How to format Xiaomi Mi A2: 5 proven ways to reset to factory settings

Xiaomi Mi A2 is one of the few smartphones of the brand that runs on pure Android One instead of the branded MIUI shell. This feature makes the process of formatting the device both easier (due to standard Google tools) and more difficult (due to restrictions on system modification). Unlike models on MIUI, there is no built-in option “clean all data” in the recovery menu, and an improper reset can lead to locking the bootloader and losing the IMEI.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to format the Mi A2, from soft reset through settings to hard flashing through Fastboot. We will focus on the nuances associated with unlocking OEM, working with ADB and recovering from failed operations. If your smartphone hangs on the logo, does not turn on or requires complete cleaning before selling, here you will find working solutions.

1.When should you format the Xiaomi Mi A2?

Formatting is not a universal solution to all problems. Before you reset your device, make sure it's really necessary.

• 📱 Preparation for sale – deletion of personal data (photos, messages, accounts).
• 🐢 Slowdown of work – the smartphone slows down, applications constantly fly out.
• 🔄 Failures after the update – errors in the Android or MIUI (caste-wise).
• 🚫 Viruses or malware – suspected infection through third-party APK.
• 🔧 Unsuccessful firmware – the device does not boot (bootloop) or hangs on the logo.

⚠️ Attention: If Mi A2 It doesn't turn on at all (no charging response, no lights), the problem may be in the hardware - formatting won't help here.

Preparation for formatting: what to do in advance

Incorrect preparation can lead to the loss of important data or even the "bricking" of the device.

Make a backup copy of the data (photos, contacts, SMS)|Make sure the battery is charged > 50%|Download the original firmware (if you plan to flash it back)|Enable debugging on USB unlock OEM|Prepare the cable. USB (preferably original)-->

Pay special attention to unlocking OEM (in the developer settings), without which reset via Fastboot or firmware will not be possible.

1. Go to Settings → About Phone → Build Number and tap 7 times to turn on Developer Mode.
2. Return to the main settings menu, open the System → For developers.
3. Find the OEM Unlock and turn it on.
4. Connect the device to the computer and confirm the permission to debug via USB.

⚠️ Note: Some versions of Android after activation Unblock OEM You have to wait 7 days before unlocking the bootloader.

3. Method 1: Soft reset via Android settings

The safest method is if the smartphone is turned on and responds to commands, and this method does not affect system files, but only deletes user data and applications.

Instructions:

1. Open Settings → System → Reset.
2. Select Delete all data (reset to factory settings).
3. If necessary, enter PIN-code.
4. Confirm the action by clicking Reset the phone.
5. Wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes) and restarted.

Once reset, the device will launch as new, with a suggestion to configure the language and connect to Wi-Fi. This method does not remove system updates - the Android version will remain the same.

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If after reset, the smartphone asks you to enter a Google account that was previously linked, and you do not remember it, use the instructions from the FAQ to bypass FRP-blocking.

4. Method 2: Hard Reset via Recovery Mode

If the Mi A2 doesn’t boot into the system but responds to buttons (vibrates, lights up), try resetting via Recovery Mode. The Mi A2 uses standard Stock Recovery, not TWRP, so the functionality is limited.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
2. Press Power + Volume up at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons – you will be taken to the Recovery Mode menu (manage by the volume and power buttons).
4. Select Wipe Data (or Wipe & Reset in some versions).
5. Confirm the action by selecting Yes.
6. After completion, select Reboot System.

⚠️ Attention: Stock Recovery Mi A2 There's no Wipe Cache option, which is in custom recaveries. If you want to clear the cache, use it. ADB (3-way).

5. Method 3: Formatting via ADB (for power users)

The method is suitable if you need to selectively delete data (for example, only cache or a specific application) or when the sensor is not working. ADB and Xiaomi drivers.

Instructions:

1. Connect the Mi A2 to your PC via USB and allow debugging.
2. Open the command prompt (Windows) or terminal (Linux/macOS) in the folder with ADB.
3. Check the connection command: Adb devices must display the serial number of the device.
4. To reset to factory settings, enter: adb shell recovery --wipe_data
5. To clean the cache: adb shell recovery --wipe_cache

If you need to remove a specific application (such as a viral one), use:

adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 name.packet

⚠️ Note: Fastboot erase commands for userdata or system partitions on Mi A2 may result in loss IMEI or network lock, use them only if you're sure of what you're doing.

6. Method 4: Complete Fastboot Fastboot Firmware

An extreme method where other methods have failed, suitable for eliminating bootloop, recovering from failed firmware or returning to the stock version of Android.

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/Linux and installed Mi Flash Tool.
• 🔌 The original cable. USB (important for a stable connection).
• 📁 Official firmware for Mi A2 (You can download it on the official Xiaomi website).
• 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (if you are running the unofficial version).

Step-by-step:

1. Unpack the archive with firmware in a folder without Cyrillic characters.
2. Turn off your smartphone and press Power + Volume down to log into Fastboot Mode.
3. Connect the device to your PC and start the Mi Flash Tool.
4. In the program, click Select and specify the path to the folder with the firmware.
5. Select firmware mode: Clean All - complete clean (removes everything, including internal memory); Clean All and Lock - same + lock bootloader (recommended for sale); Save User Data - save user data (risky when crashes).

Flash

Once the firmware is in place, the smartphone will automatically restart. The first launch can take up to 10 minutes - don't interrupt the process!

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Use Clean All and Lock only if you plan to sell the device, and locking the bootloader will make it harder to modify the system further.

7. Method 5: Unlocking the bootloader and formatting for custom firmware

If you want to install TWRP, LineageOS or other custom firmware, you first need to unlock the bootloader. On the Mi A2, this is done through Xiaomi's official tool, the Mi Unlock Tool.

Important: unlocking erases all data and resets the device to factory settings, and you will also need a device-linked Mi Account.

Instructions:

1. Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website.
2. Log in to your Mi Account on your smartphone and link the device to Settings → Mi Account → Mi Cloud.
3. Turn off the Mi A2 and log in to Fastboot Mode (Power + Volume Down).
4. Connect the device to your PC and start the Mi Unlock Tool.
5. Log in to the same Mi Account as on your smartphone.
6. Press Unlock and wait until it is completed (it can take up to 10 minutes).

After unlocking, you can flash TWRP and custom firmware.Remember: installing unofficial software deprives of warranty and can lead to problems with the operation of the NFC module or camera.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi Mi A2 formatting