Redmi Note 4: How to upgrade Android to Xiaomi – the full guide

The Redmi Note 4, which was released a few years ago, is still popular today thanks to its robust metal body and powerful Snapdragon 625 processor. However, over time, standard methods for getting updates by air stop working as official servers stop supporting older models. Owners often wonder if the software can still be updated and whether it is worth it.

There are several proven ways to install a more recent version of the MIUI shell, even if automatic updates no longer offer new files.The firmware process requires care, but allows the device to be re-lived by improving security and compatibility with modern applications. In this article, we will break down all the available methods, from simple to advanced.

Before you start any manipulation of system files, you need to clearly understand the current state of your gadget. The official latest version for the global model Redmi Note 4 (codename markw) is MIUI 12.5 based on Android 9 Pie. Further updates are possible only through custom firmware, which requires unlocking the bootloader.

Checking the current version and preparing the device

The first step should always be to diagnose the current state of the system, and you need to know exactly what version of MIUI is installed now and what type of bootloader you have, and this is critical to choosing the right firmware file, go to the settings menu and find the About Phone section.

This shows all the information you need: build number, Android version and processor type. Write this down or take a screenshot. If you plan to update manually, an error in the selection of the region (Global, China, Russia) can lead to the device failure.

⚠️ Warning: Don't start the process if the battery is below 60%: Interrupting system file recording due to discharge can turn the phone into a "brick».

Also make sure that the device is USB debugging enabled if you plan to use a computer. To do this, activate the developer mode by quickly tapping the build number seven times in the About Phone menu.

Automatic update via the settings menu (OTA)

The easiest and most secure method that works while Xiaomi servers store distributions for your model, the system will check for the new version and suggest downloading it. You don't have to search for files on the Internet or use a cable.

To run the check, go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. Click on the system logo or the “Check Updates” button. If the server responds that a new version is found, the download will begin.

• 📲 Click “Download and install” and wait until the process is over.
• 🔄 The device will automatically restart and apply update packages.
• ✅ After turning on, check the version in the same menu.

If the system says, "No updates found," it means that your phone is already on the last official version available to it, or the servers have stopped supporting, in which case, move to manual methods.

Manual installation of firmware through Recovery

When automatic search doesn’t work, you can use the method of manually installing a zip archive, which requires you to download the correct firmware file from a reliable source, such as the official Xiaomi website or verified archives like the Xiaomi Firmware Updater.

The file should have a.zip extension and weigh about 1.5–2GB. Place it at the root of the phone's internal memory. Then go back to the system update menu, but this time click on the three dots in the top right corner of the screen.

In the menu that opens, select "Select firmware file" and specify the downloaded archive. The system will check the integrity of the data. If the file is suitable for your model, the installation process will begin.

⚠️ Warning: Make sure you download the firmware specifically for your region (Global for global version, RU Installing China firmware on a Global device will require unlocking the bootloader.

This method allows you to upgrade even through one version, for example, from MIUI 9 to MIUI 12, if the architecture allows, but the cross-region update is blocked in this way.

Using the Mi Flash Tool for PC

A more advanced method that requires a computer and a USB cable: The Mi Flash Tool allows you to install firmware in.img or unpacked zip archives, a method often used when the phone is hanging on the screensaver or you need to install the system cleanly.

First, you need to put the smartphone in Fastboot mode. To do this, you need to press the device off with a volume button and connect the cable to the PC. The image of a rabbit repairing an android will appear on the screen.

Further, the actions are performed in the following sequence:

1. Unpack the downloaded firmware in the root of the C disk so that the path does not contain Cyrillic.
2. Run the Mi Flash Tool on behalf of the administrator.
3. Press the Refresh button so that the program sees the device.
4. Choose the path to the firmware folder and click Flash.

The process can take 300 to 600 seconds. Once successfully completed, the phone will automatically restart. The first run can take up to 10 minutes.

Comparison of Update Methods and Risks

Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages: Automatic updates are safe but rarely available for older models; manual installation via Recovery is versatile but requires file search; PC firmware is the most powerful tool, but also the riskiest for beginners.

The table below compares the main characteristics of the methods:

The main risk in any manipulation is data loss or software failure. Always back up your contacts and photos before you start work. Use cloud services or transfer files to your computer.

💡

Use the Mi Mover app to quickly transfer all data to a new phone or to create a full backup before upgrading.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Even with detailed instructions, users have specific questions, and the following are the answers to the most popular ones, which are related to the Redmi Note 4.

💡

Unlocking the bootloader is the only way to get to Android 10+, but it’s a complicated process that requires waiting 7 days and having a Mi Account.