Users of the brand's smartphones Honor often wonder about the software of their devices, especially when it comes to models released several years ago. Honor 10ibeing one of the popular mid-segment devices of its time, initially ran an operating system Android 9.0 Pie. It was a stable and functional version that ensured smooth operation of the interface EMUI 9.0 on top of the system core.
However, time passes and application requirements grow, which makes owners think about the availability of more recent versions. It is important to understand that the manufacturer's update policy has its limitations, and not every device receives support for major releases Android endlessly. For Honor 10i the situation with updates has its own nuances, which directly affect data security and compatibility with new software.
In this article we will look in detail at what version this smartphone can be updated to, how to check the current build and what to do if the automatic update does not arrive. We will also look at the features of the shell EMUI, which radically changes the perception of the standard Android, turning it into a unique ecosystem with its own management rules.
Initial version and evolution of the firmware
At the time of sales start in 2019, the smartphone came with pre-installed shell EMUI 9.0based on Android 9. This solution from Huawei (the parent company of the brand at that time) was distinguished by a high degree of customization. Users did not see the classic application menu in the style of "stock" Android, but interacted with the system where all the shortcuts were on the desktops.
Over time, the manufacturer released an update that raised the software version to EMUI 10.0. This was a significant development as the new skin brought visual changes, a dark theme, and improved gesture controls. The basis for this update was Android 10, which added important privacy features and improved work with application permissions.
⚠️ Attention: The update to EMUI 10 on Honor 10i may not have arrived to all users at the same time. In some regions, rollout (gradual distribution) was delayed for several months due to geopolitical changes and changes in service providers.
It is worth noting that the transition from one major version to another was often accompanied by a change in the build number. You can check the relevance in the settings, but there is no official provision for further upgrades of the system kernel version from the manufacturer, which is standard practice for devices in this price segment of that period.
How to check the current version of Android
To find out exactly what software is installed on your device right now, you do not need to install third-party utilities. All necessary information is hidden in the system menu. It is enough to perform a simple sequence of actions that will take no more than a minute.
Go to the main menu and find the icon Settings. Scroll down the list of options to the very end and select System. In the menu that opens, click on section Software update. The system will automatically contact the server and show the current version, as well as the presence of new packages.
- 📱 The update screen displays the version number EMUI and version Android small font under the main heading.
- 🔄 Button
Check for updatesallows you to initiate a search for new firmware manually if it has not arrived automatically. - 📄 The build number and date of the last security update.
If you want to see more technical information, such as the kernel number or compilation date, you can use the section About the phone. There, in the item EMUI version, sometimes additional information is hidden, accessible by tap. However, for the average user, the data from the update menu is enough to understand the relevance of the system.
Before checking for updates, make sure that the smartphone is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid costs for mobile traffic, since update packages can weigh several gigabytes.
The system update process and important nuances
Updating the operating system is a critical process that requires preparation. Incorrect actions may result in data loss or unstable operation of the device. Before you start downloading and installing a new version Android or security patch, you need to perform a number of preparatory steps.
☑️ Preparing to update Honor 10i
First make sure that there is enough free space on the internal storage. The system requires space to unpack the archive with the firmware before installation. If memory is low, delete unnecessary video files or transfer them to a memory card. It is also extremely important to have a good battery charge, since turning off the power while recording system partitions can “brick” the phone.
The installation process is as follows: after downloading the file, the system will prompt you to reboot. The screen will go dark, the logo Honor and a progress bar will appear. At this moment strictly prohibited press buttons or try to turn off the device. The process may take from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the memory speed and the amount of changes.
⚠️ Attention: If the update is stuck at the 99% stage for more than 40 minutes, do not panic immediately. Sometimes the system performs background optimization of applications. However, if the phone is completely turned off and does not respond to buttons, a forced reboot or flashing via PC will be required.
After successful installation, the smartphone will boot into the updated system. The first few minutes may feel a little slower than usual as the system indexes files and optimizes databases. This is a normal phenomenon that goes away on its own after a short period of use.
What to do if the update is not found?
If the server does not see updates, try clearing the cache of the "Software Update" application. Go to Settings → Applications → Show system processes → Software update → Memory → Reset. You can also use the HiSuite application on your computer to search for firmware.
Features of the EMUI shell based on Android
Users switching from other brands are often surprised by the absence of the usual application menu. The shell EMUIinstalled on Honor 10ifollows a different philosophy from pure Android. There is no separate button to call up a list of all apps; instead, all icons are located directly on the desktop, as in operating systems iOS.
Gesture control in EMUI 10 is implemented very conveniently. A swipe from the bottom edge of the screen returns you to the desktop, a delayed swipe opens multitasking, and a swipe from the side edges replaces the "Back" button. This allows you to use the screen at full height, hiding the navigation buttons. You can set the sensitivity and area of gesture activation in the menu System → Navigation.
Another important feature is the function App Twin (Application clone). It allows you to launch two copies of the same messenger, for example WhatsApp or Telegram, with different accounts. This is implemented at the system level without the need to install third-party clones, which has a positive effect on power consumption and security.
| Function | Description | Where to find it in the menu |
|---|---|---|
| Simple mode | Increases font and icons for older people | Settings → System and updates → Simple mode |
| Digital balance | Application usage time control | Settings → Digital balance |
| Eye protection | Blue light filter for visual comfort | Settings → Screen and brightness → Eye protection |
| Smart unlock | Leaving the screen turned on when you look at it | Settings → Biometrics → Face Unlock |
Despite the external differences, under the hood remains the same Android, which guarantees compatibility with the vast majority of applications from the store Google Play. However, please note that some Google features may operate with restrictions depending on the firmware release date and regional settings.
The EMUI shell significantly expands the capabilities of standard Android, adding functions of application cloning, deep interface customization and energy saving, but requires getting used to the lack of an application menu.
Optimization and solving performance problems
Over time, any operating system, including Android based EMUImay start to work slower. This is due to cache accumulation, memory fragmentation, and the burden of application updates. For Honor 10i there are built-in tools that help maintain high speed without installing "cleaners".
In the application Phone Manager (or Phone Manager) an optimization function is available with one click. It closes background processes, cleans temporary files, and scans the system for viruses. Regular use of this feature, at least once a week, helps maintain a responsive interface.
- 🗑️ Regularly clear the cache of heavy applications such as social networks and browsers through storage settings.
- 🚫 Delete unused widgets from desktops, as they consume RAM even in the background.
- ⚡ Turn off automatic application updates at night if you notice the device heating up in the morning.
If your smartphone starts to slow down a lot after updating to EMUI 10, you should check the animation settings. In developer mode, you can reduce the animation scale of windows, transitions, and animator duration to 0.5x. This will visually speed up the system, making transitions between screens sharper and faster.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use third-party applications to “speed up” or “cool” the processor from unverified sources. They often contain advertising and themselves load the system, worsening the situation instead of solving the problem.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to install Android 11 or 12 on Honor 10i officially?
No, the manufacturer has not released official updates to versions of Android 11 and 12 for this models. The maximum official version is Android 10 with the EMUI 10 shell. Attempts to install newer versions through custom firmware can lead to loss of warranty and unstable operation.
Why are notifications not received from Google services?
In new versions of EMUI, the system may aggressively close background applications to save energy. Go to the battery settings, find the application you need and set the operating mode to “Run automatically” or add it to protected applications.
How to return the application menu as on pure Android?
In the desktop settings (long press on an empty area of the screen → Desktop options) you can select the “Classic” style. However, on some versions of EMUI this feature may be hidden or unavailable, then you will need to install a third-party launcher.
Is it safe to update if the phone is no longer new?
Yes, security updates are important to protect your data. However, if the battery is very worn out, make sure that it holds a charge of at least 50-60% before starting the process to avoid sudden shutdown while writing the firmware.