Xiaomi Mi 5X, also known globally as Mi A1, remains a popular device due to its clean Android and high-quality build. However, over time, users face the need to reinstall the operating system: whether it is switching from the Chinese version of firmware to the global version, recovering from a failed update or wanting to get the latest version of Android.
The flashing process requires careful follow-up, as any errors can cause a device to fail. In this article, we will look at all the steps from tool preparation to final boot to the new system, learn about the differences between Fastboot and Recovery modes, and understand which method will suit your situation.
Before you take action, you need to be aware of the risks. Any interference with the software of the phone is always a risk. Even experienced service center engineers sometimes face unforeseen driver errors or power failures. Therefore, prepare the workplace, charge the battery of the device to at least 60% and find a quality one. USB-A cable that transmits data accurately, not just charges.
Preparation for firmware: Tools and drivers
The first step is to collect the necessary software. Without the right drivers, the computer simply won't see the phone in the right mode. You'll need to install ADB Drivers and Fastboot Drivers from Xiaomi. Often these come bundled with the Mi Flash utility, but it's better to install them separately to avoid version conflicts.
You'll also need the firmware itself. For the Xiaomi Mi 5X (codenamed tissot), it's important not to confuse the versions. There's a separation between Recovery firmware (.zip extension) and Fastboot firmware (.tgz extension). For complete cleaning and installation from scratch, we'll use the second option.
- 📱 Download the current firmware from the official repository or a trusted source (it is important to choose the version for tissot).
- 💻 Install the latest version of Mi Flash Tool on a Windows computer.
- 🔌 Prepare original or certified USB-micro-USB cable.
- 🔋 Charge the smartphone to a minimum 60-70% shutdown.
Remember to back up all your important data. During the Fastboot process, your phone's memory will be completely formatted, and your photos, contacts, and messages will be lost forever unless you save them to the cloud or your computer in advance.
⚠️ Note: Use firmware from other models (e.g. Redmi Note) 5X) It will turn your phone into a brick. Always check the code name of the device before downloading the file.
☑️ Firmware readiness
Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader)
The official firmware through Fastboot often requires an unlocked bootloader. If you plan to upgrade from Chinese (CN) to global (Global) or install custom software, this step is mandatory. Without unlocking Mi Flash will give an error when you try to write partitions.
The process of linking a Mi Account to a device can take anywhere from 7 to 360 hours (usually 168 hours, that is one week), you need to log into the phone's settings, go to the Developer section and enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging, and then you apply to your PC through the "Mi Unlock" application.
What to do if the unlock timer is frozen?
It’s worth noting that unlocking the bootloader automatically triggers the Wipe Data process. This is a Xiaomi security measure. If you’ve already unlocked the device before, you don’t need to repeat the binding procedure – just unlock it again through Fastboot mode.
Firmware via Mi Flash Tool (Fastboot Mode)
This is the main and most reliable way to install the system, and allows you to completely rewrite all partitions of memory, eliminating program errors, cyclical reboots and problems with communication modules. To start, unpack the downloaded firmware archive (.tgz format) into the root of the C disk so that the path is short, such as: C:\rom_tissot_global.
Put your phone in Fastboot mode. Turn the device off completely, then press the volume down button and the power button at the same time. The android repairing hare should appear on the screen, labeled FASTBOOT. Connect the phone to the PC with a cable.
Launch the Mi Flash Tool on behalf of the administrator. Press the Refresh button, your device with the serial number should appear in the list. If you see an empty field or error instead of a number, then the drivers are installed incorrectly. Choose the path to the folder with the unpacked firmware.
| Firmware mode | Description of action | Impact on data | When to use |
|---|---|---|---|
| clean all | Complete cleaning and installation | All data is deleted | Transition between regions, treatment of errors |
| save user data | Data retention | Data is retained | Update version within one region |
| clean all and lock | Cleaning and blocking BL | All data is deleted, BL is blocked. | Return to original factory condition |
At the bottom of the utility, select one of three modes. For the Xiaomi Mi 5X, when switching from CN to Global, it is recommended to use only clean all. Locking the bootloader (lock) after installing global firmware on Chinese iron can lead to locking the device, so be careful with the third option.
Press the "Flash" button. The process will take 200 to 600 seconds. The progress bar will be filled in green. Don't touch the cable or turn off the computer. Once completed, the phone will automatically restart. The first boot can last up to 10 minutes.
💡
Use only the “clean all” mode when changing your firmware region (e.g. from China to Global) to avoid system file conflicts and cyclical reboots.
Alternative method: Update via Recovery
If the bootloader is locked or you just want to upgrade within a single region (like Global 10.0 to Global 11.0), you can use the built-in Recovery.This method is less risky, but it doesn't allow you to change the region or downgrade the Android version.
Download the firmware in Recovery format (extension.zip, weight about 1.5-2 Rename the file to update.zip Put this file in the root of the phone's internal memory (not on the phone's internal memory). SD-Then go to the update menu: Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI → Three dots in a corner → Select a firmware file.
Once you select a file, the phone will request a reboot confirmation, the system will update automatically, and the good thing about this is that it doesn't require you to connect to a PC or install drivers, but if the current system is critically damaged, this method may not work.
- 📂 The firmware file should be at the root of internal memory, not in folders.
- ⚡ The battery charge must be above 50%, otherwise the process will be interrupted.
- 🚫 You can’t interrupt the installation process even if the phone seems to be getting stuck.
In some cases, the standard update menu may block the installation of an older firmware version, then you will have to use the Recovery mode via buttons (Power + Volume Up), but this requires an unlocked bootloader to install third-party zip archives.
Solving Typical Errors and Problems
The Xiaomi Mi 5X firmware process doesn't always go smoothly. One of the most common Mi Flash bugs is "Missmatching image and device." It occurs when you're trying to install firmware from one model to another or using Fastboot firmware in Recovery mode. Always check the code name tissot.
Another common problem is the anti-rollback error. Xiaomi has implemented rollback protection. If the phone is running Android 9.0, you will not be able to officially install Android 8.0. Trying to do this through Fastboot will lead to a hard lock of the device. Always check that the new firmware version is equal to or higher than the current one.
⚠️ Note: If after firmware the phone goes into an endless restart (bootloop), try to press the volume button down when the Mi logo appears. This can put the device in Fastboot mode, from where you can try to reflash with the "clean all" mode".
Also, users often encounter driver problems in Device Manager, if the phone is defined as "QUSB_BULK" or "Unknown Device", you need to manually update the driver by specifying the path to the xmusb or qualcomm folder in the Mi Flash installation directory. Without the correct display in the Device Manager (like Android Bootloader Interface), firmware is impossible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I flash Xiaomi Mi 5X on Android 10 or 11?
What if Mi Flash says "Flash All Lock" and the phone doesn't turn on?
Will IMEI reset after firmware?
How to get out of Recovery mode if your phone is stuck there?
💡
If you are upgrading from a very old version of MIUI to a new one (e.g. 8 to 11), it is best to do two full clean-all firmware cycles to avoid database errors and interface lags.
Xiaomi Mi 5X firmware is a great way to extend the life of the device or restore it to work. The main thing is to take your time, read the warnings carefully and use only verified files. By following this instruction, you minimize the risks and get a clean, fast system.