Popular Xiaomi Phones to Lose Software Updates Soon: What Users Need to Know

Many Xiaomi users face an important update regarding device support starting 2026. Several popular Xiaomi models will no longer receive official system updates or security patches. This change impacts millions of users who rely on these devices daily.

Xiaomi will officially end software support for key models such as Xiaomi 12 series, Redmi Note 12 series, and POCO F5 beginning in 2026. The cessation of updates includes both feature upgrades and critical security patches. Users must prepare for potential security risks associated with outdated software.

Technical Reasons Behind Update End-of-Life

Smartphone manufacturers like Xiaomi implement software support cycles for efficiency. Older devices become increasingly difficult to maintain compatibility with new operating systems. The evolving hardware architectures make it costly to optimize latest features and security improvements for legacy models.

Supporting new AI capabilities and advanced security fixes often requires modern chipsets. Devices launched around 2022 and 2023 now approach the end of their typical three to four-year support window. Xiaomi’s policy reflects this industry-standard lifecycle to prioritize development resources on newer phones.

Models Affected by 2026 Update Termination

The following Xiaomi and POCO models will cease to receive updates in 2026:

  1. Xiaomi 12 and Xiaomi 12 Pro
  2. Redmi Note 12 (regular, Pro, and Pro Plus)
  3. POCO F5

These are among the company’s best-selling devices in Indonesia and other markets. Despite still delivering strong performance, their official software maintenance will stop. Xiaomi 12 series phones, launched in early 2022, will no longer get the latest MIUI versions or security patches after support ends.

Similarly, POCO F5, released in 2023 with a three-year update cycle, will also be affected. The Redmi Note 12 variants, popular for affordable features and sales volume, join the End-of-Life list as well.

Security Risks Without Updates

Ceasing software updates does not mean the device will immediately fail. Basic functions like calls and SMS will continue. However, stopping security patches leaves devices vulnerable to cyber threats. New vulnerabilities discovered by hackers will remain unpatched, increasing the risk of data breaches.

This is especially critical for users conducting mobile banking, online payments, or accessing sensitive corporate information. Apps may also gradually lose compatibility with older operating systems. Financial applications and digital wallets can stop working properly over time, compromising usability and security.

Recommendations for Users

Users of affected Xiaomi phones should consider the following actions:

  1. Avoid using End-of-Life devices for banking or secure transactions.
  2. Move sensitive activities to a smartphone with active updates.
  3. Restrict app permissions and refrain from installing apps outside official stores.
  4. Regularly back up important data in case of device compromise.
  5. Start planning device upgrades early in 2026 to maintain security.

Although these phones remain functional for simple tasks, treating them as a primary device for confidential activities poses risks. Proactive migration to supported models maintains digital safety and access to new features.

As Xiaomi transitions away from older models, users must stay informed about update policies and their implications. Understanding this lifecycle helps prevent security lapses caused by outdated software. The end of official updates for Xiaomi’s popular handsets marks a pivotal moment for many users to reconsider their device strategy going forward.

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