There's no denying that ColorOS 16 and OxygenOS 16 were some of the most feature-rich Android 16-based releases in 2025. Now, roughly six months later, Oppo is gearing up to build on that foundation with the ColorOS 16.1 update. The upcoming release promises meaningful quality-of-life upgrades, UI refinements and enhancements to some of its most popular existing features.
Oppo Could Take Inspiration from Samsung's Now Bar
The official ColorOS Weibo handle posted a new video showcasing all the new features coming to the next ColorOS 16.1 software update. Based on the video, the upcoming release will revamp Live Activities and bring a brand-new iOS-like lock-screen media player experience.
The video that Oppo posted starts with lock screen notifications all being brought under the new Live Activities umbrella, with the most recent live activity (mini player) running on top. Tapping on it will expand the mini-player into an expanded player that occupies the entirety of the display. This appears to be the new lock screen player. The artwork is seen separated from the player itself and the mini player at the bottom now appears to have the ability to view lyrics right on the lock screen.
Additionally, with ColorOS 16.1, stacked notifications are seen neatly tucked into the Now Bar-like pill at the bottom. For those unaware, Live Activities on ColorOS 16 are currently embedded around the punch hole cutout at the top.
The video also confirms that the new Live Activities will support showing ongoing Calls, voice recorder, timer, flashlight and maps. Oppo reveals that the release (most likely ColorOS 16.1) will also come with new AI features, smoother animations and quality-of-life improvements.
That said, Oppo has confirmed the ColorOS 16.1 release date for April 16, 2026. We also know that the Oppo Find X9s Pro and Find X9 Ultra, launching on April 21, 2026, will be the first phones to run the update out of the box. More information about the release should be revealed as we inch closer to launch, so stay tuned.
