How to reset Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T to factory settings: the full guide

Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T is a popular smartphone with powerful hardware and flexible MIUI firmware, but even it sometimes requires a complete reset. Hanging after the update, viruses, preparation for sale or a forgotten pattern lock are the reasons for a hard reset dozens. However, an improper reset can turn the phone into a “brick”, especially if you do not include a binding to a Mi Account or a locked bootloader.

In this article, you will find three proven reset methods (via settings, Recovery Mode and Fastboot), as well as unique solutions for cases when the Redmi Note 8T does not turn on or asks for a password after a reset. We will discuss how to bypass the lock Xiaomi account (if you forgot the data), what data can be restored after the reset, and why sometimes a reset via the Mi Flash Tool is the only way out. All instructions are adapted to the current version of MIUI 14 (Android 12) and more recent.

1.Reset preparation: What to do before a hard reset

Factory reset erases all user information: contacts, photos, messages, installed apps and even some system settings. Here's what you need to do before you click Reset:

• 📱 Create a backup through Settings → The phone. → Backup or manually copy files to your PC. Cloud services (Google Drive, Mi Cloud) will only store some of the data.
• 🔋 Charge the phone to at least 50%. Interrupting reset due to battery discharge can damage the firmware.
• 🔑 Make sure to remember the data from Mi Account. After resetting, the phone will require login / password if the account binding was previously activated.
• 📡 Disable your Google account (if it has been added) via Settings → Accounts, otherwise after the reset may work FRP-locking (dump protection).

If you drop your phone before selling, additionally:

• 📲 Log out of all accounts (Mi Account, Google, social media).
• 💳 Remove Bank Cards from Google Pay and Mi Pay.

⚠️ Note: If you forgot the Mi Account password, but the phone is still turning on, immediately link another email or number in the account settings. After resetting, it will be extremely difficult to restore access - you will need to contact Xiaomi with proof of ownership of the device.

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

This method works if the phone turns on and you remember the pattern lock./PIN-It doesn't require a computer and is as safe as possible for firmware.

Instructions:

1. Open the settings (cog icon on the desktop).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Click Delete all data and confirm the action by entering a password (if required).
5. Wait for the reboot (it will take 3-7 minutes).

After the reboot, the phone will suggest you set it up as new. If you previously had a Mi Account attached, you will need to enter your username and password.

⚠️ Note: Some of the Redmi Note firmware 8T (especially custom) item "Resetting settings" may be in Settings → Additionally. → Recovery and reset. If you can't find a section, search by settings (the magnifier icon at the top of the screen).

3. Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the phone is not turned on)

If the Redmi Note 8T is stuck on the logo, reboots cyclically or doesn't respond to touch, resetting through Recovery Mode will help.

• 🔒 User-generated TWRP Recovery (requires separate instructions).
• 🚫 Phone locked via Mi Cloud (you will need to enter account data after resetting).
• 🔧 Firmware is damaged (in this case, you need Fastboot or Mi Flash Tool).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10-15 seconds if it freezes).
2. Press the Power Button + Volume up at the same time and hold for 5-10 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will see the Recovery Mode menu (in English or Chinese).
4. Use volume buttons for navigation and power button to select the item.
5. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data → Confirm.
6. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

If the menu is in Chinese, focus on the location of the items:

Method 3: Reset via Fastboot (for power users)

This method requires a computer and is suitable for cases where:

• 🔄 The phone only loads in Fastboot Mode (black screen with a rabbit and the words Fastboot).
• 🔧 You need to reflash the device after a failed update.
• 🔒 Mi Account password is forgotten and standard reset does not help.

You'll need:

• 💻 Windows computer 7/10/11.
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (original or quality).
• 📥 Mi Flash Tool and firmware for Redmi Note 8T (Download from the official Xiaomi website).
• 🛠️ Qualcomm drivers (install automatically when you connect your phone to Fastboot).

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone. Press Volume down + Power for 5-10 seconds until the Fastboot screen appears.
2. Connect the phone to the computer.
3. Unpack the archive with firmware (.tgz format) in a folder without Cyrillic characters.
4. Open the Mi Flash Tool, press Select and point the path to the firmware folder.
5. At the bottom of the program, select Clean All mode (full reset) or Save User Data (save user data – not always working).
6. Press Refresh – your Redmi Note 8T should appear in the list of devices.
7. Press Flash and wait for completion (10-15 minutes).

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If the Mi Flash Tool gives an error critical partition flashing is not allowed, then you have blocked the bootloader, you can unlock it only through official permission from Xiaomi (the procedure takes up to 72 hours).

⚠️ Note: Fastboot reset removes all firmware, including system partitions. If you interrupt the process (e.g., disconnect the cable), the phone can turn into a brick and require repair at the service center!

5.How to bypass the Mi Account lock after a reset

If after resetting the Redmi Note 8T requires you to enter data from the Mi Account, but you forgot them, there are three options:

1. Restoring access to the account: 📧 Go to account.xiaomi.com and click “Forgot your password?». 📱 Use a linked email or phone number to recover. 🔑 If your account is linked to a number, please request SMS coded.
2. Delete your account via Mi Unlock Tool (not working on all firmware): 💻 Download the official tool from Xiaomi. 🔌 Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (as in method 3). 🔓 Follow the instructions of the program (it takes 72-168 hours to unlock).

Xiaomi

• 📄 Prepare proof of purchase (check, box with) IMEI).
• 📞 Write to official support with a description of the problem.
• ⏳ Waiting for a response can take up to 5 working days.

Important: Since 2021, Xiaomi has tightened security policies, and unofficial ways to bypass locks (via EDL Mode or paid services) often lead to a phone breakdown or account ban. Use them at your own risk!

6. Frequent errors and their solutions

Even if the instructions are followed correctly, the reset may not go according to plan.

If none of the methods helped, perhaps the problem in the hardware (damaged memory, power controller, etc.).In this case, contact the service center. the Average cost of diagnosis Redmi Note 8T — 500-1000 rubles.

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If the phone asks for a password that you didn’t set after reset, it was likely activated by the previous owner before, in which case you can only restore access through Xiaomi support with proof of purchase.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions

Fastboot

If Mi Account is forgotten, contact Xiaomi with proof of purchase.