Updating the operating system is a key event for any smartphone owner, because it is the new version of Android that brings fresh features, improved security and optimization of the interface. For brand users, the transition to the eleventh version of the “green robot” was marked by the introduction of a shell, which radically changed the visual style and logic of interaction with the device. Many owners of models from previous years are still wondering whether their gadget will receive this major update or whether the manufacturer will limit support. Honor the transition to the eleventh version of the “green robot” was marked by the introduction of the shell Magic UI 4.0, which radically changed the visual style and logic of interaction with the device. Many owners of previous years' models are still wondering whether their gadget will receive this major update or whether the manufacturer will limit support.
The process of distributing the update was complex and extended over time due to the well-known geopolitical restrictions imposed on Huawei and its subsidiary brand. This led to the fact that the firmware release schedule for different regions differed significantly. Global versions Smartphones often received updates with a delay compared to their Chinese counterparts, and some models even remained on the same software version. In this article, we will analyze in detail which devices are included in the list of lucky ones, and how to understand that your phone is ready to migrate to the new platform.
It is worth understanding that receiving an update depends not only on the desire of the manufacturer, but also on technical characteristics processor and the amount of RAM. Old budget models with insufficient resources may not be able to handle the heavy shell of the new generation. Therefore, if you are the owner of a device two or three years old, it is important to check its model with the official lists so as not to have vain hopes and think about replacing the gadget in time.
Official list of supported flagship models
First of all, support for a new operating system is always provided by the flagship lines that were released in the previous year or are current at the time of announcement. In the case of Android 11 and the Magic UI 4.0 shell, priority was given to smartphones of the Honor 30 i Honor View 30series. These devices are based on powerful Kirin chipsets, which allowed engineers to easily adapt the new system code to their architecture.
The owners of the series Honor 20 were also included in the list of updated devices, although for some modifications the release took place much later. This applies to both the standard version and the Pro and Lite models, however, the firmware release dates for the Lite versions were often delayed by several months. It is important to note that the update for these phones brings not only a new interface, but also improved camera operation and energy saving algorithms.
The folding smartphone deserves special attention Honor Magic 2, which also received the honor of receiving a new OS. Despite the fact that the device's form factor is specific, the developers were able to optimize Magic UI 4.0 for easy use on a flexible screen. Users of this model were able to enjoy new navigation gestures and improved multitasking.
⚠️ Attention: The presence of a model in the list does not guarantee instant update arrival. In different countries and for different telecom operators, the release schedule may shift by weeks or even months.
Mid-range segment and budget devices on the update list
In addition to top-end devices, Honor tried to cover the mass market segment by updating the popular series Honor 9X and Honor 10X. These smartphones have become real bestsellers due to their price-performance ratio, and extending their life cycle with new software was a logical step on the part of the manufacturer. The update brought them a new design of the settings menu and improved work with notifications.
The line Honor Play 4 also received support for Android 11, which allowed players to take advantage of new game mode features and optimization of system resources for more stable FPS. However, owners of older Play series models, such as Play 3 or Play 3e, unfortunately, cannot count on this update due to hardware limitations.
In the budget segment, the situation turned out to be more ambiguous. Some models of the Honor 9A i Honor 9C series have received an update in some regions, but the Magic UI 4.0 functionality on them is often reduced compared to flagships. This is done to ensure that the system runs smoothly on less powerful hardware. If you have a budget smartphone, you should carefully monitor official notifications in the settings.
Technical features of the Magic UI 4.0 shell
The transition to Android 11 for Honor smartphones means not just changing the number in the version name, but the introduction of a completely new visual language and operating logic. The shell Magic UI 4.0 received an updated icon design, smoother transition animations and a new privacy management system. The interface has become more “airy”, with increased indents and roundings, which makes using the smartphone more pleasant tactilely and visually.
One of the key features of the new system is the “smart folder” function, which allows you to group applications and get quick access to them without having to open the full menu grid. The control center has also been redesigned, now divided into two parts: the settings switches are placed separately from the volume and brightness sliders. This decision seemed controversial to many users, but they quickly get used to it.
In terms of performance, the new firmware includes improved memory management algorithms. The system unloads background processes more aggressively, which has a positive effect on battery life, but can lead to more frequent reboots of messengers. For all functions to work correctly, it is necessary that there is enough free space on the device.
Before installing a major update, it is recommended to free up at least 5-7 GB of internal memory so that the process of unpacking files goes without errors and freezes.
How to check the availability of an update and install it
The process of checking for a new version of software on Honor smartphones is as simplified as possible and standardized. You don't need to connect your device to your computer or look for firmware on third-party resources; everything can be done directly in the phone settings menu. However, before starting the procedure, you should make sure that the Internet connection is stable and the battery has sufficient charge.
To start the test, you must perform the following sequence of actions: go to Settings, scroll to the bottom of the list and select System and updates. Next, click on the section Software update and tap on the button Search for updates. If a new version is available for your model and region, the system will prompt you to download and install it.
In some cases, the update may not arrive by air (OTA), even if the model is on the supported list. Then you can try using the application My Honor (or Support) by going to the services section and selecting the update item. This is an alternative firmware distribution channel, which sometimes works faster than the standard system updater.
☑️ Preparing for a system update
Possible problems after installing Android 11
Like any major system update, the transition to Android 11 may be accompanied by a number of temporary inconveniences. Users often report increased battery drain in the first days after installation. This is normal as the system indexes files and optimizes applications in the background. Usually the situation stabilizes within 3-5 days of active use.
Another common problem is malfunctions of individual applications that have not yet been adapted by developers to the new privacy standards of Android 11. Messenger or banking applications may request additional permissions or display notifications incorrectly. In such cases, it is recommended to check for updates for the applications themselves in the store Google Play or AppGallery.
It is also worth mentioning possible problems with the operation of the fingerprint scanner on some models. After updating, the biometric security algorithms may be reset and you will need to register your fingerprints again. If unlocking does not work correctly, try deleting old data and recording your fingers again in good lighting.
⚠️ Attention: If after the update the phone starts to get very hot or constantly reboots, try resetting it to factory settings. Don't forget to save all important photos and contacts before doing this.
Comparative table of model support by series
For ease of perception of information, we have compiled a summary table that clearly demonstrates the support status of various lines of smartphones. Please note that the “Received” status means that the stable version of the firmware has already been released globally, and the “In Development” status indicates that the update is being tested or is only available in beta.
| Smartphone series | Models | Update status | Shell version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honor 30 Series | 30, 30 Pro, 30 Pro+ | Received | Magic UI 4.0 |
| Honor View 30 | View 30, View 30 Pro | Received | Magic UI 4.0 |
| Honor 20 Series | 20, 20 Pro, 20 Lite | Received (partially) | Magic UI 4.0 |
| Honor 9X | 9X, 9X Pro | Received | Magic UI 4.0 |
| Honor Play 4 | Play 4, Play 4 Pro | Received | Magic UI 4.0 |
Most of the flagships produced in 2019-2020 were guaranteed to receive an update, while budget models from 2018 and older remained on Android 10 or 9.
Prospects for further development and Android 12
After the release of Android 11, many users naturally began to become interested in the fate of the next versions of the operating system systems. The situation with updating to Android 12 for Honor smartphones turned out to be even more difficult due to the separation of the brand and the Huawei company. New models released by the now independent Honor receive the latest versions of Android without problems, but older devices on Kirin chips often remain on version 11.
Nevertheless, the presence of Android 11 on board ensures that the smartphone remains relevant for at least another two years. This version of the system contains all the necessary features for a comfortable life: improved data protection, convenient chat bubbles and advanced access control to the microphone and camera. For most use cases, this is sufficient.
If your phone has not received the update to Android 11, this is a signal that the device is approaching the end of its life cycle. In this case, you should consider purchasing a more modern model that will receive security support and new features in the coming years. Technologies do not stand still, and the use of outdated software can become a vulnerability for your personal data.
Why did some models not receive the update?
The main reason is often a lack of RAM (less than 4 GB) or an outdated video accelerator driver, which the manufacturer cannot update due to the cessation of support from the chipset vendor.
Is it safe to install an update on the first day of release?
Although enthusiasm for new products is understandable, on the first day of release there is always a risk of discovering critical errors that were not identified in beta testing. It is wiser to wait a week or two for other users to test the firmware and report possible bugs on the forums. If no critical problems are found, you can safely update.
What to do if the update is stuck at the installation stage?
If the installation process is stuck on the logo or loading bar for more than 30 minutes, do not panic. Try performing a forced reboot by holding down the power button and volume rocker down for 10-15 seconds. In most cases, the phone will boot normally, and you can try to update again later.
Will the update delete all my data from the phone?
When you install an over-the-air (OTA) update, all your contacts, photos and apps are saved on