How to Sign in to the BIOS on Xiaomi Phone: Instructions for All Models (2026)

When it comes to “BIOS on Xiaomi phone,” most users don’t mean the classic BIOS (like on a PC), but special boot modes – Fastboot or EDL (Emergency Download Mode), which allow you to perform deep configuration of the device: flash custom recovery (such as TWRP), unlock the bootloader, restore the “bricked” device or install official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.

Unlike computers where BIOS is responsible for hardware initialization, on Xiaomi smartphones (including Redmi and POCO sub-brands), these modes are used to interact with low-level software. For example, Fastboot is the equivalent of “safe mode” for firmware, and EDL is an emergency mode for recovery through qualified tools (requires Xiaomi authorization).

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to log into the BIOS (Fastboot/EDL) on Xiaomi, including models from 2023-2026 (Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 Pro+, POCO F6, etc.), and also tell you how to avoid typical errors. If your goal is to unlock the bootloader or install custom firmware, be sure to read the section on preparation!

How is Fastboot different from EDL: What to choose?

Before you go into the instructions, it is important to understand what mode you need, and these two modes are often confused, but they serve different purposes:

• 🔧 Fastboot is a "semi-open" mode available on all Xiaomi devices without additional manipulation. It allows you to sew official and custom images (with the bootloader unlocked), install TWRP, Resets. Works through the fastboot command in the PC terminal.
• 🚨 EDL (9008) – Emergency mode designed to repair devices with damaged firmware requires authorization from Xiaomi (for new models) or special cable (EDL It is used for firmware via the Mi Flash Tool even on locked devices.

The main difference is: Fastboot is for power users who want to modify the device, and EDL is for emergency recovery when the phone doesn’t turn on or gets stuck on the Mi logo.

⚠️ Attention: Entrance EDL On new Xiaomi models (released after 2022) it requires official authorization through a developer account. IMEI.

Method 1: Sign in to Fastboot via hardware buttons (for all models)

The most versatile method, which works on 99% of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices, is a combination of physical buttons, which requires no connection to a PC and works even if the phone is not turned on.

Instructions:

1. Turn off the device (if it is getting stuck – press the power button for 10-15 seconds).
2. Hold and hold the combination: 📱 For most models: Power button + Loudness down. 🔄 For some older devices (e.g. Redmi) 4X, Mi A1): Power button + Loudness up.

Fastboot

Mi Bunny

FASTBOOT

If the screen is black or the Recovery menu appears, the button combination is wrong. Try an alternative or check the specification for your model (see table below).

Method 2: Log in to Fastboot via ADB (if the phone is turned on)

If your Xiaomi is working fine, but you need to go to Fastboot for firmware or unlock, it is most convenient to use the ADB command. This method requires on-board debugging over USB and connection to the computer.

Step-by-step:

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Click 7 times on MIUI Version (you will be notified "You've become a developer").
2. Turn on USB Debugging: Return to Settings → Additional → Developer. Activate the USB Debugging Switch and confirm the resolution.

Command Prompt

adb devices

(Your device should be displayed. If not, install Xiaomi USB Drivers.)

adb reboot bootloader

The phone will automatically reboot to Fastboot mode.

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If the adb device command does not show the device, try changing the USB connection mode to File Transfer (MTP) in the notification curtain.

Method 3: Enter EDL (9008) - Emergency mode for recovery

EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is the “last frontier” for Xiaomi to recover when a device does not respond to other methods. It allows you to flash the device at a low level through the Mi Flash Tool, but has limitations:

• ✅ It works even on locked bootloaders (but requires authorization for new models).
• ❌ Could lead to loss IMEI or blocking your Mi Account when used incorrectly.
• 🔌 Requires a special cable (EDL cable) or short circuit testpoint (for older models).

Instructions for entering the EDL:

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Connect it to your PC with the original cable (important!).
3. Press and hold both volume buttons (up + down) at the same time.
4. Keep your buttons on, connect the cable to your phone. Hold on for 10 to 15 seconds.
5. In the PC Device Manager should appear Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008.

⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi models from 2023 to 2026 (e.g. Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 Pro)+) entrance EDL Unauthorized is blocked by Xiaomi server. Using informal methods (for example, through testpoint) can lead to the blocking of Mi Account and loss of warranty.

How to exit Fastboot/EDL: a secure reboot

Once you're done with Fastboot or EDL, it's important to get out right to avoid crashes. Here's how to do it:

• 🔄 From Fastboot: Press and hold the power button 10-15 seconds before rebooting. Or run the command in the terminal: fastboot reboot.
• 🚨 Isa EDL: Turn off the cable from your phone. Press the power button for 20-30 seconds (sometimes you need to plug the charger in).

If the device does not respond to the buttons, try:

1. Connect to charging for 10-15 minutes (sometimes helps with a discharged battery).
2. Use the fastboot reboot command (if the PC sees the device).
3. On models with removable battery - remove the battery for 30 seconds.

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Never remove the battery or disconnect the cable while running the firmware in EDL – this can cause irreversible memory damage (eMMC).

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even experienced users have problems logging into the BIOS on Xiaomi, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to fix them:

If your Xiaomi model is released after 2022 and is not included in the EDL standard methods, most likely, authorization is required. In this case, contact the Xiaomi service center or use official tools (for example, Mi Unlock Tool to unlock the bootloader).

Preparing for Fastboot/EDL: What You Need to Know

Before you start firmware or unlock, follow these steps to avoid problems:

1. Backup: Copy photos, contacts and files to your PC or cloud. Use Mi PC Suite to back up your applications.
2. Check your Mi Account status: Make sure you remember the username and password from your Mi Account (required to unlock the bootloader). Unlock your account if you plan to sell the phone (Settings → Mi Account).
3. Charge the battery: The charge level should be at least 50% (when you run the firmware in EDL, the phone does not charge!).
4. Download the necessary tools: Official MIUI firmware for your model. ADB and Fastboot (Platform Tools). Mi Flash Tool (for firmware in EDL).

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Before unlocking the bootloader, wait 72–168 hours (3–7 days) after you have attached your Mi Account to your device, a requirement Xiaomi has for new models (starting in 2021).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions