Update (8/30/19 @ 12:10 PM ET): Xiaomi is now recruiting testers for MIUI 10 (Android 10) on the Redmi K20 Pro in India.
Update (8/9/19 @ 9:35 AM ET): Xiaomi has begun rolling out the Android Q open beta to the Xiaomi Mi 9 and Redmi K20 Pro.
Android Q has been available for developers since a few months now, giving them a chance to try out Google's newest update to Android before it rolls out for the general public. These Beta releases gives them an opportunity to explore newly introduced APIs and test their apps against the changes, ensuring that everything works for the end user when the new update finally goes public. In a similar fashion, OEMs are also provided access to the newest version of Android to allow them to begin work on rebasing their custom UX's onto the platform update. For instance, OnePlus's recent accidental notification push occured when the OxygenOS team was working on Android Q, and we have even had our first look at Huawei's EMUI 10 based on Android Q thanks to a pre-release build. Now, Xiaomi has begun recruiting beta testers for trying out MIUI based on Android Q on the Xiaomi Mi 9.
Unlike the recruitment for the Poco F1's Android Q update wherein it was not immediately clear whether it would be a MIUI update or a Developer Preview update, the Mi 9 recruitment announcement specifically mentions that the recruitment is for a MIUI update on the new Android version. Within the application process, Xiaomi further warns that the beta update is not recommended for users who need their device for daily use, as the update is not a stable update and installed services and applications may stop working because of undocumented bugs. The update also has some currently known bugs such as reboots after enabling one-handed mode, random force closures for camera, and unresponsive volume controls. So it is abundantly clear that the update is not intended for casual users at this stage.
Xiaomi plans to roll out stable Android Q-based MIUI updates to the Xiaomi Mi 9, Mi 8, Mi Mix 3, Redmi K20 and Redmi K20 Pro and certain variants of these phones in Q4 2019. For the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 and Note 7 Pro, the update is scheduled for Q1 2020. We expect to hear more about these updates in the near future.
Source: Weibo
Update: Rolling Out
After taking beta testers last month for a closed beta, Xiaomi is now ready to roll out the Android Q-based MIUI open beta. The closed beta was only for the Mi 9, but now the open beta is available for the Redmi K20 Pro as well. Xiaomi says this update is for "brave teenagers." That's a rough translation that basically means only install this beta if you know the risks. Currently, only users on the Chinese ROM can install the Android Q beta.
Update 2: Redmi K20 Pro in India
Xiaomi is now looking for Redmi K20 Pro users who are willing to test MIUI 10 based on Android 10. Prospective users can fill out a Google form to apply. The application window will be open from today until September 8th. Results will then be posted on or before September 11th. Testers will get the MIUI 10 update, access to a special user group, an exclusive Android 10 medal, and the chance to attend official launches. Hit the link below to learn more and apply.
Source: Xiaomi