How to exit Fastboot mode on Xiaomi Redmi: a step-by-step guide

Fastboot mode on Xiaomi Redmi smartphones is a special diagnostic mode that is used to firmware, unlock the bootloader or restore the system. However, sometimes the device can “hang” in it after a failed update, resetting or experimenting with custom firmware. If your Redmi shows a black screen labeled FASTBOOT and a hare in a hat-husband, do not panic: in 90% of cases, the problem can be solved without going to the service center.

In this article, we will discuss 5 proven ways to exit Fastboot mode, from the simplest (button reboot) to advanced (ADB and MiFlash), pay special attention to the nuances for different Redmi models (from Redmi Note 4X to Redmi 12), and also warn against common errors that can turn a temporary problem into a “brick.” If you are not sure about your actions, never confirm commands in Fastboot, if you do not know the consequences: this can erase all data or lock the device forever.

Why is the smartphone stuck in Fastboot mode?

Fastboot is activated automatically in several cases:

• 🔄 Interrupted software update - if the firmware through MIUI Updater or MiFlash was interrupted (battery is dead, disconnected) USB-cable).
• 🔓 Unlock the bootloader – after the command fastboot oem unlock, the device can “stick” in this mode, if the Xiaomi server has not confirmed the unlock.
• ⚡ Improper shutdown – if forced to reboot during critical operations (e.g., reset to factory settings).
• 🛠️ Castom firmware - installation of unofficial Recovery (TWRP) bug-in.
• 🔋 Hardware failures - damage to the connector USB-C, Failure of the power button or memory controller.

The Fastboot displays the status of the device, for example, the Device is LOCKED bar means that the bootloader is locked and Device is UNLOCKED unlocked. If you see an Invalid partition table or No OS installed, it's a signal that the system partitions are damaged, so you need to flash it back.

Method 1: Forced button reboot

The easiest and safest method is hardware reset, which works if the smartphone is physically healthy and the Fastboot is activated due to a software failure.

1. Hold the power button for 10-15 seconds until the screen goes out.
2. If the device doesn’t respond, try the combination: Power button + Volume up Hold them for 20 to 30 seconds until you feel the vibration or see the MI logo.
3. If your smartphone is loaded, the problem is solved. If the Fastboot comes back, move on to the next way.

On some Redmi models (such as the Redmi 9A or Redmi Note 10), the button combination may be different. If the standard method didn't work, try:

• 🔄 Nutrition + Loudness down (hold 10 seconds).
• 🔄 Nutrition + Loudness up + Loudness down (for older models, such as Redmi) 4X).

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If the power button is faulty, plug in the charger – sometimes the smartphone responds to charging and exits the Fastboot automatically.

Method 2: Exit via Mi Assistant (Official Xiaomi Tool)

If the hardware reboot didn’t work, use the proprietary Mi Assistant utility (formerly Mi PC Suite), which allows you to safely restart your device from Fastboot without the risk of data loss.

1. Download Mi Assistant from the official Xiaomi website and install it on PC.
2. Connect your smartphone to your computer through USB-cable (preferably original).
3. Run Mi Assistant and wait until the program determines the device in Fastboot mode.
4. Press the Exit Fastboot button (or Reboot in newer versions).

If the Mi Assistant can't see the device:

• 🔌 Check the cable and port USB (Try another connector on the PC).
• 🖥️ Install Mi drivers USB Driver manually (you can download here).
• 🔄 Restart your computer and reconnect.

Method 3: Fastboot commands via ADB and Terminal

For power users, the most reliable way is to manually control the command line.

• 🖥️ Computer with Windows/Linux/macOS.
• 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).
• 📥 Utilities. ADB Fastboot (you can download it as part of Android) SDK Platform-Tools).

Instructions:

1. Unpack the archive from the platform-tools into any folder (e.g., C:\adb).
2. Connect your smartphone to your PC and open Command Prompt (or Terminal on macOS/Linux) in this folder.
3. Check if the device is detected: fastboot devices If you see a serial number in response, the connection is established.
4. Run the reboot command: fastboot reboot

If the fastboot reboot command doesn’t work, try alternatives:

• Fastboot Continue: An attempt to continue downloading from the current state.
• fastboot oem reboot-recovery – Reboot to Recovery mode.

⚠️ Warning: Do not use fastboot erase or fastboot flash unless you understand the consequences! this can lead to complete data loss or "bricking" of the device.

Method 4: Flashing through MiFlash (if other methods have not worked)

If your smartphone persists in returning to Fastboot after each reboot, the firmware is likely damaged, in which case a full flashing through the MiFlash Tool will help. This method will reset all data, so use it only as a last resort!

Step-by-step:

1. Download the MiFlash Tool from the official website and install it.
2. Download the firmware for your model (choose the Fastboot version, not Recovery!).Firmware links: Xiaomi Firmware Updater Official MIUI Archive
3. Unpack the archive with firmware in a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\ROM\redmi_note_10).
4. Launch MiFlash, press Select and point the path to the firmware folder.
5. Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode and press Refresh – the device should be determined.
6. Select firmware mode: Clean all – full reset (recommended for critical errors); Clean all and lock – reset + lock the bootloader (if it was unlocked); Save user data – an attempt to save data (not always working).

Flash

5-10 minutes

⚠️ Note: If after firmware the smartphone does not turn on or stuck on the logo MI, Repeat the process with Clean all and lock mode, which may be due to incompatibility of firmware versions.

Method 5: Hardware reset via Test Point (for power users)

If none of the software methods worked, and the smartphone is not defined in MiFlash, the problem may be in the hardware lock, in which case Test Point, a special point on the motherboard, the closure of which resets the device into EDL (Emergency Download Mode) mode, will help.

⚠️ This method requires disassembling your smartphone and risks voiding your warranty! Use it only if you want to use it:

• The device does not respond to buttons and is not defined in Fastboot.
• You are ready for possible data loss.
• You have experience with electronics (or you are ready to use the service).

Instructions for Redmi Note 8/9/10:

1. Turn off your smartphone (if possible) or remove the battery for 10 seconds.
2. Remove the back cover (need a mediator or a special spatula).
3. Find Test Point – usually two metal dots next to the battery connector (see for your model’s exact location!).
4. Close the points with tweezers or a screwdriver and connect at the same time USB-plug-in.
5. Hold the circuit for 5-10 seconds until Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 appears in Device Manager.
6. You can now flash the device through MiFlash in EDL mode.

What do you do if nothing helps?

If all of these methods have failed, the problem may be:

• 🔋 Failed battery – if it is discharged below 5%, the smartphone will not be able to get out of the Fastboot.Plug the charger for 30 minutes and try again.
• 🔌 Damaged. USB-Port – Try another cable or connect via OTG-adapter.
• 🛠️ Hardware breakdown – if the smartphone does not respond to charging and buttons, the motherboard may be damaged (diagnosis is required in the service).

If you suspect a hardware malfunction, contact an authorized Xiaomi service center. the cost of diagnosis is usually 500-1000 rubles, and repair (for example, replacement). USB-from 1500 rubles. before the visit:

• 📋 Write down the serial number of the device (located on the box or under the battery).
• 🔄 Check whether the warranty is saved (if the smartphone is not unlocked and not flashed custom software).

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If your smartphone doesn’t respond to buttons and isn’t detected via USB, don’t try to disassemble it yourself – this can aggravate the breakdown.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Fastboot mode on Xiaomi Redmi