How to completely reset Xiaomi Redmi phone: the complete guide

Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones accumulate a huge amount of data, cache files and temporary records, which over time inevitably leads to lower performance. Interface glitches, spontaneous reboots or selling a device to a new owner are only a small part of situations when the user needs a radical solution. Complete system zeroing, or Hard Reset, is the most effective way to return the gadget to its original speed and erase all personal information without the possibility of recovery.

The memory cleanup procedure requires careful attention, as it will be impossible to return deleted photos, contacts and correspondence after it is completed. In this article, we will discuss in detail all available methods of resetting, from standard menu settings to forced Recovery mode, which helps even if the device is locked, you will learn how to properly prepare the device to avoid problems with a Google account or Mi Account.

It's worth noting that the security algorithms in the MIUI shell and the new HyperOS are constantly being improved, so the old methods may differ from the current ones. We'll look at the nuances of working with biometrics, two-factor authentication and explain why simple deletion of files is not a complete reset. Understanding these processes will allow you to avoid common errors and safely manage your digital device.

Preparing the device for a complete data reset

Before you start the formatting process, you need to perform a number of critical actions, ignoring which can lead to loss of access to the device or permanent loss of valuable files. The first step should always be a backup, since regular cleaning tools do not distinguish between system debris and your personal photos.

Make sure your battery level is at least 50-60%, as a sudden power outage during system partition writing can damage the software, and you will also need a stable Wi-Fi connection or mobile internet connection for final synchronization and account verification before cleaning.

⚠️ Note: If Find My Device theft protection or Mi Account binding is activated on your phone, be sure to log out of all profiles manually before resetting. Otherwise, after turning on, the device will request a password from the last used account, and without it it it will be almost impossible to unlock the phone.

You can use cloud services or local storage to create a backup, and choose the most convenient option for you from the following:

• 📸 Google Photos: Automatically saves all images and videos to cloud storage when sync is enabled.
• ☁️ Mi Cloud: a proprietary solution for backup contacts, SMS, notes and system settings in the Xiaomi ecosystem.
• 💾 Local backup: creating an archive on a memory card SD or computer-assisted USB-cable.
• 📱 Mi Mover app: allows you to quickly transfer data to another smartphone over a wireless network.

Method 1: Reset via the system settings menu

The safest and most recommended method for working devices is to use the built-in functionality of the operating system, which ensures that all background processes are completed correctly and that memory partitions are formatted correctly without the risk of damage to the bootloader.

To start, go to the main menu and select Settings. In the list that opens, find the About Phone section, which is usually located at the bottom or at the top of the list depending on the version of the MIUI shell. Here you are interested in the Reset option, which may also be called Delete All Data.

The system will offer several cleaning options. Select Erase all data to completely delete user information, PIN-a code or password set to lock the screen, which is an additional security measure.

It is important to understand the difference between Reset and Erase All Data options: the former will only return system settings to factory values by saving your files, while the latter will completely destroy all information on the internal drive, including applications and media files.

Once confirmed, the device will restart and start the cleaning process, which can take 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of memory filled, and do not interrupt this process and do not try to turn off the phone even if the screen goes out for a while.

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If you plan to sell the phone, don't reset it, just turn it off. The new owner will see the screen of the original setup, as if you were buying it in a store.

Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode

If the operating system does not boot, freezes on the logo or the touch screen does not respond to commands, the only way out is to use Recovery Mode Recovery Mode. This method allows you to clean up at the bootloader level, bypassing the Android interface.

To enter this mode, you need to turn off your smartphone completely. Then press the volume button and the power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button, but continue to keep the volume until the Main Menu menu appears with a black or orange background.

Navigation in this menu is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice of item is confirmed by the power button. You need to find the Wipe Data string and select it. Next, the system will request confirmation, often requiring you to select the Wipe All Data item and confirm the action with the Confirm button.

⚠️ Attention: In Recovery mode, the touch screen usually does not work. All actions are performed by mechanical buttons on the case, so be careful when navigating, so as not to select the wrong menu item.

After the cleaning process is completed, which will appear as a percentage or message "Data wiped successfully", you need to select Reboot and then Reboot to System. The first run after such a reset will last longer than usual, as the system takes time to create new system files.

This method is especially useful when removing forgotten screen lock passwords, but it is powerless against FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection, which requires entering a password from a Google account after a reboot.

Deletion of accounts and reset protection (FRP)

Modern versions of Android are equipped with a powerful system of protection against theft, known as FRP. The essence of the mechanism is simple: if you reset your settings, but do not previously log out of your Google or Mi Account, then the first activation of the phone will require you to enter a password from the account that was the last.

This means that even a full Hard Reset won’t get around lockdowns if you don’t remember the login details.It’s insurance for owners, but for those who have bought a used phone and don’t know the history of its use, it can be a serious problem.

To avoid blocking, follow the following steps before resetting:

• 🔓 Mi Account: Go to Settings → Mi Account and click "Exit." Enter the password for confirmation.
• 📧 Google: Go to Settings → Accounts and synchronization → Google, select your address and click “Delete Account».
• 🔐 Screen Password: It is advisable to delete the installed pin or pattern lock in the security section before starting the procedure.

The table below compares the effects of a reset with remote and active accounts:

Solving problems in zeroing

Users may encounter various technical difficulties during the reset process, such as the phone may hover on the Mi or Android logo and not respond to commands, which in most cases means that the recording process is still in progress and it is worth waiting up to 20 minutes.

If the device is in a loop reboot, it may be damaged or interrupted before the upgrade, in such situations, it helps to re-enter Recovery mode and try to reset again, or flash the device through the computer using the Mi Flash Tool utility.

Another common problem is the inability to delete an account if the password is forgotten, in which case the access can only be restored through the account refund procedure on the manufacturer's website, providing a check on the purchase of the device to confirm ownership.

⚠️ Note: Using third-party programs to "hack» FRP or deleting accounts may contain viruses or cause software to fail permanently.

Sometimes, after a reset, the phone may search for a long time or not connect to Wi-Fi. This is normal for the first minutes of operation, as the radios are reconfigured. If the problem persists for more than 30 minutes, check the date and time settings or reset the network settings.

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Cyclical reboot after reset is most often solved by re-formatting through Recovery or completely flashing the device from the PC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)