Smartphone failures are much more common than we think. During its useful life, a wide variety of errors can occur. Several of these have a pretty simple solution, others take more time and effort to solve. However, there are certain failures that can become irreversible.

Many Android users choose to install a ROM (Operating system and other files that make the device start and work) on their mobile to get custom or more advanced features Of which, for example, Xiaomi offers us with MIUI.

While it is possible to customize everything in the mobile system software, you should know that the slightest mistake can lead to dire consequences. Such is the case of “Brick” Or”Breaking”, A fault that can represent a serious problem.

What is a brick on Android?

“Brick” or “Bricking” is an Anglo-Saxon term that translates as “Brick”. It is used by users, both Android and iOS, to refer to the state of a mobile device or tablet that has suffered severe software damage of the team.

It is characterized by being the black mobile screen and physical buttons do not respond. The mobile is not able to access the desktop, does not turn on or remains in a eternal boot cycle. In other words, the device is rendered unusable.

On the other hand, there is also the term “Semi-brick”, Which is used to refer to a serious failure in the system software. However, compared to a Brick, a semi-brick can be repaired or solved. Unfortunately, it should be noted that most of the time the Brick is much more frequent.

What are the causes of Brick?

The cause of the brick in an Android device can be very varied, and the possible solution will depend on what causes it. Sometimes the only solution is one determined by the manufacturer. Next, we are going to mention the most common causes of Brick.

  • When a modification in bootloader (Bootloader), or on the system partition, or other delicate components of the software, there is a risk of bricking.
  • A Brick can also be presented by error during an update. This can be presented through an automatic or manual download.
  • The presence of a malicious malware It can also cause the mobile device to be like a brick, that is, inert and without intelligence.
  • When you do root access (Process by which you can access the root directory of the device, where the operating system is located) with inappropriate methods.

Any Android device can be prone to a system failure that generates a Brick. It does not matter if your mobile is Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei or any other brand. For this reason, users are strongly advised not to carry out modifications on their smartphone.

How to fix a Brick on your Xiaomi?

As mentioned above, in many cases the only possible solution is to go to the manufacturer for repair. You can make use of your guarantee to deal with the costs. On the other hand, you also have the option of taking the device to a specialist for a check-up.

However, if it is a semi-brick, you may be able to find a solution from home. Of course, a minimum of knowledge in the area is needed to carry them out.

For example, if the failure is boot-related, simply restoring the boot partition and other related files. If the problem is due to the absence of drivers (device drivers) or the ROM, there is also a possibility of recovering the terminal. Here we provide you with some recommendations that may be useful.

1. Perform a factory reset

During a brick-and-mortar, it is impossible to access the device settings. For that reason, it is recommended to enter recovery mode. (Recovery Mode). The process varies by device.

In the case of Xiaomi you must restart the mobile. Hold down the power button and select the “Restart” option. During reboot, press the “Volume Up” and “Power” keys simultaneously.

The main menu appears on the screen with three options: Reboot, Wipe Data, and Connect with MiAssistant. The first corresponds to restarting the phone in recovery mode. This reboot can fix any corrupted files in the software.

2. Perform a Hard Reset

The option “Wipe Data“Corresponds to the option of”Hard reset”. It translates as “Hard reset” and receives that name because it is used to remove all additional settings from the mobile. The device will remain as is as the first time it was turned on.

To carry out this process we must follow the same steps as the previous case.

3. Reset the drivers

A bricked mobile, sometimes still can respond if connect to computer via USB. Of course, if there is no fault or short present in the hardware.

4. Use fastboot

Fastboot is another method of starting the device. It is recommended to install or update MIUI versions from a computer. You need the program MiFlashTool from Xiaomi to work in this mode. It is available for Windows 7 onwards. You can enter Fastboot by pressing the “Power” and “Volume Down” buttons simultaneously.

The other Android devices have their own flashing program available for the computer. Once you have installed the corresponding software, you will need to find a Stock ROM (operating system image) to copy it to the device terminal.

5. Reinstalling the firmware

Reinstalling the firmware (Software that provides low-level control) of the device is another alternative to regain control of a bricked mobile. However, this procedure can be much more complex for the user with basic notions.

It is essential to download the firmware that corresponds to the model number and build number. This requires suitable software, such as ADB 15 seconds.

6. Discharged battery

Some specialists recommend let the phone lose its full charge so that the Flash Tool software can work properly. This process will likely take a couple of days.