Xiaomi Redmi 5, released in 2017, is still a popular budget smartphone among users who appreciate reliability and simplicity. However, with the release of new versions of MIUI and Android, device owners are increasingly wondering whether it is worth waiting for official updates or it is time to switch to custom firmware? In this article, we will analyze the current information about support for Redmi 5, the schedule of updates and alternative ways to upgrade the system.
It is important to understand that Xiaomi has a clear policy of device support: budget models usually receive updates within 2-3 years after release. Redmi 5 (codename rosy) came with Android 7.1 Nougat and the latest official version of MIUI 12.5 based on Android 10. But this does not mean that the possibilities for updates are exhausted.
Xiaomi's official update policy for Redmi 5
Xiaomi divides devices into three categories by support time:
- 📱 Flagship models (e.g. Mi 11, Xiaomi 13) – up to 4 years of updates.
- 💰 Mid-size segment (Redmi Note 10, POCO X3) — 2–3 years.
- 🪙 Budget smartphones (Redmi 5, Redmi) 4A) — 1.5-2 years.
Redmi 5 is in the third category, and its official support ended in 2020.The last major update was MIUI 12.5 based on Android 10, released in early 2021. However, this does not mean that the device is completely deprived of chances for updates.
To see if you should wait for updates, pay attention to the status of the device in the MIUI database:
- ✅ Active support – regular updates (not relevant for Redmi 5).
- ⚠️ Limited support – only security patches (possible for Redmi 5 in 2026).
- ❌ Terminated – no official updates (probable status).
⚠️ If your Redmi 5 is working on the MIUI 12.5 or older, new official firmware is unlikely, the risk of installing unofficial versions is the loss of warranty (if it is still valid) and possible errors in the work.
How to check the current version of MIUI and Android on Redmi 5
Before you look for updates, make sure your device doesn’t miss the latest available updates.
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Scroll to MIUI version – the current firmware is listed here (e.g. MIUI 12.5.1.0).
- Below, find the Android version is the system base (e.g. Android 10 QKQ1.190910.002).
If MIUI is below 12.5, there is a chance that the update hasn't been installed yet.
☑️ Checking available updates
| MIUI version | Android version | Status of Support (2026) | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIUI 9–11 | Android 7–9 | Obsolete. | Upgrade to MIUI 12.5 manually |
| MIUI 12–12.5 | Android 10 | The latest official | Security patches may not be available |
| MIUI 13+ | Android 11+ | Informal ports | Set at your own risk and risk |
If the system reports that updates are not available, it means one of two things:
- 🔄 Your version. MIUI 12.5 - The Last for Redmi 5.
- 🌍 Update comes gradually (by region or batch of devices).
Why Redmi 5 is not getting new updates: technical reasons
Xiaomi is ending support for devices for a reason. There are several objective reasons for Redmi 5:
- Hardware restrictions: 🧠 Qualcomm Snapdragon processor 450 Does not support new versions of Android (requires Treble or GSI). 📉 2/3 GB RAM is not enough for MIUI 13+ (System requirements – minimum 4 GB).
- Economic feasibility: 💸 The cost of testing updates for outdated models exceeds the potential profit. 📱 Xiaomi is focusing on new devices (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5).
Google also restricts support for older versions of Android, for example, since 2023, apps in Google Play require Android 8.0+, and many services (such as Google Pay) no longer work on Android 7-9.
What is Project Treble and why is it important for Redmi 5?
⚠️ Note: Installing unofficial firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience) on Redmi 5 may result in a camera or module that is not working. NFC (If you have one, or problems with your mobile network. Check the forum reviews before installing. XDA Developers or 4PDA.
Alternative ways to update Redmi 5: custom firmware
If there are no official updates and you want to try fresh Android, consider custom firmware. Redmi 5 is available:
- 📱 LineageOS 18.1 (Android 11) - stable, but with bugs in the camera.
- 🤖 Pixel Experience (Android 12) – the interface is like Google Pixel, but can slow down.
- ⚡ Havoc-OS (Android 10) – optimized for weak devices.
The installation process shall include:
- Unlock bootloader (requires permission from Xiaomi)
- Install custom recovery (e.g. TWRP).
- Firmware via fastboot or ADB.
💡
Before installing custom firmware, back up your data via TWRP or Swift Backup, which will save your photos, contacts and messages if something goes wrong.
Where to look for firmware:
- 🌐 Official website of LineageOS (lineageos.org).
- 💬 Forum 4PDA (theme).
- 🛠️ XDA Developers (Redmi 5 section).
How to speed up the release of the update for Redmi 5: myths and reality
You can find tips on the Internet to speed up updates, from resetting to resetting your region, and what really works and what doesn't.
| Method | Efficiency | Risks. |
|---|---|---|
| Reset to factory settings | ❌ No. | Data loss, but updates won't accelerate |
| Replacement of the region with China/India | ⚠️ Possibly (if there is an update in the area) | Unknown applications (such as Mi Pay) may appear |
| Handheld firmware via fastboot | ✅ Yes. | Risk of “bricking” in case of error |
| Use of VPN | ❌ No. | No use for MIUI updates |
The only reliable way to get an update is manually installing it through:
- Settings → System Update → Three dots (menu) → Select a firmware file.
- Mi Flash Tool (for full firmware via PC)
You can download official firmware on the Xiaomi website (select the Redmi 5 (rosy) model).
💡
If the update doesn’t come automatically, but you’re sure it should, try downloading it manually from the official website and installing it through the update menu.
What to do if the update to Redmi 5 has not come out
If Xiaomi has finally stopped supporting Redmi 5, you have a few options:
- 🔄 Optimize the current system: Turn off animations in Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (slip 7 once) → Additional settings → Window/Switch animation (select) 0.5x). Remove unnecessary system applications through ADB (for example, pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.weather).
- 📱 Buy a new smartphone: Budget alternative: Redmi 10A or POCO M5. Updates to 2026: Redmi Note 12 or Xiaomi 13 Lite.
- 🛠️ Try the custom firmware (see section above).
If you decide to stay on Redmi 5, follow these tips to extend the life of your device:
☑️ Optimizing Redmi 5 for long-term performance
⚠️ Note: When using Redmi 5 on Android 7-9, avoid installing apps that require Android 10+ (This can cause crashes or overheating. Check compatibility on the APKMirror site before installing.
Forecasts for 2026-2026: should we wait for updates for Redmi 5
Given Xiaomi’s current policy and Redmi 5’s technical limitations, the likelihood of new official updates is nearing zero.
- ✅ Security patches: In rare cases, Xiaomi releases patches for critical vulnerabilities (e.g., security patches, CVE-2023-XXXX).
- ❌ Big updates MIUI: MIUI 13/14 for Redmi 5 No support for Android, no support for Android 11+.
- ⚠️ Unofficial ports: The developer community can release Android 12/13, without guarantee of stability.
If you are hoping for a miracle, follow the news:
- 📢 Official Twitter Xiaomi (@Xiaomi).
- 🌍 Website MIUI Updates Tracker (miuitracker.com).
- 💬 Telegram channels (@miuirus).
We predict that Redmi 5 will remain on MIUI 12.5 for the rest of its lifecycle, and if you need new features, consider buying a more modern device or switching to custom firmware (with all the risks in mind).