Xiaomi MIUI 9 (Android 7.0 Nougat) teased in leaked screenshot

A new image has popped up on Weibo that seemingly confirms Xiaomi's MIUI 9 is in the works. Said to be based on Android 7.0 Nougat, the new skin would provide an upgrade on the Marshmallow-powered MIUI 8, which rolled out to several Xiaomi handsets in August. Unfortunately, the screenshot doesn't tell us much about what MIUI might include feature-wise, only that the version number running on the device in question is 9 6.9.23. 

A report from Tech Updates provides a run-down of the devices that could see MIUI 9, which is apparently due to arrive around December-January. This is said to include the Redmi Note 3 / 4, Redmi 2 Prime, Redmi 3 / 3S / 3A and the Redmi Pro. Elsewhere, the Mi 4s / 4c / 4i, Mi 5,

Mi Max, Mi Note (Pro) and Mi Pad 2 will also get in on the act, along with the new, Snapdragon 821-powered Mi 5s and Mi 5s Plus. 

As we've seen through myriad recent leaks, Xiaomi also has a new Mi Note 2 (or two) in the works, though it remains to be seen when the device will be ready for the general public. It's safe to assume that when it does, it too will see the MIUI 9 update -- if it's not already packing the new skin right off the bat. 

Like similar OEM launchers, Xiaomi MIUI does have its fair share of critics but conversely, many appreciate the rich customization on offer. It might've been nice to have seen a sneak preview of the new home screen along with today's leak, as a taster of the new goodies that MIUI will eventually bring. Since Xiaomi is now seemingly at testing stage, though, we probably won't have to wait long for a more substantial preview.