Android 11 was one of the landmark updates to Xiaomi’s ecosystem, bringing not only the new MIUI interface, but also a deep reworking of privacy management mechanisms. The Chinese giant’s device owners around the world were looking forward to their gadgets migrating to the new version of the software, as it ensured support for current applications and improved optimization of the processor. Xiaomi traditionally updates its devices in several stages, starting with flagship models and gradually moving to the budget segment.
Implementing a new operating system is a complex technical process that requires adapting drivers and user shells to a specific hardware. That is why Xiaomi smartphones receive updates unevenly, and it is important for owners to understand where their model is at. In this article, we will discuss in detail the full list of devices that are officially confirmed for the update, and also consider the nuances of installing firmware.
It’s worth noting that the transition to Android 11 is often accompanied by the installation of the MIUI 12 or MIUI 12.5 shell, which dramatically changes the visual style and functionality of the menu. Users need to be prepared for the changes in navigation and new security settings that now play a key role in protecting personal data. Below we will present structured information that will help you navigate the update schedule.
Key features of Android 11 on Xiaomi devices
The transition to a new version of the operating system is not just a change in numbers in the settings, but a fundamental change in how the smartphone interacts with applications and users. Android 11 is based on the concept of “conversation”, which brings notifications from instant messengers to a separate, priority block. For owners of Xiaomi, this means more convenient access to correspondence on WhatsApp, Telegram and other popular services directly from the lock screen.
Another important feature is the redesigned permissions system, which allows apps to access the camera, microphone or geolocation only “once” — a critical security feature, as many programs tend to abuse background data requests. Xiaomi has integrated these features into its shell by adding additional visual indicators to show when an app is using your camera or microphone.
Also worth mentioning is improved media content management. Android 11 has a dedicated section in the Quick Settings menu where you can switch tracks or control video playback without opening the app itself. On devices with Snapdragon and MediaTek processors, this feature works smoothly and allows you to quickly change the source of the output of sound, for example, switch from speakers to a Bluetooth headset.
⚠️ Note: Be sure to back up all important data before upgrading, as switching between major versions of Android can sometimes cause unforeseen crashes or loss of some user information.
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Before updating, take a picture of the current settings of important applications (such as banking or enterprise) to quickly restore their configuration after a reboot.
Integrating new features requires resources, so older models can run a little slower once installed, but subsequent security and optimization patches usually fix the initial problems, returning the system to its former responsiveness.
The flagship series Mi and Mi Note, getting an update
Traditionally, the first new version of the operating system receive flagship devices with maximum performance. In the case of Android 11, the list of leaders was headed by the models of the Mi 10 and Mi 11 series. These smartphones were released with the new OS or received it among the first thanks to the powerful hardware that easily copes with the increased requirements of software.
The Mi Note 10 series also made the list of lucky ones, which was good news for owners, as the device was positioned as a photo flagship. The update brought them not only a new interface, but also improved photo processing algorithms that now work in conjunction with the new capabilities of Android 11 to manage the image clipboard.
Owners of the Mi 9 and Mi 9 Pro series devices were also lucky, although the update was delayed for them. Xiaomi engineers took longer to optimize the Snapdragon 855 processors for the new system architecture to avoid overheating and fast battery discharge, which were encountered in early beta versions.
It is important to understand that even within a single series, updates can come in stages, and regional features and carrier certification can affect the date of receipt of the notice of availability of new firmware.
Update of Redmi Note smartphones and budget series
The budget and mid-range segment is Xiaomi’s most popular market, and that’s where Android 11 was the most popular for users. The Redmi Note 9 series has become one of the most popular upgrades. The update has become especially important for these devices, as it has extended their current support and improved multitasking.
The Redmi Note 8 and Redmi Note 8 Pro models were also included in the update schedule, which came as a surprise to many considering their age.However, Xiaomi decided to support these devices by giving them a MIUI 12 shell based on Android 11.This allowed budget smartphones to get modern protection features and new design, although some heavy animations on them may work less smoothly than on flagships.
The Redmi 9 series and its modifications (9A, 9C, 9i) are also covered by the update, and for these models, optimization was carried out especially carefully so that the new system does not “suffocate” modest hardware resources, users of these devices are advised to be patient, since sending a stable version can take considerable time due to the huge number of units sold.
⚠️ Note: On budget models with less than 4 GB of RAM after upgrading to Android 11, it is recommended to close background applications through the menu of recent tasks to ensure stable interface operation.
You should not expect an instant update to all devices at the same time. the schedule depends on the region of sale and the specific modification of the smartphone (Global, EU, China version).
List of POCO smartphones with support for Android 11
The POCO brand, which has spun off into a standalone lineup, is also actively updating its devices.The POCO F2 Pro and POCO X3 NFC/NF Pro models have received an update among the first in their class. These performance-focused smartphones are ideal for testing new gaming features and memory management improvements that Android 11 brought.
The popular POCO M3 is also included in the list of supported devices. For this model, the update was an important step in improving the stability of the interface, as early versions of MIUI based on Android 10 could slow down.
To the owners of the series POCO X2 (which is a rebranding of Redmi K30) You should also expect or already receive updates. It is important to follow the official announcements in the Service app or in the community forum, as for the purpose of the service, you can use the service. POCO-Devices sometimes come out separate firmware branches, different from global Redmi.
Why are POCOs updated separately?
Full table of compatible models by series
For ease of perception, we have organized the information about supported devices into a single table. Please note that the list may be supplemented by region, and some models may receive an update later than others. Always check the relevance of the information in your device settings.
Having a model in the table ensures a stable firmware version. Beta versions can be available for a wider range of devices through the Mi Pilot program, but for everyday use, it is recommended to wait for a global release.
| Series of devices | Key models | MIUI shell version | Issue status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mi flagships | Mi 11, Mi 10, Mi 9, Mi Note 10 | MIUI 12 / 12.5 | Completed. |
| Redmi Note | Note 9, Note 8 Pro, Note 8 | MIUI 12 / 12.5 | Completed. |
| POCO series | POCO F2 Pro, X3 NFC, M3 | MIUI 12 / 12.5 | Completed. |
| Budget Redmi | Redmi 9, 9A, 9C, 8A | MIUI 12 | In progress / Completed |
If your model is not listed or status is not determined, it could mean that the device is technically unable to support the new security features of Android 11, or the update is in deep beta testing.
How to install the update correctly and avoid errors
The process of updating the operating system on Xiaomi smartphones is as automated as possible, but requires compliance with a number of rules to eliminate risks. OTA-Update (Over-The-Air) Go to the Settings menu for this. → The phone. → Version. MIUI and press the update check button.
If you don't get an automatic update, you can use the manual method through Recovery, download the firmware archive from the official site, rename it to update.zip and place it at the root of internal memory. Then click on the update menu at three dots in the corner and select Select the firmware file.
☑️ Checklist before update
During installation, do not try to interrupt the process, even if the phone seems to be hanging. Progress indicator can freeze at a certain percentage - this is normal operation of the system with the file system. Forced reboot at this point can lead to the loss of the boot partition and the need to flash through the computer.
⚠️ Warning: Never update your smartphone if it has been unlocked (bootloader unlocked) and third-party kernel modifications are installed on it - this can cause version conflict and cyclic reboot.
After successful installation, the system can perform additional optimization of applications during the 10-20 During this time, the phone can warm up and run slowly — let it complete its internal processes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In this section, we will answer the most popular questions that users have when waiting for or installing a new version of Android. If you encounter a problem that is not on the list, we recommend you contact the official service center.
Why haven’t I received an Android 11 update yet?
Will Android 11 Update Delete All My Data and Photos?
Can I roll back on Android 10 if I don’t like the new version?
Will the phone stop working after the update?
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Official updates via the settings menu are the most secure method, saving all user data and guaranteeing system integrity.