As we step into a new year, several Xiaomi smartphones are approaching the end of their official software support cycle. Every Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO device is launched with a defined update lifespan, and once that period expires, the phone reaches End of Life (EOL) status.
Most Xiaomi smartphones are eligible for up to four years of software support, which includes Android OS upgrades and security patches. Unfortunately, once this support window closes, the device no longer receives updates of any kind. As a result, dozens of Xiaomi phones reach EOL every year.
Understanding a device’s update policy before purchasing is crucial, as it helps users plan ahead and decide when it’s time to upgrade to a newer smartphone.
What Does EOL (End of Life) Mean for Xiaomi Phones?
When a Xiaomi phone officially reaches EOL status, it will no longer receive:
- Android OS upgrades
- HyperOS updates
- Security patches
- Bug fixes or performance improvements
Although manufacturers sometimes release emergency updates for critical issues, this is extremely rare for Xiaomi devices. Once EOL is reached, updates effectively stop permanently.
Xiaomi Phones That Will Stop Receiving Updates in 2026
Several flagship and mid-range Xiaomi devices are expected to exhaust their support period in 2026. The first set of phones will lose support in March 2026, while others will follow later in the year, around October 2026.
Below is a breakdown of the affected models:
Xiaomi Flagship Models Reaching EOL in 2026
- Xiaomi 12 – March 2026
- Xiaomi 12 Pro – March 2026
- Xiaomi 12T – October 2026
- Xiaomi 12T Pro – October 2026
The Xiaomi 12 series debuted in 2021 running Android 12 and has received multiple Android upgrades since launch. By the time support officially ends, these phones are expected to be running HyperOS 3.
Redmi Phones Reaching EOL in 2026
- Redmi Note 12 5G – March 2026
- Redmi 12C – Shortly after March 2026
- Redmi 12 Series – 2026 (exact timeline varies by model)
Unlike the flagship models, some Redmi devices—such as the Redmi Note 12 5G and Redmi 12C—are expected to reach EOL while still running HyperOS 2, as they have not received recent major upgrades.
What Happens When Your Xiaomi Phone Stops Receiving Updates?
Once your Xiaomi phone enters the EOL list:
- Your device becomes more vulnerable to security threats
- No new features or system improvements will be added
- App compatibility issues may arise over time
- Performance and stability issues may go unresolved
While the phone will continue to function normally, using an unsupported device long-term is not recommended—especially for users who rely on mobile banking, sensitive data, or frequent app updates.
Should You Upgrade Your Xiaomi Phone?
If your Xiaomi phone is scheduled to stop receiving updates in 2026, now is the perfect time to start planning an upgrade. With several months remaining before official support ends, users can:
- Monitor discounts on newer Xiaomi or POCO models
- Compare devices with longer software support policies
- Prepare for a smooth transition without rushing
Staying informed about update timelines ensures better security, performance, and overall smartphone longevity.
Tip: Always check Xiaomi’s official update policy or EOL list before purchasing a new device to ensure you get the longest possible software support.
source: Xiaomi
