The Mi 8 Pro (codenamed equuleus), also known as Mi 8 Under Display edition, was Xiaomi’s premium flagship featuring a transparent glass back, under-display fingerprint scanner, and advanced 3D face unlock. If your device is experiencing fingerprint reader failures, face unlock issues, or software instability, this guide provides the official MIUI fastboot ROMs and custom recovery needed for complete system restoration.
Important Notice: Verify your device codename is equuleus before flashing. The Mi 8 Pro 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 Pro / Mi 8 UD (equuleus)
- 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 10
Essential Downloads & Tools
Official Fastboot ROM Collection
Flashing Guide for Mi 8 Pro (equuleus)
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
- Backup Partitions: Backup persist, modem, and EFS partitions first
- Install Custom ROM: Flash custom ROMs from storage
- Wipe Data: Format data for clean installation
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). Ensure screen protector is compatible with pressure-sensitive sensors.
Q2. Can I upgrade to Android 11 on Mi 8 Pro?
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 if you unlock the bootloader.
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 pressure-sensitive under-display sensor.
- Face Unlock Failure: Backup persist partition before any modifications. Restore original persist if 3D 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.
TWRP Installation Guide
- Unlock bootloader officially through Mi Unlock
- Boot to fastboot mode: Power off → Volume Down + Power
- Flash TWRP:
fastboot flash recovery twrp.img - Boot to TWRP:
fastboot boot twrp.img - Backup critical partitions: persist, modem, EFS
- Format Data: Wipe → Format Data → type “yes”
Critical: Always backup persist, modem, and EFS partitions before flashing custom ROMs to avoid losing fingerprint and face unlock functionality.
Warning & Special Considerations
Persist Partition: This device’s advanced biometric features rely on the persist partition. Never wipe or modify this partition without backup.
Hardware Specificity: The transparent back and specialized sensors require specific firmware. Avoid generic Mi 8 ROMs.
Security Features: The 3D face unlock and under-display fingerprint are hardware-specific features that may not work with custom ROMs.
Regional Variants: The Global and Russia versions have different network band support – flash the appropriate version for your region.
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