How to unlock Xiaomi if you forget your password: save data

A forgotten password on Xiaomi is a situation that one in five users face. The main problem is that a standard Recovery reset erases all data, including photos, contacts and messages. But there are legal ways to unlock without losing information, if you act carefully and follow proven algorithms.

In this article, we will discuss all the current Xiaomi unlock methods (including models from 2023-2026) that run on MIUI 14/15 and HyperOS firmware. From official restoration via Mi Account to technical workarounds using ADB and Fastboot. Importantly, not all methods are universal – their effectiveness depends on the firmware version, device model and status of the Mi Account.

Before you start, check:

• 🔒 Is there a Mi Account attached (even if you don’t remember your login/password).
• 📱 Is it on the device? OTG-Requirement (required for some methods).
• 🔧 Is there access to a PC with installed Xiaomi drivers.

1 Unlocking through Mi Account (official method)

The most reliable and safe method is if the account Mi is tied on a smartphone. It works even on a locked screen, but requires access to the email or phone number to which the account is linked.

Algorithm of action:

1. On the locked screen, tap Forgot Password? (or Forgot Password).
2. Choose the recovery method: SMS or Email.
3. Enter the confirmation code received on the linked number/mail.
4. Create a new password or pattern lock.

⚠️ Note: If two-factor authentication is enabled on your device, you will need to enter code from the Mi Security app (available only on another device with the same account).

2. Bypassing the lock via ADB (for power users)

The method is suitable if the smartphone is enabled debugging over USB (USB Debugging) and there is access to a PC. It works on MIUI 12-15 and HyperOS, but requires installed ADB drivers.

Step-by-step:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC via USB (use the original cable).
2. Open the command line (Win + R → cmd) and type: adb devices The device should appear in the list.
3. Follow the commands in turn: adb shell su rm /data/system/gesture.key rm /data/system/password.key rm /data/system/locksettings.db rm /data/system/locksettings.db-wal rm /data/system/locksettings.db-shm reboot

After restarting, the screen lock will be reset. ⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi Note) 11/12, POCO F4/F5) This method can cause data loss in applications (but the files in the memory will remain).

Install Xiaomi drivers on PC|Turn it on. USB Debugging before blocking|Use the original USB-cable|Check the version. ADB (not less than 1.0.41)-->

3 Unlocking via Fastboot (without data loss)

The method works if the device unlocked the bootloader (Bootloader Unlocked). Suitable for models Xiaomi 11T/12/13, Redmi K40/K50 and others with Snapdragon processors.

Instructions:

1. Turn off your smartphone and press the power. + Vol− for the entrance to the Fastboot.
2. Connect the device to the PC and check the connection with the command: fastboot devices
3. Run the command to delete the lock files: fastboot erase userdata But instead use: fastboot delete-logical-partition product (this will save user data).
4. Reboot the device: fastboot reboot

⚠️ Note: On HyperOS devices, this method can cause a cyclic reboot, in which case you will need firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.

4.Use of Safe Mode (Temporary Bypass)

If a third-party launcher is installed on the device (for example, Nova Launcher), you can try temporarily bypassing the lock through Safe Mode.

How to activate:

1. On a locked screen, hold the Power button until the off menu appears.
2. Press and hold the “Stop” (or “Power off”) option before a Safe Mode login request appears.
3. Confirm the transition. The device will restart in safe mode.
4. Remove or disable an application that may have caused a lock (such as App Lock).

⚠️ Warning: Safe Mode disables all third-party applications, including Google Services, which may result in loss of synchronization of data (such as contacts or notes).

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If Safe Mode doesn’t help, try connecting your device to Wi-Fi in this mode and restoring access through Mi Account (if your account was linked).

5 Unlocking through Xiaomi Service Centers

If the independent methods do not work, official Xiaomi service centers can unlock the device without loss of data, but only if the following conditions are met:

• 📄 Availability of a check or warranty card (proof of purchase).
• 🆔 Device not blacklisted (not stolen).
• 🔐 Your smartphone has a Mi Account attached (even if you don’t remember the data).

The cost of the service: from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles (depending on the model), the term - 1-3 working days, the guarantee of data security is provided only in authorized centers.

📍 How to find the nearest service:

1. Go to the Xiaomi Service website.
2. Select City and Service Type: Unlock Device.
3. Check out the reviews about the center (avoid unofficial workshops).

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Official unlocking in the service is the only legal way to guarantee the safety of data 100%.

6. Alternative methods (with the risk of data loss)

If none of the above methods work, there are radical measures that do not guarantee the safety of data, but can return access to the device:

• 🔄 Hard Reset via Recovery: Wipes all data but unlocks your smartphone. To log in to Recovery, press Power + Vol+.
• 📥 Firmware via Mi Flash Tool: Suitable for devices with unlocked Bootloader. Use fastboot firmware (not clean all!).
• 🔧 Use of boxes (MTK/Qualcomm): It requires special equipment and skills, suitable for models on MediaTek (Redmi). 9/10) or Snapdragon (POCO X3).

⚠️ Attention: Firmware through EDL-Emergency loading mode on new models (Xiaomi) 13/14, Redmi Note 12) It can be permanently blocked IMEI, if you use unofficial firmware.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When trying to unlock, users often face typical problems:

🔹 Tip: Before any manipulations, make a backup IMEI (If the device is defined in Fastboot. Use the command to do this:

fastboot getvar imei

Save the output to the text file.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions