How to activate Xiaomi after resetting: full instruction with error solutions

Resetting Xiaomi to factory settings is only half the battle. The main challenge begins after a reboot, when the phone requires activation, binding to a Mi Account account, or suddenly emits errors like “This device is tied to another account.” Especially difficult for those who bought a used device or forgot data from an old profile. In this article, we will analyze all the stages of activation after a hard reset — from basic settings to bypassing locks, taking into account the nuances for different models (Redmi, POCO, Mi) and versions of MIUI.

It is important to understand that the activation process after reset depends on whether the device was associated with Mi Account, whether the Find Device function is enabled, and which version of the firmware is installed. For example, on Xiaomi with MIUI 14+, the algorithm is different from the older versions, and on some models (Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO F3), additional verification via SMS may be required. We have collected current methods for 2026, including bypassing locks without losing data (if the reset was performed incorrectly).

Why Xiaomi needs activation after reset

Once you reset your Hard Reset, any Xiaomi smartphone will start the initial setup procedure, just like when you first turn on. But unlike the new device, there are three key nuances:

• 🔒 Mi Account binding: If a Xiaomi account is activated on the phone and Find Device is enabled, the system will require you to enter a username / password from it (FRP-lockdown).
• 📱 Device status: Phones with official firmware (Global/EEA) and unlocked bootloader behave differently than devices on custom firmware or with a locked bootloader.
• ⚙️ Version. MIUI: Starting with MIUI 12.5, the activation algorithm became more complicated - the verification was added through SMS or backup mail if the primary account is not available.

If you reset your Xiaomi phone and remember the Mi Account data, it takes 5-10 minutes, but if you get your hands on it or lose it, you'll have to use workarounds, from re-accessing your account to flashing it through Fastboot.

Preparing for activation: what to do before resetting

If you plan to reset in advance (like before selling your phone), follow these steps to avoid activation issues:

1. Untie Mi Account: Go to Settings → Xiaomi Account → Log out. This removes the device’s association to the profile and disables Find Device.
2. Delete all Google accounts: In Settings → Accounts. → Google delete all profiles. This will prevent you from doing so. FRP-Google lockdown.
3. Save Backup: Use Mi Cloud or Local Saving in Settings → Additional → Backup.
4. Remember IMEI: Dial *#06# and write down both IMEI numbers, which you will need to unlock if something goes wrong.

If the reset is already done and you encounter an account request, move to the next section. If the phone is not yours (bought by hand), first try to contact the previous owner - without his data, it will be more difficult to circumvent the lock.

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If you sell a phone, reset before you delete your Xiaomi account, and when you log out, the device will automatically unplug the Mi Account, so the new owner won’t have to activate it.

Xiaomi’s standard activation after reset (if you know the Mi Account data)

If you remember the username and password from Mi Account, the activation process will take a few minutes.

1. Select the language: After reset, the phone will suggest choosing the interface language. We recommend that you install English (USA) - it is easier to navigate the menu.
2. Connect to Wi-Fi: Without the Internet, activation is impossible. If Wi-Fi is not working, use mobile data (if you have no Internet connection). SIM-map already inserted).
3. Enter Mi Account: The screen will show a request for authorization, provide an email or phone number associated with the account and a password.
4. Confirm Login: If two-factor authentication is enabled, enter the code from SMS or email.
5. Set up your phone: After successful authorization, follow the setup wizard – select a region, agree to the terms of use, etc.

If at this point, the error “This device is linked to another account” occurs, then the previous owner did not untie it from his profile, in which case, proceed to the section about bypassing the lock.

Selected English interface language

Connecting to a stable Wi-Fi

Data from Mi Account at hand

VPN disabled (can block Xiaomi servers)

Battery charge > 50%-->

What to do if you don’t remember your Mi Account

If you forgot your password or email from Mi Account, but your phone was yours, try to restore access:

1. Recovery via email/SMS: On the login screen, click "Forgot your password?" Specify the email or phone number associated with your account. Follow the instructions in the email or SMS to reset your password.
2. Recovery via backup: If the primary email is unavailable, try using a backup (as indicated at registration). On the recovery page, select "Other Way" → "Backup Email".

Appeal for Xiaomi support

• If recovery is not working, contact support via account.xiaomi.com.
• Provide proof of ownership of the device (checks, IMEI, photo box).

If the phone is purchased from hand and the previous owner has not untied the account, contact him and ask:

• 📧 Send you a username/password from Mi Account (after activation, you can change your password).
• 🔄 Untie the device remotely via i.mi.com (Find Device section»).

Bypassing the lock Mi Account after reset (if the used phone)

If you can't contact the previous owner and Xiaomi's support refuses to help, technical methods of bypassing remain.Caution: they require unlocking the bootloader and can lead to loss of warranty or "bricking" of the device. Use them at your own risk.

The most reliable way for beginners is through Fastboot, and here is a quick guide:

1. Unlock the bootloader through the official Mi Unlock tool (requires account binding and waits 7-15 days).
2. Download Fastboot firmware for your model from the Xiaomi Firmware website.
3. Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (clip Volume Down + Power when your phone is off).
4. Run the firmware through the command: fastboot flash all [name file firmware].tgz

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Fastboot removes all data, including the Mi Account lock, but requires an unlocked bootloader. Without unlocking, this method won't work!

⚠️ Attention: Methods using EDL Test Point is only for experienced users, and the wrong actions can turn your phone into a brick.

Solving common activation errors

When activating Xiaomi after a reset, users often encounter errors, and here are the most common ones and ways to fix them:

• 🚫 «This device is tied to another account": "Means the phone is not detached from the old Mi Account. Solutions: Ask the previous owner to untie the device via i.mi.com. Use workaround techniques (see previous section).
• ❌ «Failed to connect to the server": "Problem with the Internet or Xiaomi servers. Check: Wi-Fi stability (try mobile Internet). VPN Check the status of Xiaomi servers on the Downdetector website.
• ⏳ «Account locked for 72 hours": Activates after multiple failed password attempts. Solutions: Wait 72 hours and try again.Restore access via backup email or SMS.

If the error persists, try resetting your phone again with the internet turned off (at the Wi-Fi selection stage, click “Skip”), which sometimes allows you to skip authorization, but does not work on all models.

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If the phone asks for a password from a Google account (FRP-Blocking, and you don’t remember it, use the tool FRP Bypass for your model. Instructions are easy to find on forums like 4PDA or XDA Developers.

Xiaomi Activation without Mi Account: Possible Risks

Some users are trying to activate Xiaomi without being tied to the Mi Account using workarounds or custom firmware. This is possible, but has serious drawbacks:

• 🔴 Loss of functionality: Xiaomi services: Mi Cloud, Find Device, themes, synchronization will not work (OTA).
• 🛡️ Security concerns: Without Mi Account, it's impossible to use Find Device to search for a phone when stolen.Some banking apps can block work on "uncertified" devices.
• ⚠️ The risk of locking: Xiaomi can lock the device remotely if it detects a security bypass. (Redmi Note 11, POCO X4) without an account, it is impossible to use NFC or Google Pay.

⚠️ Note: If you still decide to use a phone without a Mi Account, install custom firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience).This will remove all Xiaomi restrictions, but require unlocking the bootloader and technical skills.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi activation after reset