Unlocking the bootloader is the first and most important step for anyone who wants to gain full control of their device. Unlike many other manufacturers, Xiaomi has implemented a strict security system that does not allow you to simply change the system partition.
Putting an unlocked bootloader on Xiaomi means being able to install customized receptacles like TWRP, get Root superuser rights, and install modified firmware. However, this process is not without risks and requires careful adherence to all the instructions steps. If you're ready for experiments, this article will be your main guide.
It's important to understand that the unlocking procedure will inevitably result in the complete deletion of all data from the device. The reset to the factory settings is automatic at the time of unlocking, so backup is critical. We'll look at all the steps from applying to the final connection of the smartphone to the computer.
Why you need to unlock the bootloader on Xiaomi
Many users are wondering if sheepskin is worth making, unlocking the door to a world of deep customization that is not accessible to the average user, you can remove system debris that can not be removed by standard means, and replace the interface with a completely clean Android.
And then, enthusiasts can install the latest versions of Android that the manufacturer has already stopped making for your model, which extends the life of the gadget for several years, but it is worth remembering that with the new features, there are certain limitations in the operation of some features.
- 🔓 Possibility of installing custom recaps and obtaining Root rights for full control of the system.
- 🚀 Installation of global firmware on Chinese versions of smartphones to work with Google services.
- 🎨 Deep personalization of interface, fonts and system animations through modified cores.
And don’t forget downside: some banking apps may stop working or require additional manipulation to bypass security checks. An unlocked bootloader makes the device theoretically more vulnerable to physical access by attackers if it gets into their hands.
Preparation of the device and necessary tools
Before you start taking action, you need to carefully prepare the workspace and software. You need a Windows computer that is working properly. USB-The use of original or quality cable is critical, as poor contact can interrupt the process at the most inopportune time.
The smartphone must have a Mi Account that was linked to the device at least 7 days (168 hours) ago, a mandatory security requirement of the company. If the account is added recently, the system will issue an error indicating the remaining waiting time.
You also need to download the official Mi Unlock Tool from the manufacturer's website, which is the only legal program that can interact with Xiaomi servers and unlock the device, and using third-party scripts can lead to account lock or phone breakdown.
☑️ Checklist before start
⚠️ Warning: Make sure you remember your Mi Account password and screen unlock code. Once the data is reset, login will be impossible and account recovery will be a difficult and lengthy process.
Setting the developer’s parameters on a smartphone
The first technical step is directly on your smartphone. You need to activate the hidden menu for developers. To do this, go to Settings → About your phone and quickly click 7 times on the MIUI Version (or the OS Version in HyperOS), and a notification will appear that you have become a developer.
Next, you'll find the Additional → Developer menu, and you'll need to include two critical settings: OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging, and if you turn on debugging, you'll be alerting them to the risks, you'll agree.
In the same menu, look for Mi Unlock Status. Click on it and connect the device to your account. The phone may require a Wi-Fi or mobile network connection to check status. If all goes well, you'll see a link message.
💡
If the "Mi Unlock Status" item requires insertion SIM-maps, make sure you do it. SIM-Mobile Internet cards linking the account to the device often does not pass.
Take your time after the peg. As mentioned earlier, wait 7 days (168 hours) during which time, don't log out of your phone account or reset your settings. If the timer resets, the wait starts again.
Unlocking process with Mi Unlock Tool
When the wait period has expired, you can go to your computer. Start the Mi Unlock Tool and log in to the same Mi Account that was tied on the phone. Now you need to put the smartphone into a special mode of operation - Fastboot.
Turn off the phone completely. Then press the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously. Hold them until the Fastboot logo appears. Connect the phone to your PC via the Fastboot logo. USB-cable.
Entry mode: Phone off + Downside Volume + Power
Indication: Fastboot logo (hare with android)In Mi Unlock, click Unlock, the system will check the status of the device, the Android version and the account binding. If all conditions are met, a warning will appear that all data will be deleted. Confirm the action.
It takes from a few seconds to a few minutes, and at that time, the phone will reboot, and the screen can display the progress bar. Don't turn off the cable or press the buttons.
| Status on the programme | Meaning | User actions |
|---|---|---|
| Unlocking: 0% | Start of the process | Wait, don't touch the cable. |
| Unlocking: 50-99% | It's a change record. | categorically not interrupt |
| Unlocked successfully | Successful unlocking | You can turn it off and tune it. |
| Error: Wait 72 hours | Timer error | Wait for the time specified |
💡
The successful completion of the process is confirmed by the message "Unlocked successfully" and automatic restart of the phone with the cleaning of all data.
Solving errors and problems when unlocking
The most common error is the Error 10003 or the message that "Couldn't verify device." This is often due to unstable Internet or problems on Xiaomi servers. Try using mobile Internet instead of Wi-Fi or vice versa.
Another common problem is the error "Current account is different from the account info on the device." This means that you logged in on a computer from one account and a phone was linked to another. Check the login login to the Mi Unlock Status menu on your smartphone.
If the program says "Wait 72 hours" (or 168 hours), then it's not enough time since the account was linked. No tambourine dancing is going to help here, you just have to wait. Trying to bypass the timer can lead to a lockdown of the unlock function for this device.
⚠️ Warning: If you see an anti-rollback error, do not try to stitch through old firmware versions. This can lead to a "fixing" of the device that cannot be restored software.