How to change the screen lock on the Xiaomi smartphone: all the ways and nuances

Forgot the password from Xiaomi or want to improve the security of the device? Changing the type of lock screen is one of the most popular procedures among smartphone owners of the brand. Depending on the model (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 11) and the firmware version (MIUI 12/13/14), the algorithm may differ slightly, but the general logic remains the same. In this article, we will analyze all the available methods: from standard change through settings to bypass locking when data is lost.

It is important to understand that the type of lock directly affects the level of protection of personal data, for example, a pattern lock is convenient but easy to peek, whereas an alphanumeric password with 12+ And if you use Xiaomi with symbols, it's the most reliable. AMOLED-And if you put a fingerprint or a face recognition on the screen, you'll have the optimal balance between speed and safety.

How to lock the screen on Xiaomi: which one to choose?

Modern Xiaomi smartphones support up to 5 types of lock screen, and their combination allows you to create multi-level protection.

• 🔢 PIN-code: 4-16 digits, quickly entered, but vulnerable to selection (especially short combinations like 1234 or date of birth).
• 🔑 Password: letters + figure + Maximum security, but inconvenient for frequent use.
• 🎨 pattern lock: 4-9 dots, convenient, but a fingerprint on the screen can give you a pattern.
• 👆 Fingerprint: only works on sensor-enabled models (e.g. Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi) K60). Quickly and reliably, but does not work with wet or dirty fingers.
• 👤 Facial recognition: Available on infrared camera devices (e.g. Mi 11 Ultra) convenient but less secure than a print.

Tip: Combine biometrics (fingerprint/face) with a password for maximum protection, for example, you can specify that you will need to enter the device after restarting the device. PIN-code even if the face unlock is enabled.

How to change the screen lock through MIUI settings

This is the standard method that works on all current firmware versions (MIUI 12-14) You will need a current password or PIN-code.

1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the Lock Screen section (in some versions – Password and Security → Screen Lock).
3. Enter your current password/PIN to confirm.
4. Select a new type of lock from the list (for example, Password instead of pattern lock).
5. Follow the instructions on the screen: come up with a new combination and confirm it.

Note: If you choose a fingerprint, the system will first require you to set a backup unlock method (PIN or password) in case the sensor fails or the fingers are wet.

Features of changing the lock on different models Xiaomi

Although the general algorithm is the same, some models have nuances. POCO F5 Or the Redmi Note 12 Pro.+ s AMOLED-The Always-on Display feature is available on the display, which displays time and notifications even on a locked screen, and if you change the lock type, this feature can reset — you have to configure it again.

Other differences:

Budget models (such as the Redmi 10A or POCO M5) may not have a fingerprint sensor, leaving only a PIN, password or pattern lock.

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If your fingerprint is missing after changing the lock, go to Settings → Password and Security → Fingerprint Sensor and add it again.

What to do if you forget your Xiaomi password?

Forgetting your password is one of the most common reasons for contacting service centers, and luckily, Xiaomi has several ways to restore access without losing data (if you have a Mi Account attached).

• 📧 Recovery via Mi Account: on the tap lock screen Forgot the password? → Enter the username and password from your Xiaomi account. The device will be unlocked, but you will need to install a new one. PIN/password.
• 📱 Fastboot Reset: Suitable for advanced users. Requires an unlocked bootloader and PC with drivers installed ADB.
• 🔧 Reset to factory settings: extreme method, erases all data. + In the recovery menu, select Wipe Data.

⚠️ Note: if the device is enabled Find Device, after reset via recovery, you may need to enter data from your previous Mi Account. Without them, the smartphone will become a brick».

For models with a Qualcomm chip (for example, POCO X3 Pro or Redmi Note 11 Pro is a method of unlocking through the EDL-The system requires special equipment and is often blocked by the manufacturer.

How to remove the screen lock completely?

You can disable screen locking on Xiaomi, but it significantly reduces security.Be aware that without protection, anyone can access your data, calls and payments (if bank cards are tied).

Instructions:

1. Open the Settings → Lock screen.
2. Enter the current password/PIN.
3. Select the option No (or Swipe – unblock swipe).
4. Confirm the action.

⚠️ Note: on some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T) After disabling the lock, the Smart Lock function ceases to work (automatic unlock in trusted places).

If the option is not available, then the device has a security policy (for example, through Android Enterprise or corporate profile), in which case the lock cannot be removed.

Additional security settings on Xiaomi

In addition to the type of lock, MIUI has hidden features that enhance protection:

• 🔒 Application Blocking: You can set a separate password for Gallery, Messages or Settings through Settings → Password and security → Application lockdown.
• 📍 Smart Lock: Automatically unlock in trusted locations (home, work) or when connected to a trusted device (e.g. Mi Band).
• 🛡️ Protection against accidental pressing: in Settings → Lock screen → Additionally, you can enable an option that blocks swipes on a locked screen.
• 🔄 Autolock: Set the time of inactivity to lock (from 5 seconds to 30 minutes).

On models with MIUI 14, the “Private Mode” feature has been introduced, which allows you to hide notifications on the lock screen for selected applications, which is useful if you do not want outsiders to see the content of messages from Telegram or WhatsApp.

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Even if you have disabled the screen lock, the Mi Account remains tied to the device, which means that after resetting, you may need to enter account data to activate.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When changing locks, users often face typical problems, and here are the most common ones and how to solve them:

Another common mistake is using the same password to lock and lock Mi. This is not secure: if an attacker picks up a password, they will gain access to both the device and cloud data, and different combinations are recommended.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions