Xiaomi smartphones are famous for their performance, but over time, even reliable devices like Redmi 4 can face software errors. Hanging up, lack of updates or the desire to change Chinese firmware to global are the main reasons why owners are thinking about reinstalling the operating system.
The process of flashing Android on this device does not require a deep knowledge of programming, but it involves careful follow-up. Any wrong action can lead to the inoperability of the gadget, so it is important to prepare all the necessary files and tools in advance.
In this article, we will discuss all available methods of recovery and updating software, from a simple reset to manual installation via Fastboot. You will learn how to secure your data and avoid the typical mistakes that beginners make when working with MIUI.
Preparation for flashing: check and backup
Before starting any manipulations with the system partition, you need to make sure that the hardware is serviceable. First of all, charge the battery of the device to at least 60-70%. Interruption of the process due to battery discharge is the most common reason for turning a smartphone into a "brick".
It is also critical to back up all data, especially when you reflash the firmware type (e.g. China to Global), your internal memory will be completely cleaned, and use built-in MIUI tools or third-party programs to save contacts, photos and apps.
☑️ Checklist before firmware
Don't forget to check the integrity. USB-Cheap cables can charge but not transmit data consistently, which will cause an error in the transmission of system image files. Use the original wire or thick-vein quality analogue.
⚠️ Warning: The flash flashing process will void the warranty if it is still valid.All actions you perform at your own risk, so double check the device model in the About Phone menu.
Choosing the Right Version of the Firmware
The firmware market for Redmi 4 (codenames prada for Prime and wayne for regular) is huge, there are official versions from developers and custom builds from enthusiasts, depending on your goals: stability or maximum functionality.
The official firmware is divided into Recovery and Fastboot. The first are installed through the recovery menu and have the extension.zip. The second are designed for installation through a computer and have the extension.tgz. For complete cleaning and changing the region recommended the second option.
What is the difference between CN and Global?
Custom firmware like LineageOS or Pixel Experience allows for a clean Android shellless experience that can speed up the old hardware significantly, but often results in unstable camera or sensor performance if the drivers are written poorly.
When downloading files, pay attention to the release date. Newer versions may contain security patches, but sometimes introduce new bugs. For Redmi 4, MIUI 9 and 10 are considered the most stable versions, newer versions may run slower due to increased resource requirements.
Method 1: Update via Recovery Menu
This method is suitable for those who want to upgrade to a newer version or roll back without using a computer. You will need a firmware file in.zip format, which you need to place in the root of internal memory or on the back of the computer. SD-map.
To enter recovery mode, press the up volume button and the power button at the same time. Once the logo appears, release the power, but keep the volume until the menu appears. The interface language can be switched to English or Russian, if the recaveri version allows.
Next, select Choose update package. Find the previously copied archive and confirm the action. The system will check the integrity of the file and begin the installation.
- 🔄 The process will take 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of changes.
- 📉 Don’t interrupt the process even if the screen goes out – it’s normal.
- ✅ After completion, select Reboot to System).
If the phone goes into a bootloop after installation, try to do a full Wipe Data reset via the Wipe Data menu in the same Recovery mode. This will delete all files, but can save the system.
Method 2: Complete Fastboot and PC Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fastboot Fast Fastboot Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fastboot Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fast Fastboot Fast Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fastboot Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fast Fastboot Fastboot Fastboot Fast Fast Fastboot Fast Fastboo
The most reliable method is to restore the device even after a major failure, which requires a Windows computer, installed ADB/Fastboot drivers and the Mi Flash Tool.
First, you need to put your smartphone in Fastboot mode. To do this, turn off your phone and press the volume button "Down" + power. The screen will show an image of a rabbit repairing an android. Connect the device to the PC with a cable.
Run the Mi Flash Tool on behalf of the administrator. Press the Refresh button to detect the connected device. If the drivers are installed correctly, you will see the serial number of the phone in the list.
fastboot devicesThis command in the command line will also help verify the connection. If the serial number is displayed, the connection is set correctly. Next, click Select and specify the folder with the unpacked firmware (the.tgz archive must be pre-unpacked).
It is important to choose the correct firmware mode at the bottom of the program window:
- 🧹 Clean all – complete data cleanup (recommended).
- 💾 Save user data – saving data (may cause errors when changing region).
- ⚡ Clean all and lock – Clean and lock the bootloader (use only with the original firmware!).
⚠️ Warning: Selecting "Clean all and lock" with custom or incorrect firmware will permanently lock the device. Use this mode only if you are 100% sure of software compatibility.
Unlocking the bootloader: a mandatory step
The official global firmware re-flashing from Chinese often requires an unlocked bootloader, which is blocked by the manufacturer for security reasons.
To unlock, you need to apply through the Mi Unlock app on your computer, which requires you to link your Mi Account to your phone settings and wait 7 to 30 days. There is no instant unlock.
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Once the boot loader is unlocked, the Find Device and theft protection functions may not work properly until the first full authorization in the system.
The unlocking process also happens in Fastboot mode. Once you connect to Mi Unlock, the Unlock button will appear. Accept the warnings and wait until the process is over. All data on the phone will be deleted automatically.
Sometimes, there is a "Couldn't verify device" error, which means that the account is unlinked or it has been a short time since the application was submitted, in which case you will have to wait or try alternative methods that may be paid.
Table: Comparison of firmware methods
To make it easier for you to decide on the method, we have prepared a comparative table of the main ways to install software on Redmi 4.
| Parameter | Recovery (ZIP) | Fastboot (TGZ) | Mi Flash (Online) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Low. | Medium | Low. |
| I need a PC. | No. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Clearing the data | If you wish, | Complete (recommended) | Complete. |
| Change of region | Not always. | Yes. | Yes. |
As you can see from the table, it's enough to just update it through Recovery, but for global changes to file structure, it's better to use Fastboot.
Possible errors and their solution
The error code 7 in Mi Flash usually means a problem with access rights or drivers. Try running the program on behalf of the administrator or reconnecting the cable to another USB 2.0 port.
If the phone is stuck on startup the MI logo after installation, it could be a cache conflict: logging into Recovery and executing the commands Wipe Cache and Wipe Data often solves the problem. Don't be afraid to reset data if the system doesn't boot.
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90% of Xiaomi Firmware Reflashing Errors Are Not Due to the Firmware File, But Bad USB-A cable or unstable computer port.
The "Phone is locked" error when you try to install global firmware on the Chinese version indicates that the bootloader is blocked. Without it, you can officially change the region without it, and it is worth checking whether the phone is locked under the carrier.
⚠️ Warning: If the screen of the device is lit in red with the words "Locked", this means that the bootloader is locked, and the installation of custom images is impossible without prior unlocking.