The era of the legendary smartphone Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro has long passed, but interest in this device from enthusiasts does not fade away. Forum 4PDA remains the main hub where archives of original builds and unique custom solutions are stored. This is where you will find up-to-date information on how to revive an old device or squeeze maximum performance out of it.
Many users mistakenly believe that after official support ends, the device becomes a useless brick. In fact, thanks to the developer community, Redmi Note 3 Pro (encoding kennedy) is still capable of running on modern versions of Android. You have to learn the nuances of unlocking the bootloader and choosing the appropriate firmware.
In this article, we will analyze the main stages of working with this gadget, based on verified data from a specialized resource. We will not use template phrases, but will focus on specific actions that will help you safely update your system or bring your device back to life after unsuccessful experiments.
Model features and version identification
Before you begin any manipulations, you need to accurately determine the version of your device. Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro was produced in two main modifications: the global version (Global) and the Chinese version (CN). Although they are identical in appearance, their software is fundamentally different.
An attempt to flash global firmware onto a Chinese device (and vice versa) without special utilities will result in the phone not working. First of all, check the model in the section Settings → About phone. Look for the line with the device code: kennedy for global version and kenzo for Chinese.
It's critical to make sure you don't confuse the standard version of the Note 3 with the Pro version. The standard model uses a MediaTek processor, which does not support the official bootloader unlocking method. This makes it impossible to install most of the custom firmware available for Redmi Note 3 Pro.
- ✅ IMEI check: Enter
*#06#and check the model code with the data on the box. - ✅ MIUI Version: The official global firmware has in its title
Global, Chinese -China. - ✅ Loader: Make sure the bootloader is not locked if you plan to customize.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to flash images from the MediaTek version onto a Snapdragon processor. This is guaranteed to disable the device without the possibility of recovery using software methods.
Unlocking the bootloader: the first step to freedom
Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader) is a prerequisite for the installation of any modified systems. Without this step, you will only be able to flash official updates through the official MiFlash tool, but you will not be able to Root or install TWRP.
The process requires an account in the ecosystem Xiaomiassociated with the device. You need to go to Settings → About phone, click on the item several times MIUI versionto activate developer mode. Next go to For developers and turn it on Unlocking the bootloader.
After this you need to go to Additional for developers and add your account to the section Mi Unlock Status. Now the smartphone needs to be switched to Fastboot mode by holding down the buttons Volume down and Food, and connect to PC.
- 🔧 Download the official utility Mi Unlock Tool from the manufacturer's website.
- 🔧 Launch the program on your PC and log in to your Mi account.
- 🔧 Click the button
Unlockand wait for the process to complete (about 10-15 minutes).
Please note that once unlocked, all data on the device will be permanently deleted. This is a standard safety precaution provided by the manufacturer. If you have important files, be sure to back them up before starting the procedure.
- Snapdragon 650 (Pro)
- MediaTek Helio X10 (Regular)
- I don't know
- Other
In some cases, unlocking may take up to 7 days. The system will issue a timer that cannot be bypassed using standard methods. Patience is the key to success here.
⚠️ Attention: If you are downgrading from custom firmware to the official one, make sure that the MIUI version on your PC is not lower than the one on your phone, otherwise an error will occur Anti-rollback.
Installing custom recovery and Root rights
After successful unlocking, the next step is to install a custom recovery. The most popular and stable solution for Redmi Note 3 Pro remains TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). It is through this interface that you will install modified systems.
Download the file image twrp.img, corresponding exactly to your model (Global or China). Put your phone into Fastboot mode and run the firmware command via your computer:
fastboot flash recovery twrp.img. After that, immediately reboot into Recovery mode by holding down Volume up and Food, otherwise the standard system may overwrite the custom recovery.
To obtain superuser rights (Root) you will need an archive with the file Magisk.zip or old SuperSU. From the TWRP menu, select Install, find the downloaded archive and swipe to confirm the firmware.
- 📥 Download the latest version TWRP from the official website or w3bsit3-dns.com section.
- 📥 Download current Magisk to obtain access rights.
- 📥 Prepare your drivers ADB and Fastboot for working with the command line.
☑️ Checking readiness for firmware
Sometimes after installing Magisk, the phone may not boot into the system. In this case, you need to go into recovery and reset the data (Wipe Data/Factory Reset). This is standard practice when installing a new system for the first time.
What is Magisk and why is it needed?
Magisk is a modern Root rights manager that allows you to access system files without changing the system partition. This is important for banking applications and obtaining SafetyNet status, which is not possible using old methods of obtaining Root.
Selecting and installing custom firmware
Forum 4PDA stores thousands of assemblies for Redmi Note 3 Pro. The differences between them can be colossal: from pure Android to heavily modded versions with a bunch of pre-installed functions. Popular options include LineageOS, PixelExperience and various assemblies based on Resurrection Remix.
When choosing firmware, pay attention to the date of the last update and the number of user complaints in the topic. Even if the Android version is new, but the build is unstable, it is better to stick with a proven version. Common problems may include the camera not working, Wi-Fi glitches, or Bluetooth problems.
The installation process is usually carried out through the menu Install in TWRP. You need to select the archive with the firmware, and then, if desired, the archive with GApps (Google Apps), if the firmware does not have Google services.
- 🚀 LineageOS: Ideal for maximum performance and stability.
- 🚀 PixelExperience: Turns your phone into a pure Pixel with branded features.
- 🚀 crDroid: Offers a huge range of settings for advanced users.
Before installing new firmware, be sure to make a full backup of the Data and System partition via the Backup function in TWRP to an SD card or computer.
Some firmware requires mandatory formatting of the partition Data before first installation. Ignoring this requirement will result in a cyclic reboot (Bootloop). Always read the title of a forum thread before downloading a file.
A clean installation (Clean Flash) with Data formatting is the most reliable way to avoid conflicts between the old and new systems.
Comparison of official and custom solutions
Many users doubt whether it is worth leaving the official MIUI for custom builds. The official system offers deep integration with the Xiaomi ecosystem, but is often overloaded with unnecessary software and advertising. Custom firmware provides a pure Android experience.
Below is a table comparing the key parameters of different approaches to using the device. This will help you make an informed decision.
| Parameter | Official MIUI | Custom firmware | Differences in stability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android version | Old (up to 6.0/7.0) | Fresh (until 11/12/13) | Custom versions are much newer |
| Performance | Medium, many background processes | High, minimalism | Custom builds are faster |
| Camera | Official Xiaomi algorithm | Depends on the version (often worse) | Official MIUI gives better photo quality |
| Security | Official patches (before support stops) | Patches from the community | The official version is safer for banks |
Particular attention should be paid to the operation of the camera. In custom firmware, problems often arise with the camera module, since developers are forced to use common drivers. For photographers, it is better to leave the official system or look for specialized assemblies with GCam ports installed.
Typical problems and their solutions
Even experienced users may encounter errors when working with Redmi Note 3 Pro. The most common problem is that the phone does not turn on after unsuccessful firmware. In this case, the mode will help Fastboot and flashing via MiFlash or adb sideload.
Another common problem is lack of communication after installing custom firmware. This could be due to an incorrect APN setting or a corrupted EFS partition. Never back up an EFS partition without a password, as losing it will make it impossible to use the network.
If your phone gets hot and discharges quickly, check if heavy software is installed or if there is a background process running. Custom firmware often requires manual configuration of the power consumption profile.
- 🛠 Bootloop: Make Wipe Data/Cache in TWRP and install the firmware again.
- 🛠 No network: Check your APN settings or reflash your modem.
- 🛠 Wi-Fi glitches: Update your kernel or reset your network settings.
In difficult cases, when the device does not respond to buttons, a programmer may be required to resolder the memory chip. This is an extreme measure, available only in specialized service centers.
How to restore EFS?
If the EFS partition is damaged, but you have a backup, restore it through the Restore menu in TWRP. If you don't have a copy, you will have to use service utilities to repair the IMEI, which may be illegal in your country.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to return the official firmware after installing the custom one?
Yes, it's possible. You need to download the official MIUI image for your version (Global or China) and flash it through the MiFlash utility in Fastboot mode. Make sure that the firmware version on your PC is not lower than the one on your phone to avoid the Anti-rollback error.
Do banking applications work on custom firmware?
By default - no, since the presence of Root rights and custom recovery is blocked by the banks' security system. However, using Magisk with the MagiskHide or Zygisk module, it is possible to hide the fact of Root and fool the security check system, although this requires constant configuration.
Which Android version is the most stable for Redmi Note 3 Pro?
Android 9 (Pie) or Android 10 (Q) in LineageOS or PixelExperience builds is considered the most stable. Newer versions (11, 12, 13) may work with some bugs, such as problems with the camera or power consumption.
Do I need to do a full reset (Format Data) before each new firmware?
If you are migrating from one custom firmware to another, Data formatting is highly recommended to avoid file conflicts. When switching from official to custom, this is mandatory. When updating the same custom assembly to a new version (for example, from 1.0 to 1.1), you usually do not need to format the data.
Is it possible to use the phone as a regular smartphone after installing custom firmware?
Undoubtedly. After installing the firmware and setting up Google services, the phone works like a full-fledged smartphone. You will be able to install applications from the Play Market, make calls, use the Internet and cameras. The only limitation is possible bugs in the operation of some specific functions, such as a fingerprint scanner or NFC, depending on the firmware version.