How to unlock the screen Xiaomi, if you forgot the password: all working ways

A forgotten password on a Xiaomi smartphone is a situation that thousands of users face every day. Unlike the iPhone, where unlocking requires an iCloud connection, Xiaomi devices offer several alternative ways to restore access. However, not all methods are equally safe: some can lead to data loss, others to lock Mi Account if you act at random.

In this article, we will analyze 5 proven ways to unlock, from the simplest (via an attached account) to radical (full reset via Fastboot), pay special attention to the nuances for different models – from the Redmi Note 10 to the flagship Xiaomi 13 Ultra – and warn about typical errors that turn a temporary problem into irreversible data loss or blocking IMEI.

1 Unlocking with Mi Account (the most secure method)

If your Xiaomi is tied to a Mi Account, the chances of getting back without loss are as high as possible, which works even on new models with MIUI 14/15, if sync was previously enabled.

Algorithm of action:

  • πŸ”Ή Enter the wrong password 5 times in a row on the lock screen. the system will offer a recovery option via Mi Account.
  • πŸ“§ Press Forgot the password? β†’ Enter an email or phone linked to your account.
  • πŸ”‘ Confirm the entrance through SMS-code or backup email. Once authorized, the device unlocks automatically.

⚠️ Note: If you have previously disabled sync in settings (Settings) β†’ Mi Account β†’ Synchronization, this method won't work, and it's not available on custom firmware devices like LineageOS).

πŸ“Š Your Xiaomi is tied to your Mi Account?
Yeah, and I remember the entry data.
Yeah, but I don't remember the password.
No, I never tied it.
I don't know, I need to check.

2. Reset the pattern lock via a call (works on MIUI 12 and older)

This life hack is relevant for devices on MIUI 12/13 with standard firmware installed, and the essence of the method is to exploit a vulnerability in incoming call processing that allows you to bypass the lock screen.

Step-by-step:

  1. Ask a friend to call your blocked Xiaomi.
  2. Accept the call, then click Add Call (+ icon).
  3. In the dialing field, type ##4636## and the test menu will open.
  4. Return to the home screen via the Home button (without completing the call!) and then go to Settings β†’ Password and security and reset the pattern lock.

⚠️ Attention: MIUI 14/15 This method doesn't work -- Xiaomi has closed the security update vulnerability, and it's also not applicable if you have a device installed. PIN-code instead of pattern lock.

πŸ’‘

If you have a Redmi Note 9/10 firmware-old MIUI 12.5, Try it instead of code ##4636## introduce ##7780## β€” This may work for resetting settings.

3. Unlocking through Recovery Mode (with loss of data)

If previous methods failed, you’ll need to use Recovery Mode, which removes all data from the device, including photos, contacts, and apps, but keeps the system running.

Instructions for Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco:

Turn off the phone (press Power + Volume up for 10 seconds)

Connect the charger (the battery must be charged at least 30%)

Make sure your PC has a backup of important data (if you synced with Mi Cloud)

Prepare. SIM-re-activation card after reset-->

  1. Turn off the phone. Press the Power button + Volume up for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
  2. From the Recovery menu, select a language (e.g. English) and then go to Wipe Data β†’ Wipe All Data.
  3. Confirm the action, wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes), the phone will restart in factory condition.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Xiaomi) 12T, Redmi K50) After resetting via Recovery, you may need to enter the data of the previous Mi Account (protection) FRP). If you don’t remember your username/password, your phone will turn into a brickΒ».

Xiaomi modelDo you need a Mi Account after a reset?Does it support unlocking via Fastboot?
Redmi Note 8/9/10Yes (if tied up)Yes.
Xiaomi Mi 11/12Yes (required)Yes (needs unlocked bootloader)
Poco X3/X4No (unless there was an FRP)Yes.
Xiaomi 13/14 seriesYes (with MIUI 14+)Yes (Mi Account authorization required)

4. Unlock via Fastboot (for advanced users)

The method via Fastboot is suitable if:

  • πŸ”§ You have an unlocked bootloader (Bootloader Unlocked).
  • πŸ’» There is access to a PC with installed ADB/Fastboot driver.
  • πŸ“± The phone is determined in Fastboot Mode (checked by the team of fastboot devices).

Step-by-step:

  1. Connect the phone off to the PC, holding Volume Down + Power until a hare in the cap appears (Fastboot logo).
  2. Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux) in the folder with fastboot.
  3. Enter the command to reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase frp fastboot reboot

⚠️ Attention: On models with MIUI 14 and later, fastboot erase frp may not work due to enhanced security, in which case you will need authorization through Mi Account even in Fastboot:

fastboot oem unlock-go

This command links the device to the account, after which unlocking becomes possible.

What if the fastboot can’t see the device?
1. Install the Mi Flash Tool drivers. 2. Check the cable - use the original USB-Type C. 3. Try another USB port (preferably 2.0). 4. In Windows Device Manager, update the driver for "Android Bootloader Interface."

5. Xiaomi’s Official Service Center: When Nothing Helps

If all of these methods do not work, you need to contact an authorized Xiaomi service center.

  • πŸ” Locked devices FRP (Google Factory Reset Protection).
  • πŸ“± Phones that previously unlocked the bootloader, but now require authorization Mi Account.
  • πŸ’” Devices with damaged firmware after unsuccessful manipulations.

What you need to unlock in the service:

  • πŸ“„ Document confirming the purchase (check, warranty card).
  • πŸ”‘ Data associated with Mi Account (if any).
  • πŸ’³ Payment for the service (from 1,500 to 5 000 rubles depending on the model).

⚠️ Note: Unofficial services often offer "circumvention" FRP» 500-1000 rubles, but it is fraught with:

  • 🚨 Blocking. IMEI (The phone will become a brick without a network).
  • πŸ”„ Unstable work after firmware (accidental reboots, application errors).
  • πŸ“΅ Loss of warranty (if the device is under warranty).

πŸ’‘

Xiaomi’s official service is the only legal way to unlock if the Mi Account password is forgotten and FRP protection is enabled.

How to avoid blocking in the future: 5 tips from Xiaomi

To avoid being in this situation again, follow the recommendations:

  • πŸ” Use a fingerprint or facial recognition as an additional unlock method (Settings) β†’ Password and security β†’ Add a print).
  • ☁️ Enable automatic synchronization with Mi Cloud (Settings) β†’ Mi Account β†’ Synchronization).
  • πŸ“ Write your Mi Account password to a secure location (e.g., Google Password Manager or Google Password Manager). 1Password).
  • πŸ”„ Regularly back up through Settings β†’ Additionally. β†’ Backup.
  • πŸ“± Set up a Smart Lock to automatically unlock in secure places (such as at home or work).

⚠️ Warning: Never turn off Find Device (Settings) β†’ Google β†’ Security β†’ Find My Device: This feature not only helps you find your lost phone, but also serves as a backup way to unlock through your Google account (on some models).

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Xiaomi

❓ Can you unlock Xiaomi without losing data?
Yes, but only if: The phone is tied to Mi Account and you remember the login details. You have Mi Cloud sync enabled (photos, contacts and some apps will recover after unlocking). PIN-Application code (e.g. WhatsApp or the Bank) will be stored. In all other cases (reset via Recovery or Fastboot), the data will be lost.
❓ Why does Recovery ask for an old Mi Account after resetting?
This is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection work that is activated if: Mi Account was tied on the phone. Settings are enabled β†’ Google β†’ Security β†’ Find My Device. The device works on MIUI 12 or later. You can’t legally circumvent this protection by entering your old account details or contacting a service center with proof of ownership.
❓ Does unlocking work through ADB, if USB-debugging off?
No, the method of unlocking through ADB (Adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key) requires prior inclusion USB-If the debugging is not activated, connect to the phone via the developer settings. ADB Exceptions are some Poco models on the MIUI 11, where the vulnerability allowed to bypass this limitation, but on current firmware this bug is eliminated.
❓ Can you unlock Xiaomi through Google Account?
On Xiaomi devices with MIUI 12 and later, unlocking through Google Account (like the old Samsung or LG) doesn’t work. Instead, it uses: Mi Account is the main method. Find My Device is only for remote reset (data will be lost). MIUI 10/11 sometimes helps to enter the wrong password 5 times β†’ Forgot the password? β†’ Google data entry, but this is not guaranteed.
❓ What to do if you disappear after unlocking IMEI?
This is a critical error that occurs when: Incorrect use of Fastboot commands (e.g., fastboot erase) modemst1). Install unofficial firmware without backing up NV-data. Interrupt the firmware process. Solution: Restore IMEI via the engineering menu (#4636## β†’ Phone information. Use the utility. QCN Rebuilder (requires root rights) Contact the service center to flash the modem section. ⚠️ Attention: Self-recovery IMEI It could lead to a network lockdown by an operator, and it's best to trust the professionals.