Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro remains one of the most popular devices of the mid-range, despite the release of newer models. NFC-It's a module and a powerful camera, but out of the box, it's an operating system. MIUI requires a competent initial setting for comfortable use.
The right system configuration will unlock the potential of the MediaTek Helio G90T processor and significantly extend battery life. In this guide, we will discuss all the key steps from initial activation to fine-tuning the interface and camera so that your gadget works quickly and without unnecessary debris.
Many users are faced with an abundance of pre-installed apps and advertising immediately after purchase, which can be annoying. Don’t worry, because all these parameters are controllable. Below is a step-by-step guide that will help turn a standard device into a personalized tool that is sharpened to your needs.
Initial activation and account setting
Once the device is turned on, you will be met by the initial setup wizard, at which point it is critical to choose the right language and region. For users from CIS countries, it is recommended to choose the region "Russia" or "Ukraine", as this affects the list of available services and the operation of some system functions, including weather and news.
Then the system will suggest connecting the Wi-Fi network, which is necessary to activate the device and check for updates. Attention: if you miss the update at this stage, you will have to do it manually later, which may take longer. Once the network is connected, the process of checking and downloading the latest security packets will begin.
The next step is to sign in. Here you have two ways: use an existing Mi Account or create a new one, and log in through Google. Mi Account is required for the Xiaomi cloud, search for a device and use the theme. Google account is required to access the Play Market and sync contacts.
☑️ Primary smartphone setting
Don't ignore the device's security setting. The Redmi Note 8 Pro features a fingerprint scanner located on the back, it's calibrated during the setup process, and it's also recommended that you adjust the face unlock, although this method is less secure than a print, it's convenient for quick access to the notification menu.
Optimizing the interface and removing advertising
MIUI is known for its functionality, but also for having ad integrations in system applications. To get rid of them, you need to do a series of actions in the settings. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Authorization and cancellation. Here you can disable msa, which is responsible for displaying ads.
⚠️ Note: When you turn off msa, the system will warn you several times about the consequences and ask you to wait 10 seconds before confirming. This is done specifically so that the user does not turn off the important component accidentally.
Next, turn off personalized recommendations. Go to Settings → Passwords & Security → Privacy → Advertising Services and turn off Personalized Ads. This won’t remove the ads completely, but will make them less intrusive and tailored to your interests. Also, every system application (Conductor, Music, Video) has its own Receive Recommendations switches that need to be deactivated in the app’s settings menu.
For ease of use with one hand or just for aesthetics, you can change the font size and scale of elements. → Screen. → Text size you can choose a comfortable option. Xiaomi Note 8 Pro has a IPS-screen with good color reproduction, and the correct calibration of fonts will reduce eye fatigue during long reading.
Set up performance and battery
The Helio G90T is powerful enough, but it can be heated by a lot of stress. To control temperature and power consumption, the system has an optimizer built in. In the Security app, go to Battery and select Balanced mode for everyday use. Performance mode should only be enabled in games.
An important aspect is adjusting the background activity of applications. Android and MIUI aggressively unload applications from memory to save charge. If you need messengers or navigator to work in the background without delay, go to Settings → Applications → Application Management, select the desired application, click on “Battery Saving” and select “No Limits”.
| Mode of work | Description | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| Balanced | Optimal ratio of speed and autonomy | Daily use, social networks, browser |
| Productive | Maximum processor frequency, higher than heat | Heavy games, video rendering |
| Saving energy | Limitation of background processes and brightness | When the battery is critically low |
| Ultra | Only calls and text, minimum functions | Survival mode with a discharged battery |
Also worth paying attention to is the memory extension feature. Although the Redmi Note 8 Pro has enough RAM in versions 6 and 8 GB, the system can use some of the internal memory as virtual RAM. This feature is in the About Phone section (click multiple times on the MIUI version to activate additional options if hidden).
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Use a dark theme not only to save battery, but also to reduce eye strain. MIUI has a schedule for turning on a dark theme at sunset and sunrise.
Screen and desktop customization
The visual part is what you interact with most. MIUI offers a huge amount of customization. The Themes app not only allows you to download wallpaper, but also completely change the way the icons, fonts and even the system sounds. The Note 8 Pro has a lot of themes that support Always On Display, although the screen is IPS, not AMOLED, so the Always On Screen feature works in a simplified mode or is emulated.
Gesture control is another important element of the setup. The default can be three buttons. You can switch to gestures from the Settings menu → Additional → Full-screen mode. Gesture control allows you to use the entire display area and makes navigation faster and more modern.
Don't forget to set up Control Panel and Notification Center. In the newer versions of MIUI, they're separated: the swipe on the top right opens the notification curtain, and the swipe on the top left opens the quick settings (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, flashlight). If you're more familiar with the old Android style, where everything was in one place, you can change this in the Settings menu → Notifications and status bar → Control Center by selecting "Old version."
⚠️ Note: When installing third-party launchers (desktop shells), some features MIUI, These things, like hiding apps or double tapping to turn on the screen, may stop working properly. Use a standard launcher for full compatibility.
Set up the camera for the best shots
The 64MP main camera in the Redmi Note 8 Pro is capable of taking great pictures, but only when set up correctly. By default, the camera can use pixel combining mode (binning), giving a photo at 16 MP with better dynamic range. For maximum resolution, switch to 64 MP mode in the camera menu, but remember that these photos take up more space and take worse in low light.
For portrait enthusiasts, it's worth experimenting with depth of field. The camera allows you to adjust background blur both before and after shooting. In camera settings, turn on the grid to follow the rule of thirds when framing, which will greatly improve the composition of your photos.
Secret camera mode
Video is available in up to 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. To stabilize video in motion, it is better to use 1080p at 60 frames, where electronic stabilization works more efficiently, and in the settings you can also enable slow motion to create spectacular videos.
Working with NFC and Data Security
Having an NFC module in the Note 8 Pro allows you to use your smartphone for contactless payment. To set up, go to Settings → Connection and Sharing → NFC. Make sure the switch is activated. In Contactless Pay, select the default app (Google Pay, Samsung Pay or banking app).
Data security is a priority. In addition to unlocking passwords, set up device encryption (usually enabled by default when you install a pin code). In the Security section of the Security app, you can configure file and application hiding, which is useful if you want to hide personal photos or banking applications from prying eyes.
Check system updates regularly. Xiaomi periodically releases security patches and improvements for its devices. Go to Settings → About Phone → Verification of MIUI. If you use the global version of firmware, updates come in steady. On custom firmware (China ROM), updates may come more often, but require manual installation.
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Competent setting of application permissions and regular system updates are the key to a long and safe operation of your Xiaomi Note 8 Pro.