How to remove updates on Xiaomi Redmi Note 9: safe rollback of firmware

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 is one of the most popular smartphones in the budget segment, but not all MIUI updates are useful. The new version of the firmware can slow down the system, drain the battery faster or break the usual functionality. If after the update your Redmi Note 9 began to work worse, there are several ways to return the previous version of MIUI.

In this article, we will discuss three official methods of rollback updates, from simple reset to manual firmware via Fastboot. Importantly, the procedure requires preparation, otherwise you risk getting a brick. We will explain each step in detail, point out pitfalls and give recommendations for data preservation.

We warn you right away: rolling back firmware on Xiaomi reset to factory settings DOES NOT remove system updates - it only returns the settings to the state "out of the box" with the current version of MIUI. For a full-fledged downgrade, additional manipulations will be required.

Why MIUI Updates Could Hurt the Redmi Note 9

Manufacturers regularly release updates, but not all of them are optimized for specific models. In the case of the Redmi Note 9 (codenamed merlin), users often face the following problems after updates:

• 🔋 Increased battery consumption - new versions MIUI can contain background processes that actively consume charge even in standby mode.
• 🐢 Lags and slowing down - especially noticeable when transitioning from MIUI 12 on MIUI 13/14, where the logic of animation and multitasking has changed.
• 📱 CPU overheating – some builds are poorly optimized for Helio G85, This leads to increased load on the chipset.
• 🚫 Lack of familiar features – Xiaomi sometimes removes popular features (such as Second Space or screen settings) in new versions.

According to the 4PDA and XDA-Developers forums, about 15% of Redmi Note 9 users experience critical bugs after major updates, and official support for Xiaomi rarely acknowledges the problems, offering only a reset.

⚠️ Note: If your smartphone is warranty-free, rolling back the firmware may cause it to be lost.

Preparing for a rollback: what to do before the start

Before you start removing updates, follow the mandatory steps:

1. Back up your data. Use Settings → Additional → Backup and Reset → Local backup or third-party utilities like Titanium Backup (requires root).
2. Check the current version of MIUI. Path: Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. Write down the build number (e.g. V12.5.3.0.RJOMIXM).
3. Download the firmware you want. Redmi Note 9 only works with files marked merlin: 🌍 Xiaomi official website: miuidownload 📥 Xiaomi Firmware Updater: xiaomifirmwareupdater.com

Charge your phone at least 60%.

For manual methods (via Fastboot or Recovery) you will additionally need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/Linux and installed drivers ADB/Fastboot.
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).
• 🛠️ Utility: Mi Flash Tool (for Fastboot) or OrangeFox/TWRP (for recovery).

⚠️ Note: Firmware for Redmi Note 9 (merlin code is incompatible with Redmi Note 9S/9 Pro (code) curtana/joyeuse). Installation of inappropriate software will lead to hard brick (complete loss of performance).

Make backup contacts and photo | Download firmware for merlin|Install ADB drivers on PC |Unlock Mi Account (if any) |Check battery-->

Method 1: Recovery (without data loss)

This method is suitable if you want to go back to the previous version of MIUI, but are not ready to reset all settings.

• 📲 You have customized recovery (for example) installed, TWRP Or OrangeFox).
• 📁 There is a firmware file in.zip format for your model (merlin).
• 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (bootloader).

If these conditions do not exist, proceed to method 2 (Fastboot).

Step-by-step:

1. Download the correct version MIUI in.zip format (for example, miui_MERLINGlobal_V12.0.1.0.QJOMIXM_...) Put the file in the root of the phone’s memory.
2. Turn off your smartphone and go to Recovery, clamping Power + Volume up.
3. From the TWRP menu, select: Install → Select downloaded ZIP → Swipe to Confirm Flash
4. After installation, press Wipe cache/dalvik and restart the device.

If after the reboot the phone is getting stuck on the Redmi logo, reset the cache again through Recovery.

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If the phone doesn't turn on after you've run through Recovery, try repeating the process with Magisk disabled (if installed). Root modules often conflict with system updates.

Method 2: Fastboot Firmware (the most reliable method)

This option is suitable for a full rollback to the factory firmware, including removing all updates. It requires an unlocked bootloader and a connection to the PC.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Mi Flash Tool (download from official website).
• 📂 Firmware in.tgz or.zip format (for example, merlin_global_images_V12.0.1.0.QJOMIXM_...).
• 🔧 Drivers. ADB/Fastboot (Install it through Mi Unlock Tool or manually).

Instructions:

1. Unpack the firmware archive into a folder without Cyrillic characters (e.g., C:\MIUI\merlin).
2. Turn off the phone and put it into Fastboot mode, clamping Power + Volume down.
3. Connect your smartphone to your PC and start the Mi Flash Tool.
4. In the program, click Select, specify the path to the firmware folder, then select Clean all (full reset) or Clean all and lock (reset + lock the bootloader).
5. Press Flash and wait until it is completed (the process will take 5-10 minutes).

Once the firmware is in place, the phone will automatically restart. It can take up to 15 minutes to launch the first one, which is normal.

⚠️ Note: If you select the Clean all and lock option in the Mi Flash Tool, the bootloader will be locked. Re-unlock will require waiting 7-30 days (by Xiaomi rules).

Method 3: Official Downgrade via OTA (without PC)

Xiaomi sometimes lets you roll back to the previous version of MIUI through the standard update menu, which is the most secure method, but it doesn’t always work.

How to check the availability of the rollback:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Put the badge on. ⚙️ (settings) in upper right corner.
3. Select the Update Package and click on three dots (⋮) → Delete.
4. If the system offers to download the previous version, agree.

Unfortunately, this method is only available for 10 days after the update, OTA-downgrade will be blocked.

Alternatively, use Xiaomi Server Picker (an app to change the update region), sometimes in other regions, older builds are available.

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Official rollback via OTA is the only method that doesn’t require unlocking the bootloader or resetting data, but it only works for a limited period after the update.

What to do if the phone does not turn on after rollback

If the phone is stuck on the Redmi logo or doesn't respond to buttons, don't panic. In 90% of cases, the device can be restored.

Options for a solution:

• 🔄 Hard reset: Squeeze the power + Volume up for 15 to 20 seconds. If the phone vibrates, release the buttons and wait for the restart.
• 📱 Fastboot Flash: Repeat the process from Method 2 by selecting the Clean All option.
• 🔧 Use of the EDL-If the phone is not detected in Fastboot, you will need a special cable (EDL cable) and utility Mi Flash Pro. This method is complex and risky - it is better to contact the service.

If none of these methods worked, there may have been an error in writing the boot or system partition, in which case only the resolding of the memory in the service center will help.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use informal firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience) to restore work.They may not support hardware components of the Redmi Note 9, which will exacerbate the problem.

How to avoid problems with updates in the future

To avoid the need for a kickback, follow these tips:

• 📵 Turn off automatic update: Go to Settings → The phone. → Updating the system → ⚙️ → Auto Update and select Off.
• 🔍 Check reviews before updating: Read comments on forums (4PDA, XDA) newer MIUI For the Redmi Note 9.
• ⏳ Wait 1-2 weeks after release: First builds often contain critical bugs that are patched in the following patches.
• 📲 Use alternative firmware: If stock is MIUI Not satisfied, consider Xiaomi.EU (optimized version without bloatware) or LineageOS (requires unlocking the bootloader).

If you have decided to update, first:

1. Make a backup through Settings → Additional → Backup.
2. Write down the current version of MIUI (in case of rollback).
3. Make sure the battery is at least 50% charged.

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To check the stability of the new firmware before installing on the main device, use the Redmi Note 9 as a secondary phone for 2-3 days.

FAQ: Frequent questions about rollback updates on Redmi Note 9