Are you tired of the MIUI shell on your Xiaomi smartphone and dreaming of a pure Android or Samsung’s proprietary One UI interface?Iliperhaps want to sell the device under the guise of a Korean brand flagship?In this article, we will explore all possible (and impossible) ways to turn Xiaomi into Samsung, from software tricks to radical hardware modifications.
Let's warn you right away: Xiaomi's firmware is technically impossible to replace with Samsung without replacing the hardware, but there are workarounds: installing custom firmware with a One UI simulation, using launchers, and for the most desperate, even replacing the motherboard. We'll analyze each method, assess the risks, and tell you what really works in 2026.
Why users want to replace Xiaomi with Samsung
The reasons for wanting to “remake” Xiaomi under Samsung usually boil down to three key points:
- 🔄 Inconvenience MIUI: Aggressive advertising, unnecessary services, non-intuitive settings – many users believe the shell Xiaomi overloaded.
- 📱 Design and Ergonomics: The One Interface UI It is often praised for its minimalism, adaptability and integration with the Samsung ecosystem (e.g. Samsung DeX or Samsung Pay).
- 💰 Buy savings: Some try to pass off Xiaomi for Samsung on resale, though it’s a scam and easy to uncover.
According to the survey 4PDA post 2023 year, 38% Redmi and Poco owners have considered switching to Samsung because of the software part, but before you go to extremes, it is worth realizing that no firmware will make Xiaomi a full-fledged Samsung - the difference in hardware (processors). Exynos/Snapdragon vs MediaTek/Qualcomm Xiaomi budget and drivers remain critical.
Method 1: Install a launcher with a One UI design
The safest and most reversible method is to use an alternative launcher that mimics the Samsung One UI interface. This won’t replace firmware, but will visually bring the experience closer.
Best options:
- 🌟 One UI Launcher (unofficial ports) - copies Samsung's design, including icons, animations and settings menus. runs on Android 10+.
- 🎨 Hex Installer + Samsung One UI — It allows you to customize icons, fonts and even system dialogues.
- ⚡ Nova Launcher with Samsung icon set is a flexible option for those who want fine-tuning.
How to determine:
- Download the launcher’s APK from 4PDA or APKMirror (avoid unknown sources!).
- Allow installation from unknown sources in Settings → Appendices → Special Rights.
- Install the launcher and select it as the main one in Settings → Home screen.
- For a full imitation, download the theme for icons (for example, One UI Icons from Google Play) and apply it to the launcher settings.
☑️ Preparation for launcher installation
⚠️ Note: Launchers are not a replacement for system applications (e.g. Camera or Phone will remain from Xiaomi). UI, The Edge Panels and Bixby will not work.
Method 2: Custom firmware with Samsung interface
A more radical method is to install custom firmware stylized as Samsung. There are modified builds of LineageOS or AOSP with themes and launchers from One UI, but they require unlocking the bootloader and have limitations.
Popular firmware:
| Firmware | Basis | Support for One UI | Complexity of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Havoc OS | AOSP | Theme + launcher | Medium |
| Pixel Experience + One UI Mod | Google Pixel | Partial | Tall. |
| Resurrection Remix | AOSP | Customizable theme | Medium |
Instructions for installation (on the example of Havoc OS):
- Unlock the bootloader through Mi Unlock Tool (requires a Xiaomi account binding and wait 7-15 days).
- Install custom TWRP recaps for your model (see instructions on XDA Developers).
- Download firmware and GApps (Google services).
- In TWRP, run Wipe → Advanced Wipe (mark Dalvik, Cache, System, Data).
- Install the firmware, then GApps, and restart.
What happens if the device is not properly installed?
⚠️ Attention: After installing custom firmware:
- Data encryption will stop working (on some models).
- They refuse to function. NFC and IR-blaster (if they were in the original firmware).
- OTA updates will come manually – automatic updates from Xiaomi will be turned off.
Method 3: Replacement of the motherboard (extreme case)
If you want a full Samsung, rather than a simulation, the only option is to physically replace the device.
- Buying a donated board from Samsung (for example, from the Galaxy A52 or Galaxy M31, as their dimensions are comparable to the Redmi Note).
- Soldering of display connectors, battery, cameras and speakers (requires professional equipment).
- Customize drivers for new hardware (often leading to sensor issues).
The cost of such an upgrade:
| Component | Price (rupe) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Galaxy A52 motherboard | 8 000 — 12 000 | B/w on Avito or AliExpress |
| Work of the master | 5 000 — 15 000 | Depends on the complexity of the soldering |
| Adaptation of PO | 3 000 — 10 000 | May require firmware through Odin |
⚠️ Note: Even after the payment has been changed:
- 📱 IMEI Xiaomi will remain the same (it can be changed software, but it is illegal in most countries).
- 🔋 The battery may not fit in the voltage - you will have to buy a new one.
- 📡 Communication modules (4G/5G, Wi-Fi may be unstable due to different chipsets.
💡
Before you change the board, check the compatibility of the display and camera connectors. For example, the board from the Galaxy A71 will not physically fit into the case of the Redmi Note 9 Pro due to different locations of the holes under the buttons.
Method 4: Cloud Services and Remote Desktop
If you want Samsung software (such as Samsung Notes or Samsung Health) but don’t want to risk the device, consider:
- 🌐 Samsung Cloud – some apps (such as Samsung Notes) are available via the web version.
- 🖥️ Remote Desktop: Connect to a Samsung PC or tablet via Chrome Remote Desktop or TeamViewer.
- 📱 Emulators: Install Samsung Experience in Android Studio emulator (requires PC).
Advantages of the method:
- ✅ No risk of damaging the device.
- ✅ Full access to the Samsung ecosystem (e.g. Samsung Knox for security).
- ✅ Legality – the terms of use of the software are not violated.
Disadvantages:
- ❌ A stable internet connection is required.
- ❌ Not all functions work remotely (e.g. Bixby Voice or Bixby Voice). AR Emoji).
Risks and legal implications
Attempts to “remake” Xiaomi Samsung carry not only technical, but also legal risks.
- 🚫 Violation of license agreements: Use of Samsung proprietary software on uncertified devices is prohibited EULA.
- 🔒 Account lock: Xiaomi may lock device for trying to bypass Mi Account (especially when changing fees).
- 💸 Loss of warranty: Any modifications to firmware or iron will void the warranty.
- 👮 Selling fraud: Issue Xiaomi for Samsung qualifies as buyer fraud (Article 159 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation).
The only legal way to get Samsung is to buy the original device, all other methods are either temporary crutches or outright lawbreaking.
💡
No modification will make Xiaomi a full-fledged Samsung, the maximum that can be achieved is visual imitation of the interface or partial compatibility with Samsung software through cloud services.