Xiaomi’s First Included: Full Instructions for Activating a New Phone

You just unpacked Xiaomi's new smartphone -- the shiny body, the factory film and the unique smell of new technology -- but before you can enjoy the device, you have to activate it properly. Xiaomi's first-on process has nuances that set it apart from other brands: Linking to Mi Account, features of regional firmware and hidden settings MIUI, which are not mentioned in the standard instructions.

Many users face problems already at the activation stage: the phone asks for the old account of the previous owner (if the device is used), does not connect to Wi-Fi or hangs on the logo. In this article, we will discuss not only the basic steps of inclusion, but also the solution of typical errors, and give recommendations for optimal configuration of the system after activation, POCO X6 Xiaomi 14, where the process may be different due to new versions MIUI 15 and HyperOS.

Preparing for the first turn on: what to do before activation

Before you press the power button, make sure you follow all the preliminary steps.This will save you from problems with charging, networking or account during the setup stage.

First, check the package. In the box with the new Xiaomi should be:

  • πŸ“± Smartphone itself (with a sticker on the screen and a protective film)
  • πŸ”Œ Cable USB Type-C (or Micro-USB) for older models)
  • ⚑ Charger (if the model supports fast charging, check the power of the unit)
  • πŸ“„ Guarantee card and brief instructions
  • πŸ”‘ Paperclip for the tray SIM-cards (sometimes embedded in a tray)

If you've been buying your phone with your hands, make sure to reset to factory settings via Recovery Mode before you first turn on.This is the only way to avoid being tied to someone else's Mi Account or Google accounts. + Power on the phone turned off, select Wipe Data and confirm the reset.

πŸ’‘

If you activate your phone in a region other than China, check the firmware version in the settings right away.Chinese versions (CN ROM) There may be restrictions on Google services.

Also prepare:

  • πŸ“Ά Login and password from home Wi-Fi (it is better to write in advance)
  • πŸ” Data from your Mi Account (or register a new account)
  • πŸ“± Backup of data from your old phone (if you plan to transfer)
  • πŸ”‹ Charger at hand (the battery must be charged at least 50 times%)
πŸ“Š What Xiaomi smartphone you are activating?
Redmi Note 13/Pro
POCO X6/X6 Pro
Xiaomi 14/14 Pro
Old model (until 2022)
Another model

Step-by-step: first inclusion and basic setting

Now, let's get to the activation process itself. Follow the instructions carefully -- the order of action is important, especially if you're setting up a phone with a phone that's not designed for you. MIUI 15 or HyperOS.

  1. Turn on the phone: press the power button for 3-5 seconds. the Xiaomi logo will appear on the screen or POCO.
  2. Language selection: scroll down and select Russian (or any other language you want), and models for China may not have Russian, in which case select English and then set the language pack later.
  3. Connect to the network: Select your Wi-Fi network from the list. Enter a password. If the network is hidden, click Add Network at the bottom of the screen. If the Wi-Fi is not connected, check the router or use mobile data (insert the mobile data). SIM-map).
  4. Acceptance of Terms of Use: Read the license agreement (you can skip by clicking on Next below) and it will be prompted to accept the privacy policy of Xiaomi and Google.
  5. Sign in to Mi Account: If you don't have an account, click Create an account and follow the instructions. If you have an account, type in email/Phone and password: HyperOS models may require two-factor authentication (code from the SMS postage).
  6. Set up Google services: sign in to a Google account or create a new one. This is a must to access the Play Market.
  7. Data portability (optional): Choose Copy Data if you want to transfer contacts, photos and apps from your old phone, and you can use cable, Wi-Fi Direct, or the Mi Cloud.

Completion of the setup

β˜‘οΈ Checklist before activation completion

Done: 0 / 5

Once setup is complete, the phone will restart and be ready to use, taking 10 to 20 minutes depending on the model and the speed of the internet.

Regional features: what to do if the phone is "Chinese"

Many Xiaomi models, especially the flagships of the Xiaomi series 13T or Redmi K60, It is sold in two versions: Global (Global) ROM) Chinese (CN ROM). If you bought a phone with Chinese firmware, you will be subject to restrictions:

  • 🚫 No Google Services (Play Market, Gmail, YouTube).
  • πŸ“΅ Limited support 4G/5G in some regions.
  • πŸ”  There is no Russian language in the system (only English and Chinese).
  • πŸ“‘ Lack of some Wi-Fi frequencies (e.g. 5 GHz).

The problem can be solved in two ways:

MethodPlusesConsDifficulty
Install Global ROM via FastbootGoogle support, all languages, optimization for your regionResetting all data, risk of β€œbrick” in case of error, requires unlocking the bootloader⭐⭐⭐⭐
Installation of Google Installer (for the CN ROM)Quickly, does not require reset, saves dataNot all services are stable, there may be update errors⭐⭐
Use of alternative stores (APKPure, Aptoide)No changes to the system are requiredSecurity risk, no automatic app updates⭐

If you decide to reflash your phone, follow the official instructions from Xiaomi and use only the verified firmware from the site en.miui.com. Remember that unlocking the bootloader takes up to 72 hours (it requires binding to Mi Account and waiting for confirmation).

How do I check the firmware version?
Go to Settings. β†’ The phone. β†’ Version. MIUI. If there is a name at the end CN (for example, MIUI 15.0.1 CN) β€” You have Chinese firmware. The global version will be labeled Global or EEA (Europe).

Typical activation errors and how to fix them

Even with the right training, users face problems, and let's look at the most common mistakes and their solutions.

⚠️ Note: If the phone requires a password from the previous Mi Account after a reset, it means that the device was linked to the account through the Find Device feature. The only legal way to unlock is to contact the previous owner or provide a check of purchase to the Xiaomi service center.

Error 1: The phone doesn’t turn on or hangs on the logo

  • πŸ”‹ Check the battery power – connect to the charge for 10-15 minutes.
  • πŸ”„ Perform Forced Reboot: Clutch Power + Loudness down for 10-15 seconds.
  • πŸ› οΈ If the problem remains, reflash the phone via Fastboot (instructions on the official website).

Error 2: Not connecting to Wi-Fi

  • πŸ“Ά Reboot the router.
  • πŸ”§ Check if your phone supports your Wi-Fi frequency (e.g. older models don't work with 5 GHz).
  • πŸ”„ In the router settings, change the security type with WPA3 on WPA2 (sometimes).
  • πŸ“± Use mobile data for initial setup and set up Wi-Fi later.

Error 3: Cannot log into your Mi Account

  • πŸ”‘ Make sure you enter the correct one. email/Phone and password (registration is important!).
  • πŸ“§ Check the Spam folder in your mailbox – the confirmation code may have arrived.
  • 🌐 If your account is blocked, try to restore access via account.xiaomi.com.
  • πŸ“΅ If the phone is used, contact the previous owner to untie the device.

Error 4: Google Services Are Not Working CN ROM)

  • πŸ“₯ Install Google Installer from the Mi App Store (Chinese account required).
  • πŸ”§ Manually install. APK-Google service files (can be found at apkmirror.com).
  • πŸ”„ Check the phone for Global. ROM (recommended for stable operation).

πŸ’‘

If the phone requires an account of the previous owner, DO NOT try to bypass the lock through the "left" programs. This can lead to a complete loss of functionality of the device.

Optimization after activation: what to set up first

The phone is activated, but this is just the beginning. To make Xiaomi work quickly and without failure, perform a few important settings.

Updating the system

  • Go to Settings β†’ About the phone β†’ System update.
  • If a new version is available MIUI or HyperOS, install it.
  • πŸ”‹ Make sure your phone is 50% charged or connected to a charger.

2. Set up notifications and permissions

  • Open Settings β†’ Applications β†’ Permissions.
  • Disable unnecessary permissions for apps (such as location access for games).
  • B Settings β†’ Notifications disable spam from system applications (e.g. Mi Browser or GetApps).

3. Battery optimization

  • Activate Charge Saving Mode in Settings β†’ Battery.
  • Turn off auto-run of unnecessary apps in Settings β†’ Battery β†’ Auto-start.
  • πŸ”‹ For models with HyperOS, enable Adaptive Charging (slows battery wear).

4. Security and confidentiality

  • Enable Application Locking in Settings β†’ Password and security.
  • Set up Find Device (similar to Google’s Find Phone) in case of loss.
  • Turn off personalized recommendations in Settings β†’ Privacy if you don’t want Xiaomi to collect data about your activities.

5. Personalization of the interface

  • Install wallpaper and theme through Themes (Xiaomi theme store).
  • Configure the Control Panel (swipe down from the upper right corner) – add the necessary switches (lightlightlight, mobile data, etc.).
  • Enable One-Hand Mode in Settings β†’ Additional features if you have a large screen.

πŸ’‘

If you notice that the phone is warming for no reason, check the active processes in Settings. β†’ Battery β†’ Battery use. Often the culprits are background apps or system updates.

Activation of additional functions: what newcomers miss

Many users are limited to the basic setting, unaware of the hidden possibilities. MIUI. Let’s look at the useful functions that should be activated immediately.

Second Space Mode

  • It allows you to create a second independent profile with separate applications and data.
  • It is useful for separating work and personal life or for children.
  • Activated in Settings β†’ Special facilities β†’ Second space.

2. Game Turbo (for gamers)

  • Optimizes performance in games, blocks notifications and adds virtual buttons.
  • Swipe enabled sideways in the game or through Settings β†’ Special facilities β†’ Game Turbo.

3. Fast charging and battery optimization

  • On models with support 120W HyperCharge (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro)+) Enable accelerated charging in Settings β†’ Battery.
  • To extend the battery life, activate Adaptive Charging (limits charge to 80% at night).

4.Gesturals and hidden commands

  • Double tap the screen to wake up (included in Settings) β†’ Lock screen).
  • Triple press of the power button to call SOS (adjusting to the settings β†’ Emergency call).
  • The "V" gesture to turn on the flashlight (works on the locked screen).

5.The Xiao Voice Assistant AI

  • Activated by a long press of the home button or voice command "Hey, Xiao" AI".
  • It can manage Xiaomi smart devices, run apps and answer questions.
  • Configured in Settings β†’ Xiao AI.

What to do if the used phone: check before buying and activating

If you bought Xiaomi from hand, be sure to check it out before activating:

  • πŸ”’ Mi Account binding: ask the seller to log out of the account and perform a reset.
  • πŸ“± Battery status: type ##4636## in the dialer and check the battery information.
  • πŸ› οΈ Availability of repairs: inspect the case for autopsy marks, check the work of all sensors.
  • πŸ“‘ Network support: insert SIM-map and make sure you catch it 4G/5G.

⚠️ Note: If the seller refuses to perform the reset with you or claims that "the account is not tied", this is a reason to doubt the integrity of the transaction.

Check it out. IMEI phone (printed on the box and in Settings) β†’ The phone. β†’ General information. It must match the data in the box. IMEI not matched or missing, the phone could have been recovered after the theft or repair of the motherboard.

It is also useful to check:

  • πŸ” Guarantee status: enter IMEI site www.mi.com/global/verify.
  • πŸ“Š Battery life: install AccuBattery app and check wear.
  • πŸ”§ Work of all modules: test the camera, speakers, microphone, sensors.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions About Xiaomi Activation

Can I activate Xiaomi without a Mi Account?
Technically, but with limitations. Without Mi Account, you can't: Use Mi Cloud storage. Update over the air (OTA). Unlock the bootloader for firmware. Use the Find Device function. On HyperOS models, account binding is required to activate certain functions (e.g. Second Space).
How to transfer data from your old phone to your new Xiaomi?
There are several ways: Through Mi Mover: Install the Mi Mover app on both phones. Connect to the same Wi-Fi network. On the new phone, select Copy Data. β†’ From another phone. Google Account: On your old phone, enable sync of contacts, calendar and photos in Settings β†’ Accounts. β†’ Google. On the new phone, log in to the same account, the data will be downloaded automatically. OTG: Connect your old phone to your new one OTG-Select files to be manually transferred. You can use Mi Mover or Google Backup to port applications.
Why does Xiaomi ask for an old account after a reset?
This means that the phone has activated Find Device (similar to Google's Find Device) and is tied to the previous owner's Mi Account. The only solution is: By contacting the previous owner to untie the device via i.mi.com. By providing proof of purchase (check) to the official Xiaomi service center. Self-reset via Fastboot or left-handed programs will not help - the lock remains at the hardware level.
How to activate 5G on Xiaomi?
If your phone supports you 5G (For example, the Redmi Note 12 5G Xiaomi 13T), But the net doesn't catch: Check that yours is SIM-card 5G (Go to the operator. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Network type and select 5G. Update your firmware to the latest version (sometimes operators add support for new frequencies in updates). 5G Not available on the menu, your model may not support 5G in your area (check the specifications at gsmarena.com).
Can you activate Xiaomi without SIM-map?
Yes, SIM-You can: Connect to Wi-Fi to set up. Skip the step with the SIM-Use the phone in tablet mode (no mobile connection), but for full use (calls, SMS, mobile) SIM-mapping.