How to find out the Bluetooth version on Xiaomi Redmi 8: all the ways from settings to ADB

Xiaomi Redmi 8 is a popular budget smartphone with a good set of features, but information about the version of the Bluetooth module is often hidden from the user. Depending on the region and batch of the device in Redmi 8 can be chips with support for Bluetooth 4.2 or 5.0, which affects data transfer speed, communication range and power consumption. If you plan to connect wireless headphones, fitness bracelet or use the device in the smart home system, knowing the exact version of the protocol will help avoid compatibility problems.

In this article, we will discuss 5 working ways to check the version of Bluetooth on Xiaomi Redmi 8 – from standard Android settings to using hidden engineering menus and the use of a new version of the device. ADB-You'll learn how to tell Bluetooth 4.2 from 5.0 without disassembling your phone, which apps give accurate information, and why the data in the characteristics on the box may not match reality.

1. Verification through standard Android settings

The easiest, but not always accurate, way is to look at the Bluetooth version in the settings menu. On the Redmi 8 with the MIUI shell, the path may differ depending on the firmware version, but the overall scheme is the same:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to the About Phone (or About Device) section.
3. Tap a few times on the MIUI version until the words “You are a developer!” appear (this unlocks hidden options).
4. Return to the main settings menu and select Additional → For Developers (or Advanced Settings → Developer Settings).
5. Scroll down to the Network block – the Bluetooth version can be displayed here.

⚠️ Note: Some Redmi 8 firmware (especially global ones) don't have this item. If you don't see the Bluetooth version, move on to the next way.

💡

If the "Developers" option does not appear after the MIUI taps, check if the "Allow System Settings Change" option is included in the settings (usually in the "Special Features" section).

Even if the version is displayed, don't be too excited: sometimes MIUI shows general protocol support (e.g., "Bluetooth 5.0"), but the older version is actually used due to the limitations of the hardware. To make sure you're accurate, compare the data with other methods.

2. Use of diagnostic applications

If the system settings are not answerable, third-party utilities will come to the rescue. We tested 5 popular applications and selected those that work exactly on Xiaomi Redmi 8:

• 📱 AIDA64 — It shows detailed information about the hardware, including the Bluetooth chip model and supported protocols. → Bluetooth.
• 🔍 CPU-Z — The SoC tab sometimes contains data about wireless modules.
• 🛠️ DevCheck – a modern alternative AIDA64 It's a user-friendly interface. The Bluetooth version is displayed in the Hardware block. → Chipset.
• 📊 Bluetooth Scanner is a specialized application for analyzing nearby devices. In the settings, it shows the version of your adapter.

How to use AIDA64 (Step-by-step):

1. Download the app from Google Play.
2. Start and wait for the scanning system.
3. Go to the Network section → Bluetooth.
4. Note the lines: Bluetooth version is the main parameter (e.g. 4.2 or 5.0). chip model - if Qualcomm WCN3990 is specified, it's Bluetooth 5.0; if Broadcom BCM43xx is likely 4.2.

⚠️ Note: Redmi 8 with firmware below MIUI 12 AIDA64 It may show the wrong version of Bluetooth, in which case use DevCheck or check through the engineering menu.

3. Engineering menu: hidden data about Bluetooth

The Engineering Menu (or Engineer Mode) is an Android service section that stores low-level hardware data. On the Xiaomi Redmi 8, it can be opened without root permissions, but neatly: changing some parameters can disrupt the phone.

Instructions for entry:

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Enter the combination: ##4636## (test menu opens).
3. Select Phone Information (or Phone Information).
4. Scroll down to the Bluetooth block – the protocol version and chip model can be displayed here.

Step-by-step:

1. Connect Redmi 8 to your computer and allow debugging over USB.
2. Open the command line (or Terminal) and type: adb shell getprop ro.boot.btver If the command returns an empty line, try: adb shell dumpsys bluetooth_manager
3. In the output, look for lines with version or chip, such as: Bluetooth version: 5.0 (LE)

💡 Transcription of results:

• 4.2 is the standard version for most Redmi 8 chips (Broadcom BCM4356 model).
• 5.0 - occurs in late batches (chip: Qualcomm WCN3990).
• LE (Low Energy) – Support for energy saving mode.

5. Physical check: disassembly of the phone (extreme case)

If the software methods don't work, you have to do a visual inspection of the Bluetooth module, which is only suitable for advanced users, because it requires disassembling the phone and risking damage to the plumes.

How to find a Bluetooth chip on the Redmi 8 board:

1. Turn off the phone and remove the tray for SIM-map.
2. Carefully tuck the back cover with a plastic spatula (it is glued).
3. Unscrew 10 screws and remove the metal screen.
4. The Bluetooth module is usually located next to the Wi-Fi chip (look for the labels BCM4356 or WCN3990).

📌 How to distinguish versions by marking:

⚠️ Warning: Disassembly of the phone is warranty-free and can damage antenna contacts. If you are not sure about your skills, contact the service center.

💡

On Xiaomi Redmi 8, the Bluetooth version depends on the batch: early devices (2019) are almost always equipped with a 4.2 chip, and late (2020+) can have 5.0.

Bluetooth 4.2 vs 5.0 Comparison: Which Is Better for Redmi 8?

Knowing the Bluetooth version, you can see how your Redmi 8 can connect to your accessories.

🔹 When is Bluetooth version important?

• 🎧 Connection TWS-Headphones (e.g. Xiaomi AirDots): 5.0 less latency.
• 🏠 Smart home: Bluetooth Mesh devices (e.g. Xiaomi MiJia) require 5.0+.
• 🎮 DualShock 4 and Xbox Controller are more stable at 5.0.

If your Redmi 8 is equipped with Bluetooth 4.2, this is not a cause for frustration: for most tasks (calls, music, fitness bracelets), it will suffice. But if you plan to use two wireless devices at the same time (for example, headphones + smart watches), it is better to upgrade to a smartphone with 5.0+.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Bluetooth on Xiaomi Redmi 8