Android 11 on the Xiaomi Mi A1 via Descendant XI: An interesting ROM with a few unique features

Available for multiple handsets, most of them from Xiaomi, Descendant is a ROM that comes with quite a few features that make it stand out. In addition to the Xiaomi Mi A1, the list of devices that can get Android 11 thanks to it also includes the Mi 8 Lite, Mi 9, Redmi Note 8/8T, Redmi Note 7, as well as the Lenovo Z5s. For the full list of available downloads, please check this page (no less than 43 entries). 

Regarding my experience with Descendant on the Mi A1, I must say that this ROM needs just a few touches to become perfect. There are many things to enjoy, such as the Metro music player, the Descendant Health section in Settings that includes localized COVID-19 information, the interface customization settings that I've seen for the first time (a few original clocks and heart-shaped icons, just in time for Valentine's Day), the Descendant Guardia background permissions monitor, and more. I was able to check for OTA updates, but I can't say for sure if this feature works as it should. However, I can guarantee that aptX support is in place and works like a charm.

In addition to the positives above, I should also mention that my old Xiaomi Mi A1 feels snappy and I had no stability problems with Descendant XI in control. Sadly, the capacitive buttons do not light up and Google Assistant does not seem to work as it should. Since my phone's battery is down to around 1,000 mAh capacity, I try to avoid using voice commands and I try to keep everything as light as possible.

These being said, feel free to check the screenshot gallery and video below as usual, and don't forget to share your thoughts with the rest of us. 

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