How to reset Xiaomi Mi 8 to factory settings: 3 working ways

Why you need to reset Xiaomi Mi 8 and when to do it

Resetting to factory settings on the Xiaomi Mi 8 is a radical but effective way to bring the smartphone back to work, removing all user data, apps and settings, returning the device to the “out of the box” state.

First, if the smartphone has started to slow down, spontaneously reboot or "hang" on the MIUI logo. These are typical symptoms of software failures that are not always solved by flashing. Second, reset is mandatory before selling or transferring the phone to another user - to protect personal data. Third, the procedure helps to eliminate errors after a failed system update or manual intervention in /system files.

It is important to understand that Xiaomi Mi 8 (codename dipper) runs on the basis of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor, and its firmware has features. For example, after a reset via Recovery, you may need to re-activate the device through Mi Account if you previously had an account attached. Also, some versions of MIUI (especially Chinese) after a reset request for a password from the previous account is the protection of Mi Cloud Lock.

Before you start, check:

• 🔋 Battery charge – at least 50% (when reset via Recovery, the phone should not turn off).
• 📱 Backup data – photos, contacts and messages will be deleted without recovery.
• 🔑 Access to Mi Account – if the phone is linked to the account, after reset, authorization will be required.

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

This method is suitable if the smartphone is turned on, touch-responsive and you have access to the main menu. The main advantage is the simplicity and minimal risk of "bricking" the device. The instructions are relevant for all versions of MIUI, including MIUI 12/13/14 on the Xiaomi Mi 8.

Steps for discharge:

1. Open the Settings app (cog icon).
2. Go to the About Phone section. → Backup and reset.
3. Select Resetting → Erase all data.
4. Enter the screen lock password (if installed).
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

It takes 3-5 minutes. When it's finished, the phone automatically reboots and prompts you to configure it as new. If the "This device is locked" error appears after the reset, the device has activated Mi Cloud Lock protection, so you can log in to the same Mi Account that was tied to the reset.

Make a backup copy in Mi Cloud|Remember the username/password from Mi Account|Charge the phone to 50%+|Make sure there are no important unsaved files-->

⚠️ Note: If the Xiaomi Mi 8 has custom firmware installed (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience), resetting through settings can lead to a download to Fastboot.

Method 2: Hard Reset with Recovery Mode

If the smartphone does not turn on, hangs on the MI logo or is locked with a pattern lock, the only way out is to reset through Recovery Mode. The Xiaomi Mi 8 uses stock MIUI Recovery, but its interface may differ depending on the firmware version.

Instructions for entering Recovery:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
2. Press the Power button + Volume up at the same time.
3. Hold on for 5-7 seconds until the Mi logo and Recovery menu appear.

In the Recovery menu, the volume (move) and power (select) buttons are controlled.

1. Select Wipe Data (or Clear Data in Chinese firmware).
2. Confirm the action by selecting Wipe All Data.
3. Wait until the process is complete (the screen will display the inscription Data wipe complete).
4. Go back to the main menu and select Reboot → Reboot to System.

If the phone is loaded into Fastboot after reset with the words "This MIUI version cannot be installed on this device", then the firmware is damaged.

Method 3: Reset via Mi Account (remote)

If you lose your phone or it's stolen, but it's tied to your Mi Account, you can reset remotely.

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. Select the Find Device tab (Find the device).
3. Click on your Xiaomi Mi 8 in the list of devices.
4. Select the Erase Device option.

Important: After a remote reset, your phone will be locked before entering your Mi Account data at the first setup.

• 📵 Mobile Internet is off on the phone./Wi-Fi.
• 🔄 The device was reset to a remote command (e.g. via Recovery).
• 🔒 Mi Account was untied from phone before theft/loss.

If the remote reset didn’t work, you just have to contact Xiaomi’s support team with proof of purchase (check, box) to unlock through Mi Cloud Unlock, which can take up to 72 hours.

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Before selling the Xiaomi Mi 8, be sure to untie it from the Mi Account in the settings: Settings → Mi Account → Delete the account. This will save the buyer from activation problems after the reset.

What to do if the reset did not help: diagnosis of problems

In 10% of cases, even after a complete reset, the Xiaomi Mi 8 continues to malfunction.

1.The phone hangs on MI logo after reset

Cause: a boot partition or incompatible firmware is damaged.

• 🔧 Switch the official Fastboot ROM Using the Mi Flash Tool (Select Clean All).
• 🔄 Try to install another version MIUI (For example, the Chinese instead of the Chinese).

2. after resetting there is no network (IMEI invalid)

Reason: Modem settings crashed or nvram was damaged.

• 📡 Restore IMEI via Engineer Mode, type ##3646633## → CDS Information → Radio Information).
• 🔄 Switch the modem separately through SP Flash Tool (file) modem.bin formal ROM).

3.The sensor is not working after reset

The reason: sensor drivers fail.

• 🧹 Run the Wipe Cache Partition in Recovery.
• 🔧 Refuse the smartphone with the checkbox Save User Data in the Mi Flash Tool.

⚠️ Note: If after reset Xiaomi Mi 8 stopped charging or turns off when connected to the RAM, the problem may be in the power controller (PMIC). In this case, a diagnosis is required in the service center - a software reset here will not help.

How to avoid problems with resetting: expert advice

To minimize the risks of performing hard reset on Xiaomi Mi 8, follow these guidelines:

1. Check the firmware version. You can find it in Settings → About Phone → MIUI version. If there is custom firmware (e.g. xiaomi.eu), a reset via Recovery can lead to a bootloop.
2. Use the original cable. When reset via Fastboot or Recovery, unstable power can interrupt the process. It is better to connect the phone to charging with the original USB Type-C cable.
3. If the reset through Recovery lasts longer than 10 minutes, don't pull the battery out. Wait for the battery to be finished or discharged.
4. Save IMEI. Write down the IMEI before reset (enter *#06#). If the network is lost after the reset, this data will help restore communication.

If you are planning to sell Xiaomi Mi 8, after resetting:

• 📱 Turn off Find Device in Mi Cloud.

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Resetting through settings is the safest method, but if the phone doesn't turn on, use Recovery Mode. In extreme cases, use Fastboot firmware.

FAQ: Frequent questions about resetting Xiaomi Mi 8