Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO mobile devices contain a huge array of personal information that must be protected. The pattern lock remains one of the most popular and convenient ways to lock the screen, allowing you to quickly unlock the device with a finger movement. However, situations vary: the current password may be seen by outsiders, or you just want to improve the security of your MIUI or HyperOS system.
The procedure for changing the access code does not require deep technical knowledge, but requires attention to the details of the menu. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the steps of changing the graphic pattern, as well as the related settings that will help to avoid access problems in the future, you will learn how to properly configure alternative methods of unlocking and what to do if you forget the old code.
Before you make any changes, make sure the device is charged and stable. Any manipulation of the system security settings requires care to avoid permanently locking the gadget. Below is a detailed guide that will suit most of the modern models of the Chinese brand.
Preparation for changing the security key
Before you make changes to your security settings, make sure you have access to your current security settings. PIN-If you lose access, you'll need a complete data reset procedure, which we'll talk about in the appropriate section.
It's important to understand that changing the lock screen password will affect not only unlocking the display, but also accessing hidden files, second space, and some system functions. Security in MIUI shells often links these settings into a single security node, so when you change one element, you automatically update access to the associated services.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure you remember the Mi Account associated with the device. Once the password is changed, the system may require a re-authorization to verify the identity of the owner.
It’s also worth checking if synchronization of important data is enabled. Although changing a password doesn’t delete information, random errors when entering new data can lead to a temporary lock on the device, and it’s recommended to have an alternative way of login on hand, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition, if they’re already set up.
Step-by-step instructions for changing the password
The process of changing the pattern lock on Xiaomi smartphones is standardized, but the names of menu items may vary slightly depending on the firmware version. The main path is through the main menu of system settings. You will need to find the section responsible for security and privacy settings.
Follow the algorithm below to successfully update the data to access:
- 📱 Open the Settings app on the home screen or in the notification curtain.
- 🔒 Go to Passwords and Security (some versions may simply refer to Security as “Security).
- 🔑 Select Screen Lock or Protection Type.
- ✏️ Enter the current graphic or digital code to confirm administrator rights.
- 🖍️ Click on the option to change the protection type or change the password and draw a new pattern.
☑️ Checklist before changing password
Once you draw a new one, the system will ask you to re-enter it, and that's a critical point: the pattern lock must be entered exactly the same way twice in a row, and if the trajectory doesn't match even by a millimeter, you'll have to start over.
After a successful data change, the system will suggest setting up additional settings, such as displaying a password on the lock screen or using smart unlock. Don't ignore these suggestions, as they can significantly simplify everyday smartphone use.
Configuring alternative unlocking methods
A pattern lock isn't the only way to protect your device. Today's Redmi and POCO smartphones are equipped with advanced biometric sensors. Using biometrics not only speeds access, but also increases security, as the unique physical characteristics of the user are harder to fake than remember a complex pattern.
It is recommended to configure at least one additional login method.This will allow you to access the phone if you forget the graphic pattern or stain the screen, which will make it impossible to enter the picture.
When setting up your fingerprint, follow the instructions on the screen, putting your finger on the scanner from different angles, which will improve recognition accuracy. For Face ID, provide good lighting during the scan, which is stored in a secure memory sector and not transmitted to the company's servers.
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Add a second fingerprint (like the other hand’s thumb) to make it easy to unlock the phone in any situation, even when it’s lying on the table.
It is worth noting that biometrics cannot completely replace a password when you first turn on your device after a reboot or after 72 hours of downtime, in which case entering a graphical or digital code is mandatory according to the Android security policy.
Table of comparison of protection methods
The choice of lock type depends on your priorities: speed of access or maximum data protection. Below is a comparison of the basic methods available on Xiaomi devices.
| Protection method | Level of security | Speed of access | Usability |
|---|---|---|---|
| pattern lock | Medium. | Tall. | High (habitual pattern) |
| Cyphrate PIN-code | High-pitched | Medium | Average (you need to remember the numbers) |
| Fingerprint. | Very tall. | Instant. | Very high. |
| Face unlocking | Medium/High | Instant. | High. |
As you can see from the table, a combination of methods is the best solution. A pattern lock is a reliable backup as long as biometrics provides comfort in everyday scenarios. However, if you are critical to protection against coercion, a complex digital password may be more reliable, since it is harder to see from the side than the trajectory of your finger.
Remember to change your passwords periodically, especially if you suspect someone may have been watching you unlock your device in a public place.
What to do if you forget your old password
The situation of the user forgetting the pattern lock is one of the most stressful. Unfortunately, in modern versions of Android and MIUI there is no simple “forgot password” button that would allow you to reset access without losing data unless special measures were taken in advance.
If you have enabled Find Device and remember the Mi Account password, you can try to unlock your phone remotely via the cloud service site. Go to i.mi.com from your computer or other phone, log in to your account and select the device unlock option.
⚠️ Warning: Remote unlocking via Mi-account does not work on all models and versions of firmware. If the option is not available, the only way out is a complete reset.
If the remote method doesn't work, you'll have to do a Hard Reset, which will completely remove all photos, contacts and apps from the phone's internal memory, and then reset:
- 🛑 Turn off the smartphone completely.
- 🔘 Press the on button and volume button at the same time.
- 📟 Wait for the logo to appear. MI or the Recovery menu.
- 🔄 With the volume buttons, select the Wipe Data item and confirm with the power button.
Why can’t you just reset your password without losing your data?
Once reset, the phone will start as new, and when you first set up, you'll need to enter your login and password from your Google account and your Mi Account that you've synced with before, which is FRP Lock, which you can't get around without your owner's data.
Recommendations for Creating a Trusted Key
The security of your device depends on the complexity of the drawing you create, and simple shapes like the letters "L", "Z" or "O" are the very first choices that attackers or password programs pick up.
When you think of a new graphic pattern, try to use at least 6 dots. Avoid straight lines and obvious geometric shapes. A good key should look like a chaotic interweaving of lines, without visual logic to the outside observer.
It is also useful to wipe your smartphone screen regularly. Fat fingerprints can reveal the trajectory of your key, especially on screens without oleophobic coating or in bright sunlight. Use an anti-reflective film to minimize this risk.
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A sophisticated pattern lock combined with regular screen cleaning of fingerprints significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your data.
Remember, the system allows you to configure the display or concealment of points when you enter a password, and in public places it is better to turn on the option of hiding points so that others can not visually read your drawing.