Xiaomi discontinues security updates for several devices

In a landmark event for Xiaomi users worldwide, the company has now formally declared the end of security updates for some of its most well-known devices according to their Product Software Support Information page. Thousands of users who have been operating these devices for their daily digital needs are affected by this move, though there is a peculiar silver lining for Xiaomi 11 Ultra users. The decision is the most recent chapter in Xiaomi’s software support strategy drama, which continues to play out even as the company is succeeding to maintain older devices while prioritizing newer product lines.

Devices Reaching End of Support

The list of devices that will no longer receive security updates includes the Redmi 10C and Redmi 10 that have reached end-of-life (EOL) status with MIUI 14 based on Android 13. For the majority of users, that equates to no longer having protection against newly discovered vulnerabilities, a potential cause for concern around long-term device security.

Similarly, the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 11E Pro, Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G, and POCO X4 Pro 5G have also reached their EOL with HyperOS 1 based on Android 13. The mid-range phones, which were very popular at the time of release for offering excellent specs at budget prices, will no longer receive updates in the form of security patches.

Impact on Xiaomi 12X

Xiaomi 12X, which was promoted as a compact flagship variant, has also become part of the phones that will no longer receive any additional support in terms of security updates. Like the aforementioned Redmi Note 11 series, the 12X concludes its update cycle with HyperOS 1 based on Android 13. Xiaomi 12 Lite will not receive the HyperOS 2 update, even though it is due for an update.

Surprising Exception: Xiaomi 11 Ultra Receives HyperOS 2

However, in a pleasant surprise to most Mi fans, Xiaomi has announced that the Xiaomi 11 Ultra will receive HyperOS 2 despite having ceased receiving regular security updates. This 2021 flagship premium device, which was acclaimed for its excellent camera configuration and high-end specifications, will be updated to an Android 14-based update, though not HyperOS 2 based on the upcoming Android 15.

Xiaomi 11 series to get final HyperOS 2 update in March

What This Means for Users

This preferential treatment for the 11 Ultra raises questions about the standards for Xiaomi’s update policy. While most of the devices on the list are mid-range or budget phones, the fact that the 11 Ultra is being provided with HyperOS 2 suggests that Xiaomi may be providing extended software support for its flagship premium phones, perhaps to maintain customer satisfaction among its premium user base.

For users of the affected devices, it is recommended that they take additional security measures, such as being more cautious when downloading apps from unknown sources and keeping sensitive information highly secured.

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