Xiaomi Mi 8: the year of release, specifications and why it is still relevant

Xiaomi Mi 8 became one of the most talked-about flagships of the brand in 2018, the year of its official release. This model not only cemented Xiaomi’s position in the premium market, but also brought a number of innovations that later became the standard for the entire lineup. Today, 6 years after its release, the Mi 8 continues to interest users: some are looking for a budget option with top-end features, others – spare parts or customization opportunities.

In this article, we will analyze not only the year of release of the Xiaomi Mi 8, but also its key features, compare with the modifications (Mi 8). SE, Mi 8 Pro, Mi 8 Explorer Edition, and whether to buy this smartphone in 2026, we will pay special attention to the “pitfalls” faced by owners of outdated flagships – from firmware support to compatibility with modern applications.

If you are planning to purchase the Mi 8 b/d or just interested in the history of Xiaomi smartphones, here you will find answers to all questions – from technical specifications to tips for extending the life of the device.

Xiaomi Mi 8: Official Release Year and Historical Context

Xiaomi Mi 8 was announced on May 31, 2018 at a special event in Shenzhen, China, dedicated to the 8th anniversary of the company. It was the first flagship of the brand, received the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor — at that time the most productive chipset for Android smartphones. The release of the model coincided with the peak of popularity of “bangs” (cutouts in the screen), and the Mi 8 was one of the first Xiaomi devices with this design.

Interesting fact: the name "Mi 8" was timed to the anniversary of the company, but also referred to the 8 cores of the processor and 8 GB of RAM in the top version. S9 iPhone X, offering similar specs at a much lower price.

Sales are off. 5 June 2018 It was in China, and the global release came a little bit later, in July. ~2699 yuan (nearly) 28 000 RUB at the exchange rate of that time) for the basic version of the 6/64 GB. For comparison, the iPhone X in 2018 year was worth from Russia 70 000 ruble.

In the same year, Xiaomi released three modifications of the model:

• 📱 Mi 8 Standard - basic version with AMOLED-screen-case.
• 💎 Mi 8 Explorer Edition – premium version with transparent rear panel (like the Mi 8 Pro), fingerprint scanner under the screen and a unique 3D-The face unlocker (analogue of Face) ID Apple).
• 📏 Mi 8 SE — compact version with Snapdragon 710 chipset and screen diagonal of 5.88 inches.
• 🔋 Mi 8 Pro (for the Chinese market) - version with a larger battery (3400 mAh vs 3300 mAh in the standard version).

All modifications worked on MIUI 9 (based on Android 8.1 Oreo), but later received updates to the MIUI 12.5 and Android 10.

Xiaomi Mi 8 specifications: what has changed in 6 years?

At the time of its release, the Mi 8 was one of the most balanced flagships in terms of price/performance ratio, so let’s look at its key parameters and see how relevant they are today.

On paper, the difference is huge, but in practice, the Mi 8 is still able to cope with most everyday tasks.

• 🎮 Games: Launches Genshin Impact on low settings (~30 FPS), PUBG Mobile - on average (~40 FPS).
• 📸 Dual camera with optical zoom gives the result better than many public sector workers in 2026.
• 🔄 Multitasking: 6–8 GB of RAM is enough for 10–15 background applications (when optimised) MIUI).

The main bottlenecks today:

⚠️ Note: The smartphone does not support 5G (maximum — LTE Cat.16, Also no slot for microSD - memory expansion is impossible.

3. Mi 8 vs Mi 8 SE Mi 8 Pro: What's the difference?

Many people confuse the Mi 8, especially the ones with the SE-It's a version that looks like a flagship, but it's built on a different hardware:

Xiaomi Mi 8 SE (junior):

• 📏 Screen size: 5.88" (vs 6.21" for the standard version).
• 🔧 Processor: Snapdragon 710 (vs 845) – 30-40% weaker in games.
• 📷 Camera: single module 12 MP (no telephoto).
• 🔋 Battery: 3120 mAh (vs 3300 mAh).

This device is aimed at those who need a compact smartphone with a flagship design, but without top-end performance.

Xiaomi Mi 8 Explorer Edition (premium version):

• 👁️ Face scans: 3D-Structured light (like the iPhone X) works even in the dark.
• 🔓 Fingerprint scanner: under the screen (in the standard version - on the back panel).
• 🖼️ Design: transparent back panel with illumination of internal components.

This version was a limited edition and is now a rarity among collectors.

Xiaomi Mi 8 Pro (Chinese version):

• 🔋 Battery: 3400 mAh (100 mAh more than the standard version).
• 📡 Support: additional LTE-ranges for Chinese operators.

In fact, it’s the same Mi 8, but with a slightly larger battery and a different set of frequencies.

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If you want maximum performance margin, choose the standard version of the Mi 8 or Explorer Edition. SE It is only suitable for basic tasks.

4.The relevance of Xiaomi Mi 8 in 2026: pros and cons

6 years after the release of the Mi 8 remains in demand in the secondary market, let’s consider what makes it attractive today – and what problems will face buyers.

Pros:

• 💰 Price: on the secondary market - from 8 000 to 15 000 rubles (depending on the state of the market).
• 🔧 Repairability: parts (screen, battery, camera) are cheap and widely available.
• 🎯 Camera: dual module with optical zoom is still better than many public sector.
• 🔄 MIUI: Support for custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience).

Cons:

• 🚫 No updates: The latest official firmware — MIUI 12.5 based on Android 10.Security is vulnerable.
• 📶 Network: absent 5G and modern Wi-Fi standards 6/6E.
• 🔋 Battery: the original 3300 mAh battery after 6 years of operation loses up to 30-40% of capacity.
• 🎮 New titles (Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile) are working on minimum settings.

Who will be the Mi 8 in 2026?

⚠️ Note: The smartphone should only be considered as a second device, a device for experimenting with firmware or a budget option for calls / social networks. For main use in 2026, it is not suitable due to outdated software and hardware limitations.

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If you are buying a Mi 8 b/d, be sure to check the battery status through the AccuBattery application or code ##4636# # (menu "Battery Information"). Capacity below 2500 mAh - a reason to bargain!

5.How to Check the Originality of Xiaomi Mi 8 and Avoid Counterfeiting

In the secondary market, there are often “gray” devices, cross-stitched under the global version, or even fakes (especially the Mi 8). SE). Here's how to distinguish the original:

Step 1. Verification IMEI

• Dial *#06# - should display 15-digit IMEI.
• Check it on the IMEI.info website – the model must match the Xiaomi Mi 8 (model code: M1803E1A global version).

Step 2: Visual signs

• 🔍 Logo: the original inscription "Mi" is made of metallized paint, does not erase.
• 📦 Box: Must have a Xiaomi hologram and a serial number matching the sticker on the phone.
• 🔋 Charging: the original power supply - white, with output 9V/2A or 18W.

Step 3: Programmatic verification

• Go to Settings. → The phone:
• Install the app AIDA64 and check the System section → CIQ Info – Must be authentic=1.

If one item doesn't match, you're either a gray machine (brought unofficially) or a fake, and the first one has issues with warranty and upgrades, the second one with performance and security.

6. Updates and firmware: can I install Android 13 on the Mi 8?

Official support for Xiaomi Mi 8 ended in 2021: the last stable firmware — MIUI 12.5 is based on Android 10. However, enthusiasts continue to produce custom builds:

Official firmware (no longer updated):

• 📱 MIUI 12.5 (Android 10) – the latest stable version from Xiaomi.
• 🔄 MIUI 13 (beta) – released for Chinese devices, but with bugs.

Custom firmware (unofficial):

⚠️ Important: Custom firmware requires bootloader unlocking, which resets the phone to factory settings, and there is a risk of bricking if you interrupt the process.

If you are not willing to take risks, the alternative is to use them. MIUI 12.5 with security patches from third-party developers (e.g., via Xiaomi.eu).

7. Repair and replacement of components: how much does it cost in 2026?

One of the advantages of the Mi 8 is the low cost of repair due to the prevalence of spare parts.

Average cost of repairs in service centers:

• 🔧 Screen replacement: 5 000 – 7 000 rubles (with work).
• 🔋 Battery replacement: 1,500 – 2,500 rubles.
• 📷 Repair of the camera: 3 000 – 5 000 rubles (including diagnostics).

⚠️ Warning: Replacing the screen with a non-original screen may cause problems with autobrightness and color reproduction. Original parts are more expensive, but ensure that the sensors work correctly.

If you are planning to repair the Mi 8 yourself, you will need to:

• 🛠️ Set of screwdrivers (Torx) T3, T4, Phillips 00).
• 🧲 Screen suction cup.
• 🔥 Hair dryer or glue heating station.

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Before disassembling the phone, be sure to remove SIM-Card and memory card (if any) It is also recommended to discharge the battery to 20-30%, which will reduce the risk of fire in case of accidental circuit.

8. Xiaomi Mi 8 Alternatives in 2026: Which to Choose Instead?

If the Mi 8 seems outdated but budget is limited, consider modern alternatives with similar features:

If you need a smartphone, you need a smartphone. AMOLED-with a small screen and a small size, pay attention to:

• 📱 Xiaomi 13 Mini (5.88, Snapdragon 7 Gen 1) – modern analogue of the Mi 8 SE.
• 📱 Asus Zenfone 10 (5.92, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2) – flagship in a compact body.

The main advantage of the new models is long-term support for updates (3-4 years vs 2 years for the Mi 8) and modern communication standards (5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2+).

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi 8