Forgot the pattern lock or PIN-The phone is locked after failed attempts to enter, and access to data urgently? This situation is familiar to many owners of Xiaomi smartphones, especially if the device has been left unused for a long time or the password was entered in a hurry. Unlike newer models with face unlock or fingerprint, the Mi 9 (released in 2019) relies on traditional protection techniques, making it difficult to restore access.
In this article, we will discuss 5 How to remove the password from Xiaomi Mi 9 β From the simplest (if you remember the Mi Account) to the most radical (full reset via Recovery), each method is illustrated with screenshots (for current versions). MIUI 14/13) It's accompanied by warnings about possible risks. Importantly, some methods require prior preparation (e.g., the included ones). USB-smackdowns, so read carefully!
If you are looking for a solution for another Xiaomi model (e.g. Redmi Note 10 or POCO X3), note: instructions may differ due to changes in the firmware or hardware platform. For Mi 9 (codename cepheus) all the methods described below are relevant, but methods through ADB do not work on MIUI 12.5+ without first authorizing the device in Mi Account.
1 Unlocking through Mi Account (official method)
The safest method is if you have linked your phone to your Xiaomi account, which is suitable for cases where:
- π You remember the username/password from Mi Account (or you can restore them through the email/SMS).
- πΆ The phone has access to a mobile network or Wi-Fi (to verify your account).
- βοΈ Find the device has been activated in the settings.
Instructions:
- On the locked screen, tap Forgot password? (or Forgot password? on English firmware).
- Choose Restore through Mi Account.
- Enter an email or phone number linked to your account, and it will receive a confirmation code.
- After successful authorization, the system will prompt you to create a new password or reset the old one.
β οΈ Note: If the phone is not connected to the Internet, this method will not work, and Xiaomi may also request additional verification (for example, a tied number for the phone). SMS-code) if the account has not been used for a long time.
2. Reset password through ADB (required USB-debugging)
The method for advanced users who had USB debugging enabled in advance (Settings β About Phone β MIUI Version β 7 taps by build number β For developers β USB debugging). If this item is not done, the method will not work!
What you need:
- π₯οΈ Computer with installed Xiaomi drivers (download from the official website).
- π USB-cable (preferably original).
- π οΈ Utility. ADB (is part of Android SDK Platform Tools).
Step-by-step:
- Connect the Mi 9 to your PC and confirm your trust in the computer on your phone screen (if you have a request).
- Open the command prompt (Win + R β enter cmd) and go to the folder with ADB:
- Check the connection of the device:
- Delete the password file:
- Reboot the phone:
After the reboot, the password will be reset, but all data will be saved.If the adb device command does not show the device, check the drivers or try another one. USB-port.
βοΈ Preparation for ADB-discharge
3. Recovery Mode reset (without data loss)
This works if the Mi 9 has custom firmware installed (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience) or unlocked the bootloader. On the MIUI stock firmware, a reset via Recovery will result in the deletion of all data!
How to log in to Recovery:
- Turn off the phone.
- Press the Power button + Volume up for 10-15 seconds at the same time.
- Release the buttons when the Mi logo and menu appear in English.
Further actions depend on the type of firmware:
| Type of firmware | Action in Recovery | Is the data preserved? |
|---|---|---|
| Stock MIUI | Select Wipe Data β Wipe All Data | β No (full reset) |
| Castomium (TWRP) | Go to Advanced β File Manager, delete /data/system/locksettings files.* | β Yes. |
| MIUI with unlocked loader | Connect your phone to your PC and use ADB (see Method 2) | β Yes. |
β οΈ Note: Xiaomiβs stock Recovery doesnβt allow selectively deleting files β only a full reset.If youβre not sure about the type of firmware, donβt take the risk of using other methods.
π‘
Before resetting via Recovery, remove SIM-card and memory card β this will speed up the process and reduce the risk of file damage.
4. Full reset to factory settings (Hard Reset)
Extreme measure if other methods fail, all data will be deleted, including photos, contacts and apps, suitable for cases where:
- π The phone was bought with hands and the previous owner did not untie the Mi Account.
- π± The device does not respond to other unlocking methods.
- π§ You need to access it urgently, and the data is not critical.
Instructions:
- Enter Recovery Mode (see Method 3).
- Use volume buttons for navigation and power button for selection.
- Choose Wipe Data β Wipe All Data.
- Confirm the action (Confirm).
- After reset, select Reboot β Reboot to System.
The phone will reboot to the βout of the boxβ state, and the first time it is turned on, you will need to go through the initial setting, including binding to Mi Account (if the phone was stolen, the original owner will be able to block it remotely!).
What to do if your phone asks for an old Mi Account after a reset?
5. Alternative methods (for experienced users)
If the standard methods do not work, you can try:
A. Unlocking through Fastboot
Requires an unlocked bootloader and PC. Reset commands:
fastboot flashing unlock
fastboot erase userdata
fastboot erase metadata
fastboot rebootβ οΈ Warning: Incorrect use of fastboot can turn your phone into a brick, a method that is only recommended if you have previously worked with firmware.
B. Use of third-party utilities
Programs like Mi Flash Tool or SP Flash Tool allow you to flash your phone from scratch, but:
- π« Risk of damage IMEI communications module.
- π Requires official firmware for Mi 9 (you can download on Xiaomi Firmware Updater).
- π‘οΈ You need to unplug your Mi Account in advance.
π‘
Third-party unlocking utilities often contain malicious code. Use only official tools from Xiaomi or verified sources (e.g., the XDA Developers forum).
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When trying to remove the password, users of Xiaomi Mi 9 face typical problems:
- ADB Cannot see the device: Solution: Install Xiaomi drivers manually through Device Manager (select Device Manager) ADB Interface. Try another one. USB-cable.
- After reset, asks for an old Mi Account: Solution: See spoiler above. If the phone isn't yours, return it to the seller - unlocking through third-party services can cost more than the device itself.
- Phone is not included in Recovery: Solution: Try to pin Power + Volume up longer (up to 20 seconds). If it doesn't help - battery is discharged (charge the phone 10-15 minutes).
If none of these methods worked, contact the Xiaomi service center. For the Mi 9, the official unlock cost is ~1,500β3,000 rubles (depending on the region).