Forgotten password from Mi Account on Xiaomi smartphone without access to the SIM-The system blocks not only the screen, but also access to the basic functions of the device, requiring authorization through an account from which data is lost. PIN-Unlocking through Mi Cloud will not help here: SIM-Restore access cards through SMS It is not possible, and alternative methods (such as backup mail) are often disabled or unavailable.
In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to unlock Xiaomi without SIM-Mi Account cards and passwords, including formal and informal methods, from Fastboot resets to exploiting firmware vulnerabilities. Importantly, some methods require prior preparation (e.g., enabled debugging by Fastboot). USB), Others only work on older Redmi models or POCO. We will specify the limitations for each method and warn against the risks β from data loss to complete βbrickingβ of the device.
If you are looking for a solution for a particular model (such as Xiaomi 12T, Redmi Note 11 or POCO X5), pay attention to the compatibility table at the end of the article. We will also answer frequent questions: can you bypass the lock without a computer, what to do if the phone requires an old password after reset, and how to avoid re-locking in the future.
Why Xiaomi is blocked through Mi Account and can it be bypassed?
The Mi Account lock is part of Xiaomi's security system that links the device to the owner's account, and it works in three ways:
- π When resetting (Hard Reset) via Recovery Mode.
- π± When you try to flash the device through Fastboot or EDL.
- π When flashing on custom firmware (for example, LineageOS).
Technically, the lock is implemented through anti-rollback protection in the bootloader and verification of Mi Cloud certificates. Without correct account data, the system considers the device stolen and blocks access. This protection can only be circumvented legally through the official Xiaomi service, but this requires proof of ownership (check, box or IMEI).
Informal unlocking methods exploit vulnerabilities in the firmware or bootloader, such as:
- π οΈ On older models (until 2019) it was possible to bypass the lock through the EDL (Emergency mode) with tools like Mi Flash.
- π§ On some devices with unlocked bootloader works bypass through TWRP and modified files persist.
- π‘ New models (2020)+ often only a replacement of the eMMC board or chip helps NAND, equivalent.
β οΈ Note: All unofficial methods violate Xiaomiβs terms of use and may result in a loss of warranty.In addition, after unlocking some features (such as Mi Pay or Find Device) may stop working.
Method 1: Unlock via Fastboot (for devices with unlocked bootloader)
If your Xiaomi has previously unlocked a bootloader (for example, to install custom firmware), you can try to bypass the Mi Account lock through Fastboot mode. POCO 2018β2021 year of release, but requires a computer with installed drivers ADB/Fastboot.
Step-by-step:
- Turn off your phone and press the button combination to log in to Fastboot: For most models: Power + Volume down. For POCO F1/F2/F3: Power + Volume up.
Connect the device to the PC
Open the command line.
ADB
fastboot oem clean_allThis command clears Mi Account data from the persist section.
Reset the device
fastboot rebootIf the lock is still locked after the restart, try the alternative command:
fastboot erase persistβ οΈ Note: On new models (Xiaomi) 13/14, Redmi Note 12) This method may not work due to the updated anti-rollback protection. 4.0. Also after the execution of commands, erasure is possible. IMEI β Be prepared for additional settings.
Install the drivers ADB/Fastboot|Download the Mi Flash Tool (for the first time) EDL)|Check the model for compatibility|Backup data (if possible)-->
Method 2: Using a vulnerability in Recovery Mode (for old firmware)
On devices with MIUI firmware versions 10-12 (2018-2021), there was a vulnerability that allows you to bypass the Mi Account lock through the Recovery Mode menu.
- π± The device was not updated after purchase.
- π Recovery is available at Mount /system.
- π οΈ The phone has a stock firmware (not custom).
Instructions:
- Turn off the phone and press Power + Volume up to enter Recovery Mode.
- Select a language (if available) and go to Advanced β File Manager.
- Find the file. /data/system/mi_account_info.xml and remove it.
- Restart the device via Reboot β System.
If the file mi_account_info.xml missing, try to remove:
/data/system/accounts.db
/data/system/accounts.db-wal| Xiaomi model | MIUI version | Does the method work? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 7/8 | 10β11 | β Yes. | Stock Recovery Required |
| POCO F1 | 10β12 | β Yes. | Maybe you need a root. |
| Mi 9/9T | 11β12.5 | β οΈ Partially. | It only works on early builds. |
| Redmi Note 10 | 12+ | β No. | The vulnerability is closed in MIUI 12.0.3+ |
What to do if Recovery Mode is blocked by a password?
Method 3: EDL (Emergency Mode) bypassing Mi Flash
EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is a service mode for firmware Xiaomi devices that allows you to overwrite the persist partition with Mi Account data. The method works on most models, but requires:
- π₯οΈ Windows computer and Qualcomm drivers HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
- π Firmware for your model (you can download it on Xiaomi Firmware Updater).
- π§ Mi Flash Tool (official utility from Xiaomi).
Step-by-step:
- Put the device in mode. EDL: Turn off the phone. Press the volume up. + Loud down and plug in. USB-Hold the buttons for 10-15 seconds until the display goes out (the device will not display the boot).
Check the connection:
Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008
Launch the Mi Flash Tool
Flash
Wait for completion
Once the firmware is in place, the device will restart in its clean state without being tied to the Mi Account, but there are risks:
- π¨ Possible loss IMEI (Remediation is required QCN-file).
- π On new models (Snapdragon) 8 Gen 1/2) EDL It may be locked hardware.
Fastboot|Recovery Mode|EDL|Talked to the service |Nothing tried-->
Method 4: Officially Delete Mi Accounts through Xiaomi
If informal methods have not helped or you are afraid of damaging the device, you can contact the official Xiaomi service to remove the Mi Account binding. This method is legal, but requires proof of ownership.
- π Check or invoice for the purchase of the phone (with indication) IMEI).
- π¦ Original box (preferably).
- π Passport of the holder (to confirm the identity).
Procedure:
- Find the nearest Xiaomi service center.
- Provide documents and equipment to the specialists.
- Pay for the service (the cost varies from 500 to 2000 rubles depending on the model).
- Wait until unlocked (usually takes 1-3 days).
Advantages of the method:
- β Guaranteed result without risk to the device.
- β Maintenance of official guarantee.
Disadvantages:
- β It takes time and documents.
- β It does not work for devices purchased βby handβ without a check.
β οΈ Some services may offer an βalternativeβ unlock through replacement of the eMMC board. This method works, but it costs more (3000-5000 rubles) and is actually equivalent to repair.
Method 5: Alternative methods (for advanced users)
If the standard methods don't work, you can try more sophisticated techniques that require technical skills, and they're suitable for devices with an unlocked bootloader or custom TWRP.
Method 1: Removal mi_account_info through TWRP
If the device has custom recovery TWRP installed, follow the following steps:
- Download to TWRP (usually Power + Volume Up).
- Go to Advanced β File Manager.
- Delete the files: /data/system/mi_account_info.xml /data/system/accounts.db
- Reset the device.
Method 2: Firmware of modified boot.img
On some models (POCO X3, Redmi Note 9) you can flash a modified boot.img with Mi Account check disabled.
- Download modified boot.img for your model (see the XDA Developers or 4PDA forums).
- Fastboot: fastboot flash boot.img fastboot reboot
Risks:
- π¨ Possible bootloop (rounded loading).
- π New models (MIUI 13+) This method may not work due to DM-Verity.
π‘
Before the firmware of the modified boot.img Make the original backup with the command fastboot dump boot boot_original.img. This will help to restore the device in case of an error.
What to do after unlocking: how to avoid re-blocking
After successfully unlocking Mi Account, it is important to take steps to ensure that the situation does not happen again.
- π Create a new Mi Account and link it to your device. Use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication.
- π§ Add a backup email and phone number to restore.
- π± Turn off Mi Account lock in settings (if possible): go to Settings β Xiaomi account β The device β Disable the lockdown.
- π Update your firmware regularly, but avoid bet versions MIUI, Where new blocking bugs may appear.
Also useful:
- π Save it. IMEI and the serial number of the device in a secure location (e.g., cloud storage).
- π§ Unlock the bootloader in advance (if you plan to install custom firmware) and make it easier to unlock in the future.
β οΈ Attention: On devices with MIUI 14 and later, disabling the Mi Account lock may not be available due to Xiaomiβs tightened security policy.
π‘
Even after unlocking, do not remove the old Mi Account from the system β this may lead to the protection being activated again the next time you reset.