The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro is still one of the brand’s most popular smartphones due to its price-performance balance. However, even experienced MIUI users sometimes miss key points when setting up this device. Unlike the new models with MIUI 14+, the Note 8 Pro runs on earlier firmware versions, which requires a special approach to optimization.
This article will not just list the standard activation steps — we will reveal the hidden features of MIUI 12.5 (the latest stable version for the Note 8 Pro), which the manufacturer does not advertise, but which can significantly improve the experience of use. From adjusting performance for gaming to fine-tuning the autonomy — here you will find everything you need to fully work with the device.
First Initiation and Basic Activation
After removing the smartphone from the box, many users rush to use immediately, skipping important steps of the initial setup. On the Redmi Note 8 Pro, this is fraught with problems with the Mi Account or the wrong sensors.
Connect the charger (preferably original on 18W) and hold the power button until the Redmi logo appears. At the stage of choosing the language, pay attention to the region - it is optimal for Russia to specify Russia (RU) to avoid problems with Google Services and localization of system applications.
- 🔌 Charging before setting up: Make sure the charge level is at least 30%. Note 8 Pro is sensitive to deep discharge on first inclusions.
- 🌍 Region and language: Selection Russia automatically activates support for Yandex.Weather and Mi Pay (if available).
- 🔐 Mi Account: Without Xiaomi account binding, you won’t be able to use Find Device and cloud backup.
⚠️ Warning: If you bought your phone with your hands, be sure to reset to factory settings (Settings) → The phone. → Previous owner could have linked the device to his Mi Account, which will block access to some features.
Optimize MIUI 12.5 for maximum performance
Redmi Note 8 Pro is equipped with a processor Mediatek Helio G90T, Which, when set up correctly, performs as well as Snapdragon. 730G In synthetic tests, but by default. MIUI Limits productivity to save charge.
To unlock the full potential of the chipset, go to Settings → Special Features → Application Permissions → Autostart and disable Autostart for unnecessary services (such as Mi Video or Mi Music).
- Open Settings → Battery and Performance.
- Select Performance Mode (not to be confused with Game Mode!).
- Enable the option to Speed up the system (reboot required).
| Setting up | Recommended value | The effect |
|---|---|---|
| Window animation | ×0.5 or Off. | Accelerate application opening by 15-20% |
| Background activity | Limiting for unnecessary applications | Increased working hours to 2-3 hours |
| Dark subject matter | AMOLED Black (via Themes) | Reducing eye load and saving charge |
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If your phone starts warming after changing your performance settings, check the background through Settings → Apps → Running. Often, unoptimized games or instant messengers like Telegram with autoloading media enabled are causing overheating.
Screen setting: color reproduction and refresh rate
6.53-inch IPS LCD-The Redmi Note 8 Pro screen supports a refresh rate of 60Hz, but by default the color profile is set to Auto, which is not always optimal:
Settings → Display → Color scheme and select sRGB. This will reduce the saturation of colors, but make them more natural. For gamers, it is better to leave Saturated, as it visually increases contrast in dynamic scenes.
- 🔄 Update frequency: 60 Hz (no other values supported).
How to turn on hidden reading mode?
Security: fingerprint, face unlock and encryption
The Redmi Note 8 Pro features a side-finger scanner and facial unlock support, but by default these features are not optimal, for example, the fingerprint scanner may not work the first time because of too strict recognition settings.
To improve accuracy:
- Delete all saved fingerprints (Settings → Password and Security → Fingerprint).
- Add the same finger three times at different angles (such as a pad, side, and wet finger).
- Enable the option Improved recognition (will appear after adding 3+ fingerprints).
⚠️ Note: If you use device encryption (Settings) → Additionally. → Encryption, note that this will reduce productivity on the 10-15% Due to the hardware limitations of Helio G90T. Encryption is only useful when storing confidential data.
Added fingerprint with 3+ variation|Face unlock activated (for home use only)|Installed PIN-backup|Disabled display of notifications on the lock screen-->
Network and Communication: 4G, Wi-Fi and GPS
Redmi Note 8 Pro is supported by 4G LTE Cat.12, But by default, it can work. 3G To save charge, to force activate 4G:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Preferred type of network.
- Choose 4G (preferably).
- Activate VoLTE and VoWiFi (if supported by the operator).
To improve GPS reception (relevant for navigators and geolocation games):
- 📡 Download the latest data A-GPS: Settings → Additionally. → Accuracy of location → Download the data GNSS.
- 🔄 Enable High Accuracy in Location Settings (but this will increase battery consumption).
- 📱 Use the app. GPS Status & Toolbox for compass calibration.
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If your smartphone is not catching the network indoors, try turning off Quick Network Switching in Wi-Fi settings. This feature can cause conflicts when the signal is weak.
Camera: Hidden functions and optimization of shooting
The Redmi Note 8 Pro quadruple camera (64 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP + 2 MP) is capable of more than it seems. For example, the Samsung GW1 main sensor supports 9-in-1 pixel binning, which allows you to take high-quality pictures in low light conditions, but this feature is hidden in the standard interface.
To activate it:
- Open the Camera app.
- Go to Pro Mode (slider at the top).
- Touch the badge. ⚙️ → Permission → 16 MP (this is the binning mode).
| Mode of shooting. | Hidden setting | The effect |
|---|---|---|
| Night mode. | Hold the 3 sec down button for manual exposure | Increased detail by 30% |
| Portrait | Turn on Natural Lighting in the Settings | Fewer artifacts at object boundaries |
| Video 4K | Activate Ultra Stabilization in Manual Mode | Smooth video even when walking |
Autonomy: How to extend battery life
The Redmi Note 8 Pro's battery capacity is 4,500 mAh, but without optimization, the smartphone barely reaches the end of the day. The main charge eaters are background MIUI activity and unoptimized applications.
- 🔋 Background Limitation: In Settings → Battery → Battery use set limits for social networks and instant messengers.
- 🌙 Dark subject. + AMOLED Black: Saves up to 15% charge when used actively.
- 📶 Modem mode: Turn off Permanent Network Retention in Settings SIM-map.
- ⚡ Fast charging: Use the original unit on 18W — Unoriginal can reduce battery capacity.
⚠️ Warning: If your phone is running out of more than 20% overnight on standby, check application activity through adb shell dumpsys batterystats. A common cause is com.miui.analytics, which can be turned off via Settings. → Annexes → Application management → System (developer rights required).
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For maximum autonomy, activate the Super Battery in Settings → Battery → Battery Modes. This mode disables background synchronization and limits performance, but extends the running time to 1.5-2 times.