Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones are equipped with a powerful data protection system, which by default requires the installation of a security code. However, there are situations when the user forgets the previously invented password, changes the device to a new one or simply wants to simplify the unlocking of the screen, eliminating unnecessary actions every time the display is turned on, in such cases, it becomes necessary to completely remove or change the type of lock.
The process of deprotection depends on whether you remember the current access code or not. If the code is known, the procedure takes a couple of minutes and does not require complex interference with the system. If access is lost, you will have to resort to more radical methods that can lead to the deletion of user data.
In this article, we will consider all the current ways to disable the password, pattern lock, PIN-code and biometrics on the shell MIUI We will break down the standard methods through settings, as well as emergency reset options through the recovery menu, paying special attention to the security of your personal files and accounts.
Delete password through standard settings
The easiest and safest way to remove the lock screensaver on Xiaomi is to use the regular system settings menu, which is only suitable if you remember the current password or you have access to the device without entering the code (for example, face unlock works). Before starting the procedure, make sure that the battery is at least 20-30% so that the phone does not turn off during the change of system settings.
To start, open the Settings app and go to Passwords and Security. Depending on the firmware version, this item may be simply called Screen Lock or inside the Device Protection menu, and here you will see the current type of protection, such as pattern lock or "PIN-Click on the corresponding menu item.
The system will ask you to enter your current password to verify your identity, and after you enter it successfully, the lock type selection menu will open. To remove the protection completely, select the No or Disable option. The system can warn you several times that all the data protected by this password (for example, saved logins in the browser or payment data) will become less secure.
⚠️ Warning: After disabling the screen password, features requiring increased security, such as Mi Pay, confirming purchases in Google Play by face and accessing a secure folder, will stop working.
If you plan to temporarily disable your password, for example, to show your phone, remember that this action removes the level of protection of your personal correspondence and photos in the event of loss of a gadget. Biometric data, such as fingerprints, will also be deactivated, as they cannot exist without the main digital key.
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Before disabling your password, back up your important contacts and photos to the Mi Cloud or Google Drive cloud to keep your data safe in case of unforeseen crashes.
Using biometrics instead of passwords
Many users are looking to remove traditional passwords not for the sake of complete insecurity, but for convenience. Instead of typing numbers or drawing patterns, you can configure fingerprint unlocking or face scanning, which allows you to access your desktop instantly while maintaining a high level of data encryption.
The biometrics are set in the same section, Passwords and Security. Select Unlock by fingerprint or face unlock. Follow the instructions on the screen: you will need to apply your finger several times to the scanner (which can be embedded in the on button or on the screen) or look at the front camera at different angles of inclination.
- 👍 Benefits of biometrics: access speed is higher than when entering PIN-code, and you don’t have to remember complex combinations of numbers.
- 🔒 Security: The fingerprint is unique and it is almost impossible to remotely pick it up, unlike simple passwords like "1234".
- ⚙️ Flexibility: You can add a few fingers or adjust face unlock even with gloves (if the model allows).
It’s worth noting that on some Redmi budget models, the fingerprint scanner is located on the back, which can be less convenient than face unlocking.However, Face ID on Android devices often only uses the camera without additional depth sensors, so it’s not recommended to use it to confirm bank transactions, only to log in.
Resetting a forgotten password through Recovery Mode
The situation when the user forgets the lock password is one of the most common. Unfortunately, Xiaomi's security policy does not allow you to simply bypass the lock screen without losing data. If you do not remember the code, the only working way to return access to the phone is to completely reset the settings to the factory (Hard Reset) through the Recovery menu.
To enter recovery mode, turn off your smartphone. Then press the volume button and the power button at the same time. Hold them until the Mi logo appears, then release the power button, but keep the volume up until the main Recovery menu appears. The control here is done with volume buttons (up/down), and the choice is confirmed by the power button.
From the menu, select the language (usually English or Chinese), then go to Wipe Data. Then select Wipe All Data. The system will ask you to confirm the action by selecting Confirm. After the cleaning process is complete, select Back to Main Menu and then Reboot -> Reboot to System.
☑️ Checklist before resetting via Recovery
⚠️ Note: This method completely deletes all user data (photos, contacts, applications) and it will be impossible to restore it without a preliminary copy.
Once you reboot, it's going to look like new, but there's an important caveat: if you've had a device search enabled or a Mi Account enabled, the system will require you to enter your username and password, which is protection against theft, and if you don't remember that data, it's going to be very difficult to unlock your phone legally.
Comparison of methods of removing the lock
The choice of method of removing the lock screensaver depends on your specific situation: whether you remember the password, whether you have access to the settings menu and how important data preservation is. Below is a table that will help determine the best way to solve the problem.
| Method | I need the current password. | Data security | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through Settings. | Yes. | Complete. | Low. |
| Recovery Mode | No. | Data deleted | Medium |
| Mi Cloud Service | No (requires an account) | Depends on the options. | Tall. |
| ADB (debugging) | Access required | It's possible to keep | Tall. |
As you can see from the table, the standard way through settings is the only guarantee of file safety. Using Recovery Mode is a last resort. There is also a method of remote unlocking through the Mi Cloud (Find Device) site, but it only works if the phone has been synced and the Internet connection enabled.
For advanced users, there is a method using ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and a computer, but it requires pre-enabled USB debugging in the developer menu. If this feature has been disabled (and by default it is turned off), this method will not work.
Can I unlock my phone without losing data?
Mi and FRP account issues
After resetting the settings through Recovery, many users are faced with an activation screen that requires a password from Mi Account or Google Account that was previously synced to the device.This is FRP (Factory Reset Protection) protection system designed to make the stolen phone useless to outsiders.
If you reset your personal phone, just enter your data. Problems arise if the phone is bought from hand and the previous owner has not untie the device from his account. In this case, even if you know the lock password, you will not be able to use the phone. The only way out is to contact the seller to remotely untie the device through the i.mi.com website.
- 🔑 Mi Account: Linked to phone hardware, used to search for device and cloud features.
- 📧 Google Account: Standard Android security that requires post-reset mail.
- 🚫 Blocking: If you enter the wrong password several times, your account may be temporarily blocked by the security system.
It is important to distinguish between the lock password and the password from the account. Deleting the first does not delete the second. If you buy a used Xiaomi, always ask the seller to log out of all accounts and reset settings.
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The presence of an active Mi Account on the device is the main obstacle when buying used Xiaomi equipment without prior verification.
Password prevention and management
To avoid access issues in the future, a few digital hygiene rules are recommended: First, never use combinations that are too simple to guess, but don't make them so complex that they can't be remembered. Write down a complex password in a safe place or use a password manager.
Second, be sure to link your phone to your phone number and email in your Mi Account settings, which will allow you to restore access to your account even if you lose your password, and it is also useful to periodically check which devices have access to your account through the security page.
If you often forget passwords, consider using a Smart Lock.This feature allows you to keep your phone unlocked in certain places (like at home) or when connecting to a trusted Bluetooth device (like a smartwatch or headphones). You can find this option on the Settings path -> Passwords and security -> Smart Lock.
⚠️ Warning: Smart Lock reduces overall security, and do not use it when your phone has sensitive data or bank apps.
Regular system updates are also important: With new versions of MIUI and HyperOS, Xiaomi is constantly improving its security algorithms and adding new ways to biometric identification, making the use of complex passwords less burdensome.