The transition to a new version of the operating system is always an exciting moment for the owner of a smartphone, especially when it comes to a popular line of devices Xiaomi. The update from Android 9 Pie to Android 10 brings not just new features, but also fundamental changes in working with privacy and gesture control. For many users Mi UI in conjunction with the tenth version of Android it becomes smoother and more responsive, eliminating a number of bugs that were present in previous builds.
However, the firmware process requires care and strict adherence to the algorithm of actions. An unprepared device may experience boot errors or data loss if basic security rules are ignored. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the available methods for upgrading software: from standard over-the-air updates to manual installation through recovery mode.
It is also worth considering that the availability of the update directly depends on the specific model of your gadget. If your device was released in 2018–2019, the likelihood of receiving official firmware is extremely high, while for older models this process may require third-party solutions. Let's start by checking compatibility and preparing your device for important changes.
Preparing your device and checking compatibility
Before starting the installation process, it is critical to ensure that your device officially supports the target version of the software. The company Xiaomi releases updates in waves, and sometimes the delay is not due to technical problems, but to regional distribution features. You can check for the update in the settings, but deep preparation begins long before you click the “Download” button.
The first step will be to free up space in the system memory. Update files for MIUI 11 or MIUI 12 based on Android 10 can take up from 2 to 4 gigabytes, and the unpacking process requires even more free space. It is recommended to clear the application cache and delete unnecessary media files by moving them to your computer or cloud storage.
⚠️ Attention: Insufficient free space is the most common cause of download errors or freezing of the installation process at 99%. Free up at least 5 GB before you start.
You should also check the battery charge level. The flashing process is power-intensive, and a sudden power outage in the middle of writing system partitions can lead to irreversible consequences known as "bricking". Connect your smartphone to the charger and make sure that the indicator shows values above 60%.
Information about model support and update schedule may change by developers. It is recommended to check the list of supported devices on the official Mi community forum or in the Services and Feedback application.
☑️ Preparing for the update
OTA update method (over the air)
The simplest and safest method for the average user is to use the built-in mechanism OTA (Over-The-Air). This method does not require connection to a computer or special technical knowledge. The system independently checks the manufacturer's servers for the presence of a new build that is suitable specifically for your serial number and region.
To start the procedure, go to the settings menu of your device. Find the About phonesection, which is usually located at the very top of the list of parameters. Inside this menu you will need to click on the large version icon MIUI. The system initiates checking for updates in the background.
If the server detects an available version of Android 10, a download button will appear on the screen. After downloading the package, the system will prompt you to reboot for installation. The entire process takes from 15 to 40 minutes depending on the speed of the flash memory of your smartphone. During this time, the device will reboot several times, which is absolutely normal behavior.
If the update button is grayed out, try changing the region in the settings (Settings → Advanced settings → Region) to “India” or “Global”, then change back to your region and check the update again.
Sometimes the automatic notification does not arrive for months due to queues servers. In this case, you can force the check by going to the advanced menu. To do this, in the “About Phone” section, you need to quickly click 7-10 times on the logo of the MIUI version, after which additional download functions will become available.
The OTA method saves all user data and settings without the need for a full reset, which makes it the priority choice for most users.
Manual installation via Recovery Mode
If automatic updating does not work or you want to install a specific version firmware that is not available in your region, you will have to use the Recoverymode. This method requires first downloading an archive with firmware (.zip format) from the official website or trusted resources. It is important to download the Recovery ROM, and not the Fastboot ROM.
After downloading the file, move it to the root directory of the smartphone’s internal memory without placing it in any folders. Rename the file to update.zip to simplify the system recognition process. Next, you need to put the device into a special recovery mode.
To enter Recovery, turn off the smartphone completely. Then hold down the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time. Hold them until the logo appears Mi, then release the power button, but continue to hold the volume down until the main recovery mode menu appears.
- 📂 Select the interface language (English and Chinese are usually available).
- 🔄 Press the item
Install Update.zipor “Install” update." - ✅ Confirm the action and wait until the verification and installation process is completed.
- 🔌 After successful installation, select the option
Rebootto reboot into the system.
This method allows you to bypass regional restrictions of your telecom operator or manufacturer. However, if you try to install firmware with a lower version of Android over the current one (downgrade), the system will throw an error and block the process for security reasons.
What to do if Recovery writes "Can't verify update"?
This error means that the file signature does not match the current software version or the file is damaged. Try downloading the firmware again from another source or make sure that you are not trying to roll back to an old version.
Firmware via computer and Fastboot
The most advanced method, which is often used when restoring broken devices or completely changing the firmware region, involves using a PC. To do this, you will need a utility Xiaomi Flash Tool and ADB/Fastboot drivers. This method allows you to install Fastboot ROM, which has the file format .tgz.
Before starting work, you need to unzip the downloaded archive with the firmware on your computer. The path to the folder must not contain Cyrillic characters or spaces, otherwise the utility will not be able to read the files correctly. Connect the switched off smartphone to the computer via the original USB cable, while holding down the volume down button to enter Fastboot mode.
fastboot devicesEnter this command in the command line on the computer (after setting up environment variables for ADB) to make sure that the PC sees the device. If the serial number is displayed in the response, you can launch the Mi Flash app. In the utility interface, select the path to the unpacked folder with the firmware.
| Firmware mode | Description of action | Impact on data |
|---|---|---|
clean all |
Full cleaning and installation | All data are deleted |
save user data |
Installation with saving | Data is saved |
clean all and lock |
Cleaning and blocking the bootloader | All data is deleted, BL |
Select mode clean all for a clean installation systems without garbage from previous versions. Click the button Flash and wait for the process to complete. The green inscription "success" in the app log means the successful completion of the operation. After this, the phone will automatically reboot, and the first boot may take up to 10 minutes.
⚠️ Attention: When using the mode
clean all and lockon global firmware with an unlocked bootloader, the device may be locked forever. Be extremely careful when choosing the blocking option.
Typical errors and methods for solving them
During the update process, users often encounter various failures that can cause panic. One of the common problems is an endless reboot (bootloop) after installation. This often happens if data from old applications conflicts with the new Android 10 system structure.
The solution in this case is to perform a factory reset (Wipe Data) through the Recovery menu. Don't be afraid of this procedure if you have a backup. Go to Recovery, select Wipe Data, confirm the action and, after completion, select Reboot. This will clear the cache and settings, allowing the system to start correctly.
Another common error is the “Not enough space” message even if there are free gigabytes. This may be due to file system fragmentation or hidden system files. Try clearing the cache of the Dalvik/ART partition through the Recovery menu before attempting installation again.
- 🚫 Error 404 on boot: Problem with Xiaomi servers or Internet connection. Try changing the DNS to 8.8.8.8.
- 📉 Stuck on the logo: Most often solved by holding the power button for a long time (15-20 seconds) to force a reboot.
- 🔋 Fast discharge after update: The system indexes files in the background. Let the phone charge for 1-2 hours without active use.
Most software failures after an update can be resolved with a full data reset (Wipe Data), so having a backup copy is critical.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will I lose my photos and contacts when updating?
When using the standard OTA method or mode save user data in Recovery, all your personal files, contacts and applications are saved. However, when flashing firmware via Fastboot with the option clean all or if critical errors occur, the data may be deleted. Always make a backup copy before starting any work.
Is it possible to update if the bootloader is unlocked?
Yes, you can. Having an Unlocked Bootloader does not prevent the installation of official OTA updates. However, if you install a custom Recovery (for example, TWRP), the automatic update may not work and a manual installation will be required.
Why is my Xiaomi not receiving the update to Android 10?
This may be due to the fact that support for your model has already ended, or the update has not yet reached your region. Also a common cause is installed unofficial firmware or modified system files that block receiving updates from the server.
Is it safe to interrupt the update if the phone is frozen?
No, interrupting the process of writing system partitions is extremely dangerous and will most likely damage the device. If your phone is frozen, try waiting up to 30 minutes. Only if the screen has gone dark and the device does not respond to buttons for more than an hour, you can try a forced reboot, but the risk is great.
Do you need to update applications after changing the Android version?
It is advisable. After a major system update, some apps may become unstable due to changes in the Android API. Go to the Google Play Store and update all installed apps to the latest versions to ensure maximum compatibility.