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The OPPO A9 2020 was a fan-favorite mid-range smartphone when it launched back in 2019. Celebrated for its massive 5000mAh battery, quad-camera setup, and solid build quality, it became a bestseller in markets like India, Indonesia, and the Middle East.
Fast forward to 2023, the question on every long-term user's mind is: Does the OPPO A9 2020 receive the ColorOS 12 update (based on Android 12)?
If you own this device, you have likely seen conflicting rumors online. Some sites claimed the update was "coming soon," while others suggested the phone had been abandoned. This article provides the definitive, research-backed answer regarding the Android 12/ColorOS 12 fate of the OPPO A9 2020.
Oppo, like most manufacturers, follows a structured update policy. The Oppo A9 2020 is excluded from ColorOS 12 for three primary technical and business reasons:
ColorOS 12 brought a visual overhaul with an "Aquamorphic" design featuring softer colors, rounded windows, and smoother animations. The standout feature was Omoji—OPPO’s version of Apple’s Memoji—which allowed 3D avatar creation. Unfortunately, this feature required higher GPU power that the Snapdragon 665 (note: the A9 2020 actually uses Snapdragon 665, not Helio) couldn't handle efficiently.
To understand why the ColorOS 12 update skipped the OPPO A9 2020, you need to look at OPPO’s tiered update strategy. Unlike flagship phones (Find X series) or upper-midrangers (Reno series), budget A-series devices typically receive:
The OPPO A9 2020 was released in September 2019. By the time ColorOS 12 launched (late 2021/early 2022), the A9 2020 was already over two years old. OPPO prioritized newer chipsets (Helio P80 in the A9 was dated) and devices with longer support windows.
It is always sad when a reliable phone stops receiving major updates, but the OPPO A9 2020 had a respectable run. It launched on Android 9 and ended on Android 11—covering over three years of feature development.
OPPO has officially discontinued software development for the A9 2020 regarding ColorOS 12.
Do not wait for the update. Do not check the "Software Update" section every day. It will never arrive. Instead, enjoy your phone for what it is: a durable, battery-centric media player and daily driver. When the security patches stop in 2024, consider moving to a newer device.
Are you disappointed about the lack of ColorOS 12 on the A9 2020? Let us know in the comments (though OPPO isn't listening to change their mind).
Disclaimer: This article reflects OPPO's official roadmap as of Q4 2023. OPPO may change policies retroactively, but historically, they have never added a device back to the list once removed.
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18;write_to_target_document1a;_XKfsae-MEYy8ptQP8LWbuQc_20;56; 0;1573;0;682; The OPPO A9 20200;67;0;d8d; Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
0;145;0;62c; did not officially receive the ColorOS 12 update. Based on Wikipedia0;4dd; and OPPO Community0;bb7;0;8cd; reports, the official software support for this device reached its end of life with ColorOS 11.1 (Android 11). 0;16;
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Status for ColorOS 12: OPPO representatives have stated that due to the age of the hardware (launched in 2019), the phone's performance cannot reliably support further major regular system upgrades like ColorOS 120;944;. 0;2a; 0;f5;0;195; Maintenance Tips for the A9 2020 0;16;
Since official updates have ceased, you can keep your device running smoothly by following these steps: 0;16;
Update Apps: Ensure all installed apps are updated via the Google Play Store to maintain security and compatibility.
Clear Cache:0;513; Periodically clear the cache of heavy apps by going to Settings > App Management > [App Name] > Storage Usage > Clear Cache. oppo a9 2020 coloros 12 update
Factory Reset: If the phone becomes sluggish, you can perform a factory reset after backing up your data to restore original performance levels.
Manual Update Checks:0;897; To confirm you have the latest available version (ColorOS 11.1), check Settings > Software Update. 0;2a;
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The Oppo A9 2020 remains one of the most popular mid-range devices the company has ever released, thanks to its massive battery and quad-camera setup. However, as the device ages, the most frequent question from users is whether it will receive the Android 12-based ColorOS 12 update.
The short answer is that the Oppo A9 2020 has officially reached its end-of-life status for major Android OS upgrades. While it was a powerhouse upon release, hardware limitations and Oppo’s standard update policy mean it is not eligible for the official ColorOS 12 rollout. The Update Roadmap and Official Status
When the Oppo A9 2020 launched, it ran on Android 9.0 Pie with ColorOS 6. Following Oppo’s typical update cycle for the A-series, the device received two major platform updates. It successfully moved to Android 10 (ColorOS 7) and eventually to Android 11 (ColorOS 11).
Oppo generally provides two years of major OS updates for its mid-range A-series phones. Since the A9 2020 has already transitioned through two generations of Android, ColorOS 11 is the final official stop. Devices eligible for ColorOS 12 generally require a minimum of the Snapdragon 665's successor or higher RAM management capabilities to ensure a smooth experience with the new UI engine. Why ColorOS 12 is Not Supported
Hardware Constraints: ColorOS 12 introduced the Infinite Design language and the Quantum Animation Engine 3.0. These features require significant GPU and CPU resources to maintain a lag-free experience. The Snapdragon 665 chipset in the A9 2020 struggles to run these modern animations without draining the battery or overheating.
Software Lifecycle: Every smartphone has a defined software support window. For the A9 2020, that window closed after the stable release of ColorOS 11.1. Pushing a heavier OS like ColorOS 12 could actually degrade the user experience rather than improve it.
Storage Partitioning: Newer versions of Android require different system partition sizes. The internal architecture of the A9 2020 was not designed to accommodate the larger system footprint of Android 12 while leaving enough space for user data and apps. What ColorOS 11 Users Are Missing
While it is disappointing to miss out on the official update, it helps to know what features were introduced in ColorOS 12 that the A9 2020 will not receive natively:
The new 3D "Acrylic" icons and cleaner UI spacing.Oppo’s version of Memojis for video calls and AOD.Enhanced privacy indicators that show when your microphone or camera is active.A more streamlined way to multitask with resizable windows. Options for Oppo A9 2020 Owners
If you are determined to get a taste of Android 12 or newer on your device, you have a few unofficial paths to explore.
Custom ROMs: The developer community sometimes creates unofficial ports of Android 12 or 13 (like Pixel Experience or LineageOS) for older devices. This requires unlocking your bootloader, which voids your warranty and can be risky if you are not tech-savvy.
Launchers and Skinning: You can mimic the look of ColorOS 12 by using third-party launchers like Nova Launcher or Lawnchair. Combined with an Android 12 icon pack, you can achieve a similar aesthetic without changing the underlying OS.
Security Maintenance: Even without ColorOS 12, ensure your device is running the latest available version of ColorOS 11. Check for any "Security Patch" updates in your settings to keep your data safe. Final Verdict
The Oppo A9 2020 will not receive the ColorOS 12 update. It currently sits on its final stable version of ColorOS 11. For users who want the latest Android features and security enhancements, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model in the Oppo Reno or A-series lineup that supports ColorOS 13 or ColorOS 14.
The A9 2020 remains a solid backup device or a great phone for basic tasks, but its journey with major software updates has officially concluded.
The OPPO A9 2020 Go to product viewer dialog for this item. did not receive an official update to ColorOS 12 (Android 12). Despite interest from the user community, the device has officially reached its "end of life" for software support. Software Update Status OPPO A9 2020 and ColorOS 12: The Full
Final Official Version: The last major update for the OPPO A9 2020 was ColorOS 11.1, based on Android 11.
Support Life Cycle: Launched in late 2019 with ColorOS 6 (Android 9), the phone received two major OS upgrades (Android 10 and Android 11).
Manufacturer Statement: OPPO Customer Service has clarified that due to the age of the model and its hardware performance (Snapdragon 665), it can no longer support newer major software upgrades like ColorOS 12. Why It Won't Receive ColorOS 12
Hardware Limitations: The Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset and 4GB/8GB RAM configurations are considered insufficient for the performance demands of newer Android versions.
Update Policy: At the time of release, A-series devices were typically promised two major Android updates, which this model has already completed. What ColorOS 12 Features Are Missing?
If you were looking for ColorOS 12, you will miss out on features such as: Android 12-14 updates - OPPO Community
The OPPO A9 2020 will not receive the ColorOS 12 update. OPPO has officially clarified that the device has reached its "end of life" for software support, meaning its hardware can no longer handle major system upgrades beyond its current stable version. Update Status Overview
Final Version: The device remains on its last officially supported version, typically ColorOS 7 (Android 10) or ColorOS 11 depending on the region.
Hardware Limitations: OPPO support has stated that because the model was launched in 2019, its hardware performance is insufficient to support the requirements of ColorOS 12 and Android 12.
Official Support: The phone is considered permanently discontinued and no longer part of any future software roadmap. ColorOS 12 Highlights (For Supported Devices)
While not available for the A9 2020, OPPO's ColorOS 12 introduced several major changes for newer models:
Infinite Design: New acrylic icons and a more spacious layout.
Privacy Features: A dedicated Privacy Dashboard and microphone/camera indicators.
Smart Sidebar 2.0: Includes "Screen Translate" powered by Google Lens for real-time translation.
Omoji: Personalized 3D avatars that track facial expressions. How to Check for Remaining Minor Updates
Although major OS upgrades have ceased, you may still receive occasional stability or security patches. To check manually: Oppo A9 (2020) - Software update - Gomibo.fr
Software updates for Android 15 and Android 14 * Swipe up to access your apps and tap Settings. * Scroll down and tap About Phone. ColorOS 12 | OPPO India
Streamline how you use your phone and focus on the things that matter. Choose the OS designed to synchronize with you. ColorOS 12, ColorOS 12 | OPPO Global
As of current records, the OPPO A9 2020 is not officially eligible for the ColorOS 12 (Android 12) update.
The device reached its "End of Life" for major software upgrades after receiving ColorOS 11 (Android 11). According to official statements from the OPPO Community, the hardware launched in 2019 can no longer support the performance requirements of newer regular software maintenance and upgrades. Checking for Available Updates
If you are currently on an older version and want to ensure you have the latest available software for your specific region: One major Android OS upgrade (The A9 2020
Standard Update Path: Go to Settings > Software Update to check for any pending security patches or minor stability fixes.
Trial Version: Sometimes "Trial Versions" are released before a wider rollout. In the Software Update menu, tap the Settings icon (gear) in the top-right corner > Trial Version to see if any are available for your IMEI. Performance Maintenance for Older Devices
Since the A9 2020 will likely remain on ColorOS 11, you can keep the device running smoothly by following these steps from OPPO Care:
Clear App Cache: Long-press an app icon > App Info > Storage Usage > Clear Cache.
Manage Background Apps: Uninstall unused apps and use the "Force Stop" feature for apps you rarely use to free up RAM.
Update Apps: Ensure all your installed applications are updated via the Google Play Store to maintain compatibility with ColorOS 11. Important Note: Avoid downloading "ColorOS 12 ROMs" for the
from unofficial third-party websites. These are often fake or unstable and can permanently "brick" your device or lead to security vulnerabilities. OPPO Software Update : Step-by Step Guide
OPPO A9 2020 will not receive the ColorOS 12 update . The device has reached the end of its official software support lifecycle, as it has already received its promised major Android upgrades. OPPO Global Community Software Status Summary Final Official Version: The device concludes its official support on ColorOS 11.1 , which is based on Android 11 Update Eligibility:
OPPO typically provides two major Android updates for its A-series devices. The A9 2020 launched with Android 9 (ColorOS 6) and has already updated to Android 10 and Android 11. Official Stance:
OPPO support has confirmed that the phone's hardware performance (Snapdragon 665) is no longer sufficient to support the requirements of newer, more intensive software like ColorOS 12 and Android 12. Performance Optimization
Since no further major updates are coming, you can maintain your device's speed by following these steps: Clear App Cache: Long-press an app icon > App Info > Storage Usage > Clear Cache Update Existing Apps: Ensure all current apps are updated via the Google Play Store to maintain security and compatibility. Check for Final Patches:
You can still check for any remaining security patches or minor stability fixes by going to Settings > Software Updates OPPO India Community Why ColorOS 12 is Not Available Requirement A9 2020 Status Android Version Android 12 Capped at Android 11 Modern efficiency Uses Snapdragon 665 (2019 era) Support Cycle 2 Major Upgrades Already completed Are you experiencing performance issues
on your current version that you're hoping an update would fix? ColorOS 12 - OPPO India Community
OPPO A9 2020 did not receive an official ColorOS 12 (Android 12) update . According to
, the device reached its final major software milestone with ColorOS 11.1 , based on Android 11. Update Status Summary Final Official Version: ColorOS 11.1 (Android 11). Support Status:
Official support for major OS upgrades has ended. OPPO representatives have noted that the hardware performance of this 2019 model is no longer sufficient to support newer regular software upgrades. Latest Security/Maintenance:
While major OS updates have stopped, the device may still receive minor security patches or maintenance fixes (like version F.09) depending on your region. How to Check for Available Updates
If you haven't yet reached ColorOS 11, you can check for the latest available software for your specific unit: Software Update
The system will automatically detect if there is a newer version (up to ColorOS 11.1) available for download and installation. Device Specifications for Reference Qualcomm Snapdragon 665. Original OS: ColorOS 6 (Android 9). Model Number: Often listed as CPH1937 or CPH1941. to make it run faster?
There are no stable, daily-driver-ready ColorOS 12 custom ROMs for the OPPO A9 2020. You might find scam websites offering "ColorOS 12 download links"—these are either malware, stock ColorOS 11 renamed, or broken builds that will brick your device.
Keep using your A9 2020. It still has a great battery and reliable cameras. Disable auto-updates for the OS (keep security patches on). The phone is still perfectly functional for calls, social media, and YouTube.
If you are considering upgrading your phone (not the software, but the physical device), here is what ColorOS 12 offers that you won't see on the A9 2020:
This is the most immediate change. ColorOS 12 ditches the bright, whimsical colors of ColorOS 7 for a more mature, "Android 12" look.
