You pick up your Xiaomi Redmi and it says, "Device locked" on the screen? Don't panic, it's a common problem that can be solved without visiting a service center. The reasons for blocking are different: a forgotten pattern lock, too many failed password attempts, binding to a Mi Account account after a reset or even a software failure. In this article, we'll look at all the current ways to unlock Redmi models (including Note, K and POCO series), from simple to advanced - with explanations of what methods can lead to data loss.
It's important to understand that not all locks are the same. For example, a screen lock (PIN, pattern lock) is removed differently than a Mi Account lock (requires proof of ownership), and if the phone is locked after firmware or factory reset, you'll need special tools like the Mi Flash Tool. We structured the instructions by the types of locks so you can quickly find a solution to your situation. Let's start with the most innocuous cases and gradually move on to the complex ones.
1. unlock the screen: forgotten PIN or pattern lock
If you just forgot your screen unlock password, but remember your Mi Account, you won't have any problems. Xiaomi has a regular mechanism for resetting the lock through your linked account. Here's how it works:
- 🔑 Enter any password/key 5 times in a row until the message “Forgot your password?” appears (or “Unblock via Mi Account” appears»).
- 📧 Click on this link and enter email/It's a phone that's tied to the device, and it's going to have a confirmation code.
- 🔄 Enter the code and ask for a new one. PIN/It's done, it's unlocked without losing data!
⚠️ Note: If you don't remember the Mi Account data or the phone isn't connected to the internet, this won't work, so you'll have to move on to a hard reset (see Section 3).
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If after 5 unsuccessful attempts the button “Forgot the password?” does not appear, try connecting the phone to Wi-Fi or mobile Internet – sometimes the system requires authentication through the network.
Redmi models on Android 12+ (like Redmi Note 11/12) may require additional confirmation via SMS or backup email. If you have two-factor authentication enabled, be prepared to enter code from the Mi Security app.
2 Unlocking through Find Device (Mi Cloud)
If your phone is linked to a Mi Account but you can’t enter a password on your device (for example, because of a damaged screen), use the web version of Find Device, which works even if your phone is turned off, as long as it’s connected to the Internet at least once in the last 24 hours.
- Click on “Unlock Device” (or “Unlock” in English).
⚠️ Note: Find Device unlock is not available on all models, such as Redmi. 9A And it's stable and it's running on a budget Redmi Go, and it might not be there. If you don't have the unlock button, try other ways.
| Model Redmi | Support for Unlocking through Find Device | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10/11/12 | ✅ Yes. | Requires confirmation by SMS |
| Redmi 9/9T/9C | ✅ Yes. | You may need a backup email. |
| Redmi 8/8A | ⚠️ Partially. | It only works when GPS is on. |
| Redmi 7/7A and older | ❌ No. | Use other methods |
3 Hard Reset via Recovery Mode
If the previous methods didn’t work, you’ll have to reset your settings completely, which will delete all data from your phone (photos, messages, apps), but will return access to the device, and this manual is suitable for all Redmi models, including POCO and Redmi Note.
Get out. SIM-card and memory card (if any)
Charge your phone at least 30%
Prepare a backup copy (if the phone is turned on somehow)
Make sure you know the data from the Mi Account (required after reset)
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To enter Recovery Mode:
- Turn off the phone (press the power button for 10 seconds).
- Click the combination: For most models: Power button + Volume up. For Redmi 5/5A/6/6A: Power button + Volume up + Volume down.
Mi
Recovery
Wipe Data
Wipe All Data
Reboot
⚠️ Note: On models with a locked bootloader (e.g., the Redmi Note 9 Pro for the European market), after a reset, data entry from the Mi Account that was tied to the phone before the reset may be required. If you do not remember this data, the phone will turn into a “brick” – you can unlock it only through the official Xiaomi service with confirmation of purchase.
What to do if your phone requires an old Mi Account after a reset?
4 Unlocking via Fastboot and Mi Flash Tool
If the phone is locked at the firmware level (for example, after a failed update or reset), you may need to flash through Fastboot. This method is suitable for advanced users, as it requires working with a computer and special utilities.
You'll need:
- 💻 Windows computer (7/10/11).
- 🔌 Cable USB (preferably original).
- 📦 Firmware for your model (you can download on the official website).
- 🛠 Mi Flash Tool (the latest version is available at xiaomiflashtool.com).
Step-by-step:
- Install the Mi Flash Tool and Xiaomi drivers on your PC.
- Turn off the phone and put it into Fastboot mode: Press the power button + volume down for 10 seconds.
- Connect your phone to your PC. The Android Bootloader Interface should appear in the Device Manager.
- In the Mi Flash Tool, click Select and select the unpacked firmware (file with the.tgz extension).
- Press Refresh – the program must detect the phone.
- Select firmware mode: Clean all (removes everything, including locking) Save user data saves data (but may not work when blocking).
Flash
Once you have Fastboot, the phone may require re-activation of Mi Account. If you do not remember the data from an account that was previously associated with the device, it will be impossible to unlock it without contacting the Xiaomi service center with proof of purchase.
5 Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader)
On some Redmi models (especially in the European and global markets), the manufacturer locks the bootloader, which makes it difficult to unlock, and if you see a message "This device is locked" or "Bootloader locked", you will have to officially unlock it.
The process takes up to 72 hours and requires:
- Registration in the Mi Unlock program.
- Linking your phone to your Mi Account (should be linked in advance!)
- Proof of ownership (via SMS or email).
7 What should I do if nothing helps?
If all of these methods fail, there are two options:
- Official Xiaomi service. 📍 Find the nearest center on the map of service centers. 📄 Bring a check, a box and a passport. ⏳ Unblocking period - from 1 to 5 days.
Unofficial services.
There are workshops in major cities that specialize in unlocking Xiaomi through the Internet. EDL-The cost is from 1000 to 3000 rubles. Risks: loss of warranty, installation of unofficial software, data theft.
⚠️ Note: On Redmi models with Qualcomm processor (e.g. Redmi Note 10 Pro) unlock through EDL Requires an authorized Xiaomi account, which only official services have. 9A) The odds are higher, but there is no guarantee of success.