Why install updates through the Recovery and when it is necessary
Update the firmware through the standard menu MIUI It usually goes without problems, but there are situations where an alternative method through the Recovery becomes the only way out. OTA-Update or system refuses to install a new version because of corrupted files. Recavery (recovery mode) allows you to bypass these restrictions, but requires care - an error can turn the phone into a brick".
Another common case is the manual firmware of custom ROMs (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience) that are not supported by official tools, where recovery becomes a must-have, and it's important to understand that the procedure is different for TWRP (castom recovery) and MIUI Recovery (stock), the first option is more powerful, but requires pre-unlocking the bootloader, the second is simpler, but limited in functionality.
Before you start, check:
- 🔋 Battery charge of at least 50% (better than 70)+).
- 📱 The smartphone model is compatible with the selected firmware (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro does not support files for the device). POCO X3 Pro).
- 🔗 The firmware is downloaded from an official source (Xiaomi Firmware or trusted forums like Xiaomi Firmware). XDA Developers).
Preparation for installation: what to do before the firmware
The first step is backup, and even if the update is successful, there is still a risk of losing photos, contacts, or messages. Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive, or local copying on your PC.
- 📁 pup DCIM (photo/video).
- 📞 Contacts (export to.vcf).
- 🔑 Application passwords (write down or use Google Smart Lock).
Next, check the recovery version. Stock MIUI Recovery does not support installation of unofficial firmware, so custom ROMs will require TWRP.
- Turn off your smartphone.
- Press Power + Volume up until the Mi logo appears.
- In the Recovery menu, check the version at the bottom of the screen (e.g. MIUI Recovery 3.0 or TWRP 3.7.0).
If you have TWRP, upgrade to the latest version through the official website. For MIUI Recovery,.zip stock firmware downloaded from Xiaomi is enough.
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If the smartphone doesn't load even in a recaveri, try plugging it into a PC and using fastboot to flash it. For instructions for your model, look for 4PDA or XDA.
Downloading firmware: where to get files and how to avoid fakes
Official firmware for Xiaomi is divided into three types:
- 📦 Recovery ROM — for installation through stock Recovery (.zip).
- 📦 Fastboot ROM — For firmware via Mi Flash Tool (.tgz or.tar).
- 📦 OTA-Packages – Incremental updates (.zip, weigh less).
Only Recovery ROM is suitable for our task.
Download files only from verified sources:
| Source | Type of firmware | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Official Xiaomi website | Recovery/Fastboot | The safest option, but it may be an outdated version. |
| Xiaomi Firmware Updater | Recovery/Fastboot | Up-to-date builds, including beta versions. |
| XDA Developers | Custom ROM | Registration is required, and the risk of unofficial modifications is high. |
| 4PDA | Localized firmware | Often with pre-installed GMS for Russian users. |
Critical: Never download firmware from torrents or little-known sites — there is a high risk of getting a virus or a “brick” due to corrupt files. Before installing, check the hash amount (MD5 or SHA-1) of the downloaded file. Use utilities like 7-Zip (right-click → CRC SHA → SHA-1) and compare the result with the official value on the Xiaomi website.
How to check MD5-hash on Windows?
Installation with MIUI Recovery
This method is suitable for official MIUI firmware in.zip format. The main advantage is that you do not need to unlock the bootloader or install TWRP.
Download Recovery ROM for your model | Check battery power (minimum 50%)|Rename the firmware file to update.zip|Disable password/pattern lock protection
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Instructions:
- Copy the update.zip file to the root directory of internal memory (not to the folder!).
- Turn off your smartphone.
- Press Power + Volume Up to enter MIUI Recovery.
- Select the language (if available) and tap Install update.zip to System.
- Confirm the installation and wait until the completion (usually 5-15 minutes).
- After the reboot, the smartphone will launch with a new firmware.
⚠️ Warning: If the smartphone has been stuck on the Mi logo for more than 20 minutes after installation, force it to restart (Power) + Volume down for 10 seconds. If the problem recurs, go through the Fastboot.
Installation via TWRP: nuances and possible errors
TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is a customized recovery that allows you to install unofficial firmware, cores and modifications. However, it requires an unlocked bootloader (the instructions for unlocking are available on the Xiaomi website).
Installation algorithm:
- Copy the firmware (.zip) and, if necessary, Magisk (for root rights) to internal memory or microSD.
- Enter TWRP (Nutrition + Volume Up).
- Press the Wipe. → Advanced Wipe and mark: 🧹 Dalvik / ART Cache 🧹 System 🧹 Data (if you switch to a new version of Android) 🧹 Cache
Install
Magisk
Reboot System
Typical errors and decisions:
- 🚫 Error 7 — mismatch between the smartphone and firmware model. Check the file name (e.g, miui_HMNote10ProGlobal_V12.5.1.0.RKFMIXM_... It should contain the code of your model).
- 🚫 Error 255 is a corrupted firmware file. Download it and check it. MD5.
- 🚫 Hang on TeamWin – reset your settings via Wipe → Format Data (all data will be deleted!).
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If the smartphone does not turn on after firmware through TWRP, try flashing stock firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in clean all mode.
What to do if the update is not installed
If the process is interrupted or the smartphone refuses to see the firmware file, act according to the scheme:
- Check the file name: it should be in Latin, without spaces or special characters — update.zip.
- Format a memory card: If the firmware is on a microSD, format it in FAT32 (not exFAT!).
- Try another one. USB-Port or cable: Sometimes the problem is connecting to a PC when copying a file.
- Install the firmware through ADB Sideload: adb sideload path\to file.zip (requires enabled debugging by USB and ADB-driver).
If none of the methods helped, and the smartphone does not boot, there is still firmware through Fastboot:
- Download Mi Flash Tool and Fastboot ROM for your model.
- Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode (Power + Volume Down).
- In the program, select the firmware folder and press Refresh → Flash.
⚠️ Note: Fastboot firmware erases all data, including internal memory (userdata).If your smartphone had important files, try extracting them first through the device. TWRP (Mount → Connect to the PC on MTP).
How to Get Back Stock Recovery After TWRP
If you have been installing custom firmware but decided to return to the official MIUI Recovery, do the following:
- Download the stock firmware in the format of Fastboot ROM.
- Unpack it in a folder and find the recovery.img file.
- Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode and execute the command: fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
- Reboot to the reboot and check that the menu is standard.
After that, it is possible to establish official OTA-updates without problems if you plan to return to TWRP, Re-unlock the loader - the stock recavator will block it.