How to make a hard reset on Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro: step-by-step instructions

Xiaomi smartphone owners often face situations where the device starts to work unstable, freeze or require complete deletion of personal data before selling. For the 2019 Redmi 8 Pro, the Hard Reset procedure remains the most effective way to return the gadget to a factory state.

The need to reset can be for a variety of reasons, from a trivial lack of space to software failures after a failed firmware update. It is important to understand that Hard Reset is a radical measure and should only be resorted to when softer optimization methods do not help. In this article, we will discuss in detail all the available ways to perform this operation on your device.

Before you take action, make sure you understand the consequences. All data will be lost irretrievably unless you back it up in advance. Recovering information after formatting a data section is extremely difficult and at home is almost impossible without special skills.

⚠️ Warning: Before starting the procedure, make sure that the battery charge is at least 50-60%. Interrupting the reset process due to battery discharge can damage system files and inability to turn on the smartphone.

Preparation of the device for complete reset

The first thing you need to do is back up all your important data, you can use Google Drive, you can use the built-in Mi Cloud app, or you can transfer files to your computer through a computer. USB-Pay special attention to folders with photos, documents and contact lists.

The second critical step is to untie accounts, so if you have a Google account or Mi Account activated on your device, you have to remove them from your settings before you reset, otherwise, after you reboot, the phone will require you to enter the password from the account it was previously associated with, which is a theft protection mechanism, and it will be difficult to get around it without a password.

It is also recommended to remove SIM-microSD card and memory card, if installed. MIUI People usually ask if you need to format an external card, physical extraction guarantees the safety of your data on it.

  • πŸ“± Backup your contacts, photos and important documents to an external medium or to the cloud.
  • πŸ” Remove Google and Mi accounts from the smartphone settings menu to avoid blocking.
  • πŸ”‹ Charge the battery to at least 60% or connect the phone to a power source.
  • πŸ’Ύ Remove the memory card and SIM-map before the start of the resetting procedure.

β˜‘οΈ Ready to dump

Done: 0 / 4

Method 1: Reset via system settings (Soft Reset)

The easiest and safest way to run a hard reset on the Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro is to use a built-in settings menu, which is suitable for cases where the phone is turned on, the screen responds to touch, and you have access to the desktop. The action algorithm is standardized for most versions of the MIUI shell.

To start, go to the main menu and select Settings. Then scroll down to the bottom and find the About Phone section. In the menu that opens, you will need the Reset option (or Advanced Settings β†’ Restore and Reset depending on the version of the software).

The system will warn you that all files will be deleted. If you are confident in your decision, click the appropriate confirmation button, PIN-The screen unlock code or password to verify the identity of the owner will then begin the cleanup process, which will take 5 to 15 minutes.

What happens when you drop through the menu?
During the process, the system sequentially deletes user partitions, clears the app cache, and returns the system files to their original state. The screen can go out and light up several times β€” that's OK. Don't interrupt the process, even if the phone seems to be stuck on the logo.

Method 2: Hard Recovery Mode (buttons)

If the smartphone doesn't load, freezes on the logo, or the touch screen doesn't respond, the only way out is to use Recovery Mode, a special low-level mode built into the firmware, and it's logged in with a combination of physical buttons when the device is off.

Turn off the Redmi 8 Pro completely. Then press the Volume Up button and the Power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo or Recovery menu appears on the screen. In this mode, the touch screen does not work, navigation is carried out by volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button.

Select a language (usually English or Chinese/English) from the menu, then go to Wipe Data. Then select Wipe All Data and confirm the action by selecting Confirm. The system will again warn you about deleting the data. Once you have cleaned up, select Back to Main Menu, and then Reboot β†’ Reboot to System.

πŸ“Š What type of reset you used most often?
Through the settings menu
Through Recovery (buttons)
Through the computer (ADB)
I didn't do the reset.

Table of comparison of discharge methods

The choice of method depends on the current state of your gadget. Below is a comparison table that will help determine the optimal way to solve the problem for your situation.

ParameterThrough Settings.Through Recovery.Through Mi Flash (PC)
AvailabilityDesktop screen requiredIt works with non-working software.Requires PC and cable
DifficultyLow.MediumTall.
Speed.5-10 minutes5-10 minutes15-30 minute
Risk of errorMinimumLow.Medium (need firmware)

Resolving problems after resetting

Once the factory settings are restored, the phone will turn on as new, but users may face a number of typical situations, such as a device that can hang on the Mi or Android logo for a long time (up to 10-15 minutes), which is normal: the system optimizes applications and creates new system files.

If the phone requires activation and claims to be blocked by the previous owner, it means that you did not log out of your Google or Mi Account before resetting, you will have to remember your password or use your computer to restore access through the official websites of manufacturers, in some cases you need to contact the service center with a check for purchase.

It's also worth noting that after the first turn on, battery consumption can be increased during the first day, the system algorithms are re-learned to your usage habits, and the background processes index files, and let the device work as usual without loading it with heavy games immediately after the reset.

⚠️ Note: If the phone is reset cyclically and cannot boot to the desktop, the system partition may be damaged, in which case only flashing through the computer using the Mi Flash Tool utility will help.

πŸ’‘

After the first turn on, don’t install all the apps at once. Wait about an hour for the system to stabilize the background processes, which will help avoid excessive heating and lag.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will Android or MIUI be removed after the hard reset?
No, the hard reset doesn't roll back the operating system. If you had Android 9 installed with a MIUI 11 shell, you'll have the same version after the reset. You'll need a full firmware reflash to roll back the version.
Can I recover deleted photos after resetting?
It is almost impossible to recover data after a full Wipe Data, since modern smartphones use encryption, the chances are only if the data was in the cloud (Google Photos, Mi Cloud) or on a memory card that was not formatted.
How long does the cleaning process take?
The formatting process usually takes between 3 and 7 minutes, but it can take up to 15-20 minutes to boot and optimize the system for the first time.
Should I take it out? SIM-pre-reset?
It's desirable, but it's not necessary. SIM-The card ensures that you do not accidentally delete the contacts stored on it, and not in the memory of your phone or Google account.
What if my phone asks for a password from a Mi Account I forgot?
You need to re-access your i.mi.com account from your computer, and without that, you can't legally unlock your device, because it's anti-theft.

πŸ’‘

Hard Reset is a powerful smartphone resuscitation tool that solves 90% of software problems, but requires you to create a backup before starting the procedure.