The Mi 8 Explorer Edition (codenamed ursa) was Xiaomi’s special edition flagship featuring a transparent glass back, under-display fingerprint scanner, and 3D face unlock. If your device is experiencing fingerprint reader failures, face unlock issues, or software instability, this guide provides the official MIUI fastboot ROM and custom recovery needed for complete system restoration.

Important Notice: Verify your device codename is ursa before flashing. The Mi 8 Explorer Edition has unique hardware components including pressure-sensitive in-display fingerprint scanner and transparent back design. Flashing incorrect firmware will result in a non-functional device.

Quick Device Specifications

Device: Mi 8 Explorer Edition (ursa)
Release Year: 2018
Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 (10nm)
Display: 6.21″ AMOLED, 1080 × 2248 pixels (18.7:9)
Camera: 12MP + 12MP dual rear, 20MP front camera
Battery: 3000 mAh with Quick Charge 4.0+
Security: Under-display fingerprint, 3D face unlock
Special Feature: Transparent glass back showing internal components
Original OS: Android 8.1 Oreo, MIUI 9

Essential Downloads & Tools

File / Tool	Download Link
Xiaomi Mi Flash Tool	Download Stable Version
Qualcomm USB Drivers	Download Latest Drivers
TWRP Recovery	TWRP 3.3.1 for ursa
Mi Unlock Tool	Bootloader Unlock

Official Firmware Collection

Region / Variant	Build Version	Android	Release Date	Download Link
China Stable Fastboot	V12.5.3.0.QEHCNXM	10.0	2021-10-28	Download
Xiaomi.eu Custom ROM	V12.5.3.0.QEHCNXM (Based)	10.0	—	Download
TWRP Recovery	3.3.1-1002	10.0	—	Download

Flashing Guide for Mi 8 Explorer Edition

Method 1: Fastboot Flashing (Official)

Driver Installation: Install Qualcomm USB drivers on your computer.
Bootloader Unlock: Unlock bootloader using Mi Unlock Tool (requires waiting period).
Enter Fastboot Mode: Power off device, then hold Volume Down + Power buttons.
Flash Process:
- Extract the .tgz file to access firmware folder
- Open Mi Flash Tool and browse to extracted folder
- Select “Clean All” option for fresh installation
- Click “Flash” and wait for completion (5-8 minutes)
Calibrate Sensors: After first boot, calibrate fingerprint and face unlock in settings.

Method 2: TWRP Recovery (Custom)

Flash TWRP: Fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
Boot to TWRP: Hold Volume Up + Power during boot
Install Custom ROM: Flash Xiaomi.eu zip from storage
Wipe Data: Format data for clean installation
Flash Additional ZIPs: May need to flash Disable_Dm-Verity_ForceEncrypt for proper boot

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why is my under-display fingerprint scanner not working properly?
The pressure-sensitive fingerprint sensor requires specific calibration. Flash the stock ROM and perform fingerprint calibration through the hardware test menu (##6484## → Fingerprint Test).

Q2. Can I upgrade to Android 11 on Mi 8 Explorer Edition?
No, Android 10 was the final official Android version. However, there are custom ROMs like Pixel Experience and LineageOS 18.1 (Android 11) available through TWRP.

Q3. Why does my 3D face unlock fail after flashing?
The 3D facial recognition system requires specific persist data. Always backup your persist partition before flashing. If face unlock fails, you may need to restore original persist data.

Q4. Is the transparent back affected by software changes?
The transparent back is physical, but software can affect how the underlying components are displayed and managed. Use stock ROM for optimal compatibility with the unique hardware.

Device-Specific Troubleshooting

Fingerprint Issues: Recalibrate through hardware test menu. Ensure screen protector is compatible with under-display sensor.
Face Unlock Failure: Backup persist partition before any modifications. Restore original persist if face unlock stops working.
Battery Life: The 3000mAh battery may need calibration after flashing. Use battery calibration apps or full charge-discharge cycles.
Performance Optimization: The Snapdragon 845 still performs well. Use Game Turbo for enhanced gaming performance.