How to unlock Xiaomi Redmi Note 3: all working methods in 2026

Why Redmi Note 3 is blocked and what to do

A forgotten password, a pattern lock failure, or a Mi Account binding are problems that one in five Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 owners face after 2-3 years of use. The device, released in 2016, is still popular due to its reliable hardware (Snapdragon 650 processor, 3GB of RAM), but its software part requires a special approach when unlocking. Unlike modern smartphones, there is no Smart Lock feature from Google, and a standard reset via Recovery often leads to the blocking of the Mi Account (FRP).

In this article, we will discuss 5 current ways to unlock, including lossless methods (for users with USB debugging) and Forced options for bricks. Particular attention will be paid to the Redmi Note 3 Pro and Redmi Note 3 SE - their firmware have key differences in the protection algorithms. If your phone is locked after a firmware or MIUI update, there is a solution here too.

Before you start, check:

• 🔋 Battery level (minimum 30% – when unlocked via Fastboot, the phone should not turn off).
• 📥 Backup (if the phone is synced to Mi Cloud, data can be restored later).
• 🖥️ Access to Windows PC (for methods through ADB Or Mi Flash Tool).

Method 1: Unlocking with Mi Account (official method)

If the phone is linked to a Xiaomi account and you have access to an email/phone, it is the safest option, and works even after being reset via Recovery, but requires an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile network).

Instructions:

1. On the lock screen, tap “Forgot Password?” (or “Forgot Password”).
2. Choose the recovery method: Email or Phone.
3. Enter the code from the email/SMS and create a new password.
4. If the error "This device is locked" appears, then the Mi Account is not confirmed - you will need to unlock through the Mi Unlock Tool.

⚠️ Note: If you bought a phone with your hands, the previous owner could not unplug the account. In this case, it is impossible to officially unlock the device - you will need to contact Xiaomi with proof of purchase (check, contract).

Method 2: Recovery Mode (with loss of data)

The most versatile method, but it removes all data from the phone, including photos, contacts and apps, Suitable for the Redmi Note 3 on any version of MIUI (including MIUI 12 and later).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone (press Power + Volume up for 10 seconds).
2. Press Power + Volume up until the Mi logo appears.
3. In the Recovery menu, select “Wipe Data” (use volume buttons for navigation, Power buttons for confirmation).
4. Confirm the reset by choosing "Yes."
5. After restarting, set your phone as new.

⚠️ Note: Redmi Note 3 Pro with firmware MIUI 10+ After the reset, a blockage may appear FRP (Factory Reset Protection: To get around it, you will need to enter data from your linked Mi Account or use the bypass method. FRP.

Method 3: Unlocking through ADB (without data loss)

This method only works if the phone is debugging enabled. USB (USB Debugging) and access to a PC, suitable for unlocking a pattern lock or PIN-code.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11.
• 📱 USB-cable (original, without damage).
• 🛠️ Utilities. ADB Fastboot (download from Google website).

Instructions:

1. Connect your phone to your PC and open the Command Prompt in the ADB folder.
2. Enter the commands in order: adb devices (should appear serial number of the device). adb shell su rm /data/system/gesture.key For PIN-Use the code: rm /data/system/password.key
3. Reboot the phone: reboot

Once you reboot, the lock screen will disappear, and if you have an error called "adbd cannot run as root," then the USB debugging is disabled, this method will not work.

💡

If the commands don’t work, try first entering adb shell pm clear com.android.providers.settings – this will reset your lock settings.

Method 4: Factory Reset Protection (FRP) bypasses after resetting

If, after resetting via Recovery, the phone requires you to enter data from a Mi Account you don't remember, you will need to bypass FRP. There are two working methods for the Redmi Note 3:

Method 1: TalkBack (MIUI 8–11)

1. On the greeting screen, click "Emergency Call".
2. Enter #4636## and the test menu will open.
3. Return to the lock screen and activate TalkBack (clip two fingers on the screen).
4. Go to Settings → Accounts and add a new Mi Account.

Method 2: Mi PC Suite (MIUI 12+)

• 📥 Download Mi. PC Suite and connect your phone to your PC.
• 🔄 In the program, select "Restore the device" - it will reset FRP.
• ⚠️ The method works only on official firmware (not custom).

💡

Bypassing FRP on Redmi Note 3 is only possible on stock firmware. If the phone was stitched with custom MIUI (e.g. xiaomi.eu), you will need to flash it through Fastboot.

Method 5: Fastboot Flashing (for experienced ones)

If other methods don't work, you just have to flash the phone over the Fastboot, which deletes all the data and returns the device to factory status.

• 🔐 Phones with damaged firmware ("bricks»).
• 📱 Devices after a failed update.
• 🔓 Bypass FRP custom-made.

Instructions:

1. Download the official firmware for Redmi Note 3 (e.g., from Xiaomi's website). Choose the Fastboot version (file with.tgz extension).
2. Unpack the archive in a folder with the Mi Flash Tool.
3. Press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot.
4. Connect your phone to your PC and start the Mi Flash Tool.
5. Select the firmware folder and click "Flash".

⚠️ Note: Redmi Note 3 Pro with Snapdragon 650 processor can not be flashed firmware from Redmi Note 3 SE (helio X10) — It'll lead to a full blink!

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even following the instructions, users often face problems, and here are the most common ones:

• 🔌 Phone is not defined in Fastboot: Check the drivers (install Mi) USB Driver) and try another cable. Windows 11 may need to disable driver signature verification.
• 🔐 Mi Unlock Tool: Means that Mi Account is not tied to your phone or the device is locked after trying too often to unlock.Solution: Wait 72 hours or use another account.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions