Smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 4, released in 2016, has earned a reputation as a “long-liver” thanks to a successful balance of characteristics and autonomy. However, time is inexorable: official support for the operating system for this model has long been discontinued, and many users are wondering whether it is possible to extend the life of the device. Updating software is not just changing the version number, but also a way to close security vulnerabilities, although in the case of outdated gadgets this process has its own nuances. Owners often confuse updating and a full version change. It is important to understand that using standard methods through the phone settings you can only get the latest available official firmware version, which is based on the old Android kernel. Installing newer versions of the operating system will require complex manipulations with unlocking the bootloader and installing custom recovery.
Owners often confuse updating MIUI shell and a full version change Android. It is important to understand that using standard methods through the phone settings you can only get the latest available official firmware version, which is based on the old Android kernel. Installing newer versions of the operating system will require complex manipulations with unlocking the bootloader and installing custom recovery.
Before taking any actions, you need to assess the risks. The flashing procedure always carries the possibility of turning the device into a “brick” if you break the sequence of steps or select the wrong image file. This article takes a detailed look at both safe update paths within the Xiaomi ecosystem, as well as advanced methods for enthusiasts who want to experiment with custom software.
Official update methods through smartphone settings
The easiest and safest way to check for new software versions is to use the built-in update mechanism. This method involves working in an environment MIUI Recoverythat verifies the digital signature of the file before installation. If Xiaomi servers still store the latest packages for your model, the phone will offer to download them.
First, make sure that the device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, as the volume of updates can reach several gigabytes. Go to menu Settings → About phone and click on the large logo of the MIUI version. The system will automatically contact the server and check for updates.
If an update is found, the download will begin, after which the installation button will appear. At this point, the phone will reboot and begin the process of flashing the system partition. The screen may go off and on several times - this is normal behavior, which absolutely cannot be interrupted.
⚠️ Attention: Official support for Redmi 4 (Primate) has ended with version MIUI 10 or 11 depending on the region. If the automatic search does not find updates, it means that the servers no longer offer new packages for this model.
There is also a method of manually selecting the update file from within the menu. The downloaded archive with firmware (.zip format) must be placed in the root of the internal memory. Then in the update menu, click on the three dots in the corner of the screen and select Select the firmware file. Specify the path to the downloaded archive, and the system will check its integrity.
Before starting the update process, make sure that the battery charge is at least 60%. A sudden power outage while writing system partitions can disrupt the bootloader structure.
Preparing the device for manual flashing
If automatic methods do not work or you want to install a specific software version manually, careful preparation will be required. Manual firmware installation (method Recovery) allows you to bypass carrier restrictions or regional blocks, but requires compliance with strict rules.
The first step is to create a full backup of your data. The built-in application Mi Backup allows you to save contacts, messages, call logs and system settings to an SD card or computer. Remember that when you change the firmware type (for example, from Global to China or vice versa), all data will be permanently deleted.
- 📂 Copy all important photos and documents to external media or cloud storage.
- 🔋 Fully charge your smartphone to 100% and leave it connected to the charger for a while firmware.
- 💾 Download the correct firmware version for your model (Redmi 4 Prime / Standard / High Edition) from the official archive.
- 📶 Turn off the Internet on your phone before starting installation to avoid synchronization conflicts.
It is critically important to determine the exact modification of your device. Redmi 4 comes in three variants: regular (Pro), Prime and High Edition. Firmware from one version will not work with another and may damage the phone. You can find out the model in the section Settings → About phone or on the box of the device.
☑️ Ready for flashing
Installing the firmware via Recovery mode
Mode Recovery is a special recovery environment built into every Android smartphone. It allows you to install updates, reset settings to factory settings, and clear the cache. There are two types of recovery for Redmi 4: standard (Stock) and custom (TWRP), but we will consider working with stock, as it is safer for beginners.
To enter recovery mode, turn off the smartphone completely. Then hold down the key Volume Up and the button Powerat the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the Power button while continuing to hold the volume down. You will see a menu with several items in English or Chinese.
If you downloaded the full firmware (Recovery ROM), rename the file to update.zip and place it in the root of the internal memory. In the Recovery menu, select Install update.zip (or similar, depending on the interface language). Confirm the action, and the verification and installation process will begin.
| Firmware type | File extension | Installation method | Saving data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recovery ROM | .zip | Through the Recovery menu | Possible (without cleaning) |
| Fastboot ROM | .tgz | Via computer (MiFlash) | No (complete cleaning) |
| OTA Update | .zip (temporary) | Through phone settings | Yes |
| Custom ROM | .zip | Via TWRP Recovery | No (wipe required) |
After installation is complete, select item Reboot to System. The first boot after flashing may take up to 10-15 minutes, as the system optimizes applications and creates new cache files. Don't panic if your phone freezes at the logo - give it time.
What to do if the "Can't verify update" error appears?
This error means that the file signature does not match the region of your phone or the version is too old/new. Try to download the firmware strictly for your region or use the method of completely clearing the data before installation.
Advanced level: Unlocking the bootloader and Fastboot
For those who want to install a newer version of Android than Xiaomi offers, or change the firmware region from China to Global, you will need to unlock the bootloader (Bootloader). This is an official procedure from Xiaomi, but it requires waiting and linking your account.
The process begins by submitting an application on the Xiaomi unlock website. You will need to log into your Mi Account on your phone, enable the Factory unlocking item in the developer menu and link the device to your account. After this, you need to download the utility Mi Unlock Tool to your computer.
Switch the phone to Fastbootmode by holding down the Volume Down and Power. Connect it to your PC via the original cable. In Mi Unlock, press the unlock button. Please note: after linking an account, a wait of 7 to 168 hours (from a week to a month) is often required.
⚠️ Attention: Unlocking the bootloader automatically performs a full data reset (Wipe Data). All files, contacts and applications will be permanently deleted.
After successful unlocking, an open lock icon will appear on the loading screen. This opens up access to installing custom recoveries, such as TWRPwhich allow you to install unsigned system images, including pure Android (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) for Redmi 4.
Unlocking the bootloader will void the warranty (if it is still valid) and increases security risks, since some banking applications may refuse to work on an unlocked device.
Solving common problems and errors
During the update process, users often encounter various failures. One of the most common problems is an endless reboot (bootloop) or stuck on the logo. This may happen due to a conflict between old data and the new version of the system or damage to system files.
If the phone does not boot, try entering Recovery mode and performing a factory reset (Wipe Data / Factory Reset). This will delete all user data, but often saves the system from software errors. It is also recommended to clear the partition Wipe Cache and Dalvik Cache.
- 🔄 Bootloop: Try to reflash the device via Fastboot with a complete wipe of all partitions.
- ❌ Error 7 during installation: Mismatch of Android version or device type. Check if you are trying to install the firmware from Redmi 4 Prime on a regular Redmi 4.
- 📉 Slowness after update: Give the phone a few hours for background optimization. If it doesn’t help, resetting the settings is required.
Another problem is the lack of network or non-working IMEI after flashing. This happens when a partition is damaged EFS or Persist. Recovering them is difficult, so never format these partitions manually if you are not sure of your actions. To restore, you may need a professional flashing box or a service center.
Alternative ways: Custom firmware and new versions of Android
Since official support for Redmi 4 ended at Android 6.0 or 7.0 (depending on the modification), the only way to get Android 10, 11 or higher is to install custom firmware. Enthusiasts have created many ports, such as LineageOS, Resurrection Remix or Xiaomi.eu.
Custom firmware often works faster than official ones, since they do not contain unnecessary pre-installed software and Xiaomi advertising services. However, stability is not guaranteed: the camera may perform worse, and features like VoLTE or fingerprint may not be compatible.
To install such a system, you will already need an unlocked bootloader and TWRP Recovery installed. The process includes installing the system image itself, Google Apps packages (GApps) and, if necessary, security patches. This requires careful study of the instructions on specialized forums such as w3bsit3-dns.com or XDA Developers.
⚠️ Attention: The interfaces and capabilities of custom firmware are constantly changing by developers. Features that work today may be removed in a future release. Always check the "Known Errors" (Bugs) section before downloading.
Using alternative software turns the old Redmi 4 into a completely modern device for basic tasks, but requires high technical literacy from the user. An error at any stage can lead to a complete loss of functionality of the device.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to officially update Redmi 4 to Android 12?
No, Xiaomi stopped supporting this model several years ago. The latest official version is based on Android 6.0 or 7.0. To get Android 12, you need to install custom firmware via an unlocked bootloader.
What to do if the phone says “Device not found” when connected to a PC?
Try replacing the USB cable with the original one, using another USB port (preferably USB 2.0) or installing the ADB and Fastboot drivers manually through Device Manager Windows.
Is it safe to install firmware from China on the global version?
Without unlocking the bootloader - no, the installation will be blocked. With an unlocked bootloader - it is possible, but this will lead to the deletion of all data and the appearance of Chinese services instead of Google, if you do not flash the global package on top.
Will the update erase my photos and contacts?
Updating via OTA or the Recovery menu (without the Wipe Data item) usually saves the data. However, switching between firmware types (for example, from Stable to Beta) or using Fastboot with a clear key (clean all) will delete all information.
Where to download secure firmware for Redmi 4?
The only completely safe source is the official website mirom.ezbox.id or portal en.miui.com. Files from third-party forums can be modified and contain malicious code.