Buying a new gadget from the Chinese giant is always a holiday, but for Android users it is often overshadowed by the need for initial configuration. Unlike more closed ecosystems, the MIUI shell or its new HyperOS counterpart requires attention to detail immediately after being removed from the box. Ignoring the basic steps can lead to the device being inefficient, quickly discharged or even contain ad units that can be easily turned off.
The first few minutes of use are critical times when the foundation of system stability is being laid. Many users make the mistake of starting active use without checking for updates or setting access rights. This guide will help you avoid typical pitfalls and make the most of your new smartphone.
We're going to go through all the steps, from physical integrity testing to deep software optimization, you don't have to be an IT expert to get it right, you just have to follow the consistent instructions, and it takes about 30-40 minutes to get it right, but it saves you hours of nerves in the future.
Initial inspection and physical inspection of the device
Before you press the power button, you need to conduct a thorough visual inspection. Despite the high quality control Xiaomi, the human factor in the assembly or logistics, no one canceled. Carefully examine the screen when the display is off at different angles of lighting to identify possible defects in the matrix or scratches.
Pay special attention to ports and connectors. USB-C There should be no dust or pile, and the connector should sit tightly, without backlashes. SIM-maps: it should be easily removed, and when installed - snap with a characteristic click-sound.
- 🔍 Check the presence of the protective film on the screen and its sticker quality.
- 🔌 Make sure the original charger is included (check the weight and quality of the plastic).
- 📦 Convert. IMEI-code on the box with the code that appears when you first turn on (click *#06#).
- 🔊 Listen to the speaker: there should be no wheezing or rattling at maximum volume.
⚠️ Warning: If the screen is turned off and you see yellow spots or uneven lighting around the edges (lights), this may be a sign of matrix failure.
Don't ignore checking the control buttons. Mechanical volume and power buttons should be clear and not fail, and pressing them should be tactile, not feel like "porridge."
Activation, account login and authentication
Once the device is turned on, the system will suggest selecting a language and connecting to Wi-Fi. At this stage, it is critical to log into your Mi Account, which is not just a formality, but a necessity for cloud services, finding a device in case of theft and synchronization of data.
At the same time, Google is linked to a Google account, which is smoother in new firmware versions, but requires a stable Internet connection, and if you buy a device imported through parallel imports (Global ROM, but not for your region), notifications may be difficult to notify.
You can use the official service to verify the authenticity of the device. IMEI-Also note the activation date: if it is significantly different from the date of your purchase, it may have been in use or activated previously.
It is important to set up biometric protection immediately. The fingerprint scanner in Xiaomi works quickly, but to improve accuracy, it is recommended to add the same finger twice as different fingerprints, which will improve recognition in difficult conditions.
System update and security
Once activated, the system will prompt an update, the most important step not to be missed, and factory versions of software often contain security vulnerabilities and bugs patched in more recent releases, which can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.
The update is done via the Settings menu → About Phone → MIUI version. If the automatic update hasn’t arrived, you can check it manually by clicking on three dots in the corner of the screen and selecting “Check Updates”.
☑️ Checklist for system updates
During the upgrade process, the device can reboot several times. The screen can go out and light up - this is normal behavior. Interrupting the process at this stage can lead to the device "bricking", so make sure that the battery is charged.
| Type of update | Size | Time of installation | Risk of data loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (OTA) | 2-4 GB | 15-20 minutes | No. |
| Full firmware. | 5-6 GB | 30-40 minutes. | No. |
| Beta version | 4-5GB | 20-30 minutes | Medium. |
⚠️ Warning: Never turn off your smartphone or disconnect it from charging while installing system updates.This can damage the system partition and require you to contact a service center.
Optimizing the MIUI interface and removing advertising
MIUI is famous for its functionality, but also for the presence of built-in advertising in system applications, and to make the experience comfortable, you need to disable personalized recommendations and advertising identifiers.
Go to the settings and find the Passwords and Security section, where you have to turn off the Receive Recommendations (MSA) option, and this action needs confirmation, and the system will ask you repeatedly, persist.
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To completely remove advertising in system applications (Conductor, Music, Video) go to the settings of each of them separately and find the "Receive recommendations" switch.
You can also set up the interface. From the Settings menu → Desktop, you can choose the classic mode (like in the iPhone) or the mode with the application menu (like in pure Android). For new users, the second option is often more convenient.
Don't forget to set up Quick Apps, which is a feature that lets you run lighter versions of apps without installing them, and if you don't use them, you'd better turn them off in the security settings so they don't waste resources in the background.
Battery setting and energy saving mode
Modern Xiaomi smartphones have powerful processors, but aggressive battery optimization sometimes interferes with the normal operation of messengers. By default, the system can "kill" background processes, which is why notifications come with a delay.
To avoid this, go to Settings → Battery → Energy Saving Applications. Find the apps that matter to you (WhatsApp, Telegram, Mail) and set “No Limits” mode.
- 🔋 Turn on the option of “Optimize charging at night” if you leave your phone on charging until morning.
- ⚡ Use the original cable to activate fast charging (the indicator will appear on the lock screen).
- 📉 Turn off keyboard vibration and systems to save energy.
- 🌡 Watch the temperature: Avoid using heavy games while charging.
Newer versions of HyperOS have an improved battery algorithm that learns how to use your battery, so give the system a week to adapt without resetting usage statistics.
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Properly adjusting the background activity of applications is the key to timely notifications and long battery life throughout the day.
Backup and migration of data
Transferring data from an old device is a process that is best done immediately while the phone is new and has no excess debris. Xiaomi offers a built-in “Mi Mover” app that works faster and more stable than third-party counterparts.
You can use Wi-Fi Direct or cable to transfer data, and the cable method is preferable if you need to transfer more than 100 GB of data (photos, videos, application archives), and the wireless method is convenient for quick migration of contacts and settings.
Be sure to set up sync with Google Photos or Mi Cloud. This ensures that in the event of loss or breakage of the device, your personal photos will remain intact. In the settings of your Google account, make sure that the box is opposite to "Photos and Videos".