Is the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 Upgradable?
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is a highly popular Android smartphone, praised for its affordability and performance. Many users are curious about whether this device can be upgraded to newer software versions. This comprehensive article will explore the upgrade options for the Redmi Note 4, including official builds and custom ROMs.
Upgradability Options
The Redmi Note 4 is upgradable to the Android Nougat 7.0 operating system based on MIUI 9. To ensure your phone is ready for the upgrade, it's recommended to first install MIUI 9. This upgrade process can be done either through official channels or by downloading and installing a custom ROM, depending on your needs.
Official MIUI Update
For those seeking a seamless and official upgrade experience, Xiaomi has confirmed that the Redmi Note 4 is upgradable to Android Nougat. However, an official update is currently in the works. To prepare for the official upgrade, you need to upgrade your phone to MIUI 9. Once MIUI 9 is installed, you can expect the official Android Nougat update to follow shortly.
Custom ROMs for Urgency
For users who need the latest updates more urgently, there are several custom ROMs available that bring the latest Android features to the Redmi Note 4. Custom ROMs, such as LineageOS or AOKP, can significantly enhance your phone's performance, fix bugs, and add new functionalities. These ROMs are community-driven and require some technical knowledge to install and may void your warranty.
Lost VoLTE Functionality
Some users of the Redmi Note 4 experienced the loss of VoLTE (Voice over LTE) functionality after upgrading to Android 7. This issue is particular to certain carriers such as T-Mobile in the USA. If you encounter the same issue, you may want to contact your carrier for assistance, as this can be a carrier-dependent problem rather than a device issue.
MIUI Importance Over Android Version
While the Android version is crucial for determining the device's capabilities and security updates, MIUI plays a significant role in the overall user experience. MIUI improves the visual and functional aspects of the smartphone, making it more user-friendly and efficient. Therefore, even if a newer Android version is not immediately available, upgrading to the latest MIUI version can significantly enhance your phone's performance.
Conclusion
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is not only upgradable to the latest Android Nougat based on MIUI 9, but it also offers the flexibility to choose between official updates or custom ROMs. Whether you prioritize stability and official support or the latest features and performance, there are upgrade options available to suit your needs. To fully benefit from these upgrades and enhancements, ensure that your phone is regularly maintained and updated.