Can Xiaomi be made Huawei: technical tricks and alternatives?

The question of how to turn a Xiaomi smartphone into a Huawei-branded device sounds at least unusual. At first glance, it seems like trying to turn Lada into Mercedes — brands not only compete, but also build on fundamentally different approaches to software and hardware. However, discussions about this topic periodically pop up on the Internet, from jokey memes to “secret” instructions for reflashing. Let’s figure out what is real and what is a myth.

Now, let's just say, it's impossible to completely replace Xiaomi's hardware and software platform with Huawei (Qualcomm/Snapdragon vs HiSilicon Kirin, own shells (MIUI vs EMUI/HarmonyOS) and even unique chips (for example, Huawei is actively implementing technology). NFC and 5G But that doesn’t mean you can’t adapt some features or visually zoom in on the interface. In this article, we’ll look at all the possible ways, from safe to extreme, and assess their risks.

Warning: any manipulation of firmware or hardware can lead to loss of warranty, "bricking" of the device or unstable operation. EMUI, Perhaps you should consider buying a used Huawei smartphone instead of experimenting.

Why do users want to “remake” Xiaomi into Huawei?

At first glance, this idea seems absurd, but it has a logical premise, and here are the most common reasons people give:

• 🎯 Unique functions EMUI/HarmonyOS: For example, Huawei Share (fast file transfer between brand devices), Celestial Blue (low power mode with a unique interface) or AI-camera.
• 🔒 Security and privacy: Huawei is positioning its devices as more secure (especially in China) MIUI Often criticized for collecting data.
• 📱 Design and Ergonomics: Some People Like a Minimalist Interface EMUI compared to "overloaded» MIUI.
• 💰 Savings: instead of buying a new Huawei trying to adapt the existing Xiaomi.

But most of these desires are based on incorrect information: For example, the Huawei Share function only works on devices with a Kirin chip and proprietary drivers — it can not be transferred to Xiaomi even theoretically. The same applies to proprietary camera algorithms: they are sharpened for specific modules Leica or Hasselblad, which are physically absent in Xiaomi smartphones.

But there are some aspects that can be simulated. That's what we're going to do.

Method 1: Installation of the launcher and under EMUI

The safest and most reversible way is to visually simulate Huawei's interface, so you don't have to hack your device or risk firmware, you just need to install third-party launchers and themes.

Here are the top solutions:

• 📱 Lawnchair 2 (with settings under the EMUI): It allows you to customize icons, animations and even gestures, bringing them closer to the corporate style of Huawei.
• 🎨 Huawei EMUI Theme (from Xiaomi Theme Store): Some designers create themes that copy color schemes and fonts EMUI.
• 🔧 Hex Installer (for advanced users): allows you to install custom fonts and icons similar to Huawei.

How to do this:

1. Download Lawnchair 2 from Google Play or F-Droid.
2. Go to Settings. → Annexes → Default Launcher and Select Lawnchair.
3. In the launcher settings, activate the options: Appearance → Icon style → "EMUI-style" Animations → "Smooth unfolding (like in Huawei) Gestures → "Swipe up to open the menu"
4. Set the topic. EMUI from the Xiaomi theme store (not available for all regions).

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ The function remains the same – only the appearance changes.
• ❌ Some system applications (such as Gallery or Settings) will retain the style MIUI.
• ❌ No access to Huawei’s branded services (e.g. Huawei Mobile Cloud).

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If you want to bring the interface as close as possible, disable Xiaomi system icons in the launcher settings and use the icon pack "EMUI Icons from Google Play.

Method 2: Installation of custom firmware with elements EMUI

A more radical method is the firmware of a custom OS, in which elements are integrated EMUI. For example, there are modified versions of LineageOS or HavocOS that add themes and features that resemble Huawei.

Here are the types of firmware that might be suitable:

Instructions for installation (on the example of HavocOS):

Make a backup of data through TWRP|Check the compatibility of the model in the forum XDA|Download firmware and GApps|Charge your phone at least 70 times%|Disable encryption (if any)-->

1. Unlock the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock (instructions for Xiaomi here).
2. Install a custom TWRP recavator for your model.
3. Download the firmware HavocOS from the official website or XDA.
4. Flow through TWRP It's okay. → System, Data, Cache → Install ZIP → Reboot.
5. After installation, set up the theme and gestures in the Settings menu → Havoc Settings → Themes.

⚠️ Warning: Custom OS firmware voids warranty and may result in loss IMEI On some Xiaomi models (for example, with a MediaTek processor), unlocking the bootloader is officially prohibited.

Method 3: Move some Huawei features to Xiaomi

Some Huawei chips can be played on Xiaomi using third-party apps or settings.

1. Branded camera mode (Leica/Hasselblad)

Huawei’s photo processing algorithms are unique, but some of the effects can be replicated:

• 📸 Install GCam with config for your Xiaomi model (look for Celso Azevedo).
• 🎨 Use Snapseed or Lightroom with presets that mimic the Leica style.
• 🔍 Turn on the mode. HDR+ Night Sight in GCam to improve detail.

2. Huawei Share (Fast File Transfer)

Analogues:

• 📲 Nearby Share (built into Android) – works on the same principle, but without being linked to the brand.
• 🔗 LocalSend (open source) – a cross-platform alternative with encryption.
• 📡 Xiaomi Quick Share (in new versions) MIUI) — near-total.

3. Celestial Blue mode (energy saving)

V MIUI There's a similar mode, called Ultra Battery Saver, to activate it:

1. Go to Settings → Battery → Energy Saving Mode.
2. Select Ultra and add the desired applications to the exceptions.
3. For visual similarity, set a dark theme and turn off animations in Settings. → Special facilities → Remove animations.

⚠️ Apps like Huawei Mobile Services or AppGallery won’t work on Xiaomi due to lack of support HMS Attempts to install them could lead to conflicts with Google Play Services.

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Most of Huawei’s “branded” features are a combination of hardware and software solutions, and without iron-level support (like the Kirin chip), they cannot be fully replicated.

Method 4: Hardware modification (extreme case)

This is the riskiest and most expensive method, and it is only suitable for power users, by replacing individual Xiaomi components with Huawei counterparts.

• 📶 Replacement of the module NFC: Some Huawei models support a wider range of contactless payments (e.g. UnionPay in China), however, this requires rationing and can damage the motherboard.
• 🔋 Install a larger battery: If Huawei uses a 5,000mAh battery and your Xiaomi has 4,500mAh, you can try to replace it (but this voids the warranty and can be dangerous!).
• 📷 Camera replacement: physically possible, but requires compatibility between connectors and drivers. IMX700 Huawei P50 The Pro will not work in Xiaomi 12T software-free.

An exemplary algorithm to replace NFC-chip:

1. Buy a donor module NFC from Huawei (e.g. AliExpress).
2. Disassemble the phone by disconnecting the battery (required!).
3. Soak up the old chip and solder the new one (a soldering station and experience is required).
4. Sweeve a modified kernel with support for a new chip (if available for your model).

⚠️ Warning: Hardware modifications can cause permanent damage, such as mal-solding, which can short-circuit and cause the motherboard to fail. Xiaomi and Huawei use different connector standards — physical compatibility is not guaranteed.

If you still decide to take this step, look for detailed guides on profile forums (for example, for example, 4PDA or XDA) And be sure to consult with the electronics repair master.

Myths and Misconceptions: What Cannot Be Done Under Any Condition

There are a lot of "advice" online that are either outdated or impossible at all.

• 🚫 «You can sew it. EMUI Xiaomi: No. EMUI It's designed exclusively for Huawei hardware (Kirin chips, specific drivers), and even if you find a port, it won't work.
• 🚫 «HarmonyOS can be ported – HarmonyOS does not have open source and does not support devices running Snapdragon.
• 🚫 «Replacing the processor with Kirin is technically impossible without a full motherboard replacement (which is equivalent to buying a new phone).
• 🚫 «Installation of Huawei Mobile Services (HMS)» — HMS Core is not certified to work on other brands. Forced installation will lead to errors.

Another common misconception is that Fastboot flashing is something that some users think you can download Huawei firmware in fastboot mode and it will work magically, and in practice, it will lead to:

• Invalid sparse file format at header (image format incompatibility)
• Lost IMEI and serial number.
• "Overworking" of the device (complete inoperability).

If you come across a manual that promises "total conversion," it's likely fraud or viral content. Always check the source!

What to do if you want to do Huawei?

If your goal is to gain experience with Huawei, but buying a new smartphone isn’t part of your plans, consider these options:

• 📱 Buying used Huawei: models like Huawei P30 Pro or Mate 20 Pro is still relevant and are cheaper than the new Xiaomi flagships.
• 🔄 Trade-in exchange: many stores (for example, Svyaznoy or M. Video) take Xiaomi as a credit when buying Huawei.
• 📦 Rent: Some services (such as Rentmania) rent smartphones for a month – you can test it out EMUI buy-in.
• 🖥️ Emulator: Install Huawei Emulator on your PC via Android Studio (official image) EMUI developer-available).

If you just lack specific features, perhaps their analogues already exist in the MIUI — You just have to turn them on:

Before you spend time experimenting, assess whether you really need Huawei features, or if they can be replaced with Xiaomi’s built-in tools.

FAQ: Frequent Questions About Xiaomi’s Transformation into Huawei