Developer mode on Xiaomi Redmi: how to turn it on and why it is necessary

Developer mode on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is a hidden feature that allows you to access advanced system settings, which can optimize performance, test applications, change network settings, and even unlock features that are not available in the standard MIUI or HyperOS interface. However, many users do not know how to activate it, or are afraid of accidentally disrupting the device.

In this article, we will discuss how to turn on the developer mode on different versions of the firmware, what features it opens up, and what to do if the feature is not activated. We will focus on the nuances for new models of Redmi based on HyperOS, where the process may be different from the usual MIUI. You will also learn how to turn off the developer mode if it is no longer needed, and what risks are associated with changing hidden parameters.

What is a developer mode and why it is needed

Developer Mode is a special Android settings section designed to test and debug applications, hidden by default so that ordinary users do not accidentally change critical system settings. However, for experienced Xiaomi Redmi owners, this mode becomes a powerful customization tool.

It can be used to:

  • ๐Ÿ”ง Speed up the animation of the interface, making the smartphone work visually faster.
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Manually choose the type of network (2G/3G/4G/5G) or to forcefully activate VoLTE.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Turn on the debugging. USB work-in ADB or custom-built.
  • ๐Ÿ“Š Tracking processor and memory usage in real time.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Unlock the bootloader to install alternative OS.

For example, if your Redmi Note 12 is slowing down when you open apps, in developer mode you can turn off transition animation, which will visually speed up the work. Or if the carrier does not support VoLTE, you can force this feature to be enabled through hidden settings.

โš ๏ธ Warning: Changing the settings in developer mode can lead to unstable smartphone operation, overheating or even loss of warranty.Do not change settings unless you are sure of their purpose.

How to enable the developer mode on Xiaomi Redmi: a universal way

The process of activating developer mode on most Xiaomi devices is the same, regardless of the model โ€“ be it Redmi 10, Redmi Note 13 Pro+ or POCO X6. The main thing is to know the firmware version (MIUI or HyperOS), as the path to settings can be slightly different.

Follow this instruction:

  1. Open the Settings app** (the gear icon on the desktop).
  2. Go to About Phone (HyperOS may call About Device).
  3. Find the MIUI version (or HyperOS version) and tap it 7 times in a row.

If done correctly, a new section will appear, Developer options, on some devices, in the submenu Additional.

New "Developers" menu appears in settings |

The notice "You became a developer!" was displayed on the screen |

In the "About the phone" section, you no longer need to click on the firmware version |

The system does not issue errors when trying to open hidden settings-->

On HyperOS models (such as Redmi K70 or Redmi Turbo 3), the path may be slightly different:

Settings โ†’ About phone โ†’ Software Information โ†’ HyperOS version (stamp 7 times)

Features of inclusion on different versions of MIUI and HyperOS

The manufacturer updates the interface regularly, so the process of activating the developer mode may vary depending on the firmware version. Below is a comparison table for different versions of MIUI and HyperOS:

Firmware versionPathway to activationFeatures
MIUI 12โ€“14Settings โ†’ The phone. โ†’ Version. MIUIIt takes 7 taps. After activation, the menu appears in the main settings list.
HyperOS 1.0 (2026)Settings โ†’ About the phone โ†’ Information about the software โ†’ HyperOS versionOn some devices, you need to click on the Build Number.
MIUI for POCOSettings โ†’ The phone. โ†’ Version. MIUIOn POCO F5 and later, you may need to enter a password after activation.
MIUI Global StableSettings โ†’ About phone โ†’ MIUI versionIn English firmware, the notification will be in English.

If nothing happens after 7 taps, check:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Firmware version: you may have a custom build where the path is changed.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Password/pattern lock: Some versions require unlocking the screen before activating.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Rebooting the device: sometimes it helps to re-press after restart.

MIUI 12-14|

HyperOS 1.0|

Custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience, etc.)|

I don't know.-->

What to do if the developer mode is not turned on

Sometimes users have a problem when, after multiple clicks on the firmware version, nothing happens, and the reasons can be different, from system bugs to manufacturer limitations.

1. Check the firmware version. Some devices (e.g. Redmi 9A with MIUI 12.5) need to click on the Build Number instead of the MIUI version.

Settings โ†’ About the phone โ†’ Device Information โ†’ Assembly Number

2. Update system. If you have an outdated version of MIUI, some features may not work properly. Check for updates in Settings โ†’ System Update.

3. Reset settings. In rare cases, a factory reset helps (remember to back up!).

Settings โ†’ Additional โ†’ Recovery and Reset โ†’ Resetting settings

โš ๏ธ Note: On some HyperOS devices (e.g. Redmi) K60 Ultra) Developer mode can be blocked by the manufacturer for certain regions, in which case only unlocking the bootloader through Fastboot will help.

4.Use. ADB-If the standard method doesn't work, you can turn on the developer mode via the computer using the help of the ADB. For that:

  1. Connect your smartphone to your PC and enable USB Debugging (if it has already been activated).
  2. Open the command line and type in: adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.DevelopmentSettings
  3. If the command didn't work, try: adb shell settings put global development_settings_enabled 1
What if the ADB does not recognize the device?
Make sure that your PC has Xiaomi USB Drivers installed. Download them from the official website or through the Mi Flash Tool. Also check if File Transfer (MTP) mode is enabled when you connect to USB. If the problem persists, try another cable or USB 2.0 port (some motherboards do not work properly with USB 3.0 for ADB).

How to turn off the developer mode on Xiaomi Redmi

If you no longer need advanced settings, you can deactivate the developer mode, which is also useful if you sell or transfer a smartphone to another person, so that the device will not accidentally change critical settings.

Methods of shutdown:

  1. Through Settings: Go to Settings โ†’ Developer For. At the top of the screen, switch the developer mode slider to off.
  2. Through Reset: If the menu is gone but you suspect the mode is still active, reset the settings (see previous section).
  3. Through ADB: If the standard method does not work, use the command: adb shell settings put global. development_settings_enabled 0

Once disabled, the Developer section will disappear from the settings menu, but on some firmware, it may remain hidden and reappear after the reboot, in which case only a complete reset will help.

๐Ÿ’ก

Before disabling the developer mode, take screenshots of current settings (such as animation or network settings) to help quickly restore optimal values if you need to activate the mode again.

Useful settings in developer mode for Xiaomi Redmi

Now that the developer mode is activated, let's figure out what settings to change to improve the smartphone experience, and it's important to remember that not all settings are safe, so make the changes consciously.

1. Speed up interface animation. By default, MIUI and HyperOS have animation delays that can be reduced:

  • Window: Animation scale - set 0.5x or Off.
  • Transition: scale animation - set 0.5x
  • Duration of the animator - set 0.5x

2. enable debugging over USB. Necessary for working with ADB, installing custom firmware or data recovery:

Settings โ†’ For developers โ†’ Debugging by USB

After activation, confirm the permission to connect to the computer.

3. Forced VoLTE/VoWiFi enabled: If your carrier supports voice calls over 4G/5G or Wi-Fi, but the function is not activated automatically:

Settings โ†’ For developers โ†’ Enable VoLTE/VoWiFi (if any)

On some devices (Redmi Note 11 Pro)+) This section may be called Improved 4G-challenge.

4. Unlock the bootloader. If you plan to install custom firmware, you first need to unlock the Bootloader:

Settings โ†’ For developers โ†’ Unlocking OEM

โš ๏ธ Warning: Unlocking Bootloader resets all data on the device and may take away warranty.On some models (Redmi) K50 and newer) requires a binding Mi Account and waiting 7-30 days.

5. CPU Optimization: In the Processor section, you can limit background processes or enable 4x MSAA to improve graphics in games (but this will increase the battery load).

๐Ÿ’ก

Change the CPU and graphics settings only if you understand the consequences. Incorrect settings can lead to overheating or rapid battery discharge.

Security and Risks in Using the Developer Mode

Developer mode is a powerful tool, but it also carries potential risks, and careless actions can lead to:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Quick battery discharge (for example, if activated continuously Do not turn off the screen).
  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Overheating of the device (when overclocking the processor or turning off restrictions on background processes).
  • ๐Ÿ“ต Communication loss (incorrect network settings can block) SIM-map).
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Security breach (debugging by USB It can be used for unauthorized access to data).

To minimize the risks, follow these guidelines:

  • ๐Ÿ” Turn off the debugging. USB, when she's not needed.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Do not change the processor settings unless you are sure of their impact.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Check the battery temperature regularly after changes (see Battery Status section).
  • ๐Ÿ“ Record the changed parameters to return them to their original state if necessary.

If after the changes, the smartphone began to work unstable (spontaneous reboots, lags, overheating), reset the settings to factory or return the changed parameters to the original state.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the developer mode on Xiaomi Redmi

Can I turn on the developer mode on a locked smartphone (without a password)?
No, it requires unlocking the screen to activate the developer mode. If you forget your password, reset first via Recovery Mode (hold Power + Volume Up when you turn on).
Why did the developer mode disappear after the HyperOS update?
When major system updates (e.g., from MIUI 14 to HyperOS) reset some settings. You need to re-activate the mode by tapping 7 times on the firmware version. If the menu doesn't appear, try resetting (see section above).
Can I turn on the developer mode through the computer if the sensor is not working?
Yes, if you have previously had debugging enabled USB. Connect your smartphone to your PC and use the command: adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.DevelopmentSettings If the debugging has not been activated, you will have to repair the sensor or use it. OTG-Mouse (on some models Redmi is supported).
What settings in developer mode is it safe to change a beginner?
Novice users are advised to limit their activity to: Reduce animation (0.5x); Enable VoLTE/VoWiFi (if the operator supports); activate USB Debugging (only if necessary); Do not turn off the screen (for example, for navigation); Avoid changes to the Processor, Network and Security sections.
How to return the standard settings of the developer mode?
There are two ways: Manually return all sliders and parameters to the original state (remember or photograph changes). perform a reset via Settings โ†’ Additional โ†’ Restore and reset (application data will be saved, but system parameters will reset).