The USB debugging mode on Xiaomi smartphones is a hidden feature that makes it impossible to perform half of the technical operations without it: from installing custom firmware to recovering data through ADB. The problem is that the manufacturer deliberately hides this option in the depths of the MIUI menu, and on new models (for example, Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro+), the inclusion algorithm has changed. If you tried to find this option through a standard search for settings, most likely to no avail.
In this article, we will discuss the current ways of activation. USB-debugging on all versions MIUI (including MIUI 15 based on Android 14), explain why it may not turn on, and give a checklist to check the correct operation. POCO And Black Shark -- their firmware often behaves outside the box. ADB, end-up FAQ Responding to typical beginner mistakes.
Why Xiaomi doesn’t have a USB Debugging option in its settings?
On Xiaomi smartphones, the debugging option over USB is hidden behind two levels of protection:
- 🔒 Developer Mode – You must unlock it first (deactivated by default).
- 📱 MIUI Optimization is a proprietary add-on that can block access to engineering functions even after activation of the developer mode.
Also on Android 12 models+ (for example, Xiaomi 13T or Redmi K60) Additional verification: the system requires PIN-unlock code or password when you first connect to a PC. ADB It just won't see the device.
Another reason is regional restrictions. Some firmware in China (e.g., Xiaomi Mix Fold 3) USB may be called otherwise: USB Debugging or hiding in the submenu Additional settings for developers.
Preparation: What to do before the inclusion of debugging
Before you get into the settings, follow these steps – they will save you an hour of nerves:
Charge your phone at least 50% (at low charge, MIUI blocks engineering functions)
Connect the device to stable Wi-Fi (required to unlock the bootloader if needed)
Make sure that the ADB and Fastboot drivers are installed on the PC (you can download from the Google website)
Disable VPNs and Proxies – They May Hinder Authentication When You First Connect
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Critically, if you plan to use debugging to firmware or unlock the bootloader, back up in advance via Mi Cloud or TWRP. On some models (e.g. POCO F5), OEM Unlock activation results in a complete device reset.
Also check out MIUI: Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version. If you have MIUI 14.0.5+ or Android 13/14, use an alternative method (described in section 4). The old instructions for MIUI 12 on these firmwares won't work.
Method 1: Standard debugging enablement (MIUI 12–15)
This method works on most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO,Released devices after 2019, except for Android 14 models (for these, see Method 2).
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Find the MIUI version and tap it 7 times in a row, and a notification will appear: You became a developer!
- Go back to the main settings menu. Now there should be a new item: Additional settings → Developer settings.
- In the Developer Settings section, find the USB Debugging option and turn it on. Confirm the action by pressing OK in the pop-up window.
- Connect your phone to your PC. You'll see a request for debugging permission on your smartphone screen -- tick Always Allow from that computer and click Allow.
If there is no Developer Parameters:
- 🔄 Restart your phone - sometimes MIUI It does not immediately display a new section.
- 🔍 Check if it is hidden in the submenu System and device (on some firmware).
- 🛠️ Update. MIUI up to the latest version - in old builds there are bugs with display.
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When connecting to a PC, the phone makes an error "USB-Device not identified, download official Xiaomi drivers from the site MIUI Download (Tools section).
Method 2: Alternative method for Android 13/14 and MIUI 15
On newer versions of MIUI (starting with 14.0.6), the standard path may not work due to changes in security policy.
- Activate Developer Mode (7 taps according to MIUI version as in Method 1).
- Go to Settings → Additional settings → Developer settings.
- Find the option. MIUI Optimization (or Optimization) MIUI) And you turn it off. It'll alert you to any failures -- ignore and confirm.
- Reboot your phone. Once you turn on, the USB debugging option should be active.
- Turn it on and connect to your PC. If you don't get permission, check Settings → Connected devices and manually verify your trust in your computer.
On Xiaomi 14 and Redmi Note 13 with Android 14, after disabling MIUI Optimization, the Swipe Up gesture to return to the home screen may disappear. To return it, turn on MIUI Optimization back, activate debugging, and then turn off optimization again.
If the debugging still doesn't work:
- 🔧 Check if the box is opposite the withdrawal of permission USB-Debugging (in the same developer menu).
- 📱 Reset network settings: Settings → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Resetting network settings.
- 🖥️ Try connecting to another. USB-port (preferably) USB 3.0) or use the original Xiaomi cable.
Table: Compatibility of methods with different models Xiaomi
| Model | MIUI version | Android | The right way. | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 14 / 14 Pro | 15.0+ | 14 | Method 2 | Requires MIUI Optimization to be disabled, possible gesture bugs. |
| Redmi Note 12 / 13 | 14.0.3–15.0 | 13 | Method 1 or 2 | On some firmware, you need to first enable OEM Unlock. |
| POCO F5 / X5 Pro | 14.0.4+ | 13 | Method 2 | You may need to manually resolve Settings → Connected devices. |
| Xiaomi 12T / 13 Lite | 13.0–14.0 | 12/13 | Method 1 | In Chinese firmware, the item is called USB. |
| Redmi 10 / Note 11 | 12.5–13.0 | 11/12 | Method 1 | No features. It works the first time 95% of the time. |
If your model is not in the table, focus on the MIUI version:
- 📱 MIUI 12–13 → Method 1.
- 📱 MIUI 14–15 → Method 2 (with optimisation off).
What to do if the USB debugging does not work?
Even after successful activation, the ADB may not see the device.
- Check the connection: Adb devices If the list is empty – the problem is in the drivers or cable.
- Update ADB to the latest version: adb kill-server adb start-server
- On the phone, turn off and enable USB Debugging again, then reconnect USB.
- Try another one. USB-port (preferably on the back of the PC) or other cable (original Xiaomi Type-C).
- On Windows, check Device Manager: If there is an exclamation point next to Xiaomi, reinstall the driver manually.
Typical errors and decisions:
- ❌ unauthorized → The phone doesn't confirm the debugging request.
- ❌ device offline → Turn on the phone File Transfer (MTP) notice-curtain.
- ❌ no permissions → Run on PC: Adb root Then restart ADB.
How to Reset Your ADB Settings Completely If Nothing Helps
⚠️ Note: Some Xiaomi models (e.g. Mi 11 Ultra) after resetting ADB It's locked for 24 hours, so you can either wait a day or use another computer to connect.
Security: Risks of enabled USB debugging
USB debugging mode allows low-level access to the system, which can be dangerous:
- 🕵️♂️ Data breach: Through ADB You can copy personal files, message history, and even passwords (unless they are encrypted).
- 💣 Malware installation: An attacker can remotely install an application with superuser rights.
- 🔓 Bypass locking: On the unlocked bootloader, you can reset the pattern lock or PIN-code.
How to minimize the risks:
- 🔐 Turn on debugging only when necessary and turn off after use.
- 🖥️ Connect your phone to trusted PCs only (in public places, use charging stations without data transfer).
- 🛡️ Set a password for Developer Settings: Settings → System system → Additionally. → Developer parameters → Password for Developer Settings.
- 🔄 Check the list of trusted computers regularly: Settings → Connected devices → USB-debugging.
If you sell or transfer a phone, be sure to turn off debugging and reset to factory settings. Some models (such as the Black Shark 5) even after reset, leave traces of the device. ADB-keys - in this case, only flashing through Fastboot will help.
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USB debugging is like an open door to your smartphone, use it only on trusted devices and turn it off as soon as you finish.