Changing mobile devices is often a source of stress, especially when it comes to accessing personal data. Xiaomi ecosystem owners face the need to transfer settings and contacts through Mi Account, which is a digital key that opens access to cloud storage, allows remote control of the device and protects against unauthorized access.
The process of restoring access to a new gadget requires attention to detail, errors in data entry or ignoring security settings can lead to a temporary lock, but with the right approach, the entire procedure takes no more than 10-15 minutes, after which you have full control over your data.
Below we will take a look at each step, from basic login to complex password situations, and it is important to understand that MIUI security is constantly being improved, so old methods may not work.
Preparation for data transfer and authorization
Before you start the recovery process, you need to make sure that you have a stable Internet connection. Wi-Fi network is preferable to mobile traffic, as during the initial synchronization can transmit a large amount of data. Also make sure that the battery of the new device is charged at least 40-50% so that a sudden shutdown does not interrupt critical configuration processes.
You need to know the phone number or email address that was linked to the profile. If you used the number, it must be active and be on the phone to receive. SMS-In the case of a change of SIM card, recovery through the number can be difficult, so it is always recommended to link backup email.
⚠️ Note: If you changed your phone number but didn’t untie it from your old device, the recovery process may take much longer due to security checks.
Check if the new device has the latest version of the MIUI or HyperOS operating system.Outdated software sometimes contains bugs that interfere with the correct operation of Xiaomi Cloud services. Updating to the latest available version minimizes the risk of errors during authorization.
Standard login procedure on a new device
The authorization process on the new smartphone starts automatically when you first activate or through settings. First, go to the Settings → Mi Account menu. The system will prompt you to log in to an existing profile or register for a new one. Select the login option to continue.
In the window that opens, enter your ID, which may be your phone number, email or account ID, and then click the Continue button, the system will send the verification code in the selected way, and enter the code in the appropriate field to verify your identity.
☑️ Checking before entering
Once the code is successfully entered, the system can request a password. If you remember your password, enter it. If two-factor authentication is enabled, you will need confirmation through a trusted device or an authenticator application, and then you will start synchronizing the data with the cloud.
Restoring access with a forgotten password
If you don't remember your password, don't panic. On the login screen, click on the Forgot Password link. You'll be redirected to the recovery page via your browser. You'll need to enter your phone number or email registered in your profile. The system will offer several confirmation options.
The first is via SMS. The confirmation code will come to the associated number, you can enter it, you can set a new password, the second way is through a backup email, the email with the reset link will come to the mail, the third option is relevant if two-factor protection is enabled: the code can be obtained through a security application on another trusted device.
⚠️ Note: After resetting your password, login to new devices may be temporarily restricted to 24 hours for security reasons.
In the rare cases where neither the number nor the mail are available, you will have to go through the process of verifying your identity, which will require a scan of the document or data on recent purchases in the Mi Store, the process can take from several hours to several days.
What to do if SIM-missing?
Two-factor authentication and trusted devices
Two-factor authentication (2FA) greatly enhances the security of your profile. When you try to sign in from a new device, the confirmation code can come not only in SMS, but also in the push notification on an old, already authorized phone, which is convenient when you do not have a SIM card at hand.
To manage trusted devices, go to the account security section, which displays a list of all the gadgets you logged in from, you can delete unfamiliar devices or those you no longer use, and this will break their connection to your profile.
Using authentication applications such as Google Authenticator or the built-in MIUI code generator is a reliable alternative to SMS. When setting up 2FA, save the provided backup codes in a safe place. They will come in handy if you lose access to the phone that the codes are coming to.
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Save backup two-factor authentication codes in the password manager or write down on paper. Gallery screenshots may not be available if the phone is locked.
Synchronization of data after restoration of access
Once you successfully log in to your Mi Account, the new device starts to sync, and in the cloud settings menu, you can choose which data to download, usually contacts, messages, notes, voice recordings and system settings.
For photos and videos, Xiaomi Cloud or Google Photos is used, depending on your settings. The gallery can be downloaded gradually as you use Wi-Fi. It is not recommended to interrupt this process to avoid corruption of the database of media files.
Apps downloaded earlier can be automatically installed from GetApps or Google Play if the appropriate backup option has been enabled.Shopping list and download history are also saved in the profile, allowing you to quickly restore the working environment.
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Full synchronization of a large amount of data (over 10 GB) can take hours even on fast Wi-Fi.
Common mistakes and ways to solve them
Users often encounter an error such as “Incorrect password” or “Account not found.” In the first case, check the keyboard layout and input language; in the second case, make sure that you enter the exact identifier (email or phone) that was used when registering. A common mistake is confusion between regional accounts (e.g. Russia and Global).
The "Too many attempts to log in" error occurs when you have frequent failed password inputs, in which case the system blocks the ability to log in for a certain time, unlocks automatically after the timer expires, forced methods will not help here. You just have to wait for the specified time.
Network issues can also interfere with recovery: If the login page doesn't load, try switching from Wi-Fi to mobile internet or vice versa. Sometimes cleaning the cache of the Services and Feedback app or Mi Account through the application management menu helps.
| Type of error | Possible cause | Method of decision |
|---|---|---|
| Code doesn't come | Operator problems or spam filters | Check Spam folder, reboot phone |
| Account blocked | Suspicious activity | Change password through the site, pass verification |
| Network error | Unstable connection | Change the DNS, switch the network type |
| The wrong region | Account created in another country | Change the region in the phone settings before entering |