Have you ever wondered why your Xiaomi smartphone doesn't allow you to delete preinstalled apps, restricts access to system files, or blocks certain features? It's all about the Android operating system limitations that the manufacturer sets for security and stability. But what if you want root rights -- full control of the device?
In this article, we will discuss what root is on Xiaomi, why a regular user needs it (and not a very ordinary one), what risks it carries unlocking a bootloader, and how to get a superuser on different models from Redmi Note 10 to flagship Xiaomi 14. You will learn what tools you need, how to bypass MIUI locks, and what to do if after receiving the root, the phone stopped working. And also unique data on how Xiaomi tracks unlocked devices and why this can lead to blocking the Mi Account.
What are root rights and why do you need them on Xiaomi?
Root rights are access to system files and Android commands at the administrator level, and you become a "super user" who can:
- 🗑️ Remove embedded apps (bloatwars) such as Mi Browser, Mi Music or GetApps that cannot be uninstalled in standard ways.
- ⚙️ Modify system settings: change the processor frequency, set up auto-run applications, block ads at the host level.
- 🔧 Install custom firmware (custom) ROM), LineageOS or Pixel Experience to get a clean Android without shell MIUI.
- 📱 Backup all data, including messages, app settings, and even Wi-Fi passwords, with tools like Titanium Backup.
But it's not all that rosy. With root rights, you lose your official warranty, you risk building a device (turning it into a brick), and you become more vulnerable to viruses, like Xiaomi can block a Mi Account if it finds an unlocked bootloader, which is part of their security policy.
Differences root from unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi
Many people confuse two concepts: bootloader unlock and root rights.
| Procedure | What gives | Risks. | Reversibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlocking the loader | The ability to stitch custom recovery (TWRP) and cores, but without root. | Data reset, loss of warranty, risk of blocking Mi Account. | You can block it back (but not on all models). |
| Getting root rights | Full control of the system, access to /system and /data. | Unstable operation, vulnerability to viruses, failure of banking applications. | You can remove root, but the traces will remain in the bootloader. |
| Custom firmware | Replace MIUI with LineageOS, AOSP, etc. | Loss of camera functions, sensors, possible bugs. | We can return the stock firmware. |
On Xiaomi, unlocking a bootloader is a must-have first step before getting root. Without it, you can’t flash Magisk (a popular root tool) or TWRP. Unlocking it erases all data from your phone and requires you to link to your Mi Account.
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If you unlock the bootloader but don't get root, the device will still be considered "unofficial." This can lead to problems with MIUI over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Official and unofficial ways to unlock the bootloader
Xiaomi provides the official way to unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool, but the process is not as simple as it seems:
- 📱 Attach the device to the Mi Account in settings (Settings) → Xiaomi account).
- 🔗 Put the debugging on. USB and allow unlocking in Settings → For developers.
- 🖥️ Download Mi Unlock Tool from Xiaomi official website (Windows only).
- ⏳ Wait 7–168 hours (depending on model) – Xiaomi imposes a “timeout” on unlocking.
Informal methods (such as through Fastboot or exploits) can work faster but are risky. On Redmi Note 12, for example, unofficial unlocking can lead to hard-brick (total loss of performance) if the command is not selected correctly.
⚠️ Note: On new models (Xiaomi) 13/14, Redmi K60) Xiaomi has introduced an additional test — Anti-Rollback. MIUI Once unlocked, the phone can become a brick forever".
List of models from Anti-Rollback
Step-by-step: how to get root on Xiaomi
If you’re willing to take a chance, here’s a universal algorithm for most models (like the Redmi Note 11):
Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool
Install ADB and Fastboot drivers
Download Magisk (last version from GitHub)
Create a backup of the data (it will be erased)
Charge your phone at least 60%
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Step 1: Installation of TWRP
After unlocking the bootloader, run custom recovery (TWRP) through Fastboot:
fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0_12-v6.7_A13-redminote11pro.img
fastboot reboot recoveryStep 2. Magisk firmware
TWRP:
- Click Install and select the downloaded file Magisk-v26.4.zip.
- Swipe for confirmation.
- Reboot to the system.
Step 3. Root check
Install Magisk Manager and check status. If you see a green tick, root is received!
⚠️ Note: On some models (POCO X3 Pro, Redmi K40) After the firmware Magisk stops working Widevine L1 (no HD Netflix, Disney.+). This can only be corrected by rolling back on the stock firmware.
Problems After Getting Root and How to Solve Them
Even if it goes well, you may find:
- 🚨 Banking apps don't work: SberBank, Tinkoff and Google Pay block access on rooted devices.The solution is to use the MagiskHide Props Config module or Universal SafetyNet Fix module.
- 🔄 They don't come. OTA-update: MIUI Refuses to update on devices with unlocked bootloader. You have to download firmware manually from xiaomifirmwareupdater.com.
- 📵 Network problems: On some models (Redmi) 9A) rust 4G. This is due to incorrect modifications of the file. /system/build.prop.
The most common error is "Bootloop" (infinite reboot), usually due to an incompatible version of Magisk or TWRP. The way out is to flash stock recovery through Fastboot:
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
fastboot reboot💡
If the root phone doesn't turn on, don't panic. 90% of the time, it helps to run stock firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode.
Xiaomi models, which are the most difficult to root
Not all Xiaomi devices are equally friendly to modifications.-5 "complex:
| Model | Problem. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi 13 Ultra | Unlocking on new firmware (MIUI 14+) | Recoil on MIUI 13 via EDL (requires an authorized account). |
| Redmi K60 Pro | Anti-Rollback 4: You can’t run old versions. | Use only firmware with ARB 4. |
| POCO F5 | There is no stable TWRP for Android 13. | Switch Magisk through the boot.img patch. |
| Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 | Fastboot is blocked on some regional versions. | Reflash to global firmware through EDL. |
| Redmi Note 12 Turbo | The new Mi Account verification system requires SMS-confirmation. | Use an account that is linked to the device for more than 7 days. |
If your model is on this list, be prepared for additional tambourine dancing.For example, Xiaomi 13 Ultra may require a purchase. EDL-cable (about 1000-1500 rubles) and authorization through Chinese services.
Root Alternatives: What You Can Do Without a Super User
Not everyone needs root rights. Many problems are solved in legal ways.
- 🧹 Removal of the bloatwar: Use ADB Deactivation of system applications without root: adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.miui.browser
- ⚡ Acceleration of work: Include MIUI Optimization in the settings for developers (Settings) → For developers → Include optimization MIUI).
- 🔒 Ad Blocking: Install Blokada or AdGuard – they work without rooting through VPN.
- 📱 Castomy icons and themes: MIUI Supports the installation of themes through Themes (without system modifications).
If you only need to remove unnecessary apps or speed up your phone, try these methods before unlocking the bootloader.They are safer and won't take away your warranty.