How to get out of developer mode on Xiaomi: 5 proven ways

Developer mode on Xiaomi smartphones is a powerful tool for fine-tuning the system, but often users activate it accidentally or forget to turn it off. Left on, it not only clutters the menu with unnecessary items, but also creates security risks, from accidental changes to critical parameters to vulnerabilities for malware. In this article, we will discuss why it is important to deactivate developer mode when it is really necessary, and how to do it correctly on any Xiaomi device, Redmi or POCO – from budget models to flagships.

We warn you right away: the process of disconnecting depends on the version of MIUI and the phone model. On new firmware (for example, MIUI 14/15 based on Android 13/14), the algorithm differs from the old versions (MIUI 12 and below). We will look at all current methods, including hidden chips and workarounds for cases when the standard method does not work.

Why is it better to turn off the developer mode?

Many users mistakenly believe that the developer mode that is enabled is harmless if not used, but it is not. Here are the key reasons why it should be deactivated:

• 🔓 Security vulnerabilities: The mode opens access to system settings that can be used by attackers through phishing applications or malicious scripts.
• ⚙️ Unstable operation: Accidental change of parameters (e.g., Do Not Save Actions or Background Processes) leads to lags, overheating or rapid battery discharge.
• 📱 Interface clutter: in the Settings menu, unnecessary items appear that prevent quick access to the desired options.
• 🔄 Update issues: on some Xiaomi devices, the developer mode blocks automatic firmware updates.

Important: On devices with an unlocked bootloader, the developer mode can lead to a loss of warranty if critical parameters have been changed (for example, in it, OEM Unlock or USB-debugging).

There are exceptions, however, for example, if you use ADB-commands to back up or debug applications, the developer mode will have to leave on. In such cases, we recommend at least disabling unnecessary options inside it (we will talk about this in one of the following sections).

Method 1: Standard Disconnection through Settings (MIUI 12 and later)

It is the easiest and most secure method that works on most modern Xiaomi, Redmi and other devices. POCO firmware MIUI 12 and above. The instructions are suitable for models like Xiaomi 13 Pro, Redmi Note 12 or POCO F5.

1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon on the home screen or in the application menu).
2. Scroll down and select About Phone (on some devices – About Device).
3. Find the MIUI version string and tap it 7 times in a row, and the system can request a password or a pattern lock.
4. After the notification appears, you are no longer a developer!

If nothing happens after 7 taps, check:

• 🔍 You're just tapping the Version. MIUI, not other items (e.g., the device model).
• 🔒 You do not have the function Protection against accidental clicks in the settings of special features.
• 📱 The device is not in power saving mode (can block system actions).

Note: Some devices (e.g. Xiaomi Mi 11 with MIUI 13) may miss the Developer Settings option after deactivating the Developer Mode. This is normal – it is automatically hidden.

Method 2: Disconnect by resetting (if the standard method does not work)

If you repeatedly click on the MIUI version, the developer mode does not turn off, the cause may be a failure in the system files, in which case a partial reset will help - it does not affect user data (photos, contacts, applications), but returns system parameters to factory values.

Here's how to do it:

1. Go to Settings → System and device → Additional → Resetting.
2. Select Reset all settings (not to be confused with Delete all data!).
3. Confirm the action by entering a password or pattern lock.
4. After the reboot, check for the availability of the item For developers in the settings - it should not be.

Warning: ⚠️ If you use a device-associated Mi Account (like Find Device), you may need to re-authorize after a reset!

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Before resetting, back up through Settings → System & Device → Backup. This will save your SMS, call log and Wi-Fi settings.

Method 3: Disconnect via ADB (for power users)

If the first two methods don’t work, you can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB) — This is a computer debugging tool, and it's suitable for unlocked devices. USB-Debugging and installed Xiaomi drivers.

You'll need:

• 💻 Computer with Windows/macOS/Linux.
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).
• 📦 Installed Xiaomi drivers and package ADB Tools.

Instructions:

1. Turn it on. USB-Debugging in the developer settings (if not already activated).
2. Connect your phone to your computer and confirm your trust in the device.
3. Open the command line (or terminal) and type: adb shell settings put global development_settings_enabled 0
4. Reboot the phone. The developer box should disappear.

Attention: ⚠️ Misuse ADB If you are not sure about your actions, you should contact the service center.

Method 4: Disconnecting via Safe Mode

If the developer mode is turned on due to a virus or firmware failure, it can be disabled via Safe Mode, which only downloads system applications, which blocks the malware from acting.

How to log in to Safe Mode:

1. Press the power button before the turn off menu appears.
2. Press and hold the “Off” option (or “Reboot” on some models).
3. Confirm the safe mode entry (the Safe Mode will appear on the screen).

Next:

• 🔧 Go to Settings. → The phone. → Version. MIUI and try to disable the developer mode in the standard way (7 taps).
• 🔍 If you don’t, check the list of installed apps for suspicious programs (such as names like Dev Tools or System Hack).
• 🗑️ Remove unnecessary apps and restart your phone as normal.

Key conclusion:

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Safe Mode is the only way to disable the developer mode if it has been activated by a virus or third-party software. Once the device is cleaned, the standard method (7 taps on the MIUI version) should work.

Method 5: Manual editing of system files (for advanced ones)

This method is only suitable for users with root rights or custom firmware (such as LineageOS), which involves direct modification of system files, which can lead to the failure of the device in case of an error.

If you do decide, follow the instructions:

1. Install a file manager with root support (such as Root Explorer or Solid Explorer).
2. Go to: /data/data/com.android.providers.settings/databases/settings.db
3. Open the settings.db file in the editor SQL and find a line: development_settings_enabled
4. Change the value from 1 to 0.
5. Save the changes, restart the device.

Warning: ⚠️ Changing system files without a backup can cause data loss or a device blink.This method is recommended only for advanced users.

What if after disabling the developer mode, functions disappeared?

Sometimes users are faced with the fact that after deactivation of the developer mode, some functions cease to work: for example, USB-Debugging for connecting to a PC or Permission OEM It's because these options are tied to the developer mode.

Decisions:

• 🔄 Temporarily turn the mode back on: activate it again (7 taps on Version) MIUI), Set the necessary parameters, then turn off.
• 🔧 Use alternative methods: for example, to transfer files over the USB instead USB-debugging, use the mode MTP (selected when connecting the cable).
• 📱 Check your security settings: some features (e.g., permission) OEM) can be blocked by the manufacturer after disabling the developer mode, in this case, only unlocking the bootloader through the official Xiaomi tool will help.

If you are critically important to one of the features of the developer mode (for example, to work with ADB or custom firmware), leave it on, but:

• 🔒 Disable unnecessary options within the Developer Menu (e.g., Don’t Turn Off Screen or Background Processes).
• 🛡️ Install a reliable antivirus (such as Bitdefender or Kaspersky) to protect against exploits.
• 🔄 Regularly check the list of installed applications for suspicious programs.

FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi developer mode