Xiaomi Mi 4: Which version of Android is out of the box and how to upgrade in 2026

Xiaomi Mi 4 is a legendary smartphone released in 2014, which became one of the first flagships of the company, combining powerful hardware and an affordable price. Despite its age, the device is still used by enthusiasts, but the question of compatibility with modern versions of Android remains relevant. In this article, we will analyze what firmware was on the Mi 4 originally, what updates were officially supported, and whether in 2026 you can install the current OS on it – albeit with reservations.

It’s important to understand that the Mi 4 came out in an era when Android 4.4 KitKat was the current version, and today even Android 10 is considered obsolete.However, thanks to the active community of custom firmware developers, the device received a second life, we will analyze the official and informal updates, their pros and cons, and give practical recommendations for installation.

If you are a Xiaomi Mi 4 owner and want to learn how to maximize the life of your gadget – this guide is for you. But be prepared for compromises: modern applications can work unstable, and some functions (for example, banking services) will refuse to run on outdated firmware.

Xiaomi Mi 4: Which version of Android started the story?

Xiaomi Mi 4 debuted in July 2014 with pre-installed MIUI V5, It was based on Android 4.4.3 KitKat, and it was one of the most stable versions. MIUI At the time, it offered a user interface with minimalist design and extensive customization capabilities, but within a few months, the company released an update to the new design. MIUI V6, It brought visual changes and optimizations.

Official support for updates to the Mi 4 continued until 2017, when the device received the latest stable version. MIUI 9 based on Android 6.0 Marshmallow.This was the final major update from Xiaomi — then the manufacturer focused on new models. However, even Android 6.0 at that time was already considered obsolete: Google released Android 7.0 Nougat a year earlier.

Interesting fact: in some regions (for example, in India) Mi 4 sold with slightly different firmware — MIUI 7 based on Android 5.0 Lollipop, which was due to local requirements for Google services, so out of the box, the device could have one of three versions of Android depending on the market:

• 📦 Android 4.4.3 KitKat (MIUI V5) — First audit for the global market;
• 📦 Android 5.0 Lollipop (MIUI 7) Indian and some Asian versions;
• 📦 Android 6.0 Marshmallow (MIUI (9) — final official update.

Check the current version of Android on your Mi 4 can be found in the Settings menu → The phone. → Android version, if you have it. MIUI 9 is likely to be the latest official firmware from Xiaomi.

Can you upgrade Xiaomi Mi 4 to Android 7, 8 or later? Official and unofficial ways

Unfortunately, Xiaomi has not officially released updates for the Mi 4 above Android 6.0. However, thanks to the community of custom firmware developers (for example, LineageOS, Pixel Experience, Resurrection Remix), the device received support for newer versions of Android - up to Android 10 (in rare cases).

Official updates (completed)

As mentioned, the latest update is MIUI 9 on Android 6.0. Attempts to install a newer one MIUI through settings → The system update will lead to a message, “Updates are not available.” Xiaomi closed support for Mi 4 in 2017, and it will not be possible to return it.

2. Custom firmware (informal support)

Enthusiasts ported to the Mi 4 several alternative firmware:

• 🤖 LineageOS 16/17.1 (Android 9/10) — It's the most stable custom firmware for this device, supports most features, but it can be slower than the original. MIUI;
• 📱 Pixel Experience (Android 10) — firmware with pure Android and Google Pixel branded chips. Requires manual patching for Google services;
• ⚡ Resurrection Remix (Android 7.1/8.1) — firmware with extensive customization settings, but less stable than LineageOS;
• 🔄 MIUI 10/11 (port) - unofficial assembly MIUI Android-based 7.0/9.0. They can contain bugs, especially in the camera.

Important: the installation of custom firmware requires unlocking the loader and installing a custom Recovery (TWRP). This will void the warranty (if it was still valid) and may result in the inability to use banking applications (due to lack of Google certification).

Update via Fastboot (for power users)

If you do not want to install custom firmware, but need a clean system, you can sew the official global firmware. MIUI 9 via Fastboot, which will bring the phone back to factory status, but it won't give you a new version of Android:

1. Download the firmware for Mi 4 (codename cancro) from the site MIUI Download;
2. Unpack the archive and connect the phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (clip Volume Down). + Nutrition);
3. Run the script. flash_all.bat (Windows) or use the fastboot flash all command in the terminal.

Compatibility table: Which Android versions run on Xiaomi Mi 4?

Below is a summary table with information about supported versions of Android for Xiaomi Mi 4, their stability and key features.The data is based on user feedback and community tests.

The table shows that the most balanced version is LineageOS 14.1 (Android 7.1), which offers acceptable stability and support for modern applications without sacrificing performance. Versions above Android 8.0 are very limited and only suitable for experimentation.

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For everyday use, it’s recommended to opt for Android 7.1 (LineageOS 14.1) – the best balance between compatibility and stability.

Step-by-step: how to install custom firmware on Xiaomi Mi 4

If you decide to upgrade the Mi 4 to a newer version of Android, follow this instruction. CARE: all actions you perform at your own risk! Incorrect firmware can lead to a "brick" (inoperability) of the device.

To install custom firmware will need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/Linux;
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original;li>
• 📱 Charging the phone at least 70%;
• 🔧 Programming: Mi Unlock Tool, TWRP Recovery, ADB/Fastboot.

Step 1: Unlock the bootloader

1. download Mi Unlock Tool from the official Xiaomi website;

2. Turn on the phone Debugging on USB (Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Press 7 times, then return to Additional → For developers);

3. Link your Mi Account in settings (Settings) → Mi Account);

4. Connect your phone to your PC, launch the Mi Unlock Tool and follow the instructions.The wait for unlocking can take up to 30 days!

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If the Mi Unlock Tool gives you a "Couldn't unlock" error, try using the older version of the program (2018) - it often works more stable.

Step 2: Installation of TWRP Recovery

1. Download the latest version TWRP Xiaomi Mi 4 (cancro) from twrp.me;

2. Rename the file to recovery.img And put it in a folder with ADB/Fastboot;

3. Connect your phone in Fastboot mode and execute the command:

fastboot flash recovery recovery.img


fastboot boot recovery.img

Step 3: Custom firmware ROM

1. Download firmware (e.g. LineageOS 14.1) and GAPPS (Google service package, select for your version of Android);

2. Transfer files to the phone;

3. Go in. TWRP (Hold the volume up + Food, make a Wipe. → Advanced Wipe (tag Dalvik, Cache, System, Data);

4. Install firmware, then GAPPS, and reboot.

Problems after the update: what breaks and how to fix it

Installing custom firmware on Xiaomi Mi 4 rarely goes without surprises, and here are the most common problems and ways to solve them:

1.The camera is not working.

In firmware based on Android 7.0+ The main or front camera often breaks, due to the lack of drivers for new software:

• 📸 Install an alternative camera app (like Open Camera or GCam with a patch for the Mi 4);
• 🔧 Try flashing the camera-enabled kernel (look for the XDA-Developers forum);
• 🔄 Return to firmware with Android 6.0 – the camera is stable there.

2. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth problems

If Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is missing after the update, the kernel or drivers will likely crash.

• 🔄 Firmware reflashing with full wipe;
• 📶 Install a patch for Wi-Fi (for example, wcnss_qcom_cfg.ini into /system/etc/wifi);
• 🔧 Replacement of Wi-Fi module (if hardware problem).

3. Fast battery discharge

Castom firmware often uses more energy to extend the operating time:

• ⚡ Turn off unnecessary background processes in settings;
• 🔋 Install a power optimisation kernel (e.g. FrancoKernel);
• 📵 Use energy saving modes (LineageOS has built-in profiles).

4.The banking applications are not working

Banks are blocking access on devices with or without Google's unlocked bootloader.

• 🏦 Install Magisk and MagiskHide Module to Disguise Root Rights;
• 🔐 Firmware with Google Services certified (e.g. Pixel Experience);
• 📱 Use web versions of banks or a secondary phone for financial transactions.

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If the banking application still does not work, try changing the device fingerprint (fingerprint) through Magisk. 4PDA Magisk-themed.

Should Xiaomi Mi 4 be updated in 2026?

Before you waste your time on firmware, assess whether the effort is warranted.The Xiaomi Mi 4 is a 10-year-old device with Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 and 3 GB RAM – Even with the most optimized firmware, it won’t be able to compete with today’s smartphones. Consider the pros and cons»:

Pros of the update:

• ✅ Support for new applications (for example, Telegram, WhatsApp, YouTube);
• ✅ Improved security (up-to-date patches for Android 7.1)+);
• ✅ Modern interface and navigation gestures;
• ✅ The ability to use current versions of Chrome and Google Maps.

Cons of the update:

• ❌ Slowdowns in games and heavy applications;
• ❌ Problems with camera, Wi-Fi or sensors;
• ❌ Lack of official support (bugs will have to be fixed on their own);
• ❌ Risk of “bricking” the device in case of firmware error;
• ❌ Some applications (such as banking) may not work.

If your goal is simply to extend the life of your phone for calls, instant messengers, and easy tasks, upgrading to Android 7.1 makes sense. AR-Apps, it is better to consider buying a new device.

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Xiaomi Mi 4 in 2026 is a device for enthusiasts, not for everyday use.If you want stability, stay on the official MIUI 9 (Android 6.0).

Alternatives to the update: how to use Xiaomi Mi 4 without firmware

If the upgrade process seems too complicated or risky, there are ways to make the Mi 4 more user-friendly without changing the firmware:

1. Installation of lightweight alternative launchers

Replace the standard launcher MIUI More modern and optimized:

• 🏠 Nova Launcher – fast and customizable;
• 🌐 Lawnchair – Launcher in the style of Google Pixel;
• ⚡ Smart Launcher – Minimalist interface with smart search.

2. Use of lightweight versions of applications

Many popular services have “light” versions that work faster on weak hardware:

• 📱 Facebook Lite, Messenger Lite;
• 💬 Twitter Lite (via Twitter Lite) PWA Chrome);
• 🎵 YouTube Go or NewPipe (for viewing ads-free videos).

3. System optimization

A few tips to speed up work:

• 🧹 Turn off animations in Settings → For developers (set the scale of animation on the 0.5x Or shut it down completely);
• 🚫 Remove unnecessary system applications through ADB (For example, pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.weather);
• 🔄 Clean the cache regularly in Settings → Memory. → Clear the cache.

4. Reprofiling of the device

If the smartphone is no longer able to cope with the role of the main gadget, it can be used as:

• 📷 Camera (with Open Camera and external battery);
• 🎮 Game console (emulators) SNES, GBA, PS1 via RetroArch);
• 📺 Media player (connect to the TV through the OTG-cable);
• 🏠 Smart remote (with Yatse app for control) TV-boxing).

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To emulate old Mi games 4 perfect PPSSPP (PSP) ordolphin MMJ (GameCube/Wii) In light settings, remember to cool the device during long sessions!

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi 4 Android