Xiaomi Redmi 4 Pro (codename markw) is still a popular budget smartphone, despite the release in 2017. owners of the device regularly wonder whether it is worth waiting for the official global firmware from Xiaomi or it is time to switch to custom solutions? In this article, we will analyze the current status of support for Redmi 4 Pro, analyze the history of MIUI updates for this model, and consider all available ways to get the latest version of Android – from official to alternative.
It is important to understand that Xiaomi has a clear policy of device support: budget models usually receive updates within 2-3 years from the release. For the Redmi 4 Pro, released in November 2016, the last official global update was released in 2019 (MIUI 11 based on Android 7.1 Nougat).
If you are looking for a specific release date for a new global firmware, we hasten to disappoint: Xiaomi officially stopped supporting the Redmi 4 Pro in 2020. But this is not a verdict! Next you will learn what options remain for owners, how to minimize the risks when installing custom firmware and what to do if the smartphone after the update stopped working.
Redmi 4 Pro Support Status in 2026
According to MIUI’s official website, Redmi 4 Pro (markw) is no longer receiving updates from Xiaomi, the latest stable global version being MIUI 11.0.2.0 (NCAMIXM) based on Android 7.1.1 Nougat, Released in May 2019.
- ❌ There will be no new official global firmware for this model.
- ❌ Google’s secure patches (monthly updates) are also not coming out.
- ✅ Support for regional firmware (for example, for India or China) was discontinued even earlier in 2018.
- ⚠️ The device is vulnerable to modern security threats (no fixes for Android vulnerabilities after 2019).
However, Xiaomi sometimes releases the latest update for older models as part of the MIUI Legacy program, but the Redmi 4 Pro is not included in it. If you were hoping for a miracle, it will not happen.
Why Xiaomi has stopped supporting Redmi 4 Pro?
The reasons for the Redmi 4 Pro’s discontinuation of updates are due to the company’s technical limitations and business strategy.
- Hardware limitations: the smartphone is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 processor and 3 GB of RAM, which is not enough for modern versions of Android (starting with Android 10). New MIUI features require more resources, and optimization for outdated hardware is economically impractical.
- Support policy: Xiaomi guarantees updates for budget models for 2 years (flagships - 3-4 years). Redmi 4 Pro was released in 2016, so support ended in 2019.
- Focus on new devices: The company focuses on current models (like the Redmi Note 13 Pro) rather than on outdated ones.
Interesting fact: some users still receive notifications about available updates in the smartphone settings. This is due to a data caching error in Settings → About Phone → System Update. If you see an offer to upgrade, check the firmware version on the official website to avoid downloading an outdated file.
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Before trying to manually update, always check the official MIUI archive.Some third-party sites distribute fake "new" firmware with malware.
Alternative ways to upgrade to Redmi 4 Pro
If there are no official updates, there are three legal options:
- Switch to custom firmware (for example, LineageOS, Pixel Experience).
- Installation of ported MIUI from enthusiasts (e.g. MIUI 12.5 for Redmi 4 Pro).
- Use of regional firmware (e.g. Indian or Chinese version of MIUI).
Let's look at each method in more detail.
1. Custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience)
The most popular way to upgrade to Redmi 4 Pro is to install unofficial firmware based on the new Android.
- 📱 LineageOS 18.1 (Android 11) – the most reliable custom firmware with regular updates.
- 📱 Pixel Experience (Android 10/11) — Firmware with pure Android and features from Google Pixel.
- 📱 Havoc-OS - customizable firmware with many settings.
- 📱 CrDroid – Optimized for weak iron version of Android 11.
Advantages of custom firmware:
- ✅ Support for new Android (up to Android 11).
- ✅ Regular security updates (monthly).
- ✅ No Bloatware (pre-installed Chinese apps).
- ✅ Better productivity through optimization.
Disadvantages:
- ❌ Requires unlocking the bootloader (risk of brick).
- ❌ Possible bugs (for example, non-functioning) NFC camera).
- ❌ No official support from Xiaomi (the warranty burns out).
What is a brick and how to avoid it?
2. Ported versions of MIUI
Enthusiasts are porting new versions of MIUI to older devices, for example, there is an informal MIUI 12.5 for Redmi 4 Pro based on Android 10.
- 🔧 Forum XDA Developers (Redmi 4 Pro).
- 🔧 Developer Telegram channels (e.g, MIUI Proving Ground).
- 🔧 Communities 4PDA.
Warning: Ported firmware often contains bugs, such as:
- ⚠️ Fingerprints are not working.
- ⚠️ Mobile network problems (no VoLTE).
- ⚠️ Fast battery discharge.
Unlock the bootloader (bootloader)|Install TWRP Recovery|Make a backup of the current firmware|Download firmware and GApps (if necessary)|Check the compatibility with the model (markw)|Charge your phone at least 60%-->
3. Regional firmware (India, China)
If you really need an official MIUI, you can try flashing the Indian or Chinese version.
| Region | MIUI version | Android | Release date | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India (IN) | MIUI 11.0.3.0 | 7.1.1 | June 2019 | Download |
| China (CN) | MIUI 12.0.2.0 | 7.1.1 | August 2020 | Download |
| Global (Global) | MIUI 11.0.2.0 | 7.1.1 | May 2019 | Download |
Note that Chinese firmware requires manual installation of Google services (through Open GApps or NikGApps) and lacks some features, such as Google Play Protect.
⚠️ Note: Installing regional firmware may cause loss IMEI or problems with the mobile network. IMEI using the *#06# command or application MTK Engineering Mode (for Snapdragon 625).
How to install Redmi 4 Pro
If you decide to install custom firmware, follow this algorithm. All actions you perform at your own risk!
Step 1: Unlock the bootloader
Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader on all devices to unlock it:
- Link your Mi Account to your phone in Settings → Additionally. → Developer → Mi Unlock status.
- Download the Mi Unlock Tool (Windows only).
- Transfer the phone to Fastboot mode (clip Power + Volume down).
- Connect to your PC and start the Mi Unlock Tool. Wait until unlocked (can take up to 720 hours!).
Step 2: Installation of TWRP Recovery
TWRP is a custom recovery required for firmware installation. Download the latest version for Redmi 4 Pro (markw) from the official website and run through fastboot:
fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0-markw.img
fastboot boot twrp-3.7.0-markw.imgStep 3: Installation of firmware
In TWRP, do the following:
- Make a backup of the current firmware (Backup → Select all partitions).
- Wipe Dalvik, Cache, System, Data (Wipe → Advanced Wipe)
- Install the firmware (Install) → Choose. ZIP-file).
- If you need Google services, install GApps (like NikGApps Basic).
- Reboot (Reboot → System)
⚠️ Note: If after firmware the phone is stuck on the logo MI After 15 minutes, there's been a mistake. TWRP (clamp down on power. + Volume up) and restore backup.
Frequent problems after updating and their solution
Even with a successful firmware, there can be problems.
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The mobile network is not working | No IMEI or incorrect APN settings | Restore the IMEI via the MTK Engineering Mode or manually add the operator's APN. |
| Fast battery discharge | Unoptimized kernel or background processes | Install the FrancoKernel core or calibrate the battery into TWRP. |
| The camera's not working. | No drivers or conflict with GApps | Switch Camera2API or install GCam with the right settings. |
| Phone overheats | Processor frequency is too high | Install Kernel Adiutor and limit the maximum CPU frequency. |
If none of these methods worked, go back to the stock firmware via the Mi Flash Tool.
- Download the official firmware for markw from the Xiaomi website.
- Unpack. ZIP-firmware.
- Connect your phone in Fastboot mode.
- In the Mi Flash Tool, select the firmware folder and click Flash.
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If the sound is gone or the sensor is not working after the firmware, chances are you have installed firmware for another model (for example, for Redmi 4A instead of 4 Pro).
Should we upgrade the Redmi 4 Pro in 2026?
The decision to update depends on your goals:
- ✅ It's worth updating if:
- ❌ Do not update if:
Alternatively, buy a new smartphone. In 2026, even budget models (like the Redmi Note 12 or Poco X5) offer Android 13, 90 Hz screen and 5G for up to 15,000 rubles. If your Redmi 4 Pro is used as a spare phone or for simple tasks (calls, instant messengers), the upgrade may not pay off the effort.