How to install TWRP on Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T: a complete guide to unlock the bootloader

Why TWRP on the Redmi Note 8T is not a luxury, but a necessity for advanced users

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8T (codenamed willow) is still a popular device among customization enthusiasts, despite the release of new models. Installing the TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) gives access to features that the manufacturer has hidden, from creating full backups of the system to firmware custom software like LineageOS or Pixel Experience. But there is a caveat: without an unlocked bootloader and the correct version of the recaveri, you risk getting a brick instead of a work phone.

In this article, the guide is up to date for 2026, taking into account changes in Xiaomi’s bootloader unlock policy and the features of MIUI 14/15. We will analyze each step: from preparing the PC to the final TWRP firmware, and also tell you how to avoid typical errors (for example, hanging on the Mi logo or triggering anti-rollback). If you are a beginner, do not miss the sections about backup and firmware compatibility!

⚠️ Warning: The procedure voids the warranty and may result in data loss.On some versions of the Redmi Note 8T (for example, with a processor MTK Helio G80 Snapdragon 665 requires additional drivers. → The phone. → Version. MIUI.

Step 0: Compatibility check and tool preparation

Before you start, make sure your Redmi Note 8T is suitable for TWRP installation.

• 🔍 Device code name: Must be willow (check in Settings) → The phone. → The device called ginkgo (Redmi Note 8) is incompatible!
• 📱 Version. MIUI: Current assemblies TWRP work MIUI 12-15. For older versions (MIUI 11 and below) patches may be required.
• 🔌 Battery charge: At least 70%. When discharged during firmware, the phone can go into mode EDL, What will require service equipment for recovery.
• 💻 PC operating system: Windows 10/11 (for Linux/Mac Additional drivers and commands will be required).

Download and prepare the following files (links are valid for June 2026):

⚠️ Attention: If you download TWRP from third-party sources (not from twrp.me), check the hash file through SHA-256. Fake builds may contain malicious code. 3.7.0_12-0: a1b2c3... (check on the website TWRP).

Step 1: Unlock the bootloader via the Mi Unlock Tool

Xiaomi locks the bootloader on all devices, so the first step is unlocking it.The process takes between 72 hours and 1 week because of the company's security policy.

1. Link your Mi Account to your phone: 📱 Go to Settings. → Xiaomi account and log in. 🔗 Enable data synchronization and confirm the phone number. 🔒 Activate the Settings option → Additionally. → For developers → Unlocking OEM (If not, go 7 times to the version. MIUI, to enable the developer mode).

Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode:

• 🔌 Turn off the phone, then press the power. + Vol− before the appearance of the Fastboot logo.
• 💻 Connect. USB-port USB 2.0 (USB 3.0 can cause errors).
• Launch Mi Unlock Tool: 1. Open Mi Unlock Tool on behalf of the administrator. 2. Sign in to the same Mi Account as your phone. 3. Follow the program instructions. If you see the message "Wait 168 hours" - wait.

🔹 Typical errors and decisions:

• ❌ Couldn't unlock → Check what's in the Settings → Mi Account → Mi Cloud is enabled synchronization.
• ❌ Device not connected → Install Google Drivers USB Driver or try another cable.
• ❌ Wait 360 hours → If you have previously unlocked the bootloader on this account, wait or use another account.

Linked to Mi Account on phone

Mi Cloud synchronization enabled

Developer mode and OEM Unlock activated

Phone in Fastboot mode

Mi Unlock Tool Launched by Administrator-->

Step 2: Install TWRP via Fastboot

Once the bootloader is unlocked, you can proceed to the TWRP firmware. Important: use the official build for willow, as the generic versions may not support data encryption (FBE).

Instructions:

1. Download and rename the file TWRP: 📁 Rename the downloaded file to twrp.img And put it in a folder. C:\platform-tools\.

Open the command line in the folder with ADB:

• 🖱️ Hold the Shift. + PCM in the platform-tools folder and select "Open the command window".
• Please. TWRP: fastboot flash recovery twrp.img fastboot boot twrp.img ⚠️ Note: If after the command fastboot boot phone is stuck on the Mi logo, then you have installed MIUI In this case, first, run the orbital patch (see the section "Problem Solving").

⚠️ Note: Data backup can weigh 10–30GB. If there is not enough space on the memory card, transfer the backup to your PC immediately after creation. TWRP.

💡

Backup in TWRP is the only way to restore the phone if it stops booting after running custom software. Don't miss this step!

Step 5: Firmware custom software through TWRP

Now that TWRP is installed, you can flash custom firmware, cores, or modifications. However, there are important nuances for the Redmi Note 8T:

• 🔧 Formatting: If you are moving from MIUI on caste (for example, LineageOS), be sure to format /data, /system and /cache into TWRP.

Example of Pixel Experience firmware:

1. Download the firmware from the official website.
2. Move it. ZIP-file.
3. V TWRP Choose Install → Select a file → Swipe to Confirm Flash.
4. After firmware, run Wipe → Format Data (if required) and restart.

🔹 Warning: Firmware of informal assemblies (e.g. from forums) can lead to sensor issues (gyroscope, NFC) or modem (no network) Check user reviews before installing.

Step 6: Restore the standard Recaveri (if necessary)

If you decide to go back to the standard MIUI recap (for example, for air updates), do the following:

1. Download the original recovery.img for your MIUI version from the Xiaomi Firmware Updater website.
2. Reboot your phone to Fastboot (Power + Vol−).
3. Fastboot flash recovery recovery.img fastboot reboot

⚠️ Note: After returning to the standard recavery, you will lose the ability to load into the TWRP If you're planning on using custom firmware any longer, leave it. TWRP.

FAQ: Frequent questions on TWRP on the Redmi Note 8T