Xiaomi’s hidden developer mode in smartphones opens up dozens of additional options that the manufacturer hides from ordinary users. Here you can fine-tune the system’s animation, activate USB debugging for firmware via fastboot, change the GPU settings, or even overclock the processor on some models. But how do you get there if there is no default menu item?
Unlike most Android devices, where you just need to tap the build number several times, Xiaomi (especially with MIUI 14/15) can be complicated by additional security checks. In this article, we will discuss all official and alternative ways to unlock, including secret codes, bypassing locks on new devices and solving typical errors.
Why does Xiaomi not have a default developer menu?
Xiaomi deliberately hides the developer option from inexperienced users for several reasons:
- 🔧 Unstable work risk: Incorrect settings (e.g. disabling application signature verification) can lead to failures or security vulnerabilities.
- 📱 Politics MIUI: firmware MIUI It is initially focused on a simplified interface, where most parameters are automated.
- 🔒 Protection from fraud: on new models (for example, Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro)+) Developer mode activation requires Mi Account confirmation to make it harder to access data when stolen.
However, for power users and customization enthusiasts, these limitations are easy to get around. The main thing is to understand that certain parameters (for example, OEM Unlocking) can cause all data to be reset when used incorrectly. Therefore, it is recommended to back up through Settings → System → Backup before changing any settings.
How to Enable Developer Mode Through MIUI
The classic method works on most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices with MIUI 12-15 firmware.
- Open the Settings app (cog icon).
- Go to About Phone (or About Device on some models).
- Find the line MIUI version and tap it 7 times in a row, after the first 3-4 clicks will appear pop-up notification with the countdown of the remaining taps.
- The system requests PIN-code or pattern lock (if installed).
- After successful activation, a message will appear: You became a developer!
Now in the main menu Settings will appear a new item – Additional → Developer Settings (or Advanced Settings → For developers on older versions of MIUI).
Check the MIUI version (should be at least 12)
Make sure your phone is at least 50% charged.
Remember. PIN-unlock-code
Turn it off. VPN (It can block access to Xiaomi servers)-->
Alternative Unlocking Methods (if the Standard One does not work)
On some devices (especially those with MIUI 14+ or enterprise firmware), the standard method may not work, in which case, try one of the alternatives:
1. Through the secret code.
In the application Phone combination:
##4636##Then the Test menu opens, where the developer's Settings button may appear at the top of the screen, and if it's not there, move on to the next method.
2. via ADB (for advanced users)
If you already have USB Debugging unlocked on another device, connect your smartphone to your PC and follow the command:
adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.DevelopmentSettingsThis method works even if the menu item is hidden, but requires pre-configuring ADB.
3. Resetting settings (extreme case)
On some models (e.g., Xiaomi Mi A3 with Android One), the developer mode may be blocked due to a system failure, in which case the reset to factory settings via Settings → System → Settings Reset. Attention: all data will be deleted!
Why do new Xiaomis require a Mi Account binding?
What developer settings should be changed first?
Once activated successfully, you'll have access to dozens of settings, and here are the most useful and safe ones that won't harm the system:
| Setting up | Recommended value | The effect |
|---|---|---|
| Window animation | 0.5x or off. | Accelerates the opening/closing of applications |
| USB debugging | On. | Allows you to connect to your PC via ADB |
| Keep the screen down. | On (when charging) | Useful for watching long videos or streams |
| GPU-acceleration | Forced (for games only) | Maybe it's better. FPS into 3D-play-off |
| Background processes | Standard constraint | Increasing the value will speed up multitasking but reduce battery life |
⚠️ Warning: Change settings Inactive applications, Restriction of background processes or Disable Signature Verification may result in system instability or security vulnerabilities!
💡
On Snapdragon models (such as Xiaomi 13 Ultra), you can activate the “Force 4x MSAA” option in the developer menu to improve graphics in games, but this increases battery load by 15-20%.
What if the developer mode disappears after the update?
After major MIUI updates (like version 13 to version 14), the developer settings can be reset or disappear from the menu.
- Repeat activation: sometimes just tap the MIUI version 7 times.
- Clear the settings cache: Go to Settings → Applications → Application Management. Find the Settings app. Select Storage → Clear the cache.
- Reset the access rights: adb shell pm clear com.android.settings (ADB connection required).
If nothing works, check to see if your device has enterprise or regional firmware installed (e.g. China) and if some versions of MIUI artificially restrict access to developer mode, only flashing to a global version will help.
💡
After updating MIUI, always check the status of the developer mode. If it is missing, first try standard activation through the MIUI version - in 80% of cases this solves the problem.
Dangerous settings: what can not be touched without experience?
Some options on the developer menu can permanently damage the device or make it vulnerable to attacks.
- 🔓 OEM Unlocking – Unlocking the bootloader erases all data and can lead to a “brick” (if you interrupt the process).
- 🛡️ Disable signature verification – allows you to install malicious APK without warning.
- ⚡ Forced. GPU-Acceleration – on weak devices (e.g. Redmi) 9A) overheat.
- 📡 Modem mode – incorrect settings can block the network.
⚠️ Note: On devices with a MediaTek processor (for example, Redmi Note 12), changing the settings of the Preferred network type or Mobile data always active can lead to loss of communication with the network.
If you accidentally changed your critical setting and your phone stopped working, try:
- Reverse changes manually (if the system is still booting).
- Reset settings via Recovery Mode (clip Power + Volume up when turned on).
- Reflash the device through the Mi Flash Tool (you will need an unlocked bootloader).
Developer mode on Xiaomi with a blocked bootloader
On new Xiaomi devices (released after 2022), the bootloader is locked by default, which means that even after activating the developer mode, you will not be able to:
- 🔄 Install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience).
- 📱 Get root rights through Magisk.
- 🔧 Modifying system files.
To unlock the bootloader, follow the following steps:
- Activate the Developer Mode (as described above).
- Enable options: OEM Unlocking (OEM unlock) USB Debugging (USB debugging)
fastboot oem unlock(You will need Mi Unlock Tool and Mi Account).
⚠️ Important: Unlocking the bootloader completely erases all data on the device, including photos, contacts and apps. L1 viewable HD-Content may stop working.