Xiaomi devices (including Mi, Redmi, and Poco phones) come with their own security feature similar to Google's FRP and Apple's iCloud Activation Lock: the Mi Account Reactivation Lock. If "Find device" was enabled, after a factory reset, the phone will require the Mi Account ID and password it was previously linked to. This guide helps you understand and navigate this lock.
What is Xiaomi's Mi Account Reactivation Lock?
When you sign into a Mi Account on your Xiaomi device and enable the "Find device" feature within Mi Cloud settings, it activates a reactivation lock. This means if the device is factory reset (especially through recovery mode or other untrusted methods), it will demand the credentials of that Mi Account before it can be set up and used again.
The screen will typically say "This device is locked" or "This device may be associated with an existing Mi Account" and ask for the Mi Account password.
Why Does This Lock Exist?
- Anti-Theft: To deter thieves by making a stolen phone harder to use or resell.
- Data Protection: To prevent unauthorized access to the device even after a wipe.
Common Scenarios Leading to Mi Account Lock
- Buying a used Xiaomi phone where the previous owner didn't sign out of their Mi Account.
- Forgetting your own Mi Account password after resetting your device.
- Resetting the phone without realizing "Find device" was active.
Methods to Remove Xiaomi Mi Account Reactivation Lock
1. Official Method: Mi Account Password Recovery
If the device is locked to your own Mi Account, the first step is to try recovering your password:
- Visit the Xiaomi Account recovery page: https://account.xiaomi.com/pass/forgetPassword.
- Enter your Mi Account ID (this can be an email address, phone number, or a numerical ID).
- Follow the instructions to verify your identity (often via email or SMS code sent to a registered recovery option) and reset your password.
Once you have the correct password, enter it on your locked Xiaomi device.
Tip: If you can't remember your Mi Account ID, try any email addresses or phone numbers you might have used when setting up the device. Sometimes, the lock screen itself might show a partially obscured Mi Account ID as a hint.
2. Contacting the Previous Owner (for Used Devices)
If you've purchased a used Xiaomi phone that's locked, the most ethical approach is to contact the seller. They can remove the device from their Mi Account remotely:
- The seller needs to log in to their Mi Cloud account: https://i.mi.com.
- Go to "Find device."
- Select the locked device from their list.
- Choose "Turn off Find device" or "Remove device" (options might vary slightly).
After the previous owner has done this, restart your Xiaomi phone. It should no longer ask for the Mi Account during setup.
3. Xiaomi's Official Unlock Application (Proof of Purchase Required)
In some cases, if you are the legitimate owner and have valid proof of purchase (e.g., an official invoice showing the device's IMEI/Serial number and your name), Xiaomi support *may* be able to assist in unlocking the device. This usually involves:
- Contacting Xiaomi customer support through their official website.
- Explaining the situation and providing the necessary documentation.
- The process can be lengthy and is not guaranteed, as Xiaomi has strict criteria.
4. Professional Mi Account Unlocking Services
If the above methods are not feasible (e.g., the previous owner is uncontactable, you don't have the specific proof of purchase Xiaomi requires, or you can't recover your account), professional unlocking services like Easy Unlock may offer solutions for Mi Account lock removal.
- How it works: These services often use specialized, server-based methods that can remove the Mi Account lock for eligible devices. This typically requires the device's IMEI or a specific lock code displayed on the activation screen.
- Benefits: Can be effective for a wide range of Xiaomi models, even with recent security updates. Reputable services offer a safer alternative to risky DIY software.
- Considerations: Always opt for trusted and well-reviewed services. Be wary of instant, too-good-to-be-true offers. Ethical services will not process requests for devices that are reported lost or stolen (often verifiable through other IMEI checks).
Warning: The internet has many unofficial tools and patched firmware files claiming to bypass Mi Account locks. Using these can be dangerous, potentially leading to a bricked device, malware infection, or loss of device functionality (like OTA updates). Exercise extreme caution.
How to Avoid Mi Account Lock When Selling Your Xiaomi Phone
To ensure the buyer doesn't face this issue:
- Back up your data.
- Sign out of your Mi Account: Go to Settings > Mi Account > Sign out. Ensure "Find device" is turned off *before* or during sign-out.
- Remove your Google Account as well (for FRP).
- Perform a factory reset from the phone's Settings menu.
Conclusion
Xiaomi's Mi Account Reactivation Lock is a strong security measure. If you find yourself locked out, start with official recovery methods or contact the previous owner. For more complex situations, professional unlocking services can provide a reliable pathway to regaining access to your device. Always prioritize methods that ensure your device's security and integrity.
Need help with a Mi Account lock? Check out Easy Unlock's services for Android devices for professional support.