A forgotten password on Xiaomi Redmi 8 can turn into a real headache, especially if the device stores important data.Unlike newer models, Redmi 8 (released in 2019) does not support face unlock or fingerprint bypassing the main one. PIN-But there are legal ways to unblock it, from an official reset via Mi Account to technical methods like Fastboot or something like that. EDL-regime.
In this article, we will discuss all the current methods of unlocking, including their pros and cons. Importantly, some methods lead to a complete data cleanup, so if the phone has backups in the Mi Cloud, it will be easier to recover information. Also note that Xiaomi has tightened security policies, and since 2021 some βholesβ in protection have been eliminated. If your Redmi 8 was updated after this date, some methods may not work.
1 Unlocking through Mi Account (official method)
The most secure and recommended method for Xiaomi is to use a tied Mi Account, which works if:
- π± The phone is connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network)
- π You have access to email/phone number associated with the account
- π Find Device has been activated in the settings
Instructions:
- On the lock screen, tap Forgot your password? (if available).
- Enter the username and password from Mi Account.
- Confirm the unlock via SMS or email.
- Follow the system instructions to create a new password.
If the buttons forgot the password? no, try:
- Go to i.mi.com from another device.
- Log in and select Find the device β Xiaomi Redmi 8.
- Click Unlock Device (the feature may not be available if the phone is not online).
β οΈ Note: If two-factor authentication was enabled on the phone (2FA), You need to access the backup code or the Mi Authenticator app, without which you can't unlock your account.
2. Recovery Mode reset (data loss)
If Mi Account is not tied or you don't remember the login details, you have a hard reset through Recovery mode, which deletes all the data on your phone, including photos, contacts and apps, and only use it as a last resort.
Steps for discharge:
- Turn off Redmi 8 with a long press of the power button.
- Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
- Release the buttons β you will be taken to the Recovery Mode menu (manage by the volume and power buttons).
- Select Wipe Data β Wipe All Data (or Factory Reset).
- Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed.
- Reboot your phone with Reboot β Reboot to System.
| Advantages of the method | Deficiencies of the method |
|---|---|
| No need for PC or special programs | Deletes all user data |
| It works without a Mi Account attached. | It will not work if you have Mi Account lock enabled (requires login / password entry after reset) |
| Takes less than 5 minutes. | New firmware may require authorization after reset |
β οΈ Warning: Some Redmi 8 firmwares require data entry from the Mi Account that was previously linked to the phone after resetting via Recovery.If you don't remember them, the phone will remain locked.
βοΈ Preparing for resetting through Recovery
3. Unlock via Fastboot (for advanced users)
Fastboot is suitable if you are familiar with the command line and ready to use a PC. It allows you to reset your password without completely clearing the data, but requires an unlocked bootloader. On Redmi 8, the bootloader is locked by default, so you must first unlock it through the official Mi Unlock Tool tool.
What you need:
- π» Windows computer (recommended) 7/10/11)
- π USB-cable (original or high quality)
- π¦ The Mi Unlock Tool: Mi Unlock Tool, ADB/Fastboot
- π§ Skills of working with the command line
Step-by-step:
- Install ADB/Fastboot and Mi Unlock Tool on PC.
- Put Redmi 8 to Fastboot: Hardware: Turn off the phone β Press Volume down + Power before the rabbit appears in the hat. Software: Connect the phone to the PC β Enter in the command line: adb reboot bootloader
- Connect your phone to your PC and start the Mi Unlock Tool. Sign in to your Mi Account.
- Follow the instructions of the bootloader unlocker program (it can take up to 72 hours due to Xiaomi restrictions).
- Once unlocked, download your phone to Fastboot and execute the command to reset your password: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase locksettings
- Reboot the device: fastboot reboot
If done correctly, the phone will boot without asking for a password, but this method does not guarantee the safety of data, in some cases, settings are reset.
What if Mi Unlock Tool does not unlock the bootloader?
4.Using EDL mode (for power users)
Emergency Download Mode (EDL) is a "emergency" firmware mode that allows you to reflash your phone even with a locked bootloader.
- π§ Special cable (EDL cable) or short circuit of contacts on the board
- π¦ Firmware for Redmi 8 (e.g. fastboot-ROM from Miui Download)
- π» Mi Flash Tool or QFil
β οΈ Warning: Misconduct in the mode EDL This method is recommended only if you are confident in your skills or under the guidance of a specialist.
Instructions:
- Download and install the Mi Flash Tool.
- Unpack the firmware for Redmi 8 (for example, olivelite_global_images_...).
- Put your phone in EDL mode: Method 1: Use EDL cable (closes contacts when connecting to USB). Method 2: Disassemble the phone and close the test points on the board (requires a soldering iron and circuits).
Mi Flash Tool
Flash
Wait for the process to be completed (5-10 minutes).
Once the firmware is in place, the phone will be completely reset, including the password, but this method will void the warranty and may cause problems with the IMEI or modem.
π‘
Before you run through EDL, be sure to check the firmware version. Installing an inappropriate version (for example, for another region) can cause network or camera problems.
5. Contact the Xiaomi Service Center
If the independent attempts are unsuccessful, the most reliable option is to contact the official service center Xiaomi.
- π§ Guaranteed unlock without risk of damage to the phone
- π Preservation of the guarantee (if it is still valid)
- π‘οΈ Legality β No Violations of Xiaomi Policy
What will be required to unlock:
- π Checks or documents confirming the purchase (if the phone is guaranteed)
- π Passport or other identification document
- π± The phone itself is locked.
- π³ Payment for the service (cost varies from 500 to 2000 rubles depending on the region)
The average unlock time in the service is 1-3 working days, and in some cases, it may be necessary to send the phone to a regional center, which will increase the period to 7-10 days.
β οΈ Warning: Unofficial service centers may offer unlocking cheaper, but there is a risk: π Installation of unlicensed software π± Loss. IMEI or serial number π« Blocking your Mi Account for suspicious activity Before contacting, check the reviews about the service and request a license to repair Xiaomi equipment.
π‘
Official service is the only legal way to unlock if you're not sure about your technical skills, and the risks of damaging your phone by acting alone often outweigh the cost of the service.
6. Alternative methods (with caution)
There are many βalternativeβ ways to unlock the internet, such as:
- π± Use of bugs in the interface (e.g., emergency call) + setting-up)
- π§ Programs like Dr.Fone or iMyFone LockWiper
- π Firmware through SP Flash Tool (for phones running MediaTek processors)
However, most of them:
- β Not working on current firmware Redmi 8 (after 2021)
- πΈ Payment for βpremiumβ versions of programs
- π‘οΈ May contain malware
- π΅ Often results in total data loss without unlock guarantee.
If you do decide to try these methods, follow the rules:
- Download the program only from official sites.
- Check firmware files for viruses (for example, via VirusTotal).
- Back up your data (if you have access to your phone via ADB).
- Use only those instructions that are confirmed by Redmi 8 users on the forums (4PDA, XDA Developers).