How to turn on reverse charging on Xiaomi Redmi 10: detailed instructions

Xiaomi Redmi 10 is a popular smartphone with support for the OTG Power Delivery function, which allows you to use the device as a portable power bank to charge other gadgets. However, many users face difficulties when trying to activate this option: somewhere there is a lack of cable, somewhere the smartphone refuses to supply current, and sometimes the function is simply absent from the menu. In this article, we will understand how to correctly enable reverse charging on Redmi 10, what nuances to consider and why it may not work.

It's important to understand that reverse charging isn't just about turning on and forgetting. It's about the firmware version, the type of thing you use. OTG-We analyzed Xiaomiโ€™s official guidelines, user reviews and technical specifications to provide the most comprehensive guide. USB And nothing happened โ€“ donโ€™t be quick to blame the manufacturer: youโ€™ve probably missed one of the key steps.

What is reverse charging and how does it work on the Redmi 10?

Reversible charging (or OTG Power Delivery) is a technology that allows a smartphone to give a charge through a USB-C port, rather than just accepting it. In the case of the Xiaomi Redmi 10, this feature is implemented at the hardware level, but requires software activation. The main difference from a conventional power bank is that there is no additional battery โ€“ energy is taken directly from the smartphone battery, which imposes restrictions on the speed and duration of charging.

Technical specifications of reversible charging on Redmi 10:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Maximum recoil power: 5W (standard USB 2.0)
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Minimum battery charge for activation: 20%
  • โšก Supported protocols: USB OTG + Power Delivery (Simplified Version)
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Compatible devices: smartphones, headphones, fitness bracelets, wireless speakers

Important: Redmi 10 does not support fast reverse charging (like the flagship Xiaomi 12 Pro models).This means that you can only charge another smartphone at base speed โ€“ about the same as from the old charger on the 1A. For comparison, the standard Redmi 10 charging from the network goes to 18W, and the reverse one is 3-4 times slower.

๐Ÿ“Š You have already tried using reverse charging on your smartphone?
Yeah, regularly.
I tried it, but it didn't work.
No, I just found out now.
I have a different model of Xiaomi.

Requirements for activation of reverse charging

Before you try to enable the feature, make sure your Redmi 10 meets the following conditions:

ParameterMinimum requirementRecommendation
MIUI versionMIUI 12.5 and higherLast stable update (check in Settings โ†’ About phone)
Battery charge20%.Optimal - 50% and above (less battery load)
Type of cableUSB-C โ†’ USB-C or USB-C โ†’ Micro-USB with OTG supportCertified cable with Power Delivery label
Smartphone temperatureLess than 40ยฐCIdeal - 20-30 ยฐ C (when overheating, the function is turned off automatically)

Pay special attention to cable, because cheap, uncertified wires often don't support power transmission in both directions, and focus on the following markings:

  • ๐Ÿ”— USB-IF Certification (logo on packaging)
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Power Delivery or Fast Charge
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Compatibility with USB OTG (specified in the characteristics)

๐Ÿ’ก

Unless you have a special one. OTG-cable, you can use charging from a laptop with a connector USB-C โ†’ USB-C. The main thing is that the cable supports data transfer, not just power.

Step-by-step: how to turn on reverse charging

Now, let's get to the practice. Follow this instruction to activate the function.

  1. Connect. OTG-port USB-C Connect the other end of the cable to the charging device (for example, with another smartphone).
  2. A notice will appear on Redmi 10 that says, "Reverse Charging Activated." If the notification doesn't appear, move on to the next step.
  3. Open Settings โ†’ Connection and Sharing โ†’ Modem Modem.
  4. Activate the Reverse Charging switch (in some versions of MIUI, this item may be called โ€œOTG Chargingโ€ or โ€œPower Shareโ€).
  5. Confirm the action in the window that appears. Charging will start automatically.

If nothing happens after the cable is connected:

  • โšก Check if the Redmi 10 has enough charge (minimum 20%).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reboot your smartphone and try again.
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Try another one. OTG-cable (preferably original from Xiaomi).
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Make sure that the charger supports the reception of energy on the USB.

Redmi 10 charge โ‰ฅ 20%|Used by certified OTG-cable|The charged device supports USB-feeding|The latest version is installed on the smartphone MIUI|The temperature of the body does not exceed 40ยฐC-->

Why Reverse Charging May Not Work

Even if you follow all the steps in the instructions, the function may not be activated.

โš ๏ธ Note: If your Redmi 10 was purchased in regions with limited firmware (e.g., in the European market), the reversible charging function can be disabled at the software level. MIUI.

Problem.Possible causeDecision
Function is not available in the settingsObsolete version of MIUI or regional restrictionsUpdate the firmware through Settings โ†’ System Update
Charging is interrupted in a few minutes.Overheating protection is activatedLet your smartphone cool in the shade for 10-15 minutes
Notification appears, but the current is not goingFaulty cable or USB-C portCheck the cable on another device or clear the port of dust
The Redmi 10 is quickly discharged.High battery loadDo not use reverse charging when the battery level is below 30%

A critical nuance: on some Redmi 10 batches (especially early 2021 releases), reverse charging is disabled at the hardware level due to problems with the power controller, and this can only be checked experimentally โ€” if after updating the firmware and changing the cable the function did not work, most likely, your device is in this group, in which case you only need to contact the service center for diagnosis.

Safety and Limitations in Reverse Charging

Using Redmi 10 as a power bank is convenient, but not harmless to the battery.

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Battery wear: Each cycle of reversing charging is equivalent 1.5-2 This means that the battery will age faster than normal discharge cycles.
  • โšก Charging speed: Maximum power โ€” 5W, what 3-4 It's a little slower than standard charging from the grid, and it might take another smartphone to fully charge. 4-5 hours.
  • ๐ŸŒก๏ธ Overheating: Simultaneous charging and discharging of the battery raises the body temperature. at 40ยฐC and above function is automatically disabled.
  • ๐Ÿ“ต Restrictions on devices: Not all gadgets support charging from OTG. For example, some iPhone models require certified accessories.

โš ๏ธ Warning: Do not use reverse charging if your Redmi 10 is connected to the charger at the same time, which creates a parasitic load on the power controller and can cause it to overheat or even fail. Always disconnect the smartphone from the socket before activating. OTG Power Delivery.

To minimize battery damage, follow these guidelines:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Do not use reversible charging more often. 1-2 weekly.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Make sure that the Redmi 10 charge does not fall below 20% during the process.
  • ๐ŸŒก๏ธ Avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures.
  • ๐Ÿ“ต Turn off the function immediately after charging another device is completed.

๐Ÿ’ก

Reverse charging is an emergency option, not a permanent solution, and it's better to have a separate power bank for regular use.

Alternative ways to charge other devices from Redmi 10

If reverse charging is not available for some reason, alternative methods can be used:

  1. Wireless charging (if supported): Some Redmi 10 models (like Redmi 10 5G) have a reverse wireless charging function. To do this, put another smartphone on the back of your device and activate the option in the settings.
  2. Use of the OTG-Adapter with charging connector: There are special adapters that allow you to connect to the USB-C Redmi 10 port standard charger and simultaneously output current to another device.
  3. Connection through USB-hub: If you have USB-hub with power, you can connect both devices to it and organize charging "bypassing" the smartphone battery.

It is important to understand that alternative methods also have limitations:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Wireless charging is even slower than wired charging (usually no more than that). 2.5W).
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ OTG-Adapters can add additional load to the port. USB-C.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Not all. USB-Hubs support simultaneous charging and data transfer.

How to check wireless charging support on Redmi 10?
To find out if your Redmi 10 model supports wireless charging, follow the following steps: 1. Go to Settings โ†’ About Phone โ†’ Full Specifications. 2. Find the section โ€œWireless Networksโ€ or โ€œAdvanced.โ€ 3. If there is a โ€œWireless Chargingโ€ or โ€œQi-compatibilityโ€ item on the list, your device supports the function. Note: Even if the option is in the settings, the charging speed will be lower than that of wired reverse charging.

Frequent User Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Analyzing the feedback of Redmi 10 owners, we identified typical errors that interfere with the correct operation of reverse charging:

  1. Using uncertified cables. Cheap wires without Power Delivery support just won't transmit current. Check the cable on another OTG device.
  2. Ignoring notifications: If a low charge or overheating warning appears on the screen, don't try to bypass it, it's battery damage protection.
  3. Simultaneous charging and discharging: Connecting Redmi 10 to the socket during reverse charging creates a conflict of power controllers.
  4. Neglect of updates: In older versions of MIUI, the function may not work at all or may not work at all.

To avoid these mistakes:

  • ๐Ÿ” Always check the port condition. USB-C for dust or damage.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Before activating reverse charging, close resource-intensive applications (games, video players).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ If the function suddenly turned off, restart the smartphone and try again.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Do not use reverse charging at a temperature below +10ยฐC - This can damage the battery.

๐Ÿ’ก

If you use reverse charging frequently, turn off Battery Optimization for system applications, which will help avoid sudden OTG shutdowns due to background energy savings.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I charge an iPhone from Redmi 10 via reverse charging?
Technically, yes, but there are nuances. iPhone requires certified charging accessories, so: Use Apple's original USB-C โ†’ Lightning cable. Some iPhone models (like iPhone 12 and newer) may have a warning about "uncertified accessory," but charging will still go. Charging speeds will be very low - around 2.5W. If the iPhone refuses to charge, try first plugging it into the Redmi 10 in normal mode (for recognition), and then activate reverse charging.
How long can I use reverse charging in a row?
The manufacturer does not set strict restrictions, but it is recommended: Do not exceed 1 hour of continuous operation in OTG Power Delivery mode; take breaks for 10-15 minutes every 30 minutes to cool the smartphone; Watch the temperature of the case - if it becomes hot, immediately turn off the function. Prolonged use (more than 2 hours) can lead to overheating of the power controller and automatic shutdown of the function until the device cools.
Why does the Redmi 10 charge faster than another device?
This is a normal phenomenon associated with: Power loss during transmission (about 20-30% is lost as heat); background processes on the Redmi 10 itself (Wi-Fi, mobile network, applications); power limitation (5W is not enough for modern smartphones with 4000-5000 mAh batteries); To minimize the difference: Activate the aircraft mode on the Redmi 10 while charging. Use a cable with minimal resistance (short and thick). Charge devices with small batteries (earphones, fitness bracelets).
Can I turn on reverse charging on Redmi 10 via the engineering menu?
No, the engineering menu (#4636###) doesn't have options for forced reverse charging. All settings are managed at the MIUI and power controller level. If the feature is not on the standard menu, it means: Your Redmi 10 model doesn't support OTG Power Delivery (for example, some regional versions); the firmware is outdated or modified (castom build). There is a hardware limitation (damaged power controller). The only way to get around this is to update the firmware to the latest official version or contact the service center for diagnostics.
What devices can be charged from Redmi 10?
List of compatible devices: ๐Ÿ“ฑ Smartphones (Android and iPhone) with a connector USB-C or micro-USB. ๐ŸŽง Wireless headphones (AirPods, Xiaomi Airdots, Samsung Galaxy Buds, etc.). โŒš Smart watches and fitness bracelets (Mi Band, Amazfit, Huawei Watch). ๐Ÿ”Š Portable columns with USB-charging. ๐ŸŽฎ Gamepads (e.g. Xiaomi Game Controller) Incompatible devices: Laptops and tablets (require more power); Devices with a Lightning connector without an adapter; Accessories requiring Quick Charge or other proprietary protocols.