How to launch the new Xiaomi Redmi phone: a step-by-step guide

Buying a new smartphone is always an exciting moment, especially when you get a fresh Xiaomi Redmi with its stylish design and powerful hardware. However, before enjoying the speed and quality camera, the device must be properly activated and configured. Many users make mistakes in the very first step, skipping critical menu items or forgetting about the basic security of the account.

In this guide, we will take a detailed look at the initial setup process so you can avoid the typical issues of account locking or data loss. Proper initialization of a MIUI or HyperOS system ensures that the gadget will work smoothly in the future. We will look not only at standard steps, but also at hidden nuances that are rarely reported in official manuals.

If you're planning to move information from your old device, or if you want to start with a clean slate, this article will be your roadmap. The first 15 minutes of use determines 90% of the convenience of continued use of your smartphone. Let's prepare your new device for active life.

Initial preparation and testing of equipment

Before you press the power button, you should carefully inspect the device and make sure that it is physically intact. Modern Redmi smartphones often come with a protective film already pasted on the screen, but its quality can vary depending on the region of supply. Carefully check the edges of the case for chips, and charging connectors for dust or oxidation.

Pay special attention to the charger. With new Xiaomi models, high-power units with support for fast charging protocols are often included. Using the original cable and power supply is critical to activating the ultrafast charging claimed in the specifications.

After visual inspection, insert SIM-To do this, use a special clip (included) and carefully press the hidden hole of the tray. Pay attention to the icon next to the slot: in some Redmi models, the tray is combined, and the second one is the same. SIM-You can install the card only instead of a microSD card.

• 📱 Check the screen for the presence of the factory film and possible matrix defects when turned on.
• 🔌 Make sure the charger meets your model’s fast charging standard.
• 📶 Set it right. SIM-map, observing the orientation of the chip so as not to damage the contacts.

Don't try to turn your phone on if it's completely drained. Modern lithium polymer batteries can go into deep discharge when stored in a warehouse for long periods of time. Connect the device to the grid for at least 15-20 minutes before you try to start the system.

Enabling the device and selecting the interface language

Starting the smartphone is carried out by long-term pressing of the power button, which is usually located on the right side of the case. If the screen does not respond immediately, do not panic: sometimes you need to hold the button up to 5-7 seconds.

The first window you'll see is the choice of language, which is a fundamental step, because it determines not only the language of the menu, but also the regional settings, the format of the date, the time and even the services available. For users from CIS countries, the best choice is "Russian" or "Ukransk", which will allow the system to correctly display all fonts and localize voice input.

⚠️ Warning: If you accidentally choose the wrong language, don't worry, you can change it at any time through the settings menu, but the initial setup of Google services can be in English if you don't pay attention.

After selecting the language, the system will suggest connecting to a Wi-Fi network. It is strongly recommended to use Wi-Fi, not mobile Internet, since the initial synchronization of accounts and downloading security updates may require significant traffic.

At this point, the system may suggest an update, and if you see a notification that a new version of MIUI or a security patch is available, agree. The current firmware fixes known bugs and closes vulnerabilities that may have been in the factory version of the software.

Mi Account and Google Ecosystem

The next critical stage is authorization. Android requires a Google account, and Xiaomi's interface strongly recommends (and sometimes requires) you create or sign in to Mi Account. These are two different services, and you shouldn't confuse them: Google's account is for the Play Market store, contacts and mail, and Mi Account is for the Xiaomi cloud, device search and branded applications.

When you sign in to Mi Account, make sure you enter the right data in the right field. Often users enter a login from Google into the Xiaomi field, which leads to an error of registration. If you do not have a Xiaomi account, create it directly on the device, linking it to a phone number or email, it will take no more than two minutes.

When you set up Google services, you'll be asked to restore data from your backup. If you had a previous Android smartphone, the system will suggest moving apps, Wi-Fi passwords and settings. This is convenient, but it may take time. You can choose selective synchronization, leaving only the essentials.

• 🔐 Create a strong password for your Mi Account and write it down in a secure location.
• ☁️ Decide if you need Xiaomi cloud storage for photos and files.
• 📲 Choose which apps and data to transfer from your old device.

Don't miss the security setup stage, where the system prompts you to add a fingerprint or face.Biometrics in Redmi works quickly and greatly speeds up access to banking applications and personal data.

Security and biometrics setting

The security of your new Xiaomi Redmi starts with installing a reliable screen lock method, PIN-code, password or pattern. PIN-6-digit code is considered the optimal balance between security and input speed, whereas complex passwords with letters can be annoying when used frequently.

Next comes the biometrics registration phase, and the fingerprint scanner in modern Redmi models is built directly into the power button, and this ergonomic solution allows you to unlock your phone just by holding it in your hand. When you register your fingerprint, try to touch the scanner with different parts of your finger, including the side faces, to improve your recognition accuracy.

Facial recognition (Face) ID) Redmi is a front-facing camera, but it's less secure than a print, because it can be unlocked with a photograph (although new algorithms are trying to prevent this). ID paired PIN-code for everyday tasks, but do not rely on it to protect banking applications.

⚠️ Note: Do not register your fingerprint if your hands are wet or dirty, as this will reduce the quality of the scan.

Also, at this point, the Find Device function is activated, and make sure the switch is green, so in the event of a phone being stolen or lost, that's the only way to track it or remotely erase it through the web interface.

System update and driver installation

Once set up, the system may suggest installing updates. On Xiaomi smartphones, this can be a multi-step process: first, the system component update package is downloaded, then security patches, and only then the full version of the new MIUI or HyperOS shell, if it comes out after your device is manufactured.

The upgrade process can take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes, during which time the phone will reboot several times. It is critical not to interrupt this process and keep the device connected to charging. Interrupting the recording of system files can lead to a “brickling” of the phone, that is, complete inoperability.

During the upgrade, the system also installs the missing drivers for communication modules, camera and multimedia, which is why after the first turn on, the sound can be quieter and the camera can focus more slowly, after all the updates are completed and one final restart, all the components will start working normally.

If the system says that there are no updates, but you know that a new version has come out, you can check for updates manually through the Settings menu → About the phone → Ver