Develop Bugs

[Guide] How To Install / Flash Custom Roms Step by Step | Noobs Easy Way | Xperia S

Complete Beginners Guide To Flash Custom ROM on Xperia S | 2011 Devices
This Guide Is Made Easier To Understand The Basics To Install / Flash Custom ROM (Specifically On Xperia Phones). You will not need to go to any annoying links and go on reading lengthy descriptions everything required is provided here. :victory:
Everything is Step By Step.
Just Follow Them And Everything Will Work Fine
Now Lets Get Down To Business.
​
This Tutorial is Specially For
For Complete Beginners
For Newcomers to Android
For Those Who Want To Learn Flashing ROM Easy Way
People who did not had any encounters with Programming
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks To All The Senior Developers For Providing Us The Knowledge In Developing Modding And Flashing And Amazing Guides Through Out XDA Forum. Without You People This Guide Would Not Have Been Complete
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This Guide Is Covered in Next 4 Posts With Every Step As Described Below.
NOTE : I Will Explain This Thread For Flashing Custom ROM Cyanogenmod 10 for Xperia S.
Link here---> https://sites.google.com/site/projectfreexperia/
You can download any Stable ROM The Procedure is Same For All.​
Step by Step Process Tree
Step 1. Rooting Xperia S​Step 2. Unlocking Bootloader​Step 3. Installing CWM Recovery​Step 4. Flashing A Custom ROM​Step 5. That's it! You will Have The Custom Rom Running.​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Step 1 : Rooting Your Xperia S
Step 1 : Rooting Your Xperia S
This is done by Using A Root Tool Provided by Our Senior Developer @Bin4ry. Please Press His Thanks Button For Helping Out For The Amazing TooL!
Just Download The Tool By Clicking Here : Root_with_Restore_by_Bin4ry_v30
For Xperia S 2.55 Firmware look in this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...php?p=39498268
But Don't Start Running The Tool Yet. Before That you need to Do A Couple Of Things, :angel:
Before Rooting What You Need?
1.) Install Your Phones Software Driver, ---> PC Companion Will Do The Job Just Connect The Phone And Check If It Detects!
2.) Activate USB Debugging, Setting ---> Developer Options
3.) Activate Unknown Sources, Setting ---> Security
4.) Connect Your Phone via USB
5.) Confirm That Your Device Is Connected Properly In Device Manager.
Only Then,
6.) Proceed With Rooting Tool Kit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How To Use It?
1.) Download Attached File.
2.) Extract it Using Winrar
3.) Double click the RunMe.bat and follow instructions!
Xperia phones with "older" firmware = Normal mode
Sony Tablet and similar = Special mode
Xperia phones with JB Firmare = Mode 3 (Goroh_kun mode)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Complete Video Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EpkrCq1gfM
Just Follow The On Screen Instructions. (Its really easy like installing a game :laugh
After The Software Finishes Its Work! Your Phone Must BE Rooted By Now!

Step 2 : Unlocking Bootloader on Xperia S
Step 2 : Unlocking Bootloader on Xperia S
Procedure To Unlock Bootloader of Sony Xperia S LT26i :
1.) Installation of Fastboot USB Drivers (Xperia S)​2.) Unlocking Bootloader of Xperia S​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now, We Will Unlock The Bootloader,
Why to Unlock Bootloader?
1.) You can flash custom ROMs/Kernels
2.) You don't need to worry if the new firmware can be rooted or not as with unlocked bootloader u can always ROOT Your device
[ Before We Begin Unlocking Bootloader ]
Get the IMEI code for ur device: type *#06# in phone dialer to find it out, note only the digits (no dashes)
Make Sure The Fastboot Drivers Are Installed.
Make sure u have a windows PC with USB cable to connect the phone
Power down ur phone and keeping the Volume Up button pressed connect the USB cable to PC this will trigger FASTBOOT mode and windows
Will start driver installation, extract the above package and point the driver install to that location (usb_driver) folder
Once drivers are installed just disconnect cable and power on device.
[ How to Unlock ] (Official Way)
Video Link ---> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRH3pC7MhEA
For better understanding, I highly recommend you to watch the above video along with the instructions below:
1.) Download ‘Fastboot Drivers And Pacakges File For Xperia S’ file from → Here
2.) Extract the file you downloaded above on your PC. You’ll get the following three files:
drivers.zip
fastboot_with_Android_USB_file.zip
3.) Go to: http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/ and read everything!
This will open a web page in your default browser. Scroll to the bottom of the Instructions on the page and you’ll see a link like “Continue”, click on it.
In the pop-up window click “Yes, I’m sure” and then in the next window click on both the checkboxes, and then click “I accept”.
4.) Now insert the details as per the instructions:
First 14 digits of your IMEI No. Do NOT enter the last digit (15th) in the box. To know your IMEI No. dial *#06# on your Xperia Arc.
Your Name
Your Email Address
Click Submit.
5.) You’ll get a KEY to unlock boot loader. Write it down somewhere you can remember, it will be used later.
6.) Switch off your phone.
7.) Now extract the “fastboot_with_Android_USB_file.zip” file you got in Step 2.2.
8.) Pick up your phone (it must be switched off) and hold the “Menu” button (the key at the bottom right of your phone), now while holding the “Menu” button connect your phone to your PC with an USB cable.
9.) Once connected — the LED light near the phone’s USB plug will turn blue. If it doesn’t — repeat the Step 8.
10.) Now to install the drivers do the following:
Extract the “drivers.zip” file you got in Step 2.1
Open “Device Manager” on your PC and look for “S1Boot Fastboot” under the head “Other devices”
Right-click on “S1Boot Fastboot” and select “Update Driver Software…”
Now select “Browse my computer for driver software” and select the folder where you’ve extracted all the three files you got in Step 2. Once done — click Ok.
Now click Next (Make sure you’ve ticked the “Include subfolders” checkbox).
If you see any Windows security warning box, don’t worry . Just select “Install this driver software anyway”
Wait for “Windows has successfully updated your driver software” message to appear on your screen. Now click Close.
11.) Open the “fastboot” folder from the file we extracted in Step 7.
12.) Now hold Shift and press mouse right click (Shift + Mouse Right Click) anywhere on the empty white space inside the “fastboot” folder. And then select “Open command window here” from the context menu.
13.) Now in the command prompt window type/paste the following:
fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version​
14.) It should return a value like “0.3”. This ensures that your device is correctly connected.
15.) Now type/paste the following line in the command prompt window:
fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce oem unlock 0xKEY​
IMPORTANT! Replace the word “KEY” from the above line with the KEY that you received in Step 5. Then Hit Enter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
16.) Now wait for the process to complete. Command prompt will show a “Finished” message when it will be completed.
17.)Once it’s done, disconnect the USB cable from your phone and switch it ON.
18.)Your phone’s boot loader should now be Unlocked.
(The above videos and some steps are for Xperia 2011 devices, but most the steps are same for Xperia S/P/U/Sola)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Step 3 : Installing ClockWorkMod Recovery With RoceoverX
Step 3 : Installing ClockWorkMod Recovery With RoceoverX
We Will Install Recovery Using RecoverX Software.
Download The Software from Here ----> RecoverX v1.6.8.0
You just have to select your device and the recovery, click "Install" and RecoverX does the rest !!! It's that simple!!
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

Step 4 : Flashing ROM
Step 4 : Flashing ROM
Assuming you have already downloaded your required file, let’s proceed.
ROM Flashing
1.) Copy Paste update on Phone
Copy update- copy update-xxx-xxx-xxx.zip coresponding to your device to sdcard
Copy GAPPS. Download Link [Here]
2.) Flash CM kernel
Set USB Debugging On from Settings - Developer Options.
Connect the phone to the PC.
Click 1 - Click the Lightning icon.
Select 2 - Select the Fastboot Mode.
Click 3 - Click Ok.
Click 4 - Select Reboot Into Fastboot Via Adb and wait for the phone to go into fastboot mode. (Blue led).
Click 5 - Select Reboot Into Fastboot Via Fastboot and wait for the phone to go into fastboot mode. (Blue led).
Click 6 and 7 - Select the boot.img (Extract The boot.img file from zip)
Click 8 - Reboot phone. After reboot, the phone will be in recovery mode.​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3.) Boot into Recovery
While FXP logo is displayed (and lights are lit) press several times volume up to enter CWM (recovery)
4.) Flash ROM
To update main rom select
Install zip from sdcard
Choose zip from sdcard
Select your update (copied at step 2)
To flash gapps redo steps a-c and select gapps package
Use gapps version designed for your android version !!! Link ---> Here, Gapps
5.Wipe device
Whip Cache
Whip Dalvik Cache (Advanced Option)
Cache Partition
If after boot you experience ForceClose then is recomended to reboot to recovery and wipe device​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
6.) Partition format
7.) Reboot and Enjoy :victory:
Troubleshooting
If you experience a bootloop (phone constantly reboots and reboots on the boot screen) or a soft brick (powering on the phone shows an orange triangle with a phone and computer), don’t be afraid. XDA to the rescue!
For a bootloop:
Take out the battery.
Wait for 3 min.
Put the battery in. Do NOT power on the phone.
Keep pressing Volume Up + Home simultaneously and press the power button to turn on the device.
Once the phone shows the model number screen, leave the buttons.
Your phone will boot into recovery.
Select “Wipe data/ Factory reset”. (Volume Up for going up and Volume down to go down)
After the reset is done, select “Reboot system now”.
The phone will reboot and you should be all fine.
For a soft brick:
You probably flashed some faulty firmware or firmware not meant for your device.
The File You Downloaded Must Be Incomplete.
Download the correct firmware and flash again.

woa! really great thread!
thnx for this step by step tutorial.. this really will help me and other begginers here in xperia forum..

there's some mistake in your guide:
first, you can't root last xperia s rom version with Bin4ry root tool
it would be better to link the main thread which then will lead people to the right place
then, i think that instead of using recoverX to install CWM, it would be better to flash advanced stock kernel (and then TWRP if you like)
and you don't need to flash FXP kernel before flashing rom
last but not least... i think that this thread would be better sitting in general section (instead of the android development one)

mirhl said:
there's some mistake in your guide:
first, you can't root last xperia s rom version with Bin4ry root tool
it would be better to link the main thread which then will lead people to the right place
then, i think that instead of using recoverX to install CWM, it would be better to flash advanced stock kernel (and then TWRP if you like)
and you don't need to flash FXP kernel before flashing rom
last but not least... i think that this thread would be better sitting in general section (instead of the android development one)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank You! I'd do the same..
And about the Last .55 Version I'd update the thread.
Next for the Advanced kernal.. Its true! but for beginners understanding CWM forms a very good base.
There were some issues with TWRP while providing null value in moving from CM10 to OPEN SEMC
So prefered CWM

How to rollback from Android 10 to 9?

Hello people,
I wish to know step by step how to rollback my devices to Android 9 official version.
1. I know that my bootloader need to be unlocked (is it possible on Android 10)?
2. How to install the official rom and where to find?
3. Would it work like the official with locked bootloader?
Please share your experience since and the way did you done it ??? since Android 10 on my Mi A2 lite have been working very bad even though I have erased all data and reset it.
Appreciate any information, have a good day (stay safe)

I am also going to downgrade it but not getting the time
Try Xiaomi Flash Tool.

koska92 said:
Hello people,
I wish to know step by step how to rollback my devices to Android 9 official version.
1. I know that my bootloader need to be unlocked (is it possible on Android 10)?
2. How to install the official rom and where to find?
3. Would it work like the official with locked bootloader?
Please share your experience since and the way did you done it since Android 10 on my Mi A2 lite have been working very bad even though I have erased all data and reset it.
Appreciate any information, have a good day (stay safe)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes, all you have to do is unlock OEM in developer settings, then boot to fastboot by turning off your phone and pressing power and vol- buttons at the same time, then open up adb in cmd and write "fastboot oem unlock" (it will wipe your data, unless you're still holding vol- button)
2. You install it by simply downloading it and unpacking, then copying it's directory to adb and choosing which option would you like, I recommend flash_all.bat, full command should look similiar
D:\daisy\daisy_global_images_V11.0.7.0.QDLMIXM_10.0\flash_all.bat
You can get every single fastboot Image from here:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2-lite/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824871
3. Yes it will work like an official with locked bootloader, only diffirence is that it might not have apps like google play music, also with unlocked bootloader you will be able to use magisk and get for example
Google camera app
Here you can download ADB
https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
Personally I didn't had a single problem with flashing Android One through fastboot, and personally I prefer that way since xiaomi flash tools need a phone that's in edl mode which later on you have to exit manually on your own (at least in my case, maybe others don't have this problem)

Divolka said:
1. Yes, all you have to do is unlock OEM in developer settings, then boot to fastboot by turning off your phone and pressing power and vol- buttons at the same time, then open up adb in cmd and write "fastboot oem unlock" (it will wipe your data, unless you're still holding vol- button)
2. You install it by simply downloading it and unpacking, then copying it's directory to adb and choosing which option would you like, I recommend flash_all.bat, full command should look similiar
D:\daisy\daisy_global_images_V11.0.7.0.QDLMIXM_10.0\flash_all.bat
You can get every single fastboot Image from here:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2-lite/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824871
3. Yes it will work like an official with locked bootloader, only diffirence is that it might not have apps like google play music, also with unlocked bootloader you will be able to use magisk and get for example
Google camera app
Here you can download ADB
https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
Personally I didn't had a single problem with flashing Android One through fastboot, and personally I prefer that way since xiaomi flash tools need a phone that's in edl mode which later on you have to exit manually on your own (at least in my case, maybe others don't have this problem)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your help I will try now to fix it up

UPDATE I would give you a guidance how I managed since I had an issue with miflash application (maybe I'm the only one )
If you are following my steps I'm NOT RESPONSIBLE for any damage that may occur during the process!!!
After a quite a while of time I managed to rollback to the Anroid 8.1.0 daisy ( here is the rom https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2-lite/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824871 ) .
As for beggining I had a problem with most newest MIFLASH tools, since it shows an error as soon you load application and all about certain "log" folder missing from the downloaded files.
The way to solve this issue after testing a program on multiple systems ( Win 7 & Win 10), I've resolved it in following steps (working on Win 10) :
1. Download and install MiFlash20160830 from https://www.xiaomiflash.com/download/ ( Don't forget to install ADB and drivers on your PC otherwise won't work
2. Extract and install to system
3. Run the program and connect the phone while in fastboot mode ( shut down phone, wait 10 seconds and then press volume down & power button, should see "FASTBOOT" and android avatar ) and press refresh on right top corner (On the MiFlash on PC).
4. Go to the installation files (C:\XiaoMi\XiaoMiFlash <- in my case) and copy the log file
5. Then install the newest MiFlash ( from the website https://www.xiaomiflash.com/downloads/ ) and extract it
6. Paste the log folder into the directory of newest MiFlash and run Miflash
7. Carefully browse and select the extracted rom folder, than select the folder and select "clean all and lock" (in right bottom corner)
8. Power off phone and go into the fastboot mode ( volume down & power )
9. Connect phone to the computer via USB and click refresh on Miflash (should recognize you phone)
10. Click flash and let it do the work (Don't disconnect don't interrupt )
11. When is done disconnect the phone and hold power button until phone reboots and you phone is ready! Enjoy
Sorry for being so descriptive it may help the noobs like me

Hi I'm currently using Android 9 and thinking of upgrading to 10. May I ask the reason why you want to go back to Android 9 ? So I'll see if I should actually go to android 10 haha

koska92 said:
UPDATE I would give you a guidance how I managed since I had an issue with miflash application (maybe I'm the only one )
If you are following my steps I'm NOT RESPONSIBLE for any damage that may occur during the process!!!
After a quite a while of time I managed to rollback to the Anroid 8.1.0 daisy ( here is the rom https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2-lite/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824871 ) .
As for beggining I had a problem with most newest MIFLASH tools, since it shows an error as soon you load application and all about certain "log" folder missing from the downloaded files.
The way to solve this issue after testing a program on multiple systems ( Win 7 & Win 10), I've resolved it in following steps (working on Win 10) :
1. Download and install MiFlash20160830 from https://www.xiaomiflash.com/download/ ( Don't forget to install ADB and drivers on your PC otherwise won't work
2. Extract and install to system
3. Run the program and connect the phone while in fastboot mode ( shut down phone, wait 10 seconds and then press volume down & power button, should see "FASTBOOT" and android avatar ) and press refresh on right top corner (On the MiFlash on PC).
4. Go to the installation files (C:\XiaoMi\XiaoMiFlash <- in my case) and copy the log file
5. Then install the newest MiFlash ( from the website https://www.xiaomiflash.com/downloads/ ) and extract it
6. Paste the log folder into the directory of newest MiFlash and run Miflash
7. Carefully browse and select the extracted rom folder, than select the folder and select "clean all and lock" (in right bottom corner)
8. Power off phone and go into the fastboot mode ( volume down & power )
9. Connect phone to the computer via USB and click refresh on Miflash (should recognize you phone)
10. Click flash and let it do the work (Don't disconnect don't interrupt )
11. When is done disconnect the phone and hold power button until phone reboots and you phone is ready! Enjoy
Sorry for being so descriptive it may help the noobs like me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice man!! I want to try it. Do you know if back to Android 8.1 can cause some security problems on Mi A2 Lite?
After the first update(8.1 to 9.0) a lots of problems comes. The first one: Call Recorders stop work!
Now I'm with the last Android 10 update, and my cell phone is a tash. I cant use it. Lot of bugs!
I need to change the android Version(back to 8.1), install a MIUI stock, or buy a new phone(I cant do it now!!). I think this is my first and my last Xiaomi Phone.

joeyvix said:
Nice man!! I want to try it. Do you know if back to Android 8.1 can cause some security problems on Mi A2 Lite?
After the first update(8.1 to 9.0) a lots of problems comes. The first one: Call Recorders stop work!
Now I'm with the last Android 10 update, and my cell phone is a tash. I cant use it. Lot of bugs!
I need to change the android Version(back to 8.1), install a MIUI stock, or buy a new phone(I cant do it now!!). I think this is my first and my last Xiaomi Phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When it comes to security, you would need to unlock bootloader ( which means that all of the warranty would be gone). On top of that you can install some custom roms that may have some potential malware so be careful.
Nevertheless when it comes to stock roms, I never had a problem when it comes to the security, it may show up some bugs from time to time, but otherwise should run as official version...
Well the phone is pretty much outdated so it's usual that some of them won't work properly.
Nevertheless in the past with Android One phones was more than smooth and buggless. Now we see that as soon as xiaomi start to release an update it seems like they don't want to invest time to pretest the phone on the new system. It seems like MIUI is their best option...

Hoshiiiii_ said:
Hi I'm currently using Android 9 and thinking of upgrading to 10. May I ask the reason why you want to go back to Android 9 ? So I'll see if I should actually go to android 10 haha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well the reason is simple. After each update my phone was much more slower and buggy. On the Android 10 the ram management was awful (as soon as you go out of the application, system close it). A lot of bugs, slow.
I've tried to connect customer service, they replied me to reset the phone and try again, but most of the problems are the same.
I won't suggest you to update.
Search out the form there was a subject about Android 10 on Mi a2 lite...

koska92 said:
UPDATE I would give you a guidance how I managed since I had an issue with miflash application (maybe I'm the only one )
If you are following my steps I'm NOT RESPONSIBLE for any damage that may occur during the process!!!
After a quite a while of time I managed to rollback to the Anroid 8.1.0 daisy ( here is the rom https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2-lite/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824871 ) .
As for beggining I had a problem with most newest MIFLASH tools, since it shows an error as soon you load application and all about certain "log" folder missing from the downloaded files.
The way to solve this issue after testing a program on multiple systems ( Win 7 & Win 10), I've resolved it in following steps (working on Win 10) :
1. Download and install MiFlash20160830 from https://www.xiaomiflash.com/download/ ( Don't forget to install ADB and drivers on your PC otherwise won't work
2. Extract and install to system
3. Run the program and connect the phone while in fastboot mode ( shut down phone, wait 10 seconds and then press volume down & power button, should see "FASTBOOT" and android avatar ) and press refresh on right top corner (On the MiFlash on PC).
4. Go to the installation files (C:\XiaoMi\XiaoMiFlash <- in my case) and copy the log file
5. Then install the newest MiFlash ( from the website https://www.xiaomiflash.com/downloads/ ) and extract it
6. Paste the log folder into the directory of newest MiFlash and run Miflash
7. Carefully browse and select the extracted rom folder, than select the folder and select "clean all and lock" (in right bottom corner)
8. Power off phone and go into the fastboot mode ( volume down & power )
9. Connect phone to the computer via USB and click refresh on Miflash (should recognize you phone)
10. Click flash and let it do the work (Don't disconnect don't interrupt )
11. When is done disconnect the phone and hold power button until phone reboots and you phone is ready! Enjoy
Sorry for being so descriptive it may help the noobs like me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you got an error saying log file error or something related to log then there is a simple solution. that is creating a folder named log inside the MIflash folder. like this
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

[GUIDES & FAQ][Merlin] Bootloader, Magisk, EdXposed, SafetyNet, GSI/Treble ROMs

DISCLAIMERS (please read !)​
This thread is made for the Redmi Note 9, also known as Redmi 10X 4G.
This device's codename is Merlin.
I will not be held responsible if you brick your device.
Follow the instructions shown in this thread at your own risks.
Follow the steps and ask questions below when unsure, everything will be fine!
No files will be directly provided. Do not use pre-created/re-uploaded files.
Feel free to cite parts of this thread in your own, just make sure to give credit where it's due.
Prerequisites for most manipulations​
Your phone, well charged if possible
The USB cable used to link your phone to your computer (the one on your charger works just fine)
A computer, with recent ADB & Fastboot (Platform Tools)
Some time, patience, and the ability to read and follow instructions!
Tutorials​
Spoiler: Unlocking your bootloader (Required for all other tutorials below)
Step 1
Make sure you have a Mi Account ready.
You should've created one when first setting up your phone, with your phone number and a password.
- If you have it: Double-check you have access to it by attempting to connect on Xiaomi's official website (Login page).
- If you don't: Create one with the Create an account button below the password form (same link as above), then connect to it.
Step 2
On your PC, go to Xiaomi's unlock page and click the colored Download Mi Unlock button.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Step 3
A download should start. Wait for it to finish, move the archive to your desktop and extract its content.
Step 4
Inside the extracted folder, double click the file called miflash_unlock.exe to start Xiaomi's Unlocking program.
Step 5
Read Xiaomi's Disclaimer then agree to their terms, or stop here and leave this thread if you don't.
Step 6
Sign in to your Mi Account we talked about in Step 1.
Step 7
Let's get your phone ready for unlocking.
Go to your phone's Settings > Mi Account and make sure you're logged in.
Now Settings > About Phone and tap the "MIUI Version" box multiple times until it says You are now a developer!
And finally Settings > Additional Settings > Developer Options
Enable the following settings inside Developer Options, and click Accept when warnings pop-up:
OEM Unlocking
USB Debugging
Still in Developer Options, check your Mi Unlock status and click the Add account and device button at the bottom if present.
Make sure to backup your phone's data before continuing on with this tutorial, as unlocking will make it factory reset (wipe)!
Step 8
Alright, all backed up? Confident? Let's get going with the final steps.
Turn off your phone.
Turn it back on into fastboot mode by holding down the Power button AND Volume Down together until it vibrates, you may then let go of the Power Button, but keep Volume Down held until you see the fastboot image on your phone.
Connect your phone to your computer with the USB Cable.
Xiaomi's Software should detect it. If not, click on the cog-wheel in the top right, click the Check button to install the driver and follow instructions, then keep going.
Click Unlock, and follow the instructions!
Now there are two possible scenarios
Either you've done all this before and can have your phone unlocked right away.
Or this is the first time and at the end of the progress it'll ask you to wait ~7days, and, well, there's no way around that, so come back in 7 days and start from Step 8 again.
And there you go! Your phone will reboot and you can set it all up again, with the ability to follow the rooting tutorial below, and you can also install custom ROMs/recovery!
Spoiler: Rooting (Magisk)
Step 1
Download the latest Magisk .apk on your phone.
Go to the link above, click the latest (topmost) Magisk-vXX.X.apk you see in the list to start the download, open the file and install it.
Step 2
Go to the download page for the MIUI Official Rom for your region, make sure to get the fastboot version.
OR (if you don't want/can't download 3gb of ROM)
Follow DavitidzeSh's instructions on how to gather the boot.img and vbmeta.img files and SKIP to Step 5.
OR (if you're on a custom rom)
Look into your custom rom's .zip, find the boot.img and vbmeta.img files and SKIP to Step 5.
Step 3
Take the file you downloaded above, it should be a .tgz archive.
Extract it, you'll get a .tar achive.
Extract that one again.
Step 4
You should now have a folder similar to the one below
Go inside the images folder
Step 5
Grab the the vbmeta.img file and copy it to your ADB & Fastboot (Platform Tools) folder.
Grab the boot.img file and copy it to your phone's internal storage.
(where the Android, DCIM, Download, and more are present, just drop it in there)
Here's how it should look inside your phone's storage in the end.
Step 6
On your phone, open up Magisk Manager.
Click the Magisk Install button as shown below.
Then Select and Patch a File.
Go look for your boot.img you previously copied to your phone and pick it.
Click Let's go! and wait for Magisk to complete the process!
Step 7
Link your phone to your PC, grab the file made by Magisk Manager.
It's located in your phone's downloads folder, called magisk_patched.img.
Copy and paste it where your ADB & Fastboot (Platform Tools) are located.
You should now have a folder structure like this:
adb.exe
fastboot.exe
magisk_patched.img
vbmeta.img
Extra files from the platform tools
Step 8
Alright, we're ready to root!
Turn off your phone, then get in fastboot mode.
(Power + Volume Down, like the unlocking tutorial)
Step 9
Link your phone to your PC with the USB cable if not done already.
Step 10
Shift + Right click in an empty space inside the folder we prepared in Step 7,
And click Open PowerShell window here.
Inside the PowerShell window, input the following commands line by line, in order.
.\fastboot.exe devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Make sure your device shows up, should be a bunch of numbers and letters, a couple spaces, and fastboot.
If nothing does, go back to Step 8 and try again.
.\fastboot.exe --disable-verity --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta.img
.\fastboot.exe flash boot .\magisk_patched.img
.\fastboot.exe reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Note: Your PowerShell window will look different, I'm using a different program, don't worry
Your phone will reboot.
Open up Magisk Manager, and double check that it's installed.
You're done!
That said, you will have issues with certain apps leaving it like this.
You should to hide the fact that your phone is rooted.
Check out the Passing SafetyNet tutorial further down below!
Spoiler: Getting EdXposed
I very much discourage to EdXposed your phone unless you have a very good reason for it.
It's a pain to pass SafetyNet.
It doesn't get updated often.
It has very niche use cases for which it's actually worth it.
That said, I explain it here for people who know what they're getting into and want instructions on how to do it.
This procedure requires to be rooted with Magisk.
Step 1
Inside Magisk Manager, go to the Modules tab.
Click the search button (bottom right) and search Riru.
Install the Riru module by Rikka.
Activate it and Reboot.
Step 2
Download and install the latest EdXposed Manager, the same way you did with Magisk Manager when rooting.
Step 3
Open it up, go to the ALPHA tab and click install/update.
It'll start a file download.
Step 4
Go back to Magisk Manager, Modules tab, except this time click Install from Storage.
Point to the .zip file you just got, located in the Downloads folder of your phone.
At the end of the installation, click reboot.
Step 5
Let's double check your installation is operational.
Go to EdXposed Manager, first tab.
It should say EdXposed Framework is active.
You're done!
You should now be able to install EdXposed modules.
That said, you will have issues with certain apps leaving it like this.
You should to hide the fact that your phone is EdXposed.
Check out the Passing SafetyNet tutorial further down below!
Spoiler: Passing SafetyNet (Magisk/EdXposed)
For Magisk Rooted Phones
Enable Magisk Hide inside Magisk Manager's settings.
You may also need to use the Props module to spoof your phone as another, if you want a tutorial on that, let me know.
For EdXposed Phones
Again, I highly recommend not EdXposing your phone and sticking to just Magisk if you can help it.
You should also know that this method will show you're passing SafetyNet inside Magisk but it's a pain to do and isn't as well hidden as Magisk alone.
Step 1 - Do the step for Rooted phones listed above if not done already.
Step 2 - In EdXposed Manager, get the HiddenCore Module and activate it.
Step 3 - Now, in the side-menu: Compat List > tick HiddenCore Module.
Step 4 - Then, go to Settings > Framework > Enable "App List mode".
Step 5 - Finally, Applications(Black List) and tick: Android Services Library, Chrome, Google Play services, Google Play Store, Google Services Framework
Reboot and enjoy! You're all set and SafetyNet should pass.
Spoiler: Installing GSI's (Non-device specific ROMs)
Step 1
Pick your poison in the Treble Forums!
My recommendations are in the Extras section of this post.
Step 2
Download the chosen ROM's A/B Arm64 version
It should be an .img.xz file
Extract it and you'll get an .img file.
You're almost ready to flash.
Make sure to backup your phone's data.
Continuing this tutorial will wipe your phone!
Step 3
Put your phone into fastboot mode.
(Power + Volume Down)
Connect it to your PC.
Step 4
Move the .img file you downloaded to your ADB & Fastboot (Platform Tools) folder.
Rename it to system.img
Step 5
Shift + Right click in an empty space inside the folder,
And click Open PowerShell window here.
Inside the PowerShell window, input the following commands line by line, in order.
.\fastboot.exe reboot fastboot
.\fastboot.exe --disable-verification flash vbmeta .\vbmeta.img
.\fastboot.exe flash system .\system.img
.\fastboot.exe -w
.\fastboot.exe reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your phone will now reboot on its own.
Set it all up and enjoy!
That said, depending on how old the GSI you picked is, you MAY have issues leaving it at that.
Therefore, I highly recommend checking out the next tutorial section about Fixing GSI Issues.
Spoiler: Fixing brightness/jack on older GSI's
I have worked together with a developer to bring fixes for our device to every custom GSI rom out there.
The most recent GSI's shouldn't need the fixes listed below.
Older GSI (treble) roms have two known bugs that we can fix:
The brightness slider being misscalibrated, and therefore auto-brightness broken too.
The headphone jack not working.
You need to be rooted to do so.
Step 1 - Get yourself a Terminal Emulator, I recommend Termux
Step 2 - Type the following commands inside of it, line by line, in order:
su
setprop persist.sys.qcom-brightness $(cat /sys/class/leds/lcd-backlight/max_brightness)
setprop persist.sys.overlay.devinputjack true
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're done! Brightness should be fine, headphones get detected, enjoy!
Spoiler: Resetting your phone
Backup all the data you might have on your phone to restore it after the manipulation!
Step 1
Download the fastboot ROM corresponding to your region here.
(The same one used to grab the boot.img and vbmeta.img when rooting)
And extract it.
Step 2
Download the latest MiFlashTool.
And extract it.
Step 3
Put your device in fastboot mode.
(Power + Vol Down, refer to the rooting tutorial for a more info)
And connect it to your computer via USB.
Step 4
Open MiFlashTool (XiaoMiFlash.exe), your device should appear in the list.
Step 5
Click the Select button in the top left,
And point to your fastboot ROM's folder
(The one containing the "AP", "BP", "BP_IN", "images" folders and a bunch of files)
Step 6
At the bottom right of the software, choose if you either want to just:
clean all
(wipe and re-install)
OR
clean all and lock
(wipe, reinstall and re-lock your bootloader)
Note: If you re-lock your bootloader but wish to unlock it again later, you won't have to wait the 7 days again.
Step 7
Finally, in the top right, click the flash button.
Now just wait a while, your phone will reboot on the stock rom and you're good to go!
Extras​
Spoiler: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will unlocking my bootloader void my warranty?
A: No, it will not, it's easily reversable too, check the "Resetting your phone" tutorial.
Q: I rooted/EdXposed my phone and now Netflix won't even open, or doesn't work properly, what's up with that?
A: There's an easy fix if you have Magisk. Install the liboemcrypto disabler Magisk module, activate it and reboot.
Q: I tried unlocking my bootloader but, Mi Flash Unlock doesn't detect my phone, even though it's in fastboot mode and connected. Help?
A: Here are some things you can try:
Try another USB port.
Try another USB cable.
Install the Mi USB Drivers manually, they're included in the MiFlashUnlock folder.
Run the driver_install_64.exe, OR go to the driver folder, then the folder corresponding to your windows version, right click the android_winusb.inf and click Install.
In the Device Manager, check that the driver provider is Xiaomi.
If not, uninstall it and restart your computer.

RESERVED

Akitake said:
RESERVED
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
I am also a user of RN9 Merlin.
I think we should add more details like
-how to flash official firmware(both from stock recovery, fastboot)
-should we need the same MIUI firmware that is there before we started booting custom ROM(GSI), if we need to go back to stock?
-what should happen if we interrupt the process in middle
-unlocking bootloader linux, macos or a link for the guide
-why we need to flash vbmeta.img?
-how to make vbmeta.img on our own(some are giving modified one, what is it?)
I know we need more and more time to do these, but these will help a newbie/noob/beginner for Xiaomi and rooting.
Thanks

HemanthJabalpuri said:
Hi,
I am also a user of RN9 Merlin.
I think we should add more details like
-how to flash official firmware(both from stock recovery, fastboot)
-should we need the same MIUI firmware that is there before we started booting custom ROM(GSI), if we need to go back to stock?
-what should happen if we interrupt the process in middle
-unlocking bootloader linux, macos or a link for the guide
-why we need to flash vbmeta.img?
-how to make vbmeta.img on our own(some are giving modified one, what is it?)
I know we need more and more time to do these, but these will help a newbie/noob/beginner for Xiaomi and rooting.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.Flashing official firmware is universal method for all devices through fastboot, And for recovery, we can't flash it yet since TWRP doesn't support dynamic partition yet.
2.No, you don't need the same firmware.
3.If you interrupt the process in between, the device would remain in fastboot Mode, and you can still restart the process.

Yxnq_Param said:
1.Flashing official firmware is universal method for all devices through fastboot, And for recovery, we can't flash it yet since TWRP doesn't support dynamic partition yet.
2.No, you don't need the same firmware.
3.If you interrupt the process in between, the device would remain in fastboot Mode, and you can still restart the process.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I heard a term called "Anti Roll Back" from https://forum.xda-developers.com/redmi-note-5-pro/how-to/faq-questions-answered-t3816185
Are all our merlin ROMs have same version of anti roll back. That is are we able to flash MIUI 11 on MIUI 12?
Thanks

HemanthJabalpuri said:
I heard a term called "Anti Roll Back" from https://forum.xda-developers.com/redmi-note-5-pro/how-to/faq-questions-answered-t3816185
Are all our merlin ROMs have same version of anti roll back. That is are we able to flash MIUI 11 on MIUI 12?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anti-rollback is only an issue if you're trying to downgrade through the stock recovery (Vol + Up) or through MIUI's recovery (About Phone > MIUI Version > Three dots and there is an option there)
If you want to go back to MIUI 11 for some reason, you can, by flashing it through fastboot.
HemanthJabalpuri said:
Hi,
I am also a user of RN9 Merlin.
I think we should add more details like
-how to flash official firmware(both from stock recovery, fastboot)
-should we need the same MIUI firmware that is there before we started booting custom ROM(GSI), if we need to go back to stock?
-what should happen if we interrupt the process in middle
-unlocking bootloader linux, macos or a link for the guide
-why we need to flash vbmeta.img?
-how to make vbmeta.img on our own(some are giving modified one, what is it?)
I know we need more and more time to do these, but these will help a newbie/noob/beginner for Xiaomi and rooting.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1 - Google, this isn't Merlin specific.
2 - No, you can go back directly to the latest MIUI for your device.
3 - Just start over, your device will remain in fastboot, it's actually really safe.
4 - That's a niche demand, 99% of people use Windows and, if you use something else it's on you. If you're a Linux user, you're used googling information and it's not a problem. And for mac, well, worst case scenario use someone else's pc for 10 minutes.
5 - To prevent boot-loops. If you don't flash vbmeta, it won't boot.
6 - Read disclaimers, the tutorial literally tells you to take the vbmeta from the official rom. There's no such thing as a modified vbmeta, what matters is how we flash it with fastboot, disabling verifications.
Also this is my first post, and I'll add more as time goes on. But even as it is, I think it's miles better than what people care to create for most devices on XDA. It's also pretty detailed with images and such to reassure the user.

can someone help me?
So I wanted to unlock the bootloader
Did the
Turnn on OEM unlocking
Turn on USB debugging
Added my device on my account (the other thing to do in developer setting)
Boot into fastboot
The Mi unlock can't detect my device although the drivers are fine (I checked it in device manager) and I run it in administrator check the driver again in the software it says it is installed.
What can I do? Did I missed some steps?

markevan12 said:
can someone help me?
So I wanted to unlock the bootloader
Did the
Turnn on OEM unlocking
Turn on USB debugging
Added my device on my account (the other thing to do in developer setting)
Boot into fastboot
The Mi unlock can't detect my device although the drivers are fine (I checked it in device manager) and I run it in administrator check the driver again in the software it says it is installed.
What can I do? Did I missed some steps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here are some things you can try:
- Try another USB port.
- Try another USB cable.
- Install the Mi USB Drivers manually (included in the MiFlashUnlock folder, run the driver_install_64.exe, or go to the driver folder, then the folder corresponding to your windows version, right click the android_winusb.inf and click Install)
- In the Device Manager, check that the driver provider is Xiaomi. If not, uninstall it and restart your computer.

hi sir , can you tell the gsi rom install tutorial if we installed it from twrp?

fachrizoyy said:
hi sir , can you tell the gsi rom install tutorial if we installed it from twrp?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will not support custom recovery's. I highly dislike them, and they're unofficial for Merlin as well.

Thx for the answer

Akitake said:
Here are some things you can try:
- Try another USB port.
- Try another USB cable.
- Install the Mi USB Drivers manually (included in the MiFlashUnlock folder, run the driver_install_64.exe, or go to the driver folder, then the folder corresponding to your windows version, right click the android_winusb.inf and click Install)
- In the Device Manager, check that the driver provider is Xiaomi. If not, uninstall it and restart your computer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks but I solved it by moving the unlock folder to C:

Hey man. First of all I appreciate that you spent this much time for redmi note 9 users. I just want to know that how do I know that my device is merlin?

mirzanuman6612 said:
Hey man. First of all I appreciate that you spent this much time for redmi note 9 users. I just want to know that how do I know that my device is merlin?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, no problem!
Well, Merlin is just the codename for Redmi Note 9. So if you have a Redmi Note 9, you have a merlin.
BUT, keep in mind the Redmi Note 9 Pro, Pro Max and S are different and have their own section in the forums.

Akitake said:
Hey, no problem!
Well, Merlin is just the codename for Redmi Note 9. So if you have a Redmi Note 9, you have a merlin.
BUT, keep in mind the Redmi Note 9 Pro, Pro Max and S are different and have their own section in the forums.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, thanks but one more thing, I tried unlocking the bootloader of my phone yesterday. I went into developer options and enabled the following options:
OEM unlocking
USB debugging
I also installed all the drivers needed in my pc and went into fastboot mode in my phone. But Xiaomis mi unlock can't recognise my device. I tried 2 different usb cables but the mi unlock just says, "your phone is not connected" I hope to get a reply from you and you will probably will be able to help me out.

mirzanuman6612 said:
Well, thanks but one more thing, I tried unlocking the bootloader of my phone yesterday. I went into developer options and enabled the following options:
OEM unlocking
USB debugging
I also installed all the drivers needed in my pc and went into fastboot mode in my phone. But Xiaomis mi unlock can't recognise my device. I tried 2 different usb cables but the mi unlock just says, "your phone is not connected" I hope to get a reply from you and you will probably will be able to help me out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I could, I will actually add a section to the FAQ soon for better driver installation, it's a driver issue.

Akitake said:
Yes I could, I will actually add a section to the FAQ soon for better driver installation, it's a driver issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alrighty, thanks for your replies.

mirzanuman6612 said:
Well, thanks but one more thing, I tried unlocking the bootloader of my phone yesterday. I went into developer options and enabled the following options:
OEM unlocking
USB debugging
I also installed all the drivers needed in my pc and went into fastboot mode in my phone. But Xiaomis mi unlock can't recognise my device. I tried 2 different usb cables but the mi unlock just says, "your phone is not connected" I hope to get a reply from you and you will probably will be able to help me out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had you tried moving the unlock folder to c:/ ?

markevan12 said:
Had you tried moving the unlock folder to c:/ ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate you replying to me. But, I already fixed it by installing windows 7 I had windows 10 before and it didn't seem to work on it so I installed windows 7 and it worked flawlessly. Btw, are you a user that has installed a custom rom? And if yes, then which one and is the performance any better?
Thanks.

mirzanuman6612 said:
I appreciate you replying to me. But, I already fixed it by installing windows 7 I had windows 10 before and it didn't seem to work on it so I installed windows 7 and it worked flawlessly. Btw, are you a user that has installed a custom rom? And if yes, then which one and is the performance any better?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope I didn't YET, I'm still waiting for the unlock to complete. I did tried treble roms in my other device. It just is basically have the same performance (LOSQ) but I had heating problems in my Samsung device, I expect a normal experience with this ROMs.

(Guide) How to fix a hard bricked Redmi Note 9 (Merlin) (Hard Brick)

{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
A how-to guide of restoring a completely bricked Redmi Note 9​
Hi, In this guide, I will teach you how to fix a hard-bricked Redmi Note 9 (merlin) and bring it back to its original state.
How does a hard-bricked Redmi Note 9 look like? it's stuck in an infinite boot loop showing only the Redmi logo,
Can't access recovery with power+vol down, can't enter fastboot, can't connect it to a computer either.
If this is your phone here's how you can solve it without the need for service.
Following this guide keep in mind that everything would be erased from your phone including custom Recovery or ROM obviously. Also the bootloader would get locked again.
(I mean at this point you either have a useless brick or a working phone, you are choosing).
This is tested by me, and it works as long as you follow the steps carefully and you don't skip anything.
(I did this on Windows 10 btw)
You gonna need to download, Python and the official Xiaomi fastboot image for Redmi Note 9. Also the zip file I'm attaching bellow. the zip file contains the MTK Drivers, SP Flash Tool, and some additional scripts like MI auth bypass etc,
Get thefastboot image from here select your version (I picked the latest global) click download scroll down where it says "type:fastboot" and click "download: full Rom" the file name should look like this "merlin_images....tgz" or "merlin_global_images....tgz", etc, NOT miui_Merlin.zip,
Get python from the official website site, I tested it with 3.9.7 but the latest version should work fine. Now, you have all the necessary files to start.
Let the phone's battery die so the boot looping completely ends. (else you'll get error STATUS_EXT_RAM_EXCEPTION (0xC0050005) when using SP Flash Tool). ( I also tried it with a full battery and still worked so idk for sure how necessary this step is).
Install Python select the "add to PATH" option, you can test if it was installed correctly by opening cmd and writing "python" or "py" it should output the python version.
Extract the attached zip file and the fastboot image each into their folders.
Enter the MTK Driver folder Install the MTK Driver for MTK SP flash tool.MTK_Driver_Auto_Installer_SP_Drivers_20160804.exe, Reboot your computer.
Enter the python folder, run the "install pyusb pyserial json5.bat" when it's done close the terminal.
Enter the driver folder, this folder contains a USB to COM driver for MTK Devices, right-click the "cdc-acm.inf" click install.
Enter the libusb folder, run the libusb-win32-devel-filter-1.2.6.0.exe file, click next,next...install, when it's done it would prompt you to launch "filter installer wizard" click finish, when the wizard shows up, select "Install a device filter" it would show you your connected USB devices,
Get your phone and a USB cable, connect the USB cable to your computer,while holding the volume up button on your phone connect your phone to the computer (Based on community feedback you might need to hold both up and down volume buttons AND power button!) once your phone turns on you would see your phone listed as "MediaTek USB Port" at the libusb filter installer before your phone reboots click at the "MediaTek USB Port" and then click install if you don't do it on time, your phone will get disconnected because of rebooting, try again re-plugging your phone. once you click install, You should get a pop-up message saying "...device filter successfully installed for MediaTek USB port..." click ok and exit, then remove your phone from the computer.
Enter the bypass folder (This folder contains scripts to bypasses the Mi auth) double click the "1ST RUN THIS.bat" when it says "waiting for device" hold volume up and plug your phone into the computer (btw: You can let the button when it's recognized by the script). now most likely it would say "RuntimeError: unexpected output, expected 0xfd got 0xfe", if it does close the script and disconnect your phone, Try the "2ND RUN THIS.bat" when it shows "Waiting for device" hold volume up and connect your phone to the computer, wait till the console recognizes your phone, (At this part it might take few tries to make it work, try reconnecting your phone without holding any buttons or try holding volume down while reconnecting your phone) Once it gets recognized it would output "Found port = COM3" and Protection disabled. At this part your phone has stopped boot looping which is good but, DO NOT TOUCH YOUR PHONE, DO NOT DISCONNECT IT FROM THE COMPUTER, set your phone aside, and continue with the guide.
Enter the SP Flash Tool folder run the flash_tool.exe at the Download-Agent click choose and select the DA_6765_6785_6768_6873_6885_6853.bin file which is included in the SP flash tool folder.
At the Authentication File, click choose and select the auth_sv5.auth included in the SP flash tool folder.
At the Scatter-loading File, click choose, go to the fastboot image extraction folder (Step 4) then enter the images folder and select the MT6768_Android_scatter.txt file (Fastbootimage/images/MT6768_Android_scatter.txt)
On the drop-downbox below the "Authentication File" label change the option from Download Only to Firmware Upgrade.
At the toolbar above click Options -> Option... go to Connection check the UART option and set the Baud rate to 921600, make sure the com port option is set to com 3, then close the window.
Click Download with the green arrow, now wait till it finished flashing your phone this would take quite of time, at this part DO NOT TOUCH ANYTHING LET IT FINISH TO AVOID ANY CURROPTION ON YOUR PHONE. (If you get "Error : STATUS_STOR_LIFE_EXHAUST" go to options-> general and uncheck Storage life cycle check).
When it's done it would show you a pop-up window "Download Ok" with a green background and a checkmark, click the X to close, and now you can also close the SP Flash tool app.
Disconnect your device from your computer and press the power buttonto start your phone, connect it to a charger or back to the computer since there was no charge so it won't die suddenly now.
Your phone now should boot normally showing the MIUI logo, because its first boot it would take few minutes for the phone to boot, wait patiently and you would see the "first setup" screen.
That's it! You successfully brought back to life a hard-bricked Redmi Note 9 (merlin). A huge weight now has lifted from you hf.
Credits:
Bypass script and payload included in the attachment file is provided by (chaosmaster, xyzz) github

Very good guide, my friend.
Thank you very much for details and contribution

My device was brick yesterday, OTA update pixel plus ui rom and get boot loop at redmi logo. I do exactly your tutor but in step 11 my device is not recognized. Any solution for me? Thanks.

aries.1482 said:
My device was brick yesterday, OTA update pixel plus ui rom and get boot loop at redmi logo. I do exactly your tutor but in step 11 my device is not recognized. Any solution for me? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you did step 9 it should recognize it, try to reboot your computer if you didn't already. Also your phone would be visible only for a second before it gets disconnected so you have to act fast.

vagelis199 said:
If you did step 9 it should recognize it, try to reboot your computer if you didn't already. Also your phone would be visible only for a second before it gets disconnected so you have to act fast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your window is 32 or 64 bit, I use windows 10 64 bit and did all step, one by one but no effect.

Finally, done it. I found this:
- Hold both vol up and down when plug in so the device recognize.
- You must choose right fastboot image (origin stock rom), if not devices can't boot in to miui rom cause bootloader locked after sp flash
And at last, thank you very much, you saved my day.

aries.1482 said:
Finally, done it. I found this:
- Hold both vol up and down when plug in so the device recognize.
- You must choose right fastboot image (origin stock rom), if not devices can't boot in to miui rom cause bootloader locked after sp flash
And at last, thank you very much, you saved my day.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool ill update the guide!

Hi, My device is recognized as "Qualcom HS-USB QDLoader 9008" not the "MediaTek USB Port" on step 11 and it seems not recognized on step 12. Do you have any solutions for me. Thanks!

lionfishes said:
Hi, My device is recognized as "Qualcom HS-USB QDLoader 9008" not the "MediaTek USB Port" on step 11 and it seems not recognized on step 12. Do you have any solutions for me. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you are on a wrong guide, That's a guide for a Redmi Note 9, not the Pro version

vagelis199 said:
I think you are on a wrong guide, That's a guide for a Redmi Note 9, not the Pro version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone is Redmi Note 9. I tried to restart it yesterday and couldn't power on again. So I'm looking for some solutions to see if it can be fixed. Thanks!

lionfishes said:
My phone is Redmi Note 9. I tried to restart it yesterday and couldn't power on again. So I'm looking for some solutions to see if it can be fixed. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's no qualcomm version of Redmi Note 9

i made a mistake,when i clicked to download the fastboot at the xiaomi site,i clicked the fastboot link to download,but i didnt see that it brings you to a page where it has all the downloads again,so i stopped the operation and restarted it with the correct scatter this time.
Now im waiting to see what will happen,how long does it usually take for the spflash to finish?
Also at the bottom of spflash where it says 0b/s,emmc etc. should it stay at 0 when you start the download?
edit:
managed to make it work,one important thing for me was at the option/option,had to select com port com 3

nikosefs said:
i made a mistake,when i clicked to download the fastboot at the xiaomi site,i clicked the fastboot link to download,but i didnt see that it brings you to a page where it has all the downloads again,so i stopped the operation and restarted it with the correct scatter this time.
Now im waiting to see what will happen,how long does it usually take for the spflash to finish?
Also at the bottom of spflash where it says 0b/s,emmc etc. should it stay at 0 when you start the download?
edit:
managed to make it work,one important thing for me was at the option/option,had to select com port com 3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks i updated the guide including this

i'm having an ERROR notification : STATUS_EXT_RAM_EXCEPTION (0xC0050005) help me

Looking for some info/help if possible: apologies i'm not trying to derail your thread.
I had bricked my RN9 but managed to unbrick and have it working ok now however I am wanting to restore it/lock the bootloader to allow for using banking apps. But I am encountering an issue. I had tried using MiFlash Tool but during the flash, I get a mismatch error and it doesn't succeed in flashing the Fastboot rom.
If i was to follow your guide from step 13, would this work for me? Or which steps do I need to skip in your list?
Thank you for any advice/help
** I finally managed to get it sorted ** used the EDL flash guide and then flashed in SPFT.
[GUIDE] How To bypass authentication and flash in EDL with NO auth for FREE
Thanks to: chaosmaster / k4y0z: GitHub / XDA xyzz / xyz`: GitHub / XDA Dinolek: GitHub / XDA How to install: 1. Download the attached file: VD171_MTK-bypass.zip. 2. Extract the file and open the folder. 3. Run and install python...
forum.xda-developers.com

vagelis199 said:
Hi, In this guide, I will teach you how to fix a hard-bricked Redmi Note 9 (merlin) and bring it back to its original state.
How does a hard-bricked Redmi Note 9 look like? it's stuck in an infinite boot loop showing only the Redmi logo,
Can't access recovery with power+vol down, can't enter fastboot, can't connect it to a computer either.
If this is your phone here's how you can solve it without the need for service.
Following this guide keep in mind that everything would be erased from your phone including custom Recovery or ROM obviously. Also the bootloader would get locked again.
(I mean at this point you either have a unless brick or a working phone, you are choosing).
This is tested by me, and it works as long as you follow the steps carefully and you don't skip anything.
(I did this on Windows 10 btw)
You gonna need to download, Python and the official Xiaomi fastboot image for Redmi Note 9. Also the zip file I'm attaching bellow. the zip file contains the MTK Drivers, SP Flash Tool, and some additional scripts like MI auth bypass etc,
Get the fastboot image from here select your version (I picked the latest global) click download scroll down where it says "type:fastboot" and click "download: full Rom" the file name should look like this "merlin_images....tgz" or "merlin_global_images....tgz", etc, NOT miui_Merlin.zip,
Get python from the official website site, I tested it with 3.9.7 but the latest version should work fine. Now, you have all the necessary files to start.
Let the phone's battery die so the boot looping completely ends. (I'm not sure if this is completely necessary but that's how I did it).
Install Python select the "add to PATH" option, you can test if it was installed correctly by opening cmd and writing "python" or "py" it should output the python version.
Extract the attached zip file and the fastboot image each into their folders.
Enter the MTK Driver folder Install the MTK Driver for MTK SP flash tool. MTK_Driver_Auto_Installer_SP_Drivers_20160804.exe, Reboot your computer.
Enter the python folder, run the "install pyusb pyserial json5.bat" when it's done close the terminal.
Enter the driver folder, this folder contains a USB to COM driver for MTK Devices, right-click the "cdc-acm.inf" click install.
Enter the libusb folder, run the libusb-win32-devel-filter-1.2.6.0.exe file, click next,next...install, when it's done it would prompt you to launch "filter installer wizard" click finish, when the wizard shows up, select "Install a device filter" it would show you your connected USB devices,
Get your phone and a USB cable, connect the USB cable to your computer, while holding the volume up button on your phone connect your phone to the computer (Based on community feedback you might need to hold both up and down volume buttons) once your phone turns on you would see your phone listed as "MediaTek USB Port" at the libusb filter installer before your phone reboots click at the "MediaTek USB Port" and then click install if you don't do it on time, your phone will get disconnected because of rebooting, try again re-plugging your phone. once you click install, You should get a pop-up message saying "...device filter successfully installed for MediaTek USB port..." click ok and exit, then remove your phone from the computer.
Enter the bypass folder (This folder contains scripts to bypasses the Mi auth) double click the "1ST RUN THIS.bat" when it says "waiting for device" hold volume up and plug your phone into the computer (btw: You can let the button when it's recognized by the script). now most likely it would say "RuntimeError: unexpected output, expected 0xfd got 0xfe", if it does close the script and disconnect your phone, Try the "2ND RUN THIS.bat" when it shows "Waiting for device" hold volume up and connect your phone to the computer, wait till the console recognizes your phone, (At this part it might take few tries to make it work, try reconnecting your phone without holding any buttons or try holding volume down while reconnecting your phone) Once it gets recognized it would output "Found port = COM3" and Protection disabled. At this part your phone has stopped boot looping which is good but, DO NOT TOUCH YOUR PHONE, DO NOT DISCONNECT IT FROM THE COMPUTER, set your phone aside, and continue with the guide.
Enter the SP Flash Tool folder run the flash_tool.exe at the Download-Agent click choose and select the DA_6765_6785_6768_6873_6885_6853.bin file which is included in the SP flash tool folder.
At the Authentication File, click choose and select the auth_sv5.auth included in the SP flash tool folder.
At the Scatter-loading File, click choose, go to the fastboot image extraction folder (Step 4) then enter the images folder and select the MT6768_Android_scatter.txt file (Fastbootimage/images/MT6768_Android_scatter.txt)
On the drop-down box below the "Authentication File" label change the option from Download Only to Firmware Upgrade.
At the toolbar above click Options -> Option... go to Connection check the UART option and set the Baud rate to 921600, make sure the com port option is set to com 3, then close the window.
Click Download with the green arrow, now wait till it finished flashing your phone this would take quite of time, at this part DO NOT TOUCH ANYTHING LET IT FINISH TO AVOID ANY CURROPTION ON YOUR PHONE.
When it's done it would show you a pop-up window "Download Ok" with a green background and a checkmark, click the X to close, and now you can also close the SP Flash tool app.
Disconnect your device from your computer and press the power button to start your phone, connect it to a charger or back to the computer since there was no charge so it won't die suddenly now.
Your phone now should boot normally showing the MIUI logo, because its first boot it would take few minutes for the phone to boot, wait patiently and you would see the "first setup" screen.
That's it! You successfully brought back to life a hard-bricked Redmi Note 9 (merlin). A huge weight now has lifted from you hf.
Credits:
Bypass script and payload included in the attachment file is provided by (chaosmaster, xyzz) github
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi thanks a lot for your help. I accidentally flashed a redmi 10x miui 11, wanted to downgrade my Redmi 9 from 12.5, bad perfomance, resulting in your hard-bricked version. Flashing last fastboot version doesn't help, do i have a chance to fix it?

vagelis199 said:
Get the fastboot image from here select your version (I picked the latest global) click download scroll down where it says "type:fastboot" and click "download: full Rom" the file name should look like this "merlin_images....tgz" or "merlin_global_images....tgz", etc, NOT miui_Merlin.zip,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi and thanks for this detailed guide.
I bricked my merlin trying to root it (long history trying to get TWRP to stick)
I am now in the redmi logo loop and i am trying to follow this with great care.
however in the step above, no matter what I choose in "Yshasalger" page, i end up with a Recovery ROM and the file name contains the miui prefix as opposed to what you clearly state.
see image:
I am asking because i am scared of making more mistakes.
So i guess my question is if someone can check it happens to them (maybe the page changed since the writting of this guide)
If i should try with that ROM zip file or if there is another place i can get the proper one
I want to if possible to flash an older MIUI / Android than the latest 12 xxx / Android 11 as i find the phone to be really slow since the last OTA update.

Coroneln said:
Hi and thanks for this detailed guide.
I bricked my merlin trying to root it (long history trying to get TWRP to stick)
I am now in the redmi logo loop and i am trying to follow this with great care.
however in the step above, no matter what I choose in "Yshasalger" page, i end up with a Recovery ROM and the file name contains the miui prefix as opposed to what you clearly state.
see image:
View attachment 5476667
I am asking because i am scared of making more mistakes.
So i guess my question is if someone can check it happens to them (maybe the page changed since the writting of this guide)
If i should try with that ROM zip file or if there is another place i can get the proper one
I want to if possible to flash an older MIUI / Android than the latest 12 xxx / Android 11 as i find the phone to be really slow since the last OTA update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's because you are choosing recovery and not fastboot, choose fastboot as type scroll down it has two links for recovery and for fastboot image. Check the file name

vagelis199 said:
That's because you are choosing recovery and not fastboot, choose fastboot as type scroll down it has two links for recovery and for fastboot image. Check the file name
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i promise i am choosing fastboot but it ends up in the recovery i have tried several different versions in case it was a file wrongly indexed.

TL|DR
Python errors, step 8 and 12 on Windows 10
Go to -> "start" and type "Manage App Execution Aliases". Go to it and turn off "Python"
=========================
Now read....
Just in case someone has trouble with step: 8
Escenario: the BAT file calls `python` and in some windows 10 this will result in a message about the windows store (Even if the path is added)
Python was not found; run without arguments to install from the Microsoft Store, or disable this shortcut from Settings
but `py` works, so just edit the BAT file and replace the call for `python` with `py` it will install all the python modules with no errors.
EDIT:
This also affects step: 12
Found a solution here: https://stackoverflow.com/questions...arguments-to-install-from-the-microsoft-store
Go to -> "start" and type "Manage App Execution Aliases". Go to it and turn off "Python"
The error:
After editing the BAT file replacing `python` with `py`

(Guide) How to install a custom ROM PixelPlusUI on Redmi Note 9 (Merlin/MerlinNFC)

{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
How to install PixelPlusUI ROM on Redmi Note 9​This guide will teach you how to install PixelPlusUI into Redmi Note 9 merlin or merlin Nfc version.
This is a more detailed and straightforward guide based on the official guide of PixelPlusUI found on their Github page here.
This guide can be applied to other customs ROMs* e.g Pixel Experience etc. ​Yes, the process is exactly the same for pretty much any custom ROM you want to install to Redmi Note 9.
Installing Guide​In this guide, I will explain to you how and why we follow certain steps, so you can clearly understand every step, process, and risk of installing a custom ROM into a Redmi note 9. And avoid breaking your phone, bricking/hard bricking your phone: no operating system or a possible way to recover it, lost IMEI: can't make calls or receive.
In this guide, I will not explain to you how to unlock your bootloader! you can find plenty of guides online on how to do it and it's overall an easy job.
Before you start you will need to have an unlocked bootloader to be able to modify your system files. Once you have an unlocked phone you can start with the process of Flashing* a custom ROM.
The steps we have to follow are​--------------------------- Mandatory steps to be able to install a ROM, 1 - 7
1. Download Platform Tools*, A Custom Recovery*, and a modified VBMeta image, Mi-Flash to be able to downgrade MIUI, and the latest PixelPlusUI ROM which as of today is PixelPlusUI 3.9 for android 11 and PixelPlusUI 4.1 for Android 12.
2. Flash* recovery and VBMeta
3. Reboot into recovery
4. Backup IMEI
5. Downgrade your fastboot* into 12.0.3 version
6. Flash recovery and VBMeta
7. Reboot into recovery
--------------------------- Steps to install pretty much any ROM to Redmi Note 9, 8 - 11
8. Flash the latest firmware
9. Reboot into recovery
10. Wipe Dalvik/Art, Cache, Format Data
11. Flash PixelPlusUI ROM
---------------------------- Updating the ROM, 12 - 13
12. Update from 3.9 to 3.10.
13. Update to Android 12 with PixelPlusUI 4.1 (Optional) (Avoid for now cause it's unstable)
1. Once you have downloaded everything extract Platform Tools enter the folder where it contains all the necessary exes and run CMD inside this folder.
Turn off your phone, press the power and volume down button hold till your phone turns on, this will boot your phone into fastboot. Connect your phone via USB cable to your pc.
In CMD type "fastboot devices" without the annotations. it would output your phone right below with an ID and a fastboot label next to it.
if you are seeing "< waiting for device >" go to windows device manager, you'll find your phone in the other devices section with a yellow triangle. right-click it and click the first option to update the drivers, choose to select locally then Google => Android bootloader interface.
2. Now that we know fastboot is working and detecting our phone we have to flash the custom recovery.
copy the recovery file you downloaded, it should be an .img file, into the Platform Tools folder, in CMD now write "fastboot flash recovery recoveryname.img" without the annotations obviously, once its done, copy the vbmeta.img (might be named differently) also into the Platform Tools folder and write "fastboot --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta.img" as vbmeta.img the file you just copied. if this throws an error do "fastboot flash vbmeta vbmeta.img" instead.
3-4. Now its time to backup our IMEI, if we don't back it up now, there's a change in the next step we lose access to make or receive phone calls, in case this happens we can flash back the IMEI and get it back to work. How do we back it up. While in fastboot, remove the usb cable, and turn off your phone, hold volume up and power till your phone turns on, wait till it boots into Recovery, if you accidentally boot normally into MIUI you will lose the recovery we installed before and it would roll back to stock xiaomi recovery, then you'll have to refollow step 2. Once in recovery, enter your pin and go to Tweaks, And tap the Imei backup, wait till its done, and then go back to the main menu, connect your phone via usb to your computer. your phone would pop up as a storage device, if nothing happens its because of the drives. go to windows device manager, you'll find your phone in the other devices section with a yellow triangle. right-click it and click the first option to update the drivers, choose to select locally then Google => Android ADB interface, Once it pop up enter into it and you'll find a folder called "imeibackup" copy that folder into your computer and keep it safe. this folder includes some partitions as img files and a zip file. the zip file is basically all the files archived into a single file, to be able to flash it later from recovery,
5. Time to downgrade your MIUI fastboot version, we have to do this, because if we don't downgrade we won't be able to install a custom ROM why? well, I actually down know, but pretty much flashing does nothing in the latest MIUI version 12.5 and so on, thankfully you can downgrade the MIUI version in the Redmi Note 9. The best version so far is the MIUI 12.0.3 and you only have to flash the fastboot image, The MIUI you gonna download has to be the same region as your phone e.g my phone is EU/Global i have to download the global fastboot image. if you miss-match them you won't be able to make or receive phone calls. Visit this page Visit this page find your regions "V12.0.3.0" MIUI version click on the very right "download" button, scroll down where it says "type:fastboot" bellow there a button "Download: Full ROM" the file ends with a tgz extension, extract the archive inside you'll find a folder named something like this "merlin_id_global_images_V12.0.3.0.QJOIDXM_20200807.0000.00_10.0_global" copy that folder into the root of your hard drive, rename it into merlin_id_global_images_V12.0.3.0.QJOIDXM
Install Mi-Flash, run Mi-Flash, click select and select the folder you copied into the root of your hard drive, on the bottom right corner flash_all_lock.bat change it into flash_all.bat this will prevent the bootloader from locking again, but it might destroy your IMEI partition, but thankfully we back it up in step 3-4. On your phone, while we left in recovery go to reboot => advanced => fastboot, once you are again in fastboot, connect your phone via a usb cable in to the computer in Mi-Flash press refresh, your phone will show up in the list, if not just follow again the drivers guide at the end of step 1. in Mi-Flash click flash next to refresh and wait till its done, the result should say success. Your phone will reboot and boot back to the old v12.0.3 MIUI version.
6-7-8-9. Now that we downgraded our phone is back to stock recovery and rom. we have to re-do some steps like installing the vbmeta and custom recovery.
Follow again the step 1 and 2. flash recovery and instead this time when flashing vbmeta.img just do "fastboot flash vbmeta vbmeta.img", reboot into recovery mode, by turning off your phone,
and then holding volume up and power till it turns on, now we are back into custom recovery we just installed again, in recovery now we have to flash the latest firmware of redmi note 9, this is necessary for PixelPlusUI to work properly. Download the latest firmware for your region from here, you'll get a zip file, copy the file zip into the platform-tools folder, open cmd in this folder and this time we have to sideload the zip via ADB. in your phone go to advance and then tap on sideload, tap the checkmark to start adb, on your pc in cmd you opened before type "adb devices" if it shows your device similarly as the fastboot devices step we did before you can continue if not, do the driver guide in step 3-4, once you ready type "adb sideload firmwarefilename.zip" replace firmwarefilename.zip with the firmware you downloaded name. once the sideload is done, click the X go to reboot=>advanced=>recovery, we have to avoid booting into miui now so we don't lose our custom recovery, this will reboot your back to recovery.
10-11. Now back in recovery go to wipe and tap the bottom right button Wipe with an arrow. when it's done, go to advanced and then sideload, click the checkmark,
copy the PixelPlusUI_3.9.zip into the platform-tools folder, in cmd you have open from before do "adb sideload pixelplusUI_3.9.zip" wait till its done sideloading.
once it's done, turn off your phone, and boot it normally, you will be greeted with the P logo of pixelplusui, set up your phone normally, if you see "no sim card please insert sim" its possible you flashed the wrong MIUI region or you lost your IMEI, you can flash the IMEI zip you backed up using the recovery's option of sideload or by using the flash option. if this does not fix it, redo all the steps but this time using mi-flash flash the right MIUI fastboot region and firmware region.
12. Updating PixelPlusUI from 3.9 to 3.10 which seems to be the last version before it got discontinued, in your phone, go to settings, system, update, download the update, once its done downloading, do not install it, close settings, hold the power button tap advanced => recovery, in recovery go to flash, go back in a directory and find the folder data/System Update, inside there you'll find a zip file called PixePlusUI_v3.10_something something.zip, flash that file without wiping anything, when it's done, go back and then go to wipe, tap advanced wipe, select only Dalvik/ART Cache and Cache so you don't lose any data. reboot, Done! Never update using OTA auto-update.
13. (For now avoid cause it's unstable) Time to Upgrade to Android 12 with the official build of PixelPlusUI version 4.1
Download the build, Using ADB sideload the latest official firmware, then reboot into recovery, format data and then install the ROM, you can copy it into the device or sideload it.
Every time you want to update or re-install a ROM (Any ROM) to your Redmi Note 9 you have to refollow the following steps:​1. Flash the latest firmware, Reboot to recovery after flashing.
2. Wipe Dalvik/Art, Cache, Format Data ( Don't do it if you just upgrade )
3. Install desired ROM.
Platform tools is a suite made by google for developers, it contains adb and fastboot apps which help you with installing/wiping content and doing more development related stuff to your phone.
VBMeta.img is required to be flashed to allow installing custom recoveries if you don't flash it, it would reverse the installed recovery back to the default Xiaomi recovery.
Custom Recovery a custom recovery is basically a separate OS that you can use to factory reset your phone when you can't access the main OS, or in this case, install random tweaks and mess around with system files and partitions.
Flash or Flashing Basically installing system files, partitions etc. can be done using adb, fastboot or from recovery.
Fastboot Similarly to Recovery is an option where you can restore your phone when you cannot do using the recovery, which is why we use it to install the custom recovery in the first place.
Tips for people who want to mess around with custom ROMs.
Every time you want to re-install a ROM, you'll have to re-install the firmware, the best bet is the latest Xiaomi firmware. Also, formating data is necessary to avoid bugs.
Known Bugs:​When the fingerprint sensor is touched it won't let you gesture swipe to close an app.
When the NFC is enabled there's a tapping sound on the microphone.

It would be easier to build a custom rom than installing it.

VD171 said:
It would be easier to build a custom rom than installing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LMAO well, there's too much text to read. but it is totally worth it installing a custom ROM on redmi note 9

I see many people worried about that.
But I really prefer the stock MIUI, because it's so easier to me.
So, I can spend more time on xposed/lsposed and root/magisk.
Anyway, thank you very much for useful guide.
If somebody asks me again, I will send this guide

VD171 said:
I see many people worried about that.
But I really prefer the stock MIUI, because it's so easier to me.
So, I can spend more time on xposed/lsposed and root/magisk.
Anyway, thank you very much for useful guide.
If somebody asks me again, I will send this guide
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been developing games for android, and the redmi note 9 is my primary phone for it, because it is the middle ground of performance based on the average user. so as long the game runs well most people would be fine.
The thing is, MIUI with its ram management really makes me struggle, minimizing, and multitasking re-launches the game and System UI a lot of time freezes, nothing of those things ever happens with pixelplusUI, that's why I prefer it making me focus mostly on the GPU performance without getting bottlenecked by the heavy and nonoptimized os.

Well, well.
I understand you.
I confess that I've never played nothing at any android I've ever had, since my first android in 2014.
Really interesting to know about that.
I like the ram management because I don't have to close everything by myself.
My brother and my mother keeps everything on memory and management keeps to the system.
My brother has an iphone (sadly) and my mother has a Redmi Note 10.
I agree that the management by MIUI is excessive and should be more customizable.

Hello again, I'm considering to follow this guide.
Does this need no special setup? No SP Flash Tool? No bypass? Just flash in fastboot directly?
Considering the amount of EDL bypass tutorials out there it looks overly simple.
Can you confirm this works for Mediatek Redmi Note 9 without previous setup?
Thanks for the guide.

By the way, are we safe from ARP (Anti Rollback Protection)? I've seen both my current ROM and the target miui have an ARB version of 2 so it should be safe, but still I want to be sure.

Hello, i flashed miui 12.0.3 but it doesnt want to boot, stuck in bootloop, fortunately it boots into recovery, i wiped data and factory reset but it still doesnt want to boot, how do i fix it?

SOLVED: step 5 is faulty, you need to go to stock fastboot using vol - and power and not using the SHRP menu! i was trying to get it to work for 3 hours and i fund the solution, happy flashing!

NewtonPL said:
SOLVED: step 5 is faulty, you need to go to stock fastboot using vol - and power and not using the SHRP menu! i was trying to get it to work for 3 hours and i fund the solution, happy flashing!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nothing faulty there you did not read the whole step. It says "downgrade using MI-Flash software", not using a custom recovery. Read the step properly and completely.

0xSteeW said:
By the way, are we safe from ARP (Anti Rollback Protection)? I've seen both my current ROM and the target miui have an ARB version of 2 so it should be safe, but still I want to be sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea it's safe I've downgraded from miui 12.5.5 to miui 12.0.1 and its totally safe. You can use miflash to downgrade

0xSteeW said:
Hello again, I'm considering to follow this guide.
Does this need no special setup? No SP Flash Tool? No bypass? Just flash in fastboot directly?
Considering the amount of EDL bypass tutorials out there it looks overly simple.
Can you confirm this works for Mediatek Redmi Note 9 without previous setup?
Thanks for the guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Edl bypass is only needed of you brick your device or it doesn't boot into fastboot or for taking backup kinda stuff.
Otherwise miflash does the job

thanks.

All works, thanks for the very detailed guide!
Quick question: do I have to flash with sideload or can I flash with SHRP?

I installed miui 12.0.1. will there be any difference if I use miui12.0.1 instead of 12.0.3?

Manjotbenipal said:
I installed miui 12.0.1. will there be any difference if I use miui12.0.1 instead of 12.0.3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any ROM before 12.5 is ok

vagelis199 said:
View attachment 5566615​How to install PixelPlusUI ROM on Redmi Note 9​This guide will teach you how to install PixelPlusUI into Redmi Note 9 merlin or merlin Nfc version.
This is a more detailed and straightforward guide based on the official guide of PixelPlusUI found on their Github page here.
This guide can be applied to other customs ROMs* e.g Pixel Experience etc. ​Yes, the process is exactly the same for pretty much any custom ROM you want to install to Redmi Note 9.
Installing Guide​In this guide, I will explain to you how and why we follow certain steps, so you can clearly understand every step, process, and risk of installing a custom ROM into a Redmi note 9. And avoid breaking your phone, bricking/hard bricking your phone: no operating system or a possible way to recover it, lost IMEI: can't make calls or receive.
In this guide, I will not explain to you how to unlock your bootloader! you can find plenty of guides online on how to do it and it's overall an easy job.
Before you start you will need to have an unlocked bootloader to be able to modify your system files. Once you have an unlocked phone you can start with the process of Flashing* a custom ROM.
The steps we have to follow are​--------------------------- Mandatory steps to be able to install a ROM, 1 - 7
1. Download Platform Tools*, A Custom Recovery*, and a modified VBMeta image, Mi-Flash to be able to downgrade MIUI, and the latest PixelPlusUI ROM which as of today is PixelPlusUI 3.9 for android 11 and PixelPlusUI 4.1 for Android 12.
2. Flash* recovery and VBMeta
3. Reboot into recovery
4. Backup IMEI
5. Downgrade your fastboot* into 12.0.3 version
6. Flash recovery and VBMeta
7. Reboot into recovery
--------------------------- Steps to install pretty much any ROM to Redmi Note 9, 8 - 11
8. Flash the latest firmware
9. Reboot into recovery
10. Wipe Dalvik/Art, Cache, Format Data
11. Flash PixelPlusUI ROM
---------------------------- Updating the ROM, 12 - 13
12. Update from 3.9 to 3.10.
13. Update to Android 12 with PixelPlusUI 4.1 (Optional) (Avoid for now cause it's unstable)
1. Once you have downloaded everything extract Platform Tools enter the folder where it contains all the necessary exes and run CMD inside this folder.
Turn off your phone, press the power and volume down button hold till your phone turns on, this will boot your phone into fastboot. Connect your phone via USB cable to your pc.
In CMD type "fastboot devices" without the annotations. it would output your phone right below with an ID and a fastboot label next to it.
if you are seeing "< waiting for device >" go to windows device manager, you'll find your phone in the other devices section with a yellow triangle. right-click it and click the first option to update the drivers, choose to select locally then Google => Android bootloader interface.
2. Now that we know fastboot is working and detecting our phone we have to flash the custom recovery.
copy the recovery file you downloaded, it should be an .img file, into the Platform Tools folder, in CMD now write "fastboot flash recovery recoveryname.img" without the annotations obviously, once its done, copy the vbmeta.img (might be named differently) also into the Platform Tools folder and write "fastboot --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta.img" as vbmeta.img the file you just copied. if this throws an error do "fastboot flash vbmeta vbmeta.img" instead.
3-4. Now its time to backup our IMEI, if we don't back it up now, there's a change in the next step we lose access to make or receive phone calls, in case this happens we can flash back the IMEI and get it back to work. How do we back it up. While in fastboot, remove the usb cable, and turn off your phone, hold volume up and power till your phone turns on, wait till it boots into Recovery, if you accidentally boot normally into MIUI you will lose the recovery we installed before and it would roll back to stock xiaomi recovery, then you'll have to refollow step 2. Once in recovery, enter your pin and go to Tweaks, And tap the Imei backup, wait till its done, and then go back to the main menu, connect your phone via usb to your computer. your phone would pop up as a storage device, if nothing happens its because of the drives. go to windows device manager, you'll find your phone in the other devices section with a yellow triangle. right-click it and click the first option to update the drivers, choose to select locally then Google => Android ADB interface, Once it pop up enter into it and you'll find a folder called "imeibackup" copy that folder into your computer and keep it safe. this folder includes some partitions as img files and a zip file. the zip file is basically all the files archived into a single file, to be able to flash it later from recovery,
5. Time to downgrade your MIUI fastboot version, we have to do this, because if we don't downgrade we won't be able to install a custom ROM why? well, I actually down know, but pretty much flashing does nothing in the latest MIUI version 12.5 and so on, thankfully you can downgrade the MIUI version in the Redmi Note 9. The best version so far is the MIUI 12.0.3 and you only have to flash the fastboot image, The MIUI you gonna download has to be the same region as your phone e.g my phone is EU/Global i have to download the global fastboot image. if you miss-match them you won't be able to make or receive phone calls. Visit this page Visit this page find your regions "V12.0.3.0" MIUI version click on the very right "download" button, scroll down where it says "type:fastboot" bellow there a button "Download: Full ROM" the file ends with a tgz extension, extract the archive inside you'll find a folder named something like this "merlin_id_global_images_V12.0.3.0.QJOIDXM_20200807.0000.00_10.0_global" copy that folder into the root of your hard drive, rename it into merlin_id_global_images_V12.0.3.0.QJOIDXM
Install Mi-Flash, run Mi-Flash, click select and select the folder you copied into the root of your hard drive, on the bottom right corner flash_all_lock.bat change it into flash_all.bat this will prevent the bootloader from locking again, but it might destroy your IMEI partition, but thankfully we back it up in step 3-4. On your phone, while we left in recovery go to reboot => advanced => fastboot, once you are again in fastboot, connect your phone via a usb cable in to the computer in Mi-Flash press refresh, your phone will show up in the list, if not just follow again the drivers guide at the end of step 1. in Mi-Flash click flash next to refresh and wait till its done, the result should say success. Your phone will reboot and boot back to the old v12.0.3 MIUI version.
6-7-8-9. Now that we downgraded our phone is back to stock recovery and rom. we have to re-do some steps like installing the vbmeta and custom recovery.
Follow again the step 1 and 2. flash recovery and instead this time when flashing vbmeta.img just do "fastboot flash vbmeta vbmeta.img", reboot into recovery mode, by turning off your phone,
and then holding volume up and power till it turns on, now we are back into custom recovery we just installed again, in recovery now we have to flash the latest firmware of redmi note 9, this is necessary for PixelPlusUI to work properly. Download the latest firmware for your region from here, you'll get a zip file, copy the file zip into the platform-tools folder, open cmd in this folder and this time we have to sideload the zip via ADB. in your phone go to advance and then tap on sideload, tap the checkmark to start adb, on your pc in cmd you opened before type "adb devices" if it shows your device similarly as the fastboot devices step we did before you can continue if not, do the driver guide in step 3-4, once you ready type "adb sideload firmwarefilename.zip" replace firmwarefilename.zip with the firmware you downloaded name. once the sideload is done, click the X go to reboot=>advanced=>recovery, we have to avoid booting into miui now so we don't lose our custom recovery, this will reboot your back to recovery.
10-11. Now back in recovery go to wipe and tap the bottom right button Wipe with an arrow. when it's done, go to advanced and then sideload, click the checkmark,
copy the PixelPlusUI_3.9.zip into the platform-tools folder, in cmd you have open from before do "adb sideload pixelplusUI_3.9.zip" wait till its done sideloading.
once it's done, turn off your phone, and boot it normally, you will be greeted with the P logo of pixelplusui, set up your phone normally, if you see "no sim card please insert sim" its possible you flashed the wrong MIUI region or you lost your IMEI, you can flash the IMEI zip you backed up using the recovery's option of sideload or by using the flash option. if this does not fix it, redo all the steps but this time using mi-flash flash the right MIUI fastboot region and firmware region.
12. Updating PixelPlusUI from 3.9 to 3.10 which seems to be the last version before it got discontinued, in your phone, go to settings, system, update, download the update, once its done downloading, do not install it, close settings, hold the power button tap advanced => recovery, in recovery go to flash, go back in a directory and find the folder data/System Update, inside there you'll find a zip file called PixePlusUI_v3.10_something something.zip, flash that file without wiping anything, when it's done, go back and then go to wipe, tap advanced wipe, select only Dalvik/ART Cache and Cache so you don't lose any data. reboot, Done! Never update using OTA auto-update.
13. (For now avoid cause it's unstable) Time to Upgrade to Android 12 with the official build of PixelPlusUI version 4.1
Download the build, Using ADB sideload the latest official firmware, then reboot into recovery, format data and then install the ROM, you can copy it into the device or sideload it.
Every time you want to update or re-install a ROM (Any ROM) to your Redmi Note 9 you have to refollow the following steps:​1. Flash the latest firmware, Reboot to recovery after flashing.
2. Wipe Dalvik/Art, Cache, Format Data ( Don't do it if you just upgrade )
3. Install desired ROM.
Platform tools is a suite made by google for developers, it contains adb and fastboot apps which help you with installing/wiping content and doing more development related stuff to your phone.
VBMeta.img is required to be flashed to allow installing custom recoveries if you don't flash it, it would reverse the installed recovery back to the default Xiaomi recovery.
Custom Recovery a custom recovery is basically a separate OS that you can use to factory reset your phone when you can't access the main OS, or in this case, install random tweaks and mess around with system files and partitions.
Flash or Flashing Basically installing system files, partitions etc. can be done using adb, fastboot or from recovery.
Fastboot Similarly to Recovery is an option where you can restore your phone when you cannot do using the recovery, which is why we use it to install the custom recovery in the first place.
Tips for people who want to mess around with custom ROMs.
Every time you want to re-install a ROM, you'll have to re-install the firmware, the best bet is the latest Xiaomi firmware. Also, formating data is necessary to avoid bugs.
Known Bugs:​When the fingerprint sensor is touched it won't let you gesture swipe to close an app.
When the NFC is enabled there's a tapping sound on the microphone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on miui12.0.1 and want to install pixel experience android 10 with shrp.
Do I need to flash the vendor if I don't want to install pixel experience via sideload and is it necessary to disable avb 2.0 after flashing vendor and custom rom?

I cant boot into the recovery mentioned in this step, what do I do?
“6-7-8-9. Now that we downgraded our phone is back to stock recovery and rom. we have to re-do some steps like installing the vbmeta and custom recovery.
Follow again the step 1 and 2. flash recovery and instead this time when flashing vbmeta.img just do “fastboot flash vbmeta vbmeta.img”, reboot into recovery mode, by turning off your phone,“

how long it take to flash redmi note 9? already 1000 seconds passed and its still flashing