A forgotten Mi Account password can be a serious problem: without it, you will not be able to use cloud storage, data synchronization, and in some cases even unlock your smartphone after resetting, especially critical for Xiaomi owners, where the account is tied to key features of the system β from software updates to the work of Mi Home and other ecosystem services.
Fortunately, you can restore access directly from your phone, without a computer or complex manipulations. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods, from standard recovery via SMS or email to little-known methods using backup code or support. Importantly, the procedure may differ depending on the model of the smartphone (for example, on the Redmi Note 12 and Xiaomi 13 Ultra menu interface is slightly different) and the versions of MIUI. We took these nuances into account and prepared universal instructions.
1. password recovery via SMS or email
The fastest and most reliable way is to use a linked phone number or email, and this method works if you have access to at least one of them.
To begin recovery:
- π± Open the Settings app on your phone β Mi Account (or Accounts and Syncs on New Versions) MIUI).
- π Click on the profile avatar in the upper right corner, then select Account Management β Security.
- π Slip on Forgot Password? or Restore Access (wording may vary).
- π§ Choose a Recovery Method: SMS (If the number is tied or Email (if the mail is tied).
Once you have selected the method, the system will send the verification code, enter it in the appropriate field and follow the further instructions to create a new password. Note: the code is only valid for 5 minutes, so do not delay the input.
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If the SMS doesnβt come, check the Spam folder in the messenger or try to request the code again after 1-2 minutes. Some models (such as POCO X5) may require a phone restart to send SMS correctly.
2. Use of backup code (if saved)
When you create a Mi Account, the system offers to save a backup recovery code, a unique combination of 8-10 characters, and if you write or save this code (for example, in notes or on paper), it can be used to unlock.
How to do this:
- Go to Settings β Mi Account β Security.
- Select Restore Access with a backup code.
- Enter the saved code in the field and confirm the action.
- Create a new password and save the changes.
β οΈ Note: The backup code can only be used once, and after application, the system will generate new code β be sure to save it in a safe place (for example, in the password manager Bitwarden or in the system). 1Password).
What to do if the backup code is lost?
3. Restore via a linked Google account (older models only)
Xiaomi smartphones released before 2021 (such as the Redmi Note 8 Pro, Mi 9T) sometimes run a Google account recovery if it was tied to the device, an informal method that may not work on new models with MIUI 13+.
Procedure:
- π§ Reset your phone to factory settings (Settings) β The phone. β Resetting settings).
- π± After restarting at the system setup stage, select Restore with Google.
- π Enter data from your Google account (the one you used on your device before).
- βοΈ If the system offers to restore Mi Account, follow the instructions on the screen.
β οΈ Note: This method does not work on models with a MediaTek Helio G chip (e.g., Redmi). 10A), Because they use a different encryption mechanism, and when they reset, all local files (photos, videos, messages) will be deleted, back up in advance. MIUI Backup or Google Drive.
4.Speaking to Xiaomi: When Nothing Helps
If standard methods fail (e.g., no access to a linked number or mail), the only option is to contact Xiaomi official support, a process that may take time, but is guaranteed to help you regain access if you confirm ownership of the account.
How to apply:
- Go to account.xiaomi.com from any device (you can use a computer).
- Click Need Help? or Contact Support (button usually at the bottom of the page).
- Select the problem: Restore access to your Mi Account.
- Fill out the form by specifying: π IMEI Devices (can be found in Settings) β The phone. β General information or on the box). π Date of account creation (approximately). π± Phone model (e.g. Xiaomi) 12T Pro). π Check or photograph of the box (if any).
The application period is 3 to 7 business days, and in some cases (for example, if the account was created in another region), additional verification may be required, including a video message with the passport.
IMEI device|Photo of a box with a serial number|Check or guarantee card|Screenshot of the latest purchase in the Mi Store|Passport (for verification of identity)-->
5. Alternative methods: risks and limitations
Alternative ways to restore Mi accounts, from using ADB to Fastboot, are available online, but most of them either donβt work on newer versions of MIUI or carry risks:
| Method | Risks. | Relevance in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Firmware through Fastboot | Data loss, bootloader lockdown | Not working on MIUI 14+ |
| Using ADB for discharge | Requires an unlocked bootloader | It only works on older models (until 2020). |
| Removal mi_account through TWRP | Loss of IMEI, network problems | Not applicable to devices with Dynamic Partition |
| Buying an account on third-party sites | Fraud, loss of device | Banned by Xiaomiβs Rules |
β οΈ Note: Any manipulation of firmware or system files can lead to permanent locking of the device (brick). For example, models with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor (for example, Xiaomi 13) incorrect interference with the device. EDL-The system makes the phone unfit for recovery even in the service center.
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The only safe way to recover is through official methods via SMS, email or support, all other options can lead to loss of warranty or device breakdown.
6. How to avoid problems in the future: safety tips
To avoid getting your Mi Account blocked again, follow these guidelines:
- π Use a password manager (such as KeePass or built-in in) MIUI) account-storage.
- π§ Link an additional email to your account (you can use a backup email on ProtonMail or Gmail).
- π± Enable two-factor authentication in security settings (Settings) β Mi Account. β Security β Two-step verification).
- π Regularly (once in) 3-6 Update the backup code and keep it separate from your phone.
- π« Do not use the same password for your Mi Account and other services (e.g. social media).
It is also useful to back up data via MIUI Backup or Google One, which will help you quickly recover information even after you completely reset your settings. On new models (such as Xiaomi 14), you can set up backup automatically on a schedule.
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If you change Xiaomi phones frequently, set up a separate email specifically for your Mi Account (e.g. mi.account.yourname@gmail.com) to make it easier to manage and reduce the risk of loss of access when you change your main email.