Regime. USB Debugging (debugging by USB) Xiaomi is a hidden feature for developers that gives you access to the advanced capabilities of the device. Without it, you can't flash your phone through fastboot, get root rights, use it. ADB-But the manufacturer hides this mode deep in the settings, and its activation requires prior unlocking of the developer options.
In this article, you will find the latest manual for MIUI 14/15 (2026), which is suitable for all modern Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models, from the budget Redmi Note 12 to the flagship Xiaomi 14 Ultra. We will analyze not only the standard way to turn on, but also the avoidance of possible errors (for example, when the debugging button is inactive), and also give security tips. If you plan to sew your phone or install custom software, this guide will become your navigation map.
Why do you need USB Debugging on Xiaomi?
USB debugging isn't just a "geek mode," it's needed in a number of practical scenarios:
- 🔧 Firmware via fastboot: Installing official or custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) requires a connection to a PC with debugging enabled.
- 📱 Root rights: Programs like Magisk or SuperSU use the same software. ADB to obtain superuser rights.
- 🐞 Application testing: Developers debug programs directly on the device through Android Studio.
- 🔄 Data recovery: Tools like Dr.Fone or Tenorshare require debugging to scan a smartphone’s memory.
- 🔓 Bypassing locks: In some cases (such as a forgotten pattern lock), debugging helps unlock the device without resetting.
But there are risks: when you connect to an untrusted PC, an attacker can access data or install malware, so Xiaomi hides this option behind several layers of protection.
⚠️ Attention: Inclusion USB Debugging is disabling some of the protective mechanisms MIUI, including data breach protection. Don't connect your phone to a public one. USB-ports (for example, in airports or cafes) with active debugging.
Preparation: Unlocking the Developer Menu
Before you start debugging, you need to activate the hidden "Developers" menu. In MIUI, this is done via the About Phone settings, but the path may vary depending on the firmware version.
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Find the line "Version" MIUI" and tap it 7 times in a row (on some models - 10 times).
- The message will be: “You are a developer!”
- Return to the main Settings menu – there will be a new item “Additional” → “For developers”.
On some devices (e.g., POCO F5 or Redmi K60), the path may look like Settings → System → Additional → For developers. If the menu doesn’t appear, check:
- 📱 Version MIUI: on old firmware (below) MIUI 12) another algorithm may be required.
- 🔒 Mi Account: on some models without a linked account, the menu is not unlocked.
- 🔄 Reboot: Sometimes changes only apply after restart.
Step-by-step: how to turn on USB Debugging
Once the developer menu is unlocked, you can start debugging activation. Follow the instructions carefully - skipping steps can lead to connection errors.
The menu "For developers" has been activated"|USB-cable connected to PC|Drivers are installed on the PC ADB|Smartphone unlocked (no pin code / pattern lock)-->
- Open the developer menu: Go to Settings → Additional → Developer (or Settings → System → Additional → Developers on new versions of MIUI).
- Find the debugging option: Scroll down to the Debugging block and find the USB Debugging switch (or USB debugging in English firmware).
- Activate mode: Turn the slider to "On." A warning will appear, press "OK." Some models (Xiaomi 13T, POCO X5 Pro) will require you to enter the password from Mi Account to confirm.
- Confirm trust in the PC: When you first connect to the computer, the request "Allow debugging over USB?" with the RSA key will appear on the phone screen. Check "Always allow from this computer" and click "Allow".
If after these actions the PC still does not see the device, check:
- 🔌 Cable: Use the original Xiaomi cable or certified USB-C (Cheap cables often don’t support data transmission).
- 🖥️ Drivers: The PC must be installed ADB-Drivers (you can download from Google or Mi) PC Suite).
- 🔄 Connection mode: In the notification curtain, select "File Transfer" (MTP), Not Charging".
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If the USB Debugging button is inactive (grey), check if the OEM Unlock option is included in the same developer menu, and on some models, it blocks debugging activation.
Common mistakes and their solution
Even if you follow the instructions correctly, users often encounter problems, and we have collected TOP-5 errors and ways to fix them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| The device is not found in adb devices | There are no drivers or incorrect connection mode | Install Mi USB Driver, switch mode to MTP |
| The debugging button is inactive | Unlocked OEM Unlock or Mi Account Protection enabled | Enable OEM Unlock in the Developer Menu and Link Your Mi Account |
| Unauthorized (unauthorized device) | Not confirmed trust in PC or reset settings | Disconnect/connect the cable again and confirm the request on the phone |
| Debugging is self-deactivated. | The option “Revocation of USB permissions” is active in the developer menu | Disable this option or add PCs to trusted devices |
| Device offline in adb | ADB version conflict or USB port issues | Update Android SDK Platform-Tools and try a different port |
If none of these methods worked, try resetting the network settings (Settings). → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Reset network settings) or update firmware to the latest version.
⚠️ Note: On devices with a blocked bootloader (bootloader) some ADB-Teams may not work even if debugging is enabled. Full access requires unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool (more in our Xiaomi Unlock Guide).
Security: How to protect data when debugging is enabled
Activating USB Debugging opens up potential vulnerabilities. Follow these rules to minimize the risks:
- 🔒 Turn off debugging after use: Leave it on constantly - how to keep the door to the house open.
- 🖥️ Use Trusted PCs: Connect your phone to your devices or trusted workstations only.
- 🛡️ Set up the lock: Enable "Blocking when connected" USB" Developer menu (if available).
- 🔄 Reset permissions: In the menu "For developers" there is an option "Revocation of permissions" USB" — Use it after working with unfamiliar PCs.
MIUI 14/15 has a Debugging Protection feature that requests Mi Account confirmation every time you connect, activate it in the security settings.
What can an attacker do with the debugging enabled?
Features for different Xiaomi models
Although the general algorithm for enabling debugging is the same, there are nuances on some devices:
- 📱 Xiaomi 13/14 Mi Account Confirmation Required Even When You First Enable Debugging.
- 📱 POCO F5/X5: The developer menu may be called "Developer options" (on global firmware).
- 📱 Redmi Note 12: On some versions MIUI You must first turn on "Allow unlocking" OEM".
- 📱 Xiaomi Pad 6: Debugging may not work through USB-C-Hub – connect directly to the PC.
On HyperOS devices (a new shell instead of MIUI, debuted in 2026), the path to the developer menu has changed:
Settings → About Phone → HyperOS Version (stamp 7 times) → Return to Settings → Additional → Developer OptionsChecking the work of USB Debugging
To make sure that the debugging is working correctly, follow the following steps:
- Connect your phone to your PC via USB.
- Open the Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
- Enter the command: Adb devices
- If the device is identified, you will see its serial number with device status, for example: List of devices attached 1234abcd5678 device
If the device is displayed unauthorized, then you have not confirmed trust in the PC on the phone (see step 4 in the instructions).
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If the adb device command produces a command not found error, then the ADB is not installed or added to the environment variables. Download Platform Tools from Google and try again.