How to launch the new Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 smartphone: full instructions from unpacking to optimization

Buying a new smartphone is always an exciting event, especially when it comes to a proven model like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9.This device, released in 2020, is still a topical choice due to its balanced characteristics: the MediaTek Helio processor. G85, A capacious battery at 5020 mAh and a quadruple camera with a main module at 48 MP. However, even such a reliable device requires the correct first start to unleash the full potential and avoid typical beginner mistakes.

Many users mistakenly believe that it is enough to insert SIM-A map and turn on the phone, but that's just the tip of the iceberg, and a misset can lead to a battery drain, lag in the system, or even security vulnerabilities. In this article, we’ll break down the step-by-step algorithm from unpacking to fine optimization that will help your Redmi Note 9 work like a clock:

We'll focus on the nuances that the manufacturer often doesn't mention, like why you shouldn't miss the update. MIUI Immediately after activation, how to properly calibrate the battery in the first days of use, and what security settings should be enabled manually. Even if you are an experienced user, you will find useful life hacks here – for example, how to turn off advertising in the corporate shell without root rights or how to transfer data from an old phone without loss.

Preparation for the first turn on: what to do before launch

Before you press the power button, make sure you follow all the preparatory steps.This will save time and eliminate the need to restart the setup process.

Check the configuration - in the box with Redmi Note 9 should be:

• 📱 Smartphone in protective film (do not remove it immediately – it protects the screen from scratches during settings)
• 🔌 Charger (18W, type USB-C)
• 📶 Cable USB-C → USB-A (1m long)
• 📄 Short guide and warranty card
• 🔑 Paperclip for the tray SIM-maps (often attached to documentation)

If something is missing, don't turn on your phone - go to the store for a replacement. Especially critical is the lack of a charger: using unoriginal power supplies can lead to overheating of the battery or slow charging.

Make sure you're fully equipped.|Charge your phone to at least 30%|Prepare. SIM-Nano-SIM and/or microSD card|Find a paperclip for the tray|Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network (password at hand)-->

Pay attention to the tray for SIM-map: Redmi Note 9 circuit-support 2 nano-SIM + 1 MicroSD means you can use either two. SIM-card SIM + If you plan to expand your memory, prepare a microSD class in advance. UHS-I (U1/U3) — Slower cards will slow down file recording.

⚠️ Note: Do not use memory cards with a capacity of more than 512 GB - shell MIUI The best option is 128-256 GB from proven brands (SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston).

2. First on and basic setting MIUI

Now, to the activation process itself, press and hold the power button (on the right side) until the Redmi logo appears. The first turn on can take up to 2-3 minutes, which is normal, since the system conducts an initial diagnostic of the hardware.

After downloading you will be met by the master of settings MIUI. Follow the instructions on the screen, but be careful in the next steps:

1. Language and region choice: Install Russian (Russia) – this is important for Xiaomi services (such as weather or voice assistant) to work correctly. If you choose another region, some features may be limited.
2. Wi-Fi connection. Use your home network, not mobile internet, so you save traffic and avoid crashes when downloading updates. If Wi-Fi is not available, skip this step and return to it later in Settings → Wi-Fi.
3. Log in to Mi. Many users make the mistake of missing this step. Without linking to Mi, you won't be able to use a cloud backup, find a phone when you lose it, or receive updates. OTA. If you do not have an account, register it directly on your phone (you will need an email or phone number).
4. Fingerprint customization and Face Unlock. On the Redmi Note 9, the fingerprint scanner is located on the back (under the camera).Add at least one print - this will speed unlocking. Face Unlock works slower, but can be useful in gloves.

At the "Personalization" stage, the system will suggest selecting a theme for the design "MIUI Default" - third-party themes can slow down the interface. All additional settings (fonts, icons) can be changed later in Settings → Topics.

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If the setup wizard is stuck in the Prepare Device phase, don't restart the phone! Wait 10-15 minutes, sometimes the system syncs data with Xiaomi servers for a long time. If after that time nothing has changed, extract SIM-map and try again.

3. Update MIUI: Why is it critical to do it right away?

Once you've completed the initial setup, the first thing you need to do is check for system updates, and even if the phone is new, it may have an outdated version. MIUI, For example, in the early builds for the Redmi Note 9, there was a problem with the processor overheating during long-term video shooting.

To update the system:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click "Check Updates."
3. If you have a new version, download it (preferably via Wi-Fi).
4. After download, click "Install" and wait for the reboot.

The upgrade process will take 5-15 minutes depending on the size of the packet. Don't interrupt it or turn off the phone! If the battery is less than 50% dead, plug in the charger.

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi Note 9 offers an upgrade to MIUI 14, but it runs on Android 10 - this is a mistake of Xiaomi servers. Don't install such an update! First check the current version of Android in Settings → The phone. MIUI 14 requires at least Android 12.

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Updating the system not only adds new features, but also closes security vulnerabilities. MIUI 12.5 a critical vulnerability that allows attackers to access files via Bluetooth was fixed.

4. Battery Optimization: How to Prolong Battery Life

The Redmi Note 9 has a 5020 mAh battery, but without setting it up properly, it only lasts 1-1.5 days when used actively. To increase battery life, follow these steps:

Calibration of the battery in the first 3 charging cycles.

• 🔋 Charge your phone to 100% and leave it on charge for another 1-2 hours (even if the indicator shows a full charge).
• 📉 Discharge to 0% (until the phone turns off on its own).
• 🔌 Repeat the charging/discharge cycle 2 more times.

This will help the battery controller to more accurately determine the actual charge level.

Configure the energy saving mode.

Go to Settings. → Battery and productivity → Battery mode and select:

• 🔄 "Balanced is the best option for most users.
• 🐢 "Energy saving – if you want to maximize the time of operation (limits productivity).
• ⚡ "High Performance – Only for games or resource-intensive tasks.

3. disabling unnecessary background processes.

B Settings → Annexes → Application management → Autorun: Turn off autoruns for underutilized programs (e.g. Facebook, TikTok, games) and reduce battery consumption by 10 to 15%.

5. Security setting: protection against viruses and data leaks

Xiaomi is often criticized for collecting user data, but it is in your power to minimize the risks.

1. disable unnecessary permissions for system applications.

Go to Settings. → Confidentiality → Permits and check the rights of the following applications:

• 📍 Mi Location – disable geolocation if you are not using Xiaomi services (e.g. Mi Fit).
• 📸 Camera – disable microphone access if you are not shooting audio videos.
• 📱 Security – Turn off real-time file scanning (this slows down the system).

2. Set a strong password for your Mi Account.

Mi Account is the key to all Xiaomi services, including cloud backups and remote lock. Use a password that is at least 12 characters long with a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Enable two-factor authentication in your account settings.

3. Set up application lock.

B Settings → Passwords and security → Blocking applications add protection PIN-code:

• 💳 Banking applications (Sberbank, Tinkoff, etc.)
• 📧 Mail and messengers (Gmail, Telegram, WhatsApp)
• 📷 Galleries (if you keep confidential photos)

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To remove advertising in MIUI without root rights, go to Settings → About the phone, tap 7 times on the line "Version" MIUI", Then go back to the basic settings and open the "Advanced" section, where you can turn off personalized ads.

6. Data transfer from the old phone

If you switch from another smartphone, you can transfer data in several ways, and the most reliable is using the built-in Mi Mover tool, which supports porting from Android, iOS and even some feature phones.

Instructions for transfer via Mi Mover:

1. On both phones, install the Mi Mover app (available on Google Play for Android and the App Store for iPhone).
2. On Redmi Note 9, go to Settings → Additionally. → Mi Mover.
3. Select “I am a new user” on the new phone and “I am an old user” on the old one.
4. Scan it. QR-code from the screen of a new phone with an old device.
5. Select data for transfer: contacts, messages, photos, applications (not all programs are supported!).
6. Confirm the transfer and wait until it is completed (can take up to 30-60 minutes depending on the amount of data).

Alternative methods:

• 🖥️ Connect both phones to your PC, copy files manually (photos, videos, music) and transfer them to the Redmi Note 9.
• ☁️ Cloud Backup: Upload data to Google Drive or Mi Cloud, then download it to your new phone.
• 📲 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Direct: Suitable for transferring small files (received) 1–2 GB).

⚠️ Note: When you migrate applications through Mi Mover, some programs may not work correctly (especially save games.

7. Thin system tuning: hidden possibilities MIUI

MIUI It offers a lot of hidden features that aren’t obvious at first glance.Here are the most useful ones for the Redmi Note 9:

1. Accelerate interface animation.

To make the system work faster:

1. Turn on Developer Mode by tapping 7 times on Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI.
2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
3. Find the settings: "Scale of window animation" → set up 0.5x "Scale of transition animation" → set up 0.5x "Duration of the animator" → Turn it off.)

2. adjusting navigation gestures.

V MIUI 12+ Flexible gesture settings are available:

• 👆 "Go up - return to the main screen.
• 👇 "Swipe down" - opening the notification panel.
• 👈 "Swipe left" - back (can be replaced with swipe right).

To set up, go to Settings. → Display. → Navigation panel.

3. Performance optimization for games.

For gamers in MIUI There is a hidden mode of Game Turbo":

1. Open Settings → Special features → Game Turbo
2. Add games to the list (for example, PUBG Mobile, Genshin Impact).
3. Activate the options: “Performance Mode” – maximizes FPS. "Notifications Blocking – Disables pop-ups during play; Tactile Feedback – Improves vibration response.

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Game Turbo mode reduces processor heat by 5-10°C by optimizing resource allocation, but can reduce battery life by 15-20%. Use it only in resource-intensive games.

8. Installation of necessary applications and system cleanup

After the basic setup, it is time to install the necessary programs and get rid of the pre-installed software (bloatware), which slows down the system.

List of (mandatory) applications for Redmi Note 9:

• 🛡️ Antivirus: Malwarebytes or Bitdefender (lightweight and do not load the system).
• 📁 File Manager: Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer (better than the standard Mi File Manager).

How to remove unnecessary system applications (without root):

Some programs (Mi Music, Mi Video, Mi Browser) cannot be removed by standard means, but you can disable:

1. Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management.
2. Select an unneeded app (such as Mi Browser).
3. Click "Disable" (this will remove all updates and hide the icon).
4. Complete removal will be required ADB (guideline).

If you are willing to go further, you can uninstall system applications through ADB:

adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.videoplayer # Mi Video


adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.player # Mi Music




adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.browser # Mi Browser

Detailed instructions for setting up ADB look FAQ.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up Xiaomi Redmi Note 9