The blocked Recovery Mode menu on Xiaomi smartphones is a common problem that users face when trying to reset, firmware or restore the system. The manufacturer restricts access to this default mode to prevent accidental changes that can lead to a loss of warranty or a “brick” of the device. However, in some cases – for example, after a failed update or when buying a used phone – unlocking becomes necessary.
In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to unlock Recovery on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices, including official methods through the Mi Unlock Tool, workarounds for older models, as well as solutions for cases when the phone does not turn on or requires authorization of the Mi Account.
Why Recovery is Blocked on Xiaomi and What It Means
Recovery Mode is a special firmware section that allows you to perform critical operations: factory reset, install updates via ADB Sideload, or recover from the backup. On Xiaomi, this mode is blocked for two main reasons:
- 🔒 Unauthorized access protection: Manufacturer fights data theft and flashing stolen devices; Recovery is restricted without unlocking the bootloader.
- 📱 Link to Mi Account on new models (starting with the MIUI 12) even after unlocking the bootloader, you may need to authorize your Xiaomi account.
- 🛡️ Warranty Limits: Unlocking the bootloader will automatically void the warranty in most regions.
It is important to understand the difference between a blocked Recovery and a blocked bootloader:
- If you log in to Recovery and see the words “This device is locked” or “Mi Account authorization required” – the problem is in the binding to the account.
- If the Recovery menu doesn’t open at all (the phone vibrates and reboots) it’s likely that the Bootloader is blocked.
⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi models 12/13 Series and newer (with Snapdragon processors) 8 Gen 1/2) An attempt to unlock without an official tool can lead to an irreversible brik.
Unlocking with Mi Unlock Tool
The most reliable and recommended method Xiaomi uses is the Mi Unlock Tool, which is suitable for most models released after 2016, which takes 3 to 7 days due to the mandatory waiting period that the manufacturer has introduced to protect users from random actions.
Here's the step-by-step instruction:
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version. Click on the line with the version 7 times until the notification “You became a developer!” appears.
- Link the device to Mi Account: Log in to Settings → Accounts → Mi Account and log in. Enable data sync.
Allow the OEM to be unlocked
⚠️ Note: On models with Dynamic Partition (e.g. Xiaomi) 11T Pro) direct firmware TWRP This can lead to a load cycle, and then you need a patch image.
Method 2: Bypassing Mi Account authorization via EDL
EDL (Emergency Download Mode) allows you to flash the device without standard checks, which works even on locked phones, but requires:
- 🔧 Authorized account EDL (paid, ~$5–$20).
- 💻 Special cable (or contact closure Test Point).
- 📄 Firmware file in.mbn format for your model.