Incorrectly set time on Xiaomi smartphone can lead to messaging, missed notifications and data synchronization problems, especially after resetting, changing the battery or traveling between time zones. In this article, we will discuss all possible ways to adjust time, from automatic synchronization to manual input, taking into account the features of the MIUI firmware of different versions.
It’s important to understand that on Xiaomi (including Redmi and POCO models), the timing depends not only on the Android version, but also on the regional firmware. For example, on global versions of MIUI, additional synchronization options with Google servers are available, which are not available in Chinese builds. We will look at universal methods that work on all devices, and also point out the nuances for specific models.
Why Xiaomi is losing time: the main reasons
Before you start setting up, it’s worth figuring out why your Xiaomi time may not be displayed correctly.
- 🔋 Weak battery – with a deep discharge (below 3%), the internal clock of the smartphone is reset, and after charging, time can lag for several hours or days.
- 🌍 Time zone change – if you’re traveling, the phone doesn’t always automatically update the time zone, especially when roaming.
- 📡 No network – without a mobile internet connection or Wi-Fi automatic time synchronization (NTP) doesn't work.
- 🔄 Failure after updates - sometimes updates MIUI Reset the date/time settings, especially if the update is interrupted.
- 🛠️ Incorrect developer settings - enabled Debugging mode USB or modified parameters ADB They can block synchronization.
If your Xiaomi regularly resets time after shutting down, it could indicate a hardware problem, such as battery wear or damage to the RTC (Real-Time Clock) chip, which requires a diagnosis at a service center.
Method 1: Automatically adjusting time over a network
The easiest and recommended method is to enable automatic synchronization with NTP servers (Network Time Protocol), which works on all Xiaomi models, including the Redmi Note 12, POCO X5 and Mi 11.
- Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen).
- Go to the section Additional settings → Date and time.
- Activate the switches: 🔄 Auto-Date and Time – The phone will receive data from the operator or Wi-Fi. 🌐 Time zone autodetermination is important for travelers.
If the options are inactive, check your internet connection (mobile or Wi-Fi).
On some MIUI firmware (e.g. Xiaomi 13T), the path may be slightly different: Settings → General → Date and time. If the time hasn’t updated after enabling automatic synchronization, try manually selecting a time zone (see next section).
Is the Internet (Wi-Fi/mobile) connected?
Is the "Date and Time Auto-Determination" mode enabled?
Is the region correctly indicated in the settings SIM-map?
Reload your phone after the changes?-->
Method 2: Manually set date and time
If automatic synchronization doesn't work (for example, because there's no network), you can set the time manually. This method is also useful if you want to temporarily change the date for testing applications.
- Go to Settings → Additional settings → Date and time.
- Turn off the options Autodetermining Date and Time Zone and Autodetermining.
- Click on the Set a date and Set a time to enter values manually.
- To select a time zone, tap the Time Zone line and find your region (e.g. Moscow, GMT+3).
Important! When manually set up, time on Xiaomi won't automatically update, even if you later connect to the Internet. To return automatic mode, turn on the corresponding switches again.
What if your city’s time zone is not on the list?
Features of setting the time on different models Xiaomi
MIUI firmware has several versions, and the path to time settings may vary depending on model and regional build. Below is a table with features for popular devices:
| Xiaomi model | MIUI version | The Way to Time Settings | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10/11/12 | MIUI 12–14 | Settings → Additional → Date and time | There is no synchronization option with Google on Chinese firmware |
| POCO X3/X4/X5 | MIUI 13 for POCO | Settings → System → Date and time | There is a separate switch for synchronization with the operator’s network. |
| Xiaomi 12/13/14 | MIUI 14+ | Settings → General → Date and time | Dual-SIM support: You can select a time zone for each SIM separately |
| Redmi 9A/9C | MIUI 12 (Go Edition) | Settings → System → Date and time | There is no automatic time zone determination option |
| Black Shark 4/5 | JOYUI (based on MIUI) | Settings → Additional → Date and time | Game mode can block automatic synchronization |
If your model is not in the table, use the universal path: open Settings and use the search bar (magnifying glass icon) by entering the query “date and time”.
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Some Xiaomi models (such as the Mi 10T) require a reboot after manual time change to ensure that the changes apply to all system processes, including alarm clocks and notifications.
Problem Solving: Time is lost or not saved
If Xiaomi time continues to go wrong after setting up, try the following steps:
⚠️ Warning: If time is reset after each phone switch off, it may indicate a battery or chip malfunction. RTC. In this case, a replacement of the battery or repair of the motherboard is required.
- 🔄 Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset the network settings. Confirm the reset and restart the phone. Once turned on, check if automatic time synchronization is working.
Firmware update
An outdated version of MIUI may contain time synchronization errors. Check for updates in Settings → About Phone → System Update.
Resetting all settings
If the problem persists, reset to factory settings (Settings → About Phone → Settings Reset) Warning: This will delete all data from the phone, so make a backup beforehand.
Checking the developer's settings
If you have previously enabled Developer Mode, check the settings:
- Open Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (shackle 7 times to activate developer mode).
- Back to Settings → Additional → For developers.
- Make sure that USB Debugging and Fictitious Locations are disabled.
On Xiaomi phones with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi 9, POCO M3), the time reset may be due to an error in the RTC module. In this case, only flashing through Fastboot or replacing the motherboard will help.
How to change the format of the display time (12/24 hours)
Xiaomi uses a 24-hour format by default, but can be changed to a 12-hour format (with AM/PM) for users who are used to the American or British format.
- Open Settings → Additional settings → Date and time.
- Click on the time format line.
- Choose a 12-hour or 24-hour format.
- The changes may require a phone reboot.
On some firmware (for example, on Xiaomi Mi A3 with pure Android), this option is in the Settings section → System → Language and input → Additional → Regional settings.
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Changing the time format does not affect the operation of system functions, but it can affect the display of time in some applications (for example, WhatsApp or Telegram).
More Tips for Working With Time on Xiaomi
Besides the basic setup, Xiaomi has a few hidden time management features:
- ⏰ Double clock on lock screen: If you travel frequently, you can add a second time for a different time zone: Go to Settings → Lock screen. Select additional settings → Double clock, turn on the option and enter the second time zone.
- 🔕 Turning off automatic winter/summer time switching: If you live in a region where daylight saving time has been cancelled (e.g., Russia since 2014), turn off this option in the date and time settings to avoid automatic shifting by the hour.
- 📅 Sync with Xiaomi account: By linking your device to your Mi Account, you can save your time settings in the cloud.This is useful when changing your phone, new devices will automatically pick up your time zone.