Xiaomi’s new smartphone is not just a gadget, but a complex device where the battery plays a key role. Many users believe that the first charge depends on the entire further life of the battery. But is this really true? Xiaomi manufacturers (including the Redmi models, POCO and flagship series) use modern lithium polymer batteries that do not require “training” like the old nickel-cadmium.
In this article, we’ll break down the myths and real-world recommendations for first-time charging, explain why some of the tips on the Internet are outdated, and give you a checklist of actions for owners of Xiaomi, Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 and other popular models. And also answer the question: what happens if you ignore all the instructions? Spoiler: nothing catastrophic, but a few simple steps will help to extend the life of the battery by 10-15%.
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Myths about the first charge: what is true of this?
The Internet is full of tips on how to “properly rock” the Xiaomi battery when you first turn on. Let’s take a look at the most common myths and see which ones are relevant for modern smartphones.
Myth 1: "You have to completely discharge and then charge 100% three times in a row." This advice is inherited from the era of nickel-cadmium batteries (1990s), which suffered from the "memory effect." Modern lithium-polymer batteries at Xiaomi (and any other brands) do not have this effect. Moreover, a full discharge to 0% is harmful to them - it reduces the battery life.
Myth 2: "The first charge should only be done with the original charger." Partly true, but not because of the mystical properties of "first charge." The original Xiaomi chargers (like the 33W MDY-12-ED) are optimized for fast charging and safety. However, if you use a certified RAM from another manufacturer (like Anker or Baseus) with Quick Charge 3.0+ or PD support, nothing will happen. The main thing is to avoid cheap "no-name" adapters.
- 🔋 Xiaomi batteries do not require “training” – they can be charged at any time, regardless of the level of charge.
- ⚡ Half-truth: Use of original ROM is preferred, but not required, if the alternative is certified.
- ❌ A full discharge-charging cycle (0–100%) will not improve capacity three times in a row, but will only create unnecessary stress for the battery.
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What Xiaomi Says: Official Recommendations
Xiaomi doesn’t publish separate “first charge” instructions, but user manuals and support forums (mi.com/service) have general battery care tips.
⚠️ Note: In Xiaomi models with fast charging support (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Redmi Note 12 Pro)+) Using unoriginal cables can cause overheating.If the phone heats up above 40°C while charging, turn it off and check the adapter.
- 📱 First inclusion: Charge your phone to a minimum of 20–30% before first use (generally Xiaomi smartphones come with 40–60% charge).
- 🔌 Use original RAM: Especially important for models with HyperCharge (120 W) or TurboCharge (67 W), where uncertified adapters can reduce charging speeds or cause crashes.
- 🌡️ Avoid extreme temperatures: Charging at temperatures below 0°C or higher than 35°C reduces battery life.
Important: In Xiaomi models with Adaptive Charging (e.g. Xiaomi 14), the system automatically limits the charge to 80% at night to reduce battery wear. This feature is included in Settings → Battery → Charging modes.
| Xiaomi model | Type of charging | Recommendations for first charging |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12 | 33 Watt Fast Charge | Charge up to 100% with original RAM, then use in the range of 20-80% to extend the service life. |
| POCO X5 Pro | 67 Watt TurboCharge | First charge at room temperature (15-25°C), avoid using your phone during the process. |
| Xiaomi 13 Lite | 67 Watt Fast Charge | Activate Adaptive Charging in the settings to automatically monitor the charge level. |
| Redmi A2 | 10 Watts Standard Charge | You can charge any certified memory (5V/2A), there are no special requirements. |
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Next articleHow to Charge Xiaomi for the First Time
If you’ve just unpacked the new Xiaomi, follow this algorithm.It’s versatile for all models, from budget Redmis to Xiaomi 14 flagships.
- Check the charge level: Turn on your phone and see the current percentage in the status bar. If it's below 20%, plug it into charging.
- Use original cable and adapter: This is especially important for fast-charging models (e.g., the POCO F5 with 67W).
- Charge to 100%: Wait for full charging without interrupting the process. In models with Adaptive Charging, this can take longer than usual.
- Disconnect from the network: After reaching 100%, let the phone work for 10-15 minutes, then disconnect the cable.
Additionally for fast charging models: If your Xiaomi supports HyperCharge (120W), it is best to charge the first charge when the screen is off – this will reduce heating.
☑️ Checklist of the first charging Xiaomi
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What happens if you ignore the recommendations?
Many users simply plug the new Xiaomi into any charger and use it “as is” and the consequences depend on the model and operating conditions:
- 🔥 Overheating: Using uncertified ROM with fast charging can cause battery to heat above 40°C, which reduces its resource by 10-20%.
- ⚡ Capacity reduction: Regular charging to 100% (especially at night) accelerates battery degradation, and after a year, capacity can drop from 5,000 mAh to 4,000 mAh.
- 🐢 Slow charging: Cheap cables may not support Quick Charge protocols or PD, Xiaomi will charge 2-3 times longer.
⚠️ Note: In Xiaomi models with Battery Health feature (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T) The system itself limits the maximum charge to 90 to 95 percent if detects frequent overheating!
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Can I use wireless charging for the first charge?
How to extend the life of the battery after the first charge?
The first charge is just the beginning. To make Xiaomi battery last longer, follow these rules:
- 📉 Keep the charge in the range of 20-80%: Regular charging up to 100% and discharging up to 0% reduces the lifespan. Turn on Adaptive Charging if you have one in your model.
- ☀️ Avoid high temperatures: Do not leave your phone in the sun or near heat sources (such as a car torpedo).°C.
- 🔄 Update: Xiaomi regularly releases updates to optimize power consumption. Check firmware relevance in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
For fast-charging models: If you’re not in a hurry, charge your phone at 50-60% power (e.g., use 18W RAM instead of 67W) to reduce heat and extend battery life.
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In Xiaomi models with Battery Saver function (for example, POCO X5), you can limit the background activity of applications, which will reduce charge consumption by 15-20%. Activated in Settings → Battery → Power Saving Mode
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Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when charging Xiaomi, and here are the most common ones:
- Using your phone while charging: Playing games or watching videos overloads the processor, causing it to overheat, especially critical for models with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (e.g. Xiaomi 13).
- Charging at night unchecked: If you leave your phone charging for 8 to 10 hours, it will constantly recharge to 100%, which is bad for the battery.
- Use of damaged cables: Worn-out wires can cause short circuits or slow charging. Check the cable for clamps and bare wires.
How to check battery status? Xiaomi has a hidden diagnostic menu. Enter the phone app code ##4636##, then select Battery Information. Health will show the current status (for example, good or replace soon).
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The most common mistake is ignoring overheating: If the Xiaomi body is hot to the touch (above 40°C), immediately turn off the charge and let it cool. Repeated overheating reduces battery life by 2-3 times.
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