Full reset Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro – all the ways and nuances

Resetting the Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro to factory settings is a radical but sometimes necessary solution. The device can start to brake after long use, “clog” with unnecessary files or simply require a “clean start” before selling. However, an incorrect reset can turn a smartphone into a “brick”, especially if it is a matter of manipulation through Fastboot or informal firmware.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways of resetting for Redmi 8 Pro (codename begonia): from the standard method through settings to forced reset via Recovery and even Mi Flash Tool to “resuscitate” the device. Separately, we will focus on the unique feature of this model – locking the bootloader after reset via Fastboot, if it was previously unlocked, and you will learn how to save important data before the procedure and what to do if the smartphone does not turn on after the reset.

When do I need a full reset of Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro?

Resetting to factory settings is not a panacea, but in some cases it does help:

• 🐢 Smartphone strongly slows down, applications are constantly “flying out”, and cleaning the cache does not help.
• 🔒 You sell or transfer your device to another person and want to delete all personal data.
• 📱 After updating MIUI Critical bugs (e.g., camera or mobile network not working).
• 🔄 The device is infected with a virus that is not removed by antiviruses.
• 🔧 Need a “clean” device for testing firmware or custom ROM.

However, there are situations where resetting will not help or even harm:

• ⚡ Battery problems (fast discharge, sudden shutdowns) – repairs are needed, not resetting.
• 📡 No mobile network due to hardware failure (e.g. damaged communication module).
• 💥 The smartphone does not turn on because of the “flying” firmware – in this case, you need to reflash through Fastboot.

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi 8 Pro was purchased hand-held and linked to your previous Mi Account, a reset without detachment will result in a device lock (activation lock.

Preparing for resetting: how to save important data

A complete reset removes all information from internal memory, including:

• 📸 Photos and videos (including from folders) DCIM and Pictures).
• 📱 Contacts, SMS, Call log (unless synced with Google or Mi Cloud).
• 🎵 Music, downloads, documents.
• 🎮 Game saving (unless linked to a Google Play or Mi Account).
• ⚙️ Settings Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, wallpaper, themes MIUI.

Methods of backup:

Important: Don't rely on cloud services alone. Mi Cloud, for example, provides only 5GB for free, and Google Photos, from June 1, 2021, limits free storage. USB-cable OTG-accumulator.

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Before reset, check if your Redmi 8 Pro is linked to your Mi Account. If so, remember your username and password, otherwise, after the reset, the device will require authorization from the previous owner.

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

This is the standard method that is suitable if the smartphone is turned on and you remember the pattern lock./PIN-The instructions are relevant to MIUI 12/13/14:

1. Open Settings (the gear icon on the main screen).
2. Go to About Phone → Backup and Reset.
3. Select Settings Reset.
4. Delete all data (a password may be required).
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

The device will restart and start the reset process, which will take 3-10 minutes, and once completed, you will see the screen of the initial setup, as after purchase.

⚠️ Note: If your Redmi 8 Pro has bootloader unlocked, it will automatically lock again after resetting through settings, which means that custom firmware will require re-unlocking to install.

Upload important files to your PC or cloud|Check the battery level (minimum 50%)|Remember the data from the Mi Account (if linked)|Disable your Google account (if you plan to sell your device)-->

Method 2: Reset via Recovery Mode (if the smartphone is not turned on)

If the Redmi 8 Pro doesn't boot into the system (hangs on the logo, reboots cyclically, or requires a password you've forgotten), resetting via Recovery will help.This method is also useful if the touchscreen doesn't work, but the power and volume buttons are working.

Instructions:

1. Turn off your smartphone (clip Power + Volume up for 10-15 seconds if it freezes).
2. Press both Power and Loudness up until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons when the Recovery menu appears (black screen with yellow inscriptions in English/Chinese).
4. Use volume buttons for navigation and power to select the item.
5. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data → Confirm.
6. Once you have finished, select Reboot → Reboot to System.

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

• 📛 The third item on top is Wipe Data (data cleanup).
• 🔄 The first item is Reboot (reboot).

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for advanced users)

This method is used if:

• 🔧 You need to reset the device with the unlocked loader.
• 📱 Recovery is damaged or not opened.
• 🔄 Requires a “clean” firmware installation after resetting.

The work will require:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed Xiaomi drivers (you can download on the official website).
• 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (preferably original).
• 🛠️ Mi Flash Tool or Fastboot Teams.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone.
2. Press Power + Volume down until the screen with Fastboot (Android robot with open stomach) appears.
3. Connect the device to the PC.
4. Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with ADB/Fastboot.
5. Enter the command to check the connection: fastboot devices Must appear serial number of the device.
6. Run reset: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

⚠️ Attention: If your Redmi is 8 The Pro previously had an unlocked bootloader, after being reset via Fastboot it will automatically lock.To unlock again, you will need to re-proceed through the Mi Unlock Tool (with waiting). 7-30 days).

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Reset via Fastboot only deletes user data, not system files. If you want a full reinstallation of MIUI, after the reset, run the firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.

What if Redmi 8 Pro does not turn on after reset?

In rare cases, after reset, the device may:

• 🔄 Hang on the Mi or Redmi logo.
• 📵 Do not respond to buttons.
• 🔋 Discharge quickly (if the discharge is interrupted due to low charge).

Decisions:

If the smartphone does not show signs of life (does not vibrate, does not warm, does not light up the charging indicator), the problem may be in the hardware:

• 🔋 Failed battery (replacement needed).
• 🔌 Damaged charging connector or power controller.
• 💥 Short circuit on the motherboard (diagnosis is required in the service center).

How to avoid problems after resetting?

To make the reset go smoothly, follow these tips:

• 🔋 Charge the device to at least 50% (optimally 80%). Interrupted reset due to battery discharge can lead to "bricking».
• 📡 Use a stable Wi-Fi connection (if you reset through settings). After reset, the device can be updated for a long time.
• 🔒 If you are selling a smartphone, be sure to untie all accounts (Google, Mi, Samsung, etc.) in Settings. → Accounts.
• 📱 After reset, do not restore data from the backup if you suspect a virus - it may return.
• 🔧 If you plan to install custom firmware, unlock the bootloader before reset, otherwise you will have to wait. 7-30 days.

What NOT to do after resetting:

• ❌ Don’t install the old versions. MIUI — This may cause conflicts with the new software.
• ❌ Don’t miss setting up your Google account during the initial setup phase – this may block access to the Play Market.
• ❌ Do not use unofficial utilities for resetting (for example, SP Redmi 8 Pro runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 and such tools will kill it».

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi Redmi 8 Pro