How to return the Xiaomi smartphone to factory settings: all ways

Resetting Xiaomi’s smartphone to factory settings is a necessary procedure when selling a device, fixing software failures or preparing for firmware. However, the wrong actions can lead to data loss, blocking the Mi Account account or even “bricking” the phone. In this article, we will discuss all official and alternative reset methods, including nuances for models with an unlocked bootloader, devices running MIUI and HyperOS, and also consider how to avoid typical errors.

Xiaomi smartphones have two types of reset: soft (through settings) and hard (through Recovery). The first saves files in memory, but removes applications and settings, the second completely cleans the device. There are hidden commands for the engineering menu that allow you to bypass the lock screen — but their use requires caution. Next you will find step-by-step instructions for each situation, from the standard procedure to the recovery of the brick.

When you need to reset to factory settings

Resetting is not always a universal solution, but in some cases it is really necessary:

• 📱 Selling or transferring a phone – deleting personal data (photos, messages, accounts) without the possibility of recovery.
• 🔄 System failures – freezes, spontaneous reboots, application errors (com.android.phone, miui.home).
• 🔒 A forgotten pattern lock/PIN — If other unlock methods (via Mi Account) do not work.
• 📲 Preparation for firmware is a mandatory step before installing custom ROM or a regression to the previous version MIUI.
• 🦠 Viruses or malware – if antivirus utilities can’t cope with the threat.

However, the reset will not help in cases of hardware malfunctions (such as a broken display, battery or communication module problems), and it is useless if the phone is locked through Find My Device – in this case, you will need to contact Xiaomi support.

⚠️ Attention: On models with MIUI 14+ and HyperOS after reset may require re-assignment of the Mi Account, even if the phone has not been blocked before!

Preparation for resetting: what to do in advance

Before resetting, be sure to follow these steps to avoid losing important data:

1. Back up your files via Settings → About Phone → Backup or manually copy them to your PC. Cloud services (Google Drive, Mi Cloud) may not save some data (e.g., messages on Telegram or WhatsApp).
2. Remember the account details – the username and password from Mi Account, as well as Google (you will need after the reset).
3. Check the battery power – the level should be at least 50% to avoid turning off during the procedure.
4. Delete. SIM-Memory card and memory card (if used as internal memory).

For owners of devices with unlocked bootloader (Bootloader) additionally recommended:

• 🔧 Save the file. persist.img (responsible IMEI and serial number).
• 📋 Write down the firmware version (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI).

If you are planning a reset due to a forgotten password, but the phone is connected to Mi Account, try unlocking it through the official website ("Find Device"). This will work if the device has the Find Device feature enabled.

Method 1: Reset via settings (soft reset)

The safest method for most situations is to delete applications and settings, but not to affect files in memory (photos, videos, music). MIUI 12-14 and HyperOS:

1. Open the Settings. → The phone.
2. Slip on Backup and Reset (in HyperOS – Resetting).
3. Select Resetting → Erase all data.
4. Enter. PIN-code or pattern lock (if requested).
5. Confirm the action by clicking Reset Settings.

The phone will reboot and start the cleaning process, which will take 3-10 minutes, and after switching on, you will need to go through the initial setup, as after buying.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO X3 Pro) after reset, you may be asked to enter the old Mi Account password, even if the phone was not tied to the account, this is due to Xiaomi's security policy.

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If the phone hangs on the MI logo for a long time after reset, wait 15-20 minutes. If the freeze continues, go to the Fastboot reset method.

Method 2: Hard Resetting with Recovery Mode

This method completely erases all data, including files in memory, and is used if:

• 🔐 Your phone is locked and you don’t remember your password.
• 📵 The device does not turn on or hangs on the logo.
• 🔄 A soft reset didn’t solve the problem (for example, after a failed update).

Instructions for standard Recovery (relevant to most Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO models):

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds if it freezes).
2. Press the button combination: For most models: Volume up + Power. For POCO F1/F2/F3: Volume down + Power. For Xiaomi 11/12/13 series: Volume up + Volume down + Power (hold 10-15 seconds).

Mi

Recovery

Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.

Wipe Data

Wipe All Data

Confirm

Reboot

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

Method 3: Fastboot Reset (for advanced users)

This method requires a computer and is used if:

• 🔧 Recovery damaged or missing.
• 📱 You need to bypass the Mi Account lock (only for devices with an unlocked bootloader!).
• 🔄 Complete reflashing is required with cleaning of all sections.

Warning: The wrong commands in Fastboot can turn your phone into a brick. Follow the instructions carefully!

Steps:

1. Install ADB and Fastboot on PC.
2. Turn off the phone and put it in Fastboot mode: Volume down + Power Hold until the image of a hare in a hat-eared.
3. Connect your phone to your PC via USB and check the connection with the command: fastboot devices must display the serial number of the device.
4. Run the full reset command: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache fastboot reboot

For devices with a locked bootloader, this method will not work – you will need official unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool.

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Fastboot reset erases the data completely, but it doesn't delete the firmware. If the problem was in the software, you may need to flash it after the reset.

Special cases: resetting a blocked phone

If you forgot your password and Find My Device is disabled, there are several ways to get around the lock:

Method 1: Mi Account (if the phone is tied)

1. Go to the Mi Account website.
2. Log in to your account and select Find Device.
3. Press Unlock Device and confirm the action.
4. The phone will be unlocked remotely (internet connection is required).

Method 2: EDL Mode (unlocked devices only)

This method requires a special cable (EDL cable) or short circuit of contacts on the board, it is suitable for restoring bricks, but it is risky - if you do not do it correctly, you can damage the hardware.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi models with Qualcomm processors (for example, Redmi Note 11 Pro)+, POCO X4 Pro) discharge through EDL It may lead to a blockage. IMEI. Before using this method, make sure you have a backup copy of the persist partition.

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

When resetting Xiaomi, users often face the following problems:

If none of the methods worked and the phone still doesn’t turn on or requires a non-existent account, there may be a hardware problem (e.g., damaged flash memory).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions