Resetting on Xiaomi smartphones often becomes a headache for users because of Factory Reset Protection (FRP), Google's protection system that blocks access to a device after a hard reset if it was tied to an account. Even with the username and password, you may encounter errors like, "This device was reset. To continue, log in to an account that was previously synced on this device." The problem is compounded on models with MIUI 12-14, where the verification algorithms have tightened.
In this article, we will discuss legal and technical ways to decouple a Google account from Xiaomi after a reset β from standard methods through settings to bypassing. FRP assisted ADB, Mi Unlock Tool and even hardware solutions for locked devices. 10/11/12, POCO F3/F4/F5 and Mi flagships 11/12/13. If you bought a used phone with a tied someone elseβs account β here too you will find a solution.
Why Xiaomi Requires an Old Google Account After a Reset
FRP (Factory Reset Protection) was introduced by Google in Android 5.1 Lollipop as a measure against device theft. At Xiaomi, it works like this:
- π When you first turn on your phone, you add a Google account (e.g. a user).@gmail.com).
- π± The system links a unique device identifier (IMEI hardware ID) to this account.
- π After resetting through Settings β Reset β Delete all data or hard reset (Power) + Vol Up: The phone requires you to enter the details of the account that was the last.
- β οΈ If the account is deleted, blocked or you do not remember the password, access to the phone will be impossible without bypassing. FRP.
There's an additional layer of protection on MIUI, which is a Xiaomi Account binding, and if the phone was synced to both accounts (Google + Mi), you'll need to reset the two accounts in turn, which is the case for hand-held devices.
β οΈ Attention: Starting with MIUI 13 (Android 12+) Xiaomi tightened the check FRP. Standard methods of bypassing TalkBack or Google Assistant, which worked on older versions, are now blocked at the stage of setting up Wi-Fi.+, Xiaomi 13T) Alternative methods will be required.
Preparation for the unbundling: what to do before the beginning
Before you try to remove your Google account, follow these steps to avoid completely locking your device or losing data:
Make sure your phone is at least 50 times charged%|Connect to stable Wi-Fi (not mobile data)|Download the necessary files (ADB, Mi Unlock Tool on PC|Turn off two-factor authentication in your Google account (if you have access)|Check the phone model in the settings (to choose the right method)-->
If you donβt have access to your old account, but your phone is on and running:
- Go to Settings β Accounts and Sync β Google.
- Delete your account through the menu (if the system allows).
- Turn off Find the device in Google settings (Security β Find the device).
- Reset before deleting your account, so FRP is not activated.
If the phone is already locked after reset, go to the methods of bypassing below. For the POCO X3/X4 and Redmi 9/10 models, the ADB method will suit, and for the Mi 11 Ultra or Xiaomi 12 Pro, you may need the Mi Unlock Tool with unlocking the bootloader.
Redmi (Note, K-series)|POCO (F, X, M-series)|Mi (flagship series)|Black Shark (Gaming)|Other-->
Method 1: Standard login through old account (if available)
If you remember the associated account details, but the system gives an error such as βIncorrect passwordβ or βDevice not recognizedβ, follow these steps:
- On the lock screen after reset, select Add Wi-Fi network (if no connection).
- Enter the network data, then return to the Google login screen.
- In the email box, enter your full account address (e.g. user@gmail.com, not just a user).
- If the message βThis device has been resetβ appears, click Next and enter the password.
- When requesting two-factor authentication, use backup codes or confirmation via SMS/email.
If the system asks for confirmation via another device (e.g., βAre you trying to sign in with Redmi Note 11?β), but you donβt have access to it:
- π± Try to confirm through the device activity page in the browser.
- π Use a backup code (if saved during settings) 2FA).
- π Wait 24 hours β sometimes Google temporarily blocks new devices from entering.
β οΈ Note: If your account has been deleted less 20 You can restore it through the Google form. When you restore it, try logging in again. @company.com) Go to the administrator.
Method 2: FRP bypasses ADB (for Android 8-11)
This method works on Xiaomi from Android 8 Oreo to Android 11 (inclusive) and requires access to debugging mode via USB. Suitable for models like Redmi Note 8 Pro, POCO F1, Mi 9T.
What you need:
- π₯οΈ Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
- π USB-cable (original, without damage).
- π¦ ADB Fastboot Tools (download from the official website).
Step-by-step:
- Connect your phone to your PC and run a cmd (or Terminal on macOS/Linux).
- Check the connection command: Adb devices If the device is not displayed, install Xiaomi drivers.
- Enter the commands alternately: adb shell content insert --uri content://settings/secure --bind name:s:user_setup_complete --bind value:s:1 adb shell am start -n com.google.android.gsf.login/ adb shell am start -n com.google.android.gsf.login.LoginActivity
- The phone will open a Google login window, and enter any existing account (not necessarily the one previously linked).
- After successful login, restart the device.
If the adb device command shows unauthorized, then debugging over USB is not enabled.
- On the lock screen after reset, press Emergency Call.
- Dial ##4636## and the test menu will open.
- Go to Usage Statistics β Back (you may need a few taps).
- Turn on USB Debugging in the settings that appear.
π‘
If ADB doesnβt recognize the device, try reconnecting the cable or using a USB 2.0 port (on some PCs, USB 3.0 causes errors).
Method 3: Use the Mi Unlock Tool (to unlock the bootloader)
If the previous methods did not work, and the phone unlocked the bootloader, you can use the official Mi Unlock Tool. This method is suitable for the POCO F3, Redmi K40, Xiaomi 11 Lite and other models with MIUI 12+.
Important: Xiaomi links the unlock bootloader to the Mi Account. If the phone was bought with your hands, you will need:
- π§ Data of the previous ownerβs Mi Account (or his consent to the detachment via account.xiaomi.com).
- π Waiting. 7-15 days after the new Mi Account is linked (if the bootloader is not unlocked).
Instructions:
- Download the Mi Unlock Tool and install it on PC.
- Start your phone in Fastboot mode (press Power + Vol Down when the device is off).
- Connect your phone to your PC and open the Mi Unlock Tool.
- Sign in to your Mi Account (should be linked to your phone for at least 7 days).
- Press Unlock and wait until the process is complete (it can take up to 10 minutes).
- Once the bootloader is unlocked, swipe your phone through Fastboot using the Mi Flash Tool, selecting the clean all and lock option (this will remove FRP).
β οΈ Attention: Unlocking the bootloader erases all data and may result in a loss of warranty. on some models (Xiaomi) 12S Ultra, Redmi K50 Gaming) after unlocking may stop working data encryption and Google Pay.
What to do if Mi Unlock Tool gives you a "Couldn't unlock" error
Method 4: Firmware via SP Flash Tool (for Mediatek)
If your Xiaomi is running on a Mediatek processor (e.g. Redmi 9A, POCO C31, Redmi 10A), you can bypass FRP using the SP Flash Tool.This method erases all data, but is guaranteed to remove the binding to the Google account.
What you need:
- π₯οΈ Windows PC (SP Flash Tool does not work on macOS/Linux).
- π¦ SP Flash Tool (version 5.2 or later).
- π Stock firmware (ROM) For your model (download from the official website or XDA).
- π₯ The firmware is not suitable for your region (download the Global version, EEA China, depending on the model).
| Xiaomi model | Processor | Is SP Flash Tool suitable? | Alternative method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 9A | Mediatek Helio G25 | β Yes. | β |
| POCO M3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 | β No. | EDL Mode + Mi Flash |
| Redmi Note 8 2021 | Mediatek Helio G85 | β Yes. | β |
| Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G | β No. | Fastboot + Mi Flash |
| Redmi 10C | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 | β No. | ADB or EDL |
Method 5: Bypassing FRP via EDL Mode (for Qualcomm)
Qualcomm processor devices (POCO X3 Pro, Redmi K20 Pro, Xiaomi Mi 10) support EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode, which allows you to flash the phone without any locks, but requires an authorization file (.edl) or boxing (for example, UFED, Octoplus).
How to log into EDL:
- Turn off the phone.
- Hold Vol Up. + Vol Down and plug in USB-plug-in.
- Hold the buttons for 10-15 seconds until the Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 appears in Windows Device Manager.
For firmware via EDL:
- π₯ Download Mi Flash Tool and firmware for your model (for example, fastboot-ROM from the official website).
- π§ In Mi Flash Tool, select Select and specify the path to the firmware folder.
- π Press Refresh β the phone must be determined in mode EDL.
- π€ Select Clean All and press Flash.
β οΈ Attention: Firmware through EDL Without an authorization file (.edl) can result in a complete lock. IMEI (The phone will lose the network. for Xiaomi models 12/13 This method is recommended only in service centers.
π‘
EDL Mode is Qualcomm's most reliable way to bypass FRP, but it requires technical skills. If you're not sure, consult a specialist to avoid turning your phone into a brick.
What to do if nothing helps: alternative solutions
If all of these methods have not worked, consider these options:
- π Contact the previous owner: Ask them to temporarily add your account to Googleβs security settings as a trusted one.
- π οΈ Xiaomi Service Center: Provide proof of purchase (check, sales contract) β they can reset FRP officially.
- π» Remote Help: Forums like 4PDA or XDA There are specialists who will help you to get around for a fee FRP via TeamViewer.
- π± Fast-fly to custom firmware: For example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience (but you will lose the warranty and some features like Google Pay).
For models with an unblocked loader (POCO F1, Redmi K20) you can try:
- Install TWRP Recovery via Fastboot.
- Then sew it up. Disable_FRP.zip (find XDA).
- Reboot - FRP will be disabled.
If the phone doesn't turn on at all (hangs on the logo or flashes a red light), the problem may be the damaged firmware.
- Try flashing through Fastboot with the clean all option.
- If it doesnβt work, bring it to the service (eMMC memory may be damaged).