How to become a developer for Xiaomi: from unlocking the bootloader to publishing applications

Xiaomi ecosystem is not only smartphones and smart gadgets, but also an open platform for developers who want to create unique solutions: from custom firmware to applications for mobile devices. MIUI However, the journey from a regular user to a full-fledged developer under the Xiaomi brand requires not only technical skills, but also an understanding of the company’s specific rules. In this article, we will analyze all the stages - from unlocking the bootloader to publishing your own projects in the Mi App Store, as well as tell about the pitfalls faced by beginners.

It’s important to understand that Xiaomi’s development is different from other Android devices, with its own tools (like the Mi Flash Tool), limitations (the default closed loader), and even a dedicated developer loyalty program, the Xiaomi Developer Program. If you’re dreaming of building your own firmware for Redmi Note 12 or adapting an app to the Xiaomi Pad 6, this guide will help you avoid mistakes and save hours of search.

We won’t go into the basic concepts of programming (there are separate courses for this), but let’s assume you’re already familiar with the basics. Java/Kotlin Or Python, you know how to work with it. ADB If you don't, don't worry, because there are links to resources for beginners, and let's start with the most difficult and necessary step, which is unlocking the bootloader.

1. Unlock the bootloader: why it is necessary and how to do it correctly

The bootloader is locked by default on all Xiaomi devices, a security measure that protects users from installing uncertified software, but also blocks access to low-level features needed for development.

• 🔧 Install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience, etc.).
• 🛠️ Recovery of modified recovery (TWRP, OrangeFox).
• 📱 Test your own Magisk cores or modules.
• 🔍 Get full access to the system logs through ADB.

The unlocking process is officially supported by Xiaomi, but has a number of nuances:

⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader resets the device to factory settings and cancels the warranty (in some regions), and Google Pay and Widevine may stop working after unlocking. L1 (downgrad L3), What will make streaming on Netflix or Disney worse?+.

To unlock the bootloader, follow the following steps:

1. Link your Mi Account to your device: Go to Settings → Xiaomi account → Mi Cloud and enable synchronization.
2. Activate Developer Mode: Open Settings → About the phone and 7 times click on the version MIUI.
3. Enable OEM Unlock and USB Debugging in Settings → Additional → For Developers.
4. Install the official Mi Unlock Tool utility on Windows PC (for Linux/Mac You will need a virtual machine).
5. Connect the device in fastboot mode (clip Volume down) + Meals and follow the instructions in the Mi Unlock Tool.

Note: Xiaomi has introduced a lock limit – after linking an account to a device, you have to wait 7 days (168 hours), this rule has been in effect since 2022 and is aimed at combating device theft. If you are trying to unlock a bootloader on a device purchased from hand, make sure that the previous owner untie your Mi Account!

Installation of custom recovery: TWRP alternatives

Once the bootloader is unlocked, the next step is to install a modified recovery. The standard Mi Recovery does not allow unofficial stitching. ZIP-files, so the development will require TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project (OrangeFox, PitchBlack).

It is important to choose the right version. TWRP For example, the firmware from Redmi Note 11 is not suitable for your model. POCO X4 Pro, even if they have the same processor. TWRP You can find it on twrp.me, but new devices (such as Xiaomi 14) often require unofficial ports from the community.

Instructions for installing TWRP:

# Transfer the device to fastboot mode


adb reboot bootloader




Switch TWRP (replace twrp.img with the current file)



fastboot flash recovery twrp.img




Run recovery directly from fastboot (important for A/B partition devices!)



fastboot boot twrp.img

⚠️ Note: On dynamic partition devices (Dynamic Partitions, for example, Xiaomi) 12T) firmware TWRP This can lead to a blink, in which case, use special scripts or refer to the guides on the XDA Developers.

After installation TWRP Backup of all partitions (Boot, System, Data, Vendor) is recommended, which will save you in case of a failed firmware. Save backup to your PC or external drive - the internal memory of the device can be formatted.

Battery charge > 50%|Backup of important data on PC|Right version TWRP model|Disabled signature verification in the developer settings|Finished file with firmware (if you plan to install it)-->

3. Getting root rights: Magisk and alternatives

Root access gives you full control over the system, but on Xiaomi devices it has peculiar features, the main tool is Magisk (author of topjohnwu), which allows you to hide root from applications (for example, banking) and stitch modules without changing the systemless root.

The process of obtaining root on Xiaomi:

1. Download the last one. Magisk.apk From GitHub and install it as a regular app.
2. Download the firmware file (boot.img) For your model from Xiaomi Firmware Updater.
3. Open Magisk, press Install → Select and Patch a File and select downloaded boot.img.
4. Copy the resulting magisk_patched.img file on your PC.
5. Fastboot: Fastboot Flash Boot magisk_patched.img

For HyperOS devices (e.g., Xiaomi) 14) The process may be different – you will need to patch init_boot.img instead boot.img. Please note that certain models (e.g, POCO F5) have anti-Rollback protection, which blocks rollbacks on older firmware versions.

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If Google services (e.g. Google Pay) stop working after installing Magisk, turn on the MagiskHide option in the Magisk settings and add the app to the exclusion list.

4. Firmware development: from porting to build from scratch

Creating custom firmware for Xiaomi can be divided into two approaches:

1. Porting is an adaptation of an existing firmware (like LineageOS) to your model, requiring minimal knowledge, but limited by kernel and driver compatibility.
2. Build from scratch - compilation of firmware from source (AOSP, CAF). It will require a deep knowledge of C.++, Java and Git work.

To start, we recommend you try porting LineageOS or Pixel Experience.

• 📥 Download the firmware source from GitHub.
• 🔧 Find or create a device tree for your model (e.g, device/xiaomi/sm6250 for POCO X3 NFC).
• 🛠️ Configure the environment for assembly (Ubuntu 20.04)+, 100+ GB of free space).
• 🐧 Start the assembly with the command: source build/envsetup.sh brunch [device code]

Qualcomm processor devices (most Xiaomi smartphones) will require proprietary binary (blobs) that can be extracted from stock firmware using the extract-utils tool.

If you plan to distribute your firmware, consider Xiaomi’s licensing requirements. Using proprietary binary options without permission may result in your Mi Community account being blocked.

5. Development of applications MIUI hyperos

If creating firmware seems too complicated, you can start by developing applications that are optimized for the development of a firmware. MIUI HyperOS: Xiaomi offers its own. API Tools for integration with their ecosystem, for example:

• 📱 Mi SDK — to work with sensors and smartphone functions.
• 🏠 Mi Home SDK — To manage Xiaomi smart devices.
• 🎮 Game Turbo SDK — Optimizing games for devices POCO and Black Shark.

To publish the application in the Mi App Store, you need:

1. Register as a developer on dev.mi.com (account verification is required).
2. Prepare the application to meet Xiaomi requirements (e.g., themes support) MIUI Adaptation to 120 Hz screens).
3. Test on real devices (emulator is not suitable due to specific features) MIUI).
4. Download. APK/AAB in the Mi App Store Console and wait for moderation (may take up to the 7 days).

The difference between the Mi App Store and Google Play:

• 📌 More stringent moderation (e.g., apps with referral programs are banned).
• 📌 Support for payments via Mi Pay (current for China and India).
• 📌 Ability to integrate with Mi Account to synchronize data.

⚠️ Note: Applications that use undocumented API MIUI (For example, to change system themes or disable ads, can be blocked. Xiaomi is actively fighting such projects through lawsuits.

6. Participation in the Xiaomi Developer Program

For serious developers, Xiaomi offers an official program - Xiaomi Developer Program.

• 🔑 Early access to beta versions MIUI hyperos.
• 📊 Statistics of the use of their applications in the ecosystem Xiaomi.
• 💰 Possibility of monetization through Mi Ads (Advertising Network Xiaomi).
• 🛠️ Technical support from Xiaomi engineers.

To join the program:

1. Register at dev.mi.com.
2. Fill out the developer profile (a portfolio or published applications will be required).
3. Confirm your account through video identification or documents (for legal entities).
4. Sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) — This is required for access to closed API.

Program members can apply for free test devices (e.g. Xiaomi 14 or Xiaomi). POCO F5), But the competition is very high - priority is given to developers with extensive experience.

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Participation in the Xiaomi Developer Program opens access to closed documents and beta testing, but requires strict rules (for example, a ban on publishing insiders about new devices).

7.Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced developers have problems with Xiaomi devices, and here are the most common mistakes and solutions:

Another common problem is the device's brique (complete inoperability) to minimize the risks:

• 🔋 Always check the battery power before running the firmware (minimum 60%).
• 🔌 Use the original cable USB Type-C (cheap cables can interrupt data transmission).
• 📋 Log all commands in the terminal (useful for debugging).
• 🛡️ Make sure you have a persist backup and nvram (these sections contain the same content). IMEI sensor calibration).

If the device still buckles, try to restore it through EDL-Emergency Download Mode requires Qualcomm to do this. HS-USB QDLoader 9008 port and Mi Flash Tool with clean all and lock option. EDL Reset all data and block the bootloader!

8. Monetization and legal aspects

Development for Xiaomi can generate revenue, but it is important to follow the legal framework.

• 💰 Mi Ads – Advertising integration into apps (revenue depends on the region, in China and India, impressions are more expensive).
• 🛒 Paid apps in the Mi App Store (30 percent commission, like Google Play).
• 📦 Donate versions of firmware or modules (popular among enthusiasts) XDA).
• 🤝 Partner programs with accessories stores for Xiaomi.

Legal nuances:

• 📜 Using Xiaomi logos or model names in the app name requires company permission.
• ⚖️ Distribution of modified firmware with proprietary Xiaomi binaries may be considered a violation of the license.
• 🔒 In some countries (e.g. China), developers are required to provide source code to applications at the request of the authorities.

If you plan to sell devices with preinstalled firmware (such as Xiaomi with Google-free version of Android), note that this may violate Xiaomi's user agreement. IMEI.

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Legal monetization on the Xiaomi ecosystem is possible only through official channels (Mi App Store, Mi Ads), informal ways (for example, selling “pirate” firmware) can lead to account blocking and lawsuits.

FAQ: Frequent questions about development for Xiaomi