Emir BardakçıThe Redmi Note 12 series, launched in early 2023, is set to complete the software lifespan as of late 2025. The series includes the following variants of the phones. The Redmi Note 12, Note 12 Pro, Note 12 Pro+ have got their final update in the form of HyperOS 2 based on Android 15. The phones will not be eligible for updates to HyperOS 3 based on Android 15.
For those wondering about next steps, this report highlights the most plausible Xiaomi upgrade scenarios based on performance, durability, as well as value for the Xiaomi ecosystem.
Conclusion of Software Updates on the Redmi Note 12 Series
Redmi Note 12 Series, at the time of launch, was quite a turning point in Xiaomi’s budget segment, offering both performance as well as budget-friendliness. But this lineup launched under a different update support from Xiaomi, as it only supported two Android updates and three years of security updates.
In 2025, the final major system update available for these phones would be HyperOS 2. The next update, namely HyperOS 3 based on Android 15, would leave the Redmi Note 12 series behind. Only niche variants such as the Redmi Note 12T Pro and the Redmi Note 12 Turbo will make it to the list. These devices are exclusive for China.
Thus, the cut-off point technically leaves consumers in the Redmi Note 12 lineup with working hardware but an outdated software plan, a phenomenon common to the update cycles of Xiaomi.
The Xiaomi Way of Software Updates: Long-Term Usage Prioritized Over
The mid-range smartphone segment has undergone a radical transformation ever since 2023. While buyers were once concerned about raw specs, “The most important spec in 2025 is durability—how long a phone keeps secure software.”
In response to the trend, Xiaomi launched the Redmi Note 14 series. It brings a first, as it supports a 4 major OS + 6 years of security updates. In contrast, while the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G variants, as well as the Pro+ 5G variant, support a 3 major OS updates (Android 17), it supports a total of 5 years of patch updates.
Based on the strong support traditions set by Samsung on the Galaxy A series, it appears this is a huge paradigm shift on Xiaomi’s philosophy, which Redmi Note 12 users have missed by a generation.
Recommended Xiaomi Upgrades for Redmi Note 12 Users
The following are the best alternatives for those interested in upgrading from the Redmi Note 12 series within the Xiaomi brand:
1. Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – Balanced Performance Choice
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra (4nm)
- Performance: ~771,000 AnTuTu 10 score (~42% faster than Note 12 Pro)
- Display: 1.5K AMOLED, 120Hz, Gorilla Glass Victus 2
- Camera: 200MP OIS main lens
- Durability: IP68 water resistance
- Charging: 45W (a step down from 67W)
- Price: Approx. $250
It has a good mix of power, camera, and durability, though it compromises on charging speed, as it is slower than the model it replaces.
2. Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G – The Real Successor
- Processor: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 (4nm)
- Performance: ~750,000 AnTuTu score (~38% faster than Note 12 Pro)
- Camera: 200MP OIS, identical to Pro 5G
- Charging: 120W HyperCharge – fully charges in under 20 minutes
- Durability: IP68-certified
- Price: Approx. $305
It corrects the main issue associated with the standard Pro model, which has a poor charging speed, while delivering a “flagship-like” experience without much trade-off.
3. Redmi Note 14 (4G) – For Software Longevity
Being technologically inferior, the regular Redmi Note 14 (4G) has one event in comparison to both Pros, which is the support for updates.
- Updates: 4 Android versions + 6 years of security patches
- Price: Around $210
It thus becomes the best long-term solution for those customers who value a software lifespan over performance.
Conclusion on Which Xiaomi Phone to Use After Redmi Note 12 Series
For Redmi Note 12 users, Xiaomi’s 2025 lineup provides three clear upgrade paths:
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For best overall experience: Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G – combines flagship-grade speed, camera, and charging.
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For value-focused buyers: Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – delivers strong performance at a lower price.
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For update longevity: Redmi Note 14 (4G) – ensures software relevance through 2031.
In conclusion, while the Redmi Note 12 series gracefully reaches the end of its software life, Xiaomi’s latest generation ensures every user type — from performance seekers to long-term planners — has a future-ready path within the same ecosystem.
