When the first switch on the Xiaomi smartphone, many users face a forced activation request SIM-A system that requires you to insert an operator card to continue configuring. MIUI, It is often annoying, especially if you buy a device for use without a mobile connection (such as a tablet) or with an eSIM. In some cases, the activation block may appear even after resetting, creating the illusion of a โbrick".
In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to disable activation. SIM on smartphones Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO โ from official methods to bypassing the engineering menu and ADB. We will pay special attention to models 2022โ2026 years (Xiaomi series) 13/14, Redmi Note 12/13, POCO F5/X5), We also explain why some "people's" methods (such as deleting files through the use of a computer) are more secure. TWRP) They stopped working and what is the threat.
Warning: on models with a blocked bootloader (bootloader) bypass activation SIM can lead to a complete loss of warranty and the risk of "bricking" the device. If you are not sure of your actions, it is better to contact the Xiaomi service center with a request to unlock the device officially.
Why Xiaomi needs activation SIM-map?
Forced activation function SIM appeared MIUI 12.5 and was tightened in MIUI 13/14. Xiaomi Officially Explains This With Security Measures:
- ๐ก๏ธ Protection against theft - no SIM It is more difficult to resell a stolen phone.
- ๐ฆ Grey supply control โ in some regions (India, Indonesia) devices are sold only with reference to local operators.
- ๐ Statistics collection โ Activation data helps to analyze the market.
- ๐ฐ Partner agreements โ with some operators Xiaomi has contracts for pre-installation of their products SIM.
In practice, this creates problems:
- ๐ซ It is not possible to use the phone as a Wi-Fi-only device (for example, for gaming or navigation).
- ๐ After resetting the settings (Factory Reset) the lock is returned.
- ๐ ๏ธ On the used phones may be required SIM previous owner.
It is important to understand that on new devices (especially from official stores), bypassing activation often leads to cancellation of warranty. On used phones, the risks are lower, but there is a possibility of software failures. POCO F5 Pro, try activating it instead of physical. SIM โ Sometimes it takes off the blockage.
Official ways to disable activation SIM
Before you go into hacks, try legal methods. They don't work on all models, but they're safe for the system.
1. Insert any active SIM-map
The easiest way is to insert any work SIM (And then you go through the initial setup:
- Complete the installation wizard (Mi Setup).
- Go to Settings. โ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Turn off the mobile data and pull out SIM.
- Perform a reset settings (Settings โ About Phone โ Reset settings).
On some models (e.g. Redmi Note 11) the lock will not return after that, however, on new devices (e.g. Xiaomi 14) it may be necessary to reactivate.
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If you don't have a physical SIM, but there is support for eSIM, try activating it through the operator's application (for example, "My Beeline" or "MTS Connect.
2.Use of the service menu (for some regions)
Phones sold in India, Indonesia or China sometimes have the following service codes:
##4636##In the menu that opens, select Information โ SIM Information and try to change status SIM This method does not work on all firmware and may disappear after the update.
3. Contact the Xiaomi Service Center
If the phone is new and warranty, the safest way is to contact the official service center to disable the lock.
- ๐ Check or guarantee card.
- ๐ฑ The device itself (preferably in factory packaging).
- ๐ Passport (to confirm purchase).
Service centers usually meet the requirements if the phone is legally purchased, and used devices may require proof of ownership (e.g., a contract of sale).
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The official methods are safe, but they don't work on all models, and if they don't work, go to alternative methods, but be aware of the risks!
Informal methods of circumventing activation SIM
If the official methods did not work, you can try to bypass the lock through the engineering menu, ADB These techniques require technical skills and can lead to:
- ๐จ Loss of warranty.
- ๐ System instability.
- ๐ Blocking your Mi Account (if tied).
We recommend using them only as a last resort and backing up the data before starting.
1. bypass through the engineering menu (MTK-chip)
On phones with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi) 10A, POCO M4 Pro) the following method sometimes works:
- Put any one in. SIM-card (even inactive).
- On the activation screen, type the code: ##36446337###
- In the Engineering Menu, select Connectivity. โ SIM.
- Change the parameter. SIM Lock Status on Disabled.
- Reset the device.
If the menu does not open, then your model does not support this method or the firmware is blocked.
2.Use of ADB (loader)
This method requires an unlocked bootloader and access to the USB-If these conditions are met:
- Connect your phone to your PC and enable debugging. USB (In Settings โ The phone. โ Version. MIUI Press 7 times, then return to the Additional Settings โ For developers).
- Download ADB Tools and open the command line in the folder with adb.exe.
- Enter the commands in order: adb shell settings put global device_provisioned 1 settings put secure user_setup_complete 1
- Reset the device.
This method works for MIUI 12-14, but may not work on the latest updates. If the lock is still locked after the reboot, try to do it further:
adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.SettingsMake sure that the bootloader is unlocked.
Turn on USB debugging.
Install Xiaomi drivers on PC
Download the latest version ADB Tools
Create a backup copy of the data-->
3. Delete system files (for power users only)
On some firmware activation lock SIM file-stored:
- /system/priv-app/MiuiSystemUI/MiuiSystemUI.apk
- /system/etc/prop.default
To remove them, root access or custom recovery is required (TWRP). Instructions:
- Install TWRP for your model.
- Download recovery (Power + Vol Up)
- Go to File Manager and delete the files.
- Reboot.
โ ๏ธ Attention: Deleting system files can lead to bootloop ( looped boot!
What if the phone doesnโt turn on after deleting the files?
Bypassing activation SIM bootloader
If the bootloader is locked (for new devices), most methods will not work.
1. Use of test firmware (EDL)
Some service centers use EDL-Emergency Download Mode for testing versions MIUI, check-out SIM. It's what you need:
- ๐ฅ๏ธ PC with Qualcomm QDLoader installed (for Snapdragon) or MediaTek Auth Bypass.
- ๐ Firmware EDL For your model (can be found on the forums) 4PDA or XDA-Developers).
- ๐ Cable USB Type-C with data support (not all cables are suitable!).
Process:
- Put your phone into EDL mode (usually by closing contacts on the board or via ADB).
- Connect to your PC and run the test firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.
- After the firmware, reset the settings.
โ ๏ธ Attention: Firmware through EDL An authorized account can cause hard-brick (irreparable damage) on models 2023-2026 (Xiaomi) 13T, Redmi Note 13 Pro+) This method is often blocked at the chipset level.
2. Purchase of "disconnected" firmware
On forums and in Telegram channels sold modified firmware with disabled verification SIM. Cost - from 300 to 1000 rubles:
- ๐ต๏ธโโ๏ธ Possibility of built-in spyware.
- ๐ Unstable work (bugs, application departures).
- ๐ซ Loss of loss OTA-update.
If you decide on this option, choose trusted sellers with reviews and be sure to check the firmware for viruses through VirusTotal.
Xiaomi models, on which the circumvention is especially difficult
Some devices have enhanced protection against activation bypass SIM. The table below shows the models where standard methods most often donโt work:
| Model | Chipset | Features of blocking | Recommended method of circumvention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13/13 Pro | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Locking at bootloader level, checking certificates MIUI | Official service or EDL (risk-takingly) |
| Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 | Secure Boot protection is difficult to get around without an authorized account | ADB (If the bootloader is unlocked) |
| POCO F5 Pro | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Verification IMEI activation, blocking when changing the region | Insertion SIM + reset |
| Xiaomi 12T Pro | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Linking to Mi Account, requires authorization upon reset | Deletion of account through EDL |
In these models, the risk of bricking with informal bypassing is maximum, and if your device is on the list, weigh the pros and cons before you do the experiment.
What do you do if nothing helps?
If all the methods have been tried and the lock is still there, you have a few options:
1. Sell the device "as is"
In the secondary market (for example, Avito or Yula), there is a demand for locked Xiaomi phones - they are bought for spare parts or attempts to unlock through service centers.
- ๐ฑ Exact model and condition.
- ๐ Reason for blocking (activation) SIM).
- ๐ฐ Prices 30-50% below market.
2. use the phone in limited mode
Some functions remain available even without activation:
- ๐ท Camera (unlocked through the engineering menu).
- ๐ฎ Games (installing) APK through ADB).
- ๐ Wi-Fi (on some models).
To install applications without access to the Play Market, use:
adb install path to file.apk3. to contact the informal service
Some workshops specialize in unlocking Xiaomi through:
- ๐ง JTAG (Restore firmware at the chip level).
- ๐ Authorized accounts EDL (brick-free).
- ๐ ๏ธ Replacement of motherboard (extreme case).
The cost of such services is from 1500 to 5000 rubles. Look for a master with reviews and a guarantee for work.