How to reset Xiaomi to factory settings: the complete guide

Owning a modern smartphone requires a periodic deep cleaning, often asking how to reset the phone when the device is unstable or before it is sold to a new owner, a procedure that returns the software to its original state by removing all user data, applications and changes to the system.

Hard Reset is a radical but effective tool to combat software errors: If your Xiaomi or Redmi is hanging, discharged quickly, or has connection issues, a full reset may be the only way out. It is important to understand that this action is irreversible without a pre-created backup.

In this article, we will take a look at all the available methods for returning the system to factory status. We will look at the standard tools of the MIUI and HyperOS operating system, as well as methods for restoring through Recovery mode if the phone does not turn on. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid losing important files.

Preparing the smartphone for a complete data reset

Before any manipulation of system files begins, a number of preparatory steps must be taken; ignoring this stage can lead to the permanent loss of photos, contacts and correspondence. Backup is the most important step that should not be missed.

Make sure the battery is at least 50-60%, the process of formatting internal memory is energy-consuming, and suddenly turning off the phone in the middle of the procedure can damage the system partitions. Also check if you know the password from your Mi Account and Google Account, as after the reset, the system will require them to confirm the rights of the owner.

There are several ways to save information: you can use cloud services, local copying to your computer or built-in MIUI tools. Choose the method that is most convenient in your situation, and make sure that the files are actually saved and available for viewing.

Method 1: Reset via the system settings menu

This is the easiest and safest method available to any user whose phone is functioning properly and responds to touching the screen, you don't need any special knowledge or connection to the computer. All actions are performed through the standard Settings menu.

To start, open the main menu and find About Phone. In some versions of HyperOS firmware or new MIUIs, this section may be called differently or moved. Next, you need to find the Reset option. The interface may vary slightly depending on the model, whether it is a Redmi Note or a flagship Xiaomi.

Once you select the Delete all data, the system will show you a list of what will be deleted, which includes contacts, messages, installed apps, media files, and Wi-Fi network settings. If you want to clean your phone completely, make sure that the tick is next to the Clear Internal Memory item.

In the final step, the system will ask you to enter the unlock password or the pattern lock, a security measure that prevents unauthorized persons from accidentally resetting, and after confirmation, the deletion process will begin, which will take 5 to 15 minutes, after which the phone will reboot as new.

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

If the device freezes on the logo, doesn't respond to touch, or goes into a cyclical reboot, the standard method through the settings won't work. In this case, a recovery mode known as Recovery Mode is a low-level environment built into the phone's memory regardless of the main operating system.

To enter this mode, you need to turn off your smartphone completely. Then press the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi or Redmi logo appears, after which the power button can be released, continuing to hold the volume. When the Recovery menu appears, release all the buttons.

⚠️ Attention: In Recovery mode, the touch screen is not working, the menu is navigated by volume buttons (up/down), and the choice of item is confirmed by the power button.

In the menu that opens, the language is often Chinese or English. If you see Chinese characters, select English (usually the second or third on top). Then select the Wipe Data option and confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.

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If the phone is stuck on the logo again after resetting in Recovery, try selecting "Reboot" -> "Reboot to Recovery" again and repeat the reset procedure. Sometimes you need a double pass to completely clear the DALVIK cache.

Once the process is completed successfully, the screen will display the message Success. Select Reboot and then Reboot to System. The first run after such a reset can last longer than usual, up to 10 minutes, since the system needs to recreate all system files.

Method 3: Remote reset via Find Device

The situation is different: the phone can be lost or stolen, and physical access to it is impossible. In such cases, the Xiaomi Cloud service and the Find Device feature come to the rescue, which allows you to remotely initiate a complete reset of the device if it is connected to the Internet.

To use this method, you need to know the username and password from the Mi Account that was authorized on the missing device. Go to the official website of the service through any browser from a computer or other phone.

Once you log in, select the device you want from the list. In the management menu, find the Erase Device button. The system will send a command to the phone. If the device is online, the reset will happen immediately. If the phone is off or off, the command will run as soon as it appears on the network.

This is particularly effective in protecting personal data when a theft occurs, and even if an attacker tries to search the phone, without your account, they will not be able to activate the device thanks to the protection of Mi Account Lock.

Solution: Problems with Mi Account after reset

One of the most common problems users face after a reset is blocking activation. Android and MIUI security requires proof of identity. If you don't remember the password, access to the phone will be impossible.

When you first turn on after Hard Reset, the phone will ask for a password from the Google Account and Mi Account that were synced earlier. This is an anti-theft mechanism. If you just sold the phone and didn't log out before the reset, the new owner will have to suffer with you.

⚠️ Warning: Never sell or give up a phone without following the detachment procedure. Simply resetting data is not enough if you have not logged out beforehand, otherwise the device will become a brick for the customer.

If you forget your password, you can restore it through the restoration process on Google or Xiaomi sites, you need access to a linked phone number or backup email, and without restoring access to these accounts, it is almost impossible to unlock the device legally.

In some cases, if the phone was bought with hands and it has someone else's account, the only solution is to contact the service center with a check about the purchase of the originality of the device, the documents will confirm that you are the legitimate owner of the hardware.

Cleaning through Fastboot and Computer (for advanced)

For users who want to get the cleanest possible system without pre-installed garbage or region-lock (Chinese vs global), there is a Fastboot mode. This method requires a connection to a PC and the presence of special software.

Fastboot mode differs from Recovery in that it allows you not only to reset data, but also to reflash partitions. To enter this mode, you usually press the buttons Volume Down and Power. The screen will show an image of a hare repairing an android, which is a symbol of the Fastboot mode on Xiaomi devices.

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Executing commands via ADB/Fastboot requires caution. The wrong command can lead to data loss on the wrong partition or even a breakdown of the bootloader, a method only recommended for advanced users who understand the structure of the Android file system.

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Using Fastboot gives you full control of the device, but carries risks. For a normal data reset, it is always preferable to use a regular menu or Recovery Mode, as they are safer.

After performing the cleaning commands, you need to lock the bootloader back (if it was unlocked) or simply restart the device with the command fastboot reboot.

What to do after resetting: the initial setting

When the process is complete and the phone greets you with the language selection screen, the setup phase begins. Don't rush to install all the apps at once. First, make sure the system is stable. Check the sensor, speakers and microphone.

When connected to Wi-Fi, the system can suggest recovering data from a backup. If you've created a backup in Google Drive or Mi Cloud, you can restore contacts, calendar and app lists. Photos and videos are better restored manually so that memory doesn't automatically clog up.

Make sure to update the system immediately after the first turn on. Developers often release security patches and bug fixes. Go to Settings -> About phone and check for updates. This will ensure maximum performance and security of your smartphone.