How to know exactly the model and version of the smartphone Xiaomi

Owning a device from the Chinese giant often requires users to accurately identify the gadget, which may be required to find the right firmware, check the compatibility of accessories or design warranty. However, Xiaomi’s ecosystem is designed so that the marketing name you saw when you bought and the real internal code name can be significantly different. Understanding this difference is critical for the proper operation of the device.

There are many ways to get this information, from the simple inspection of the box to the engineering menu, and in this guide, we will go through all the methods available, including those that work even on a locked screen. You will learn to distinguish between global and Chinese versions and understand why to search for drivers or ROM-Files should be used with a technical identifier, not a beautiful name from the storefront.

Often users confuse a series of devices with a specific model, which leads to errors when installing updates. Redmi Note 10 can have several modifications with different processors, and confuse them very easily. We will help you avoid these errors by providing comprehensive instructions on how to identify your device in any situation, even if the touch screen is partially unresponsive.

Search for information in system settings

The most obvious and accessible way is to look at the menu of the device itself. The interface of the MIUI shell or the new HyperOS contains all the necessary information about the hardware. To get the data, go to Settings, then select About the phone, and this is where the basic information that the average user sees when they first turn on is displayed.

However, the data in this menu can be hidden with an additional click. Often only the marketing name, such as "Redmi Note 12 Pro", will be displayed. To see the technical code name (for example, redwood), you need to quickly click on the line with the name of the version of MIUI or the system logo several times, and then you will open a hidden menu, which will show a full list of parameters, including the code name used by the developers.

⚠️ Note: Do not confuse the code name with the build number. Codename is one word in English that is a unique model identifier for the firmware, while build number indicates the software version.

In the same section, you'll find information about the processor, RAM and internal memory, and this is critical to understanding the performance of your device. If you're planning to sell or buy parts for a device, this section is the most informative screenshot for a buyer or a master.

Use of the USSD-codes and engineering menus

If your smartphone screen is broken but the touchscreen is partially working, or if you just prefer quick commands, use special codes. Type ##64663## in the Phone app. This code opens the CIT (Customer Integration Test) engineering menu, which is used in the factory to check all the device modules.

In the test list that opens, look for Version or Version, and if you click on it, you'll see a detailed technical summary, and it'll show HW (Hardware) version, SW (Software) version, and most importantly, Project name, and that's the name of the project, and that's the code word you'll be looking for on the 4PDA or XDA Developers forums when you search for custom recaves or patches.

• 📱 Project Name: Unique model name (e.g., gucci, kenzo, surya).
• 🛠 CIT Version: Version of the diagnostic module.
• 📡 Baseband: Version of the radio module responsible for communication.
• 🔋 Battery: Battery type and status.

There is another code called *#06# that displays information about IMEI. Although it doesn't show the model directly, the first eight digits of IMEI (TAC) can be used to determine the exact model through online services, which is a useful life hack if the system is unstable and prevents you from opening the full settings.

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If the ##64663## code doesn’t work, try entering it through the Calculator app – some older versions of MIUI have combined phone and calculator functions.

Analysis of factory markings and packaging

Physical stickers are the most reliable source of truth that can't be changed software, and there's a factory sticker on the back of most Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO smartphones (if not removed), and it's duplicated on the box from under the device, and look for a barcode and next to it a line that starts with a prefix, like MZB or similar.

Notice the fine print underneath the barcode. It often shows the Model. It's important to understand the difference between the global version and the Chinese version. Global versions usually end with a Global in the box's name, and their model may differ by one letter from the Chinese counterpart. For example, the Chinese version may be called M2010J19CG, and the global version is M2010J19SG. The last letter often indicates a region.

If the box is lost and the sticker is erased, there is a search option for the IMEI. This number is stamped on the tray for SIM-cards (on some models) or on the board itself inside the case, but to access the board will require disassembly, which is not always advisable.

Model definition through computer and ADB

For advanced users who are preparing a device for flashing, the ideal option is to connect to a PC. If the phone is debugging over USB, the computer will see the device and its exact identifier, which is the most technically accurate method, eliminating visual errors.

Use the ADB (Android Debug Bridge) utility. After connecting the cable and logging in on your smartphone screen, type a command in the computer command line to get system properties, which will pull out all the hidden variables that are not displayed in the normal interface.

adb shell getprop ro.product.model


adb shell getprop ro.product.device

The first command will return the marketing name (for example, M2101K6G), and the second will return the same code name (for example, alioth), which is key to the search software. You can also use the Mi Flash Tool program in Fastboot mode. If you connect a phone that is turned off with a clamped down button, the utility will show the device and its code name at the top of the interface, even if the ADB drivers are not fully installed.

⚠️ Warning: When you connect to your computer in Fastboot mode, the phone screen will burn in orange or blue with a picture of a hare repairing a robot. Don't worry, this is a regular boot mode, but don't try to flip through the menu in it, since the control is only done with volume buttons.

IMEI Online Services and Databases

In situations where the device is not turned on but the IMEI is readable, online databases come to the rescue, type a 15-digit IMEI number into a search engine or a dedicated verification service, which will not only provide the model, but also the activation date, warranty status and even the color of the device.

There are specialized sites like imei.info or miui.com (the authentication section) that check the number entered against the factory database of Xiaomi Corporation. This is also a great way to check the authenticity of the device before buying from hand. If the site says "Not found" or the model does not match the appearance, you either have a fake or a device with interrupted numbers.

This is especially true for unpacked versions, and sellers may claim it is a global version with Google Play installed, but an IMEI check will show that the device was originally intended for the Chinese market, affecting notifications, Android Auto and some banking applications.

Frequent errors in identification

Many users make the mistake of relying on just the name in the store or on the box. The same model can come with different processors depending on the region and year of release. For example, the Redmi Note 10 series has versions with Snapdragon and Helio, which are technically different devices, despite the same name.

Another common problem is generational confusion: Redmi Note 9 and Redmi Note 9 Pro have different cases and boards, but it's easy for laypersons to confuse them visually. The firmware from one model to another will turn a smartphone into a "brick." Always double-check the codename before any manipulation of system software.

• 🚫 Ignoring the letter at the end: M2010J19C and M2010J19G — It's different devices.
• 🚫 Trust only to "About Phone": In overbought devices, the information in the menu can be changed programmatically.
• 🚫 Diagonal only comparison: Different models may have the same screens, but the plumes and connectors are different.

Be careful of the details. If you order a display module, the seller will always ask for a code name or take a picture of the plume. Knowing where to look at the model of Xiaomi's smartphone will save you time and money on returning inappropriate parts.

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The most reliable method is a combination of checking in the About Phone menu (with the full list disclosed) and checking with a sticker on the box or case.

Questions and Answers (FAQ)