Modern Xiaomi smartphones run on the MIUI operating system or the new HyperOS, which receive regular updates. However, new versions of the software are not always happy with stability, there may be errors, battery gluttony or incompatibility with favorite applications.
Xiaomi’s firmware rollback process requires careful and careful follow-up, as any careless action can lead to data loss or, in the worst case, to the device becoming a brick. Backup is the first and mandatory step that cannot be ignored. All your photos, contacts and settings will be deleted in the process of restoring factory status.
In this guide, we will look at various methods of returning to factory settings: from simple reset via menus to more complex manipulations using Fastboot and Recovery. You will learn how to properly prepare the device, where to download official images and what nuances should be considered when switching between regional versions of the software. Full rollback is possible only with an unlocked bootloader (Bootloader), if you plan to change the firmware region (for example, from CN to Global).
Preparation of the smartphone and data backup
Before you start any manipulation of system files, you need to ensure the safety of personal information. Xiaomi's standard backup mechanism allows you to save contacts, messages, call logs and system settings. To do this, go to Settings → About Phone → Backup and Restore. Select the data you need and save it to the SD memory card or connect the device to the computer to transfer the archive.
Media files and documents are the most important things to look at. Photos and videos are often the most space-consuming, and the loss of them will be the most painful. Use cloud services like Google Photos or Xiaomi Cloud, or simply copy the contents of the DCIM folder to your computer's hard drive. Remember to also check the synchronization of notes and voice recorders if you use standard applications.
☑️ Preparation for firmware rollback
It's important to understand the difference between resetting and flashing. Hard Reset brings the software back to its original state, but leaves the OS version unchanged. Flashing replaces the system partition itself with an earlier version. If your goal is simply to eliminate software bugs, sometimes the first option is enough. However, if you have serious errors after an Android or MIUI update, it is the version that needs to be rolled back.
Full Reset Method through Recovery Mode
The most affordable way to return the device to factory status is to use the built-in Recovery mode. This method does not require a connection to the computer and the presence of special utilities, but it is only suitable if the phone is turned on and able to boot into this mode. To enter Recovery, you need to turn off the smartphone completely, and then pinch the combination of the buttons Volume Up + Power before the Mi logo appears.
The Recovery Mode interface on Xiaomi can support touch control or be controlled by volume buttons (up/down for navigation, power for confirmation). You need to select Wipe Data, then Wipe All Data. The system will warn you that all data will be deleted. Confirm action, and the cleanup process will begin. Once complete, select Reboot to reboot.
⚠️ Note: This method does not change the firmware version to an older one, but only clears the current system of user data and cache. Use it to resolve software conflicts, but not for the downgrade version of Android.
If the problem persists after the reset, system files may be damaged and deeper intervention is required. In some cases, especially on newer HyperOS models, logging in to Recovery may require unlocking the screen or confirming through your account password for security reasons. Make sure you remember your Mi Account and Google account details, otherwise the device may be locked after the reset.
What happens if Recovery does not open?
Fastboot and Mi Flash Tool
To fully roll back to an earlier firmware (downgrade), you will need to use a computer and the Mi Flash Tool. This method is the most reliable and allows you to completely rewrite system partitions. First you need to download the official Fastboot firmware for your model. Importantly, the firmware version must correspond to the region of the device, and a downgrade often requires a pre-unlocked bootloader.
After downloading the firmware archive (unpack it into the root of the C disk so that the path is short, for example, the file is not available, C:\xiaomi_rom), Open the Mi Flash Tool. Put your smartphone in Fastboot mode: turn off your phone and press Volume Down. + Power. Connect the device to the PC with a cable. In the utility, press the Refresh button to let the computer see the smartphone. Select Clean all firmware mode and press Flash.
| Firmware mode | Data retention | Unlocking Bootloader | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean all | No (removes everything) | Required for downgrade | For a clean kickback |
| Save user data | Yes. | Not required | Only to reinstall the same version |
| Clean all + lock | No (removes everything) | Locks the loader. | Only for global firmware on global devices |