Buying a new device from a Chinese giant is always an exciting moment, but unpacking is just the beginning of a journey: once you turn on, you’re not just faced with a clean desktop, but with a complex MIUI or HyperOS ecosystem that requires a competent configuration. Many beginners make the mistake of missing the critical steps of initial screen calibration and account settings, which in the future leads to reduced autonomy and inconvenience in use.
The initial initialization process takes 15 to 30 minutes, but the time spent will pay off with stable operation of the device throughout its life. Unlike “pure” Android, the shell from Xiaomi contains many preinstalled services that you either need to activate or disable depending on your needs. Proper configuration from scratch allows you to avoid intrusive advertising in system applications and ensure the maximum speed of the interface response.
In this guide, we will take each step of activation, with a focus on data security and energy optimization, learn how to synchronize contacts, set up biometrics and, most importantly, how to get rid of unnecessary software “garbage”, and following this instruction will turn your new device into a perfectly debugged tool for work and entertainment.
Primary activation and choice of interface language
After a long press of the power button, the device greets you with the Mi or Xiaomi logo. The first screen suggests choosing the system language. Despite the apparent simplicity, this is where the foundation of future work is laid. If you plan to use a smartphone in the Russian segment, make sure that you choose Russian, since this depends on the layout of the default keyboard and the format of the display of dates.
It is strongly recommended to use a wireless connection, not mobile Internet, especially if you are setting up a modern flagship with a large amount of data for initial synchronization. A stable communication channel is necessary for quick verification of security updates and activation of Google services.
If a message appears on the screen to insert SIM-Now, if you're not ready to do this, many models let you skip this step by selecting the appropriate option in the corner of the screen, but for full messengers and two-factor authentication, you'd better install the SIM card before you start setting up. After connecting to the network, the system will automatically check for firmware updates.
⚠️ Warning: Do not interrupt the update download process, even if it seems too long. Interrupting system files during the activation phase can lead to a software failure that requires flashing through the computer.
In some regions, confirmation may be required at the first activation. SMS. Make sure yours is yours. SIM-The card is active and has a positive balance or a tariff with free incoming messages is connected. Without successfully passing this stage, access to the desktop will be limited.
Log in to Mi Account and Google Ecosystem
The next critical step is authorization, and the system will ask you to log in to your Mi Account, which is not just a formality, but a key to cloud storage, device search and note synchronization. If you already had a phone from this brand, just type in your username and password. If not, create a new profile by linking it to your phone number or email.
And in parallel, you're logging in to Google's services, which is essential for the Google Play Store, YouTube, Gmail, and the navigator, and when you move from an old Android smartphone, you're going to have the system restore data from your Google backup, which is a convenient way to migrate your contact list, your call history, your apps.
During the account setup process, you will be asked to accept or reject various data usage agreements. Carefully read the paragraphs regarding advertising personalization and diagnostic data transfer. To improve privacy, it is better to disable the transfer of usage and diagnostic data to Xiaomi and Google, unless you plan to participate in product improvement programs.
- 🔑 Mi Account is required for Find Device and Cloud Gallery.
- 📧 Google account is required to install apps from the official store.
- ☁️ Contact sync will save your numbers if your phone is lost or broken.
- 🔒 Two-factor authentication significantly improves the security of your data.
Once logged in, the system may suggest setting up Google Pay (or Google Wallet) for contactless payment. Follow the on-screen instructions by adding a bank card. This will take no more than a minute, but eliminate the need to enter card details in each application separately.
What to do if you forget your Mi Account password?
Setup of biometrics and security parameters
Xiaomi’s current smartphones are equipped with fingerprint scanners built into the screen or on button, as well as facial recognition systems. Setup biometrics is not only a matter of convenience, but a necessity for the protection of payment data. The system will prompt you to scan your fingerprint; do this in good light and change the angle of the finger to cover all the edges of the pad.
Face recognition in budget and mid-range models works through a front-facing camera and is less secure than a fingerprint scanner, as the data is stored in an open form rather than in a secure module. However, for quick unlocking, it is a handy tool. Security settings recommend setting a complex digital password or a graphical backup login method.
Special attention should be paid to the section "Security" -> "Privacy", where you can configure permissions for applications, for example, a flashlight should not have access to your contacts, and a calculator should not have access to geolocation, control over these parameters prevents leakage of personal information.
| Protection method | Level of security | Speed of operation | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finger scanner | High-pitched | Instant. | Basic method |
| Face ID (2D) | Medium. | Fast. | Additionally. |
| Pin code. | High-pitched | Slow. | Standby |
| pattern lock | Medium. | Medium | For the amateur. |
Remember, once you reboot your device, biometrics don't work until you manually type in your digital password, which is the standard Android security behavior designed to protect your data in the event of a device being taken away.
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When setting up your fingerprint scanner, add the same finger twice as different profiles, which will increase the likelihood of successful unlocking if the finger is slightly wet or dirty.
Optimizing the display and eliminating advertising
The screen is the face of the smartphone, and the right setting is eye comfort. In the Settings menu -> Screen, first activate the Vision Protection or Reading mode, which removes the blue spectrum of radiation, which is especially important for evening use, as it reduces the strain on the retina and improves sleep quality.
One of the main complaints users have is advertising in system applications. To get rid of it, you need to do several things. Go to the settings -> passwords and security -> access to personal data and turn off msa (MIUI System Ads). The system will ask you to wait 10 seconds - this is a security mechanism, just wait for the end of the timer and confirm the withdrawal of permission.
You should also go through the built-in apps: Music, Conductor, Cleanup, and in each of them, find the settings for "Receive recommendations" or "Show ads" and deactivate it, which will remove banners from the news feed and pop-ups.
- 📉 Disabling MSA Removes 90% of System Advertising.
- 👁️ Update 60 Hz saves battery, 120 Hz makes the interface smoother.
- 🌙 Dark theme does not work in all applications, but saves charge on the Internet. AMOLED-screen.
- 📱 The size of the font and interface elements can be changed in the section "Additional».
For AMOLED-In the case of the most modern Xiaomi models, it is recommended to enable the function “Dark mode” constantly. This not only saves energy, but also prevents the possible burnout of pixels with prolonged static images of bright elements.
☑️ Screen settings
Battery setup and performance
Autonomy is a key parameter for any mobile device. Immediately after purchase, the battery can run out faster than usual, as the system indexes files and learns how to use algorithms. However, the right setting will help to extend the life of the battery. Go to the Battery section and select the performance mode. For everyday tasks, Balance mode is optimal, which provides a good response without excessive power consumption.
An important aspect is to control the autorun of applications. By default, many programs try to start immediately after the phone is turned on, using resources in the background. Go to the battery settings -> autorun and leave only messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) and alarms on. Social networks and stores can be safely turned off - they will start when you open them yourself.
The Memory Optimization feature in the Security app allows you to clear RAM with a single click. While modern versions of Android can manage memory themselves, manual background cleaning on the MIUI shell sometimes helps if the phone starts to slow down after installing heavy games.
⚠️ Warning: Do not install third-party Task Killers apps from the Play Market. They conflict with Xiaomi’s built-in optimization system, resulting in accelerated battery discharge and unstable system performance.
Also, pay attention to the Adaptive Charging feature, which if you turn it on, your smartphone will learn your sleep patterns and charge the battery up to 80 percent quickly, and the remaining 20 percent will be slowly taken by the time you wake up, which greatly extends the life of the battery's chemical cell.
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The main secret of long battery life is to control the auto-start of applications and use the original charger.
Installation of necessary applications and finalization
Once you’ve completed all your system settings, it’s time to fill your smartphone with content. Open Google Play Market and start installing the software you need. Install instant messengers, browsers, and antivirus first (although Xiaomi’s built-in Security is usually enough for basic protection).
Owners of new models that don’t have Google services pre-installed (in some global versions) need to be careful. However, in 2026, most Xiaomi devices come with a full set of Google services out of the box. If you have a CN Version model, installing services is better done through the built-in installer in the App Installer app.
Don't forget to check the Updates section in the settings again. It often happens that while you're setting up your phone, a new cumulative update comes out that fixes the small bugs of the first batch of firmware. Installing the current version of the software is the best way to avoid application compatibility issues.
As the final touch, adjust the controls. Go to "Advanced" -> "Fullscreen" and choose gesture control instead of the three buttons at the bottom of the screen, which will free up useful display space and make using your smartphone more modern and convenient.