Update Xiaomi firmware through Fastboot without data loss: the full guide

Updating the Xiaomi smartphone through the Fastboot mode is a standard procedure for installing official firmware when the standard is OTA-But most users fear this method because they risk losing personal data: photos, messages, app settings. Unlike the classic Recovery reset, Fastboot firmware doesn't always format a partition. /data — But only if you follow strict instructions.

In this article, we will discuss three proven ways to update Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO via Fastboot without losing data, including nuances for devices with a locked bootloader. You will also learn which models support a “painless” update and which will require backup. All instructions are relevant for MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS (2026).

Why Fastboot can erase data and how to avoid it

Xiaomi’s Fastboot mode allows you to flash your device through your computer, bypassing the limitations of a standard update. However, by default, many official firmware (.tgz or.zip) contain a command fastboot erase userdata, which formats the partition with user data. This is not because of an error, but for two reasons:

• 🔒 Conflict Protection: New Versions MIUI/HyperOS may require a clean installation due to changes in the storage structure (e.g., switching to a new storage system) ext4 instead f2fs).
• 📱 Xiaomi Policy: On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Redmi Note 12 Pro)+) Fastboot firmware automatically resets settings to prevent errors.

To get around formatting, you need to either modify the firmware script (by removing the erase userdata command), or use special versions of firmware marked save_data. The second method is safer, but not suitable for all devices.

⚠️ Note: On devices with an unlocked bootloader, the risk of data loss is higher, as the firmware may contain additional commands to reset. DRM-Keys (for example, for the Leica camera on Xiaomi) 12S Ultra).

Preparation for the update: what to do before the firmware

Before you start firmware through Fastboot, follow the mandatory preparatory steps:

1. Check the model and version of MIUI: Go to Settings → About phone. Write down the exact data (e.g. Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, MIUI 14.0.5 Global) to help you choose the right firmware.
2. Download official firmware: Use only files from en.miui.com or Xiaomi Firmware Updater. Avoid third-party sources!
3. Install drivers and tools: 🖥️ Mi Flash Tool (last version for Windows). 🔌 Qualcomm or Mediatek drivers (depending on your device’s processor). 📋 ADB/Fastboot (Android SDK Platform Tools).

Pay special attention to unlocking the bootloader. On Xiaomi devices since 2017, it has been locked by default. If you have never unlocked it through the Mi Unlock Tool, firmware through the Fastboot will not be possible without first unlocking (the process takes up to 72 hours of waiting). SMS-code).

Method 1: Firmware with data saving through a modified script

This method is suitable for users who are willing to manually edit a firmware script. It works on most devices. Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors (e.g. Redmi) K50, POCO F4). For Mediatek (e.g. Redmi Note) 10) The method is not recommended due to the features of the partition markup.

Steps:

1. Unpack the firmware: Firmware file (for example, tissot_global_images_V14.0.5.0.TMIMIXM_20231010.0000.00_12.0_global.zip) Unpack it in a folder. There's a file inside. flash_all.bat (for Windows or flash_all.sh (for Linux/Mac).
2. Open the script in a text editor (like Notepad++ or VS Code) and find the line: fastboot erase userdata Replace it with: rem fastboot erase userdata (for Windows) or add # at the beginning of the line (for Linux/Mac).
3. Save the changes and run the script on behalf of the administrator. The device should be in Fastboot mode (clip Volume Down + Power when the phone is off).

Installation instructions:

1. Download the firmware marked save_data (for example, alioth_global_images_V15.0.1.0.TKHMIXM_save_data_20260310.0000.00_13.0_global.zip).
2. Unpack the archive and launch it. flash_all.bat (scriptless!).
3. Wait until the process is complete (usually 5-10 minutes) and the device will restart automatically.

Important: Marked firmware "save_data" guaranteeless 100% Data security on devices with encrypted storage (MIUI 12+). V 10% In some cases, manual reset via Recovery may be required due to compatibility errors.

Method 3: Backup and Restore with Mi PC Suite

If the first two methods seem risky, the most reliable way is to back up your firmware and restore your data after the update, using the official Mi PC Suite software (download from pcsuite.mi.com).

Advantages of the method:

• 🔄 All data is stored: contacts, SMS, Photos, application settings (except for some system files).
• 🛡️ It works even if the firmware erased the userdata partition.
• 📱 All models are supported Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO (including new ones on HyperOS).

Step-by-step:

1. Install Mi PC Suite on your computer and connect your phone in File Transfer (MTP) mode.
2. In the program, select Backup → Full Backup. The process will take 10–30 minutes depending on the amount of data.
3. Swipe the device through Fastboot (any of the methods described above).
4. After the first download of the new firmware, connect the phone to your PC and select Restore → Select backup.

⚠️ Attention: Mi PC Suite does not save data from some applications (e.g. WhatsApp, Telegram, games) and use built-in backup features (e.g. Settings). → chat → Backup copy on WhatsApp).

1. Reinstall drivers via the Mi Flash Tool ("Driver" button).

2. Use the original USB-cable (not all cables support data transmission).

3. Enable Debugging by USB In Settings → For developers.-->

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even with the correct following of the instructions, errors can occur, and here are the most common ways to correct them:

If the device does not turn on or cyclically restarts after firmware, try:

• 🔌 Connect to charging for 30 minutes (sometimes helps with a discharged battery).
• 📱 Refuse the device through EDL-Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account and boxing).
• 🔧 Contact the service center (if the guarantee is valid).

💡

If the firmware through Fastboot is a mistake, DO NOT try to repeat the process without analyzing the logs. USB-cable, driver updates or selecting another firmware version.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions