Xiaomi Phone Locked: How to Unlock Without Losing Data (7 Ways to Work)

Why Xiaomi is blocked and what to do first

Xiaomi’s phone can get locked for several reasons: you forgot your password, a child accidentally entered the wrong pattern lock 10 times, or the device requires confirmation of your Mi Account account after resetting. 90% of the time, the problem is solvable, but the method of unlocking depends on the type of lock and model of the smartphone.

First rule: don't panic or try to enter passwords at random. After 5-10 failed attempts, many Xiaomi models (especially new ones) automatically require confirmation through Mi Account or are blocked for 24-48 hours. If you remember the data from the account, this makes it easier. If you don't, you will have to use alternative methods, some of which will lead to complete loss of data on the device.

In this article, we will discuss all the current unlock methods for Redmi, POCO and Mi phones (including the models from 2023-2026), starting with the safest methods and ending with radical ones that are used in extreme cases.

1 Unblocking through Mi Account (if an account is linked)

The easiest and most official way is to use a linked Mi Account, which works if:

• 📱 The phone was tied to Xiaomi’s account before being blocked.
• 🔄 The device is enabled mobile Internet or Wi-Fi (for data verification).
• 🔐 You remember the login (email/phone number) and account password.

Instructions:

1. On the lock screen, click Forgot Password? (or Forgot Password?).
2. Choose the recovery method: by SMS, email or through a backup account (if configured).
3. Enter the details from Mi Account and confirm the entry.
4. Follow the instructions of the system – the phone will unlock automatically.

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If you have two-factor authentication (2FA), use the code from the Google Authenticator app or backup codes saved when you set up.

⚠️ Note: If you bought the phone with your hands and the previous owner didn’t untie his Mi Account, this method will not work, in which case you will need to contact the seller or use alternative methods (see section 4).

2. Reset password via Find Device (remote unlock)

If your phone is connected to the Internet and you have access to Mi Account, you can try remotely resetting your password through Find Device, which works even if the device is turned off, but the last time it was supposed to be online.

Step-by-step:

1. Go to i.mi.com and log in.
2. Select a locked phone from the list of devices.
3. Click Find Device → Delete Data (or Erase Device).
4. Confirm the action – the phone will be reset to the factory settings, and the lock will be removed.

🔹 Important: This method erases all data on the phone, including photos, contacts and apps. If the device has backups of Mi Cloud enabled, some of the information can be restored after unlocking.

3. Unlock via Fastboot (for advanced users)

If Mi Account is not tied or you don't remember the data, you can try unlocking your phone via Fastboot mode, USB-It is suitable for most Xiaomi models, except those that are protected. FRP-Factory Reset Protection (Factory Reset Protection).

What you need:

• 💻 Computer with Windows/Linux/macOS.
• 🔌 Original. USB-cable (preferably from the set).
• 📦 The Mi Flash Tool or ADB/Fastboot Tools.
• 🔓 Unlocked bootloader (if not previously unlocked, you will need to wait 7-15 days).

Instructions:

1. Turn off the phone. Press the Power button + Volume down to enter the Fastboot.
2. Connect the phone to the computer.
3. Download and install the Mi Flash Tool.
4. In the command line (on behalf of the administrator), run: fastboot oem unlock If the bootloader is not unlocked, follow the instructions on the screen (it will require binding to Mi Account and waiting).
5. After unlocking the bootloader, swipe the phone with the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.

⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader erases all data on the phone and may result in warranty cancellation.On some models (e.g. Redmi Note 12 or Redmi Note 12 or more). POCO X5) After unlocking the bootloader, you may need to re-attach to the Mi Account.

4. Bypass FRP-lock (if required by Mi Account after reset)

FRP (Factory Reset Protection) is a setting reset protection that is activated if a Mi Account was attached to the phone and then reset via Recovery. Once you reboot, the device will require you to enter the account information that was on it before, and if you don't know this data, you can bypass FRP in several ways.

Ways to bypass FRP on Xiaomi:

TalkBack (for Android 8-10):

1. On the Welcome screen, click Start and hold your finger to any spot on the screen to activate TalkBack.
2. Swipe your two fingers down the screen to open the notification bar.
3. Click on Settings (the gear icon) and hold to open the context menu.
4. Select Application Information → Open Settings → Reset settings.

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Bypassing FRP through system loopholes only works on older versions of Android. On newer models (Android 12+), these methods are often blocked, leaving only firmware through EDL.

5 Unlocking through EDL (Emergency Mode)

EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is a mode for flashing a phone in emergency situations when other methods do not work. It allows you to reflash the device even with a locked bootloader, but requires a special cable (EDL-cable) or short circuit contacts on the board (for experienced users).

⚠️ Attention: Firmware through EDL erases all data and can lead to a blink (complete failure) if the wrong version of the software is selected.+, Xiaomi 13 requires an authorized Mi Account with firmware rights.

Step-by-step:

1. Download the firmware for your model from the Xiaomi Firmware Updater website.
2. Install Qualcomm 9008 drivers (for Snapdragon processors) or MediaTek.
3. Connect your phone to your computer in EDL mode (via a special cable or contact closure).
4. Use the Mi Flash Tool or QFil for firmware.

Download the correct version of the firmware for your model|Install drivers Qualcomm/MediaTek|Prepare. EDL-cable-bar|Backup of important data (if the phone is partially working)|Disable antivirus on your computer (can block firmware)

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6. Contact the Xiaomi Service Center

If all of these methods didn’t work or you’re afraid of damaging your phone, the best option is to contact the official Xiaomi service center, which is especially true for newer models (Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13), where self-unlocking can be difficult due to enhanced protection.

What you need to unlock in the service:

• 📄 Check or warranty card (if the phone is guaranteed).
• 🆔 Passport of the owner (to confirm ownership).
• 🔑 Data from Mi Account if the phone was tied (not necessarily, but will speed up the process).

The cost of unlocking the service varies from 500 to 3000 rubles, depending on the complexity. In some cases (for example, if the motherboard is damaged), repair may be necessary.

🔹 Tip: Before visiting the service center, try to find out from the previous owner the data from the Mi Account - this will save time and money.

7.How to avoid blocking in the future

To avoid having a locked phone problem again, follow these guidelines:

• 🔐 Use a fingerprint or facial recognition in addition to a password.
• 📝 Write your password and Mi Account data to a secure location (for example, a password manager).
• 🔄 Regularly back up through Settings → System system → Backup.
• 🚫 Don’t buy Xiaomi phones from your hands without first resetting your Mi Account by a previous owner.

If you often forget passwords, set up Smart Lock in your security settings, which lets you unlock your phone automatically in trusted places (such as at home or work).

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Turn on the "Find Device" option in the Mi Account settings, which will not only help in case of theft, but also make it easier to unlock through a remote reset.

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Xiaomi