Xiaomi 1S firmware: official and custom methods with unlocking the bootloader

Why should you use Xiaomi 1S and what are the risks?

The firmware of Xiaomi’s 1S smartphone is a process that can both return the device to its former performance and turn it into a “brick” if you act at random. This model, released in 2012 as Xiaomi’s first smartphone for the mass market, is now considered a rarity, but is still in demand among Android enthusiasts. The main reasons for flashing are: eliminating lags on outdated MIUI, installing modern custom software (for example, LineageOS), recovering from crashes or unlocking the bootloader for deep customization.

However, Xiaomi firmware 1S In 2026, it has nuances: official support has long been discontinued, and most tools (like the Mi Flash Tool) require adaptation to new versions of Windows and drivers. In this article, we will analyze current methods - from unlocking the bootloader to installing custom recoveries (TWRP) And we'll focus on common bugs, like, for example, alternative firmware, ERROR: Status 7 when trying to flash ZIP-file-over.

We warn you right away: if your Xiaomi 1S runs on stock firmware and is satisfied with the functionality, it is better not to take risks.

• 🔄 The device “hang” on the logo MI or cyclically rebooted (bootloop).
• 🐢 The system brakes even after resetting to factory settings.
• 🔓 You need to unlock the bootloader to install Magisk or custom core.
• 📱 Want to try the latest version of Android (like Android 10 via unofficial ports).

Preparation for firmware: what to do before the start

The first and most important step is to save data. The firmware erases the device's internal memory, so copy photos, contacts and files to your PC or cloud. 1S standard fit MTP-Mode (connect the phone to the computer via USB and select "File Transfer" if the device doesn't turn on, try extracting the microSD card (if you're using it) and reading it through the card reader.

Next, check the bootloader version. On Xiaomi 1S, it is blocked by default, and you will need to unlock the firmware through fastboot.

adb reboot bootloader


fastboot oem device-info

If you see Device unlocked: false in the answer, the bootloader is locked. Unlocking takes up to 72 hours (according to Xiaomi rules) and requires an account to be linked to Mi.

Make a data backup|Check the battery charge (minimum) 60%)|Download the firmware for your model (mione_plus)|Install drivers ADB/Fastboot|The loader is unlocked (if necessary)|Prepare. OTG-cable (for firmware through the Recovery)-->

Also prepare the tools:

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi 1S You can not install firmware from other models (for example, from Mi). 2 or Mi 2S). Even if the files have similar names (for example, mione_plus vs aries, this will cause irreversible damage to the partition NVRAM loss IMEI.

Method 1: Fastboot firmware (official firmware)

This method is suitable for restoring stock firmware or updating through the Mi Flash Tool.It requires an unlocked bootloader and is suitable if the device is not turned on or "stuck" on the logo. Download the official firmware for Xiaomi 1S (codename mione_plus) From Xiaomi – look for versions marked Fastboot (file with.tgz or.zip extension).

Instructions:

1. Unpack the archive with firmware in a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\Mi1S_fastboot).
2. Turn off the phone and press Volume Down + Power to log into the Fastboot.
3. Connect the device to your PC and run the Mi Flash Tool. utility should determine Xiaomi 1S how mione_plus.
4. In the Select field, specify the path to unpacked firmware. Select Clean all or Clean all and lock. + loader-lock).
5. Press Flash and wait until it is completed (about 5-10 minutes).

If the Mi Flash Tool is an error ERROR: Flash is not done, check it out:

• 🔌 Cable USB (Better to use the original).
• 🖥️ Drivers (re-install via Mi) PC Suite).
• 📁 The path to firmware (there should be no gaps or Cyrillic).
• 🔄 Mi Flash Tool (Try Flash All Except Storage).

Method 2: Install custom firmware through TWRP

For enthusiasts who want to install LineageOS, AOSP Or other custom assemblies, will be required. TWRP Recovery.This method is more flexible than Fastboot, but requires caution: wrong ZIP-The file can cause a brick (inoperability) of the device.

Steps:

1. Download the latest version TWRP Xiaomi 1S (file twrp-3.x.x-x-mione_plus.img) from twrp.me.
2. Rename the file to recovery.img and place it in the folder with fastboot.
3. Download your phone to Fastboot (Loudness Down) + Power and execute the command: fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
4. After a successful recording, reboot to Recavator: fastboot reboot recovery
5. V TWRP Make a backup of the current firmware (Backup section), then swipe ZIP-custom firmware file via Install.

Popular custom firmware for Xiaomi 1S:

• 📱 LineageOS 14.1 (Android 7.1) — XDA Developers.
• 🔄 Resurrection Remix (Android 6.0) – build with advanced settings.
• 🛡️ MIUI Pro - a modified version of stock firmware without Bloatware.

⚠️ Attention: Custom firmware for Xiaomi 1S Often collected by enthusiasts and may contain bugs. Check the reviews on forums before installing (for example, check the reviews on the forums, 4PDA or XDA). Particularly critical are the problems with RIL (communication module – without it, the mobile network will not work.

Official MIUI|LineageOS|Resurrection Remix|Another custom |Not yet decided-->

Unlocking the loader: step-by-step instructions

Without unlocking the bootloader, you can’t flash the Xiaomi 1S through fastboot or install TWRP. Xiaomi requires a Mi Account and a wait (usually 72 hours) to confirm the right to unlock. The process has changed since 2017, but for older models like the 1S, there are simplified rules.

Instructions:

1. Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website.
2. Log in to your Mi Account on your phone and unlock tool.
3. Connect Xiaomi 1S in Fastboot mode (Loudness down + Power).
4. In Mi Unlock Tool, click Unlock. If a waiting message appears, wait for the specified time (usually 3 days).
5. Once you unlock, reboot your phone. You can now sew custom recaps and software.

If the tool is unable to unlock:

• 🔄 Try another Mi Account (sometimes old accounts get blocked).
• 📡 Connect to another network (for example, via mobile internet instead of Wi-Fi).
• ⏳ Wait 24 hours and try again (sometimes the timer is reset).
• 🖥️ Launch Mi Unlock Tool on behalf of the administrator.

💡

If you are delayed, try using older versions of the Mi Unlock Tool (e.g. 2.3.803.1). 4PDA.

Typical errors and their solutions

Xiaomi 1S firmware is often accompanied by errors due to outdated hardware and incompatibility with new tools.

If after the firmware Xiaomi 1S does not SIM-The map is probably damaged. IMEI. It can be restored through the engineering menu:

1. Type on the keyboard ##4636##.
2. Go to Phone Information and check for IMEI status.
3. If you don’t have an IMEI, use the MTK Droid Tools (for MediaTek processors) or QCN Rebuilder.

💡

If the IMEI is missing after the firmware, never manually enter it through the engineering menu without the NVRAM backup.

Recovery after a failed firmware (unbrick)

If Xiaomi 1S It's turned into a brick (it doesn't turn on, doesn't respond to buttons), don't panic. In 90% of cases, the device can be restored via Fastboot or EDL-The Emergency Download Mode is required:

• 🔧 TestPoint – a special point on the board for forced transfer to the EDL.
• 🖥️ Mi Flash Tool or QFil (for Qualcomm chips).
• 📄 Firmware in.mbn or.elf format (for EDL).

Instructions for EDL-regime:

1. Open the back cover of the Xiaomi 1S and find TestPoint (usually next to the battery connector).
2. Connect your phone to your PC via USB. The device should be identified as a Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
3. Start the Mi Flash Tool, select the firmware and press Flash.
4. After you finish (10-15 minutes), turn off the cable and try to turn on the phone.

⚠️ Attention: TestPoint requires care, improper contact closure can damage the board, if you're not sure, contact the service center.

FAQ: Frequent questions about the firmware Xiaomi 1S