Installing firmware on Xiaomi smartphones is a challenge that may seem challenging to beginners, but it really only requires attention and understanding the basic principles. Whether it is an official update via MIUI or installing custom firmware like LineageOS, the process has its own nuances. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of firmware, from automatic updates to manual installation through Fastboot or Recovery, taking into account the features of the latest Redmi models, POCO and Xiaomi 13/14 flagship series.
It's important to understand that firmware isn't just a software update. It's a complete system file replacement that can both improve performance and cause a device to fail. We'll go into detail on preparing, choosing the right firmware version, unlocking the bootloader and solving typical problems. If you've never done firmware before, start with the official methods and then move on to custom solutions.
1. Preparing the phone for firmware: what to do before the start
Before you start installing firmware, you need to follow a few critical steps, and neglecting them can lead to data loss, malfunctions or even device failure.
One is to back up all your important data. Firmware, especially custom ones, often requires a full Wipe reset that will delete photos, contacts, and apps. Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive, or local copy on your PC. Note: some custom firmware does not support automatic MIUI backup.
The second is to check the device model and the current firmware version. This can be done from the Settings → Phone menu. Write down the exact model name (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G, not just "Redmi Note 12") and the MIUI version (e.g. MIUI Global 14.0.5).
- 🔋 Charge your phone at least 60% – the firmware process can take up to 30 minutes, and battery drain at this point is critical.
- 🔌 Prepare quality. USB-cable (preferably original) and port USB 2.0 on PC — USB 3.0 sometimes causes connection problems in Fastboot mode.
- 🖥️ Install the latest driver versions on your computer ADB/Fastboot Mi Flash Tool (for official firmware).
- 📱 Turn on the debugging. USB Settings menu → The phone. → Version. MIUI (Tap 7 times according to version, then return to Additional settings → For developers).
⚠️ Note: If you plan to install custom firmware, make sure the bootloader is unlocked. On new Xiaomi devices (released after 2021), unlocking can take up to 720 hours (30 days) of waiting after you link your account.
2.Official ways to update firmware on Xiaomi
The safest and most recommended way is to use the built-in MIUI tools.It is suitable for most users who want to get the latest updates without the risk of damaging the device.
There are two official methods:
- Air Update (OTA) – Automatic notifications for new versions, suitable for small updates, but not always available for older models.
- Manual installation via Recovery – download the full firmware package (.zip) and install through standard recovery.
For manual installation:
- Download the firmware from MIUI Downloads (select your model and region: Global, EEA, China or Russia).
- Rename the file to update.zip and place it in the root directory of the phone’s internal memory.
- Go to Settings → About Phone → System Update, click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Select a firmware file.
- Confirm the installation and wait for the reboot.
| Method | Advantages | Deficiencies | Time of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| OTA (over the air) | Automatically, without risk. | Long wait for updates, not always stable | 5-15 minutes |
| Recovery (manual) | You can choose the version faster than OTA. | Requires file download, errors may occur when choosing the wrong firmware | 10-20 minutes |
| Fastboot (via PC) | Suitable for restoring "bricks", complete flashing | Harder for beginners, requires a PC and unlocked bootloader | 15-30 minutes |
⚠️ Note: If after updating via Recovery phone is stuck on the logo MI If you're 10 minutes longer, don't panic. Try to force the device to restart with a power button for 15 to 20 seconds. If that doesn't work, you'll need to run the Fastboot.
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Official firmware retains Xiaomi’s warranty, but may contain bloatware (preinstalled applications).
3. Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi: step-by-step instructions
To install custom firmware or modified versions of MIUI, you need to unlock the bootloader. Xiaomi has made this process more difficult in recent models, but it is still possible.
Here is the current algorithm for 2026:
- Link your Mi Account to your device: Go to Settings → Xiaomi account and log in. Enable data sync and confirm your phone number.
- Activate Developer Mode: Tap 7 times on the MIUI version in the About Phone menu. Return to Additional Settings → Developer and enable OEM Unlock and USB Debugging.
Connect the device to the PC
Mi Unlock Tool
- Download the latest version of the utility from the official website.
- Start the program, log in under the same Mi Account as on your phone.
- Follow the instructions – the tool will offer to link the device to the account and wait for unlocking (from 72 to 720 hours depending on the model).
⚠️ Note: Some custom firmware does not support data encryption on devices with Dynamic Partition (for example, Redmi Note 11 and later).If after installation, the phone asks for a password, but does not accept it, you will need to format Data in the new version. TWRP (The entire user section will be deleted!).
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Before installing custom firmware, check reviews on the XDA Developers or 4PDA forums – some builds may have critical bugs (such as a broken modem or camera).
Fastboot firmware: Brick recovery and clean installation
Fastboot mode is the most reliable way to flash a device if it doesn't turn on (called soft brick) or requires a complete system reinstallation, and it's also used to return to the official MIUI after custom firmware.
To run through Fastboot, you will need:
- 🖥️ Computer with drivers installed ADB/Fastboot.
- 📁 Official firmware in.tgz or.zip format (downloaded from Xiaomi website or via Mi Flash Tool).
- 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).