Xiaomi appears ready to revive a piece of audio technology history for its next-generation smartphones. According to recent reports, the upcoming Xiaomi 16 series will integrate Nokia’s OZO Audio suite, a software package once hailed as one of the most advanced solutions for immersive mobile sound. 
For users frustrated by muffled recordings from concerts, bustling streets, or windy outdoor settings, this could represent a major leap forward in capturing cleaner, more professional audio straight from a phone.
OZO Audio isn’t exactly a fresh invention. Nokia first developed it for its premium 360-degree cameras, before licensing the technology to smartphone makers such as Asus, Oppo, and OnePlus. What makes OZO stand out is its collection of smart features designed to solve real-world recording problems. The package includes “Audio Zoom,” which isolates and emphasizes a specific sound source – think a singer on stage or a speaker in a crowded room. “Audio Windscreen” intelligently reduces intrusive wind noise, a notorious issue for mobile microphones. And “3D Audio” records in a spatial, surround-like format, giving playback a natural sense of presence. Combined, these features create a toolkit that helps users produce video clips with sound quality far superior to what raw hardware microphones can usually achieve.
The strategy isn’t just about nostalgia or licensing a catchy name. Xiaomi’s move positions it in direct competition with rivals like Apple and Google, both of which have refined their own audio processing systems. Apple introduced its own form of audio zoom years ago on the iPhone, seamlessly enhancing whatever subject you zoom in on visually. Google Pixel devices, meanwhile, employ their “Speech Enhancement” mode to separate voices from noisy backgrounds. While Xiaomi may be arriving late to this particular race, OZO Audio arguably offers a more versatile set of tools, giving the company a chance to leapfrog competitors in certain scenarios.
What makes the news even more significant is that Xiaomi isn’t reserving this upgrade for future buyers only. According to the leaks, the OZO Audio suite will also be rolled out to previous flagships, including the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and the Xiaomi 15 series, through a HyperOS 3 software update. That means users who invested in high-end Xiaomi devices recently will soon enjoy pro-grade audio upgrades without buying new hardware. This retroactive support strengthens Xiaomi’s reputation for extending the lifespan and value of its flagship ecosystem, something increasingly important as buyers hold onto smartphones longer than before.
There’s no denying that Xiaomi is playing a game of catch-up in some respects, but it’s a calculated one. Video creation is one of the most powerful ways people document their lives today, and the sound quality often makes the difference between a clip that feels polished and one that feels amateurish. By pairing its already competitive camera systems with serious audio enhancements, Xiaomi is equipping content creators, vloggers, and everyday users with a more complete toolset. The timing also reflects how smartphone brands increasingly market themselves to creators, positioning phones not only as communication tools but also as production studios in your pocket.
If OZO Audio performs as advertised, Xiaomi could narrow the gap with rivals in a category that often goes overlooked until users press record. Whether it becomes a headline feature for the Xiaomi 16 series or simply a quiet upgrade for those who know where to look, the addition suggests Xiaomi understands that great video is only half the story – equally great sound has to follow.