Attention Xiaomi users: Google is set to officially end Chrome browser support for Android 8.0 Oreo and Android 9.0 Pie devices, starting with Chrome version 139, scheduled for release on August 5, 2025. This update will impact a significant number of Xiaomi smartphones, including popular Mi and Redmi series models released between 2016 and 2018. With roughly 10% of Android devices worldwide still operating on these versions, the shift will affect millions of users globally.
Key Details and Timeline
Ellen T, Chrome Support Manager, announced on the Chrome support forums that Chrome 138 will be the final version compatible with Android 8.0 and 9.0. After August 5, 2025, affected Xiaomi devices will no longer receive Chrome updates from the Play Store. While Chrome 138 will remain functional, users will miss out on important security patches, new features, and performance improvements. Over time, as websites evolve, browsing quality on these devices is expected to decline.
Impacted Xiaomi Models
Devices losing Chrome support include:
Android 7.0 EOL Devices
- Xiaomi Mi 5
- Xiaomi Mi 5s
- Xiaomi Mi 5S Plus
- Xiaomi Mi Max
- Redmi 4
- Redmi 4 Prime
- Redmi 4X
- Redmi Note 4
- Redmi Note 4X
- Redmi Note 5A / Redmi Y1
- Redmi Note 5A Prime / Redmi Y1 Lite
Android 7.1 EOL Devices
- Xiaomi Mi Max 2
- Redmi Note 5A Prime / Redmi Y1
- Redmi 5
- Redmi 5A
Android 8 / 9 EOL devices
- Xiaomi Mi 6
- Xiaomi Mi MIX 2
- Xiaomi MIX 3 5G
- Xiaomi Mi 6X
- Xiaomi Mi 5X
- Xiaomi Mi A1
- Redmi Note 5
- Redmi Note 5 Pro
- Redmi Note 6 Pro
- Redmi 5
- Redmi 5 Plus
- Xiaomi Mi Note 3
- Redmi 6 / 6A
Alternative Browser Solutions
Xiaomi users affected by this change have several alternatives to consider. Firefox for Android continues to support devices running Android 5.0 and later, offering ongoing security and feature updates. Additional browser options include Microsoft Edge, Opera, and Samsung Internet, though compatibility should be confirmed for each model.
For those seeking to optimize device performance, the MemeOS Enhancer app on the Play Store can help unlock system features and improve usability on older Xiaomi devices.
Source: Chrome Support Forums