Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro: how to configure, flash and extend the service life

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro remains one of the most popular budget smartphones even years after its release. 720G, With a capacious 5020 mAh battery, a quadruple camera and a 120 Hz display, the device is versatile for gaming, shooting and everyday tasks, but many owners face typical problems: slow operation after upgrades, fast battery discharge, overheating or sensors malfunction. In this guide, we will discuss how to properly configure the Redmi Note 9 Pro, avoid common errors and even return the device to its former performance.

It's important to understand that the Redmi Note 9 Pro has several modifications - the standard global version (joyeuse), the Indian version (curtana) and the Chinese version (excalibur). Some instructions, especially those related to firmware or unlocking the bootloader, may differ (MIUI Global, but highlight the key differences for other regions.

If you just bought a used device or want to reanimate your smartphone after a year of use, this guide will help. SIM-maps (this is in the official instructions), and focus on hidden settings, optimization and repair.

1.Initial setting: what to disable immediately after purchase

MIUI It's famous for its pre-installed services and chips, which aren't always useful, and many of them eat up the battery and slow down the system:

  • πŸ” Turn off "Recommendations" MIUI": Go to Settings. β†’ Annexes β†’ Application management β†’ Recommendations MIUI and select "Disable." That removes the intrusive notifications of new features.
  • πŸ“Š Limit background activity: in Settings β†’ Battery β†’ Battery settings activate Power Saving mode for unnecessary applications (e.g. Mi Video or Mi Music).
  • πŸ›‘ Remove Bloatware: Without root rights, you can deactivate system applications through Settings β†’ Annexes β†’ Application management (click on three dots in the upper right corner) β†’ "Show all applications").
  • πŸ”„ Turn off automatic optimization: MIUI He likes to "clean" his memory in the background, which prevents him from multitasking. β†’ Special facilities β†’ Optimize the system and deactivate the option.

A critical mistake many users make is to leave Second Space enabled, which creates a separate user profile but is unstable and can cause data loss when resetting. If you don't need it, delete it through Settings. β†’ Confidentiality β†’ Second space.

⚠️ Warning: Do not disable the system application Security - this will lead to malfunctions in the work MIUI. Instead, disable unnecessary features: real-time virus scanning and game optimization".

πŸ“Š What is the problem you most often notice on the Redmi Note 9 Pro?
Fast battery discharge
Overheating during games
Slow operation after update
Camera problems
Other

2 Unlock the bootloader: why it is necessary and how to do it safely

Unlocking the bootloader on the Redmi Note 9 Pro gives you access to custom firmware, root rights, and advanced kernel customization.

  • πŸ”“ Loss of warranty (if the device is under warranty).
  • πŸ“± Complete data reset (all files will be deleted).
  • πŸ› οΈ Possibility of "bricking" in case of errors during firmware.

If you do, follow the official instructions from Xiaomi:

  1. Connect your Mi Account to your device: Settings β†’ Xiaomi account β†’ Linking an account to a device.
  2. Apply for unlocking via Xiaomi website (required) SIM-map SMS-confirmation).
  3. Download the Mi Unlock Tool and connect your phone in Fastboot mode (clip Volume Down + Power when the phone is off).
  4. Start unlocking through the program (the process will take 72-168 hours of waiting!).

After unlocking, you can install it. TWRP Or custom firmware (like Pixel Experience for pure Android:

What happens if you break the unlock?
If you disconnect your phone from your PC or interrupt the process through the Mi Unlock Tool, the bootloader can lock permanently, in which case only a service center with access to authorized Xiaomi tools will help (EDL-regime).

⚠️ Note: On models Redmi Note 9 Pro with firmware MIUI 13+ Unlocking may require additional confirmation through SMS Even after you link your account, if you don't get the code, try using another one. SIM-map VPN (polka).

Action.Effects of consequencesDecision
Unlocking the loaderReset to factory settingsCreate a backup through Settings β†’ Additional β†’ Backup
Installation of TWRPLoss of loss OTA-updateUpdate your firmware manually via OrangeFox or TWRP
Getting root rightsBanking applications do not work (SberBank, Tinkoff)Use Magisk with Universal SafetyNet Fix

3. Performance optimization: how to speed up your smartphone

Over time, the Redmi Note 9 Pro begins to slow down due to clogged memory, fragmented files and background processes.

  • 🧹 Cache Clearing: Go to Settings β†’ Warehouse β†’ Cache data and delete unnecessary files. Use the app for deep cleaning SD Maid (requires root).
  • πŸ”„ Turn off animation: Activate Developer Mode (7 times click on Version) MIUI in the phone settings, then in the settings β†’ Additionally. β†’ For developers install: Animation windows: 0.5x Animation of transitions: 0.5x Duration of the animator: 0.5x
  • πŸ“± Reset to factory settings: If the phone is severely braking, do a reset via Settings β†’ The phone. β†’ Reset settings. Pre-save the data!
  • πŸ”‹ Limit background processes: In the developer settings, limit background processes to 2-3 maximum.

For games (such as Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile) it is recommended to:

  1. Disable "Game turbo mode" in Settings β†’ Special facilities β†’ Game mode (it often conflicts with processor optimization).
  2. Set a limit FPS at 60 fps through game settings (this will reduce heating).
  3. Use a cooling stand or fan (Snapdragon temperature) 720G not exceed 75Β°C).

Close background annexes

Disable mobile data (if you play over Wi-Fi)

Activate the "Performance" mode in the battery settings

Set a limit FPS game-setting-->

⚠️ Note: Do not use games like Game Booster or CPU Tuner without root rights. They don't really increase performance, but they can cause overheating because of incorrect clock control.

Extension of battery life: myths and real methods

The 5020mAh battery in the Redmi Note 9 Pro is one of the main advantages of the model, but over time its capacity drops.

MethodEfficiencyCommentary
Charging up to 80% and discharge up to 20%⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Extends life by 30 to 40 percent. Use the charge limit in AccuBattery.
Shutting down fast charging⭐⭐33W-charging has almost no effect on wear, if you do not warm the phone while charging.
Use of β€œnight mode”⭐⭐⭐Reduces the heating of the screen, but has a weak effect on the battery.
Calibration of the battery⭐In modern smartphones are not required. MIUI calibrates.

The most harmful habits for the battery Redmi Note 9 Pro:

  • πŸ”₯ Play while charging - battery temperature can exceed 45Β°C, which accelerates degradation.
  • πŸ“΅ Leave your phone on charge overnight – even with power out at 100%, the controller keeps the voltage high.
  • 🌑️ Use cheap charging – it doesn’t support Quick Charge 4+, This makes the phone warmer.

To monitor the status of the battery, use:

  • AccuBattery - shows the real capacity and discharge speed.
  • Battery Guru – tracks temperature and charging cycles.
  • Hidden Menu of Engineering Test: Enter in Phone Dialer ##4636## β†’ "Battery information".

πŸ’‘

If the phone suddenly turns off at 10 to 15 percent charge, it's a sign of battery wear. Try resetting the controller: completely discharge the device, then charge to 100 percent without interruption. Repeat 2-3 times.

5. Camera setup: how to get the maximum photo quality

Redmi Note 9 Pro is equipped with a quadruple camera with a main module at 48 MP (Samsung) GM2), but MIUI Uses pixel binning up to 12 MP for better detail to unlock the camera's potential:

  • πŸ“Έ Enable 48 MP: activate "High Resolution" in the camera settings (Icon) 48M top-down).
  • πŸŒ“ Turn it off. HDR manually: automatic HDR It often over-glows images. Use it only in high contrast.
  • 🎞️ Take a video in 4K@30fps: regime 1080p@60fps heats the processor and worsens stabilization.
  • πŸ” Use GCam: Ported versions of Google Camera (e.g., from Google Camera) BSG or Wichaya, give better processing HDR night-time.

For the installation of GCam:

  1. Download. APK From Celso Azevedo (select the version for Snapdragon) 720G).
  2. Install the file by allowing installation from unknown sources.
  3. In GCam settings, select the config for Redmi Note 9 Pro (e.g, MGC_8.1.101_A9_PV1.xml).

Camera problems and solutions:

Problem.Reason.Decision
Blurred photos in low lightNoise suppression MIUI too aggressiveUse GCam with night mode or manual settings (suspension) 1/10s, ISO 800–1600)
The green tint in the photoThe Wrong White BalanceManually set the temperature. 5000K pro-regime
Autofocus is not working.Module contamination or software failureWipe the camera with alcohol or reset the settings of the Camera app

πŸ’‘

To shoot a video in 4K Redmi Note 9 Pro should use a class memory card UHS-I (U3) β€” built-in memory can not cope with the flow of data, which can cause the video to lie down".

6. Repair and upgrade: what can be done on your own

The Redmi Note 9 Pro has a modular design that allows you to replace many components without specialized equipment.

  • πŸ”‹ Battery replacement: A suitable battery β€” BL-46 (5020 mAh. Cost. ~1500–2000 β‚½. Replacement will require a plastic spatula and hair dryer (greatly warm up the glue at the edges).
  • πŸ“± Display replacement: The original screen with a sensor will cost between 5000 and 7000 β‚½. When buying, check the compatibility of the connector (joyeuse and curtana have different ones!).
  • πŸ”Š Dynamic repair: A common problem is wheezing in the lower speaker, caused by dust, solution: blow in compressed air or replace the mesh mesh.
  • πŸ“Ά Replacement of antenna module: If the network signal is missing, check the antenna plume (often departs after falls). ~800 β‚½.

Instructions for battery replacement:

  1. Turn off the phone and remove it. SIM-map.
  2. Warm up the back cover with a hair dryer (temperature) ~60Β°C) and put a plastic blade in it.
  3. Unscrew 10 screws (T3) and disconnect the battery plume.
  4. Carefully tuck the battery with a plastic card (do not use metal!).
  5. Install a new battery and assemble the phone in reverse order.

⚠️ Warning: Replacing the screen with the Redmi Note 9 Pro may require you to move the touch controller from the old display. If you are not sure about your skills, contact the service. Installation will lead to "ghost" touches or a broken touch.

To check the operability of components after repair, use test codes:

  • ##6484## is a sensor test.
  • ##64663## is a display test.
  • ##06## - check-in IMEI (It is important after the replacement of the motherboard).

7 Update and firmware: how to avoid errors

Xiaomi regularly releases updates for the Redmi Note 9 Pro, but they aren't always stable.Here's how to upgrade securely:

  • πŸ”„ Check reviews before updating: On forums 4PDA or
  • πŸ”‹ Charge your phone up to 50%: Interrupting upgrades due to battery drain could lead to bootloop.

If after the update the phone does not turn on or hung on the logo:

  1. Press Volume Up + Power to Enter Recovery.
  2. Select Wipe Data (Data Reset).
  3. If it doesn’t work, run your phone through Fastboot using the Mi Flash Tool.

For manual firmware via Fastboot:

  1. Download the official firmware for your model from the Xiaomi website.
  2. Unpack the archive and launch it. flash_all.bat (Windows).
  3. Connect your phone in Fastboot mode and wait until the process is over.
What to do if IMEI is missing after the firmware?
It's because of damage. NV-Solution: 1. Download the archive from IMEI-instruments, for example, QCN Rebuilder). 2. Restore IMEI via the engineering menu (#36446337## β†’ CDMA β†’ NVRAM β†’ Restore). 3. If it does not help, contact the service to flash the modem module.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Can I install Android 13 on the Redmi Note 9 Pro?
Xiaomi has not officially released Android 13 for this model MIUI It's based on Android 12, but you can install custom firmware like LineageOS 20 or Pixel Experience 13 (requires an unlocked bootloader). XDA Developers.
Why does the phone get hot and discharged quickly?
Main reasons: Background processes (check in Settings) β†’ Battery β†’ Battery use. Faulty battery (check AccuBattery). Viruses or mining bots (scan your phone through Malwarebytes). Damaged charging plume (check if the connector is wobbling). USB-C). If it warms even in simple - reset the settings or reflash the phone.
How to turn on 90Hz or 120Hz on the Redmi Note 9 Pro?
Standard firmware MIUI Limits the frequency of screen refresh 60 Hz. To unlock. 90 Hz or 120 Hz: SetEdit (root required) and change the setting peak_refresh_rate into /system/build.prop on 120. Or you can run a custom core (like Perseus Kernel) that supports high frequencies. 90 Hz via hidden menu: enter in the dialer ##6484## β†’ choose 90Hz.
What to do if it doesn't work NFC?
Problems with NFC on the Redmi Note 9 Pro is usually associated with: Disconnected module (check in Settings) β†’ Connections β†’ NFC). A damaged antenna (located under the back cover, next to the camera) and a conflict with banking applications (turn off Safe Payment in the settings) NFC). If NFC It doesn’t turn on at all – run your phone through Fastboot (possibly damaged module) nfc_nci).
How to transfer data from an old phone?
Use the official Mi Mover app: Install it on both phones. On the old phone, select Send, on the new phone, "Get." Connect to one Wi-Fi network and follow the instructions. To port WhatsApp: Back up chats on the old phone. Copy folder /sdcard/WhatsApp/Databases Install WhatsApp and restore the data from the copy.