The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 (codename ginkgo) is a true legend in the smartphone world. Launched in 2019, it became one of the best-selling Android phones of all time by perfecting the formula for a budget all-rounder. It offered features that were unheard of at its price point, including a versatile 48MP AI quad-camera, a premium Gorilla Glass 5 build on both the front and back, and the reliable and efficient Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset. Paired with a large 4000 mAh battery, the ginkgo delivered a complete and durable experience that won over millions. This page serves as the ultimate firmware hub for this iconic device, offering official fastboot ROMs for China, Global, India, Indonesia, and EEA, plus the popular Xiaomi.eu custom ROM.
Important: You must verify your device is the original 2019 Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo). This firmware is not compatible with the NFC-enabled Redmi Note 8T (willow) or the 2021 refreshed version, the Redmi Note 8 2021 (biloba). Flashing the wrong firmware will brick your phone.
Quick Device Specs
- Device: Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo)
- Release year: 2019
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 665
- Display: 6.3″ IPS LCD
- Battery: 4000 mAh, 18W fast charging
- Original MIUI: Android 9 (Pie), MIUI 10
Required Downloads
| File / Tool | Download Link |
|---|---|
| Xiaomi Mi Flash Tool | Download Latest Version |
| Xiaomi USB Drivers | Included with Mi Flash Tool |
| Bootloader Unlock Tool | Official Mi Unlock Page |
Fastboot ROMs
| Region | Build | Android | Release Date | Download | Codename |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China | V12.5.5.0.RCOCNXM | 11.0 | 2022-08-01 | Download | ginkgo |
| Global | V12.5.2.0.RCOMIXM | 11.0 | 2022-02-16 | Download | ginkgo |
| Indonesia | V12.5.3.0.RCOIDXM | 11.0 | 2022-07-14 | Download | ginkgo |
| India | V12.5.2.0.RCOINXM | 11.0 | 2022-06-17 | Download | ginkgo |
| EEA | V12.5.12.0.RCOEUXM | 11.0 | 2022-11-27 | Download | ginkgo |
| Xiaomi.eu (Custom) | V12.5.5.0.RCOCNXM (Based) | 11.0 | — | Download | ginkgo |
How to Flash
For a step-by-step process, drivers, and troubleshooting, read our Ultimate Mi Flash Guide.
- Boot into Fastboot mode (Power + Volume Down).
- Extract the firmware (.tgz file) and select the main folder containing the
/imagesdirectory in Mi Flash Tool. - Select clean all for a safe installation (avoid clean all and lock unless you are on the correct stock ROM for your specific region).
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between the Redmi Note 8 and the Redmi Note 8T?
The primary difference is that the Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo) does not have an NFC chip. The Redmi Note 8T (willow) was released in certain markets to include NFC functionality for contactless payments.
Q2. Can I flash a Redmi Note 8T (willow) ROM on my Redmi Note 8?
No, this is not recommended. The hardware partitions are different due to the absence of the NFC module in the ginkgo model. Flashing the wrong firmware can lead to bugs or brick your device.
Q3. Is this firmware for the Redmi Note 8 (2021)?
No, absolutely not. Xiaomi released a refreshed “Redmi Note 8 (2021)” with the codename biloba. That model uses a MediaTek Helio G85 chipset and has completely different firmware. This page is only for the original 2019 Snapdragon version (ginkgo).
Q4. The Xiaomi.eu ROM is a .zip file. How do I install it?
The .zip file is a recovery-flashable ROM. You cannot use Mi Flash Tool. You must first unlock your bootloader, install a custom recovery like TWRP, and then flash the .zip file from within the recovery.
Troubleshooting
- Drivers: If your PC does not recognize the phone in fastboot mode, reinstall the Xiaomi USB drivers, run Mi Flash Tool as Administrator, or try a different USB port (USB 2.0 is often more stable).
- Fastboot errors:
- “error: not catch checkpoint” → This common error means you have selected the wrong folder. In Mi Flash Tool, be sure to select the parent folder that was created when you extracted the .tgz file, not the images folder inside it.
- “Anti rollback error” → You are attempting to flash an older firmware version than what is currently on the device. Xiaomi’s Anti-Rollback Protection (ARB) prevents this.
- EDL mode: For a hard-bricked phone that won’t enter fastboot, EDL mode is the last resort. It requires using hardware test points and is recommended for advanced users only.
