How to turn off the screen lock on Xiaomi Redmi Note 4

Xiaomi’s Redmi Note 4 series has been well-deservedly popular for years due to its balance between performance and affordable cost. However, over time, users may find themselves in a situation where the standard unlock procedure becomes unnecessary or, conversely, irritates with its constant presence. Often there is a need to completely remove the protection so as not to enter a pin code every time a device is turned on, or you need to reset a forgotten password to restore access to the system.

The procedure for disabling the screen lock on the MIUI (the shell installed on the smartphone) has its own nuances that distinguish it from pure Android. Depending on what method of protection was used before — a pattern lock, a digital password, complex code or biometrics — the algorithm of actions can vary slightly.

In this guide, we will discuss all possible scenarios in detail, from the regular disabling of the password through the settings menu to more complex methods of restoring access if the password is lost. We will look at the work with Mi Account, the features of unlocking fingerprint and face, and also touch on the issues of resetting through Recovery Mode. Be careful when performing operations related to a complete reset, as this can lead to data loss.

Staff disabling password through system settings

The easiest and safest way to remove protection is to use the operating system's regular settings menu, which is suitable for those cases where you remember the current password or key and have full access to the desktop, first you need to unlock the device in the usual way and go to the main application menu.

Find the Settings icon (usually a gray gear) and tap it. In the settings list that opens, you scroll down to the Passwords and Security section. This is where all the device access control tools are concentrated. The interface may vary depending on the version of MIUI, but the logic remains the same.

Inside, select Screen Lock, and the system will immediately request proof of identity, asking you to enter your current password, graphics, or finger on the scanner, a standard security measure to prevent unauthorized changes to security settings by unauthorized persons.

Once you have successfully logged in, you will be able to access a lock type selection menu, and you will see the active method (e.g., pattern lock or Key "PIN-Click on it to change the settings. In the window that opens, select the option No or Disable. The system will warn you that all stored unlock data (fingerprints, face data) will be deleted.

⚠️ Note: When you disable the screen lock, the system will automatically delete all your stored fingerprints and facial recognition data, and you will have to reconfigure them if you decide to return the protection in the future.

Confirm your actions by entering the password from the Mi Account if it is tied to the device, or simply agreeing to the warning. After that, when you turn on the screen, the smartphone will no longer request any login data.

Biometric Protection Management: Imprint and Face

Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 owners often use the fingerprint scanner located on the back of the device for quick access, but there are situations when biometrics need to be temporarily or permanently disabled, and the management of these settings is also in the Passwords and Security section.

To work with fingerprints, select Unlock fingerprint. Here you will see a list of added fingers. To remove a particular fingerprint, click on the appropriate number and select Delete. If you want to deactivate the function completely, use the switch at the top of the screen.

And so it's the same with facial recognition, although on the Redmi Note 4, it's software-based, using a front-facing camera, which is less secure than a fingerprint scanner, but is more convenient in some scenarios, and you can turn it off from the Face Unlock menu.

It is important to note that biometric data is stored in a secure partition of memory and is not transferred to the company’s servers. However, if you sell a device or transfer it to another user, be sure to delete all biometric profiles before resetting your settings.

• 👆 The fingerprint scanner on the Redmi Note 4 responds to touches even when the screen is off, allowing you to instantly unlock the device.
• 📸 Software facial recognition requires good lighting and can be wrong when a strong change in the user’s appearance.
• 🔒 Deleting the screen password automatically invalidates the possibility of using biometrics, since it needs a basis in the form of a digital code.

💡

If the fingerprint scanner stopped responding after updating the firmware, try removing old prints and writing them back down by pressing your finger tightly against the sensor.

What to do if you forget your password or pattern lock

Forgotten passwords are one of the most common reasons for contacting service centers, although often the problem can be solved by yourself, and if you can't remember a combination of numbers or a pattern, the standard path through settings is closed, and then you have to resort to more radical measures.

The first and easiest way to work if sync is enabled is to use the Forgot Password feature on the input screen, but on modern versions of MIUI, this option often requires an active Internet connection and a username/password from Mi Account, which was previously associated with the phone.

If you don't have an account or you don't remember the data from it, the only option is to completely reset the device to factory settings through Recovery mode, which will delete all user data: photos, contacts, messages and installed applications, so it should be resorted to only as a last resort.

⚠️ Warning: After resetting the settings on the device, protection may work FRP (Factory Reset Protection: You will need to enter a Google account that was synced to your phone before being blocked.

To enter recovery mode on the Redmi Note 4, you need to turn off the smartphone completely. Then press the volume button and the power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power, continuing to keep the volume until the Recovery menu appears.

Resetting through Recovery Mode: step-by-step instructions

Recovery is a service environment that allows you to perform low-level operations with the device. Navigation is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice of item is confirmed by the power button. Be careful when choosing options.

In the main Recovery menu, select a language (if you have a choice) or go to Wipe Data immediately. The system will warn you that all data will be destroyed. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.

The formatting process takes from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. The screen will display the progress bar. Once the operation is complete, you will see the message "Data wiped successfully." Now you need to select the option Reboot and then Reboot to System to restart.

The first turn on after the reset will take longer than usual, as the system will create new configuration files.

Comparison of protection methods on Xiaomi Redmi Note 4

The choice of locking method depends on how important data is stored on your device and how often you are willing to sacrifice unlock time for security.

As you can see from the table, the complete lack of protection (the “No” method) provides maximum comfort, but leaves the device vulnerable to anyone who picks it up.

The fingerprint scanner on the Redmi Note 4 is fast and reliable, but it requires a finger (which can be a problem if your hands are wet or dirty). + standby PIN-code is the best solution for most users.

Advanced settings and automation

For users who want to flexibly manage locking, there are third-party apps and built-in automation features, such as setting up smart unlock when the phone doesn’t require a password in trusted places (at home or work) if connected to a specific Wi-Fi or Bluetooth device.

MIUI has a Smart Lock feature that lets you leave your device unlocked while it’s in your pocket (thanks to the proximity sensor) or when it’s connected to a trusted Bluetooth gadget, such as a smartwatch or car stereo.

To set up Smart Lock, go to Settings → Passwords & Security → Privacy → Smart Lock. You can add trusted devices and places here. This doesn’t turn off the protection completely, but makes its presence less intrusive in a secure environment.

Also worth mentioning is the possibility of using launcher apps or specialized security utilities that can offer additional layers of protection for specific applications, even if the main screen is unlocked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

💡

Disabling the screen lock completely greatly improves usability, but makes all your data available to anyone who picks up the phone.