Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T, released on the basis of the Snapdragon 665 processor, is still a popular device due to its balance between price and performance. However, over time, the Android operating system and the MIUI shell cease to receive automatic updates “over the air”, which forces users to look for alternative ways to install new versions of the software. Proper installation of firmware allows not only to get fresh security features, but also to significantly speed up the work of the gadget by eliminating accumulated system errors.
The process of reinstalling software may seem difficult for a beginner, but with strict adherence to the algorithm of actions, the risk of damage to the device is minimized. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods: from a standard update through the settings menu to advanced flashing through the computer using the Mi Flash Tool utility. It is important to understand that the choice of method depends on the current state of your device and the region for which the operating system is intended.
Before taking action, you need to understand the responsibility. Any interference in the system partition carries potential risks. Interrupting the process of writing data into memory during flashing can lead to the inability to turn on the device (brick), so preparation is a critical step that should not be ignored under any circumstances.
Preparation of the device and choice of firmware method
The first step is to determine the current version of the system and region. → About the phone and look at the line "Version" MIUI». If you have a global version, you have to put Global (EEA) over the global without unlocking the bootloader will lead to an installation error.
There are two main types of firmware for Redmi Note 8T: Recovery and Fastboot. Recovery version has the extension.zip and is installed directly from the phone or through Mi Flash in Recovery mode. Fastboot version has the extension.tgz and requires a connection to the PC and utility Mi Flash. For the average user who wants to just upgrade, most often enough Recovery method.
Make sure to back up all your important data. Even if you plan to update without losing data, a failure in the process can lead to loss of data. Use Xiaomi Cloud or Google Drive cloud services, or transfer photos and documents to your computer.
Method 1: Update over the air and through the Recovery menu
The safest and easiest way is to upgrade regularly. The system itself checks for new packages and suggests installing them. However, if an automatic update does not come, you can manually run the Settings menu → About Phone → MIUI version. Click on three dots in the corner of the screen and select "Select firmware file."
For this method, you will need to download the current ZIP-archive from official website or verified resources. The file must be placed in the root of internal memory or in a folder downloaded_rom. Once you select the file, the phone will restart and start the installation process. This method only works if the firmware version is newer than the current one and the region matches.
If you can't install automatically, you can use Recovery mode. To log in, turn off your phone and press the Up + Power button combination. From the menu that appears, select the language (English or Russian) and click "Install MIUI.zip" (if the file is already on your phone) or connect to Wi-Fi to download.
☑️ Checklist before the start of firmware
Method 2: Install firmware via Fastboot and Mi Flash Tool
This method is the most versatile and allows not only to update, but also to fully restore the system in case of failure, USB-You also need to download the Fastboot firmware (.tgz extension) and unpack it into the C root folder so that the path is short, for example. C:\rom.
Transfer the smartphone to Fastboot mode, holding simultaneously the buttons Power + Volume Down until the image with a hare in a hat-eared. Connect the device to the PC. Open the Mi Flash Tool, press the button "Refresh" - the program must determine your Redmi Note 8T. In the address bar, specify the path to the folder with unpacked firmware.
At the bottom of the program window, you'll see three options: "clean all," "save user data," and "clean all and lock." The "clean all" mode will clean up your phone's memory completely. Save user data will try to save files, but it doesn't work as smoothly as you change regions. Clean all and lock will return bootloader lock, which is important for banking applications, but can only be used when you're firmware in the same region.
What if the Mi Flash Tool can't see the phone?
Unlocking the bootloader: when it is necessary
Many users face a limitation: you can’t change the firmware region (for example, from China to Global) without unlocking the bootloader. The standard procedure requires submitting an application through the Mi Unlock app on a PC and waiting 7 to 30 days.
The unlocked bootloader gives full access to the system, allowing custom recaps (TWRP) and third-party firmware such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience to be installed. However, this makes it unwarranted and impossible for some banking applications and Google Pay (Mir Pay) to work without additional manipulation of root rights and concealment of modifications.
The unlocking process for the Redmi Note 8T is standard for all Xiaomi devices. Once you get permission in the Mi Unlock app, go to Fastboot mode, connect your phone to your PC and press the Unlock button in the program. All data on the device will be permanently deleted.
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Tip: Before unlocking the bootloader, make sure that the Mi Account associated with the phone does not have two-factor authentication, or you have access to the phone number, otherwise you may lose access to the account after a reset.
MIUI Version Compatibility Table for Redmi Note 8T
Understanding MIUI versions will help you choose the right file to download. The Redmi Note 8T model is codenamed ginkgo. It is important not to confuse it with the regular Redmi Note 8 (codename: ginkgo - the same, but there may be differences in NFC and cameras, although firmware is often cross-regional, but it is better to be careful) or Note 8 Pro (helio).
| MIUI version | Android version | Status of support | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIUI 11 | Android 9 | Outdated. | Basic stable version at the time of release |
| MIUI 12 / 12.5 | Android 10 | Stable. | Improved design, but can work slowly |
| MIUI 13 | Android 11/12 | Current | Optimal balance of speed and function |
| MIUI 14 | Android 12/13 | The latest official | Maximum optimization for older devices |
When choosing firmware, pay attention to the version type: Stable is designed for everyday use, and Developer (Beta) contains new features but may have errors. For the Redmi Note 8T, it is recommended to stay on the Stable branch.
Possible mistakes and ways to solve them
There are a number of bugs that can occur during the firmware process, and one of the most common is the "Can't verify update" when installed via Recovery, which means you're trying to install firmware in another region or older version without completely cleaning up the data. Use Clear All mode in the Mi Flash Tool or do a full Wipe Data reset before installation ZIP-file.
Another common problem is hanging on the Mi logo (bootloop).If the phone is cyclically rebooting, try logging in to Recovery. + Powering) and making Wipe Data → Wipe All Data. If that doesn't work, you'll need to flash it over the Fastboot with a full erasure.
⚠️ Note: If your fingerprint or proximity sensor stops working after the firmware, you may have installed firmware from another model or region where calibration data differ. In this case, only installing stock firmware specifically for your model (ginkgo) through Mi Flash with data cleaning will help.
Users also sometimes experience a “Flash” error. ALL Except data storage" in the Mi Flash Tool, which is interrupted by 90%. USB-Try replacing the cable, sticking it in the port behind the system unit (directly into the motherboard) and reinstalling the drivers. ADB.
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The main rule of successful firmware is the region’s compliance with the current system (or readiness for a complete reset) and the use of the original USB cable.