When will the update for Xiaomi Redmi Note 9: official data and forecasts for 2026

Contents

• Introduction: Relevance of updates for Redmi Note 9
• Xiaomi’s official update schedule for 2026
• What Android and MIUI versions to expect
• How to check the current version of the firmware
• Methods of installing updates (3 methods)
• Typical problems after updating and their solution
• Alternative Firmware: Should You Move
• Frequent Questions (FAQ)

Xiaomi Redmi Note 9, released in May 2020, is still one of the most popular budget devices of the brand. However, with the release of new models, owners are wondering when the next update for their device will be released and whether it should be waited for? In this article, we will analyze the official data from Xiaomi, experts’ forecasts and the real prospects for supporting the device in 2026.

It’s important to understand that Redmi Note 9 (codenamed merlin) originally ran on Android 10 with the shell MIUI 11. In 4 years of existence, it has received several major updates, but now is on the verge of ending official support. However, there are nuances: some regions may receive updates longer than others, and alternative firmware opens up new opportunities.

If you are planning to upgrade your Redmi Note 9, this guide will help you understand:

• 📅 Official firmware release dates (according to Xiaomi and insiders)
• 🔄 Installation methods (automatically, manually, via Fastboot)
• ⚠️ Possible risks and how to avoid them
• 🛠️ Alternatives to extend the life of the device

Xiaomi’s official update schedule for 2026

According to Xiaomi’s policy, the Redmi Note series budget smartphones receive 2 major Android updates and 3-4 years of security updates. For the Redmi Note 9, this means:

The last official update for the Redmi Note 9 (merlin) was released on March 12, 2026 under the number MIUI 14.0.5.0.SJOMIXM (Global).The next update, if it happens, will be final and will be released no later than December 2026.

Insider sources (e.g., Telegram’s @MIUIUpdatesTracker channel) report that Xiaomi may release another patch to:

• 🔋 Optimizing battery operation (eliminating fast discharge on the MIUI 14)
• 📶 Improved stability of mobile network (issues with the 4G/5G in some regions)
• 🔒 Closing critical security vulnerabilities (e.g, CVE-2026-2563)

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi Note 9 is purchased in China (the C-suffix version in the model), updates to it stopped in January 2023. → The phone. → Version. MIUI.

What Android and MIUI versions to expect

The Redmi Note 9 won't get Android 13 or later - this is officially confirmed by Xiaomi.

• 📱 MIUI 14 based on Android 12 – the latest stable version
• 🛡️ Monthly security patches until the end of 2026 (but not for all regions)
• 🔄 Possible "cosmetic" updates (new wallpaper, icons) within the framework of the MIUI 14

For comparison, here are the versions that received similar models:

As you can see, even within the same line of support is different. Redmi Note 9 (without the prefix Pro/S/5G) received fewer updates due to the weaker processor MediaTek Helio G85 and less RAM (3/4 GB in the base version).

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If you’re critically interested in new versions of Android, consider buying the POCO M6 Pro or Redmi Note 13, which will receive updates until 2026-2027.

How to check the current version of the firmware

Before you wait for the new update, make sure your Redmi Note 9 has the latest version available.

1. Open the settings (cog icon).
2. Scroll down and select About Phone.
3. Slip on the MIUI version.
4. Compare the firmware number with the latest versions in the table below.

Update versions for the Redmi Note 9 (merlin) for June 2026:

If your version is different, then you have an update available. If it matches, there are no new firmware for your region yet.

Methods of installing updates (3 methods)

There are three official ways to update the Redmi Note 9, depending on the situation:

1. Automatic Air Update (OTA)

The easiest and safest method is if:

• ✅ You have a stable Wi-Fi connection
• ✅ Enough space on the phone (minimum 3GB free)
• ✅ Battery charged at 50% or more

Instructions:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. If the update is available, tap Download.
4. After download, click Set and wait for the reboot.

Manual installation via Recovery

It's fine if OTA-update doesn't come, but you found the official package on Xiaomi's website:

Download firmware from the official website (only for your model and region)| Check checksum (MD5) of the file | Copy update.zip file to the root of the phone memory | Charge the phone at least 70% | Make a backup of the data-->

Next:

1. Go to Settings → About the phone → System update.
2. Slip on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Select the update file.
3. Please provide a path to update.zip.
4. Confirm the installation and wait for completion.

⚠️ Warning: Never download firmware from third-party sites! Use only official sources: 🌍 Global MIUI Downloads 🇷🇺 Russian MIUI Files from unverified resources may contain viruses or spyware.

3. Installation via Fastboot (for experienced)

This method is used if the phone is not turned on or requires a complete flashing. It requires unlocking the bootloader and can lead to data loss!

Instructions:

1. Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool.
2. Download Fastboot firmware for your model.
3. Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (clip Power + Volume down).
4. Run the script. flash_all.bat (Windows) or similar command in the terminal.

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Fastboot firmware removes all data from the phone!Be sure to back up through Settings before the procedure → Additional → Backup and Reset → Local Backup.

Typical problems after updating and their solution

Even official updates sometimes cause crashes, and here are the most common issues on the Redmi Note 9 after the MIUI 14 update and how to fix them:

If the phone doesn’t turn on or hangs on the logo after the update, try:

1. Press Power + Volume up for 10 seconds (forced reboot).
2. If it doesn’t help, log in to Recovery (Nutrition + Volume Up) and select Wipe Cache.
3. In the extreme case, perform Wipe Data (full reset).

⚠️ Note: If after updating to MIUI 14 Root access is lost or Magisk modules are no longer working, you need to re-switch Magisk through TWRP. Use the latest version of Magisk Delta (v26.4+).

Alternative Firmware: Should You Move

If the official updates for the Redmi Note 9 are no longer coming out, you can consider custom firmware.

• 🆕 Newer versions of Android (up to Android 14)
• ⚡ Better performance (through optimization)
• 🔓 More freedom (Root, modifications)

But there are risks:

• ❌ Loss of warranty (if it is still valid)
• ❌ Possible bugs (unstable operation of the camera, sensors)
• ❌ Installation difficulty (skills required)

The following are the Redmi Note 9 (merlin) firmware:

To install custom firmware will require:

1. Unlock the loader (official instructions).
2. Install TWRP Recovery (e.g., 3.7.0 for merlin).
3. Download firmware and GApps (if you need Google services).
4. Swipe through TWRP (instructions are available on the XDA-Developers or 4PDA forums).

Frequent Questions (FAQ)