Xiaomi has confirmed that a significant number of its smartphones under the brands Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO will no longer receive software support. The measure, which is part of the products’ scheduled life cycle, implies the termination of new versions of the Android operating system, the HyperOS interface and, most critically, the monthly security packages. Milhões of users will be impacted globally, raising an alert about the vulnerability of personal data on devices that will no longer receive patches against digital threats.
The end of scheduled support means that devices will become progressively more susceptible to cyber attacks, as discovered security flaws will no longer be corrected by the manufacturer. Além of digital risk, the absence of updates compromises the device’s functionality in the long term, as new applications and services may require newer versions of the operating system to function correctly.
The list of affected models includes devices that were sales successes in several markets, ranging from the entry-level line to devices considered premium at their launch. The decision forces consumers to evaluate not only the hardware specifications at the time of purchase, but also the update policy and the software lifetime promised by the company.
Understanding software end-of-life status
When a smartphone enters the list of “End of Support” (EOS), or Fim of Suporte, the manufacturer completely ceases software development for that specific model. Isso goes far beyond not receiving new visual features or functionality from the HyperOS interface. The main consequence is the freezing of the device’s security level. Monthly security updates, distributed by Google to fix newly discovered vulnerabilities in the Android system, are no longer implemented. Essa absence turns the device into an easy target for malware, spy software and phishing attempts, as security holes remain open and known to malicious actors. Over time, the user experience also degrades, as application developers, especially those from financial institutions and social networks, demand minimum security standards that an outdated system can no longer provide, resulting in compatibility errors or the inability to install or update essential apps.
Xiaomi 12 premium line models affected
The Xiaomi 12 series, which represented the pinnacle of the brand’s technology at its launch, will see several of its models end their software support. Aparelhos like the Xiaomi 12 and the Xiaomi 12
The measure extends to other variants of the family, such as the Xiaomi 12X and the Xiaomi 12 Lite, which were positioned as high-performance alternatives with better cost-benefit. Esses devices will follow suit, no longer receiving crucial system and security updates. The only momentary exception are the Xiaomi 12T and 12T Pro models, which are still scheduled to receive the update to HyperOS 2, based on the Android 15.
The popular Redmi Note 12 family in the crosshairs
The largest volume of users affected by the Xiaomi decision is concentrated on the Redmi Note 12 line, one of the best-selling globally. Modelos as well as Redmi Note 12 Pro and Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G are scheduled to end support.
The measure also impacts the more accessible versions, such as the Redmi Note 12 5G and the Redmi Note 12 4G, which are gateways for many consumers to the brand’s ecosystem.
The discontinuation will not be uniform. The Redmi Note 12 5G is still expected to receive HyperOS 2 with Android 15 as its last major update.
On the other hand, the 4G variant of the same device will have HyperOS 2, but based on an older version of the system, Android 14, highlighting the segmentation of the update policy.
POCO brand devices will also be discontinued
POCO, a performance-focused sub-brand of Xiaomi, will also have important models discontinued. Entre they are the POCO F5 5G, a notable case in that it was launched in 2023, which means a relatively short software support cycle. Além of this, devices from the popular POCO X5 series will also have their support ended, directly impacting the public looking for performance at competitive prices.
The manufacturer’s update strategy
The policy for ending software support is in line with industry practices, but the duration offered by Xiaomi is often compared to its competitors.
Generally, the company offers between two and three major Android updates and three to four years of security packages for most of its devices.
This period is shorter than that of brands such as Samsung, which offers four years of system updates and five security updates, and Google, which promises up to seven years for its Pixel devices.
Security risks in outdated devices
Using a smartphone that no longer receives security updates exposes the user to a series of digital threats. Known Vulnerabilidades can be exploited to install malware that steals banking information, social network passwords and personal data stored on the device.
Furthermore, the lack of security patches can compromise the integrity of communication applications, such as messengers and emails, allowing conversations and files to be intercepted by third parties. In the long term, the device becomes a weak link in the user’s digital security.
What to do if your cell phone is on the list
The main recommendation for owners of devices that have made it onto the EOS list is to plan to replace with a newer model that has an active update policy. Manter the use of a vulnerable device is not advisable, especially for those who carry out financial transactions or store sensitive information on their cell phone.
For users with advanced technical knowledge, an alternative is to install custom ROMs, such as LineageOS. Esses operating systems, developed by the community, may provide newer versions of Android and security updates. However, the process is complex, can cause instability in the device and is not recommended for the general public.
