Xiaomi has officially terminated the update program for a considerable list of its smartphones, a decision that directly affects the digital security of millions of owners of devices from the Redmi and POCO sub-brands. The measure implies that these devices will no longer receive not only new versions of the Android operating system and the HyperOS interface, but also the essential monthly security packages, leaving them progressively more exposed to vulnerabilities and cyber attacks.
The policy, known as Fim of Suporte (EOS – With hardware still fully functional for most everyday tasks, the interruption of software support reignites the debate about the useful life of electronic devices and so-called planned obsolescence, forcing consumers to consider replacing a device before the end of its physical capacity.
The timeline for discontinuation varies for each model, with the process extending over the next few months. Para users, the main consequence is the need to weigh the risks associated with the continued use of an unprotected smartphone against the decision to invest in a new model that offers the latest security guarantees.
The vulnerabilities of an unprotected smartphone
Cybersecurity experts are unanimous in advising against using a smartphone that no longer receives security updates. The absence of these critical fixes makes the device a vulnerable target for a growing range of digital threats. Novas flaws in the Android system are continually discovered by researchers and, almost simultaneously, exploited by cybercriminals to develop malware, spyware and ransomware. The most immediate danger for the average user is the theft of sensitive information, such as social media passwords, email credentials and, most critically, access data for banking applications and credit card information. An outdated operating system lacks the modern defenses to neutralize sophisticated phishing attacks, where a single click on a malicious link can result in the installation of spy software or redirection to a fake page that captures data without the victim realizing it. Over time, the functionality of the device itself becomes compromised, as essential applications, especially those from banks and digital payment services, may stop working when they detect that the system no longer meets the minimum security requirements to operate, blocking the user’s access to their own financial resources.
Series Redmi Note: End of support for best sellers
The Redmi Note line represents one of the most important pillars of the Xiaomi portfolio, being responsible for a significant share of its global sales. The success of these devices is attributed to their aggressive cost-benefit ratio, which democratized access to resources previously restricted to more expensive segments.
The inclusion of extremely popular models, such as the Redmi Note 12 series, in the EOS roster will have a massive impact, affecting a user base that numbers in the millions. Consumidores who invested in these devices with the expectation of longevity now find themselves with a device that will become obsolete from a digital security perspective in the near future.
This action can influence the perception of trust in the brand, especially among the public who value not only competitive pricing, but also the guarantee that their investment will remain safe and functional for a reasonable period of time. Complexity increases with fragmentation within the pipeline itself, where different variants may have different support timelines, creating confusion.
Top-of-the-line models like the Xiaomi 12 are also on the list
One of the biggest surprises in the list of devices with ended support is the presence of the Xiaomi 12 family. Lançados as the brand’s flagships, devices like the Xiaomi 12 and the Xiaomi 12 The hardware of these models continues to be extremely powerful, capable of running today’s most demanding applications and games with complete fluidity.
This makes the decision to cease security updates even more frustrating for its owners, who have a physically powerful but digitally vulnerable device. The measure is not limited to flagship models, extending to other popular variants such as the Xiaomi 12 Lite and the 12T series, which includes the 12T and 12T Pro.
For the vast majority of these devices, the last major update was Android 14 under the HyperOS interface. Isso means they will not receive Android 15 or future software innovations developed by Xiaomi itself.
This policy puts users in a delicate position: continue using a high-performance smartphone, however exposed to risks, or bear the cost of a new purchase much earlier than the hardware would require.
The update policy for the POCO sub-brand
POCO, a sub-brand of Xiaomi known for its focus on raw performance and for captivating an audience of technology enthusiasts and gamers, was also largely affected by the new end of support policy. Modelos hugely successful sales, like the POCO F5, are scheduled to have their security updates phased out in the coming years.
The case of the POCO F5 is particularly notable. The device was launched with cutting-edge hardware, equipped with the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 processor, which to this day offers performance comparable to that of many more expensive models. The decision to shorten support for such a capable device could shake the trust of the loyal community that the brand has built.
Other popular devices from the POCO X and POCO M series, which cover different price segments, will follow a similar fate. The situation raises questions about the company’s long-term strategy for a line whose reputation was solidified based on the promise of high performance and active support from the developer community.
How to check if your device will be discontinued
Xiaomi maintains an official, publicly accessible list of all devices that have reached Fim of Suporte (EOS). Users can and should check this page to check the specific status of their model and the expected end date of security updates.
To find the information, simply perform an online search for “Xiaomi EOS product list”. The brand’s official website will present the complete list, generally organized by product line (Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO), which facilitates quick and accurate verification.
Are there alternatives for affected users?
For users with more in-depth technical knowledge, there is an alternative path to extending the life of the hardware. Installing a custom ROM, such as LineageOS, Pixel Experience or others based on the AOSP project (Android Open Source Project), may be a viable solution.
These alternative operating systems, maintained by the free software community, often provide newer versions of Android and updated security patches for devices that have already been officially abandoned by their manufacturers. However, it is crucial to highlight that the process of unlocking the bootloader and installing a new ROM is complex, can void the device’s warranty and, if performed incorrectly, can render the device unusable. Portanto, is a best practice for experienced users only.
What the decision means for the market
The Xiaomi decision is not an isolated case and reflects a broader trend in the mobile technology industry, where the software lifecycle is often shorter than the physical durability of the hardware. Esta practice pressures consumers to change devices more frequently than necessary, boosting the consumption cycle and contributing to the increase in global electronic waste. The scenario serves as an important warning for consumers to consider a manufacturer’s update policy as a decisive criterion when purchasing, placing it on the same level of importance as specifications such as camera, battery or processor capacity. The longevity of software support has become an essential factor in the long-term security and usability of a smartphone.
