Emir BardakçıDiscovering that your brand new Xiaomi device might be running a “fake ROM” can be a disheartening experience for any fan. These unauthorized, modified versions of Xiaomi’s official software are often installed by third-party sellers on devices intended for the Chinese market to make them more appealing to a global audience with multi-language support. However, these fake ROMs come with significant downsides, including the lack of official updates from Xiaomi, which can leave your device vulnerable to security risks and prevent you from enjoying the latest features of Xiaomi HyperOS. Furthermore, a fake ROM can lead to an unstable and buggy user experience, diminishing the premium feel that Xiaomi devices are known for. In this guide, we will walk you through how to identify a fake ROM and what your options are if you find one on your device. You can also learn more about how to check if your device’s software is original.
How to Check for a Fake ROM
Before you can take action, you first need to confirm whether your device is running a fake ROM. Here are a few ways to do that:
- Check the MIUI/HyperOS Version: Navigate to
Settings > About phone. A genuine global ROM will have a version code that includes “MIXM, EUXM, TRXM, TWXM, IDXM, INXM, RUXM, JPXM”, while a Chinese ROM will have “CNXM”. If you see a version number that deviates from the standard naming convention, or has an unusual number of digits, it might be a fake ROM. If you have different version code follow next step. - Use the MemeOS Enhancer App: For a quick and easy check, you can download the MemeOS Enhancer app from the Google Play Store. The app will immediately tell you if your device has a fake ROM upon opening it. Additionally, the MemeOS Enhancer app, a project by our team at HyperOSUpdates.com, allows you to unlock hidden Xiaomi features, update other system apps, and access screen updates.
- Official Verification: You can use Xiaomi’s official Product Authentication page to verify your device using its IMEI or serial number. This is a surefire way to check the authenticity of your phone.
What to Do If You Have a Fake ROM
If you’ve confirmed that your device has a fake ROM, don’t panic. Here are the steps you should take:
- The best course of action is to seek professional help. You can consult a local mobile repair shop, a remote support service, or an authorized Xiaomi service center to have the fake ROM replaced with an official one.
- It’s important to understand that devices with fake ROMs are almost always Chinese-market devices. This means that a Global version of HyperOS cannot be installed on them. Your only option is to install the official China HyperOS ROM. The China ROM is stable and official, but it only supports the English and Chinese languages.
Unfortunately, many of these Chinese devices also have a locked bootloader, which cannot be unlocked. This means you will have to choose between continuing to use the unstable and un-updatable fake ROM or switching to the official China HyperOS with its language limitations.
