The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 is a legendary smartphone that is still used by many users due to its reliability and performance. However, even with such a device you can face the problem of a locked screen, especially if the password was set long ago and successfully forgotten. Unlike new Xiaomi models, where unlocking often requires confirmation through Mi Account, the Redmi Note 3 has its nuances - both in terms of capabilities and limitations.
In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of password reset, including official methods through the Mi Account, alternative options using ADB and Fastboot, as well as extreme measures like a complete reset through the receptacles. Particular attention will be paid to the unique feature of the Redmi Note 3 Pro with a Snapdragon processor - the ability to unlock through the EDL mode, which is not available on versions with Mediatek. Each method is accompanied by step-by-by-step instructions, risk warnings and tips for data recovery.
1 Unlocking through Mi Account (official method)
The most secure and recommended method for Xiaomi is to use a tied Mi Account.
- 📱 Smartphone connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network).
- 🔑 The device previously had an authorized Mi Account.
- 🔄 Find Device is activated in the settings.
If all conditions are met, after 5 failed attempts to enter a password, the system will offer the option "Forgot your password?".
- Enter the email or phone number associated with the Mi Account.
- Confirm your identity via SMS or email (the code will come to the attached contact).
- Create a new password or pattern lock.
⚠️ Note: If your device is disabled sync with Mi Cloud or your smartphone is not connected to the network, this method will not work, and Xiaomi may request additional verification (for example, a passport scan) if the account was created a long time ago or from another region.
2. Reset password via Recovery Mode (without loss of data)
Redmi Note 3 (especially on MIUI 7-9) has a loophole that allows you to reset your password without completely resetting your settings. This method does not work on all versions of the software, but it is worth trying.
- 🔌 Charged smartphone (minimum 30%).
- 🖥️ Computer with drivers installed ADB (alternatively).
- 📁 Backup of data (in case of error).
Instructions:
- Turn off your smartphone.
- Press Volume Up + Power before the Mi logo (Recovery Mode) appears.
- Select a language, then go to Advanced → Wipe Dalvik Cache.
- Go back to the main menu and select Reboot → System.
In some cases, after the reboot, the system will request the password again, but it will be possible to enter it empty (just click "OK"). If this method does not work, try the alternative option with a connection to the PC:
☑️ Preparation for discharge through ADB
⚠️ Attention: Firmware is newer MIUI 10 This method may not work due to Xiaomi’s tightening security policy, and Google Play Services settings may sometimes be disrupted after such manipulations, requiring re-authorization in the services.
3. Unlock via Fastboot and ADB (for advanced users)
If the Mi Account is not tied or the smartphone is not connected to the network, you can try to reset the password through Fastboot or ADB. This method requires an unlocked bootloader – if it is not, the method will not work.
Step-by-step instructions for ADB:
- Connect your smartphone to your PC via USB (USB Debugging Mode should be enabled before locking!).
- Open the command line and type in: adb shell su rm /data/system/gesture.key rm /data/system/password.key reboot
- After resetting, the password will be reset.
For Fastboot (if ADB is not available):
- Transfer the smartphone to Fastboot mode (Loudness down + Power).
- In the command line, run: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot
⚠️ Attention: The fastboot erase userdata and fastboot erase cache commands will result in a complete reset and deletion of all data on the device.
What to do if the bootloader is blocked?
4.Severe discharge through Recovery (full cleaning)
The last measure is a factory reset, which will completely delete the password, but also erase all the data on the device: photos, contacts, messages and installed applications. If the smartphone did not have a backup in the Mi Cloud or on the PC, it will be impossible to restore the information.
How to perform the reset:
- Turn off the Redmi Note 3.
- Press Volume Up + Power before the Recovery menu appears.
- Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (use volume buttons for navigation, power buttons for confirmation).
- Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed.
- Reboot the device (Reboot → System)
| Resetting method | Is a Mi Account required? | Is the data preserved? | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through the Mi Account. | Yes. | Yes. | Low. |
| Recovery (wipe dalvik) | No. | Yeah (sometimes) | Medium |
| ADB/Fastboot | No. | Not (if erase userdata) | Tall. |
| Hard Reset | No. | No. | Low. |
⚠️ Note: Some versions of the Redmi Note 3 Pro (with a Snapdragon 650 processor) may require a re-authorization in Mi Account to activate the device after a hard reset. If the account is not tied or forgotten, the smartphone will turn into a brick"!
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Before reset, check if your Google account is linked to your device. MIUI 8+ You may need to enter data from the last profile used (FRP-defence).
5. Unlock via EDL mode (Snapdragon only)
The Redmi Note 3 Pro on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 650 processor supports EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode, which allows you to flash a device even with a locked bootloader.
- 🖥️ PC with Qualcomm drivers installed HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
- 📦 Firmware for your model (for example, kenzo_global_images_...).
- 🔧 Mi Flash Tool or QFil.
Instructions:
- Turn off your smartphone.
- Hold the Loud up. + Loudness down + Meals for food 10–15 seconds (the device will not turn on, but the PC must define it as QHSUSB_BULK).
- Open the Mi Flash Tool, select the firmware and press Flash.
- Wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes).
⚠️ Attention: Incorrect firmware or interruption of the process can permanently disable the device! EDL Smartphones can lose IMEI, That would make it impossible to make calls and access the mobile Internet. IMEI You can use the engineering menu (#4636##) but it requires a separate knowledge.
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EDL mode is the only way to unlock the Redmi Note 3 Pro with a locked bootloader, but it only works for Snapdragon versions. On models with Mediatek (Redmi Note 3 SE), this method doesn't work!
6. Alternative methods and warnings
If none of the above methods helped, you can try the following options:
- 🔧 Service center: Official Xiaomi centers can unlock the device on the passport of the owner (purchase confirmation is required.
- 🛠️ Specialized services: Some workshops offer unlocking through Deep Flash Cable or software exploits (e.g., for bypassing) FRP). Risk – High price and possible loss of warranty.
- 📱 Replacement of motherboard: Extreme case if the device is critical and other methods don't work. Cost: 50-70% of the price of a new smartphone.
Warnings:
- ❌ Do not use dubious programs like the Mi Account Unlock Tool, most of which are viruses or fraudulent software.
- ❌ Do not try to open the case and close contacts on the board (the "test point" method) without experience - this will damage the device.
- ❌ Do not flash your device through unofficial firmware (like LineageOS) unless you are sure it is compatible with the Redmi Note 3.
If you decide to sell or dispose of a locked smartphone, be sure to perform a hard reset – this will protect your data from access by third parties. Remember that even after the reset, some data (for example, photos on a memory card) may remain available!