Many users face a situation where a complete reset of the device is an inevitable step to solve software errors or sell a gadget. MIUI operating system or its new version HyperOS sometimes accumulate registry errors that cannot be eliminated by standard cache cleaning, in which case formatting internal memory is the only effective solution to return the smartphone to a factory state.
Cleaning procedures may be required before transferring the device to another owner so that sensitive information does not fall into the wrong hands. Whatever the reason, it is important to understand that once the process is complete, it will be impossible to restore deleted files without prior backup, so this action should be approached with awareness and preparation, carefully checking for backups.
In this guide, we will discuss in detail all available methods for resetting settings on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones. You will learn how to safely conduct the procedure through the settings menu, how to enter Recovery mode when the interface is broken, and what precautions you need to take in advance.
Preparing the device for full formatting
Before any manipulation of system files begins, a number of preparatory steps must be performed. The most critical step is to back up all important data, since it is impossible to restore information after formatting by internal means of the system. It is recommended to use Mi Cloud or Google Drive cloud storage to save photos, contacts and notes.
You should also make sure that the battery charge is at least 50-60%. Sudden power outages during the recording of system partitions can cause permanent damage to the bootloader. If the smartphone supports memory expansion, be sure to remove the device. SD-card so that it is not accidentally formatted with internal memory.
⚠️ Note: Deleting your Google and Mi Account before resetting is a must.If you don’t, after the reboot, the device will request a password from the previous owner (protection). FRP), Unlocking your phone without this data is very difficult.
Remember to turn off device search mode and unlock screen if installed through third-party locker apps. Sometimes such programs can prevent the reset procedure from being completed correctly, causing a cyclical reboot. Check the list of installed applications and remove those that have device administrator rights.
☑️ Preparation for discharge
Reset via the MIUI and HyperOS settings menu
The safest and easiest way to get your phone back to its original state is to use the built-in functionality of the operating system, which is suitable for most situations where the device is turned on and the touch screen responds to commands. First, go to the main menu and find the Settings item, which is usually indicated by the gear ikon.
The path may vary slightly depending on the shell version. In current versions of HyperOS and new MIUI, you need to select the About Phone section, then click Reset button. In older versions of the interface, this item may be in the Advanced Settings menu or immediately in the main list called Recover and Reset.
The system will offer several cleaning options. Select the Erase Everything option to delete not only the settings, but all user files, including photos, music and installed apps. Once the selection is confirmed, the system can request a pattern lock or PIN for security.
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If you plan to sell your phone, select the “Clear All Data” option and make sure the “Format Internal Memory” tick is active so that files cannot be recovered by third-party utilities.
The deletion process will start, which can take anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour depending on the amount of memory filled, at which time the Xiaomi logo or animation of the Android robot can be displayed on the screen.
Using Recovery Mode for Resetting
If the operating system is not booting, locked or operating with critical errors, Recovery Mode is used. This is a special diagnostic interface recorded in a separate memory partition that allows you to control the system at a low level.
Once turned off, press the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then the power button can be released while holding the volume key. When a menu with a few points appears on a black or blue background, release all the buttons.
Navigation in the Recovery menu is done using volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by a short press of the power button. You need to find the Wipe Data item and select it. In the next menu you will need to confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.
⚠️ Attention: In Recovery mode, the touch screen most often doesn't work. All actions are performed only with mechanical volume and power buttons, so press them clearly and without delay.
What to do if the Recovery menu is in Chinese?
Once confirmed, the system will warn you that all data will be deleted. Once confirmed, the formatting process will begin. Upon completion, the message Success or Data wiped successfully will appear. Select Reboot and then Reboot to System to restart in normal mode.
Delete data through the Find Device service
In case of loss of a smartphone or theft, the user can remotely clear the data if the device has been enabled Internet and search service. This is done using the official Mi Cloud web service. Go to i.mi.com from any other device and log in to your account.
In the service interface, select Find Device, which will show the location of your gadget if it is online. In the list of available actions, select the option to Clear Data, which command will force you to reset the settings on the target device.
It's important to understand that to execute this command, the phone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network or mobile Internet, and if the device is turned off or in an uncoated area, the command will be executed automatically as soon as it appears on the network, and this is an effective way to protect personal data from unauthorized persons.
Using a remote reset also helps to bypass the problem of a forgotten pattern lock if you remember the password from the Mi Account. However, after cleaning the device will require login credentials to activate, which is a measure of protection against theft. Without knowing the login and password, you will not be able to use the phone.
Comparison of data cleanup methods
Different types of resets have their own characteristics, advantages and limitations, and the choice of the specific method depends on the current state of the device and the user’s goals. Below is a table that will help you navigate the most appropriate option for your situation.
| Resetting method | Access to the OS is required | Data security | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through Settings. | Required. | Complete removal | Low. |
| Recovery Mode | Not required | Complete removal | Medium |
| Mi Cloud (remotely) | Not required (we need the internet) | Complete removal | Low. |
| Engineering menu | Required (special code) | Complete removal | Tall. |
It is worth noting that the method through the engineering menu (enter code ##7780##) in modern versions of MIUI often redirects the user to the standard reset menu or does not work at all without special rights.
The most versatile and reliable way is to use the Recovery menu, as it is available even when Android system files are damaged. However, for the average user whose phone is functioning normally, the standard way through the settings is the safest and most understandable.
Possible problems after discharge and their solution
After the formatting procedure, the user may encounter a number of typical situations: often the phone loads longer than usual, which is normal, since the system takes time to optimize applications and create new system files. The first download can take up to 10-15 minutes.
One common problem is requiring you to enter a password from a Google or Mi Account that was used on your device before, which triggers FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection. If you forget your password, it will take time to restore access and require you to contact support or use an account that your phone has synced to in the past 72 hours.
⚠️ Warning: If the phone is stuck on the logo or is constantly restarted (bootloop), the formatting process may have been interrupted or damaged, in which case you will need to flash the device through the computer using the Mi Flash Tool utility.
There may also be increased battery consumption in the first hours of operation, due to background indexing and synchronization processes, so let the device run quietly for about an hour, plugging it into charging so that the system stabilizes.
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A complete reset is not a panacea for hardware malfunctions. If phone problems (switch off, heat up) persist after formatting, it is likely that the cause lies in the physical wear and tear of the battery or motherboard.