When you hear the name Redmi, the first thing that comes to mind are budget-friendly but powerful smartphones with great value for money. However, not everyone knows that Redmi is not a separate company, but a sub-brand of Xiaomi, which is specially created to capture the market for affordable electronics. Today, Redmi produces not only phones, but also smart watches, headphones, TVs and even laptops, competing with brands such as Samsung, Realme and POCO.
In this article, we will explore who is behind Redmi, how the brand has evolved since 2013, how its devices differ from the main line of Xiaomi, and why millions of users around the world choose them. MIUI Redmi, which makes these gadgets unique against the competition.
Who makes Redmi: the history of the brand and the connection with Xiaomi
Redmi was officially introduced in July 2013 as a sub-brand of Xiaomi, originally positioned as a line of high-end smartphones that were supposed to compete with Samsung and Lenovo devices in China. The first phone, Redmi 1, cost just 799 yuan (about $120 at the time) and offered specs comparable to flagships for twice the price.
Over time, Redmi has ceased to be just a “budget version of Xiaomi.” In 2019, the brand was spun off as a separate division within Xiaomi Corporation to strengthen its independence in the market.
- 📱 Smartphones (Redmi Note, Redmi K, Redmi A series)
- 🖥️ Laptops (RedmiBook)
- 📺 TVs (Redmi Smart) TV)
- 🎧 Headphones and smart watches (Redmi Watch, Redmi Buds)
- 🔌 Accessories (power bank, chargers)
It's important to understand that Redmi and Xiaomi are not competitors, but are part of the same ecosystem. MIUI, And the same goes for Xiaomi devices, but with some limitations (like fewer updates), and Redmi is often the first to get innovations that later migrate to the mainstream, as it was with the Redmi brand. 120W fast-charging AMOLED-screens in the budget segment.
How Redmi is different from Xiaomi: key differences
Many users confuse Redmi and Xiaomi, thinking that they are the same thing, but in fact there are fundamental differences between them that affect the choice of device.
| Criteria | Xiaomi | Redmi |
|---|---|---|
| Target audience | Premium and mid-segment | Budget and medium segment |
| Price range | 300.$ 1500$+ | From $100 to $400. |
| Case materials | Glass, metal, ceramics | Plastic, less glass |
| PO Updates | 3–4 years of MIUI support | 2–3 years (sometimes less) |
| Innovation | The first to receive new technologies | Technology comes later, but cheaper |
But there are commonalities:
- 🔄 Both brands use firmware. MIUI (with slight differences in settings).
- 🛠️ Support is provided through the same Xiaomi centers.
- 🔌 Compatibility of accessories (charges, covers, headphones).
⚠️ Note: If you see a smartphone called Xiaomi Redmi Note 12, it's not a typo. In the past, the model names used the prefix "Xiaomi", but since 2020 the brand has moved to a simplified name (Redmi Note 12.
Popular series of smartphones Redmi: what to choose in 2026
Redmi's smartphone lineup is divided into several series, each focused on specific tasks, and here are the current series for 2026 and their features:
Redmi Note is the best choice for most people
The Note series is the middle ground between price and performance.
- 📸 48-108 MP cameras (with night mode support).
- 🔋 Batteries for 5000-5,020 mAh with fast charging 33W–67W.
- 🖥️ AMOLED- or IPS-screens with a frequency of 90-120 Hz.
Examples of models: Redmi Note 13 Pro+ (the flagship processor Dimensity 7200 Ultra), Redmi Note 12 (budget version with Snapdragon 4 Gen 1).
Redmi K – almost flagships for the price of the average
The K Series (formerly the Redmi K20/30/40/50) offers top-end specs for less money.
- 🚀 Snapdragon processors 8 Gen 1/2 or Dimensity 9000.
- 🎮 144Hz on-screen support (ideal for gamers).
- 🔥 Cooling systems with steam chamber.
Example: Redmi K60 Ultra with Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 and 120W charging.
Redmi A – Superbudget Phones
The A-series is a $100 to $150 device with basic specs.
- 👵 Older People (Simple Interface).
- 📦 Backup phone.
- 🌍 Low-income countries.
Example: Redmi A2+ with a Helio G36 processor and a 5000 mAh battery.
Playing games? → Watch the Redmi K series.|Need a balance of price/quality? → Redmi Note|Limited budget? → Redmi A|Long-term support is important? → Check out the model on the Xiaomi website-->
MIUI firmware on Redmi: pros and cons
All Redmi smartphones are powered by the MIUI branded shell, which is based on Android, and it's one of the most customized firmware on the market, but it has both advantages and disadvantages.
The benefits of MIUI:
- 🎨 Deep interface customization: themes, animations, gestures.
- 🔒 Additional security features: "Second Space", application lock by fingerprint.
- 📱 Optimizing for weak devices: even on budget models MIUI smoothly.
- 🔄 Regular updates (though not as long as Xiaomi flagships).
MIUI's downsides:
- 🗑️ Advertising in system applications (can be turned off in settings).
- 📴 Limited support: Redmi budget models get updates for a maximum of 2-3 years.
- 🔍 Data collection: MIUI Actively collects telemetry (you can disable in Settings) → Confidentiality).
⚠️ Warning: If you buy Redmi for the international market (global version), check the firmware region (CN ROM) Google Services does not support Google Services and has restrictions on installing apps from the Play Market.
How to remove ads from MIUI
Where and how to buy Redmi devices: official and unofficial channels
Redmi smartphones and gadgets can be bought in a number of ways, but not all are safe.
Official channels (recommended):
- 🌍 Xiaomi official website (mi.com) – 12-24 month warranty, original firmware.
- 🛒 Partners: Amazon, AliExpress (only from official sellers marked "Global Version").
Informal channels (risks):
- 🚨 Grey dealers: can sell devices with Chinese firmware (CN ROM) Google Services.
When buying, pay attention to:
- Firmware Region: Global (Global) ROM) Chinese (CN ROM).
- Warranty: Official dealers give a guarantee of 12 months.
- Package: The box should have a charger, cable and documentation.
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Check the IMEI phone on imei.info before buying it, which will help you avoid counterfeits and stolen devices.
Redmi Device Service and Repair: What You Need to Know
If your Redmi gadget is out of order, you have several repair options:
Official Xiaomi service:
- ✅ Warranty repair (if the device is purchased from an authorized dealer).
- ✅ Original spare parts are used.
- ❌ Long time (from 2 weeks) and high cost (for example, replacing the screen with the Redmi Note 12 Pro will cost 50-70).$).
Informal service centres:
- ✅ Quick repairs (1-3 days).
- ✅ Below the price (for example, battery replacement - from 15)$).
- ❌ Risk of using unoriginal spare parts.
Self-repair:
- 🔧 Possible for simple operations (replacement of the battery, cleaning of the charging connector).
- 🛠️ For complex breakdowns (replacement of the screen, motherboard) requires special tools.
⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the Bootloader on Redmi devices will void the warranty. If you plan to install custom firmware (like LineageOS), do so after the warranty period has expired.
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For repairs under warranty, keep a check and a box - without them, the service center may refuse service.