturer for your specific modification.
Features of One UI 4.0
The One UI 4.0 shell based on Android 12 has introduced a new color palette that automatically adjusts to the wallpaper. The quick settings panel has also been redesigned, making the switches larger and easier to press with one hand.
Xiaomi and Redmi update policy
The Chinese company Xiaomi uses its own shell MIUI 13, which is based on Android 12. Xiaomi's approach to updates often causes mixed feelings among users: on the one hand, they update even quite old devices, on the other hand, the timing of firmware releases can be very delayed compared to global releases.
Flagship models based on processors Snapdragon 888 and Snapdragon 870 received priority in the update queue. This is due to the fact that the new security and privacy features in Android 12 require certain hardware capabilities to work correctly without interface brakes.
Among the Xiaomi devices confirmed to receive MIUI 13 (Android 12):
- 🔥 Xiaomi Mi 11 (all versions: Ultra, Pro, Lite)
- 🔥 Xiaomi Mi 10 (all versions: Pro, Ultra, Lite, 10T)
- 🔥 Xiaomi Mi Mix 4
- 🔥 Redmi K40 / Xiaomi Mi 11i
- 🔥 Redmi Note 10 Pro and Pro Max
- 🔥 POCO F3 and POCO X3 Pro
⚠️ Attention: Some budget Redmi and POCO models may receive MIUI 13 update, but it will be based on Android 11, not Android 12. Always check the Android version in the system information before installation.
Users of Xiaomi devices should be prepared for the fact that the global version of the firmware may be released several months after the Chinese release. For those who don't want to wait, there is the option of manual installation via Recovery mode, but this requires certain technical skills.
Before updating MIUI, be sure to make a full backup of your data via the built-in "Mi Cloud" application or copy the files to your computer, as the flashing process sometimes leads to a factory reset.
OnePlus, Oppo and Realme smartphones
Brands included in the BBK Electronics ecosystem demonstrate a high speed of adaptation of new software. OnePlus, known for its speed of updates, released the shell OxygenOS 12 for its flagships almost simultaneously with the release of pure Android 12. This was made possible thanks to close integration with the Google codebase.
OnePlus models, starting with the 6th series, received support for the new OS. This is an impressive result considering that the OnePlus 6 phone was already more than three years old when the update was released. Users note that the new interface has become smoother, although it has lost some of its uniqueness, moving closer to the ColorOS design from Oppo.
Oppo and Realme devices are also being actively updated. The line Find X i GT received the ColorOS 12 / Realme UI 3.0 shell. The table below shows data on the status of updates for popular models of these brands:
| Brand | Model | Shell version | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus | OnePlus 9 / 9 Pro | OxygenOS 12 | Stable |
| OnePlus | OnePlus 8 / 8T | OxygenOS 12 | Stable |
| Oppo | Find X3 Pro | ColorOS 12 | Stable |
| Realme | Realme GT | Realme UI 3.0 | Stable |
| Realme | Realme 8 Pro | Realme UI 3.0 | In development |
Owners of these devices should pay attention to changes in notifications and privacy management. The new system of access rights has become more strict, which may require additional adjustment of permissions for familiar applications after the first launch.
OnePlus and Realme smartphones received some of the most stable versions of Android 12 thanks to code optimization for specific hardware, which ensured high smooth operation of the interface.
How to check the availability of the update manually
It often happens so that the OTA notification (Update Over The Air) does not arrive on time due to regional peculiarities or the load on the manufacturer’s servers. In this case, you should not panic and look for firmware on dubious resources. All you need to do is check for an update through the system menu.
To do this, you need to go to the settings of your device. The path may differ slightly depending on the brand, but the logic remains the same. You need to find the section responsible for information about the phone and system parameters.
The standard algorithm of actions looks like this:
- Open the application
Settings. - Scroll down to the item
About phoneorSystem. - Find the line
Software updateorVersion MIUI / One UI. - Press the button
Check for updates.
If the server finds an available version for your serial number, the download will begin. Make sure that at this moment the phone is connected to a Wi-Fi network and the battery level is at least 50%. Interrupting the boot process due to low battery can lead to critical system errors.
☑️ Ready for update
In some cases, especially on custom firmware or devices imported from other regions (gray import), automatic verification may not work. Then the user has to contact the official support forums to download the full firmware image.
New features and changes in Android 12
Is it worth updating? This question worries many users, especially those whose devices work stably on the old version. Android 12 brought not only cosmetic changes, but also deep system improvements that affect everyday use.
One of the main features was the function Privacy Dashboard (Privacy Panel). Now in one place you can see which applications and when accessed the microphone, camera or geolocation. This gives the user unprecedented control over their data.
Also worth noting is improved clipboard management. The system now notifies you every time an application reads data from the buffer and allows you to allow access only one time. This effectively combats spyware viruses trying to steal passwords or card numbers.
⚠️ Attention: After updating to Android 12, some older applications may not work correctly due to stricter security policies. If a critical application stops launching, check its compatibility on Google Play.
The visual component has also undergone changes. The system's color palette is now generated automatically based on the colors of your wallpaper. This creates a harmonious and cohesive look of the interface, extending to the settings menu, notification panel and even some elements of third-party applications.
What is Material You?
Material You is a new design language from Google. It makes the interface more adaptive and personalized. The buttons become larger, the animations are smoother, and the colors are more pleasing to the eye, adapting to the user’s mood.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I roll back to Android 11 if I don’t like the new version?
In most cases, an official rollback (downgrade) impossible without complete data loss and bootloader unlocking. Manufacturers block the ability to install an old version over a new one for security reasons. If you decide to go back, you will have to do a complete reset of the device (Hard Reset), which will delete all photos and contacts.
Will Android 12 speed up the operation of an old smartphone?
On modern processors (released after 2019), the system often becomes smoother due to optimization of animations. However, on devices with 4GB of RAM or less, the system may experience slower performance due to increased resource requirements. It is recommended to evaluate the capabilities of your hardware before upgrading.
Will banking applications work after the update?
Yes, all certified banking applications continue to work correctly. Android 12 has undergone rigorous testing to ensure it meets security standards. Problems can only arise with applications that have not been updated by developers for a long time and do not support new system APIs.
How much space does the update to Android 12 take?
The size of an OTA update is usually from 2 to 4 GB, depending on the model and manufacturer. Installation requires an additional 5-6 GB of free internal memory. It is recommended to clear the cache and delete unnecessary files before starting the procedure.
Why is my phone not receiving an update, although the model is on the list?
Updates are distributed in waves. Users in certain regions or with specific carriers receive them first. Also, the delay may be due to the fact that the manufacturer discovered a critical bug and suspended the mailing for improvement. Wait 1-2 weeks and check the settings again.