Why Xiaomi is blocking devices and what to do about it
Xiaomi smartphones are among the most secure Android devices on the market, and the manufacturer uses three levels of locking: Mi Account, FRP (Factory Reset Protection), and Bootloader Lock hardware, each of which can turn a gadget into a βbrickβ if you forget your password or bought a used phone with a tied account.
The statistics of service centers show that 37% of the requests to block Xiaomi are related to the purchase of devices βhands-onβ without the previous ownerβs detachment. 28% are users who forgot the data from Mi Account after resetting. The remaining cases are due to software failures, failed firmware or fraud. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods of unlocking, including official and alternative methods.
It's important to understand that not all locks are removed the same way, FRP-The lock (which appears after reset via Recovery) can be bypassed without data loss, but Mi Account on some models (Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO F3) requires mandatory confirmation through SMS We structured the instructions by the type of locks so you could quickly find a solution to your situation.
1 Unblocking Mi Account (official method)
If the phone requires you to enter your username and password from Mi Account after a reset or flash, try the official method first. Xiaomi provides the ability to restore access through a linked email or phone number - but only if you have access to them.
Algorithm of action:
- π± On the lock screen, click Forgot password? (or Forgot password on English firmware).
- π§ Choose the recovery method: email or SMS. The specified address/number will receive a confirmation code.
- π Enter the code and set a new password. If the code doesn't come in, check the Spam folder or request a resubmission.
- π After changing the password, restart the device β the lock should disappear.
β οΈ Attention: On Xiaomi models 12T, Redmi K50 and newer when restored through SMS You may need to enter the backup email you gave when you registered your account, and if you don't remember it, the official method won't work, you can go to alternative methods.
FRP-Blocking (Factory Reset Protection)
FRP-The lock is triggered when you reset your settings via Recovery or Fastboot if your device has Mi Account enabled, and unlike your account binding, you can bypass it without accessing the original data, but only on firmware older than your account. MIUI 13.
Instructions for Redmi 9/9A/9C, POCO M3 and similar models:
- Connect your phone to Wi-Fi on the initial setup screen.
- Go back and select an emergency call.
- Dial the combination: ##4636## β will appear in the test menu.
- Go to Usage statistics β Back β Settings.
- In the settings, disable Find Device and Mi Account, then reset.
β οΈ Attention: MIUI 14+ This method does not work because of the closure of the vulnerability, POCO F5) I'll need a firmware through EDL (We will tell you about it below) or contact the service center.
βοΈ Preparation for bypassing FRP
3. Unlock Bootloader (for firmware and custom software)
If you plan to reflash your phone or install custom Recovery (like TWRP), you first need to unlock Bootloader. Xiaomi lets you do it officially, but the process takes up to 720 hours (30 days) of waiting on new accounts.
Step-by-step:
- Link the device to Mi Account in settings: Settings β About Phone β MIUI version (click 7 times to activate Developer Mode).
- Return to Settings β Additional β For developers and enable OEM Unlock.
- Install Mi Unlock Tool on your PC and log in under the same account.
- Connect your phone in Fastboot mode (press Power + Volβ when you turn off).
- In Mi Unlock Tool, click Unlock. If the account is new, a waiting timer will appear.
| Model | Waiting time to unlock | Whether required SIM-map of the original operator |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 11/11 Pro | 168 hours (7 days) | No. |
| POCO X4 Pro | 720 hours (30 days) | No. |
| Xiaomi 13/13 Pro | 720 hours (30 days) | Yes (for some regions) |
| Black Shark 5 | 336 hours (14 days) | No. |
What happens if you unblock Bootloader?
4 Unlocking through EDL (Emergency Mode)
Regime. EDL (Emergency Download Mode is the last hope for devices with damaged firmware or hard-locked Mi Account, which allows you to flash your phone directly through the Qualcomm 9008 port, bypassing all software protections. EDL (It can be purchased from official Xiaomi partners or in service centers).
What you need:
- π₯οΈ Windows PC 10/11 and Qualcomm drivers HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
- π Firmware in.mbn or.elf format for your model (download from xiaomifirmwareupdater.com).
- π Cable USB-A to USB-A (forced transfer EDL).
- π» Mi Flash Tool or QFil.
β οΈ Note: Incorrect Firmware Through EDL It can be permanently blocked IMEI If you're not sure what you're doing, you can go to the service center. EDL in Russia - 1500-3000 β½.
π‘
Before you run through EDL, disable antivirus β it can block Qualcomm drivers as βsuspicious software.β
5. Alternative methods (for experienced users)
If the official methods didnβt work, you can try workarounds, which are suitable for models on Qualcomm Snapdragon (most Redmi and POCO) and require technical skills.
Method 1: Bypass ADB (operates on MIUI 12 and below):
adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.Settings
adb shell content insert --uri content://settings/secure --bind name:s:user_setup_complete --bind value:s:1After completing these commands, restart the phone β the FRP lock should disappear.
Method 2: Use of Mi Account vulnerability (only for older models):
- π² Install. SIM-map.
- π On the lock screen, click Add Account β Google.
- π Enter any email and password, then go back - sometimes this resets the Mi Account request.
β οΈ Attention: MIUI 14 and later, these methods do not work due to patched vulnerabilities.For Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and other flagships of 2023-2026 alternative methods are useless β will require EDL or official unlocking.
π‘
Bypass methods only work on firmware older than 2022. For newer models, use EDL or a service center.
6 What to do if nothing helps
If you have tried all the options and the phone remains locked, there are three options:
- Contact the Xiaomi service center β official unlocking will cost in 2000β5000 β½, It guarantees the safety of the data (if possible).
- Buy authorized EDL-Account β the cost of forums (for example, 4PDA) starting from 500 β½, But there is a risk of getting caught by fraudsters.
Before visiting the service center:
- π Bring a check or a box from your phone (proof of possession).
- π± Make sure there are no physical damages (cracks, dents) on the device β this may void the warranty.
- π Charge your phone at least 30% β some services charge extra for charging.