How to completely reset all settings on Xiaomi: 4 working ways

Introduction: when you need a complete reset and how it is dangerous

Resetting on Xiaomi smartphones is a radical solution that is used in critical situations, from slowing down to preparing the device for sale. The procedure deletes all user data, including apps, photos, accounts and even some system settings. However, many users do not know that Xiaomi has 4 official ways of resetting – and each fits different scenarios.

The main problem: after a reset, the device may require data input from the previous Mi Account if Device Protection was enabled. This blocks access to the phone if you do not remember the username / password. In this article, we will discuss not only how to perform the reset correctly, but also how to circumvent possible locks (legally!) and restore important data after the procedure.

⚠️ Critical warning: If your Xiaomi was bought hand-held and tied to someone else's Mi Account, a reset via the standard menu will not unlock the device.In this case, an official appeal in support of Xiaomi with proof of purchase will be required.

Method 1: Reset via the settings menu (the safest)

This method is suitable for most users, as it does not require additional tools and preserves the integrity of system files.

• 📱 The phone is stable, but you want to sell it or eliminate software lags;
• 🔄 You must delete all data before transferring the device to another person;
• 🔒 You remember the password from your Mi Account (if it was linked to you).

Step-by-step:

1. Open the settings → About the phone;
2. Select Reset (on some models, path: Settings → Additional → Reset and Reset)
3. Tap to erase all data;
4. Enter a pattern lock or PIN-code (if installed);
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

It takes 5-15 minutes, and when you reboot, the phone will suggest you set it up as new, and it's important that if you turned on Find Device before the reset, you need to enter the data from the Mi Account that was tied to it.

Save important files to your PC or cloud |Record username/password from Mi Account | Make sure your phone is at least 50% charged |Disable Google Account (if you plan to sell)

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Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

If Xiaomi’s smartphone is stuck on the logo, does not respond to touches, or is blocked by a password you forgot, a Recovery Mode reset will help.This method works even on faulty devices, but has nuances:

• ⚙️ Deletes all data without recovery;
• 🔧 Does not require unlocking the loader;
• 📵 It may not work if a custom firmware has been installed before.

Instructions for entering Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone (clip Power + Volume up for 10 seconds if it freezes);
2. Press the Power + Volume combination up and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. In the Recovery menu, select the language (usually English or Chinese).
4. Go to Wipe Data → Wipe All Data;
5. Confirm the action with a swipe or a choice of Confirm.

⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T or Redmi Note 11) after reset via Recovery, an error may appear "This device is locked", which means that the bootloader is locked, and further work will require unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool.

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for advanced users)

This method is used if:

• 🔧 You need to reset the settings on the locked phone without losing unlocking the bootloader;
• 📦 You need to stitch stock firmware over the custom;
• 🖥️ You have access to your PC and installed Xiaomi drivers.

To reset via Fastboot, do:

fastboot oem edl


fastboot erase userdata




fastboot erase cache




fastboot reboot

⚠️ Attention: the command fastboot oem edl puts the device in mode EDL, Which can lead to total loss IMEI on some models (e.g. Redmi) 9A). Use it only if you are confident in the action or prepare for recovery. IMEI via service center.

Once you have completed the commands, the phone will restart and start setting up from scratch. If you want a full flashing, download the official firmware for your model from Miui Download and use the command:

fastboot flash all [name file firmware.zip]

Through the settings menu | Through Recovery Mode | Through Fastboot/EDL | Never reset |Another way

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Method 4: Remote reset via Mi Cloud (if phone is lost)

If your Xiaomi is stolen or lost, but your Mi Account is linked to it, you can reset remotely via the Mi Cloud web interface, which will result in:

• 📍 Locking the device through Find Device;
• 🔄 Delete all data (if the phone is connected to the Internet);
• 🚫 Inability to use your phone without entering your login / password.

Instructions:

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. Select your device in the list;
3. Click Find the device → Delete the data;
4. Confirm the action via SMS or email.

A unique nuance for Xiaomi: After a remote reset, the phone can remain locked even after entering the correct password from Mi Account, if the device protection function was previously activated, in which case you will have to wait 72 hours before unlocking or contact the proof of ownership for support.

What to do after reset: data recovery and setup

After you have been discharged, you will have:

1. Set your phone as new (select language, connect to Wi-Fi)
2. Sign in to Mi Account (if it was tied before the reset);
3. Restore data from a backup (if it was created).

To recover data:

• 📁 Use Mi Mover (application from Xiaomi to transfer data from another device);
• ☁️ Restore backup from Mi Cloud (if it was created in Settings) → The phone. → Backup);
• 💻 Connect your phone to your PC and use programs like Dr.Fone or Tenorshare UltData to scan your internal memory (not all models after a reset!).

⚠️ Warning: If you sell a phone, don't restore your accounts to it, which can result in the device being blocked for a new owner:

1. Perform the reset;
2. Pass the phone to the buyer;
3. Remove the device from your Mi Account via the web interface account.xiaomi.com.

💡

Before selling your phone, disable the “Find Device” feature in the Mi Account settings, which will save the buyer from having to enter your data after the reset.

Table: Comparison of Reset Methods for Xiaomi

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting settings on Xiaomi

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If you reset your phone before selling, be sure to remove it from your Mi Account via the web interface.Otherwise, the new owner may face locking the device 72 hours after the reset.