How to remove a PIN code on Xiaomi: from simple to radical

Forgot the PIN on Xiaomi or just want to disable it? This problem is familiar to many owners of Redmi, POCO or Mi smartphones - especially after a long break in use of the device. Fortunately, there are several ways to unlock, and not all of them require a factory reset.

In this article, we will discuss 5 working methods, from standard disabling through settings to radical solutions like Hard Reset or using ADB. Each method is illustrated with screenshots (for current versions of MIUI 12-14) and accompanied by warnings about possible risks. Importantly, some methods lead to data loss, so first check if your Mi Account is connected - this can save photos and contacts.

If you're reading this article on a locked phone, don't despair. Even without access to the screen, there are unlock options (see the Mi Account Restore section). And if the phone is dead and doesn't turn on, charge it to at least 20% first, otherwise the system may not allow you to reset.

1. Standard PIN deactivation through settings

The easiest way is if you know the current PIN and have access to the phone menu, which works on all Xiaomi models, including the Redmi Note 10/11/12, POCO X3/X4/X5 and the flagship Mi 11/12/13.

Instructions:

• 📱 Open Settings (cog icon on the main screen).
• 🔒 Go to Passwords and Security → Screen locking.
• 📝 Enter the current PIN code when the system requests confirmation.
• ❌ Click Remove PIN (or Disable in older versions) MIUI).
• ✅ Confirm the action - the blockage will be removed.

If you don't have a PIN Remove, you've got a pattern lock or fingerprint on your phone as your primary unlock method, in which case you'll first delete the alternatives (in the same menu) and then try again.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware MIUI After disabling the PIN, the system may require you to install a new locking method (e.g., a pattern lock).To remove the protection completely, select No in the confirmation window.

2. reset the PIN code through Mi Account (if you forgot the code)

If you don't remember a PIN, but your phone is linked to a Mi Account, you can use the Find Device feature, which only works under the following conditions:

• 🌐 The phone is connected to the Internet (Wi-Fi or mobile network).
• 📱 Find the device has been activated in the settings.
• 🔑 Remember the username and password from Mi Account.

Step-by-step:

1. From your computer or other phone, go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. Select the locked device in the list (if there are several).
3. Press Find the device. → Unlock.
4. Confirm the action via SMS or email (confirmation code will come).
5. Wait for notification of successful reset – the PIN code will be deleted.

If the site produces an error "Device is offline" - check the phone's connection to the Internet. Sometimes it helps to restart the router or turn on data transfer to the Internet. SIM-map.

3.Use of Recovery Mode for PIN Reset (without data loss)

This is a good way to do it if you don't remember a PIN, but Mi Account isn't tied or working. It uses Recovery Mode, a special recovery mode built into MIUI firmware. Importantly, it doesn't erase data, but it requires confirmation through a Mi Account (if it was added earlier).

How to log in to Recovery Mode:

1. Turn off the phone (press the power button and select Turn off).
2. Press Volume Up + Power at the same time and hold for 10-15 seconds until the Mi logo appears.
3. Release the buttons and you will see the menu in English or Chinese.

Further action:

• 🔧 Choose Wipe & Reset → Wipe All Data (this will NOT delete files, but will only reset the lock settings).
• 🔑 If you have a request to enter a password from Mi Account – enter it.
• ✅ After the reboot, the PIN code will be removed.

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi) 9A/9C, POCO M3) This method may not work because of the stripped down version of Recovery.

4.Full reset (Hard Reset) - a radical method

Hard Reset is an extreme measure that removes all data from your phone, including photos, messages and apps. Use it only if other methods have not worked. The method works on all Xiaomi models, but requires confirmation through Mi Account (if an account was linked).

Instructions for Hard Reset:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press Volume Up + Power to enter Recovery Mode.
3. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data (use volume buttons for navigation, power buttons for confirmation).
4. Confirm the reset - the phone will restart and return to factory settings.

After discharge:

• 📱 The phone will offer to configure it as new.
• 🔑 The PIN will be deleted, but all data (photos, contacts, messages) will disappear forever.
• 🔄 If you were tied Mi Account, after reset, you will need to enter its data to activate the phone.

💡

Before Hard Reset, extract SIM-card and memory card – this will speed up the process and reduce the risk of data damage on them.

5. Unlock through ADB (for advanced users)

method ADB (Android Debug Bridge is suitable for those familiar with the command line.It allows you to delete the PIN code without losing data, but requires pre-activation of Debugging by USB If this function wasn't enabled in advance, it won't work.

What you need:

• 🖥️ A computer with installed Xiaomi drivers and ADB.
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).
• 📱 Included debugging by USB (Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI — Press 7 times, then return to Additional → For developers).

PIN discharge commands:

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

If the PIN code remains after the reboot, repeat the procedure or try an alternative command:

adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.ChooseLockGeneric

⚠️ Attention: Misuse of the right ADB If you're not sure what you're doing, you better use other methods.

💡

ADB is the safest way to reset a PIN without losing data, but it only works if USB debugging has been enabled.

6. Contact the Xiaomi Service Center

If none of the methods worked, the official service remains. Xiaomi can unlock the phone if you have:

• 📄 Check or warranty card (proof of purchase).
• 🆔 Passport holder (to confirm identity).
• 📱 Phone with a charge of at least 30%.

Cost of service:

• ✅ Free – if the phone is guaranteed.
• 💰 500 to 2000 rubles – if the warranty is over (depending on the model and region).

Where to find a service center:

• 🌍 Official website: mi.com/global/service
• 📍 Maps. Google/Yandex on request "Xiaomi Service Center [your city]".

Unlock time: usually 1-3 days, but during peak periods (after the holidays) can take up to a week.

Frequently asked questions