Security at risk: 17 Xiaomi devices will soon stop receiving official updates
Xiaomi has officially announced that a total of seventeen devices, including fifteen smartphone models and two tablets, will enter the “End of Life – EOL” phase for security updates throughout the year. The measure implies that these devices will no longer receive fixes against vulnerabilities, new versions of the operating system or any other type of software support from the manufacturer. The list includes popular devices such as the Xiaomi 12 and the Redmi 12C.
The schedule for suspending support is already underway and will extend until November, progressively affecting each model according to the stipulated date. Embora devices continue to function for basic tasks, such as calls and internet access, the absence of security patches will make them progressively more vulnerable to digital threats that emerge in the future.
This growing vulnerability can compromise the functionality of applications that require high security standards. Plataformas banking, payment services and messaging applications with advanced encryption can restrict or block access from outdated operating systems to protect user data, making devices less useful in everyday life.
What does the end of support for devices mean?
The end of the update cycle of an electronic device represents an important milestone in its useful life. From that point on, the manufacturer ceases software development for the model, which means that it will no longer receive monthly or quarterly security packages that correct critical flaws discovered in the Android system and in the brand’s own interface.
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This practice, common across the technology industry, allows companies to focus their engineering and development resources on the latest products. Manter support for an extensive portfolio of old devices becomes logistically complex and financially unfeasible over time, directing efforts towards innovation and improvement of new technologies.
Security risks for personal data
The main consequence of the end of support is exposure to digital security risks. Cibercriminosos are constantly looking for new loopholes in operating systems to exploit. Sem the updates that correct these flaws, devices become easy targets for different types of attacks, such as the installation of malware and spyware.
These malicious software can be designed to steal confidential information, such as social media passwords, credit card data, and bank account access credentials. Além Additionally, phishing attacks, which trick users into voluntarily providing their information, become more effective on unprotected systems.
The integrity of data stored on the device, such as photos, documents and contacts, is also compromised. In more serious cases, an attacker can gain remote control of the device, using it for illicit activities or spying on the user through the camera and microphone, representing a serious violation of privacy.
Timeline and full list of affected devices
Xiaomi released a detailed list of models and the respective dates on which support will end. The first device on the list was the POCO X5 Pro, whose support ended in February. Most devices, however, will have their updates suspended over the next few months, requiring attention from owners.
In March, the discontinuation affected a significant group of devices, including the Redmi A2, Redmi 12C, Redmi Note 12 5G, 12 Pro joins the list of officially unsupported devices.
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The schedule continues in May with the end of support for the POCO F5 and POCO F5 Pro. In June, Xiaomi 12 Lite stops receiving updates. Haverá a break until October, when the Xiaomi 12T Pro and Xiaomi 12T will also reach the end of their software life cycle.
At the end of the year, the Redmi 13C and POCO C65 models will have their support ended in November. Além of smartphones, two popular tablets are also on the list: the Redmi Pad SE and the Xiaomi Pad 6 will no longer receive security updates, following the same policy applied to cell phones.
Impact on consumers and planned obsolescence
The decision to end software support for older devices is directly linked to the concept of planned obsolescence, an industry strategy that limits the useful life of a product to encourage the purchase of new models. Embora is a consolidated market practice, it generates a direct financial impact for consumers, who are forced to invest in a new device to maintain security and access to all features. Most Android manufacturers offer, on average, two to four years of system updates and an additional period for security patches, a cycle that forces devices to be renewed periodically.
This policy affects users with lower purchasing power more intensely, for whom purchasing a new smartphone represents a considerable expense. Além the financial issue, there is a growing debate about the environmental impact of this practice. The premature disposal of perfectly functional electronics, but without software support, significantly contributes to the increase in electronic waste, one of the fastest growing and most polluting wastes in the world. Iniciativas recycling and exchange programs offered by some companies are palliative, but do not solve the structural problem of the accelerated consumption cycle.
Alternatives with extended support in the brand portfolio
Para consumers who need to replace their devices or are already looking for a model with greater longevity, Xiaomi itself has invested in lines with more generous update policies. The Redmi Note 14 series, for example, is a highlight, offering five years of security updates for most of its models, with guaranteed support until 2029, and an even longer period for the 4G version, which will receive patches until 2031. up to 200 MP. Outras lines also follow this trend, such as the Poco, which with the models Poco X7 and Poco For the entry-level segment, the POCO C85 appears as a low-cost option with promised support until August 2031, ideal for those looking for a basic but long-lasting device. Já in the premium segment, the Xiaomi 15T and 15T Pro models offer the most advanced technology and photography, with the promise of updates until September 2031.
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Recommendations for those who have a discontinued model
For users who cannot or do not want to change devices immediately, it is essential to adopt strict security practices. Recomenda avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for financial transactions, keep applications always updated by Google Play Store, and use a reliable antivirus solution to add an extra layer of protection against threats.
