The hidden capabilities of Xiaomi smartphones allow you to fine-tune hardware, test modules and even restore the device after failures. Service menu (it is also engineering or factory) is a special section not available in the standard interface. MIUI. It is used to diagnose malfunctions, calibrate sensors or unlock additional functions that the manufacturer has hidden from ordinary users.
However, entering this menu requires caution: improper actions can lead to loss of warranty, firmware failure or even βbrickingβ of the device. In this article, we will explain how to safely access service settings on Xiaomi, Redmi and smartphones. POCO, Including current codes for new models (2023-2026), you will also learn what features are hidden there and when they are justified.
What is a service menu on Xiaomi and why it is necessary
The service menu is a low-level interface that provides access to the hardware components of a smartphone without having to disassemble the device or use specialized software.
- π§ Engineering menu (#4636##) β includes network, battery, usage statistics and basic tests.
- π Factory menu (access via button combinations) β allows you to test the display, camera, speakers, sensors and even refashion the device bypassing standard restrictions.
The main tasks for which the service menu is opened:
- π‘ Network signal quality check (RSSI, noise level, cell information).
- π Battery Diagnosis: Real Capacity, Number of Charging Cycles, Temperature.
- π€ Testing microphones, speakers and vibrator motor (useful for repairs).
- π± Unlock hidden features, such as enabling VoLTE on uncertified carriers.
- π Resetting of use meters (for example, after battery replacement).
β οΈ Note: Changing the settings in the service menu can disrupt the stability of the device. Xiaomi manufacturer does not provide official support for users who interfere with these settings themselves.
It's important to understand that not all features on the menu are safe, such as changing the settings of the module. RF (Radio frequency can cause network loss, and sensor calibration can cause false positives or failures. Before you change anything, write down the current values or take screenshots.
How to log into the service menu on Xiaomi
There are several methods to access hidden settings, and their choice depends on the device model and version. MIUI. Below we will look at all the current methods, including universal and specific for individual lines (Redmi Note, POCO F, Mi 11 and others.).
1. Through the secret USSD-code
The easiest way is to type in special combinations in the Phone app, which work on most Xiaomi devices, but some may be blocked in newer versions. MIUI 14/15:
- π ##4636## - basic engineering menu (phone, battery, usage statistics).
- π‘ ##4634## or #46340##, a network test and a network test. SIM-map.
- π ##44336## - Detailed information about the battery (only for older models).
- π± ##284## - Touch screen test (to check multi-touch).
- π€ ##06## - check-in IMEI (Not a service menu, but useful for diagnosis).
If nothing happens after you enter the code, try adding a # character at the end or beginning, POCO X3 Pro) may need to press the call button after entering the combination.
β οΈ Note: On smartphones with MIUI Global some codes may be disabled, in which case use alternative methods (see below).
2. via the button combination (Hardware Test Mode)
This method is suitable for devices that do not respond to USSD-codes or are in a non-functional state (for example, after an unsuccessful update:
- Turn off your smartphone.
- Press the button combination: For most models: Volume up + For the Redmi Note. 8/9/10: Loudness down + Food. POCO F3/F4: Loudness up + Loudness down + Nutrition.
Mi
Fastboot
Fastboot
Recovery Mode
Recovery
Hardware Test
Service Menu
In this mode, you can test:
- π Display (colors, broken pixels).
- π Speakers and microphone (reproduction of test signals).
- π· Cameras (Autofocus check, flashes).
- π‘ Antennae (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS).
βοΈ Preparation for the entrance to the service menu
3. Through third-party applications
If the standard methods don't work, you can use specialized utilities from Google Play.
- π± MTK Engineering Mode β for devices running Mediatek processors (e.g. Redmi) 9A, POCO M3).
- π§ Shortcut Master β allows you to find hidden menus by keywords.
- π‘ Network Signal Guru β an alternative for working with network parameters.
Warning: Apps from unknown developers may contain malicious code. Check reviews and ratings on Google Play before installing, and some utilities require root rights, which automatically disqualifies warranties.
What if the code doesn't work?
Difference Between Engineering and Manufacturing Menu
Many users confuse the two, although they provide different levels of access to the system.
| Parameter | Engineering menu | Factory menu |
|---|---|---|
| Way of entering | USSD-codes (##4636##) | Combination of buttons when loading |
| Level of access | Viewing information, basic tests | Deep diagnostics, changing hardware parameters |
| Risk to the device | Minimum (only reading data) | High (the modules may be disrupted) |
| Are root rights required? | No. | Partially (for some functions) |
| Examples of functions | Verification IMEI, Battery statistics, network information | Calibration of sensors, display testing, module firmware |
On devices with a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor (for example, Xiaomi 12, POCO F5) The factory menu may contain a Qualcomm Diag Mode section that allows you to connect to your phone via a PC for deep diagnostics, a mode often used by hardware repair centers".
If you just need to check the battery status or signal strength, an engineering menu is enough for complex manipulations (for example, unlocking frequencies). 4G) You will need a factory menu β but you already need experience or instruction from a specialist.
π‘
Before entering the factory menu, turn off debugging by USB In some cases, this prevents conflicts with drivers when connecting to a PC.
What settings can be changed in the service menu
Depending on the Xiaomi model, there are different options available in the service menu, and letβs look at the most popular and potentially dangerous features.
1. Network and communication settings
In the Network Testing section or RF Testing is possible:
- πΆ Change the network mode (2G/3G/4G/5G) manually, even if it is blocked by firmware.
- π Enable VoLTE or VoWiFi on uncertified carriers.
- π‘ Check the signal level in decibels (dBm) and compare with reference values.
- π Disable Internet speed restrictions (relevant for some regional firmware).
Example: On Redmi Note 11, the #4636## menu allows you to force Band 20 (800 MHz) support to be enabled, which improves coverage in rural areas, but incorrect settings can lead to network loss.
Battery diagnostics
The Battery Information section displays:
- π Real capacity (in mAh) - may differ from the manufacturer's declared.
- π Number of charging cycles (depreciation indicator).
- π‘οΈ Temperature in real time.
- β‘ Voltage and charging/discharge current.
If the battery capacity has dropped below 80% of its nominal capacity, it is a signal to replace. (Xiaomi 13, POCO F5) This data can be hidden β then use applications like AccuBattery.
3. Testing of hardware components
In the factory menu (Hardware Test) tests are available:
- π± Touch screen: multi-touch check, dead zones.
- π€ Microphone and speakers: playback of test signals.
- π· Cameras: test autofocus, color rendering, flashes.
- π‘ Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/GPS: scanning networks, checking modules.
- π Vibromotor: Vibration intensity test.
For example, if one of the microphones stopped working after a fall, you can check each one separately on the Audio Test menu, which helps you determine exactly which module is damaged.
β οΈ Warning: Do not interrupt the display or camera tests forcefully (such as pressing Home).This can cause drivers to crash and require a reboot.
4. Hidden features and unlocking capabilities
In the service menu, you can activate functions that Xiaomi has disabled by default:
- πΆ Support for additional support LTE-ranges (useful for roaming).
- π Improved sound quality through Dirac Audio customization.
- π· Unlock camera permissions (e.g., shooting in the camera) 4K old-model).
- π Disabling charging restrictions (for fast charging on non-original units).
For example, on POCO X3 NFC You can use the engineering menu to support 5G, Even if it's not officially declared for your region, it can violate your device's certification.
π‘
Changing network settings (e.g., enabling uncertified frequencies) can result in a lock. IMEI Before experimenting, please check your provider's policy.
Risks and consequences of inappropriate actions
The service menu provides powerful tools, but their misuse can be a serious problem, and here are the most common mistakes and their consequences:
| Action. | Possible consequences | Recovery method |
|---|---|---|
| Change of parameters RF (radiomodule) | Loss of network, inability to call | Reset via Fastboot or Fastboot |
| Error calibration of the battery | Incorrect display of charge, sudden shutdowns | Complete discharge/charging or battery replacement |
| Disconnection of overheating protection | Processor overheating, trottling, board damage | Reset to factory settings |
| Change of IMEI | Network lock, loss of warranty | Recovery through an engineering menu or service center |
Especially dangerous is interference with the Qualcomm Settings section on devices with Snapdragon. NV Items can lead to loss IMEI, This will make the phone unusable for calls, and you can only restore it with specialized software (e.g., software, QPST maui META).
Another risk is activating uncertified functions, such as enabling support. 5G on a device that has not been certified for your region, may lead to a violation of local regulations and locking the device by the operator.
β οΈ Warning: If after changes to the service menu, the phone stopped turning on or got stuck on the Mi logo, do not try to re-enter the menu. Use Fastboot mode and reflash the device through the Mi Flash Tool.
How to exit the service menu and return the default settings
If you accidentally changed your critical parameters or just want to get things back to normal, there are a few ways to do this:
1.Soft reset (without loss of data)
To exit the engineering menu:
- Press the Back or Home button.
- If the menu is hanging, hold the Power button for 10-15 seconds for a forced reboot.
To reset individual parameters (e.g. network settings):
- Go back to the section where the changes were made.
- Find the option of Restore Defaults or Reset.
- Confirm the reset.
2.Severe reset (with loss of data)
If the device is not operating properly after the changes:
- Turn off the phone.
- Press Volume Up + Power to Enter Recovery.
- Select Wipe Data/Factory Reset.
- Confirm the action and restart the device.
This method will delete all user data, but will return factory settings, including service menu options.
3.Recovery via Fastboot
If the phone is not switched on:
- Connect the device to your PC and start the Mi Flash Tool.
- Download the official firmware for your model from the Xiaomi website.
- Select Clean All mode and run the device.
This is an extreme method that is used in case of serious failures, and once the firmware is in place, all data will be erased and the warranty can be cancelled.
π‘
Before resetting settings via Recovery or Fastboot, extract SIM-This will prevent them from being randomly formatted.