How to unlock a Xiaomi smartphone if you forgot Mi Account: a step-by-step guide

Mi Account passwords on Xiaomi smartphones are one of the most common problems with the brand’s users, and locking systems linked to the account protects the device from unauthorized access, but can be a serious obstacle if you don’t remember the login details. Unlike the standard pattern lock or PIN-Unblocking through Mi Account requires proof of ownership, which complicates the process.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways of unlocking, from official methods through Xiaomi support to alternative solutions for devices with MIUI 12-14. It is important to understand that not all methods guarantee data security: some lead to a complete reset, we will also explain how to avoid blocking in the future and what to do if the smartphone requires confirmation after a reset via Fastboot.

Why Xiaomi is blocked through Mi Account

The Mi Account anchor system has emerged in Xiaomi as a response to the growing number of smartphone thefts, and works on the principle of "Factory Reset Protection" (FRP) - even after resetting, the device requires you to enter the account data that was tied to the latter, this applies to all models, starting with the Redmi Note 3 (2016) and later.

The main reasons for blocking:

• 🔐 Several failed attempts to enter a password – the system automatically blocks access and requires confirmation through Mi Account.
• 📱 Resetting your account without detachment – if you did Hard Reset through Recovery but didn’t remove the binding.
• 🛠️ Buying a used phone with a tied account - the previous owner did not untie the device.
• 🔄 Update MIUI error-sometimes after firmware, the system requests a re-authorization.

Unlike Google FRP, which can be circumvented through ADB or special services, Mi Account blocking is considered one of the most reliable, but it has vulnerabilities, which we will discuss later.

Official way: unlocking through Xiaomi support

The most legal and safe method is to contact Xiaomi Support, which is suitable if you are the legitimate owner of the device and can document it, the process takes 3 to 14 days, but guarantees unlocking without the risk of “bricking” the smartphone.

Step-by-step:

1. Go to the Mi Account website and try to regain access via email or phone number.
2. If recovery is not possible, fill out the contact form on Xiaomi’s support page.
3. Attach scans of documents: 📄 Check or purchase invoice (with the serial number of the device). 🆔 Passport or other document confirming identity. 📱 Photo Photo IMEI (You can find it in *#06# or on the box).

Wait for the response from the support – usually an email comes with an unlock instruction or confirmation code.

⚠️ Note: If you bought your phone with your hands, ask the previous owner to untie the device via Settings → Mi Account. → Delete your account. Without it, your name's not gonna help.

Check/invoice with serial number | Passport or ID |IMEI Photo (2 pieces - from the box and screen) |Screenshot of the locking error (if any)

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Unlocking through Mi Unlock Tool (for flashed devices)

If the official method is too long, you can try to unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool utility. This method only works for devices that previously had Bootloader unlocked (even if it is now re-locked), Suitable for models Redmi Note 8/9/10/11, POCO X3/F3, Mi 10/11 and later.

Algorithm of action:

1. Download Mi Unlock Tool (version no lower than 5.5.224.24).
2. Install Xiaomi drivers for Fastboot (you can use the Mi Flash Tool).
3. Turn off the phone and press Volume Down + Power to log into the Fastboot.
4. Connect the device to your PC and launch the Mi Unlock Tool. Sign in with the same Mi Account that is linked to your phone.
5. Click Unlock and wait until the process is complete (it may take up to 720 hours to wait if the account is new).

🔹 Limitations of method:

• ⏳ Requires waiting time (3 to 30 days for new accounts).
• 🔌 It doesn’t work if the Bootloader never unlocked.
• 📵 After unlocking all data will be erased.

Alternative methods: EDL and TestPoint

For devices where the Mi Unlock Tool does not work, there are hardware methods of unlocking through the EDL (Emergency Download Mode) and TestPoint modes. These methods require special equipment and skills, but allow you to bypass the lock even on new models (Redmi Note 12, POCO F5).

Comparison of methods:

⚠️ Attention: Methods EDL TestPoint and TestPoint can cause the device to break if it is not done correctly. TestPoint requires ration of contacts on the board, which cancels the warranty.

💡

If you choose to use EDL, download the firmware only from official sources (e.g. Xiaomi Firmware Updater). Unofficial files may contain malware or incorrect drivers that "brick" the phone.

Bypassing locking through FRP reset (for older models)

On devices with MIUI 9-11 (pre-released 2020 You can try to bypass the lock through a vulnerability in the recovery system. 4/5/6, Mi A1/A2 and other Android-based models 7-9.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone and press Volume Up + Power to enter Recovery.
2. Select a language (if available) and go to Wipe Data → Wipe All Data.
3. After reset, go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.
4. At the setup stage, connect to Wi-Fi and instead of entering Mi Account data: Click on the email input field and hold until the Help menu appears. Choose Add Google account and log in via any Gmail. Once logged in, go back - the lock should disappear.

🔹 Why does it work? On older versions. MIUI After the reset, the system allowed you to add a Google Account bypassing the Mi Account.

💡

FRP bypassing only works on devices until 2020, and MIUI 12+ is useless, requiring official unlocking or hardware techniques.

What to do if nothing helps: extreme measures

If all of these methods fail, there are some radical solutions that are guaranteed to unlock the phone, but have serious consequences:

• 🔧 Flip-through SP Flash Tool – suitable for devices on MediaTek processors (Redmi) 9/10, POCO C3/C4). Requires Scatter file download and complete memory erasure.
• 🛠️ Replace the motherboard – if the phone is critical, you can replace the fee with a new one (with another) IMEI), But it is expensive and inappropriate for budget models.
• 📦 Sale for parts – if the device is of no value, it can be disassembled and sold working components (screen, battery, camera).

⚠️ Attention: Flip-through through SP Flash Tool or QFil without experience can lead to loss of the experience IMEI If you're not sure about your skills, contact the service center.

💡 Tip: Before selling a locked phone, be sure to indicate in the ad that the device is tied to the Mi Account.This will save you from customer claims and possible disputes.

How to avoid blocking in the future

To avoid the problem of a blocked Mi Account, follow the simple rules:

• 🔑 Create a backup copy of the recovery code – link to your account email and phone, and save the backup code (it can be obtained in Settings). → Mi Account. → Security).
• 📱 Untie your account before selling – log out of your account and reset your settings.
• 🔄 Update. MIUI regular – new firmware versions fix vulnerabilities, but also add legal ways to restore access.
• 📝 Keep a record of tied devices - in the personal account of the Mi Account you can see all the attached gadgets and remove unnecessary ones.

🔹 Important: If you often buy used Xiaomi phones, check the lock status through the Mi Verify website. IMEI Devices – the system will show whether it is linked to the account.

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Xiaomi