How to Reset Xiaomi Mi 9 to Factory Settings: The Complete Guide

The Xiaomi Mi 9, released in 2019, is still a popular device thanks to its powerful processor and high-quality screen. However, over time, the MIUI operating system can accumulate software errors, cache files and application conflicts, which leads to slowdowns. In such situations, the most effective solution is a complete return to the original state, which deletes all user data and restores the clean file structure.

The reset procedure, known as Hard Reset, is necessary not only to fix software failures, but also to prepare a device for sale or transfer to another user. It is important to understand that this process is irreversible for current data, so it must be approached with full responsibility and prior preparation of backup copies.

In this guide, we will take a look at all the available methods for returning the Xiaomi Mi 9 to factory parameters, we will look at the standard tools of the Android operating system, Recovery mode, and also answer frequently asked questions about security and deleting accounts.

Preparation of the device before the cleaning procedure

Before you start erasing data, you need to do a number of critical things to avoid losing valuable information forever.The first step should always be to back up your contacts, photos, messages and app settings. In the Xiaomi ecosystem, it’s convenient to use the Mi Cloud cloud service or local save to your computer via a USB cable.

Be sure to check the battery level. The memory partition formatting process can take 5 to 15 minutes, and a sudden power outage at this point can damage system files. The optimal charge level for a safe reset is above 60%. If the battery is discharged, connect the device to the original charger.

You should also untie your device from your Google account if you plan to sell the phone, although when completely reset via the menu, settings usually request password confirmation.Make sure you remember the login details to your Mi Account and Google Account, as after the reboot, the system will require them to confirm ownership (FRP protection).

Reset via the standard MIUI settings menu

The easiest and safest way to get the Xiaomi Mi 9 back to its original state is to use the built-in functionality of the operating system. This method is suitable for cases when the smartphone is turned on, the screen responds to touch, and you have access to the main menu. The algorithm is unified for most versions of the shell MIUI.

To start, open the Settings app and scroll to the bottom of the list. You are interested in the About Phone item, which contains technical information about the model, Android version and MIUI version. Inside this menu, you need to find the Settings Reset option, which is usually located at the bottom of the list.

The system will offer several cleanup options. To completely delete all data, select “Erase all data.” Before the final confirmation, MIUI will show a list of what will be deleted and ask for a pattern lock, password or pin if installed on the lock screen.

Once you enter the security code, the final warning will appear: press the Next button and then Clear Now. The smartphone will reboot and the formatting process will begin, the progress of which will be reported by the indicator on the screen.

Use Recovery Mode for Hard Reset

If the Android operating system is unstable, hangs on the logo or does not respond to touches, you need to use Recovery mode. This is a special diagnostic mode, sewn into the device's memory regardless of the main firmware, logged in with a combination of physical buttons when the smartphone is turned off.

To get into the Recovery menu on Xiaomi Mi 9, turn the device off completely. Then simultaneously press the volume button (Top) and the power button. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, after which the power button can be released, continuing to hold the volume until the main recovery menu appears.

Navigation in this mode is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button. You need to find the Wipe Data item. In new versions of MIUI, you may need to select the Wipe All Data option and confirm the action with the Confirm button.

Once the cleanup process is complete, the system will automatically return to the main menu. Select Reboot and then Reboot to System. The first run after the reset will take longer than usual, as the system needs to re-index the files.

Deleting Google Account and Protecting FRP

One of the most important security features in Android is FRP (Factory Reset Protection), which is designed to protect against theft: if an attacker steals a phone and tries to reset it through Recovery, when turned on, the device will require you to enter a login and password from a Google account that was synced earlier.

If you’re resetting your phone for yourself, just remember your details. However, if you’re selling a Xiaomi Mi 9, it’s crucial to delete your account before reset. Go to Settings → Accounts & Sync → Google, select your address and click “Delete Account.” Only then do the reset.

⚠️ Note: If you have reset but forgot to delete your Google account in advance and don’t remember your password, it will be extremely difficult to unlock your device.

Xiaomi owners are advised to log out of their Mi Account before selling the device through the settings menu so that the new owner does not face an activation lock.

Problem Solving: The phone is not switched on or got stuck

Sometimes users are faced with a situation when Xiaomi Mi 9 It stops responding to commands, but it doesn't come into Recovery mode either, and in such cases, a long restart or an attempt to connect to a computer can help. 15-20 Seconds – this will force the device to shut down and start it again.

If the smartphone is endlessly restarted (bootloop), the system partition may be damaged, in which case a simple reset via Recovery may not help, and you will need to flash the device using the computer and the Mi Flash Tool utility. This is a more complex procedure that requires an unlocked bootloader.

It’s also worth checking the integrity of the buttons. On the Mi 9, the buttons can be triggered due to wear or moisture. If the volume button is stuck when pressed, the phone can constantly try to enter Recovery or Fastboot mode.

Comparison of data dumping methods

To make it easier to choose the right method, we have prepared a summary table that will help you determine which cleaning option is best used in your situation, each method has its own application characteristics and risks.

As you can see from the table, the most preferred method for the average user is through the settings menu, which is the most understandable and safe, Recovery mode is "heavy artillery" for cases of serious failure.

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After resetting, don’t rush to restore all applications from the backup at once. Use a clean phone for a couple of hours to make sure there are no hardware problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Regular backups are the only reliable way to protect data from loss when a smartphone is dropped or broken.