The Xiaomi Mi 9 SE, launched in 2019, is still a popular compact device thanks to its powerful processor and high-quality screen. However, over time, the MIUI operating system can accumulate software errors, cache files become incorrect, and the interface begins to work unstable. In such situations, the only effective solution is a complete return to the original state, which allows you to eliminate software failures and return the device to its previous speed.
The reset process, or Hard Reset, involves completely removing all user information, including contacts, photos, installed apps and personal settings. Before starting the procedure, it is critical to make sure that you have backed up important data in the cloud or on your computer. You also need to charge the device battery to at least 50-60% so that a sudden power outage during the overwriting of system files does not lead to a breakdown.
In this guide, we will look at two main methods of performing resets: through the standard operating system settings menu and through Recovery mode. The first option is suitable for cases where the phone turns on and responds to commands, and the second is necessary if the device freezes or cannot boot normally. Following the instructions will allow you to safely update the software environment of your Mi 9 SE.
Preparation of the device for the discharge procedure
Before you initiate the cleanup process, you need to perform a number of preparatory actions that will ensure the security of the data and the successful completion of the operation. Ignoring these steps can lead to the loss of important information or lock the device with the security mechanisms of Google and Xiaomi. Make sure you remember the data from your Mi Account and Google account, as after the reset, the system will require them to confirm the rights of the owner.
First, backup. Xiaomi smartphones have a built-in tool to save contacts, messages, call history, and even the location of icons on the desktop. → Advanced settings → Backup and restore and create a backup SD-map or internal memory (if it is not formatted). For photos and videos, it is better to use synchronization with Google Photos or Mi Cloud.
⚠️ Note: If the device has a pattern installed, PIN-The unlock code or password, remember them, and when you reset, the phone will require you to enter data from a Google account that was synced earlier (FRP), It is impossible to get around simple methods without losing data.
The second important step is to disable theft protection if you plan to transfer the device to another person. → Advanced settings → Confidentiality → Find the device and turn off this function by entering the password from the Mi Account. SIM-microSD card and memory card before the procedure to avoid accidental formatting or data corruption.
☑️ Preparation for the Mi 9 reset SE
Method 1: Reset via the MIUI settings menu
The safest and easiest way to get the Xiaomi Mi 9 SE back to factory settings is available right from the operating system.This method is ideal for users who want to sell the phone, give it away or just start using it from scratch without facing critical boot errors. MIUI provides a handy wizard that guides you through all the stages.
To start, open the main app menu and find the Settings icon (usually a gear icon). In the list that opens, scroll down to About Phone. This is where the basic management tools are hidden. At the bottom of the screen, you'll see the Reset button or Erase all data. Pressing this button will trigger the process of checking the device for active accounts.
The system will display a warning that all data will be deleted. If you have "Find your device" protection enabled, you will need to enter the password from your Mi Account. Once confirmed, a list of what will be deleted will open: personal files, applications, system settings and accounts. Make sure that the "Clear internal memory" box is set if you want to delete absolutely everything, including music and downloads.
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Before the final click of the Reset button, check that all important files have been transferred to the computer or the cloud, and it will be impossible to recover data after this step without a prior backup.
Once you press the final Reset (or Next, Reset) button, the phone will restart and the formatting process will begin. The screen can go out and light up several times. The whole process takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of memory filled, and you will see a welcome language selection screen, as when you first turn on a new smartphone.
Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode
If the MIUI is not booting, the phone is stuck on the logo or the touch screen is not responsive to touch, the Recovery Mode method is used, which is deeper and allows you to clear the memory even when the interface is not working.
To enter Recovery mode on the Xiaomi Mi 9 SE, turn the device off completely first. Then simultaneously press the Volume Up and Power button. Hold both buttons until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button, but continue to hold the volume until the Recovery menu appears. The default language of the interface is often English or Chinese.
In the Recovery menu, you can navigate with volume buttons (up/down), and you can select a point with a power button. You can find Wipe Data (or Clear Data). In this menu, select the Wipe All Data option. The system will require confirmation of action, you usually need to choose Confirm or Yes. After that, the cleaning process will begin.
⚠️ Attention: In Recovery mode, the touch screen does not work. All actions are performed only with mechanical buttons. Do not confuse the Wipe Data item with Wipe Cache if your goal is a complete reset, not just cleaning temporary files.
When the process is complete, the screen will display the words “Data wiped successfully.” To exit, select Back to Main Menu, then Reboot → Reboot to System. The first download after such a reset can last longer than usual (up to 10 minutes), as the system takes time to initialize all services.
What to do if you recover in Chinese?
What to do if your phone requires an account after a reset
After completing the Hard Reset procedure and first download, you may encounter an activation screen where the system requires you to enter the login and password of a Google account or Mi Account. This is a standard security measure called FRP (Factory Reset Protection), implemented to protect the owner’s data in the event of theft or loss of the device.
If you own the phone, just enter the account that was synced to the device before the reset. It's important to understand that the system checks the account that was the main one. If you changed your password recently, use a new one. In case you forget the data, it will take time to restore access through the standard password recovery procedures on Google or Xiaomi sites.
If you have a handheld device and the previous owner has not untied your account, you will need their help. Without the previous owner's right credentials, you will not be able to fully use your smartphone. This is not a defect in the device, but a working security mechanism that cannot be circumvented software without special knowledge and tools.
Below is a table that helps determine the status of the block and the necessary actions:
| Type of lockdown | Cause of the occurrence | Action required | Risk of data loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google FRP | Reset via Recovery or buttons | Entering Gmail and Password of the Owner | High (without password access is impossible) |
| Mi Account Lock | The enabled function "Find the device" | Entering a password from the Mi Account | Medium (can be removed remotely) |
| Lock screen | Forgotten pattern lock or PIN | Reset via Recovery (remove data) | Complete (data deleted upon reset) |
Possible problems and solutions
Despite the simplicity of the procedure, users of Xiaomi Mi 9 SE can face a number of technical difficulties. One of the common problems is a bootloop, when the phone is endlessly rebooted, the Mi logo, but does not load the system to the end.
If you see an endless reboot, try to force the reboot by holding the power button for 15-20 seconds. If that doesn't help, you may need to flash the device using your computer and the Mi Flash Tool. Also, the cause may be a malfunction of the volume button, which is stuck and constantly signals to enter Recovery.
Another common problem is the formatting error ("Data wipe failed"). This often happens if the internal memory of a device has physical damage or if the process has been interrupted. In such cases, repeating the procedure through Recovery sometimes helps, but if the error is repeated, it is likely that a replacement of the memory module or a comprehensive repair at the service center is required.
⚠️ Warning: If the phone warms up in the processor area even in a simple one after a reset, this may indicate a driver software conflict or hardware malfunction.Do not ignore overheating, as it can cause the motherboard to fail.
In some cases, after a reset, the network may disappear or Wi-Fi may stop working. This is a rare but possible failure of modem calibration. To solve the problem, reset the network settings (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset the settings APN) or re-flash the modem section.
Setup Xiaomi Mi 9 SE after resetting
After the procedure is successfully completed and the initial setup is complete, the device will look like you just got it out of the box.However, to make the Xiaomi Mi 9 SE work as efficiently as possible, it is recommended to follow a few additional optimization steps.
Check for system updates first. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI. Even if the phone was reset, it might not have been the latest version of the software that contains important security patches at the time of purchase. Updating to the latest available version will ensure stability.
Next, optimise autonomy. MIUI is known for its aggressive energy saving, but after resetting, it is worth manually checking the battery settings for frequently used applications (messengers, navigator), preventing the system from unloading them from memory. Also disabling unnecessary geolocation and advertising services in the Password and Security section → Privacy → Advertising Services.
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The correct initial setup after reset affects the speed and autonomy of the smartphone in the future more than the fact of reset.
In conclusion, regular software maintenance, including periodic resets (once every 1-2 years of active use), allows you to significantly extend the life of the smartphone. Xiaomi Mi 9 SE has an excellent hardware base, and a clean system will allow it to remain fast and responsive for a long time.