How to activate Xiaomi Redmi phone: instructions with photos and tips

The first inclusion of the new Xiaomi Redmi is exciting, but not always obvious. Even if you are a seasoned user, the nuances of activating smartphones on the market are not always obvious. MIUI You may be wondering why you want to link your account, how to unblock it. SIM-This article will cover all the activation steps, from unpacking the box to first synchronizing data, and how to avoid the typical mistakes that turn the joy of a new gadget into an hour of agony.

Redmi is a feature that is very well integrated with Xiaomi’s ecosystem, which means that without a Mi Account, you can’t use the cloud backup, find a device when you lose it, or even update your firmware, but don’t worry, we’ll show you how to link an account without the risk of locking your phone, and what to do if you forget your password, and we’ll also find out why some Redmi models (for example, in the Chinese market) require additional manipulations when you activate.

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

Before you press the power button, make sure you have everything you need on hand, which will save time and eliminate unpleasant surprises like a dead battery or no Internet connection.

Here is the minimum set you will need:

• 🔌 Charger (better original from the set - cheap analogues may not provide the necessary current for fast charging).
• 📶 SIM-Nano-format card (if your Redmi supports two) SIM, Prepare both in advance).
• 🌐 Wi-Fi access (mobile internet is also good, but setting up via Wi-Fi is faster and does not waste traffic).
• 📱 Another smartphone or computer (in handy if you need to confirm the account) SMS or download drivers).

If you bought your phone with your hands or it was brought from abroad, be sure to check if it is not tied to someone else's Mi Account. To do this, turn on the device and wait for the welcome screen. If the system requires you to enter the username and password of the previous owner, this is a locked device, and its activation without data from the past user is impossible (you need to contact Xiaomi support).

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi models (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro)+ 5G For China, they may block access to Google Play and other Google services, and if you plan to use them, make sure that the firmware is global (Global in the name).

Step-by-step: first inclusion and basic setting

Now, let's get to the activation process itself, and follow the instructions Step-by-step to ensure that you don't miss the important points.

1. Turn on the phone. Press the power button (usually located on the right end) for 2-3 seconds until the Redmi logo appears.
2. Select a language. Scroll down and find Russian (or Ukrainian if you want Ukrainian localization).
3. Connect to the network. Tap your Wi-Fi network name, enter your password and click Connect. If there is no Wi-Fi, select Use Mobile Data (required) SIM-card).
4. Accept the Terms of Use. Read (or scroll through) the license agreement and click Accept.
5. Set up a Mi Account. There are two options: 📱 Sign in to an existing account (if you already have a Mi Account). 🆕 Create a new one (click Register and follow the prompts).

Activate Google services.

Set up the lock on the screen.

Password.

pattern lock

Restore the data (optional).

Mi Mover

Google Backup

Once you've completed these steps, you'll be on the main screen. But that's not all. SIM-map and check system updates.

Successful Wi-Fi or mobile internet connection |

Linking Mi-account and Google-account |

Screen lock setting |

Update to the latest version |

Verification of work SIM-cards (call or SMS)-->

Activation. SIM-Why the phone can't see the network

One of the most common problems with activating Xiaomi Redmi is the lack of network. SIM-The card, and the phone insists on saying, No service, or only emergency calls, the reasons may be different:

If your Redmi supports two of your SIM-map, but the second one doesn't work, check if it's included in the settings:

1. Open the Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
2. Tap the second name. SIM-map.
3. Make sure the switch is turned on SIM-card active.

To link the account correctly:

1. Go to Settings → Xiaomi account.
2. Enter the email or phone number you provided when registering.
3. Confirm the entrance by SMS or by mail.
4. Enable data synchronization (optional, but recommended).

If you forget your Mi Account password, restore it through the official account.xiaomi.com. Never buy accounts on third-party sites – this violates Xiaomi’s rules and can lead to the device being blocked.

Firmware Update: Why It’s Important to Do It Immediately After Activation

Even if your Redmi is new, the first thing to do after activation is to check for updates.The manufacturer regularly releases security patches and bug fixes that:

• 🛡️ Cover vulnerabilities (for example, Redmi Note 11 had a critical hole in the Bluetooth module).
• 📶 Improve the network and GPS.
• 🔋 Optimize battery consumption.
• 🎯 Add new functions (e.g. gestures to the MIUI 14).

To update the firmware:

1. Open Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If a new version is available, tap Download (make sure the battery is >50%).
4. After download, click Set and wait for the reboot.

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi is purchased in China, updates through the standard menu can remove Google services. In this case, download the firmware only from the official Xiaomi website (Global section).

💡

Updating over Wi-Fi is always more reliable than over the mobile Internet, and if the connection is interrupted, the firmware can get damaged and the phone will stop turning on.

Configure additional functions after activation

Now that the phone is activated, you can optimize it for your needs. Here's what you should do first:

1. Set up a fingerprint or facial recognition (if supported):

• Go to Settings → Password and Security → Fingerprint.
• Follow the instructions on the screen (you will have to apply your finger several times).

2. optimize battery consumption:

• Activate Adaptive Charging in Settings → Battery (prolongs battery life).
• Turn off auto-run of unnecessary applications in Settings → Apps → Auto-run.

3. Set up notifications:

• In Settings → Notifications, disable unnecessary alerts from system applications.
• Enable Floating Notifications for Important Messengers.

4. Activate the Second Space function (second desktop):

This is useful if you want to separate personal and work data.

1. Go to Settings → Special Options → Second Space.
2. Click Create Second Space and follow the instructions.

💡

If you don’t like the standard MIUI theme, install an alternative through Settings → Themes. There are both free and paid options with unique icons and animations.

Frequent activation errors and how to avoid them

Even when following instructions, users often face problems, and here are the most common ones and ways to solve them:

If you notice that the phone is slowing down or spontaneously restarting after activation, try:

1. Clear the cache in Settings → Storage → Clear the cache.
2. Turn off animation in Settings → Special features → Remove animation.
3. Reset the settings to factory (if the problem is not fixed).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions about Xiaomi Redmi activation