Modern Xiaomi smartphones require regular software updates for stable operation and security. Users often look for ways to install a new firmware on shaomi when the automatic air update (OTA) stops coming or runs with errors. Self-flashing allows you to bring the device back to life after crashes, change region or switch from the Chinese version to the global one.
The process of updating a MIUI system or a new HyperOS requires care and preparation. Errors during the downloading phase of a file or the selection of a mode can lead to the inoperability of the gadget, so it is important to follow the algorithm of actions. In this article, we will discuss all the current installation methods, from simple to advanced, that are used by service centers.
Preparation of the smartphone and choice of software version
The first step before any manipulation is to save important data. A complete reset or error in the recording process can destroy information, so back up your photos and contacts in the cloud or on your computer. Also make sure that the battery is at least 60%, as a sudden power outage during firmware is fatal to the system.
You need to determine the exact model of your device and the current version of the bootloader. Global files are suitable for global versions of smartphones, and China files are suitable for Chinese ones. Trying to install firmware from another region without unlocking the bootloader will lead to a signature verification error and a refusal to install.
You should only download files from trusted sources, such as the official miui.com website or authorized mirrors. Files have the.zip extension for updating through the recovery menu or.tgz for firmware through the computer. It is critical to check the checksum of the downloaded file to ensure its integrity and no damages during download.
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Use the original. USB-cable supplied as a package, as cheap analogues often do not withstand long data transfer and can interrupt the connection at a critical moment.
How to update via the Recovery menu (without PC)
The safest and easiest method that doesn't require a computer is to install the archive through the built-in Recovery menu, which is suitable for major updates within a single region, such as switching from MIUI 12 to MIUI 13, and you'll need to manually download the desired firmware file and move it to the root folder of the smartphone's internal memory.
After transferring the file, go to the download mode selection menu. To do this, go to the settings, select About Phone and click on the MIUI version. In the window that opens, click three dots in the corner and select Select firmware file. The system will check the archive and prompt you to start the update process.
If the standard path doesn't work, you can use the engineering menu. Click multiple times in a row on the MIUI version until it says "Additional Features." Then select a file and confirm the action. The phone will restart and start installing, which can take 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of data.
☑️ Checking before recovery firmware
Use of Fastboot and Mi Flash Tool
To clean the system deeper and change the region, you often need Fastboot mode, which allows you to completely erase the old system and write the new one clean, which solves many software errors. You will need a Windows computer and an installed Mi Flash Tool, as well as Qualcomm or MediaTek drivers.
Put your smartphone into bootloader mode by turning it off and slamming down and power buttons at the same time. The screen will show a picture of a hare repairing an android, indicating that you have successfully entered Fastboot mode. Connect the device to your PC and start the flasher.
In the program interface, select the path to the unpacked firmware folder. Notice the three firmware modes at the bottom of the window: clean all, save user data, and clean all and lock. The latter option is only available when you install the original firmware for the region.
| Firmware mode | Data retention | Locking the loader | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|
| clean all | No. | No. | Changing the region, treating errors |
| save user data | Yes. | No. | Software update |
| clean all and lock | No. | Yes. | Return to baseline |
| Recovery mode | Depends. | No. | Alternative method |
After selecting the settings, press the "Flash" button. The process will take a few minutes, and at the end you will see a green success label.The device will automatically restart, and the first turn on may last longer than usual - this is normal for the application optimization stage.
What to do if the Mi Flash Tool gives an error? Most often the problem lies in the path to the firmware folder.
Local update via the Explorer menu
There's an alternative method of updating that doesn't require you to go to special modes, but only works when you upgrade the software, which is called Local Update, and it's activated through the standard settings menu, and it's convenient because it allows you to upgrade without using Wi-Fi if the Internet on your phone is unstable.
To activate the hidden function, go to the About Phone section and click 7-10 times on the MIUI version icon. After you see a message about enabling additional features, click on the three dots in the top corner of the screen. In the drop-down list, select Select a firmware file.
The system will suggest finding the.zip archive on your device. Find the previously downloaded file and confirm the selection. The smartphone will check the integrity of the data and, if the version in the file is newer than the current one, will suggest a reboot for installation. This method stores all user data without the need to back it up.
⚠️ Note: If you try to install an older firmware version through this method, the system will issue an error and refuse to roll back. Downgrade (downgrading version) requires Fastboot mode and complete data cleanup.
Solving common errors in firmware
In the process of flashing, users often encounter error codes that can scare the inexperienced person. One of the most common problems is the Miss matching image error, which occurs when you try to install firmware from another model or region, in which case you need to double-check the marking of the device and download the correct file.
Another common problem is hanging on the MI logo after installation. If the phone doesn't boot for more than 10 minutes, try a forced reboot by holding the power button for 15-20 seconds. If that doesn't work, you'll need to re-rout in Recovery mode with a full data cleanup.
- 🔌 Connection error: check out USB-cable and port, try another computer or port USB 2.0 instead of 3.0.
- 💾 Memory Error: Make sure there is enough free space on your phone to unpack temporary update files.
- 🔋 Power Error: The process is interrupted due to battery discharge, plug the charger and try again.
Sometimes the antivirus on the computer can block the Mi Flash Tool, considering its actions suspicious. During the procedure, it is recommended to temporarily disable the security software or add a folder with the utility to exceptions, this will allow drivers to freely interact with the memory of the smartphone.
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Most firmware errors are not due to a phone malfunction, but to an incorrectly selected firmware file or a bad one. USB-cable.
Security and locking of the loader
An important aspect of Xiaomi’s ecosystem is protection against unauthorized firmware reflashing, the bootloader of most devices is locked, which prevents the installation of modified systems or firmware from other regions without special permission.
Unlocked Bootloader gives full rights to the device, but reduces security. When the bootloader is unlocked, some banking applications may stop working and data protection will become less reliable.
⚠️ Warning: Once you lock the bootloader back (clean all and lock command) on a custom or non-original firmware device, the phone can turn into a brick.
The bootloader status check is done by a combination of power buttons and volume down when the phone is off, and if the word Unlocked is in orange in the status bar, it's off. It should be locked in the normal state.