Resetting your MI 4 can seem daunting, but it’s a valuable skill that can breathe new life into your smartphone. Whether you’re experiencing software issues or preparing to pass the device to someone else, knowing how to reset your MI 4 correctly is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various methods to reset your MI 4 device, explain the implications of each method, and provide tips on data backup and recovery.
Understanding the Need to Reset
Before diving into the reset process, it’s essential to understand when and why you might need to reset your MI 4. Here are a few key scenarios:
Common Reasons for Resetting MI 4
- Performance Issues: If your device is sluggish, freezing, or unexpectedly crashing, a reset can often resolve these issues.
- Software Glitches: Bugs or glitches in the system may necessitate a reset to restore functionality.
- Preparing for Sale: Resetting your phone ensures that all your personal data is erased before transferring ownership.
Types of Resets for MI 4
There are primarily two types of resets you can perform on your MI 4: a soft reset and a hard reset. Understanding the difference between these can help you choose the right method for your situation.
Soft Reset
A soft reset is a troubleshooting step for many minor issues. This method does not erase any data and is as simple as restarting your device.
Steps to Perform a Soft Reset
- Press and hold the power button until you see a menu on the screen.
- Tap on “Reboot” or “Restart.”
- Wait for the device to restart.
Hard Reset
A hard reset, or factory reset, will wipe all data from your device and restore it to its original factory settings. This method is useful for severe performance issues, or when you’re preparing to sell or give away your phone.
How to Hard Reset Your MI 4
There are two primary ways to perform a hard reset on the MI 4: using the Settings menu and using hardware buttons. Each method has its own advantages, and we’ll explore each in detail.
Method 1: Resetting via Settings Menu
This method is straightforward and can be done directly from your device, provided it is operational enough to access the settings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reset via Settings
- Back Up Your Data: Before starting the reset process, ensure you back up any important data since this step will erase everything on your device. Use cloud services or external storage to save your contacts, photos, and documents.
- Open Settings: Unlock your MI 4 and find the ‘Settings’ app.
- Select Additional Settings: Scroll down and tap on ‘Additional Settings.’
- Go to Backup & Reset: Here, you will find ‘Backup & Reset’ options.
- Choose Factory Data Reset: Tap on ‘Factory data reset’ to proceed.
- Confirm Your Action: You will see a warning notifying you of what will be erased. If you’re ready to continue, tap on ‘Reset phone.’
- Enter Password if Needed: For security purposes, if you have set up any type of password or PIN, input it when prompted.
- Wait for the Reset Process: The device will begin resetting, and this may take several minutes.
- Reboot Your Device: Once the reset is complete, it will automatically reboot.
Method 2: Resetting Using Hardware Buttons
If your MI 4 is unresponsive or you cannot access the settings menu, you can perform a hard reset using the hardware buttons.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reset Using Hardware Buttons
- Power Off Your MI 4: If the phone is on, press and hold the power button until you see the Power Off option, then select it.
- Enter Recovery Mode: Once powered off, press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously until the MI logo appears. Release the buttons when the MI Recovery screen shows.
- Navigate in Recovery Mode: Use the Volume buttons to navigate through the options and the Power button to select.
- Choose Wipe Data: Select ‘Wipe Data’ (this may also be labeled as ‘Factory Reset’).
- Confirm Your Choice: The device will prompt you to confirm your selection. Use the Power button to select ‘Yes’ to proceed.
- Reboot Your Device: After the process is completed, navigate back to the main recovery menu and select ‘Reboot System Now.’
Post-Reset Setup
Once your device has been reset, you’ll go through the setup process just like when it was new.
Initial Steps After Reset
- Language Selection: After the reset, you will need to choose your preferred language.
- Wi-Fi Connection: Connect to a Wi-Fi network for software updates and to restore data.
- Google Account Login: If you previously associated your MI 4 with a Google account, you’ll need to log in to restore backed-up data.
Restoring Your Data
If you followed the backup steps before performing the reset, your next task is to restore your data. You can use:
- Cloud Backup: If you used Google or MI cloud services, simply follow the prompts to restore your data during the setup process.
- Manual Restore: If you have manually saved your files on external storage, reconnect it and copy your data back onto the device.
Key Considerations When Resetting Your MI 4
While resetting your MI 4 can rectify many issues, there are few considerations to keep in mind:
Data Loss
A hard reset is irreversible, so always ensure that you back up important data before proceeding. Once the data is wiped, it cannot be recovered unless backed up externally.
Device Security Features
If you’re selling or giving your phone away, remember that some MI devices have security features like FRP (Factory Reset Protection). This means you may need to enter the credentials of the Google account linked to the device after the reset. Ensure you know this information before performing a hard reset.
Conclusion
Resetting your MI 4 is a valuable troubleshooting step or an essential action if you plan to pass the device on. Whether you opt for a hard reset or a soft reset, the methods are simple to execute. Remember to back up critical data before starting the reset process, and that after the reset, you’ll have the opportunity to set up your device as if it were fresh out of the box.
Now that you are equipped with this comprehensive guide, you should feel confident in tackling the reset process of your MI 4. Enjoy the enhanced performance and fresh experience your device will provide after a successful reset!
What is a factory reset for the MI 4?
A factory reset, also known as a hard reset, is a process that restores your MI 4 to its original system state. This means all data, apps, and settings that you have added will be erased, and the device will revert to the configuration it had when you first purchased it. This process is often undertaken to resolve software issues or when preparing the device for sale or transfer.
Additionally, a factory reset can free up storage space and improve your device’s performance by clearing out accumulated data that may slow down the operating system. However, it’s crucial to back up any important files, photos, or information before proceeding with a factory reset, as all data will be permanently deleted.
How can I back up my data before resetting my MI 4?
To back up your data on the MI 4, you can use several methods. One of the easiest ways is to use Mi Cloud, which allows you to back up your contacts, messages, call logs, and other critical data. To enable this, go to the Settings menu, locate the Mi Account section, and log in or create a new account if you haven’t done so. Once logged in, turn on the backup options for what you want to save.
Alternatively, you can back up your data manually by transferring files to a computer or using other cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox. For photos and videos, consider using Google Photos, which automatically uploads your media to the cloud. Once your data is securely backed up, you can confidently reset your device without worrying about losing important information.
What steps do I need to follow to reset my MI 4?
To reset your MI 4, start by navigating to the Settings app on your home screen. Once in Settings, scroll down and tap on ‘Additional settings.’ From there, look for the ‘Backup & reset’ option. In this menu, you will find the ‘Factory data reset’ option. Tapping on it will present you with a warning about the data that will be erased, as well as the option to reset the device.
After reviewing the information, if you wish to proceed, tap on ‘Reset phone.’ You may be prompted to enter your security credentials, such as a PIN or password. Once you’ve done so, confirm the reset process. The device will then initiate the procedure and might take a few minutes to complete. After it’s done, your MI 4 will restart and be ready to set up as if it were new.
Will all my installed apps be deleted after the reset?
Yes, all installed apps will be deleted when you perform a factory reset on your MI 4. This includes third-party applications you downloaded from the Google Play Store and any configuration settings associated with those apps. A factory reset restores the device to its original state, so it will only retain the apps that came pre-installed by the manufacturer.
If you want to keep your apps for future use, make sure to back up any necessary data or settings within those applications before resetting. Once you complete the reset process, you will have to reinstall your apps manually, which can be done through the Google Play Store by searching for each app you want and reinstalling them.
Can I reset my MI 4 if I forget my password?
Yes, you can reset your MI 4 even if you forget your password, but doing so will erase all the data on the device. This method involves performing a hard reset through recovery mode, which does not require access to the operating system or its settings. To do this, start by powering off your device completely. Once turned off, press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously until the Mi logo appears.
After the logo shows up, you will enter recovery mode. From here, use the volume buttons to navigate the menu and select ‘Wipe data/factory reset’ using the Power button. Confirm your choice, and the device will begin the factory reset process. Once completed, you can reboot the device, and it will be restored to its original factory settings.
Is there any risk involved in resetting my MI 4?
Performing a factory reset on your MI 4 is generally a safe process; however, it does come with certain risks. The main risk is the potential loss of data. If you forget to back up important files, photos, or contacts, they will be permanently deleted after the reset. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure you have secured all necessary data before proceeding.
Another risk involves the possibility of misconfiguring your device after the reset. Once the factory settings are restored, you will need to reinstall and set up your apps, which can be time-consuming. Depending on your skills, you may also need to adjust various settings again for optimal device performance and personal preferences.
How can I restore my data after resetting my MI 4?
After you reset your MI 4 and set it up as new, restoring your data is quite straightforward if you backed it up beforehand. If you used Mi Cloud, simply log into your Mi Account during the setup process and select the option to restore data. This allows you to retrieve your contacts, messages, and other settings that were previously saved in the cloud.
If you opted for Google Drive or other methods to back up data, you can also restore your information by signing into your Google account after the reset. This will enable you to access your previously installed apps and download them again directly from the Play Store. Remember to also manually transfer any files you saved on your computer back to your MI 4.
What should I do if the reset doesn’t solve my device issues?
If resetting your MI 4 does not resolve the issues you are experiencing, it may indicate a hardware problem rather than a software one. In such cases, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. You can visit an authorized service center or contact customer support for troubleshooting. They will have the tools and expertise to diagnose any hardware malfunctions that may be affecting your device.
Another option is to check for system updates that may fix bugs or vulnerabilities affecting performance. Sometimes, issues can be resolved with software patches released by the manufacturer. Ensure you are running the latest version of MIUI by going to the Settings menu and selecting ‘About phone,’ followed by ‘System updates.’ Keeping your device updated can often prevent recurring problems.