Xiaomi Redmi 8 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of 2019, which is still actively used. But many owners do not fully understand what MIUI is, how it affects the operation of the device and how it differs from standard Android. This shell is a key element of the Xiaomi ecosystem that determines not only the appearance of the interface, but also the functionality, performance and even security of the smartphone.
If you’ve just bought a Redmi 8 or are considering buying one, it’s important to understand what MIUI offers, how to update it properly, what versions it supports, and whether it’s possible to get rid of. In this article, we’ll go into detail about everything from basic concepts to hidden features and potential problems that users face.
What is MIUI and why is it needed on Xiaomi Redmi 8?
MIUI (pronounced "Mai Yuai") is a proprietary shell from Xiaomi that runs on top of the Android operating system. It completely replaces Google's standard interface by adding unique features, design and optimizations. Redmi 8 out of the box has MIUI 10 installed on Android 9 Pie, butlater device has received updates to newer versions.
The main objectives of MIUI are:
- 🎨 Improved design – smoother animations, themes, adaptive icons.
- ⚡ Optimizing performance – reducing the load on the processor and battery.
- 🔒 Additional security features – built-in antivirus, call blocking, application protection.
- 🌍 Localization for different regions – support for multiple languages, adaptation to local services.
- 📱 Integration with Xiaomi ecosystem – synchronization with smart devices, Mi Cloud.
Without MIUI, the Redmi 8 smartphone would run on Android naked, without many useful features, such as the standard firmware does not have dual apps (cloning messengers), read mode for eye protection or quick responses to notifications. However, the shell has drawbacks, which we will discuss below.
What version of MIUI supports Xiaomi Redmi 8
Xiaomi Redmi 8 was released in October 2019, and its support officially ended in 2022.However, the device received several major updates to MIUI. Here is the full list of versions that came out for this model:
| MIUI version | Android version | Release date | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIUI 10 | Android 9 Pie | October 2019 | The original firmware out of the box, the basic set of functions. |
| MIUI 11 | Android 9/10 | December 2019 | New design, dark theme, improved multitasking. |
| MIUI 12 | Android 10 | June 2020 | Animations based on physics, super wallpaper, improved privacy. |
| MIUI 12.5 | Android 10 | March 2021 | Optimize performance, reduce the weight of the system. |
The latest official version for the Redmi 8 is MIUI 12.5 based on Android 10. Updates to Android 11 or MIUI 13/14 of this model were not received due to hardware restrictions (Snapdragon 439 processor and 2/3 GB of RAM). However, enthusiasts create custom firmware, for example, based on LineageOS or Pixel Experience, but their installation requires unlocking the bootloader and skills to work with fastboot.
Check out the current MIUI version on your Redmi 8 from Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. If it says something like V12.5.1.0.QCNMIXM, it means you have MIUI 12.5 installed for the Global ROM.
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If the firmware name has the letters CN (e.g. V12.5.1.0.QCNCNXM), it is the Chinese version of MIUI. It is better not to use it, it contains many unnecessary Chinese services and can work unstablely.
How to upgrade MIUI to Xiaomi Redmi 8: step-by-step instructions
Updating MIUI to Redmi 8 can be done in two ways: through Settings (automatically) or manually, downloading firmware from the official website. The first method is easier, but not always available - if your version is outdated, the system may not offer new updates.
Automatic update:
- Open Settings → About the phone → System update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If a new version is available, click Download (Wi-Fi or mobile internet is required).
- After downloading, select Install and wait for the reboot.
Manual updates via Recovery:
Download firmware from MIUI Download | Check the device model (old models: olive, olivelite, olivewood) | Charge the phone at least 50% | Copy the firmware file (.zip) to the root of the memory |
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If the automatic update does not work, download the firmware manually:
- Go to MIUI Download website.
- Select Redmi 8 (codename: olive for NFC or olivelite without NFC).
- Download the latest stable version (Recovery ROM).
- Transfer the.zip file to the root folder of internal memory.
- Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update → Three Dots (menu) → Select a firmware file.
- Specify the downloaded file and confirm the installation.
What to do if the update is suspended?
Problems MIUI Xiaomi Redmi 8 and how to solve them
Despite the optimization, MIUI on Redmi 8 can run unstable, and users often face the following problems:
- 🐢 Brakes and lags - especially after upgrading to MIUI 12.5. Cause: Lack of RAM (2-3 GB).
- 🔋 Fast battery discharge - background processes MIUI heavily consume.
- 📶 Mobile network problems – signal is lost or not working 4G.
- 🚫 Update errors – for example, “Failure to check the update».
- 📱 Overheating – especially when charging or playing.
Decisions:
- For brakes: Turn off animations in Settings → Special features → Remove animations or perform factory reset.
- For battery: activate Power Saving Mode and turn off the background activity of applications in Settings → Battery → Battery Optimization.
- For the network: reset the network settings in Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings.
- For update errors: download the firmware manually (see instructions above) or use the Mi Flash Tool to install via Fastboot.
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If the phone is slowing down after upgrading to MIUI 12.5, try retracing to MIUI 11. You need to download the old firmware and install it through Recovery.
⚠️ Note: If you want to move back to an older version MIUI, note that this may result in the bootloader being blocked.Be sure to back up the data through Settings before the procedure → Additionally. → Backup and reset.
Can I install a pure Android instead of MIUI on Redmi 8?
Many users want to get rid of MIUI because of ads, apps or brakes. On Redmi 8, this is possible, but requires unlocking the bootloader and installing custom firmware.
- 📱 LineageOS – pure Android without unnecessary add-ons.
- 🎨 Pixel Experience – firmware with an interface, like on Google Pixel.
- ⚡ Havoc-OS - customizable firmware with many settings.
- 🔒 CrDroid – Optimized version for weak devices.
Step-by-step:
- Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool (you will need a Mi Account and wait 7-14 days).
- Install custom Recovery (such as TWRP).
- Download firmware (like LineageOS) and GApps (Google services).
- Boot to TWRP, do Wipe (data cleanup) and install firmware.
⚠️ Attention: Installing custom firmware will void warranty and may result in a brick device. If you don't have experience, it's best to trust it to professionals or use it. MIUI with disabled advertising (via Settings) → Password and security → Autostart. → Turn off the adverts).
Hidden MIUI features on Redmi 8 you didn't know about
MIUI hides a lot of useful things that are not obvious at first glance.
- 🔍 Search by Settings – Swipe down on the Settings home screen and type in a query (e.g., “Developer Mode»).
- 📲 Double touch to wake up - turn on Settings → Lock screen → Double touch to wake up.
- 🔊 Amplify the sound in the headphones - activate Settings → Sound. → Headphone booster.
- 📁 Hidden folders – in Explorer swipe right and select Hidden Files.
- 🔄 Quick switch between apps – swipe left on the bottom navigation bar.
Another useful feature is One-Hand Mode, which reduces the size of the interface to make it easier to control a large screen with one hand. It's included in Settings → Additional → One-Hand Mode.
For experimentation enthusiasts, MIUI has Developer Mode. To activate it, go to Settings → About Phone and 7 times click on the MIUI Version. After that, a new section with advanced settings will appear in Settings →
- Disable animations (Window animation scale = 0.5x).
- Enable USB debugging to work with ADB.
- Change the DPI (screen density) to reduce interface elements.
MIUI vs. Android: What’s Best for Redmi 8
The choice between MIUI and pure Android depends on your priorities. Let's compare the pros and cons of each option:
| Criteria | MIUI | Pure Android (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) |
|---|---|---|
| Productivity | May be slowing down due to background processes | Smoother work, less load |
| Functionality | Lots of unique chips (double applications, power saving modes) | Minimalist set, but more stable |
| Updates | Official support is over (last version: MIUI 12.5) | Regular updates from the community (but not always stable) |
| Security | Built-in antivirus, but a lot of data collection | Less surveillance, but you need to monitor your own security |
| Customization | Themes, wallpapers, icons (but limited) | Full freedom (you can change fonts, animations, core) |
Who's good for MIUI?
- 👍 Those who value additional features (app cloning, energy saving modes).
- 👍 Beginners who don’t want to mess with firmware.
- 👍 Owners of other Xiaomi devices (such as smartwatches or lamps).
Who is suitable for pure Android:
- 👍 Those who want maximum performance on weak iron.
- 👍 Advanced users willing to sacrifice stability for customization.
- 👍 People who are annoyed by advertising and data collection MIUI.
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If you are not willing to risk stability, it is better to stay on MIUI 12.5 and optimize it (disable ads, remove unnecessary applications, use light launchers).