How to uninstall the update on Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T: 3 working ways to roll back MIUI

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T is a popular smartphone with a balance of price and performance, but sometimes fresh MIUI updates bring more problems than good. Users face bugs, slowdowns, battery discharge or app incompatibility after an upgrade. If you are in this situation, do not despair: rollback of the update is possible, but requires accuracy.

In this article, we will discuss the three official methods of removing updates on the Redmi Note 8T (codename willow): through Recovery, Fastboot and factory reset. Each method has its own nuances, from simplicity to the risk of data loss. Importantly, the procedure is different from the rollback on other Xiaomi models (for example, Redmi Note 9 Pro or POCO X3), so follow the instructions strictly for your version of the device.

Before you start, check the current version of MIUI in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. This will help you find the right firmware for rollback. Also note: rollback to a version older than 2 years can block access to certain features (such as Google Pay or banking applications) due to outdated security certificates.

1. Preparing for rollback of the update: what to do in advance

Firmware rollback is a process that can lead to data loss, so preparation is critical. Start by backing up all important files: photos, contacts, messages and app data. Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive or physical copying to your PC via MTP (file transfer mode).

Pay particular attention to:

• 📱 IMEI and serial number (you can find under the battery or in Settings) → It's useful if you want to unlock the phone after you roll back.
• 🔑 Make sure you remember the username and password – without them, unlocking the bootloader after reset will not be possible.
• 🔋 Battery charging level must be at least 60% to avoid sudden shutdown during the procedure.
• 🖥️ Windows computer (for Fastboot and Recovery methods) will require drivers ADB/Fastboot and the Mi Flash Tool utility.

Also download the correct firmware version for your region. For the Redmi Note 8T, you can find the latest builds on official resources:

• 🌍 Official website MIUI (Choose the Global section, EEA or Russia depending on your firmware).
• 📥 Xiaomi Firmware Updater (alternative source with archive of old versions).

⚠️ Note: Do not use firmware for other models (for example, Redmi Note 8 without the letter "T") - this will lead to a "brick" (complete failure) of the device.

2. Method 1: Recovery (without data loss)

This method is suitable if you are updated by air" (OTA) You want to go back to the previous version without completely resetting, and it only works if you have a file in your phone's memory from the previous firmware (usually stored in a folder). /cache or /data/ota_package).

Instructions:

1. Download the firmware file (.zip format) for your model from the official website and rename it to update.zip.
2. Move the file to the root directory of the phone’s internal memory (not to folders!).
3. Turn off the phone, then press Volume Up + Power to enter Recovery Mode.
4. From the Recovery menu, select Install update.zip to System (use volume buttons for navigation, power button for confirmation).
5. Wait for the process to complete (5-10 minutes) and restart the device.

If the Recovery menu doesn't have Install update.zip, then your version of Recovery doesn't support this method, so go to the Fastboot method.

⚠️ Note: If after the rollback the phone is stuck on the logo MI longer than 15 minutes - forcefully restart it (clip the power supply) + Volume down for 10 seconds. If the problem recurs, repeat the procedure or use Fastboot.

3. Method 2: Reset via Fastboot (full reset)

Fastboot is the most reliable method, but it requires unlocking the bootloader and completely erasing the data.

• 🔄 You want to go back to the version. MIUI older than the previous one (for example, from 13th to 12th).
• 🚫 Recovery method is not working or is not on the menu.
• 📦 You have a backup of the data.

Step-by-step:

1. Unlock the bootloader (if not unlocked): Go to Mi Unlock and download the Mi Unlock Tool utility. Log in to Mi Account on your phone and utility. Enable OEM Unlock in Settings → For developers (if not, tap 7 times on the MIUI version to activate the developer mode). Connect the phone in Fastboot mode (click Volume down + Power) and follow the utility instructions.

Download the Fastboot firmware

Redmi Note 8T

.tgz

.zip

Install ADB/Fastboot drivers

here

Firmware via Mi Flash Tool

• Open the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and specify the folder with the unpacked firmware.
• Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (black screen with a rabbit and the words Fastboot).
• Select Clean All mode and press Flash.
• Wait for the end (5-10 minutes) and the phone to restart.

Check the phone after the reset. If you have problems, use Recovery or Fastboot.

💡

If after reset, the phone asks you to enter a Mi Account, but you do not remember it, use password recovery. In extreme cases, contact the service center with proof of purchase (check or box).

5. Risks and consequences of rollback of the update

Firmware rollback is not a harmless procedure. Here are the problems you might have:

• 🔒 Blocking your Mi Account: If you forget your account details, your phone can turn into a brick after you reset.
• 📵 Loss of communication: On older versions MIUI Current network standards may not work (e.g., VoLTE or 5G, if they are maintained).
• 🛡️ Security issues: Outdated firmware doesn't get security patches, making the phone vulnerable to viruses.
• 🔄 Bootloop: If the firmware is not properly selected, the phone can be permanently restarted.

To minimize the risks:

• 📌 Use only official firmware from verified sources.
• 🔄 Don’t roll back on versions older than 2 years – this may block some features.
• 📡 Before the procedure, disable Find the device in your Mi Account to avoid locking.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone stopped turning on or stuck on the logo after rolling back, do not try to repeat the procedure repeatedly. 8T And the version of the firmware that you tried to roll back on, and acting on your own can make the problem worse.

6. Alternative solutions: what to do if the rollback does not help

If after rollback problems remain or the procedure failed, consider alternative options:

1. Installation of custom firmware

Firmware like LineageOS or Pixel Experience can be a solution if the official MIUI is unstable.

• 🔓 Unlocked loader.
• 🖥️ Installations TWRP Recovery (unofficial Recovery).
• 📥 Compatible firmware for willow (codename Redmi Note) 8T).

Risks: loss of warranty, possible bugs (e.g., a broken camera or NFC).

2.Rollback through EDL-The mode (for experienced users)

If the phone doesn't turn on (brick), you can try flashing it through EDL (Emergency Download Mode).

• 🔧 Special cable (EDL cable) or contact rations on the board.
• 💻 Mi Flash Pro or QFilm.
• 📄 Authorized firmware download account (e.g., via Xiaomi Authorized Tool).

⚠️ Attention: Incorrect actions in EDL This method is recommended only by specialists.

3. Contact the service center

If all attempts to roll back failed, contact the official Xiaomi service.

• 📄 Check or warranty card (if the phone is guaranteed).
• 📱 The device itself with the problem description (indicate that the problem occurred after the update).
• 🔄 Version MIUI, back-up.