How to Install a Xiaomi Recovery ROM (No PC Needed)

Install an official Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO recovery ROM from the phone itself with the Updater app — no PC or bootloader unlock needed. Full step-by-step guide.

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Published 2026-07-09 06:38:33 date

A recovery ROM is an official, signed firmware package you install directly from the phone using the built-in Updater app. Unlike a fastboot ROM, it needs no computer and no unlocked bootloader, which makes it the easiest way to update MIUI or HyperOS manually.

When to use a recovery ROM

  • You want to update to a newer build that has not reached you over the air yet.
  • Your bootloader is locked (most users).
  • You want to stay on the official, signed firmware.

Step-by-step

  1. On the device page for your model, download the recovery ROM (a .zip file) that matches your region.
  2. Move the .zip to the internal storage — the root folder or a downloaded_rom folder.
  3. Open the Settings → About phone → System update (the Updater app).
  4. Tap the three-dot menu (top right) and choose “Choose update package”. On some builds this option is hidden until you tap the MIUI/HyperOS logo a few times.
  5. Select the .zip you downloaded. The installer verifies and applies it, then reboots.
Note: The build must be the same version or newer than what is installed. Downgrading usually requires a fastboot ROM.

If “Choose update package” is missing

Newer HyperOS builds sometimes hide manual installation. If you cannot find it, a fastboot ROM is the reliable alternative. Still unsure which firmware type to pick? See Fastboot vs Recovery vs OTA.