TL; DR
- Vivo’s Funtouch OS 16 promises major visual, functional revamp.
- It borrows from Origin OS; adds ‘Dynamic Island’ style feature.
- Internal testing underway; stable release expected late 2025.
vivo has delivered immensely on the optics front but has largely struggled to catch up with the competition on the software side. Its Funtouch OS has often felt dated and lacking in features, but that is reportedly about to change.
We can exclusively report that the next significant iteration of vivo’s global Android skin, Funtouch OS 16, is set to receive a major update thanks to our partner, Yogesh Brar. Currently, in the internal testing stages, the update promises a substantial visual and functional revamp that might finally persuade even premium buyers to choose vivo and its sub-brand iQOO.
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For years, vivo has maintained two distinct software identities: FuntouchOS for its global markets, and the often more feature-rich and visually distinct OriginOS for its home market in China. We now hear that FuntouchOS 16 is set to significantly blur these lines, borrowing heavily from Origin OS’s design language and feature set. This could mean global users will finally gain access to features previously exclusive to the Chinese market.
vivo’s Answer to Dynamic Island?
Perhaps the most eye-catching detail is the planned inclusion of a feature similar to Apple’s “Dynamic Island.” A version of this feature is already available in Origin OS. While the specifics remain unclear, the goal is likely to create a more interactive and fluid notification and status system, potentially utilizing the area around the front-facing camera cutout.
Beyond this, Funtouch OS16 also receives a significant aesthetic facelift. Expect redesigned system icons and smoother, potentially more elaborate animations throughout the user interface. These changes, combined with the Origin OS infusion, suggest that vivo aims for a more modern, cohesive, and premium software experience across its entire portfolio.
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Development and Timeline
We advise readers to be patient. Our sources indicate that FuntouchOS 16 is still in the very early stages of its development cycle. While internal testing is underway, a public beta—let alone a stable release—is not expected until late 2025.
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