How to Check Out the Original Xiaomi or Fake: The Complete 2026 Guide

You can buy a smartphone, smartwatch or Xiaomi headphones today not only in official stores, but also on marketplaces, social networks or from hand. However, as the brand’s popularity grows, the number of fakes is also growing, from low-quality copies to relabeled devices from other manufacturers. According to RBC, in 2023, the share of counterfeit Xiaomi equipment in the Russian market reached 12%, and in some categories (for example, fitness bracelets) – up to 30%.

This article will help you understand how to verify Xiaomi’s originality before you buy or after you receive a product. We have collected all the relevant methods from checking IMEI and serial number to analyzing firmware and packaging. We have focused on new methods of fraudsters in 2026, including fakes with cloned IMEIs and devices that pretend to be original through modified software. If you are planning to buy or already suspect a scam, follow our instructions Step-by-step.

1.IMEI Verification: The main identifier of the original Xiaomi

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code that is assigned to each mobile device. At Xiaomi, it is written in the firmware, on the box and under the battery (if removable). Fraudsters often forge IMEIs, but there are ways to identify inconsistencies.

To check the IMEI for originality:

• 📱 Enter the code *#06# on the phone keyboard and it will appear on the screen. IMEI (two IMEI two-device SIM-map).
• 📦 Compare it to the code on the box sticker (usually under the barcode).
• 🔍 Check it out. IMEI The original device must display the Xiaomi model, the date of production and the status of "Valid».

⚠️ Attention: If IMEI The box and the phone don't match, or the service shows a model of another brand (for example, Redmi instead of Poco), you have 100% fake. IMEI Starts with 000000 or contains repeating numbers – this is a sign of software substitution.

💡

If the seller refuses to show the IMEI before the purchase, or claims that "IMEI is not yet registered" is a clear sign of fraud, the original devices receive the IMEI at the manufacturing stage.

2. Serial number and verification through official Xiaomi services

Besides IMEI, every Xiaomi device has a serial number (S/N) that can also be checked. It is listed on the box (near IMEI) and in the phone settings: Settings → About Phone → General Information → Serial Number.

To verify the originality:

1. Go to the Xiaomi authentication page.
2. Enter the serial number and the captcha.
3. If the device is original, the system will show the model, activation date and warranty status.

⚠️ Warning: Scammers have learned to fake Xiaomi's verification pages.Always make sure the site address starts with https://order.mi.com or https://mi.com. Fake sites often use domains like Xiaomi-verify.ru or mi-check.online.

Visual inspection of the package: 7 signs of forgery

The packaging of the original Xiaomi has many security elements that are difficult to fake.

• 📦 Box quality: the original is a dense cardboard with a clear print, no barbs. Counterfeiting is often made of thin material with blurry fonts.
• 🔖 Sticker with IMEI: on the original it is glossy, with microtext (check under magnification - there should be a Xiaomi logo and serial number).
• 🎨 Colors and fonts: the Mi or Redmi logo on the box should be clear, without shifting the paint").
• 🔐 Security tape: original devices are always sealed in factory tape with the brand logo, and if it's not there or it's torn, it's a reason to be wary.

✅ Example of the original Xiaomi 13 box:

❌ Example of a fake Redmi Note 12 box:

4. Verification of firmware and system applications

One of the most reliable ways to detect a fake is through firmware analysis: Xiaomi’s original devices run on MIUI (for smartphones) or HyperOS (new 2026 models), and cloned devices often use modified or pirated versions of Android.

How to check:

1. Go to Settings. → The phone.
2. View MIUI/HyperOS. The original should be in a format similar to MIUI Global 14.0.5 or HyperOS 1.0.12.0.
3. Check for system applications: Mi Home, Mi Community, Security (with shield icons) that are often not on the forgeries or have been replaced with analogues.
4. Run ##4636###, and the original devices will open a testing menu, and a bug or blank screen may appear on the fakes.

⚠️ Note: Some counterfeits are set to "shell" MIUI It's on top of regular Android. To find out, check it out:

• 🔍 The presence of applications that are not typical for Xiaomi (for example, Google Play Services with Chinese characters).
• 📱 No proprietary features: Game Turbo, Second Space, Mi Share.
• 🔄 Inability to update firmware through Settings → System update (fakes often give server error).

Hardware inspection: camera, speakers, sensors

Counterfeiting is often a bit less expensive than hardware.

• 📸 Camera: take a photo at maximum resolution and zoom in. The original Xiaomi retains details even at zoom, and fakes give a soapy effect. Also check for all the declared modules (for example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra should have 4 cameras).
• 🔊 Speakers: original devices have stereo sound (two speakers); hold your phone to your ear while playing music; sound must come from both sides; counterfeits often have one speaker deaf".
• 📡 Sensors: Check the work NFC, IR port (if any in the model), gyroscope (in games or through the Sensor Test app) counterfeits often mimic the presence of sensors software, but they don't work.
• 🔋 Charging: The original Xiaomi supports fast charging (e.g., fast charging, 67W or 120W). Connect the original power supply and check the charging speed through the AccuBattery app.

💡 Useful advice: Download the application AIDA64 or CPU-Z And compare the specifications to the official model data on Xiaomi's website, and discrepancies in the processor, RAM or screen are a sure sign of forgery.

6. Verification of Mi Account and service centers

Xiaomi’s original devices are tied to a Mi Account that gives you access to cloud services and warranty services, and if a seller claims that the device is “new but without an account,” it’s suspicious.

How to check:

1. Register or sign in to your Mi Account on your device.
2. Go to Settings → Mi Account → Mi Cloud and check if the device appears in the list.
3. Try activating Find Device. It doesn't work on fakes.

If you have already bought a device and doubt its originality, contact the official service center Xiaomi. Experts can check the device database and give an expert opinion. mi.com/global/service.

⚠️ Attention: Some service centers refuse to accept devices without a check or box. If the seller does not provide documents, demand them or refuse to deal. Also be careful with "service centers" in small cities - scammers often open fake workshops.

💡

If the device is not tied to the Mi Account or the service center refuses to service it, it is 100% fake, even if it looks like the original.

7.Price and place of purchase: how not to run into a fake

One of the most obvious signs of counterfeiting is that it is too low, for example, if Xiaomi is a fake. 14 Pro's for sale on 30-40% It's a little bit less than the average market value, and it's a little bit suspicious, like the accessories: the original Mi Band. 8 cannot 1 500 ₽, if the official price — 4 000 ₽.

Where to Buy Xiaomi Safely:

• ✅ Official stores: mi.com, M.Video, Svyaznoy, Citilink (with a guarantee from Xiaomi).
• ⚠️ Marketplaces: Wildberries, Ozon, AliExpress – only at verified sellers with a rating above 4.8 and reviews about the original technique.
• ❌ Social networks and bulletin boards: VKontakte, Telegram, Avito – a high risk of counterfeiting, especially if the seller refuses to show the device live.
• ❌ Unofficial dealers: stores with names like “Xiaomi Shop” or “Mi Store” that do not have brand certifications.

💰 Average prices for the original Xiaomi (2026):

8.What to do if you have purchased a fake?

If you are already a victim of fraud, act quickly:

1. Collect evidence: take a photo of the device, box, check (if any), correspondence with the seller.
2. Go to the place where you bought it: Wildberries/Ozon — Write in support and demand a return on the article 25 ZoZPP ("Misconformity to description"). On Avito - file a complaint against the seller and contact the police (article) 159 The RF Criminal Code is fraud. Telegram/VKontakte – save the screens of correspondence and submit an application to Roskomnadzor.

Check the device for viruses:

Malwarebytes

Dr.Web

Do not use counterfeit payment methods:

⚠️ Note: If you bought a fake abroad (for example, on AliExpress), it will be more difficult to return the money:

• Open the dispute in AliExpress’s personal account and attach evidence.
• If the seller refuses to return the money, contact the support with a request to return the funds to the card.
• The time limit for a dispute is up to 15 days, and if the decision is not in your favor, you can appeal it.

💡

Not only do fake Xiaomi products work poorly, they can be dangerous! In 2023, Rospotrebnadzor discovered increased radiation levels and harmful materials in batteries in counterfeit devices.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi originality verification