How to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 to factory settings: all ways

Why you need a Redmi Note 8 reset and when to do it

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary solution, which removes all user data, apps and settings, returning the smartphone to the “out of the box” state, most often resorted to in three cases:

First, if the device has started to slow down or overheat for no apparent reason. Over time, the accumulation of cache, residual files of deleted applications and fragmentation of memory can lead to slowdown. Second, resetting is mandatory before selling or transferring the phone to another user - this is a guarantee that your personal data (photos, passwords, messages) will not fall into the wrong hands. Third, the procedure helps to eliminate software failures when the phone does not respond to commands, cyclically restarts or issues update errors.

However, it is important to understand that resetting is not a panacea for all problems. If the Redmi Note 8 has hardware malfunctions (for example, a damaged motherboard or charging connector), returning to factory settings will not fix the situation, and the procedure will not help if the phone is locked by the carrier (for example, when buying under a contract) - this requires a separate unlock procedure.

Preparing for resetting: how to save important data

Before you reset the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8, you need to back up all critical data. Unlike the iPhone, where redundancy is integrated into Apple's ecosystem, on Android, this process requires manual control.

• 📸 Photos and Videos: Use Google Photos (automatic sync) or copy files to your PC via Google Photos USB-The media folder is usually on the Internal Storage path. → DCIM.
• 📱 Contacts: Export them to the file VCF via the Contacts app (menu) → Contact management → Import/Export: Alternatively sync with your Google account.
• 📝 Messages: SMS/MMS Apps like this are suitable SMS Backup & Restore. Messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram) have built-in backup features in the cloud.
• 🎮 Game saves: many games (e.g. Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile) are linked to a Google Play account or social media. Make sure saves are synced.

Pay special attention to two-factor authentication (2FA). If you use applications like Google Authenticator or Authy, transfer them to another phone before reset, otherwise you risk losing access to accounts.

⚠️ Warning: After resetting, the phone will require you to enter the Mi Account information that was tied to the procedure. If you forget your username / password, restore it in advance, otherwise you risk getting a brick".

Make a backup copy of photos and videos|Synchronize your contacts with Google|Save. SMS messenger chats|Record Mi Account data (login / password)|Untie Payment Cards in Google Pay/Mi Pay|Get out. SIM and a memory card (optional)-->

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the safest)

If the Redmi Note 8 is turned on and responds to commands, the easiest way to zero is through the standard menu, which preserves firmware integrity and minimizes the risk of errors.

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
3. Select Resetting → Delete all data.
4. When you request, enter PIN-code or pattern lock (if installed).
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset the phone. The process will take 3-5 minutes.

Once you reboot, the phone will suggest you set it up as new, at which point you can restore data from the backup (if it was created through Mi Cloud or Google), if you sell the device, skip the settings and turn off the smartphone, so the buyer can link his account.

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If the menu does not include Backup and Reset, upgrade to the latest version of the firmware. In older versions of MIUI, the path may be different: Settings → Additional → Restore and Reset.

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

If the Redmi Note 8 does not load beyond the MI logo, is cyclically rebooted or locked with a pattern lock, resetting through Recovery mode will help. This method works even with damaged firmware, but requires care - improper actions can lead to a loss of IMEI or an error "Invalid IMEI" (which will make the phone unsuitable for calls).

To enter Recovery:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Press the Power button + Volume up at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will see the Recovery menu (in English or Chinese).

In the Recovery menu, the volume buttons (Up/Down for navigation, Power for selection) are controlled.

1. Select the Wipe Data option → Wipe All Data.
2. Confirm the action by selecting Confirm.
3. Once you’re done, go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone gives an error after the reset, "This device is locked" and requires you to enter your Mi Account data and you do not remember it, do not try to bypass the lock through third-party programs, this will lead to the blocking of the account on suspicion of theft. Contact Xiaomi Support with proof of purchase.

Method 3: Reset via Mi Account (remote)

If you lost the Redmi Note 8 or it is in another city, but you have access to your Mi Account, you can reset remotely via the web interface.

• 📶 The phone is connected to the Internet (mobile data or Wi-Fi).
• 🔄 Find the device has been activated in the settings (Settings) → Mi Account → Find the device).
• 🔒 You remember the username and password from the Mi Account tied to the phone.

Remote discharge instructions:

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. In the Devices section, select your Redmi Note 8.
3. Press Find the device. → Erase the data.
4. Confirm the action by entering the password from Mi Account.

It can take anywhere from minutes to an hour, depending on the speed of the Internet on your phone, and once you reset, the device will automatically unplug your account, so it's useless to use this method to block a thief, and also note that remote reset doesn't work if the phone is off or in airplane mode.

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Remote reset via Mi Account is the only official way to zero your phone without physically accessing it. All other IMEI reset "online services" are fraud!

What to do after resetting: the initial setting

After successful resetting, the Redmi Note 8 will offer a first setup process that is identical to the new phone’s setup, but there are a few nuances that can help avoid problems:

1. Language and Region Choice: Install Russian (Russia) if you are in the Russian Federation. The wrong region can lead to the absence of Russian in some applications.
2. Wi-Fi Connection: Use a stable network – at this stage, the phone will download the latest firmware updates (weighing up to 1-2 GB).
3. Sign in to Mi Account: If the phone was reset via Recovery, the system will require you to enter the account details that were tied before the reset. Enter them, even if you plan to sell the device - you can untie it.
4. Data recovery: If you have backed up via Mi Cloud or Google, select the appropriate option. To recover from a local copy (from a PC), connect your phone to USB and use Mi PC Suite.

After setting up, check the key functions:

• 📞 Calls and SMS: Make sure that it is determined IMEI (type *#06# in the dialer if instead of IMEI zeros are displayed, the reset was error-reflashing is required.
• 🌐 Internet: Check the work of mobile data and Wi-Fi.
• 🔋 Charging: Connect the charger – if the phone doesn’t detect charging, it may be damaged USB-port.

Common mistakes after resetting and how to fix them

Even if you do a reset correctly, the Redmi Note 8 may not behave properly. Here are the typical problems and solutions:

If the phone does not turn on after reset (black screen, no reaction to buttons), the reason may be:

• 🔋 Battery discharge – connect to charging for 30 to 60 minutes, then try turning on.
• 🔌 Damaged bootloader – Fastboot flashing is required (instruction below).
• 🛠️ Hardware malfunction – if the phone fell or got wet, the screen plume may have moved away or the board was damaged.

Frequently asked questions