Did Apple Copy Xiaomi? Unpacking 7 iOS 26 Features That Look Familiar!

In the ever-evolving tech world, the line between "copying" and "inspiration" is often blurred. A brand introduces an innovative feature, and before you know it, similar functionalities appear across competitors' products. Recently, with the unveiling of Apple's new iOS 26, this debate has flared up once again. Numerous users and tech experts online are claiming that Apple's latest mobile operating system incorporates several features that Xiaomi (through its HyperOS and MIUI interfaces) has already introduced.

Is it true that Apple, traditionally seen as a pioneer of innovation, is now taking significant cues from other brands? Let's dive into those 7 specific iOS 26 features that are alleged to have been "copied" or heavily "inspired" by Xiaomi.

These are the 7 features which are like Xiaomi 

1. AI-Powered Visual Search (Just Like Xiaomi's XiaoAI)

iOS 26 now brings advanced AI-powered visual search capabilities, allowing users to directly identify objects from screenshots or images and search for related information. This functionality bears a striking resemblance to Google's 'Circle to Search' and, more pointedly, Xiaomi's 'XiaoAI' features, which Xiaomi users have enjoyed for several product cycles. Apple's integration promises a more intuitive search experience for its users.

2. Lock Screen Clock Customization (Echoing HyperOS's Design)

The new iOS 26 lock screen designs, with their elongated fonts, customizable layouts, and deeper personalization options for the clock, are notably similar to what Xiaomi introduced with its first HyperOS release. This shift in Apple's design philosophy appears to adopt visual trends that have already gained significant traction in other markets, hinting at a broader influence beyond Cupertino.

3. Glass UI Elements & Translucent Overlays (A HyperOS Signature)

A distinct design shift in iOS 26 is the pervasive inclusion of glass-like, translucent UI components throughout the interface. This aesthetic directly mirrors the design language Xiaomi popularized in HyperOS, especially visible on its lock screen and within various interface elements. While Apple has played with translucency before, the current implementation feels more aligned with Xiaomi's bold visual identity.

4. Advanced SMS Filtering & Spam Blocking (Catching Up to Xiaomi)

iOS 26 is finally stepping up its game with robust SMS filtering and spam blocking capabilities. This brings Apple's messaging platform closer to the long-standing solutions offered by Xiaomi, which has incorporated effective spam management (both via Google Messages integration and its proprietary systems in China) for years. This feature is a welcome addition for iOS users, enhancing privacy and reducing digital clutter.

5. AI-Powered Call Screening and Caller Identification (Siri Meets XiaoAI)

The updated Siri in iOS 26 now offers advanced call screening features, allowing users to get a live transcript of incoming calls before deciding to answer. This mirrors the 'XiaoAI' functionality available to Xiaomi customers, enabling smarter call management without direct interaction. It's a leap forward in convenience and privacy for iPhone users.

6. Gallery App Redesign with New Navigation (Xiaomi's Influence on UX)

The redesigned Gallery app interface in iOS 26 now sports a bottom navigation bar and floating action buttons, simplifying access to common functions. This specific layout and user experience (UX) approach show a clear influence from HyperOS, where Xiaomi has optimized its gallery app for better usability. While Apple adds its own polish, the structural resemblance is hard to ignore.

7. Option to Hide App Names (A Minimalist Touch from MIUI)

iOS 26 introduces an option to hide app names, allowing users to achieve a cleaner, more minimalist home screen aesthetic. This is another feature that has been a staple in Xiaomi's MIUI for a considerable period, catering to users who prefer a less cluttered visual experience. Its inclusion suggests Apple is listening to broader user preferences across the mobile landscape.

Also Read: Nintendo Team Up with Flea Market Giants to Combat Switch 2

Copying or Inspiration? The Everlasting Tech Debate

In the tech industry, the exchange of ideas is a constant phenomenon. Often, one company introduces a feature, and if it proves successful, others integrate similar functionalities into their ecosystems. Labeling this as direct "copying" can be contentious, as each company implements these features with its unique spin and integration into its own OS.

However, the distinct similarities between these iOS 26 changes and existing features in Xiaomi's HyperOS and MIUI are undeniable. It suggests that Apple is not averse to adopting successful concepts from other players to enhance its own user experience. Ultimately, this trend is good news for consumers, who will likely benefit from more advanced and customizable features across their devices.

What do you think about this debate? Has Apple truly "copied" Xiaomi, or is it simply a healthy part of competitive innovation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!