Smartphones Xiaomi work on a proprietary shell MIUIbuilt on top Android. Regular updates not only bring new features, but also close security vulnerabilities, optimize performance, and fix bugs. However, the update process on devices Xiaomi, Redmi i POCO has nuances that are not always obvious to users.

In contrast to the "pure" Android, where updates come directly from Google, the firmware for Xiaomi undergo additional adaptation. This means that even after the release of a new version Android (for example, Android 15), owners will have to wait until Xiaomi integrates it into MIUI and tests for compatibility with specific models. In this article, we will analyze all available update methods - from standard OTA to manual firmware via Fastboot, and also explain why sometimes updates are delayed or do not arrive on all devices.

1. How to check the current version of MIUI and Android

Before looking for updates, make sure you know the current firmware version. This will help avoid installing incompatible files or re-downloading already installed patches.

To find out the version MIUI i Android:

  • 📱 Open the application Settings on the main screen.
  • 🔍 Scroll down and select About phone (or About device on some models).
  • 📋 In section MIUI version the firmware number will be indicated (for example, MIUI 15.0.4), and below is the version Android (for example, Android 14).
  • 🔢 Remember or write down model code (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G), it will be needed to search for manual firmware.

On some devices (for example, POCO F5 or Xiaomi 13T) the path may be slightly different: Settings → General → About phone → MIUI version. If you have global version (with Global), updates will come through servers Xiaomi for the international market. For Chinese versions (without Global), manual installation may be required.

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If in the "About phone" section there is no information about the Android version, try entering the query "android version" in the settings search - the system will show a hidden section with detailed information.

2. Automatic update over the air (OTA)

The easiest and safest way is to wait for a notification about the availability of an update. Xiaomi sends out OTA packages (Over-The-Air) in stages: first to a limited number of devices for testing, then to all compatible models. how this process works:

  1. Checking servers: The device contacts the servers once a day Xiaomito find out about new versions. If an update is available, a notification appears.
  2. Downloading: The update file is downloaded in the background (weight is usually from 1.5 to 3 GB).
  3. Installation: After downloading, the system will prompt you to reboot. The update is installed during the reboot (takes 5–15 minutes).

To run the scan manually:

  1. Go in Settings → About phone → System update.
  2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Update package (or Check for updates).
  3. If an update is available, click Download and wait for it to complete.

If the button Update the package is inactive or says “There are no updates,” this does not always mean that there are really none. In this case, it will help Reset the update cache:

Clear the data of the "System Update" application in Settings → Applications

Restart the phone

Connect to another Wi-Fi networks (or use mobile data)

Repeat checking for updates-->

Only when a notification arrives

I check manually once a month

I install manual firmware immediately after release

I never update -->

3. Why the update does not arrive: common reasons

If your device has not received OTA for a long time, the problem may lie in one of the following factors:

Cause How check Solution
Regional restrictions MIUI version marked CN (China) or IN (India) Reflash to the global version or wait for the local release
Locked bootloader When trying to manually update it gives an error Couldn't verify update Unlock the bootloader via Mi Unlock Tool (requires an account Mi)
Not enough space There is less than 3–5 GB of free space in the "Storage" section Clear cache or transfer files to a memory card
Device in the "black list" Custom firmware or root was previously installed Return stock firmware via Fastboot

A critical feature of Xiaomi: if you have ever unlocked the bootloader or installed unofficial firmware, the device may be marked as “unsafe” and deprived of OTA updates until it is completely returned to stock. In this case, only manual firmware will help.

Another common problem is binding to the regionFor example, if you bought Xiaomi 12T in China (version CN), but use it in Russia, updates may arrive with a delay or not at all. The solution is to reflash the device to global version (for example, MIUI Global or EEA for Europe).

What to do if the update is stuck at 0%?

If the download progress has been updated to 0% and does not move:

1. Restart the phone.

2. Clear the data in the "System Update" application (Settings). → Applications → All applications → System update → Storage → Clear data).

3. Connect to another Wi-Fi network or use mobile data.

4. If this does not help, download the full update package manually (see section 4).

4. Manual update via Recovery

If automatic updating does not work or you want to install the firmware immediately after release, you can download the file manually and flash it via stock RecoveryThis method saves all data and does not require unlocking the bootloader.

Instructions:

  1. Download the correct firmware:
    • 🌐 Go to the official website Xiaomi (support section) or to the forum Xiaomi Community.
    • 🔍 Enter the device model (for example, Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G).
    • 📁 Select the latest stable version MIUI for your region (Global, EEA, Russia etc.).
    • 💾 Download the file with the extension .zip (usually weighs 2-3 GB).
  2. Move the file to your phone:
    • 📂 Connect the device to your PC or download the file directly to your phone.
    • 📁 Move the archive to root folder of internal memory (not to folders Download or MIUI).
    • 🔄 Rename the file to update.zip (optional, but makes it easier to find).
  3. Install via Recovery:
    • 🔧 Turn off the phone.
    • 🔘 Press Volume up + Powerto enter Recovery.
    • 📱 Select a language in the menu (if required), then Install update.zip.
    • ✅ Confirm the installation and wait for completion (do not interrupt the process!).

If after rebooting the phone is stuck on the logo MI longer than 10 minutes, it means the firmware was incompatible with your model. In this case, you will have to reflash via Fastboot (see section 5).

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Manual update via Recovery is the only official way to install the firmware without losing data. However, it only works if you download the file from the same region as the current version of MIUI.

5. Firmware via Fastboot: for experienced users

Method Fastboot is used when:

  • 🔄 You need to switch from the Chinese version (CN) to the global one (Global).
  • 🚨 The device is "bricked" after an unsuccessful update.
  • 🔓 You need to unlock the bootloader to install custom firmware.

This method erases all data on the phone, so make a backup copy first. You will also need:

  • 💻 Computer with installed drivers Xiaomi and tool Mi Flash Tool.
  • 🔌 USB cable (preferably original).
  • 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (if not unlocked - follow the official Xiaomi instructions).

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Download Fastboot firmware for your model from the website Xiaomi (file with extension .tgz or .zip). data-i="207">(an image of a hare in a hat with earflaps will appear).
  2. Turn off your phone and press Volume down + Powerto enter the mode Fastboot (an image of a hare in a hat with earflaps will appear).
  3. Connect the phone to the PC and run Mi Flash Tool.
  4. In the app, click Select, specify the path to the unpacked firmware, then select mode Clean all (full cleaning) or Clean all and lock (cleaning + bootloader lock).
  5. Press Flash and wait for completion (the process will take 5-10 minutes).
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If Mi Flash Tool gives an error anti-rollback, then you are trying to install an older version of MIUI than the one already installed on the phone. In this case, return to the current or newer firmware.

After the firmware, the phone will reboot and offer to configure the system as new. This method is guaranteed. will restore the functionality of the device, even if it does not turn on or is stuck in the boot loop.

6. Beta versions and custom firmware: risks and opportunities

In addition to stable updates, Xiaomi offers beta version of MIUI for enthusiasts. They contain new features before the official release, but may have errors. Participation in beta testing is available through the app Mi Pilot, but requires:

  • 📝 Registration in the application Mi Community.
  • 🔓 Unlocked bootloader.
  • 📱 Devices from list of supported models.

To install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience) you will need:

  1. Unlock the bootloader.
  2. Install custom Recovery (for example, TWRP).
  3. Flash the firmware ZIP file via TWRP.
What are the dangers of custom firmware?

Installing unofficial firmware can lead to:

- Loss of warranty (if the bootloader is unlocked).

- Non-working modules (camera, NFC, sensors).

- Problems with banking applications (due to lack of certification Google).

- "Brick" the device if there is a firmware error.

It is recommended to use custom firmware only on backup devices or if you are prepared for possible problems.

If you decide to return to the official firmware after the custom one, you will have to flash it through Fastboot with complete data clearing.

7. Frequent errors during updating and how to fix them

Even when following the instructions, users encounter errors and ways to solve them:

Error Cause Solution
Couldn't verify update Damaged update file or incompatible version Download the file again or check model compliance
Error 7 in TWRP Inappropriate firmware for the device Install the correct version of MIUI for your model
The phone does not turn on after the update Interrupted process or incompatible firmware Flash via Fastboot (see section 5)
Mi Flash Tool does not see the device Missing drivers or incorrect connection mode Install drivers Xiaomi and reconnect the phone in Fastboot

If after the update the phone began to slow down or quickly discharge, try:

  • 🔄 Reset settings to factory settings (Settings → Advanced → Recovery and reset).
  • 🧹 Clear cache via Recovery (select Wipe Cache).
  • 📉 Roll back to the previous version (if the error is critical).
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If after the update the sound disappears, the camera does not work or does not catch the network, most likely the firmware was intended for another modification of the device (for example, for Redmi Note 11 Pro instead of Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to roll back a MIUI update to a previous version?

Yes, but with reservations. Xiaomi blocks rollback to older versions through the mechanism Anti-RollbackIf you try to install firmware older than the current one, you will get an error or a "brick". The safest way is to flash the same version that is currently installed, but clean (without user data).

Why did Russification disappear after the update?

This happens if you installed the firmware for a different region (for example, Chinese CN instead of global GlobalSolution - Solution). flash the correct version of MIUI for your device. Also check the language settings in Settings → Advanced → Language and input.

How long does the OTA update take?

Download depends on the Internet speed (usually 10-30 minutes Installation takes 5-15 minutes, but if). the process took longer than 20 minutes and the phone does not respond - force reboot it (hold Power for 10-15 seconds).

Is it possible to update Xiaomi without connecting to Wi-Fi?

Yes, but this is not usually recommended. update files weigh 1.5–3 GB, and downloading them via the mobile data can lead to additional costs. If you still want to update via a mobile network, disable background restriction in Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks → Data transfer → Background restriction.

Why is there no update to Android on my Xiaomi? 14/15?

Xiaomi supports updates Android for 2-3 years from the date of release of the device (for flagships - up to 4 years). If your model is older, it may remain on the latest compatible version. Check the official list of supported ones. devices on the website Xiaomi.

If your question is not covered in the article, check the device model and current version MIUI this will help you find the exact solution.