With the latest and greatest chipset under the hood, there isn’t much in the way of dullness. Snappy app launches, fast enough shutter responses and gaming performance that is actually enhanced by the quad speakers in a stereo configuration, tuned by Harman Kardon…the 12 Pro is well rounded where it matters. Dig deeper into the settings and you’ll also encounter a ton of customisation options like keeping a floating window open at all times, handy if you like taking notes a lot or want music piping through your cans constantly. There’s even a Samsung-esque edge panel, called Side Bar that can hold up to 10 most frequently used apps so you don’t have to get into the app drawer.
Xiaomi hasn’t yet been able to leave its inherent demons behind and bloatware is everywhere, including random and dubious ads that might pop up during an app launch, or signing up for more than you asked for just for using a file-sharing app. There are more permissions asked than a 6yr old would ask at a candy store and it could get tiring.
Having said that, MiUI does have its upsides too, especially when it comes to battery management that gives you explicit information about how much time you’ll be gaining by closing specific apps and how you want your battery health to be managed. Turning off features and services could be game-changing if you prefer keeping the display at its full resolution, highest brightness and maximum refresh rate at all times.