Owning a Xiaomi or Redmi smartphone often requires users to identify the device accurately, which may be required to search for drivers, purchase security glass or firmware through special utilities. Just knowing the Redmi Note 12 model is not enough, since completely different modifications with different hardware can be hidden inside the same model range.
Android in the MIUI shell or the new HyperOS stores all technical information in hidden sections. However, the standard settings menu does not always show the detail required by advanced users or service center wizards. Below we will discuss all available methods, from simple clicks on the menu to the use of engineering codes.
Understanding the differences between the software version, the Android version and the model code name is critical when installing customized backups or patches. An error in choosing a firmware file can cause the gadget to fail, so identification should be carried out as accurately as possible. We will look at both software and hardware verification methods.
Checking through the standard settings menu
The most obvious and secure way to get basic information is to use the built-in interface of the system. The path to data may vary slightly depending on the version of the MIUI shell, but the logic remains the same for all devices of the brand. You do not need root rights or a computer connection.
To start, open the Settings app and scroll to the bottom of the list, and you'll find the About Phone item, and that's where the primary model information is, but to see a particular version of the OS build, you have to do an additional step, which is to tap the software version logo.
Click 5-7 times in a row on the line that shows the MIUI version (e.g. MIUI 14.0.5). After that, the screen blinks and the pop-up message "Additional features activated" will appear.
- 📱 Android Version: The basic platform on which the shell runs (e.g. Android 13).
- 🔢 Version. MIUI/HyperOS: Number of the current interface assembly and system utilities.
- 🆔 Internal version: Unique build identifier important for rollbacks or flashing.
- 📅 Update: When exactly this version of the software was installed on your device.
⚠️ Warning: Do not attempt to manually change the values in the engineering menu, which may open after multiple clicks.
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Record or photograph the current version of the build before installing the updates "over the air." If the new version turns out to be buggy, you will know which particular stab version to return to.
Use of the engineering menu and USSD-code
To get more technical information, including data on the radio module and the exact code of the region, there are special service codes, enter these commands in the phone app (call) gives access to diagnostic utilities, this method works even if the screen of the smartphone is broken, but the touch screen partially responds.
The most universal code for Xiaomi devices is ##6484##. By typing it in, you will be taken to the CIT (Customer Interactive Test) menu, where you can not only check the performance of sensors, but also see the exact codename of the model, which is often required to search for firmware on forums.
Another useful code is ##4636##. It opens the test menu. The phone information section contains data on signal, network type and IMEI. For specialists, the Build number parameter is important, which is displayed in full format, including the region index (CN, Global, EEA, RU).
There is also a code *#06# that instantly displays the IMEI and serial number, and although it doesn't show the software version directly, the serial number (SN) in service centers can tell you what factory equipment is and when the device was manufactured.
- 🔍 CIT Menu: Complete diagnosis of all components of the smartphone.
- 📡 Network Info: Detailed Connection and SIM Card Data.
- 🏭 Factory data: Information on the date of assembly and the region of delivery.
- 🛠 Debug Information: Logs and Technical Parameters of the System Core.
⚠️ Note: Some global firmware versions may have the codes blocked by the manufacturer for security reasons. ADB third-party.
Version definition via computer and ADB
If the smartphone screen is not working or the device is in recovery mode, the only way to know the version is to connect to a PC, which requires installing Xiaomi USB Drivers and the ADB utility (Android Debug Bridge), which gives the most reliable data.
After connecting your smartphone to your computer and enabling USB debugging (if the screen is available), open the command line in the folder with ADB. Enter the adb device command to make sure the device is visible to the system. If everything goes well, you will see the serial number of the device.
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.incrementalThis command will output the exact firmware number of the current firmware. To get a complete list of characteristics, including the processor model and screen density, use the command adb shell getprop. The output will be hundreds of lines, but we are interested in fields starting with ro.product.model and ro.build.version.release.
What if the ADB can’t see the device?
For users who are afraid of the command line, there are graphical shells such as Mi Flash Tool or Xiaomi ADB/Fastboot Tools. When connecting a smartphone in Fastboot mode (clamping the volume button when turned on), these programs automatically read all information about the chipset and the current version of the bootloader.
Analysis of packaging and stickers on the body
Physical inspection of the device and its configuration is a "hardened concrete" way to know the version if the phone is not turning on. There is always a barcode sticker on the back of the box and basic information, and this is especially true when buying a used device to make sure the box matches the contents.
The label should be of interest to you: Model is the marketing name (e.g. Redmi Note 12 Pro). Type is the technical index of the model (e.g. 22101320G). The letter at the end of the index indicates the region: G - Global, C - China, E - Europe, R - Russia.
| Parameter on the sticker | Description | Example of meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Model | Commercial name | Redmi Note 12 |
| Type | Technical code of the model | 22101320G |
| IMEI 1 / IMEI 2 | Unique SIM identifiers | 86xxxx... / 86xxxx... |
| S/N | Serial number of the device | K19A... |
| Color | Color of the case | Midnight Black |
Also on some models, the information is duplicated on a sticker under the back cover (if it is removable) or on the tray for SIM-In the latter case, laser engravings on the tray often contain a short model code that helps distinguish the Chinese version from the global one.
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The coincidence of the model code on the box and in the About Phone menu is the main sign that the device was not refashioned by the artisanal method with a change in the region.
Differences between the Chinese and Global Version
Understanding the difference between regional firmware versions is critical. Chinese versions (CN) often have earlier Android updates, but are devoid of advertising and have advanced functionality in themes. Global versions are adapted to our communication frequencies and have Google services pre-installed.
Visually, the versions can be distinguished by the LTE frequency set. Chinese versions may not support Band 20, which is critical for 4G in rural Russia and Europe, Chinese firmware also lacks native multi-window, and notifications work differently due to aggressive energy saving.
When reflashing the Chinese version to the global (Global) ROM) You often need to unlock the bootloader, and if you do it wrong, you can get a device that's not working. NFC Widevine L1 (will not HD-Always check the regional code before buying or upgrading.
- 🇨🇳 CN (China: No Google Play out of the box, there are Chinese apps, no Band 20.
- 🌍 Global: Full language support, all frequencies, Google certification.
- 🇪🇺 EEA: European version, differs in volume restrictions in headphones.
- 🇷🇺 RU: The Russian version is often based on EEA or Global with localization.
⚠️ Warning: Installing global firmware on a Chinese device without unlocking the bootloader (by changing the region to Mi Flash) may result in the device being blocked from your Mi Account.
Frequent questions about MIUI and HyperOS versions
Users often confuse the notions of "the Android version" and "the MIUI version." Android is the core of the system that is updated less frequently. MIUI (or HyperOS) is an add-on that can be updated weekly or monthly, bringing new design and features even if the Android version remains the same.
There's also the notion of stable and developer, and stable builds are designed for the mass user and are tested. Beta versions come out more often, contain new features, but may have bugs, and you can switch between them through the update menu by tapping three dots in the corner of the screen.
☑️ Check before buying used Xiaomi
In conclusion, regular software version checks not only help keep data secure, but also extend the life of the device, and newer versions often include battery optimization and vulnerability fixes.