Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones are equipped with powerful data protection systems that by default require a password or fingerprint to be entered every time the screen is turned on. For many users, this becomes an unnecessary barrier, especially if the gadget is used exclusively at home or is a personal device that is limited to one person. Constant unlocking can be annoying, slow interaction with the interface and create a sense of red tape where speed is needed.
The procedure for disabling protection depends on the version of the operating system, whether it is a classic MIUI or a new HyperOS, as well as the type of lock installed. In some cases, it is enough to change the settings in the menu, in others, you will need more complex manipulations if the password is lost. It is important to understand that the complete removal of protection reduces the level of security of your personal data, so it is worth weighing the risks before starting any actions.
In this guide, we will discuss all legal ways to deactivate your lock screen, from standard settings to forced resets. You will learn how to remove a pattern lock, digital code or biometrics, and what to do if your device is locked and your Mi Account is lost. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid being blocked by Google or Xiaomi.
Disabling password through standard settings
The easiest and safest way to remove protection is to use the regular menu of your smartphone, which is suitable if you remember your current password or have access to biometric unlocking. First, you need to enter the Settings section, which is usually represented by a gear on your desktop or in the notification curtain, then the path may vary slightly depending on the firmware version.
In most current versions of the shell, the algorithm of actions is as follows: go to the Passwords and Security section, then select Device Protection. The system will ask you to enter your current password, pattern lock or attach a finger to verify your identity. After successful authorization, the lock type management menu will open.
- 🔓 Click on the active protection method (e.g., "pattern lock" or "PIN-code").
- 🗑️ In the menu that opens, select the option “Switch off” or “Delete password".
- ✅ Confirm the action by re-entering the current security code.
- 🔄 If you request a password from your Mi Account, enter the verification data.
It's worth noting that on some devices with enabled encryption, the system may require you to enter a password from Mi Account or Google Account to permanently remove protection, a security measure to prevent data theft when you lose your phone. If you don't remember your account password, the process can be complicated and you will need to restore access through the web interface.
⚠️ Note: After deactivating the password, all stored fingerprints and facial recognition data will be automatically deleted from the device memory. You will need to reconfigure the biometrics if you decide to return protection in the future.
It is important to understand that the complete absence of a password on the lock screen makes available to outsiders not only the desktop, but also notifications, as well as the functions allowed on the locked screen.
Control of lock types in MIUI and HyperOS
Xiaomi shells provide flexible security tools. In the password and security menu, you can not only turn off the protection, but also replace the complex password with a simpler one, such as a swipe (simple movement of your finger on the screen) or remove it altogether. However, if you want to completely remove the credentials request when you turn on the screen, you need to act consistently.
The new versions of HyperOS have kept the logic of the work the same, but the interface has become more minimalist. When you try to disable the password, the system can warn you that certain functions, such as Find the device or secure folders, will stop working correctly.
Why does Xiaomi require a password from Mi Account?
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the “Stop” button is inactive or hidden, this can occur if the device has corporate profiles, remote management applications, or if the phone is under the control of the organization (MDM), in which case it will not be possible to remove the lock using standard methods.
| Type of lockdown | Level of security | Convenience | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| No/Swipe | Low. | High. | For personal devices at home |
| pattern lock | Medium. | Average. | Basic protection |
| PIN-code (4-6 figure) | Medium. | High. | Optimal balance |
| Password (mixed) | High-pitched | Low. | To store important data |
If you use a smart lock, you can set up automatic unlocking in certain places or when you connect to trusted Bluetooth devices without removing the password completely, a compromise that keeps data secure when you steal, but eliminates the need to enter code in the usual environment.
Resetting settings via Recovery Mode
If you have forgotten your password and can’t get into the settings menu, the only legal way to remove the lock is to completely reset your device to factory settings (Hard Reset), which will delete all user data, including photos, contacts and apps, so it should only be resorted to as a last resort.
To enter recovery mode, you need to turn off your smartphone and press the button combination. On most Xiaomi models, this is the simultaneous pressing of the Volume Up button and the Power button. Hold them until the Mi or Redmi logo appears, then release the power button, continuing to keep the volume.
☑️ Checklist before reset
In the Recovery menu, you can navigate with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button. You need to find Wipe Data or Clear Data, then select Wipe All Data. The system will request confirmation several times, because the action is irreversible.
⚠️ Note: After resetting and rebooting, the device will request a password from a Google account that was previously synced. FRP (Factory Reset Protection: Without this data, the phone will remain locked.
The reset process can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. Do not interrupt the power of the device at this time, otherwise there is a risk of damaging the system files and turning the smartphone into a brick. Once the procedure is completed, the phone will turn on as new, and the lock screen will be absent until the first setting.
Use of the "Find device" function
Google Find My Device allows you to remotely control your smartphone, including erasing all data from it, which is effective if the phone is connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network) and it has geolocation enabled, and also leads to a complete reset, removing the forgotten password.
To perform the operation, go from your computer or other phone to android.com/find and log in under the same Google account as on the locked device. From the list, select your Xiaomi model and click on the Erase Device button.
- 🌐 The device must be online to receive commands.
- 🗑️ All data will be permanently deleted.
- 🔒 The locking password of the screen will be reset.
- 📱 After the reboot, you will need to enter a Google account.
A similar feature is found in Xiaomi Cloud (i.mi.com) if the phone has Mi Cloud and Find Device enabled, you can try resetting via Xiaomi’s web interface. However, recent versions of MIUI often prioritize Google’s account for reset protection.
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If the phone is not connected to the Internet, the reset command will be automatically executed as soon as the device is online. SIM-maps save data.
This method is good because it doesn't require physical access to the smartphone buttons, which can be useful if the volume buttons are faulty, but it's useless if the phone is off or in an area without network coverage.
Mi Account and activation blocking issues
The most difficult situation is when, after resetting, the phone requires a password from a Mi Account that you don't remember or know, which is protection against theft, and it's almost impossible to get around it legally without the owner's data. If you bought the phone out of hand and faced it, chances are the previous owner didn't untie the device.
If your device is yours but you have forgotten your data, try to restore access through account.xiaomi.com. Use the password recovery function for your linked phone number or email. After changing your password on the site, you may need to wait 24 to 72 hours before entering new data on the dropped phone.
In some cases, flashing the device through your computer using the Mi Flash Tool utility and the official firmware in Fastboot mode helps. However, if the phone status in the Xiaomi database is marked as “Lost” or tied to someone else’s account, even flashing it will not remove the activation lock.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid using questionable software to “unlock” for money. Often, they either don’t work on newer versions of Android or contain viruses.
For owners of new devices, the rule is important: before selling or transferring the phone, be sure to log out of all accounts (Settings → Mi Account → Sign out) and perform a full reset.
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Mi Account Blocking Linked to Unique Identifier IMEI Change of devices. SIM-cards or flashing do not remove this protection, since the verification takes place on the company's servers when first turned on.
Alternative methods and settings of Smart Lock
If your goal is not complete security but convenience, consider setting up a Smart Lock, which allows you to keep your screen unlocked while certain conditions are met, such as while your phone is in your hand (facial recognition), while you are at home (geozone), or while your smartwatch is connected.
You can find this feature by using the Settings → Passwords & Security → Device Protection → Smart Lock. There are several profiles available here: “Safe Places”, “Safe Devices” (Bluetooth), “Face Recognition” (less reliable than biometrics in screen settings) and “Physical Contact”.
Using physical contact means that the phone doesn't lock until the sensor senses it's in your hand or in your pocket. Once you put it on the table, it locks. It's a great trade-off between security and not having to constantly enter. PIN-code.
- 🏠 Safe Places: Unlocking at Home or Work.
- ⌚ Secure Devices: Unlocking When Connected to a Watch or Car.
- 👤 Recognition: Unlocking when looking at the screen.
- ✋ Contact: While the phone is in your hand.
Keep in mind that Smart Lock reduces the overall level of protection. If you lose your phone in a "safe place" or lose communication with a Bluetooth device, the finder will be able to access your data without a password.