How old is Xiaomi Redmi Note 4: the history of the model, relevance in 2026 and the secrets of longevity

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is a legendary smartphone that was once a bestseller due to its combination of performance, autonomy and affordable price. But how old is this model really? If you ask this question, you are probably considering buying a used device or just wondering about the history of the brand. In this article, we will not only answer the question about the age of the Redmi Note 4, but also analyze how relevant it is in 2026, compare with modern public sector and reveal the secrets of how to prolong the life of this “centenarian” from Xiaomi.

Let’s get straight to the dates: the official announcement of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 took place in August 2016, and global sales began in January 2017. This means that at the time of writing (2026), the smartphone is already 7-8 years old, even for technology. However, do not rush to write off the model from the accounts: with proper care, it is still able to perform basic tasks. Next, we will discuss in detail what the Redmi Note 4 was at the time of release, how it ages with time and what to do if you still decide to buy it.

When did the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 come out?

To accurately determine the age of the smartphone, we turn to the official Xiaomi chronology:

• 📅 August 2016 – presentation of the model in China (version with a processor MediaTek Helio) X20).
• 🌍 January 2017 – the beginning of global sales (version with Qualcomm Snapdragon 625, which became the most popular version of the game).
• 🛒 2017-2018 – peak sales, the model occupied top positions in the rating of budget smartphones.
• ⏳ 2019 – Officially Ending Support for Updates MIUI (last — MIUI 11 based on Android 7 Nougat).

Interesting fact: in different regions, the Redmi Note 4 was sold under different names, for example, in India, the model was called the Redmi Note. 4X, In China, it's just a Redmi Note 4 (without the X set-top box), which often causes confusion when determining the exact age of the device. To make sure you don't make a mistake, check the serial number or firmware version in the settings (Settings). → The phone).

If you have a Redmi Note 4 was bought in 2017 yearly 2026 he's fulfilled 7 But the real age depends on the intensity of use: one smartphone could stand on the shelf for years, and another could work. 24/7 We'll talk about it in a taxi.

Technical specifications: what made Redmi Note 4 a hit in 2017?

Redmi Note 4 was once considered a revolutionary budgetary player because of its price-quality balance, and let's remember what chips made it so popular:

Against the backdrop of 2017 competitors (Samsung Galaxy) J7 Prime, Huawei P9 Lite) Redmi Note 4 stood out:

• 🔋 Record autonomy – 4100 mAh against the standard 3000-3500 mAh competitors.
• 📱 Metal body (while many state employees were plastic).
• 🎯 13 MP camera with phase autofocus is a rarity for the price tag ~15,000 rubles.
• 🔄 Supporting two SIM-map + microSD (hybrid slot).

However, after 2-3 years after the release, key shortcomings that make the model obsolete became noticeable today:

• 🐢 Outdated Android version – the latest official firmware based on Android 7 Nougat (2016!).
• 📉 Lack of support for modern standards: no 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0+.
• 🔒 Security issues are outdated MIUI It does not receive security patches, which makes the smartphone vulnerable to viruses.

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If you want the best performance from Redmi Note 4, install custom firmware based on Android 10–11 (like LineageOS) to give you access to new features and improve security.

How long will the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 last in 2026?

The life of a smartphone depends on three key factors: hardware reliability, software support, and usage intensity, and we will examine each of them in relation to the Redmi Note 4.

1. Hardware reliability: what breaks most often?

According to service centers, typical "diseases" Redmi Note 4 after 5+ service:

• 🔋 Battery degradation – capacity drops to 60-70% of the original, the phone discharges in 3-4 hours.
• 📱 Touchscreen plume detachment is a common problem due to thin screen.
• 🔊 Dust/dirty in the speaker and microphone – the sound worsens when talking.
• 🌡️ Overheating of the processor – Snapdragon 625 warms up when loaded (games, video).

The Redmi Note 4’s body and screen are among the most resilient in their class, with the metal back cover not breaking from falls (unlike glass-based smartphones), and the display protected. 2.5D-glass that is harder to break.

2.Program support: can it be updated?

Official updates for Redmi Note 4 stopped in 2019 MIUI 11 (Android 7). That means that:

• ❌ New versions of WhatsApp, Telegram and banking apps may not support legacy OS.
• ❌ No security patches – risk of viruses and data leaks.
• ❌ Modern games (Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile) will not run or will slow down.

There's a solution, custom firmware, and enthusiasts have ported Android 10 and Android 11 (like LineageOS 18.1) to Redmi Note 4.

• ✅ Support for modern applications.
• ✅ Security patches (although not official).
• ✅ Improved productivity through optimization.

Intensity of use: what can be done in 2026?

The most important tasks that Redmi Note 4 can do are:

• 📞 Calls, SMS, Messengers (Telegram, Viber).
• 🌐 Surf the Internet (but no more than 5-7 tabs in Chrome).
• 📷 Photo on the main camera (13 MP is enough for social networks).
• 🎵 Music and video (YouTube in resolution) 720p).

What will stop or not work:

• 🎮 Modern games (PUBG Mobile only with minimal settings).
• 📸 Video processing in 4K or multitasking (such as streaming) + messenger).
• 🔒 Banking apps (many require Android 8)+).

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The Redmi Note 4 in 2026 is only suitable for basic tasks: calls, social networks, photos. For games, streaming or working with heavy applications, it is better to consider models from 2020 and later.

Comparison with modern state-owned: is it worth buying a used Redmi Note 4?

In 2026, the new Redmi Note 4 is no longer available for purchase, only used versions at a price of 3,000-7000 rubles (depending on the condition).

The conclusion: buying the Redmi Note 4 in 2026 makes sense only in three cases:

1. Nostalgia or collection – the model has become a cult among Xiaomi fans.

In all other cases, it is better to pay extra and take a new Redmi. A2+ POCO C55 — They are not only more modern, but also safer (updates support, security patches).

🔋 Battery condition (capacity must be at least 3000 mAh)

📱 Touchscreen performance (no dead zones")

🔊 Clean speaker and microphone

📷 Quality of photo on the main camera (no artifacts)

🔄 No autopsy marks (whether the phone was not cleared)

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How to extend the life of Xiaomi Redmi Note 4: tips from service centers

If you already own the Redmi Note 4 or plan to buy it, these tips will help to delay the death of the device as much as possible:

1. Software optimization

• 🧹 Remove unnecessary apps – especially system apps (Mi Video, Mi Music) that can’t be disabled.
• 🔄 Turn off animation in the developer settings (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI — tap 7 times).
• 🔋 Use "Easy Mode" (Settings) → Additionally. → Easy regime).
• 🛡️ Install an alternative launcher (like Nova Launcher) to unload MIUI.

2. Battery care

The Lithium Polymer batteries in Redmi Note 4 lose up to 20% of their capacity per year when used actively.

• 🔌 Don’t keep your phone charging more than 80% (use apps like AccuBattery).
• 🌡️ Avoid overheating (do not play while charging).
• 🔋 Calibrate the battery once every 3 months: discharge to 0%, then charge to 100% without interruptions.

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If the battery is swelling (the body is "smoking"), replace it immediately! This is dangerous to health (risk of fire).

3. Hardware services

Every 6-12 months it is recommended to:

• 🧴 Cleaning connectors (charges, headphones) from dust with an alcohol napkin.
• 🔧 Replace thermopaste (if the phone is too hot).
• 🛠️ Checking plumes (especially touchscreen and cameras).

The cost of replacing the battery in the service center: 1,500-2,500 rubles. Replacing the screen will cost 3,000-5000 rubles - it is often cheaper to buy another used smartphone.

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The most common reason Redmi Note 4 breaks is when it drops on the screen. Use a screen-protected case, even if the phone is idle!

Frequent questions about Xiaomi Redmi Note 4

Redmi Note 4 Alternatives in 2026: What to Buy Instead

If the Redmi Note 4 doesn’t suit you, consider these models from Xiaomi’s current range:

If you need a phone cheaper than 5 000 rubles, in addition to the Redmi Note 4, you can consider:

• 📱 Redmi 9A (b/y) - newer but weaker in performance.
• 📱 Samsung Galaxy A10 (B/y) – better camera, but worse autonomy.
• 📱 Nokia 5.3 (used) - reliability, but outdated processor.

When choosing a used smartphone, always check:

⚠️ Note: If the seller refuses to show the phone on camera (for example, in a video chat) or check through *#06# (IMEI), Most likely, the device is in a malfunction or stolen.

Conclusion: a living legend or a museum exhibit?

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is a smartphone that deservedly went down in history as one of the best budget players of its time. In 2026, it can no longer compete with new models in performance or support, but remains a reliable "workhorse" for basic tasks. If you need a phone for calls, messengers and easy surfing — Redmi Note 4 for 3-5 thousand rubles is quite suitable. In all other cases, it is better to pay and take a new model with support for modern standards.

The main advantages of Redmi Note 4 in 2026:

• ✅ Cheap 3,000-7,000 ₽ b).
• ✅ Reliable case and screen.
• ✅ Long battery (when replacing the battery).

The main disadvantages:

• ❌ Outdated OS (Android 7).
• ❌ No support for modern apps and games.
• ❌ Risk of breakdown due to age (plate, battery).

If you do decide to buy a Redmi Note 4, follow our tips on optimization and care and it will last for a couple of years. A2+ POCO C55.