The Redmi Note 8T (codename willow), launched in late 2019, was Xiaomi’s smart answer to market demand. It took the globally successful formula of the Redmi Note 8 and added one of the most requested features for the European and global markets: multi-function NFC. This made the device a more complete package, enabling convenient contactless payments. The phone retained all the strengths of its sibling, including the reliable Snapdragon 665 chipset, a versatile 48MP AI quad-camera, and a durable 4000 mAh battery. For users needing to unbrick, downgrade, or perform a clean install on their device, this page provides official fastboot ROMs for Global, Russia, and EEA regions, plus the popular community-driven Xiaomi.eu custom ROM.
Important: You must verify your device codename is willow. The Redmi Note 8T is hardware-distinct from the standard Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo). Flashing ginkgo firmware on a willow device will cause hardware malfunctions (like a dead NFC chip) or may brick your phone.
Quick Device Specs
- Device: Redmi Note 8T (willow)
- Release year: 2019
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 665
- Display: 6.3″ IPS LCD, FHD+
- 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global | V12.5.6.0.RCXMIXM | 11.0 | 2022-06-23 | Download | willow |
| Russia | V12.5.1.0.RCXRUXM | 11.0 | 2021-12-28 | Download | willow |
| EEA | V12.5.5.0.RCXEUXM | 11.0 | 2022-05-29 | Download | willow |
| Xiaomi.eu (Custom) | V12.5.6.0.RCXMIXM (Based) | 11.0 | — | Download | willow |
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 region).
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between the Redmi Note 8T and the standard Redmi Note 8?
The main and most important difference is that the Redmi Note 8T (willow) includes a multi-function NFC chip for contactless payments, which is absent in the standard Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo).
Q2. Can I flash a Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo) ROM on my Redmi Note 8T?
No, you absolutely must not. The hardware partitions are different due to the NFC module. Flashing ginkgo firmware on a willow device will lead to bugs, a non-functional NFC chip, or even a hard brick.
Q3. What was the last official update for the Redmi Note 8T?
The Redmi Note 8T launched with Android 9 (Pie) and received its final major OS update to Android 11. Its last major MIUI version was MIUI 12.5.
Q4. The Xiaomi.eu ROM is a .zip file. How do I flash it?
The .zip file is a recovery-flashable ROM. It cannot be used with 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, try reinstalling the Xiaomi USB drivers or using 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. Ensure you select the main extracted folder, not the images sub-folder.
- “Anti rollback error” → You are trying 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 completely bricked phone that won’t enter fastboot, EDL mode is the last resort. It often requires a special cable or test points and is recommended for advanced users only.
