An Android operating system based on the MIUI shell can accumulate software debris over time, which slows down the device. If your Xiaomi Redmi 9 starts to work unstable, freeze or require sale before transferring to a new owner, the only right solution is a complete memory cleanup, a process often called "formatting", although it is technically more correct to call it a complete reset before factory settings.
This operation will return the smartphone to the state it was in immediately after the plant exited the assembly line, and all user data, including photos, contacts, installed apps and account logins, will be permanently deleted, which is why backup is a critical step that should not be neglected even in a hurry.
In this article, we’ll take a look at all the memory cleanup methods available on Redmi 9, from the standard settings menu to forced reset via the Recovery Engineering Menu. We’ll also discuss the nuances of working with a Google account and Mi Account so that after a reboot, the device won’t get locked by theft protection.
Preparing the device for a complete data reset
Before you start the active formatting phase, you need to make sure that the device is ready for the procedure. Ignoring the preparatory stage can lead to the loss of important data or interruption of the process at a critical stage, which will lead to software errors.
The device should be at least 60 percent chargeable, and ideally fully charged. It is energy-intensive to erase partitions and reinstall system files. If the phone turns off when you write system spreadsheets, it will be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to restore it without the use of specialized hardware and paid utilities.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure you remember the password from your Google and Mi Account. Once reset, the system will require authorization to confirm ownership of the device.
The next step is to back up, and Xiaomi smartphones have a handy tool built in to save not only contacts and messages, but also folder structure, alarm settings, and even desktop icon settings. Go to the settings menu, find the About section, or search by settings by typing in a backup request.
The saved backup file is best copied to your computer or cloud storage, as the internal memory will be cleared completely when formatted. Also, remember to remove the microSD card if installed so as not to accidentally format it along with the system partition, although modern versions of MIUI usually require confirmation for this action.
Method 1: Reset via the system settings menu
The most secure and recommended method of formatting Xiaomi Redmi 9 is the use of the standard functionality of the operation.--This is a way to do most things when the phone is turned on, the screen is touch-sensitive, and you can move freely around the interface, and it ensures that all background processes are closed correctly before cleaning starts.
To start, open the main app menu and find the Settings icon, which looks like a gear, and in the settings list that opens, you need to scroll down to the About Phone section. This is where the basic information about the device and the tools to manage its software are concentrated. Click on this item to go inside the menu.
At the top of the screen, you'll see the Reset button, and clicking on it will open a new window warning you that all data will be deleted, and the system will offer two options: Reset (without deleting files) and Erase all data. We need the second option for full formatting. After selection, the system may request the input of a pattern lock, PIN-screen unlock code or password.
- 🔒 Enter the current device access code to confirm identity.
- 📉 The system will automatically block your Mi Account for 7 days for security reasons, unless you untie it beforehand.
- 💾 The process will take 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of memory filled.
Once confirmed, the phone will restart and the Redmi logo will appear on the screen with a progress indicator, at which point it is strongly recommended not to interrupt the process.
☑️ Pre-reset check
Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode
If the operating system does not boot, the screen is stuck on the logo or touch input does not respond, you have to resort to the Hard Reset method. This method allows you to perform formatting at a low level, bypassing the Android interface. For Redmi 9, the procedure for entering recovery mode has its own features associated with the combination of buttons.
Turn off your smartphone completely. Make sure it's not in sleep or hibernation mode. Then press the volume button and the power button at the same time. Keep them pressed until the Mi logo appears, and then the power button can be released while you continue to hold the volume button.
When the Main Menu (Recovery) appears on the screen, the volume buttons (up/down) control the menu, and the power button selects the item. This is standard behavior for most Xiaomi devices. You need to find the "Wipe Data" item and select it.
⚠️ Warning: In Recovery mode, the touchscreen is not working. All actions are performed only with mechanical volume and power buttons.
In the next menu, select the option "Wipe All Data." The system will ask for the final confirmation - select "Confirm." Once the cleaning process is complete, the message "Data wiped successfully" will appear. Click "Back to Main Menu" and then select "Reboot" and "Reboot to System." The phone will start a long initial boot.
What to do if the Recovery menu is in Chinese?
Resetting via computer using ADB
For advanced users who have access to a computer, there is a USB debugging method, which requires pre-setting the smartphone, as it must activate the USB debugging function in the Developer Menu. If this option was enabled before problems arose, the method can save the situation.
You'll need to install ADB drivers on your PC and a minimal set of Platform Tools. Connect your phone with a cable to your computer and open the command line in the tool folder. Enter the adb device command to make sure the computer sees the device. If a device with a "device" status appears on the list, you can proceed.
To start formatting, enter the command:
adb shell recovery --wipe_dataOr alternatively:
adb reboot recoveryAfter the second command, the phone will reboot itself to Recovery mode, where you can reset with buttons, as described in the previous section, which is convenient because it allows you to initiate the process remotely if the buttons on the phone body are faulty.
It’s worth noting that without debugging enabled in advance, this method won’t work, and on modern versions of Android, when connecting to a new computer, you may need confirmation on your phone screen, making the method useless with a completely broken display.
Table of comparison of formatting methods
To make it easier for you to choose the right option, we have prepared a comparison table that will help you quickly assess the risks and requirements of each method for your specific situation with the Xiaomi Redmi 9.
| Method | Access required | Risk of data loss | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through Settings. | Screenwork, memory | Tall (all is erased) | Low. |
| Recovery (Buttons) | Working buttons | Tall (all is erased) | Medium |
| Through ADB | Included debugging | Tall (all is erased) | Tall. |
| Service centre | Physical access | Full (flashing) | N/D (for the user) |
As you can see from the table, the method through settings is the simplest, but it requires a working interface. The button method is a universal "rescue" that works even with a damaged operating system. The use of ADB is justified only in specific cases of diagnosis or remote control.
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If you plan to sell the phone, don't set it up after the reset, leave the welcome screen with the choice of language, which will show the customer that the device is clean and ready for a new activation.
Google Account Problem and FRP Protection
One of the most important security systems in Android is FRP (Factory Reset Protection), which is designed to protect the owner’s data in the event of theft or loss of a device. If a Google account has been entered on the phone, then after formatting, the system will require you to enter a password from this account.
This means that a simple button reset won’t bypass protection.If you forget the password from Google email that was synced to your phone, you may lose access to the device forever.Before formatting, it is strongly recommended to delete the account from your phone’s settings: Settings → Accounts and Sync → Google → Delete your account.
The same is true of Xiaomi’s Mi Account, where if Find Device is activated, the phone will lock and require a password from the Mi Account, and deleting the account before reset is the only guaranteed way to avoid locking.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a used phone, always check if the previous owner's account has been deleted. Having someone else's account makes the phone a useless "brick" after a reset.
Actions after completion of formatting
Once the phone has rebooted and you've seen the welcome screen, the initial setup phase begins. Don't rush to connect to open Wi-Fi networks if you're worried about security, although you need to activate the connection. Choose your language and region.
When you connect to the network, the system will check the status of the device. If it goes well, you can log in to your Google account. It's important not to confuse the order here: first enter your account so that the system knows you're the owner. If you're recovering from the backup, the system will suggest you select a backup file.
Data recovery can take a considerable amount of time, especially if you have chosen to recover photos and videos. It is recommended to connect your phone to the charger and stable Wi-Fi for this period. Once the data migration is complete, check the main functions: calls, Internet, cameras.
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The full formatting cycle includes not only data erasure, but also competent recovery from backup and account security checks.
If you notice that the phone is warming or discharges quickly in the first hours after reset, don't panic.The system indexes files and optimizes applications in the background, usually taking 30 minutes to 2 hours of active work.
Possible errors and their solution
In rare cases, the formatting process can be interrupted or ended in error, the most common problem is the bootloop cycle, where the phone constantly displays the logo and shuts down again, which may indicate that system files are damaged or an unsuccessful update.
In this situation, you may need to flash the device using your computer and the Mi Flash Tool. This is a more complex procedure that requires an unlocked bootloader. If you did not unlock in advance, you will have to wait 7 days (168 hours) after you submit your application with Xiaomi.
- 🔄 If the phone is stuck on the logo, try pressing the power button on the 15-20 second-on-seconds.
- 🔋 Make sure the cable is USB It is serviceable and connected directly to the motherboard port of the PC, not through hubs.
- 💻 For flashing, use the original cable that comes with the kit, as it provides a stable current.
Remember that regular formatting does not necessarily extend the life of a smartphone. Modern eMMC and UFS drives have a limited resource of rewrite cycles. Reverse completely only if there are real problems or before selling.