What's up with that vendor or firmware thingy? - Xiaomi Mi 8 Questions & Answers

I've been using custom Roms for years now and I was just wiping everything including system and all, and the flashed rom was working excellently. I just switched to this device a month ago and this vendor and firmware thing is giving me anxiety. Can someone explain why do I need them and why do I have to install them seperate from the Rom?

If you have a genuine Global device and live outside china you pretty much have nothing to worry about. Just create a Mi account and sign in to sync your data, then you can use Mi flash tool to unlock the bootloader.
If you want to keep using Miui and simply want root. You can build your own custom rom with your criteria here:
Its automated, and very easy. Plus, you can create a rom, removing things that you don't want and choose built in root.
Next, use ADB to flash the rom ( do not use TWRP for flashing stock roms) You can also use the all in one tool, or mi flash.
No a big deal, once you understand the basics.

tsongming said:
If you have a genuine Global device and live outside china you pretty much have nothing to worry about. Just create a Mi account and sign in to sync your data, then you can use Mi flash tool to unlock the bootloader.
If you want to keep using Miui and simply want root. You can build your own custom rom with your criteria here:
Its automated, and very easy. Plus, you can create a rom, removing things that you don't want and choose built in root.
Next, use ADB to flash the rom ( do not use TWRP for flashing stock roms) You can also use the all in one tool, or mi flash.
No a big deal, once you understand the basics.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your response but it's not exactly answering my question. Why do I need to keep the vendor partition? Can't you just include it in the ROM for way easier and simple installation?

Related

First Things To Do After Getting My Mi Mix?

Just found out that I have a Mi Mix waiting for me when I get home. I've made a checklist of what I want to do to it to get it setup for my use. I wanted to know if anyone had anything to add or has done any of what I'm planning on.
Unlock Bootloader
This should be relatively simple. I already have my unlock permission and will be using the directions from here: http://en.miui.com/thread-202290-1-1.html
As far as I can tell by reading that thread, I do not need to install the developer ROM first. Is this correct?
I will also follow the top reply to this thread which mentions linking your device to your Mi account before unlocking to prevent errors: https://m.reddit.com/r/Xiaomi/comments/5co8t1/mi_unlock_approval/​
Install TWRP
My plan is to follow these instructions: http://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-mix/development/recovery-official-twrp-xiaomi-mi-mix-t3498960
This is where I start having questions. I've been out of the rooting and ROMing game for a couple of years. Does anyone recommend rooting with anything other than SuperSU? I'm reading that it was bought by a Chinese company and shouldn't be trusted. I've also read that using Magisk you can have root that is easily turned off. I'll admit I'm pretty lost at the moment when it comes to what Magisk does and how to use it. But if it is the recommended way of doing things I will do the research to learn it.​
Flash The EU ROM
I think my plan is to flash this EU ROM which debloats everything and seems to come with gapps and a lot of other nice optimizations: https://xiaomi.eu/community/threads/6-11-10.36056/
My first question is has anyone tried this?
My second question is will I need to reinstall TWRP and re-root? I think I will have to re-TWRP because on the TWRP page there is one version for stock and one for the EU version. I will be on stock first and I can't flash EU until after I flash TWRP. So I think the procedure will have to be:
Flash stock TWRP
Flash EU ROM
Flash EU TWRP
Re-Root?
Turn Off All Battery Optimizations
Don't have a guide for this yet but I'm guessing it's not hard to find. Feel free to reply with one if you have one.​
Personalize
Launchers/Themes/Icon Packs/etc. Don't need suggestions here since I already know what I have in mind.​
Anything else?
The only other thing I can think of that I might want to install is Xposed. I've never used it and don't know how to install it but I'll learn if I can be convinced that it's something I want.
What else am I missing?​
I think right now the biggest thing I'm curious about is if anyone has used the EU ROM and what the procedure is if you use that ROM since there are 2 different versions of TWRP for the Mi Mix. But any other suggestions on what to do with the initial setup or how to make my experience better are welcome. I'd also love to hear about any "gotchas" that aren't mentioned in the guides from people who have actually done it.
Well I took the plunge without waiting for feedback and for anyone who is interested, I'll answer my own questions. Read the posts that I linked in the OP to understand what I'm doing below. I will not cover how to get unlock permission as this has been covered elsewhere.
Unlock Bootloader
As far as I can tell by reading that thread, I do not need to install the developer ROM first. Is this correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not correct. You must install the Dev ROM and connect to WiFi and follow the steps to enable Developer options and login to your Mi account in developer options.​
Install TWRP
Before installing TWRP you must update back to the stable ROM. The non-EU version of TWRP will not work with the Dev ROM as of this posting. You can update to the stable ROM using the same steps as updating to the developer ROM. In the TWRP install guide I linked above, I stopped right after step 6 and continued below.​
Flash the EU ROM
Instead of flashing SuperSU after installing TWRP, I copied over the EU ROM linked above and flashed that. Then I followed the instructions starting from step 3 of this post to flash SuperSU, Magisk, and suhide: https://www.reddit.com/r/pokemongod...k_v7_systemless_xposed_v866_released/d8d7ziw/
The only change I made is that in between steps 4 and 5, I flashed the EU version of TWRP before continuing because otherwise the touchscreen would not work in TWRP. I used the most recent versions for the SuperSU, Magisk, and suhide and I did not flash Xposed yet but I believe I can do that in the future if I want to.​
That's where I'm at now. The rest of my checklist was mostly personal preference so I won't go into that. Hope this helps.
@chimera533
THX for taking the plunge & sharing your results with us.
I'm sure I'll be doing the same once mine arrives, hope you don't mind if I look this way if I have any questions regarding TWRP/Root/etc.....
Thank you for posting this, this is the exact list of what I will be doing when my Mi Mix comes in the mail (C'mon Ibuygou).
I couldn't seem to find a EU rom for Mi mix though it is listed in the thread as a supported drive. Will you please drop me the link to download? Thank you.
jim380 said:
I couldn't seem to find a EU rom for Mi mix though it is listed in the thread as a supported drive. Will you please drop me the link to download? Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I got mine from here: https://megadysk.pl/f/6.11.10
Just scroll down to the Mi Mix one.
There are 3 repositories to the 6.11.10 weekly ROMs at the top of the page here: https://xiaomi.eu/community/threads/6-11-10.36056/
As far as I know there are no stable EU builds for the Mi Mix probably because it's so new.
Also I believe the weekly updates show up here: https://xiaomi.eu/community/forums/miui-weekly-rom-releases.103/
The Mi Mix was skipped for 6.11.17 as evidenced by the note at the top of the 6.11.17 thread.
That's about all I know. I highly recommend reading all or most of every link I posted here. I'll confess that if I had, I would've known things like having to flash back to stable before TWRP-ing as well as some other things.
It would be nice if you did an edit of your original post, rather than a 'by the way' post below it. It would be much easier to follow the instructions.
I've installed TWRP on multiple phones. The dm-verity stuff is new to me (A xiaomi/MIUI thing I guess),
so the sequence appears to be:
install Official MIUI China developer ROM
<unlock>
install Official stable rom
install Official (Non-EU) TWRP (requires stable)
copy/install EU ROM after step 6 (aka before exiting TWRP)
< Do you reboot now and go back into fastload now? or stay inside TWRP? >
Install EU TWRP
install supersu (again, before you exit TWRP?)
Install Magisk, suhide?
Apologies but I'm away from home at the moment. I'll update the OP with more detail when I have a bit more time. But I'll give you some quick answers below.
install Official MIUI China developer ROM
Remember to log in to your Mi account in the developer options
<unlock>
install Official stable rom
install Official (Non-EU) TWRP (requires stable)
copy/install EU ROM after step 6 (aka before exiting TWRP)
While still in TWRP, install SuperSU in systemless mode.
Boot to system once
Boot back to fastboot and install EU TWRP
Boot to TWRP and install Magisk, suhide
Boot to system and install magisk manager
Got the Mi Mix 128GB overpriced in Thailand, but without any waiting time.
Love your early thread, very helpful.
I also want to get twrp, suhide, magisk and xposed, but I like to stay on the Chinese Dev or official ROM, not xiaomi.eu, because I like the paid themes which are only available on official ROMs.
I've got a MIUI developer account for 4 years, so I can unlock the device directly, being on stable ROM.
Now the steps are a bit unclear for me. Do I understand them correctly?
1. Unlock bootloader
Download and install the developer rom: http://en.miui.com/download-317.html
Create/Login with your MI Account on the device.
Apply for unlocking the bootloader here: http://en.miui.com/unlock/
Install stable ROM if desired
2. Install official TWRP (NON-EU)
Boot into fastboot mode by turning off your device then pressing volume up and power button
Install Minimal ADB and Fastboot on your PC: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2317790
Download the correct TWRP image file: https://dl.twrp.me/lithium/twrp-3.0.2-0-lithium.img.html
Copy the twrp file to where minimal adb and fastboot has been installed and rename the twrp file to twrp.img
Open fastboot on your computer and type:
Code:
fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
Code:
fastboot reboot
3. Install SuperSU in systemless mode
Download newest SuperSU: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=eu.chainfire.supersu / http://download.chainfire.eu/1013/SuperSU/SR4-SuperSU-v2.78-SR4-20161115184928.zip
In ADB shell or TWRP shell, type
Code:
echo SYSTEMLESS=true > /data/.supersu
if you don't already have this file to configure SuperSU to install in systemless mode.
Flash SuperSU.
4. Boot to system
5. Boot into TWRP, install Magisk, suhide, Xposed
suhide: http://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/suhide-t3450396
systemless xposed 86.2: http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=3897543&d=1475913773
magisk: http://tiny.cc/latestmagisk
6. Boot to system and install Magistk Manager
magisk manager: http://tiny.cc/latestmanager
7. Install XPosed
chimera533 said:
I think I got mine from here: https://megadysk.pl/f/6.11.10
Just scroll down to the Mi Mix one.
There are 3 repositories to the 6.11.10 weekly ROMs at the top of the page here: https://xiaomi.eu/community/threads/6-11-10.36056/
As far as I know there are no stable EU builds for the Mi Mix probably because it's so new.
Also I believe the weekly updates show up here: https://xiaomi.eu/community/forums/miui-weekly-rom-releases.103/
The Mi Mix was skipped for 6.11.17 as evidenced by the note at the top of the 6.11.17 thread.
That's about all I know. I highly recommend reading all or most of every link I posted here. I'll confess that if I had, I would've known things like having to flash back to stable before TWRP-ing as well as some other things.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for your help. I installed the ROM and have had it running for 2 days now. Coming from a HTC 10 (custom ROMed and everything), I;m really not digging MIUI on this phone. Lags so much it's literally driving me crazy. My 2 yrs old LG G2, which also has amazing screen-to-body ratio btw, runs circle around this phone. Really disappointed about this phone due to the software performance issues.
jim380 said:
Thank you so much for your help. I installed the ROM and have had it running for 2 days now. Coming from a HTC 10 (custom ROMed and everything), I;m really not digging MIUI on this phone. Lags so much it's literally driving me crazy. My 2 yrs old LG G2, which also has amazing screen-to-body ratio btw, runs circle around this phone. Really disappointed about this phone due to the software performance issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't experience any lags on the original ROM.
From my experience those micro-lags and performance issuese showed up on various devices in my Android past whenever something was wrong with the ROM. A clean flash mostly helped solve the problem.
I'm currently on the original Chinese stable with SuperSu and TWRP. It's blazing fast. What's the reason to flash the xiaomi.eu rom?
underlines said:
I don't experience any lags on the original ROM.
From my experience those micro-lags and performance issuese showed up on various devices in my Android past whenever something was wrong with the ROM. A clean flash mostly helped solve the problem.
I'm currently on the original Chinese stable with SuperSu and TWRP. It's blazing fast. What's the reason to flash the xiaomi.eu rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had a nightmare trying to get to the EU Rom yesterday, I was mostly successful, however after a reboot i'd lose Touch in both TWRP and System. Thanks to this post from Chimera533 I was finally able to do it!
Anyway the main reason for the EU ROM is to get rid of all the Bloat and Chinese throughout the ROM that you cannot get rid of. It also has Google Services baked in properly so everything works correctly.
I also had a few other little niggles while on the Chinese ROM :-
Purchases from Google Play Movies wouldn't work
No Smart Lock while connected to Android Wear
No way to replace BAIDU and set Google as the search
So far i'm loving the EU Rom, i've not seen any lag at all while using it and pretty much everything seems to work exactly as it should - it has enhanced the MIX experience so much for me - love this thing!
Guys, how do I disable all battery saving optimizations / memory management optimzations? My background apps keep shutting automatically off after a while.
I'm on the default ROM without root (still waiting for developer approval)...
yakuzlin said:
Guys, how do I disable all battery saving optimizations / memory management optimzations? My background apps keep shutting automatically off after a while.
I'm on the default ROM without root (still waiting for developer approval)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to the battery section & have a look around, you should find several settings for battery management.
You're gonna need root & an app such as Titanium Backup Pro, or, SD Maid Pro to disable a lot of the MIUI & Cheetah Mobile applications.
Fine tuning on a per app basis isn't enough (do not optimize battery savings for the apps you want to work properly, notifications, messaging, etc) .....
I highly recommend flashing the EU ROM, it seems to have better memory management than the Global ROM, but, you'll still need to disable a lot of the MIUI apps & all of the Cheetah Mobile s***ware to get memory management more to what you're used to experiencing.
One other item, go to Developer Options & disable MIUI Optimization, it should be the last item or close to it....

TWRP, Root, CN vs EU...Confusion!

OK, I need some clarification please. I just ordered the phone on Swappa and will have it soon but I would like to have a plan in place for reaching my goal...A rooted phone with TWRP (don't know about what ROM yet)
I'm not sure what software will be on this phone when I get it (EU or Chinese stock/dev) but does that make a difference when attempting to put TWRP on the phone? Also, are there still 2 separate versions or is there just one now?
Also in regards to the initial root and TWRP procedure is it not possible to have SU zip on your phone beforehand or does it have to be transferred from your computer while in TWRP? Finally, the verity no opt encrypt zip must be flashed regardless of whether you are rooting or not? Many thanks for any and all help!
SantinoInc said:
I'm not sure what software will be on this phone when I get it (EU or Chinese stock/dev) but does that make a difference when attempting to put TWRP on the phone? Also, are there still 2 separate versions or is there just one now?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Presently if you read max of the posts in major of the forums, you will find out there are three versions of ROM majorly (removing Chinese dev from the list as many don't seem to be on this) - If you are buying the phone from a reseller and not directly from xiaomi, mostly you will end up with Vendor ROM
1) Vendor ROM global (8.08.0 something version) which comes with very less bloatware and Google play services. Sometimes people said their bootloader was unlocked and for some its not. (mine was locked, so had to apply for unlock - It took 3 days to get the approval).
PLEASE NOTE THAT MANY TIMES THIS VENDOR ROM HAS A "NOTES APP" WITH TROJAN ON IT. MALWARE BYTES DETECTS THIS. HENCE I DECIDED TO GET OFF IT.
2) Chinese stable ROM - The official miui ROM. It has OTA updates but comes with bloatware and quite cumbersome to use for a non Chinese person like me or thats what I felt. If you really want to use Chinese stable (and still need google apps) there is a guide which is available some where in one of the forums, right now can't get hold of it somehow.
3) EU ROM (weekly updates - I believe to be done manually) - This one is so far the best I have used and very less bloatware (there is "Qunar travel" and one Chinese app that came with it. I simply uninstalled them blindly). Comes with google play services and you can download the rest from google store.
My journey so far is Vendor ROM --> Chinese Stable --> EU ROM (Non-root)
Why i didn't go directly from Vendor ROM to EU ROM is because
1) some of the users had issues with TWRP's touch non-responsiveness.
2) I want to see what is there on Chinese Stable before going to EU ROM, so that I can do a comparison.
For Vendor ROM to Chinese Stable use the guide below (by @satishp)
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-mix/how-to/kindly-help-flashing-to-china-stable-t3528652
For Chinese Stable (or if you want to try from Vendor ROM directly to EU ROM) to EU ROM use the guide below (by @underlines)
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-mix/how-to/guide-flash-global-china-rom-root-gapps-t3510592
Following the steps exactly in the above two guides, I was able to install EU ROM without any issues.
SantinoInc said:
Also in regards to the initial root and TWRP procedure is it not possible to have SU zip on your phone beforehand or does it have to be transferred from your computer while in TWRP?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you enable developer options on your phone and enable USB debugging, then I believe when you connect your phone to laptop/desktop it should connect using MTP and should be seen as device. So I guess you can copy the zip before hand on to the phone.
SantinoInc said:
Finally, the verity no opt encrypt zip must be flashed regardless of whether you are rooting or not? Many thanks for any and all help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All the guides mention that whenever you want to install the EU ROM without root, the dm-verity is compulsory to flash before reboot.
Hope this helps!!. Enjoy your MIX.
thehearty said:
Presently if you read max of the posts in major of the forums, you will find out there are three versions of ROM majorly (removing Chinese dev from the list as many don't seem to be on this) - If you are buying the phone from a reseller and not directly from xiaomi, mostly you will end up with Vendor ROM
1) Vendor ROM global (8.08.0 something version) which comes with very less bloatware and Google play services. Sometimes people said their bootloader was unlocked and for some its not. (mine was locked, so had to apply for unlock - It took 3 days to get the approval).
PLEASE NOTE THAT MANY TIMES THIS VENDOR ROM HAS A "NOTES APP" WITH TROJAN ON IT. MALWARE BYTES DETECTS THIS. HENCE I DECIDED TO GET OFF IT.
2) Chinese stable ROM - The official miui ROM. It has OTA updates but comes with bloatware and quite cumbersome to use for a non Chinese person like me or thats what I felt. If you really want to use Chinese stable (and still need google apps) there is a guide which is available some where in one of the forums, right now can't get hold of it somehow.
3) EU ROM (weekly updates - I believe to be done manually) - This one is so far the best I have used and very less bloatware (there is "Qunar travel" and one Chinese app that came with it. I simply uninstalled them blindly). Comes with google play services and you can download the rest from google store.
My journey so far is Vendor ROM --> Chinese Stable --> EU ROM (Non-root)
Why i didn't go directly from Vendor ROM to EU ROM is because
1) some of the users had issues with TWRP's touch non-responsiveness.
2) I want to see what is there on Chinese Stable before going to EU ROM, so that I can do a comparison.
For Vendor ROM to Chinese Stable use the guide below (by @satishp)
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-mix/how-to/kindly-help-flashing-to-china-stable-t3528652
For Chinese Stable (or if you want to try from Vendor ROM directly to EU ROM) to EU ROM use the guide below (by @underlines)
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-mix/how-to/guide-flash-global-china-rom-root-gapps-t3510592
Following the steps exactly in the above two guides, I was able to install EU ROM without any issues.
When you enable developer options on your phone and enable USB debugging, then I believe when you connect your phone to laptop/desktop it should connect using MTP and should be seen as device. So I guess you can copy the zip before hand on to the phone.
All the guides mention that whenever you want to install the EU ROM with/without root, the dm-verity is compulsory to flash before reboot.
Hope this helps!!. Enjoy your MIX.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, thank you so much for that very thorough answer! I will be getting the phone tomorrow and my goal will be to get the EU Rom on my phone with TWRP and Xposed.
One more small question. So if I happen to get the touch screen freeze (in TWRP or after system reboot) how do you recover from this situation?
SantinoInc said:
One more small question. So if I happen to get the touch screen freeze (in TWRP or after system reboot) how do you recover from this situation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you have to go to Chinese Stable then using MiFlash or install one more version of TWRP which is compatible with Chinese ROM and then other steps. (one of the guides mentions these too)
But my suggestion is simply follow the steps in both the guides, go to chinese stable and then to EU ROM. Its worth the 15 min extra effort as surely i can tell this will not have problems and I believe you can definitely got to root/xposed too finally.
There is a small typo in my previous answer (I corrected it now). Sincere apologies for the same.
Dm-verity is not needed if you are going to root. If you flash to EU ROM and don't want root, then install dm-verity. This is as per the guide mentioned in my last answer.
Hope this helps.

From custom to stock

I've unlocked my phone, installed twrp recovery and lineage os 14 latest build.
Now I'm selling my phone and I want to return to stock mode, so latest global stable and stock recovery.
Is it possible? And how can I do?
Inviato dal mio MI MIX utilizzando Tapatalk
Of course you can. Download the fastboot ROM (Stock Global or Chinese), decompress it into your C: drive, download and run the MiFlash tool, select the path where you have placed the decompressed stock ROM, select the ''Clean All' option from the MiFlash tool and press 'Flash'. You should be back to complete stock and ready to sell off your phone.
mouse100 said:
I've unlocked my phone, installed twrp recovery and lineage os 14 latest build.
Now I'm selling my phone and I want to return to stock mode, so latest global stable and stock recovery.
Is it possible? And how can I do?
Inviato dal mio MI MIX utilizzando Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But be sure to uncheck relock bootloader.
Hey guy's,
I'm late joining the Mi Mix party - I've been using android since the original Samsung Galaxy S including Galaxy Notes and Nexus devices.
Since those early days when everything had to be done without toolkits I've also got myself employed and have just not had the time I once had due to no longer living alone.
Because this phone has been around a while I've noticed that a lot of the guides are a bit confusing/conflicting so just wanted to ask a few questions..
I am on MIUI Global 9.2 Stable (after I got the phone I did an OTA update.)
Here's what I want to do ....
Unlock the bootloader
Root
Install TWRP
and finally after that pick out and install a Rom.
So firstly do I have to install drivers before doing anything else. And on one guide it had 2 sets of drivers, Qualcomm & USB ?
Then do I just download adb & fastboot tool
and then the Mi Flash Tool and that's it ?
Source:
https://www.getdroidtips.com/unlock-bootloader-mi-mix/
or is there a newer more detailed guide with newer files ?
Just to add that I was going to try and unlock the bootloader via the official route but got a little confused when setting up the Mi/MIUI accounts before doing some more research and realizing there's an unofficial way.
The last time I used adb/fastboot it was a huge package compared to the now couple of files.
Also is there anything I need to do when first installing TWRP regarding choosing the partition options.
Thanks for reading and any response - Ps I'm in UK and have 2 Sims in phone and do I need to worry about the recovery phone number/details.
Thanks in advance.
BLADESMAN1889 said:
Hey guy's,
I'm late joining the Mi Mix party - I've been using android since the original Samsung Galaxy S including Galaxy Notes and Nexus devices.
Since those early days when everything had to be done without toolkits I've also got myself employed and have just not had the time I once had due to no longer living alone.
Because this phone has been around a while I've noticed that a lot of the guides are a bit confusing/conflicting so just wanted to ask a few questions..
I am on MIUI Global 9.2 Stable (after I got the phone I did an OTA update.)
Here's what I want to do ....
Unlock the bootloader
Root
Install TWRP
and finally after that pick out and install a Rom.
So firstly do I have to install drivers before doing anything else. And on one guide it had 2 sets of drivers, Qualcomm & USB ?
Then do I just download adb & fastboot tool
and then the Mi Flash Tool and that's it ?
Source:
https://www.getdroidtips.com/unlock-bootloader-mi-mix/
or is there a newer more detailed guide with newer files ?
Just to add that I was going to try and unlock the bootloader via the official route but got a little confused when setting up the Mi/MIUI accounts before doing some more research and realizing there's an unofficial way.
The last time I used adb/fastboot it was a huge package compared to the now couple of files.
Also is there anything I need to do when first installing TWRP regarding choosing the partition options.
Thanks for reading and any response - Ps I'm in UK and have 2 Sims in phone and do I need to worry about the recovery phone number/details.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go the official route to unlock, miflash comes with the drivers, don't think there are any updates from the ones in the guide,not sure what you mean with the Sims, are contacts saved to Google if so nothing to worry about. You will only need miflash to get back to stock unless you got vendor ROM which doesn't seem to be the case.

Anyone got a working TWRP for Mi 8 global? MIUI 10.

As title. I've tried like 5 different TWRP versions linked from all over the Mi 8 forums and none have worked for me. Any and all versions have made the ROM unable to boot, every restart will load recovery instead and I have to flash stock boot to get the ROM to work. Bootloader unlocked, ROM rooted by having Magisk create a patched boot cos every other way also failed.
I'm also looking for it.
ArmedandDangerous said:
As title. I've tried like 5 different TWRP versions linked from all over the Mi 8 forums and none have worked for me. Any and all versions have made the ROM unable to boot, every restart will load recovery instead and I have to flash stock boot to get the ROM to work. Bootloader unlocked, ROM rooted by having Magisk create a patched boot cos every other way also failed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Currently https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-8/development/recovery-twrp-3-2-3-0-mi-8-t3837745 this version working but you've to format all of your data then flash your rom. I know its not the standard solution and even I'm waiting for official TWRP for our beloved Mi 8.
You need to choose Format Data first, Reboot again to Recovery, and then flash the DM Verity and Encryption Disabler.
After that, you can go ahead to flash any ROM you like.
mrnannu said:
Currently https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-8/development/recovery-twrp-3-2-3-0-mi-8-t3837745 this version working but you've to format all of your data then flash your rom. I know its not the standard solution and even I'm waiting for official TWRP for our beloved Mi 8.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Aw man crap, I don't want to wipe my phone againt, bootloader unlock already did it ): I'll wait for a regular version of TWRP then thanks!
motherninja said:
You need to choose Format Data first, Reboot again to Recovery, and then flash the DM Verity and Encryption Disabler.
After that, you can go ahead to flash any ROM you like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! It's more work than I want to deal with now, phone just got wiped from unlocking bootloader, I don't wanna go through another 5 hours of downloading and reinstalling everything.
ArmedandDangerous said:
Aw man crap, I don't want to wipe my phone againt, bootloader unlock already did it ): I'll wait for a regular version of TWRP then thanks!
Thanks! It's more work than I want to deal with now, phone just got wiped from unlocking bootloader, I don't wanna go through another 5 hours of downloading and reinstalling everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Believe me, it worth the efforts! It would be much better than staying with crappy MIUI 10 Global Stable.
Currently, I'm with MIUI EU 10.0.6.0 Stable and I don't want to go back to stock MIUI Stable, just don't forget to install Magisk 17.2 for root access, replace the GPS.conf with your preferred country server URL (I believed it should be Malaysia) - look for a thread by @RainGater for the complete walkthrough - and although it is not necessary, it would be better to edit the default Xiaomi EU build.prop to change the region to match your country (by default it is set to Romania or some EU country, I forgot)
motherninja said:
Believe me, it worth the efforts! It would be much better than staying with crappy MIUI 10 Global Stable.
Currently, I'm with MIUI EU 10.0.6.0 Stable and I don't want to go back to stock MIUI Stable, just don't forget to install Magisk 17.2 for root access, replace the GPS.conf with your preferred country server URL (I believed it should be Malaysia) and although it is not necessary, it would be better to edit the default Xiaomi EU build.prop to change the region to match your country (by default it is set to Romania or some EU country, I forgot)
Here, I uploaded the needed files to my personal Drive account to save your time, those are the files that I use personally for my Mi 8.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't actually have a problem with my ROM. My GPS works fine, and I've already gotten root on my stock Global. Right now in my journey with Android which started with the HTC Desire Z, I don't need a custom ROM, I just need root for the occasional app that needs it I do have root now, but would love TWRP too so I can make full backups. Will check out your links regardless, thanks!

[Q] A Proper Guide for Rom Flashing Our Mi8? Avoiding EDL and Bricking Device

Greetings Folks
For starters I just got Mi8 and am planning to go for Havoc or Pixel Experience there is a Pixel Port too I'll have to try which is best close to stock but with gestures features and full fledged Gcam support
Back to Questions
I have seen many threads where newer folks are victim of their devices getting bricked and paying for fix?
Why isnt there a proper guide thread to avoid these obstacles and spread awareness out ?
I know there are certain partitions you need to backup too e.g efs in case of lost IMEI there was a thread Its hell I have been through it with a Samsung Device,There was a guy who messed up his phone sensor files?
But most of all EDL and Devices getting brick so lets address the elephant in the room
Now My Phone is on
MIUI 10.3 Global 10.3.2.0(PEAMIXM)
Android Version : 9 PKQ1.180729.001
Android Security Patch : 2019-04-01
Rom threads say 9.3
take havoc for example
Help Appreciated thanks
@techyrock
Here is a guide : https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-8/how-to/how-to-install-roms-resolve-issues-t3911611
Part 1 ( The OP is general info ) Below the first couple of comments have detailed steps for AOSP.
Be extremely careful, unfortunately this community doesn't have a lot of highly active professionals.
So definitely double check any advice that you are given, or that you find. With that being said there are definitely several members that are mature, knowledgeable, friendly and overall fantastic.
If you need help, feel free to ask me anytime, I haven't had a lot of time to use XDA recently. But if I am around, I am always willing to help. At the moment I am going to sleep, but go ahead and read my thread, and I have made some lengthy post that may be helpful as well. You can find those posts by reading my post history. Enjoy.
As long as your account is bound to your device, unbricking is pretty easy with these phones. If you want to avoid a brick, avoid brand new builds, test software etc. Some of the recent issues actually stemmed from the 7.11 china developer rom which had a major issue.
if you want to use Miui with zero ads, and every single feature, then Mi-Globe is pretty great, and solid on a week to week basis.
As far as AOSP, I feel that in my experience that Syberia is practically always highly stable, but it's a little plain compared to some other roms. I also liked Pixel 3, Bootleggers ( Newer version) and Havoc. ( I used Havoc in the beginning of July and loved it, that build is fantastic)
I haven't tried a lot of AOSP roms on this phone yet. So that is all I have
Addition to that, the main issue is people are using Miflash to flash a ROM from bootloader. DO NOT USE IT.
Just use the flash_all.bat in the fastboot rom zip, it's easy. Miflash chooses to lock bootloader by default, and if you don't change it, you'll need to use EDL to fix your device. People usually forget about it, and will whine here to be able to unbrick. Don't be one of them
Don't relock the damn bootloader. It's unnecessary, and dangerous on a Chinese machine.
The War Profiteer said:
Addition to that, the main issue is people are using Miflash to flash a ROM from bootloader. DO NOT USE IT.
Just use the flash_all.bat in the fastboot rom zip, it's easy. Miflash chooses to lock bootloader by default, and if you don't change it, you'll need to use EDL to fix your device. People usually forget about it, and will whine here to be able to unbrick. Don't be one of them
Don't relock the damn bootloader. It's unnecessary, and dangerous on a Chinese machine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We ok that to unlock bootloader on mi8 we have to use mi "flash" unlock tool. Right?
Cheers
Erpe7 said:
We ok that to unlock bootloader on mi8 we have to use mi "flash" unlock tool. Right?
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that is the only way to unlock. he was talking about using Mi Flash to flash roms, which may seem to be user friendly which it is but is also extremely dangerous because the the option to lock the bootloader is checked by default. If using it make sure that its unchecked and you should not have any issues.
Personally, I prefer ADB if flashing via fastboot or TWRP with a OTG flash drive.
Also there is a tool that is excellent that I have also used many times, its called Tool all in One ( TAIO) After your bootloader is unlocked, you can use TAIO for many functions, including keep your PC's ADB platform tools, up to date, and providing system wide access. You can use it to remove encryption, flash recovery, root, roms or to restore to stock. It definitely worth installing if if you only use it to keep your drivers, and platform tools up to date.
First of all thanks guys for replies wasn't expecting this response
My device is Global Mi8 bootloader is locked for now I still have some hours left I'll be able to unlock it by 26th
miflash_unlock prompted to bind my account from developer option for unlocking,I did so it will be bound to my account and ill be unlocking it for first time I believe i bought it used but previous owner seemed to have know info about ROMs though
I have been using Pixel 2XL twice followed by Nokia 8 so I am much more inclined towards AOSP stock experience the two feature I would love to have from MIUI are the
1)MIUI gestures
2)MIUI Dual Apps (I am aware of Play store alternatives but clash of clans doesnt work as good on them as on dual apps )
I know gestures are on Havoc
guess you guys have been playing around with your mi8 kindly guide me to right directrion what ROMs you guys prefer and why ?
how would you prefer to flash a ROM do I need to back up any partitions ? if so which app should use for it ,Ill surely back up everything via TWRP for sure
also the encryption thingy should I sign out my google account before bootloader unlock and other stuff?
and since I am on
MIUI 10.3 Global 10.3.2.0(PEAMIXM)
Android Version : 9 PKQ1.180729.001
Android Security Patch : 2019-04-01
is it safe to flash havoc ?
tsongming said:
Yes, that is the only way to unlock. he was talking about using Mi Flash to flash roms, which may seem to be user friendly which it is but is also extremely dangerous because the the option to lock the bootloader is checked by default. If using it make sure that its unchecked and you should not have any issues.
Personally, I prefer ADB if flashing via fastboot or TWRP with a OTG flash drive.
Also there is a tool that is excellent that I have also used many times, its called Tool all in One ( TAIO) After your bootloader is unlocked, you can use TAIO for many functions, including keep your PC's ADB platform tools, up to date, and providing system wide access. You can use it to remove encryption, flash recovery, root, roms or to restore to stock. It definitely worth installing if if you only use it to keep your drivers, and platform tools up to date.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for this precious advices ;(
I'll note that!
Sent from my Redmi Note 5 Pro using XDA Labs
Thank you folks.
Could someone explain what EDL is meaning?
Gesendet von meinem BTV-DL09 mit Tapatalk
ktrokar said:
Thank you folks.
Could someone explain what EDL is meaning?
Gesendet von meinem BTV-DL09 mit Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a primary bootloader that we consumer know of and there's Qualcomm's Emergency Download Mode bootloader (EDL) , since Mi8 has ARB(Anti Rollback) downgrading the phone gets it bricked to EDL mode requiring EDL authentication to my understanding thats why edl is a thing(since its just emergency bootloader for oems to work with) I have not experienced it personally so I don't know whether it bricks that way or not but ARB and EDL authentication are a thing with Mi8 from what I have read in different threads
Sent from my MI 8 using Tapatalk
ktrokar said:
Thank you folks.
Could someone explain what EDL is meaning?
Gesendet von meinem BTV-DL09 mit Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EDL is Qualcomm recovery mode, it's the mode that you must be in to restore a hard bricked phone.
As long as you are careful you should never need to worry about EDL. Basically, you place the phone into a mode that the computer is able to recognise port 9008, once that is down you can use 1 of 4 techniques to restore your phone. Unbricking Xiaomi's is actually very easy to do, as long as the device is bound to your account.
The big issue is that unscrupulous Chinese vendors, used their own account to unlock bootloaders of Mi8's and other Xiaomi devices, then installed the Global Miui ROM and then sold the phone as new to unsuspecting western customers and at a lower price than western outlets such as Amazon. These vendors marketed the phones as Ïnternational versions" when they were actually Chinese devices and not the Global version that the customer thought they bought.
When these customer's used programs such as MiFlash to upgrade their phone's their bootloaders were locked and the are unable to log into their Mi Account to restore the phone. Remember the vendors unlocked the phone, so these Mi8's were bound to the vendor and not the final customer. This is the Primary reason why Xiaomi makes us wait to unlock the bootloader. Finally, ARB is potential issue, but it hasn't been implemented yet on Global devices.
So do your research before flashing anything and you should be safe.

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