Xiaomi mobile devices running on Android can accumulate software errors over time that slow down the interface or cause instability. Often users are faced with the need to return the gadget to its original state before selling or after failing to install applications, a process technically called Hard Reset or full reset, and it is the most radical but effective method of solving software problems.
It is important to understand that this procedure completely removes all user information, including contacts, photos, correspondence and installed programs. MIUI, the branded shell from the Chinese manufacturer, offers several ways to perform this operation, each of which has its own characteristics and use cases. Before you start active actions, you need to carefully weigh all the risks and prepare the device for critical changes in the file system.
In this article, we will take a look at the algorithms for different situations, including when access to the system menu is limited, how to properly prepare your smartphone, what are the nuances of protecting your Google account, and how to avoid locking your device after a reboot. Following the instructions will help you safely clear memory and restore factory performance.
Preparation of the device for complete reset
The first and most critical step is to back up all the important data, and since it is impossible to restore files after formatting internal memory with standard means, ignoring this step will lead to irretrievable loss of information. Use cloud services such as Google Photos or Mi Cloud, or connect your device to your computer via a computer. USB-cable for copying media files manually.
Be sure to check the battery level. The process of cleaning and reinstalling system files can take 10 to 30 minutes, and a sudden power outage at this point can damage the bootloader. The optimal charge level for starting the procedure is considered to be at least 50-60%. If the battery is worn out, it is better to keep the phone connected to the original charger.
You also need to know the login details for your Google and Mi Account. Once reset, Android security will require authorization under the same profile that was used earlier to confirm ownership of the device, a security mechanism known as FRP (Factory Reset Protection), which cannot be circumvented without a password.
☑️ Checklist before reset
Remember to remove the microSD card if it is installed. Although the system usually offers a choice of formatting only internal memory or all storage, physical removal of the media ensures that your personal files on the card will not be affected by accident, especially for older models where memory cards are often used as an extension of internal memory.
Method 1: Resetting through system settings
The easiest and most secure method is available if you remember the unlock password and the phone interface is stable, and it is recommended for regular situations, for example, when preparing a device for sale or transfer to another user, you will need to go to the main settings menu, which is usually indicated by the gear icon.
The next step is to vary depending on the version of the MIUI shell, but the overall logic remains the same. In newer versions of the interface, the path is as follows: Settings → About phone → Reset. In older versions, the menu may be on the Settings path → Advanced Settings → Recovery and Reset. Be careful when navigating so you don’t get confused in the menu items.
A warning will appear on the screen that all data will be deleted, the system will prompt you to select the option “Erase all data” or “Clear all data”. After pressing the appropriate button, the smartphone will request confirmation in the form of entering a pattern lock, PIN-This is the final security barrier before an irreversible process is triggered.
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If you have two-factor authorization enabled, make sure that SIM-The card with the phone number is in another device, as the confirmation code may come in.
Once confirmed, the device will restart and the Xiaomi logo will appear on the screen with a progress indicator, at which point the data and cache partitions are formatted. Don't try to interrupt this process, even if it seems to be hanging - the modern file system works quickly, but sometimes the display can be updated with a delay.
Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode
If the phone doesn't turn on, you're stuck on the logo, or you forget your unlock password, you'll have to use Recovery Mode, which works at the bootloader level and doesn't require access to the operating system. To enter this mode, you'll need to turn off the device completely, and then press the button combination.
The standard combination for most Xiaomi and Redmi models is to simultaneously press the Volume Up and Power buttons. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, after which the power button can be released, while keeping the volume still. In a few seconds, the main Recovery menu will open, which is controlled by the volume buttons, and the power button selects.
⚠️ Attention: The Recovery menu does not have a touchscreen, navigation is done only with physical volume buttons (up/down) and the on button (select.
In the menu that opens, select English (if available), then go to Wipe Data. Then the system will offer two options: Wipe All Data (full reset) and Keep User Data (save data, does not work on all versions). To fully return to factory state, choose the first option. Confirm the action by selecting Confirm.
What to do if you recover in Chinese?
The cleaning process will take some time, after which the phone will automatically restart. The first boot after Hard Reset always lasts longer than usual, because the system needs to recreate the basic file structure and the application cache. Be patient and wait for the welcome screen to appear.
Comparison of data dumping methods
The choice between resetting via menu and recovery depends on the current state of your device. Understanding the differences will help avoid errors and choose the most suitable option for your situation. Below is a table comparing the key characteristics of both methods.
| Characteristics | Through Settings (Menu) | Through Recovery Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Only with a working interface | In any state (even if the OS is not turned on) |
| Screen password requirement | I'll be sure. | No need (but you need a Google account after) |
| Difficulty of implementation | Low (automated) | Medium (requires precise action with buttons) |
| Risk of user error | Minimum | Medium (you can choose the wrong item) |
The settings menu is preferable because the system itself checks for critical errors before starting the procedure.Recovery mode is a “last resort” tool that ignores many software locks, but requires greater caution from the user when navigating.
It’s worth noting that some models with updated security may require you to enter an unlock password even when you log in to Recovery to perform Wipe Data. This is implemented in newer versions of Android (starting with version 11-12) to protect against resetting stolen phones. If the phone requests a password in Recovery, and you don’t remember it, standard methods to unlock the device will not work.
Account protection and FRP circumvention
One of the main problems users face after a reset is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) locking, which is Google's security mechanism that binds the device to the owner's account. Once formatted, the phone will require you to enter a login and password from the account that was synced to the device before the reset.
If you reset your personal phone, just enter your details. Problems arise if the device was bought from hand and the previous owner did not delete his account. In this case, the phone turns into a “brick” for the new user. To avoid this, before selling or reset, be sure to log out of all accounts: Settings → Accounts and Sync → Google → Delete the account.
The same is true for Mi Account, where if you have Find Device enabled on your device, you will need to use the Mi Account password after the reset, and it is important that you delete your account before the reset procedure, and if you have already reset your phone and you don't remember your password, you can only restore access through the official account recovery procedure on the manufacturer's website or Google.
⚠️ Warning: Buying used Xiaomi phones without first checking for linked Mi and Google accounts is extremely risky.The seller can remotely lock the device even after a reset if not logged out correctly.
Possible problems and solutions
Although the procedure is simple, sometimes the process can go wrong, and one of the common problems is hanging on the Mi logo after a Bootloop, which can indicate that system files are damaged or an unsuccessful update, often by logging back into Recovery and selecting the Reboot item or trying to flash it over the computer.
Another common situation is that the phone requires activation but does not see a Wi-Fi network or a phone that is not connected to the phone. SIM-This is a temporary driver glitch. Try to force the device to restart (press the power button on the power button). 10-15 If the problem persists, make sure the date and time are set correctly, as errors in them interfere with the connection to the activation servers.
- 🔄 Phone unresponsive to buttons: Charge the device for an hour even if the indicator isn't on.Deep discharge could block start.
- 💾 Failed to perform reset error: Recovery section may have been damaged.Reflashing via Fastboot required.
- 🔒 Forgot account password: Restoring access is only possible through Google or Xiaomi from another device.
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If after resetting the phone constantly restarts or gives errors, most likely, the firmware is damaged, and it is required to completely reinstall it via the PC.