Related: Android Update rollback on Xiaomi Redmi Note 5: 3 working methods with instructions

Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 (codenamed whyred) remains a popular smartphone even years after its release, but not all MIUI updates are beneficial. The new firmware version can slow down the system, drain the battery faster or break the camera functionality. If you encounter similar problems after the update, a rollback to the previous version of Android will be the solution.

In this article, we'll look at three official rollbacks: Recovery, Fastboot, and Mi Flash Tool. Each method has nuances: some user data is stored, some bootloader needs to be unlocked, and in some cases, you'll have to reset your phone to factory settings, and we'll describe each step in detail, warn you of the risks, and give you training recommendations.

Important: the rollback procedure is not identical to a regular update. Here, the compliance of firmware versions (you can not install MIUI 10 on top of MIUI 12 without additional manipulations) and the correct sequence of actions are critical. Errors can lead to a “brick” (inoperability) of the device, so follow the instructions carefully.

1.Preparation for rollback: what to do before the start

Before you start rolling back your firmware on Redmi Note 5, follow the mandatory preparatory steps to minimize the risks of data loss and disruptions in the process.

Basic requirements:

• 🔋 Battery charge of at least 60% (preferably 100%) When discharged during firmware, the device may turn off and stop turning on.
• 📱 Backup data. Backup via Fastboot or Mi Flash Tool erases internal memory.Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive or physical copying on PC.
• 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11 (For the methods through Fastboot. Mac/Linux There may be problems with drivers.
• 🔌 Original. USB-Cheap cables often don't transmit data in Fastboot mode.

Also check the current MIUI version and device model:

1. Open the Settings. → The phone.
2. Remember or write down the MIUI version (e.g. MIUI Global 12.5.3) and the Model Number (Redmi Note 5 or whyred).
3. Check the status of the bootloader: if you previously unlocked it for installing custom firmware, this will simplify the process.

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If you are not sure about the model, enter the dial code ##4636## and check the line "Device model".

A critical mistake of many users: trying to roll back on the version of MIUI older than 1 year without first unlocking the bootloader. Since 2021, Xiaomi has tightened the policy, and you can only "swipe back" without unlocking within the last 3-4 releases.

2. Method 1: Recovery (Save Data)

The safest method is to roll back the firmware without losing data, and is suitable for transitions between close versions of MIUI (e.g. 12.5.4 to 12.5.2).

Requirements:

• 📲 The bootloader is not unlocked (the method works with the blocked one).
• 📁.zip firmware for Redmi Note 5 (download only from Xiaomi official website).
• 🔄 The firmware version should be older than the current one 2-3 release.

Step-by-step:

1. Download the desired version of MIUI in recovery ROM format (file with.zip extension).
2. Rename the file to update.zip (required!) and move it to the root folder of the phone’s internal memory (not to folders!).
3. Turn off the Redmi Note 5.
4. Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi Recovery logo appears.
5. In the Restore menu, select the language (if available), then: Install update.zip to System One → confirm the selection.
6. Wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes) and the phone will reboot automatically.

Download firmware from the official website |Rename to update.zip|Transfer to the root of memory |Switch off the phone |Click the buttons to log in to Recovery

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⚠️ Note: If after the rollback the phone is stuck on the logo MI 15 minutes or longer, reset via Recovery (Wipe Data) → Wipe All Data. This will delete user files, but it will bring back the functionality.

Method 2: Recoil via Fastboot (requires unlocking the bootloader)

This method is suitable for deep rollback to older versions of MIUI (for example, from MIUI 13 to MIUI 12) or if the Recovery method did not work.

What you need:

• 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (if not unlocked – follow the instructions below).
• 💻 Computer with Xiaomi drivers installed and Mi Flash Tool.
• 📁 Fastboot firmware ROM (file with the.tgz or.zip extension containing the.img file folder).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original or high-quality).

Instructions:

1. Unpack the firmware archive in a folder on your computer (for example, C:\whyred_fastboot).
2. Turn off the Redmi Note 5 and put it into Fastboot mode: Press Volume Down + Power for 10 seconds.
3. Connect your phone to your PC. Make sure that the Android Bootloader Interface is in Device Manager.
4. Launch the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and specify the folder with the unpacked firmware.
5. At the bottom, select Clean All (full clean) or Clean All and Lock (clean + lock bootloader).
6. Press Flash and wait until it is completed (the process will take 5-15 minutes).

Once the firmware is successful, the phone will restart. It can take up to 10 minutes to turn on the first one, which is normal.

Yes, I unlocked |No, but I want to try |No, and I don't plan |I don't know what it is.

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How to unlock the bootloader on Redmi Note 5

If the bootloader is locked, it must be unlocked before using the Fastboot method. Xiaomi officially allows unlocking, but the process requires waiting and confirmation through the Mi Account.

Steps to unlock:

1. Link your Mi Account to your phone: Settings → Xiaomi account.
2. Enable USB debugging: Settings → About Phone → MIUI version (click 7 times), then Settings → Additional → For Developers → Debugging over USB.
3. Download the Mi Unlock Tool and install it on PC.
4. Launch the utility, log in to your Mi Account and follow the instructions. Link the device to your account.
5. Connect your phone in Fastboot mode and press Unlock in the program. Wait for confirmation (can take up to 72 hours).

⚠️ Note: Once the bootloader is unlocked, all data will be reset and the warranty (if valid) will be canceled.

Method 3: Recoil through EDL (for power users)

EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is a service firmware mode that is used when the phone is not turning on or other methods have failed. It requires special equipment (Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008) and knowledge.

When you need an EDL:

• 🚨 The phone will not turn on after a failed rollback.
• 🔄 You need to flash a device with a damaged system.
• 🔒 The bootloader is blocked and other methods are not available.

Risks:

• ⚠️ Wrong firmware in EDL It can permanently damage your phone.
• 🛠️ QDLoader drivers and Mi Flash Pro program are required.
• 📵 Possible problems with IMEI after the firmware (recovery is required).

If you are not an experienced user, it is better to contact the service center. EDL:

1. Download the firmware in EDL format (usually files with the.mbn extension).
2. Install the Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 driver.
3. Connect the phone to the PC by clamping Volume up + Volume down + Power (or through Testpoint).
4. In Mi Flash Pro, select firmware and press Flash.

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EDL-The mode is the last chance to bring the phone back to life, but it requires strict adherence to instructions and an understanding of processes!

5. Frequent errors and their solutions

When you roll back firmware on Redmi Note 5, users often face typical problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Error: "Couldn't verify update package" in Recovery

• 📌 Reason: A damaged firmware file or the wrong name.
• 🔧 Solution: Download the firmware, check the hash amount (MD5), rename update.zip.

Error: "Flash is not done" in the Mi Flash Tool

• 📌 Reasons: Fastboot drivers are not installed. Cable does not support data transfer. Firmware is not suitable for the whyred model.
• 🔧 Solution: Check drivers, replace the cable, download firmware specifically for Redmi Note 5.

Mistake: phone is stuck on startup MI logo after rollback

• 📌 Reason: Version conflict or incomplete firmware.
• 🔧 Solution: Run Wipe Data in Recovery or repeat the firmware via Fastboot.

⚠️ Note: If you have been missing after the retraction IMEI If the network is not working, don't try to restore it through the engineering menu (#4636###) - this can make the problem worse. QCN Rebuilder or contact the service.

6.How to avoid problems after a rollback

A successful rollback is only half the battle, and to keep the Redmi Note 5 running smoothly after the downgrade of MIUI, follow these guidelines:

What to do immediately after the rollback:

• 🔄 Perform reset to factory settings (Settings) → Additionally. → Recovery and reset, even if the data is preserved, will eliminate possible conflicts.
• 🔒 Turn off automatic updates MIUI: Settings → The phone. → Updating the system → ⚙️ → Auto-update (off).
• 📱 Check the basic functions: cameras, networks, sensors. If something doesn't work, repeat the firmware.

How to prevent future problems:

• 📥 Regularly back up your files via Mi Cloud or TWRP (if established).
• 🚫 Do not install firmware from third-party developers (customs) ROM), If you are not sure of their stability.
• 🔍 Before updating, check reviews about the new version MIUI in forums (for example, XDA Developers).

If your phone is running slower after a rollback, try:

1. Clear the cache: Settings → Memory → Clear the cache.
2. Disable animation: Settings → Additional → For developers → The scale of animation (off).
3. Remove unnecessary applications through Settings → Apps.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions