Vivo and its sub-brand iQOO may be preparing a major software change for their smartphones in India. According to recent leaks, the companies are likely to move away from Funtouch OS, their long-standing Android skin for global markets, and adopt Origin OS, which until now has largely remained exclusive to China.
The shift could begin as soon as the launch of the upcoming Vivo X300 series, with other premium models like the Vivo V60 also expected to follow.
Why the Change Matters
Funtouch OS has often been criticized for feeling less refined compared to rivals like Samsung’s One UI or Xiaomi’s HyperOS. Origin OS, on the other hand, is regarded as sleeker, more visually polished, and packed with smarter features.
By unifying their software experience across regions, Vivo can offer users in India the same interface as its Chinese market, streamlining development and updates while improving the user experience.
Possible Benefits for Users
If the transition goes through, Indian users may notice smoother animations, more customization options, and tighter integration of AI-powered tools. Origin OS is also expected to bring a more modern design language that could give Vivo and iQOO phones an edge over competitors. For new buyers, this change could make the devices feel more premium out of the box.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the potential, the switch is not without risks. Vivo must ensure that Origin OS in India fully supports Google services, local apps, and regional languages — areas where Chinese versions of the OS differ significantly. Performance optimization will also be key, as heavy animations and features could strain mid-range or older devices. Any misstep in localization or update rollout could lead to user frustration.
While Vivo has not officially confirmed the move for India, the growing number of leaks suggests that change is on the horizon. The most likely rollout will begin with flagship models before extending to other lineups.
The global debut of Origin OS 6, scheduled for October 2025, will be an important milestone to watch. If Vivo successfully balances performance, localization, and user expectations, this shift could mark a new chapter in the company’s software strategy for India.
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