How to change the language Xiaomi: a complete guide to MIUI and HyperOS

Changing the interface language on Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO smartphones can be required in a variety of situations: after buying a device from China, when you accidentally reset your settings or just for comfortable use of the gadget on a trip. Modern shells MIUI and the new HyperOS offer wide localization, but the switching process is not always obvious, especially if the menu is already displayed in an unfamiliar language.

In this article, we will look at all the nuances of changing the language, from the standard procedure in the settings to the complex cases with Chinese versions of firmware, where Russian may not be the default language, you will learn how to find the right menu items using only icons, and what restrictions exist in different regions.

Before making any changes, it is important to understand that the system interface is responsible for displaying all texts in standard applications. Changing the language does not automatically translate the content of third-party applications such as WhatsApp or Instagram, as they use their own localization settings.

Standard language change procedure in global versions

For owners of devices that are officially purchased in your region or have a global firmware (Global ROM), the process is as simple as possible and takes less than a minute.

You need to open the Settings app (cog icon) and depending on the current version of the shell, this item may be called differently, but it is easy to recognize by the graphic designation, and then you need to find the section responsible for additional system parameters.

Click on the optional settings (often indicated by three dots or the letter "A" in a circle). In the list that opens, select the first or second position on the top, which is Language and input. This item usually has a globe icon or the letters "A/Z".

In the menu that opens, click on the top line of Language. You'll see a list of all the localizations available. You'll find "Russian" or "English" in the list if you need to switch to Latin, and tap the option you want. The system will instantly apply the changes.

• 🌍 Open the settings menu through the gear icon on the desktop.
• ⚙️ Go to the additional settings section (three dots or extended mode).
• 🗣 Select "Language and input" (first or second in the list).
• ✅ Click on the desired language from the proposed list.

⚠️ Note: If the language has only changed partially after switching (e.g. English is still in the settings), try restarting the device.

Importantly, newer versions of HyperOS may have slightly different menu structures, and language selection is sometimes moved directly to the main settings menu, labeled with a globe icon to make it easier for users who have just activated the device.

Features of Chinese firmware versions (CN ROM)

The situation is very different if you own a smartphone that comes from China, and the Chinese firmware (CN ROM) versions don't initially contain Russian, English or other European languages in the standard set, but you'll see only Chinese characters on the list.

Trying to find Russian in the standard menu of such devices will not lead to anything, since the corresponding language packages are physically absent from the system section, manufacturers focus these devices exclusively on the domestic market of China.

There is a common misconception that it is enough to simply download a translation file and install it as a regular application. This is not true: localization of the system requires changes to the system partition, which is impossible without special rights or flashing.

For such devices, there are two main ways to solve: installing global firmware through a computer (which is difficult and can cancel the warranty) or using special locator applications that force the interface language to change.

Use of applications for language change (MoreLocale 2)

If flashing the device is not suitable for you or seems too risky, you can use the proven method using the MoreLocale 2 utility. This application allows you to activate hidden language packs or emulate their presence.

For the method to work, you will need to download APK-The application file is from a reliable source, as the official Google Play store may not have it. After installation, launch the program. If there is Russian in the list, just select it and click Set.

However, on the modern versions of Android and MIUI Simply pressing a button may not work because of security constraints, and this will require a computer connection and use. ADB-commands granting special rights to an application.

adb shell pm grant me.bunnyj.morelocale2 android.permission.CHANGE_CONFIGURATION

After completing this command, the application should earn a language installation button, which will allow you to translate the settings, notifications and standard applications menu into Russian, even if it is not officially supported.

• 📲 Download and install. APK-MoreLocale 2 file.
• 💻 Connect your phone to your PC in debugging mode USB.
• ⌨️ Enter the command. ADB to grant rights (required once).
• 🇷🇺 Select "Russian" in the list of the application and click Set.

⚠️ Note: The MoreLocale 2 method is a software crutch. If you upgrade the system or reset the settings, the language may fly back to Chinese, and you will have to repeat the procedure.

Change the language during initial setting (Setup Wizard)

Special attention should be paid to the moment of first turning on a smartphone after a reset or purchase. The Setup Wizard is the rare case when you can select a language before logging in.

Immediately after you turn on the welcome screen, take a close look at the interface, usually in the upper right or lower right corner is a globe icon or three dots, and clicking on this element opens up a list of available languages for the start menu.

If you've picked the wrong language and you've already moved to the Wi-Fi step, don't panic. Most of the customizer screens have a back button at the top or bottom to return to the language selection. Look for the left-handed arrow.

Choosing a region called Russia or Kazakhstan often automatically tightens the Russian language interface, even if the device was intended for a different market, although this does not work on all models.

Table of language availability in different regions

Understanding the differences between firmware versions will help avoid disappointment, and here is a comparison table showing what to expect from a device based on its origin.

As you can see from the table, the global and European versions (EEA) are the most user friendly; Chinese versions require intervention to work well outside of China. Indian firmware is in the middle, but often contains Russian.

If the version name has a "T" (e.g. MIUI 14 Global Stable), this may indicate a telecom version that should also support multilingualism.

Frequent problems and their solution

Even if you have Russian on the system, users may encounter problems, such as changing the language in settings, but staying English in the call or message menu, indicating that system resources are out of sync.

In such cases, cleaning the Settings app cache or completely removing system application updates through the application management menu helps. Sometimes the problem lies in the design topic: some third-party themes do not support Cyrillic or Russian item names.

Try to temporarily switch to a standard Classic or Default theme and check if the language has changed in all sections. If the theme blocks language change, removing it will fix the problem.

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Before you change the language, take a screenshot of your current network and Wi-Fi settings. After changing the language, the network names or access point settings may change visually, making it easier to find the connection you want.

It’s also worth considering that some system applications, such as Mi Browser or Mi Video, may have their own, independent language settings within their interface that are independent of the phone’s overall settings.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

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For most users, a standard language change in settings is enough, and the only problems arise with devices from China that require either flashing, using special utilities, or getting used to the English/Chinese interface.

In conclusion, language management on Xiaomi is a simple process, if you understand the origin of your device. Global versions give complete freedom, while Chinese require additional effort for comfortable operation.