Xiaomi Redmi 12: the year of release, the history of the model and how not to confuse with other generations

Xiaomi Redmi 12 is one of the most talked-about budget smartphones of 2023, but its release date is still debated, some argue that it is a 2022 model, others confuse it with the Redmi Note 12 or POCO M6, and some even believe that we are talking about a renamed version for different markets. In this article, we will understand what year the Xiaomi Redmi 12 really is, why there is confusion with dates, and how this affects the choice of smartphone today.

To be clear, the Redmi 12 is a standalone line, not part of the Note or POCO series, and is marketed as a basic smartphone with a focus on the big screen, long battery life and modern design, but to understand whether to buy this model in 2026, you need to understand not only the year of release, but also what updates it received during its existence, and how it compares with competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A14 or the Realme Narzo 60.

Xiaomi Redmi 12: What the manufacturer says

According to Xiaomi’s official website and press releases, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 was released on June 15, 2023, a date that is considered the model’s starting point, but there are a few nuances:

• 📅 In some regions (for example, in India) the smartphone went on sale a little later – in July 2023, which creates the illusion of a “later” release.
• 🔄 The model was the successor to the Redmi 11 (2022), but not all users know that the number in the name now denotes a year, and a generation.
• 🌍 In the Chinese market, other devices were sometimes sold under the same name (e.g., renamed versions). POCO M5), smack-up.

Important: if you see offers to buy a Redmi 12 marked "2022," chances are it's either a seller's mistake or an attempt to sell an older model (Redmi 11 or Redmi 10) under a new name.The original Redmi 12 is exclusively 2023.

How to distinguish the Redmi 12 from other models: check by year and characteristics

A common problem when buying used smartphones is that sellers pass off old models for new ones. To avoid running into a replacement, check the following points:

The most reliable way to verify the authenticity of the model is to look at it. IMEI-code through the *#06# set and check it against the Xiaomi database. Also note the model name in the settings (Settings) → The phone. → The original Redmi 12 should start with 2304... (the first digits are the year and month of certification).

⚠️ Note: If the seller claims that Redmi 12 — model 2022 Ask him to show you a box or a check, and the original packaging always shows the date of production (month/year in format). MM/YY), And it can't be until June. 2023.

Technical characteristics of Redmi 12: what has changed compared to its predecessors

Although the Redmi 12 is positioned as a budget, compared to the Redmi 11, it has received several key improvements:

• 📱 Screen: 6.79" IPS LCD permittingly 2460×1080 frequency 90 Hz (at Redmi) 11 — 6.5" and 90 Hz, but with the worst color rendering).
• 🔋 Battery: 5000 mAh with fast charging support 18W (against 10W Redmi 10).
• 📷 Camera: 50 MP core module (vs 13 MP for Redmi 10), but without optical stabilization.
• 🔄 Processor: in the basic version - MediaTek Helio G88 (Redmi 11, but there is a version with Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4G) for some markets.

The main innovation is support for MIUI 14 based on Android 13 out of the box (Redmi 11 had Android 12), which means that the smartphone will receive security updates until at least 2026. However, it is important to consider that the version with the Helio G88 does not support 5G, while the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 supports, but only in the sub-6 range.

Confirm IMEI Xiaomi|Check the production date on the box|Make sure the model name is "2304"|View the Android version in the settings-->

Should you buy Redmi 12 in 2026: pros and cons

At the time of writing (2026), the Redmi 12 is no longer a novelty, but it remains a viable choice in the budget segment.

Pros:

• 💰 Price: in new stores, the model can be found for 12,000-15,000 ₽ (which is cheaper than the Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5.
• 🔋 Battery: 5000 mAh lasts 1.5-2 days with moderate use.
• 📺 Screen: large, with high brightness (550 nits) and smooth scrolling.

Cons:

• 🐢 Performance: Helio G88 It is weak for modern games (for example, Genshin Impact is only on minimal settings).
• 📸 Camera: 50 MP sounds impressive, but in practice, photos are of medium quality in low light.
• ⚡ Charging: 18W — This is very slow by 2026 standards (even budget models now offer a new model). 33W).

If you want a smartphone for social media, calls and easy tasks, the Redmi 12 is a good option, but if you plan to play or shoot videos, you’d better take a look at the Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5 Pro (they’re more expensive, but more powerful).

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Before buying, check which version of the processor is installed in the smartphone.The model with the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 runs smoother and supports 5G, but is less common.

Where and how to buy the original Redmi 12: proven ways

In order not to run into a fake or "gray" import, buy a smartphone only in official stores:

• 🛒 Xiaomi official website (mi.com) – guarantee of originality and updates.
• 🏬 Communication salons (MTS, Beeline, MegaFon) - often offer installments.
• 🌍 AliExpress (only from official sellers marked "Xiaomi Official Store").

Avoid hand-held purchases on Avito or Yula if the seller cannot provide:

• Check or warranty card.
• The box with the original marking (it must have a barcode and production date).
• You can check the IMEI before buying.

⚠️ Attention: In 2026, Redmi 12 clones under brands like Umidigi or Doogee appeared on the market, they look similar, but have weak processors and non-original software!

Frequent questions about Xiaomi Redmi 12

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Xiaomi Redmi 12 is a 2023 smartphone that remains relevant in 2026 due to the balance of price and specs, but for games or professional shooting, it is better to consider models more serious, for example, the Redmi Note 12 or POCO X5.