Why Xiaomi is blocking the device and can it be bypassed?
Xiaomi smartphones use a multi-level protection system that includes not only standard PIN-If you have entered the wrong password more than 5 times, the system can lock the device for 30 seconds, 5 minutes or even require authorization through the account. This is done to protect against hacking, but what to do if the password is forgotten and access to the account is lost?
In this article, we’ll look at all the current ways to unlock, from official (via Find Device or Mi Unlock Tool) to alternative (using ADB or Fastboot mode). Importantly, some methods require prior preparation (for example, enabled debugging over USB), so their effectiveness depends on how much you have pre-configured your smartphone. If the device is completely locked, do not despair: even in this case, there are solutions.
Before you start, answer one question:
Method 1: Unlocking with Mi Account (official method)
If you have Mi Account sync on your smartphone, and you remember the username and password, it's the easiest way to get back access. Xiaomi provides a Find Device tool that lets you unlock the device remotely. Here's how it works:
- Go to i.mi.com and log in to your account.
- In the Devices section, select a locked smartphone.
- Click Unlock the device and confirm the action via SMS or email.
- Wait for notifications on the smartphone screen – usually unlocking takes 1-2 minutes.
⚠️ Note: If two-factor authentication is enabled on your device, you will need code from the Mi Security app or SMS. If you cannot get the code (for example, SIM-Card lost, use backup codes or restore account access through Xiaomi support.
Smartphone connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network)
The device is synchronized with Mi Account (checked in Settings → Xiaomi Account)
Remember the login/password from the account
Two-factor authentication disabled or backup codes available-->
This method works on all Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models with MIUI 12 and later. If the device does not appear in the list on i.mi.com, check:
- 🔄 Is the firmware updated (outdated versions) MIUI They may not support remote unlocking).
- 📶 Is the mobile Internet enabled (if Wi-Fi is turned off, the smartphone will not be able to receive a command).
- 🔒 Has your account password changed since the last synchronization.
Method 2: Recovery Mode (Data Loss)
If Mi Account is lost and no other options are available, it is hard to reset through Recovery Mode, which deletes all data on the device, including photos, contacts and apps, but is guaranteed to unlock the screen, and is suitable for all Xiaomi models released after 2018.
To enter Recovery Mode:
- Turn off your smartphone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
- Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
- In the recovery menu, select Wipe Data (use volume buttons for navigation, power for confirmation).
- Confirm the reset by selecting Wipe All Data.
- After the process is complete, select Reboot.
⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T Or the Redmi Note 11 Pro.+) After the reset, you may need to enter data from the Mi Account that was linked to the device (FRP). If you do not remember the account data, the smartphone will remain blocked!
What to do if you need a Mi Account after resetting?
| Xiaomi model | Do you need a Mi Account after a reset? | Alternative methods of unlocking |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi 9/9A/9C | No (on MIUI 12 and below) | ADB, Fastboot |
| Xiaomi 11T/11 Lite | Yes (MIUI 13+) | Mi Unlock Tool, service center |
| POCO X3/X4 Pro | Yes (if FRP was turned on) | EDL-Regime (requires an authorized account) |
| Xiaomi 13/14 series | Yes. | Official Unblocking Through Support |
Method 3: Unlock through ADB (if debugging is enabled)
If the smartphone was pre-enabled debugging by USB (Settings → About Phone → MIUI version → 7 times tap to unlock the developer options), you can delete the file with the password through ADB. This method saves data, but requires a computer and cable.
Step-by-step:
- Connect your smartphone to your PC via USB (use the original cable!).
- Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux) in the folder with ADB.
- Enter the commands in order: adb devices (to display your device) adb shell su rm /data/system/gesture.key rm /data/system/password.key rm /data/system/locksettings.db rm /data/system/locksettings.db-wal rm /data/system/locksettings.db-shm reboot
- After resetting, the password will be reset.
⚠️ Attention: On new versions MIUI (14+) Xiaomi has tightened the security, and this method may not work. If the password is still after the reboot, try repeating commands or using an alternative method through Fastboot.
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If ADB doesn’t see the device, install Mi USB Driver drivers from Xiaomi’s official website or use Google USB Driver (for Windows).
Method 4: Use Fastboot and Mi Unlock Tool
For bootloader devices, Xiaomi offers the official Mi Unlock Tool, which allows you to unlock the bootloader, then you can flash custom recovery (such as TWRP) and delete the password.
- 🖥️ Windows computer (7/10/11).
- 🔌 Original. USB-cable.
- 📱 Switched on. OEM Unlock in the developer settings (unless the device is completely locked).
Instructions:
- Download the Mi Unlock Tool and install it.
- Start the program and log in to your Mi Account.
- Transfer the smartphone to Fastboot mode (turn off, then press Volume down + Power).
- Connect the device to the PC and press Unlock in the program.
- Wait until the process is completed (it can take up to 10 minutes).
Once you unlock the bootloader, you can flash TWRP and delete password files through it (similar to the ADB method), but this method voids the warranty and can lead to data loss.
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Mi Unlock Tool only works with accounts that are tied to your device for at least 72 hours. If you recently reset or changed your account, the tool will block unlock for 1-3 weeks.
Method 5: Contact Xiaomi Service Center
If all of the above methods fail, the official service remains: Xiaomi provides proof of ownership unlocking service.
- 📄 Check or invoice for purchase (electronic option is suitable).
- 📦 Box from the device (preferably with a serial number).
- 🆔 Passport or other identity document.
The cost of the service varies from 500 to 2000 rubles depending on the model and region, in some cases, unlocking takes up to 5 working days.
⚠️ Warning: Don't go to informal workshops promising "quick undocumented unlocking" services, often involving fraud (e.g., replacement) IMEI) or installing unlicensed software that results in loss of warranty.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When trying to unlock, users often face typical problems, and here are the most common ones and ways to solve them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn't unlock the Mi Unlock Tool | Account is not tied to 72+ hour device | Wait 3-7 days or use another method. |
| Smartphone is not defined in ADB | Not installed drivers or debugging not included | Install Mi USB Driver or check the cable |
| After resetting, you need an old Mi Account. | FRP (Factory Reset Protection) is included. | Restoring access to your account or contacting the service |
| Remote: Device is locked in Fastboot | bootloader locked | Use the Mi Unlock Tool to unlock the device |
Another common mistake is trying to unlock through Google Find My Device, which doesn’t work on Xiaomi because devices use their own Mi Account system rather than Google’s services, and it’s not recommended to use programs like Dr.Fone or iMyFone, which often require payment and don’t guarantee results.