Is There a One UI Custom ROM for the Redmi Note 9 (Merlin)? Your Ultimate Guide

The Redmi Note 9, codenamed “merlin,” remains a popular device due to its affordability and decent hardware. Many users, however, seek to enhance their experience beyond the stock MIUI interface. One of the most sought-after modifications is installing a custom ROM that mimics the look and feel of Samsung’s One UI. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the feasibility of achieving this, exploring available options, potential pitfalls, and the installation process itself. We aim to provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision and successfully transform your Redmi Note 9 into a One UI powerhouse.

Understanding the Appeal of One UI on the Redmi Note 9

Samsung’s One UI is lauded for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and a plethora of features tailored for ease of use. Its key strengths lie in:

• Intuitive Navigation: One UI prioritizes one-handed use, placing interactive elements at the bottom of the screen, making it easier to reach them on larger devices.
• Visual Clarity: The interface boasts a clean and modern aesthetic with large icons, rounded corners, and a focus on visual hierarchy, improving readability and reducing eye strain.
• Feature-Rich Experience: One UI comes packed with features like Secure Folder, Always On Display, Bixby Routines, and Samsung DeX (on compatible devices), offering a comprehensive user experience.
• Improved Performance: Samsung continually optimizes One UI for performance, resulting in a smoother and more responsive experience compared to some other Android skins.

For Redmi Note 9 users, the desire for One UI stems from a desire to experience these benefits without switching to a Samsung device. MIUI, while functional, can feel cluttered and resource-intensive to some users. One UI offers a refreshing alternative with a cleaner, more streamlined approach.

Exploring Available One UI-Inspired Custom ROMs for the Redmi Note 9 (Merlin)

While a direct port of Samsung’s official One UI for the Redmi Note 9 “merlin” is unlikely due to hardware and software differences, several custom ROMs aim to replicate the One UI experience. These ROMs are developed by independent developers within the Android community and strive to bring the look and feel of One UI to non-Samsung devices. It’s crucial to understand that these are inspired by One UI, not direct ports, and may have variations in features and performance.

• Pixel Experience Plus: While not strictly a One UI ROM, Pixel Experience Plus often incorporates elements of modern Android design, which shares some visual similarities with One UI. It also focuses on stability and performance, making it a solid base for further customization. Users can then use various Substratum or Magisk modules to customize elements such as icons and other visual themes to more closely match the look and feel of OneUI.
• Evolution X: Evolution X is another popular custom ROM known for its customization options and performance enhancements. Like Pixel Experience Plus, it offers a clean base that can be further customized to resemble One UI. Look for themes and modules designed to mimic One UI elements.
• AOSP Extended: AOSP Extended is known for its stability and extensive customization options. Although not directly based on One UI, its level of customization allows users to tailor the look and feel to their preference, potentially achieving a One UI-inspired aesthetic.
• DerpFest: DerpFest is a custom ROM focused on providing a balance between features and stability. It offers various customization options, allowing users to tweak the interface to resemble One UI. Exploring themes and mods designed for One UI aesthetics can further enhance the transformation.
• ArrowOS: ArrowOS is a lightweight and efficient custom ROM that prioritizes performance and battery life. While not directly resembling One UI, its clean design and customization options make it a viable option for users looking to create a One UI-inspired experience through themes and modifications.

It’s important to actively search online forums, such as XDA Developers, to find the most up-to-date information on available custom ROMs for the Redmi Note 9 (merlin). Keep in mind that ROM development is an ongoing process, and new ROMs may emerge, while older ones may become outdated.

Key Considerations Before Installing a Custom ROM

Before embarking on the journey of installing a custom ROM, it’s essential to understand the potential risks and requirements involved.

• Backup Your Data: This is paramount. Installing a custom ROM requires unlocking the bootloader and wiping your device’s data. Back up all your important data, including contacts, photos, videos, and documents, to a safe location, such as a computer or cloud storage.
• Unlock the Bootloader: Unlocking the bootloader is a prerequisite for installing custom ROMs. This process voids your device’s warranty in most cases. Follow the official Xiaomi unlocking procedure, which typically involves waiting for a specified period.
• Install a Custom Recovery: A custom recovery, such as TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project), is necessary to flash custom ROMs. Download the correct TWRP image for your Redmi Note 9 (merlin) and follow the instructions to install it using Fastboot.
• Understand the Risks: Installing custom ROMs can be risky. Incorrect flashing or incompatible ROMs can lead to bootloops, soft bricks, or even hard bricks, rendering your device unusable. Proceed with caution and ensure you thoroughly understand the instructions before proceeding.
• Check for Compatibility: Verify that the custom ROM you intend to install is specifically designed for the Redmi Note 9 (merlin). Flashing a ROM designed for a different device can cause irreparable damage.
• Research the ROM: Read reviews and forum discussions about the ROM you plan to install. Pay attention to user feedback regarding stability, bugs, and performance.
• Battery Life and Performance: Custom ROMs can affect battery life and performance. Some ROMs may offer better battery optimization than others, while some may prioritize performance over battery life. Choose a ROM that aligns with your priorities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Custom ROM on the Redmi Note 9 (Merlin)

This guide provides a general overview of the custom ROM installation process. Specific steps may vary depending on the ROM and recovery you are using. Always refer to the ROM developer’s instructions for the most accurate guidance.

1. Download the ROM and GApps (if needed): Download the custom ROM .zip file and, if the ROM doesn’t include Google apps (GApps), download a compatible GApps package (e.g., Open GApps, NikGApps). Transfer both files to your device’s internal storage or an external SD card.
2. Boot into TWRP Recovery: Power off your device and then press and hold the Power and Volume Up buttons simultaneously until the TWRP recovery screen appears.
3. Backup Your Current ROM (Optional but Recommended): In TWRP, select “Backup” and choose the partitions you want to back up (e.g., System, Data, Boot). This allows you to restore your device to its previous state if something goes wrong.
4. Wipe Data/Factory Reset: In TWRP, select “Wipe” and then “Advanced Wipe.” Select the following partitions: Dalvik/ART Cache, Cache, System, and Data. Swipe to wipe. Note: This will erase all data on your device.
5. Flash the Custom ROM: In TWRP, select “Install” and navigate to the location where you saved the ROM .zip file. Select the file and swipe to flash.
6. Flash GApps (if needed): If you downloaded a GApps package, repeat the installation process to flash the GApps .zip file.
7. Wipe Cache/Dalvik Cache: After flashing the ROM and GApps, select “Wipe” and then “Wipe Cache/Dalvik Cache.” This can help prevent boot loops.
8. Reboot Your Device: Select “Reboot” and then “System.” Your device will now boot into the newly installed custom ROM. The first boot may take several minutes.

Customizing Your ROM to Resemble One UI

Once you’ve installed a custom ROM, you can further customize it to resemble One UI using various methods:

• Icon Packs: Download and install icon packs from the Google Play Store that mimic the One UI icon style. Some popular options include “One UI Icon Pack” and “LineX Icon Pack.”
• Launchers: Install a custom launcher that allows for extensive customization. Nova Launcher, Lawnchair Launcher, and Smart Launcher are excellent choices. Configure the launcher settings to match the One UI aesthetic, such as using rounded icons, adjusting grid size, and setting custom gestures.
• Themes: Explore custom themes designed for your chosen ROM. Some themes may specifically target One UI replication. You can use a theme engine like Substratum (requires root) to apply themes system-wide.
• Magisk Modules: Magisk modules can be used to modify various aspects of your system, including the user interface. Search for Magisk modules that provide One UI-style features, such as the One UI system fonts, notification panel tweaks, and quick settings icons. You can find these modules in the Magisk Module Repository.
• Wallpapers: Download One UI wallpapers from the internet and set them as your home screen and lock screen backgrounds.
• Fonts: Change the system font to a One UI-style font. You can find font files online and install them using Magisk modules or custom font apps.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Installing custom ROMs can sometimes lead to issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Bootloop: If your device gets stuck in a bootloop, try wiping the cache and Dalvik cache in TWRP. If that doesn’t work, restore your previous ROM backup or try flashing a different ROM.
• No Wi-Fi or Mobile Data: Ensure that you have flashed the correct firmware for your device. Sometimes, flashing the firmware separately can resolve connectivity issues.
• App Crashes: App crashes can occur due to compatibility issues with the custom ROM. Try clearing the app’s cache and data or reinstalling the app. If the issue persists, contact the ROM developer or search for solutions in online forums.
• Slow Performance: Slow performance can be caused by a resource-intensive ROM or conflicting apps. Try uninstalling unnecessary apps, clearing the cache, or switching to a lighter ROM.
• Battery Drain: Battery drain can be caused by a poorly optimized ROM or background processes. Try identifying battery-draining apps and uninstalling them or using battery-saving features.
• Google Play Services Errors: GApps errors can be resolved by flashing a compatible GApps package or clearing the Google Play Services cache and data.

The Future of Custom ROMs and One UI on the Redmi Note 9

The custom ROM community is constantly evolving, and new ROMs and modifications are regularly released. While a perfect One UI port for the Redmi Note 9 (merlin) may not be available, the options for achieving a One UI-inspired experience are constantly improving. As developers continue to refine existing ROMs and create new ones, users can expect to see even more feature-rich and customizable options in the future.

Disclaimer

Installing custom ROMs involves risks, and we are not responsible for any damage that may occur to your device. Proceed with caution and follow the instructions carefully. Always back up your data before making any modifications to your device.

Conclusion

While a direct One UI experience on the Redmi Note 9 (merlin) might not be feasible, various custom ROMs and customization options can help you achieve a similar look and feel. By carefully selecting a ROM, following the installation instructions, and customizing the interface with icon packs, launchers, and themes, you can transform your Redmi Note 9 into a One UI-inspired device. Remember to research thoroughly, back up your data, and proceed with caution. Good luck, and happy flashing!

Remember to regularly check the Magisk Module Repository for new and updated modules that can further enhance your One UI-inspired experience.