Buying a new device from the Xiaomi brand or sub-brand Redmi is always an exciting moment, but the first launch can be a test because of the abundance of offers and settings. Modern shells MIUI and HyperOS offer dozens of features that are hidden by default or require manual activation for comfortable use. The correct initial configuration of the gadget will take no more than 20 minutes, but save hours of nerves in the future.
In this detailed guide, we will break down all the steps: from unpacking and insertion SIM-You will learn how to secure personal data, extend the life of the battery and turn a standard Android smartphone into a powerful tool for work and entertainment. Follow the algorithm consistently to avoid missing critical points.
Primary preparation and activation of the device
The first thing you need to do is physically prepare the machine for work. SIM-cards, using a special paper clip from the kit, and make sure that the micro-SIM If the model supports microSD cards, it is also better to insert them before power is turned on so that the system immediately recognizes the additional volume.
Once you turn on the device, select the interface language and connect to the Wi-Fi network. This is a prerequisite, since without the Internet, it is impossible to pass the initial account check and download the user profile. If you’ve used Android before, it will offer you to recover data from the Google cloud or from another phone via Google. QR-code.
☑️ Checklist of Redmi activation
Signing in to Mi Account is an important step, and many people ignore this step, but it allows you to use Find Device, synchronize contacts and notes, and access the themes of your registration. Without being linked to Mi Cloud, some security features will not be available.
Basic Security and Biometrics Setup
Modern Redmi smartphones have powerful security tools that need to be activated first. Go to Settings → Passwords and security and set a strong digital code or pattern lock. Biometrics such as a fingerprint or a face scanner are only a convenient addition, but do not replace the main password completely.
⚠️ Note: When setting up the face unlock (Face) ID) This system will warn you of a lower level of security than fingerprinting, and do not use this method as the only way to protect if your device stores sensitive banking data.
To improve security, enable Two-Stage Verification in your Google account settings, which will prevent unauthorized access to your email and photos even if your password is leaked. It’s also worth activating the device’s encryption, which is on default in new Xiaomi models but requires a pin code installed to work.
Special attention should be paid to setting the access rights for applications. When you first install messengers or banking programs, carefully read permission requests. You should not give the flashlight application access to contacts, but the calculator - the right to geolocate. Control this through the Application Protection section.
Advertising removal and MIUI/HyperOS optimization
One of the main features of Xiaomi firmware is the built-in advertising in system applications. Fortunately, it can be completely disabled for free. Go to Settings → Passwords and Security → Access to personal data and find the msa service (MIUI System Ads). Turn off the slider and wait 10 seconds, then confirm the action.
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After disabling the msa service, advertising in standard applications (Conductor, Downloads, Music) will disappear not immediately, but within 24 hours.
Then you have to go through each system application separately. Open the Security app, click on the gear in the corner, and select Receive recommendations by turning off this option. Similar actions should be repeated in the Themes, Music, Video and Explorer apps. Each of them has a switch in the settings to show promotional materials.
To optimize your system globally, use the built-in Acceleration tool, which clears RAM from background processes. Also in Advanced Settings → For developers (the item appears after 7 clicks on the build number in About Phone), you can rescale the animation from 1x to 0.5x, which will visually speed up the interface.
| Annex | Way to turn off advertising | Name of the switch |
|---|---|---|
| Security | Settings (cogs) | Receive recommendations |
| Topics | Profile → Settings | Showing ads |
| Music. | Settings → Additional | Receive recommendations |
| Downloads. | Three points → Settings | Receive recommendations |
Configuring the interface and controls
Redmi's visuals make your smartphone unique. Go to Settings → Always on screen and lock to set up time and notifications on a black background. It's not only beautiful, it's functional, because it allows you to see information without unlocking the device.
Gesture control is a modern standard to get used to. From the Settings menu → Home screen, select System Navigation. You can adjust the sensitivity of the edges of the screen and the direction of the swipe to go back. If you are used to the three buttons at the bottom of the screen, you can also return this option by selecting the appropriate item.
Don't forget to set up the control panel. In newer versions of HyperOS, the notification curtain and the control center are separated. The swipe on the bottom left opens notifications, and on the right, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and flashlight switches. In Settings → Notifications and status bar, you can return the classic view, where everything is in one place if the new format seems uncomfortable.
Hidden capabilities of the control panel
Working with memory and cloud services
Effective memory management is key to a fast smartphone, and Redmi is responsible for this with its Cleanup app, which analyzes storage, and use Deep Cleanup regularly to remove social media cache and residual files from remote applications.
Cloud services are recommended for photo and video storage. Google Photos offers unlimited storage in "Saving space" mode, compressing images without visible loss of quality. The alternative is Mi Cloud, which is deeply integrated into the system and allows you to synchronize not only the gallery, but also the recorder, notes and desktop.
If internal memory is not enough, use a MicroSD card. In the storage settings, you can choose to format the card as a portable drive, which allows you to transfer media files and documents to it, freeing up internal space for installing heavy applications that are not recommended to put on an external card to avoid brakes.
⚠️ Note: Formatting the memory card as internal memory (Adoptable Storage) in new versions of Android is often unavailable or unstable. It is better to use it as a removable medium for photos and music, so that if the phone breaks, data can be easily transferred to the PC.
Energy saving and battery life extension
Battery is one of the most expensive components of a smartphone, and degradation is inevitable. However, the right setup will help save life. In Battery → Battery Protection, turn on optimized charging. The system will learn your habits and charge your phone up to 80% at night, finishing the rest just before you wake up.
To maximize power savings, set up screen modes. Reduce lockout time to 30 seconds and turn off Always On Display if there is no urgent need. Also check the list of apps that are allowed to run in the background. Redmi can severely limit background activity for programs you rarely use.
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The golden rule of lithium-ion batteries is to keep the charge in the range of 20% to 80%. Full discharges of 0% and prolonged charging 100% accelerate the wear and tear of the battery chemistry.
Use only certified chargers. Xiaomi smartphones support Quick Charge and Power Delivery fast charging technologies. Using cheap analogues can overheat and damage the power controller, which will require expensive repairs.