Modern Xiaomi smartphones, which are based on the shells MIUI or HyperOS, are complex software complexes that over time can accumulate system debris, which leads to slowdown of the interface, errors in applications and unstable behavior of the device. In such situations, the most effective solution is a complete reset, which returns the gadget to the state “out of the box”.
Hard Reset or program reset through the settings menu deletes all user data, including contacts, photos and installed programs. That is why before starting any manipulations, you need to clearly understand the consequences and prepare backups of important information.
In this guide, we will take a detailed look at all the available ways to return your smartphone to factory status, consider the nuances of working with Recovery mode and answer frequently asked questions about blocking accounts. Properly performing each step ensures that your device is successfully restored to work without the need to contact a service center.
Preparing the device for a complete data reset
Before you start cleaning, it is critical to perform a set of preparatory steps that will protect your data and the smartphone itself, the first step is to back up all important files, since after reset, it will be impossible to restore them using standard methods. You can use Google Drive cloud storage, built-in Mi Cloud cloud, or transfer files to your computer via a computer. USB-cable.
The second important step is to check the battery charge level: the process of formatting the system partition and reinstalling operating system components requires stable power supply. If the charge falls below the critical mark during data recording, this can lead to damage to the loader or “filling” the device, which will require complex repairs.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure the battery is at least 60-70% Interrupting the reset process due to battery discharge can make the smartphone inoperable.
Also, remember to unplug accounts if you plan to transfer the device to a new owner. Modern versions of Android and MIUI have protection against theft, so logging into a Google or Mi Account will be mandatory immediately after you turn it on, unless you log out first, which can be a nasty surprise for the new user or for yourself if you forget your passwords.
☑️ Checklist before reset
Method 1: Reset via the system settings menu
The safest and easiest method available to every user is to use the standard operating system interface, which is suitable for cases where the smartphone is turned on, the screen responds to touch, and you have access to the main menu. The algorithm for actions may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI, but the overall logic remains the same.
To start, open the Settings app and scroll through the list to About Phone or Advanced Settings. In newer versions of HyperOS, the section you want is often right on the top menu called Protection and Reset. You need to find an option that contains the words Reset or Recover.
Once you select "Erase all data," the system will request proof of your identity. PIN-This security measure is implemented by developers to prevent remote theft of data or malicious resetting of the device by unauthorized persons.
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Before you click the final Reset button, make sure that all important photos and documents are copied to an external medium or to the cloud.
Once confirmed, the system will warn you that all data will be deleted. Once agreed to the terms, the smartphone will restart and begin the cleanup process. This can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of internal memory and the number of files. Do not touch the device at this time.
Method 2: Reset via Recovery (Hard Reset)
If the smartphone is not turned on, stuck on the logo or the screen does not respond to touch, the only way out is to use Recovery mode. This low-level interface allows you to control the system bypassing the main menu, entering this mode by a combination of physical buttons on the device that is turned off.
To get into the recovery menu, turn off your smartphone completely. Then simultaneously press the volume button and the power button. Hold them until the Mi or Xiaomi logo appears, after which the power button can be released, while continuing to keep the volume. In a few seconds, the main Recovery menu opens.
Navigation in this mode is done with volume buttons (up and down), and the choice of point is made by a short press of the power button. In some models with a touch screen in Recovery mode, you can control your finger. You need to select the Wipe Data item, and then confirm the action by choosing Wipe All Data.
⚠️ Warning: In Recovery mode, the touch screen may not work. In advance, check which button is responsible for confirming the choice on your model so you don't get confused.
The system can request confirmation of operation by offering to select Confirm. Once the cleanup is complete, select Reboot to restart to normal mode. The first run after such a reset usually lasts longer than usual, since the system takes time to index files and adjust the base parameters.
What to do if the Recovery menu is in Chinese?
Comparative table of discharge methods
The choice of method depends on the current state of your device and the goals you are pursuing. Software resetting through settings is more secure for beginners, since the system itself controls the process of closing applications. Hardware reset via Recovery is a more powerful tool that can resuscitate the device even in case of serious software failures.
Below is a table to help you determine the best way to deal with your situation: Pay attention to the access requirements and the level of risk to the data.
| Parameter | Through Settings. | Through Recovery. | Through the Mi Cloud |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access to the menu | Required. | Not required | Internet is required |
| Risk of error | Minimum | Medium. | Absent. |
| Deletion of accounts | Automatically. | Requires manual exit | Remotely |
| Difficulty | Low. | Medium | Low. |
Account Problem: Mi Account and Google FRP
One of the most common problems after a reset is locking the device with Google FRP (Factory Reset Protection) and Mi Account security mechanisms, which are designed to protect against theft: if the phone was linked to an account, after a reset, it will require you to enter a login and password from the last used account.
If you reset your phone through Recovery without first logging out of your accounts in the settings, the system will see this as an attempt at unauthorized access, and as a result, you will see an activation screen where you need to enter data, without this data, you will not be able to use your smartphone, and even flashing it does not always help to remove this lock.
To avoid such situations, always log out of your Google and Mi Account before resetting, go to settings, find the Accounts and Sync section, select the profile you want, and click Delete Account or Sign Out, only after that you can safely reset your data.
⚠️ Warning: If you bought a used phone and it requests the previous owner's account, you can't get your settings back to factory settings.
In case you forget your Mi Account password, restore it via the official i.mi.com website from any other device using a linked phone number or backup email.This is the only legal way to regain access to your device.
What to do after resetting settings
After successfully completing the procedure and first setting up language, time and Wi-Fi, you will see a clean desktop. Now it's time to restore your data from the backup. When you first log in to your Google account, the system will prompt you to restore applications and settings from the last saved point.
Don’t rush to install all apps at once. It’s recommended to first upgrade the operating system to the latest version, as after a reset, the phone may have an old version of the software with security vulnerabilities. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and check for updates.
You also need to reconfigure biometric security, and the fingerprints and facial data that you saved were deleted along with the rest of your data, and then re-scan your personal data and banking applications.
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After reset, the system works faster, but takes time to “warm up” and optimize background processes in the first hours of use.