Why Clean Update Log on Redmi 8 and When to Clean Update
The update log on Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a hidden system log that stores information about all installed firmware, security patches and minor updates. Over time, this file grows to several megabytes, taking up precious space in the /data partition and potentially slowing down the system. But the problem is not only in memory: a clogged log can cause errors when checking for new updates, software version conflicts and even MIUI Updater malfunctions.
When exactly should you clear the history? First, if you notice that your smartphone is looking for updates for a long time or you have an error called "Failure to check the update" (Error 20 or Error 404). Second, before a manual downgrade of the firmware, old logs can block the installation of an earlier version. Third, if you are preparing the device for sale and want to remove all traces of personal data, including the history of system changes.
It’s important to understand that cleaning the log doesn’t remove the updates themselves or roll back the system. It only erases the records about them, freeing up space and eliminating possible conflicts. On Redmi 8 (model M1908C3JG/M1908C3JH), this process has its own nuances due to the features of MIUI 11/12 firmware based on Android 9/10.
Method 1: Cleaning through built-in MIUI settings
The safest method, which does not require superuser rights, is suitable for most users, but does not remove all types of logs.
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Tap 7 times on the MIUI version to activate the developer mode (if not already enabled).
- Return to the main settings menu and go to Additional → For developers.
- Activate the USB Debugging option (required for alternative methods).
- Now go to Settings → Storage → Cleaning (or MIUI Cleaner).
- Select the Deep Clean tab and look for System Logs or Updates.
- Check the tick and click Clean.
This method only removes surface logs, but does not affect deep system files in the system. /data/ota_package. If the problem persists after cleaning, proceed to the next method.
Activate the Developer Mode
Enable debugging over USB
Backup of important data
Charge your phone at least 50%
Connect to stable Wi-Fi (for alternative methods)-->
Method 2: Manual removal via MIUI Cleaner (hidden function)
MIUI Cleaner has a hidden partition for working with system logs that is not displayed in the standard interface.
- Open the Security app (shield icon).
- Go to the Cleanup. → Deep cleaning.
- In the upper right corner, tap three points and select Settings.
- Activate Show system files (password confirmation may be required).
- Return to the cleaning section and scroll down to the System Logs block.
- Find the points: 📄 Update logs (update logs) 📦 OTA packages (firmware packages) 🔄 Recovery logs (recovery logs)
Mark them and press Clear.
After this procedure, it is recommended to restart the device, as some system processes may conflict with deleted files. If MIUI Cleaner does not find the specified items, then your firmware is modified (for example, Xiaomi.eu or custom), and you will need to use ADB.
What happens if you delete it? OTA-packet?
Method 3: Complete ADB cleaning (for power users)
If the first two methods fail, you’ll need to connect to your phone via Android Debug Bridge, which removes all traces of updates, including hidden logs in /data/data/com.android.updater.
- 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB-driver
- 📱 USB-cable (preferably original)
- 🔌 Included debugging by USB phone-on
Instructions:
- Connect Redmi 8 to your PC and confirm the debugging permission on your phone screen.
- Open the command prompt (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with adb.exe.
- Enter the commands in turn: adb shell su rm -rf /data/ota_package/* rm -rf /data/data/com.android.updater/cache/* rm -rf /data/data/com.android.updater/files/* rm /data/data/com.android.updater/shared_prefs/updater_preferences.xml reboot
After the reboot, the update log will be completely erased, so if the su command is not working, then the root rights are not available on the device, in which case use an alternative command without su (but some files will remain unavailable):
adb shell pm clear com.android.updater💡
If ADB does not recognize the device, try to enter the command adb kill-server, then disconnect / connect the cable and try again.
What to do if cleaning doesn’t work: alternative solutions
In 10 percent of cases, standard methods don't solve the problem because of corrupted system files.
| Problem. | Decision | Risks. |
|---|---|---|
| Error "Cannot check the update" | Reset MIUI Updater settings via Settings → Applications → App management → Updater → Storage → Clear data | Auto-update settings will be reset |
| Hanging in the phase of checking updates | Install MIUI bootloader from Google Play for manual firmware download | Requires manual installation through Recovery |
| The log is full, but the place is not vacated. | Format /data partition via TWRP (requires an unlocked bootloader) | Complete reset of the device to factory settings |
If neither method worked, it could be a corrupted firmware, in which case only flashing through Fastboot or Recovery will help. For Redmi 8, the official firmware can be downloaded from Xiaomi Firmware (choose the version for olive, the code name of the model).
Once a month (I check regularly)
Only when critical errors appear
Never update.
Only through hand-held firmware.-->
How to prevent journal littering in the future
To avoid recurring problems, follow these guidelines:
- 🔄 Turn off automatic update downloads in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system → Three-pointed → Settings → It's a download, it's a way to prevent the accumulation of unnecessary things. OTA-packet.
- 🗑️ Clean the Updater cache regularly (once in a week). 2-3 month through Settings → Annexes → Updater → Warehouse → Clear the cache.
- 📱 Use alternative launchers (like Nova Launcher) that do not interact with system logs.
- 🔧 Install a Magisk patch (for rooted devices) that blocks the logs of updates.
If you often experiment with firmware, consider installing a custom recavator (like OrangeFox), which allows you to manage logs more flexibly. 8 current-age — 3.6.1_10.
💡
Regularly cleaning up the update log not only frees up space, but also reduces the risk of crashes when installing new firmware, especially if you are using MIUI betas.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When working with system files, it is easy to make critical errors.
⚠️ Note: Never delete files in a folder /system manually, this will cause a device to fail, and update logs are stored only in the /data and /cache.
Typical misses:
- 🚫 Deletion of the folder /data/ota_package without backup – if it was downloaded, but not installed firmware package, you will have to download it again.
- 🚫 Using a file manager without root – most system folders will not be available and you will see empty directories.
- 🚫 Interrupting the cleaning process through ADB — It can cause damage to the file system. f2fs, It's a Redmi 8.
If after cleaning the phone stopped seeing updates at all, check the file /data/data/com.android.updater/shared_prefs/updater_preferences.xml. His absence or damage will block the work MIUI Updater. It can only be restored by reinstalling the firmware.