Why Xiaomi is getting blocked and what to do first
Forgotten password, pattern lock or PIN-Xiaomi code is a situation that one in five users face, and the reasons are trivial: infrequent use of the device, changing the password to "reliable" and then forgetting, or buying a used phone with an already installed lock. 90% of unlocks are possible without data loss.
The first thing to do is to calm down and assess the situation, and if you've ever signed in to a Mi Account on this device, the chances of getting back into the factory settings without resetting are high, and if the phone is hand-built or the account has never been tied, you'll have to use alternative methods, some of which require technical skills.
Importantly, modern Xiaomi models (starting with MIUI 12 and later) have enhanced protection against unauthorized access, which means that βgrandfatherβ methods like resetting via Recovery may not work without first linking the account.
Method 1: Unlocking with Mi Account (the most secure method)
If your Xiaomi is tied to your Mi Account and you remember your username and password, this is your chance to get back access without losing data.The method works on all models, including the Redmi Note 12, Poco X5, Xiaomi 13 and older devices.
Step-by-step:
- π± On the lock screen, tap the button Forgot the password? (or Forgot password? on English firmware).
- π Enter the email or phone number associated with the Mi Account.
- π§ Postal or SMS The confirmation code will come - enter it in the appropriate field.
- π Create a new password or pattern lock.
If the buttons Forgot the password? no (this happens on custom firmware), try to enter any password 5 times in a row - after that the system will offer the option of recovery through the account.
β οΈ Note: If the phone was bought with hands and the previous owner did not untie his Mi Account, this method will not work.
Method 2: Recovery Mode reset (without data loss is not always possible)
This method is suitable for devices that have Mi Account Protection disabled (usually on older models before MIUI 11 or after manual shutdown) and if this function is active, reset will result in a username/password requirement from your account after rebooting.
How to log in to Recovery Mode:
- Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
- Press the combination of Loudness up + Power and hold for 5-7 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
- From the Recovery menu, select Wipe Data β Wipe All Data (use volume buttons for navigation and power button for confirmation).
- After reset, select Reboot β Reboot to System.
If the phone requires input from Mi Account after the reset, the protection was active, in which case you can move to method 3 or 4.
βοΈ Preparing for resetting through Recovery
Method 3: Unlocking via Fastboot (for advanced users)
This method requires a computer, USB-cable and basic knowledge of working with ADB It is suitable for devices where Recovery is blocked or the Xiaomi account is not tied. 12/13, Redmi Note 11/12) This method may not work due to hardware protection.
Instructions:
- Download and install Platform Tools (ADB & Fastboot) on PC.
- Turn off the phone and press Volume Down + Power to log into Fastboot Mode.
- Connect the device to your computer and open the command line in the folder with Platform Tools.
- Enter the command: fastboot oem unlock If the command doesn't work, try: fastboot flashing unlock
- Follow the instructions on your phone screen (unlock confirmation via Mi Account may be required).
After successful unlocking, the phone will restart in Recovery mode, where you can make a data reset.
β οΈ Note: On some models (Poco) F3, Redmi K40) Unlocking through Fastboot deletes all data, including files in internal memory. If the phone is encrypted, it will be impossible to restore data after such a reset.
What if the fastboot oem unlock command doesnβt work?
Method 4: Use of service codes (for older models)
Xiaomi devices before MIUI 10 (e.g. Redmi 4X, Redmi Note 5) sometimes trigger service codes to reset passwords.This method does not guarantee a 100% result, but can help if other methods are not available.
Try the following codes:
- π’ ##7780## - Reset settings (without deleting data).
- π’ *2767*3855# β Resetting everything (including internal memory!).
- π’ ##3646633## - Engineering menu (sometimes allows you to reset your password through the MTK Settings).
Type the code as a normal phone number, and if nothing happens, your model doesn't support it.
π‘
If your phone is locked but you have access to calls (e.g., you can call from another device), try to quickly go to settings and disable your password during the call. This bug worked on some MIUI 9-10 firmware, but it is fixed in newer versions.
Method 5: Contact Xiaomi Service Center (official method)
If all previous methods have failed, the last option is to contact the official Xiaomi service center, which is true for devices with a Mi Account tied, which can not be untie (for example, if the phone is bought by hand and the previous owner is not available).
What will be required:
- π Check or warranty card (proof of purchase).
- π Passport (for proof of identity).
- π± The phone itself with a charge of at least 30%.
The service center may require payment for unlocking (from 500 to 2000 rubles depending on the model), in some cases the procedure takes up to 7 days, as it requires approval from the head office of Xiaomi.
| Unlocking method | Suitable models | You need a PC? | Data loss? | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Through the Mi Account. | All models. | No. | No. | β |
| Recovery Mode | Older models (up to MIUI 11) | No. | Yes. | ββ |
| Fastboot | Models without active protection Mi Account | Yes. | Yes. | βββ |
| Service codes | Models up to 2018 | No. | Yes (partially) | β |
| Service centre | All models. | No. | No (usually) | ββββ |
What to do if nothing helps: alternative solutions
If all of these methods fail, radical measures remain:
- Flashing through EDL-mode (requires special cable and knowledge in the firmware).
- Replacement of the motherboard (expensive, but guaranteed to remove the lock).
- Buying a phone from hand to spare parts and transferring data via an eMMC chip (for power users only).
Warning: self-flashing through EDL can lead to a "brick" (complete failure) of the device. If you are not sure about your skills, you better consult a specialist.