Xiaomi has officially announced that it will end software support for a wide list of smartphones from its brands Xiaomi,
The measure is part of the company’s product life cycle policy, which aims to concentrate development resources on the latest models and ensure the best experience for new launches. Entre those affected are popular devices launched mainly between 2022 and 2023, which are now entering the final phase of their scheduled support.
With the end of updates, devices will continue to function normally, but will be progressively more exposed to security flaws that will no longer be fixed. Além Furthermore, the absence of new versions of the HyperOS system may lead to incompatibility with future applications, limiting the functionality of cell phones in the long term.
Which models will be affected by the decision
The list of devices that will lose support in 2026 is extensive and covers entry-level, mid-range and even some premium models from previous years. The Xiaomi 12 line is one of the most notable, including the Xiaomi 12, 12 Pro, 12X and 12 Lite. Esses devices, which were the brand’s flagships at their launch, will no longer receive security packages after the established deadline.
In the Redmi portfolio, the very popular Redmi Note 12 family is the main one affected. Modelos like the Redmi Note 12, Redmi Note 12 Pro and Redmi Note 12 Discontinuation of updates for this line could have a significant impact due to its huge user base.
The POCO brand, focused on performance and the gamer audience, will also have important models discontinued. The list includes the POCO F5 5G and the entire POCO X5 series. Esses devices, praised for offering robust specifications at competitive prices, will no longer be updated, which could be a critical factor for users who depend on security and optimized performance for games and demanding tasks.
Xiaomi’s decision follows an industry trend, where manufacturers generally offer between two and three major operating system updates and an additional period of security updates. The affected models were launched with the MIUI system and, for the most part, have been updated to the new HyperOS, but will not receive future versions of the interface based on new versions of Android.
What the end of support means in practice
For the average user, the termination of software support has direct implications for the security and usability of the device. The main consequence is the interruption of security updates. Hackers and malware developers are constantly discovering new vulnerabilities in operating systems. Sem the correction patches that Xiaomi will no longer provide, cell phones become easy targets for data theft, invasions of privacy and installation of malicious software. Informações bank accounts, passwords and personal data are exposed to increasing risks.
In addition to security, the lack of operating system updates, such as new versions of HyperOS or Android, means that users will not have access to new features, performance improvements, and battery optimizations that are released periodically. Over time, popular Google Play Store applications may no longer be compatible with older versions of the system, preventing the user from downloading or updating essential apps. Isso gradually turns the smartphone into an obsolete device, even if the hardware is still functional and capable of performing everyday tasks.
The Xiaomi update policy and HyperOS
Xiaomi’s end-of-support strategy is aligned with mobile technology market practices. Fabricantes like Samsung and Google have recently extended their support periods, but most companies still adopt a life cycle that varies from three to five years, depending on the device segment. Entry-level and mid-range Dispositivos, like many of the Redmi line, tend to have a shorter support compared to top-of-the-line models.
The transition from MIUI to HyperOS represented a milestone for the company, with the promise of a more integrated and optimized ecosystem. However, this change also requires a great effort to develop and adapt software for each model. By discontinuing support for older devices, Xiaomi is able to reallocate its engineering teams to focus on HyperOS stability and innovation for the latest devices and future releases.
This policy, while frustrating for owners of older devices, is seen by the industry as necessary to maintain a healthy pace of innovation. Maintaining software for a very vast and old portfolio can slow down the development of new technologies and compromise the quality of updates for newer cell phones, which represent the majority of the brand’s revenue and active user base.
Alternatives for users of discontinued devices
In light of the announcement, owners of affected models need to consider their options to ensure safety and functionality. The safest and most direct recommendation is to plan to exchange for a newer smartphone that still receives official updates. Isso not only solves the security problem, but also offers access to newer hardware technologies such as better cameras, more efficient processors, and longer battery life. Para For those who want to continue in the brand’s ecosystem, newer models from the Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO lines already come with clearer and, in some cases, longer update policies. Outra possibility is to continue using the device, but with extra precautions. Isso includes avoiding downloading apps from unknown sources, not connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, and being wary of suspicious links and emails. Installing good antivirus software is also an extra layer of protection, although it does not replace security patches for the system itself. Para advanced users with technical knowledge, there is an option to install a custom ROM, such as LineageOS. Esses Alternative operating systems are developed by the community and often offer newer versions of Android and updated security patches for devices that are no longer officially supported by manufacturers. Contudo, the process is complex, can void the warranty, cause instability and, if done incorrectly, permanently render the device unusable.
The future of the Redmi Note 12 line
The Redmi Note 12 series, due to its immense sales success, represents one of the user groups most impacted by the decision. The family is made up of several variants, including 4G and 5G models, each with a slightly different upgrade schedule, but all with support scheduled to end in 2026. The fragmentation of the lineup makes the upgrade landscape complex.
For example, the Redmi Note 12 5G is expected to receive HyperOS 2 based on the Android 15 as its last major update, while the 4G version is expected to end its cycle on the HyperOS 2 based on the
Impact on the used car market
The announcement of the end of support has a direct and negative effect on the used smartphone market. Models included on the discontinuation list tend to suffer a sharp depreciation in value, as the lack of security updates is a factor of great weight for informed buyers. The demand for these devices tends to decrease considerably.
For anyone looking to sell one of these devices, the ideal is to do so before the end of support approaches, to maximize resale value. On the other hand, for buyers who are looking for a very low price and are aware of the risks, this could be an opportunity, as long as they take appropriate safety precautions when using the device.
Safety recommendations to continue using your cell phone
For those who decide to continue using a device without official support, it is essential to adopt a proactive stance regarding security. Manter the internet browser, like Google Chrome, always updated through Play Store is crucial, as it receives security patches independently of the operating system, protecting against online threats.