How to open a second space on Xiaomi, if you forgot your password: the full guide

A forgotten password from the second space on Xiaomi’s smartphone is a common problem that can block access to important data. Unlike the main account, the second space (Secondary Space) is often used to separate work and personal files, but its recovery requires specific actions. In this article, we will discuss 5 proven ways to unlock, from official methods through Mi Account to technical solutions using ADB and Fastboot mode.

It's important to understand that not all methods guarantee data safety, for example, resetting through Recovery will delete all information in the second space, whereas authorization through Mi Account can save files, we will describe each option in detail, specify their pros and cons, and also warn against typical errors that can lead to complete loss of access to the device.

If you use Xiaomi on MIUI 12-14, most of the instructions will be relevant. For older versions (e.g. MIUI 10-11), some steps may differ — we’ll mention that too.

1 Unlocking through Mi Account (official method)

The most reliable and recommended method Xiaomi is to restore access through the associated Mi Account, which works if:

• 📱 Device connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network).
• 🔑 You remember the username and password from Mi Account, which was used when setting up the second space.
• 🔄 Find Device is activated in the settings.

To take advantage of this method:

1. On the lock screen of the second space, tap the button Forgot the password? (or similar inscription).
2. Select the Restore option via Mi Account.
3. Enter the email or phone number associated with the account, then the password.
4. Confirm the action via SMS or email (if two-factor authentication is enabled).

Once you have successfully logged in, the system will suggest you create a new password for the second space, and all the data will be saved, but some settings (such as fingerprints) will have to be reconfigured.

⚠️ Note: If you have previously changed your Mi Account password and haven’t updated it in your device settings, authorization may not work.

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Before you try to unlock, check if your smartphone is connected to the network. Without the Internet, Mi Account will not be able to confirm your identity.

2.Reset second space through settings (without data loss mostly)

If the Mi Account is not tied or you don’t remember the login details, you can only reset the second space without affecting the main one.This method works on most Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco devices with MIUI 12+.

Instructions:

1. Go to the main space (unlock it in the usual way).
2. Open Settings → Password and Security → Second Space
3. Slip on the option to Remove the second space (or Reset the password, if available).
4. Confirm the action by entering the password from the main space.

After that, the second space will be removed, but all the data in the main space will remain intact. You can create a new second space from scratch.

⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro) may need to restart the device after resetting the second space!

3.Use ADB to unlock (for power users)

If previous methods didn’t work, you can try unlocking the second space via Android Debug Bridge (ADB), a method that requires USB debugging enabled and access to the computer.

Step-by-step:

1. Download and install ADB Tools on PC.
2. Turn on Developer Mode on your smartphone: go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and tap 7 times.
3. Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and activate Debugging over USB.
4. Connect your phone to your PC and confirm your trust in your computer.
5. Open the command prompt (or Terminal on Mac/Linux) and type:

adb shell


pm clear com.miui.secondspace

This command will reset the settings of the second space, but will not delete the data mainly. After completing, restart the device and try to log into the second space without a password.

⚠️ Note: On some firmware (for example, MIUI 13 Global) this command may not work. In that case, try an alternative command:

adb shell am start -n com.miui.secondspace/.SecondSpaceDeleteActivity

Debugging is on. USB|Drivers installed ADB|The phone is connected to the PC with the original cable|Backup copy of data created-->

4.Reset via Recovery Mode (extreme case)

If none of the methods worked, you'll have to hard-reset through Recovery, which will delete all the data in the second space and return it to the factory settings, and in most of the space, the files will remain intact, but only if you don't choose the option of a full reset.

How to perform the reset:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press the Power + Volume buttons up at the same time until the Mi logo appears.
3. From the Recovery menu, select the language (usually English or Chinese).
4. Go to Wipe Data → Wipe Second Space (or similar).
5. Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed.

Once you reboot, the second space will be removed, and you can recreate it in the settings.

5. Alternative methods: contacting the service center

If independent attempts were unsuccessful, you can contact the official Xiaomi service center.

• 🔐 Device locked at Mi Account level (proof of ownership required).
• 📱 The smartphone does not respond to commands ADB or not included in the Recovery.
• 🔧 You are afraid of losing important data and need professional help.

What will be required for the application:

• 📄 Check or warranty card (to confirm purchase).
• 🆔 Passport or other identification document.
• 🔑 Data from Mi Account if the account is linked to the device.

The cost of unlocking the service varies from 500 to 2000 rubles depending on the model and complexity of the work, in some cases, you may need to flash the device, which cancels the warranty.

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The official service is the only way to unlock if the device is tied to another user’s Mi Account (for example, when buying a used smartphone).

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When trying to unlock a second space, users often make critical errors that can make the problem worse.

1. Interrupt the reset process. If you start resetting through Recovery or ADB, do not disconnect the device from the power in any case. This can lead to a blink (complete failure) of the smartphone.
2. Using unofficial firmware: Installing custom ROMs (like LineageOS) without experience can block access to both spaces. If you're not sure about your skills, you'd better consult a specialist.
3. Wrong teams ADB. Error in one letter (e.g., secondspace instead of the same letter) second_space) Always copy commands from trusted sources.

Another common problem is blocking Mi Account after multiple attempts to enter a password, and if you make a mistake several times when you restore through your account, Xiaomi may temporarily block access, in which case you will have to wait from 30 minutes to 24 hours or reset your password through the official website.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions