How to Reset Your Android Password Without Losing Data: A Guide for Xiaomi (Redmi, POCO, Black Shark)

The forgotten password on Xiaomi’s smartphone 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 ways to get around the lock without losing information — if you act carefully and use hidden MIUI features or developer tools.

In this article, we will discuss 5 proven methods that work on most Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO and Black Shark models (including devices with Qualcomm and MediaTek chips). Importantly, the effectiveness of the method depends on the version of MIUI, Mi Account status and the availability of debugging over USB. Not all methods are universal – some require preliminary preparation (for example, a Xiaomi account or a developer mode is enabled).

Warning: If the device activates the Reset Data Protection feature (available on MIUI 12+), the chances of saving files are minimal, in which case only the official unlocker from Xiaomi remains - but it erases all the contents of the memory.

1 Unlocking through Mi Account (official method)

The most reliable method is if you have previously linked your Xiaomi account to a device, works even when USB debugging is off and the bootloader is locked, and is suitable for all models, including the Redmi Note 9 Pro, POCO F3 and Mi 11 Ultra.

Algorithm of action:

• 📱 On the lock screen, tap Forgot your password? (or Forgot password? on English firmware).
• 🔑 Select the recovery option via Mi Account (you will need to enter the login and password).
• 📧 A confirmation code will arrive on the attached email or phone number.
• 🔓 Enter the code – the system will prompt you to create a new password or PIN.

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ It does not work if the Xiaomi account was not tied before the lock.
• ❌ On some firmware (for example, MIUI Global for Europe) Forgot your password? may not be available.
• ❌ If the device was bought from hand and tied to someone else’s account, unlocking is possible only through the official Xiaomi service (you need a check or box).

⚠️ Note: After 5 failed attempts to enter a password MIUI It can block the recovery from Mi Account for 24 hours. If it happens, wait a day or try other ways.

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If you don't remember the password from Mi Account, try to restore it through the recovery page. Use the backup email or phone number provided when you register.

2. Reset password via ADB (USB debugging required)

The method is for advanced users who have enabled USB debugging beforehand (Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version → 7 taps by build number → Developers → USB debugging). If this option has been activated, the chances of success are high.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/Linux/macOS.
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).
• 🛠️ Utilities. ADB and Fastboot.

Step-by-step:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC via USB.
2. Open the command prompt (Win + R → enter cmd) and execute: adb devices If the device appears in the list, move to the next step. If not, install Xiaomi drivers or try another cable.
3. Enter the command to delete the password: adb shell rm /data/system/gesture.key adb shell rm /data/system/locksettings.db adb shell rm /data/system/locksettings.db-wal adb shell rm /data/system/locksettings.db-shm
4. Reboot the device: adb reboot

Once you reset, the password will be reset, but your fingerprints and pattern lock can be saved. If the lock screen is still active, try entering any password you want, the system should skip.

⚠️ Attention: MIUI 13+ coded FBE (File-Based Encryption: This method can result in loss of access to internal memory.Pre-use check the encryption status in Settings → Additionally. → Confidentiality → Encryption.

Make sure the debugging is done USB was activated before the lockdown|Download the latest version ADB Tools|Connect the original USB-cable|Check the visibility of the device by the team `adb devices`|Backup of important data (if possible)-->

3. Use of Fastboot mode (for devices with unlocked bootloader)

If you’ve ever unlocked a bootloader through Xiaomi’s official tool, you can try resetting your password via Fastboot, a method that’s suitable for POCO F1, Redmi K20 Pro and other Qualcomm chip-powered devices.

Warning: The wrong commands in Fastboot can permanently damage the firmware. Use this method only if you are confident in your actions.

Instructions:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume down to log into the Fastboot.
3. Connect your device to your PC and check its visibility: fastboot devices
4. Run the command to reset the lock: fastboot erase userdata This command only erases data in the user settings section, but does not affect media files (photos, videos, music) on devices with MIUI 12 and below.
5. Reboot the device: fastboot reboot

After rebooting, the password will be reset, but may disappear:

• 📱 Installed applications (except system applications).
• 🔑 Saved Wi-Fi passwords.
• ⚙️ System settings (brightness, sound, wallpaper).

4. Hidden Emergency Call function (operates on MIUI 10-12)

A little-known bug in older versions of MIUI that allows you to bypass the lock screen through the emergency call menu.The method does not require a PC or special knowledge, but does not work on all devices.

How to do this:

1. On the lock screen, tap the Emergency Call.
2. Enter any number (e.g. 112) and press the call button.
3. Immediately after the start of the call, click the Home button (or swipe up if you have gesture navigation).
4. If you do, you will be on the main screen without entering your password.

Why does it work? In some MIUI builds, the emergency call menu is not locked with a password, allowing you to temporarily access the system, but once you reboot, the lock will return.

⚠️ Attention: MIUI 13 and later, this bug is fixed, and the method may not work if the device has a pattern lock instead of a pattern lock. PIN password.

5. Bypassing locking via TWRP (for hardened devices only)

If your Xiaomi has a custom TWRP recavator installed, you can manually delete your password files, which is suitable for enthusiasts who have previously changed firmware or obtained root access.

What needs to be done:

1. Turn off the device.
2. Press the Power button + Volume up to log into TWRP.
3. Go to Advanced → File Manager.
4. Delete the following files: /data/system/locksettings.db /data/system/locksettings.db-wal /data/system/locksettings.db-shm /data/system/gesture.key
5. Reboot the device (Reboot → System)

Important: If the device is encrypted (FBE), TWRP may not see the /data folder.

• 🔧 Enter the encryption password in TWRP (if you remember).
• 🔄 Or formatting data (leads to loss of all data).

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Using TWRP is the most powerful method to unlock, but requires pre-preparedness (installed recoveries, unlocked bootloader).

6.The Official Xiaomi Unlocker (Last Chance)

If none of the methods worked, you can contact Xiaomi’s support team, which provides an official tool for unlocking, but with the mandatory erasure of all data.

How it works:

1. Go to the unlock page and log in to your Mi Account.
2. Download the Mi Unlock Tool utility and connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode.
3. Follow the instructions of the program (confirmation via SMS or email is required).
4. After unlocking, the device will automatically reset to factory settings.

Conditions for official release:

• ✅ The device should be linked to your Mi Account.
• ✅ There should be no unpaid loans or service locks on the smartphone.
• ✅ Waiting period after last unlock (if any) – at least 30 days.

⚠️ Note: If the device was purchased from hand and tied to someone else’s account, official unlocking is possible only if you provide proof of purchase (check, box with a box of cards). IMEI). Otherwise, Xiaomi will refuse the service.

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Xiaomi