After a long wait, Xiaomi smartphone users are finally being treated with the stable build of MIUI 7 OS based on Google's Android 5.1 Lollipop. The newly released software was tested and optimised for two months before it was released to the public to ensure there are minimum glitches. The MIUI 7 is available to all eligible Mi smartphones around the world, including those in India and China, over the air but those who can't wait can download and install the OS right away.

Of course, OTA (over-the-air) updates are easy to install and run compared to manually updating the software. But due to high traffic, the servers might be jammed for a quick and seamless upgrade. Hence, a manual upgrade through MIUI Downloads can be quick and easy if you follow our guide. 

Before getting started, it is important to check if your handset is compatible. The MIUI 7 stable builds are available for Xiaomi Mi 3, Xiaomi Mi 4, Xiaomi Mi Note, Xiaomi Redmi 1S, Xiaomi Redmi 2, Xiaomi Redmi 2 Prime, Xiaomi Redmi Note, and Xiaomi Mi Pad.

Users can check the Updater app to see if the OTA update is available on their phones, which makes the process whole lot simpler. The MIUI 7 is rolled out in phases, so it is possible you might not get the update notification right away but waiting for a few days will surely answer your need. If you do get the update, simply press the Update button and restart when prompted.

In case you haven't received the update yet over the air, follow the instructions below to get the MIUI 7 for your Xiaomi smartphone.

Prerequisites

  • Back up your data on the phone before proceeding.
  • Handsets running MIUI 7 China developer build are recommended to flash using full ROMs as the OTA update will not available.
  • Make sure the battery on your smartphone is charged at least 70% to avoid any midway hurdles.

[Read: MIUI 7 rollout begins from 27 October: Supported devices and new features; how to install]

How to download and install MIUI 7 on your smartphone? [via Xiaomi, NDTV]

Step 1: Download MIUI 7 Recovery ROM for your device from below:

Step 2: Rename the downloaded Recovery ROM to update.zip on your PC.

Step 3: Connect your Xiaomi smartphone you are updating to the PC using USB cable.

Step 4: Copy the renamed ROM file into the root directory of the internal storage of your device only.

Step 5: Enter recovery mode. You can do so by launching Updater app on your phone. Then click the three horizontal dots on the top right for menu and select Reboot to Recovery mode. Alternatively, you turn off the device and press volume+ and power button simultaneously.

Note: Navigate in recovery mode using Volume + and Volume – buttons for up and down, and Power button to select or confirm the selection.

Step 6: Select your preferred language and proceed.

Step 7: Select Install update.zip to System One and confirm.

Step 8: Once the installation has begun, wait for it to complete and select Reboot to System One. After the device restarts, it will run the MIUI 7.