Why is the Redmi 9S still relevant in 2026?
Xiaomi Redmi 9S, released in 2020, remains one of the most popular budget devices on the market due to balanced performance and support for MIUI updates. Despite its age, the model is equipped with a Helio G35 processor, a battery of 5020 mAh and a camera with a resolution of 13 MP, which makes it competitive even among new budget customers.
However, many users are faced with questions such as how to properly set up the device after purchase, how to optimize its performance or solve typical problems (for example, overheating or fast battery discharge), in this guide we will examine all the key aspects from the basic settings to the hidden features of MIUI 14 (the latest supported version for this model).
Important: The Redmi 9S has several modifications (e.g., the Redmi 9C or Redmi 9A), but the instructions in this article are relevant to the model with the index S (codename cattail). If your device is different, check the markings on the box or in the settings along the Settings path → About Phone → Model.
Initial setup after purchase
When you first turn on the Redmi 9S, you will have to go through the initialization process, which is important to not miss the key points that will affect the future performance of the smartphone. Let’s start with the choice of language and region – these parameters determine the available Xiaomi services (for example, Mi Cloud or theme store).
Pay particular attention to:
- 🔐 Mi: without it, you can't use cloud storage, search for a device, or sync notes. If you already have a Google account, you can link it later, but Mi Account is better created immediately.
- 📡 Wi-Fi Connection: To download updates and apps. If you don't have a network, use mobile internet (but note that Redmi is a good place to download apps and apps). 9S supports 4G).
- 🔄 Update: the system will offer to download the latest version MIUI. Don’t put it off – fresh firmware fixes critical bugs and improves optimization.
After completing the setup wizard, check the following parameters:
Set a date and time (automatically or manually)| Set up your fingerprint (in Settings → Passwords and Security)| Disable unnecessary system applications (e.g. Mi Video or Mi Music)| Activate Developer Mode (7 taps on MIUI version in settings)
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⚠️ Note: If you are buying a Redmi 9S hand, be sure to reset to factory settings (Settings) → Additionally. → Recovery and reset: The previous owner may have left a linked Mi Account, which will block access to certain features.
Optimizing performance and battery
The Redmi 9S is not a flagship, so it requires the right setup to work smoothly. The main brakes are related to background processes and interface animation.
1. Turn off animation: this will speed up transitions between applications. Activate Developer Mode (as mentioned above), then go to Settings → Additional → For Developers and install:
Window animation scale = 0.5x
Transition animation scale = 0.5x
Scale of animation duration = Disconnected2. Limit background activity: Many apps (like Facebook or TikTok) continue to run in the background, consuming battery. Go to Settings → Applications → App Management, select the right one and turn off the AutoRun option.
3. Set up the battery: in Settings → Battery, turn on:
- 🔋 Adaptive charging (prolongs battery life).
- ⚡ Fast charging (although Redmi is a fast charging) 9S supports 10W, This will speed things up by 15-20%).
- 📉 Optimization of power consumption for individual applications (for example, for Telegram or WhatsApp, you can set the Intelligent Energy Saving mode).
⚠️ Warning: If the battery is running out too quickly (more than 10% per hour in standby mode), check Settings → Battery → Battery use.A frequent cause is the Google Play Services app - try clearing its cache or updating it.
Camera Settings: How to Make a Photo Better
Camera Redmi 9S is its weak point: the main module 13 MP (with an aperture of f/2.2) and front camera 5 MP. However, even with such a "hardware" you can achieve acceptable results if you configure the software correctly.
Basic advice:
- 📸 Turn it on. HDR: In the appendix, tap the icon HDR (This will improve the detail in the shadows and in bright light.
- 🌃 Night mode: activates automatically in low light conditions, but it can be turned on manually (moon icon.
- 🔍 Manual settings: in Pro mode you can adjust ISO, Shutter speed and white balance. For daytime shots, set ISO 100-200, for evenings — ISO 400–800.
To improve the quality of the video:
| Parameter | Recommended value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Video resolution | 1080p (Full HD) | 720p gives you a smaller file size, but worse detail. |
| Stabilization | On. | Reduces tremors, but slightly trims the edges of the frame. |
| Frequency of personnel | 30 FPS | 60 FPS is only available at 720p. |
| Format | MP4 (H.264) | It is more compatible with social media than MOV. |
⚠️ Note: When shooting a video in 1080p Redmi 9S If the temperature is above 45, it's too hot.°C, the camera will automatically shut down. To avoid this, shoot short videos (up to 5 minutes) or use an external fan.
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Before shooting, wipe the camera lens with a dry napkin - greasy fingerprints can spoil the quality of the pictures, especially in bright light.
Working with memory: how to free up space
The Redmi 9S came in 32GB and 64GB of internal storage, and even in the 64GB version, users often face space shortages due to cache and debris accumulation.
1. Cache cleanup:
- 🧹 Go to Settings. → Warehouse → Clean up and click Clean up garbage.This will delete temporary files (usually freed 1-3 GB).
- 🗑️ For individual applications: Settings → Annexes → Select an application → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
2. Transfer of data to the memory card:
Redmi 9S Supports microSD up to 512 GB (in a hybrid slot, i.e. instead of a second one) SIM-To move the applications:
- Insert a memory card (formatted as internal storage).
- Go to Settings → Applications → Select the application → Storage → Change.
- Select Memory Card (not all apps support portability).
Removal of duplicates:
Use the built-in Files (Category → Duplicates) app or third-party utilities like Files by Google, especially many duplicates accumulate in folders:
- 📁 DCIM/Camera (photo).
- 📁 Downloads (downloads from the browser).
- 📁 WhatsApp/Media (chat-files).
What if the phone says “Not enough memory” but there is enough space?
Hidden MIUI features you didn’t know about
MIUI is not just an Android shell, it's an ecosystem with unique features, many of which are hidden or underrated by users. Here are the most useful ones for the Redmi 9S:
Double annexes:
Allows you to clone messengers (such as WhatsApp or Telegram) to use two accounts. Activated in Settings → Applications → Dual applications.
Second Space Mode:
Creates an isolated work environment with separate applications and data (useful for separating work and personal life). Included in Settings → Special Features → Second Space.
3.Gestural and quick action:
- 👆 Triple tap on the screen: you can assign an action (e.g., screenshot or camera start). → Special facilities → Quick action.
- 🔄 Turn the camera on: double-turn the phone in a horizontal position to quickly open the camera (turns on there).
- 🎵 Musical gesture control: in the Mi Music player you can switch tracks by swiping your finger on the off screen.
4. Hidden settings of the developer:
In addition to disabling animation (mentioned above), here you can:
- 🔊 Change Bluetooth bitrate (useful for wireless headphones).
- 📶 Forced to turn on 4G (if the network is frequently switched to 3G).
- 🔋 Display the charge level as a percentage in the status bar.
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Game Turbo (in Settings) → Special features) improve performance in games by blocking notifications and optimizing resources. 9S with its modest characteristics.
Typical problem solving
Even when set up correctly, the Redmi 9S can be unstable, and let’s look at the most common user complaints and how to resolve them.
The phone is overheating:
Reasons:
- 🔥 Long-term play or video shooting.
- 🔄 Background activity of apps (especially Google Chrome or Facebook).
- 📡 Bad network signal (phone looking hard for connection).
Decisions:
- ❄️ Remove the case (especially silicone – it worsens heat transfer).
- 🛑 Close all applications through Recent (swipe up).
- 🔄 Turn on Airplane Mode for 5-10 minutes to let the processor cool down.
2. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is not working:
It's usually a software glitch.
- Reboot the phone.
- Forget the Wi-Fi network (Settings → Wi-Fi → Additional → Network Management) and connect again.
- Reset network settings: Settings → System → Reset settings → Reset network settings.
The battery is running out fast:
If the problem persists after optimization (described above), check:
- 🔋 Battery status: type in dial ##4636##, select Battery Information. If the wear level is greater than 30%, it is time to replace the battery.
- 📵 Background Location: Disable it for Unnecessary Applications in Settings → Confidentiality → Permits → Location.
⚠️ Attention: If Redmi 9S suddenly switched off when charged above 30%, this is a sign of a malfunction of the battery or power controller.Do not use the phone before replacing the battery - this can cause swelling and damage to the board.