Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro (whyred) Firmware Flash File Download [Stock ROM]
The Redmi Note 5 Pro (codenamed whyred) was Xiaomi’s massively popular smartphone featuring a Snapdragon 636 processor, dual AI cameras, and excellent battery life. If your device is experiencing camera malfunctions, performance issues, battery drain, 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 whyred before flashing. The Redmi Note 5 Pro is different from the regular Redmi Note 5 (vince) with superior specifications. Flashing incorrect firmware will result in a non-functional device.
Quick Device Specifications
- Device: Redmi Note 5 Pro (whyred)
- Release Year: 2018
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 (14nm)
- Display: 5.99″ IPS LCD, 1080 × 2160 pixels (18:9)
- Camera: 12MP + 5MP dual rear, 20MP front camera
- Battery: 4000 mAh
- RAM: 4GB/6GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 64GB/128GB eMMC 5.1
- Security: Rear fingerprint scanner, AI face unlock
- Special Feature: AI dual camera, excellent developer support
- 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 |
| PitchBlack Recovery | PitchBlack Recovery |
| ADB and Fastboot Tools | Official from Google |
| Mi Unlock Tool | Bootloader Unlock |
Official Fastboot ROM Collection
| Region / Variant | Build Version | Android | Release Date | Download Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Stable | V12.0.3.0.PEICNXM | 9.0 | 2021-05-09 | Download |
| Global Stable | V12.0.2.0.PEIMIXM | 9.0 | 2020-12-24 | Download |
| Russia Stable | V11.0.1.0.PEIRUXM | 9.0 | 2019-10-23 | Download |
| Xiaomi.eu (Custom) | V12.0.3.0.PEICNXM (Based) | 9.0 | — | Download |
| PitchBlack Recovery | 2.9.0 | 9.0 | — | Download |
Flashing Guide for Redmi Note 5 Pro (whyred)
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 (5-7 minutes)
- First Boot: Initial boot may take 5-10 minutes as system optimizes.
Method 2: Custom Recovery (PitchBlack/TWRP)
- Flash Recovery:
fastboot flash recovery pitchblack.img - Boot to Recovery:
fastboot boot pitchblack.img - Format Data: Wipe → Format Data → type “yes”
- Install Custom ROM: Flash Xiaomi.eu or other custom ROMs
- Optional: Flash Magisk for root access
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why is my dual camera not working properly after update?
The AI dual camera system requires specific calibration. Flash the stock ROM and recalibrate through hardware test menu (##6484## → Camera Test). This often resolves focus and portrait mode issues.
Q2. Can I upgrade to Android 11 or 12 on Redmi Note 5 Pro?
Yes! While Android 9 was the final official version, whyred has exceptional custom ROM support. You can install:
- Pixel Experience (Android 12)
- LineageOS 19.1 (Android 12)
- ArrowOS (Android 13)
- Many other Android 13 ROMs
Q3. Why is the China ROM version newer than Global/India ROM?
Xiaomi provides longer update support for the Chinese market. The China variant received MIUI 12 with May 2021 security patches, while Global stopped at December 2020.
Q4. How can I improve gaming performance on my device?
The Snapdragon 636 is capable for gaming. Use Game Turbo mode, clear background apps, and consider custom kernels for better thermal management.
Device-Specific Troubleshooting
- Camera Performance: The AI dual camera needs proper calibration. Test portrait mode after flashing.
- Battery Optimization: The 4000mAh battery provides excellent endurance. Calibrate after flashing.
- Performance Management: The Snapdragon 636 offers good performance. Use Game Turbo for better gaming.
- Custom ROM Support: Excellent community support with many Android 12/13 ROMs available.
PitchBlack Recovery Installation
- Unlock bootloader officially through Mi Unlock
- Boot to fastboot mode: Power off → Volume Down + Power
- Flash Recovery:
fastboot flash recovery pitchblack.img - Boot to Recovery:
fastboot boot pitchblack.img - Format Data: Wipe → Format Data → type “yes”
- Now you can flash custom ROMs or take backups
Note: PitchBlack Recovery offers modern features and better compatibility with newer Android versions.
Version Comparison Advice
China ROM (V12.0.3.0): Newest official (MIUI 12), May 2021 security patches
Global ROM (V12.0.2.0): Better for international users, December 2020 security
Xiaomi.eu ROM: Best MIUI experience – debloated with Google services
Custom ROMs: Recommended for modern Android versions (up to Android 13)
Custom ROM Recommendations
- For Daily Driver: Pixel Experience (Android 12)
- For Stability: LineageOS 19.1
- For Performance: ArrowOS (Android 13)
- For Features: crDroid (Android 12)
All available through XDA Developers forum for whyred.
Special Considerations
Excellent Development: Whyred has one of the best custom ROM communities
Hardware Quality: The Snapdragon 636 remains capable for daily use
Battery Life: 4000mAh battery provides excellent endurance
Camera Performance: AI dual cameras still perform well with proper software
