Introduction: Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and what it changes
If you have ever tried to install custom firmware on a Xiaomi, Redmi or smartphone POCO, You may have encountered the concept of "bootloader unlock code," which is not just a random security measure, but a key element in protecting devices from unauthorized changes. The manufacturer has been blocking the bootloader on all its devices since 2016 to prevent the installation of pirated software, viruses and unofficial modifications that can disrupt the stability of the gadget.
But what if you really need to unlock the bootloader? For example, to install Global. ROM You'll need a unique unlock code, which Xiaomi only gives out after checking your Mi Account and the associated phone number. Unlocking is impossible without it, even through official tools like the Mi Unlock Tool.
In this article, we will discuss in detail:
- 🔓 What is an unlock code and how does it work
- ⚙️ Why do you need it (and when it is necessary)
- ⏳ Step-by-step process of obtaining code in 2026
- ⚠️ Risks and consequences of unlocking the loader
- 🔄 What to do if the code is lost or the device is blocked
Xiaomi has introduced a mandatory wait period (72 hours to 360 days depending on the model and account history) to reduce the number of fraudulent activities. If you urgently need to unlock your smartphone, this method will not work.
What is Xiaomi’s Unlock Code and How Does It Work?
The unlock code is a unique numeral combination that Xiaomi’s server generates for each particular device.
- 📱 IMEI your smartphone
- 👤 Mi Account that must be linked to the device
- 📞 The phone number confirmed in the account
Without this code, the Mi Unlock Tool (the official unlock tool) will not start the process by giving the error "Couldn't unlock" or "This device is locked." PIN-The lock screen code is a separate identifier that:
- 🔐 It is generated only once for each device.
- ⏳ Has a limited validity period (usually 30 days)
- 🚫 You can’t recover it if it’s lost (you’ll have to ask for a new one)
Technically, the unlock code confirms that you are the rightful owner of the device, and Xiaomi protects against:
- 🕵️♂️ Phone theft and resale (unlocking without code is impossible)
- 💻 Installation of malware through custom firmware
- 🔄 Bypassing regional restrictions (e.g., forced installation of Global) ROM Chinese models)
Why you need an unlock code: real cases of use
Many users mistakenly believe that unlocking the bootloader is only necessary for “geeks” or those who install custom firmware like LineageOS. In fact, there are at least 5 practical reasons why the code may be needed by the average user:
| Situation | Why do you need code? | Risks. |
|---|---|---|
| 📲 Installation Global ROM Chinese version (China) ROM) | Chinese firmware does not have Google Services or Russian language, and the code is needed to install the international version. | Possible loss of warranty, errors during the update |
| 🔧 Recovery of the brick after a failed update | If the smartphone does not turn on due to a firmware failure, unlocking allows you to flash it through Fastboot. | With incorrect actions, the device can be permanently disabled |
| 🔄 Update via Fastboot (if you have a OTA doesn't work) | Some updates (e.g. transition from the MIUI 12 on MIUI 14) require an unlocked loader. | The probability of errors in firmware is higher than through standard OTA |
| 🛠️ Removal of Bloatwer (pre-installed applications) | Some Xiaomi system applications cannot be removed without root rights, and an unlocked bootloader is needed to get them. | The stability of the system may be affected. |
| 🔒 Unlock after buying a used phone with a blocked Mi Account | If the previous owner did not untie the account, the unlock code will help reset the binding (but not always). | Xiaomi could lock a device if it thinks it was stolen |
But 80 percent of the time, you don't need to unlock it.
- 🔄 Update the firmware through Settings → Update of the PO
- 📱 Reset the settings to factory (Settings) → Additionally. → Recovery and discharge)
- 🔒 Install apps from Google Play (on Global) ROM)
You don't need an unlock code, and even more, once unlocked, some functions may not work properly:
- 📸 Xiaomi camera can give you an error "Can't connect to camera"
- 🔋 Quick Charge can be turned off
- 📶 Networks could be lost 4G/5G on some models
💡
Before unlocking, check if your Xiaomi model has unofficial firmware that supports all features. XDA Developers or in telegram chats dedicated to your model.
Step-by-step: how to get the unlock code in 2026
The process of obtaining code has changed since 2023, now Xiaomi has tightened the requirements for accounts and increased waiting times.
Link your phone number to your Mi Account|Enable debugging on USB unlock OEM|Connect the device to the Mi Unlock Tool|Wait. SMS with an unlock code (from 3 to 15 days)
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Step 1: Create and Confirm a Mi Account
If you do not already have a Mi Account, register it on the official account.xiaomi.com.
- 📧 Confirm the email
- 📞 Enter your phone number (without this code will not be issued!)
- 🔒 Set a strong password (Xiaomi can block your account if you have suspicious activity)
Step 2: Link your account to your device
On the smartphone you want to unlock:
- Go to Settings → Accounts → Mi Account
- Sign in under your account
- Enable data synchronization (this is a must!)
Step 3: Enable the Developer Modes
For this:
- Go to Settings. → The phone.
- Press 7 times on the version MIUI, Notice: “You have become a developer!"
- Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers
- Activate: 🔌 Debugging by USB 🔓 Unlocking OEM (major!)
Step 4: Install the Mi Unlock Tool
Download the official utility from the site en.miui.com/unlock (Windows only!! make sure that you are:
- 🖥️ Drivers are installed on the PC ADB Fastboot (can be downloaded via Mi) PC Suite)
- 📡 The device is connected to the PC via the original cable (cheap cables may not transmit data)
- 🔋 Battery charge > 60%
Step 5: Start the Unlocking Process
In the Mi Unlock Tool:
- Sign up with your Mi Account
- Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode (turn off your phone, then press Volume down). + Nutrition)
- Press Unlock and follow the instructions.
Step 6. Wait. SMS coded
This is the longest stage. Xiaomi does not send the code immediately, but through:
- ⏳ 72 hours for new accounts (registered less than 30 days ago)
- ⏳ 7 days for accounts older than 30 days
- ⏳ 15-360 days – if you have previously unlocked your devices (Xiaomi may suspect fraud)
⚠️ Note: If you try to unlock multiple devices in a row from one account, Xiaomi can block it for 30 days!
What to do if the code does not arrive or the device is blocked
Even if you follow all the instructions, you can have problems.
📵 The unlock code doesn't come by SMS
Causes and solutions:
- 🕒 Not enough time has passed. Xiaomi can send the code not immediately after the expiration of 72 hours, but within 3-5 days after the request. SMS day-to-day.
- 📵 Phone number not confirmed. Go to Mi Account → Security → Phone number and check that the number is up to date.
- 🚫 If you have previously broken rules (for example, tried to unlock too many devices), Xiaomi may restrict the functionality.
- 📡 Operator problems: some virtual operators (like the one in the video) Tele2 or Yota) not to be missed SMS Xiaomi. Use MTS, Beeline or Megaphone number.
🔒 The device is locked after a failed unlock
If after trying to unlock the smartphone:
- 📵 Not included (black screen or Mi logo)
- 🔄 He's fixated on the load.
- 🚨 This device is locked and this device is locked"
So something went wrong.
- 🔌 Connect the device to your PC and try to re-unlock using the Mi Unlock Tool.
- 📥 If the phone turns on but asks for an unlock code, try resetting the settings via Fastboot with the command: fastboot erase userdata Attention: this will delete all data!
- 🛠️ If nothing works, contact Xiaomi with a check to buy, and they can unlock the device officially (but not always free).
⚠️ Warning: If you bought a smartphone with your hands and the previous owner didn't untie his Mi Account, unlocking may not be possible. Xiaomi blocks devices like "stolen." The only way out is to contact the seller and ask him to untie the account via account.xiaomi.com.
Risks of unlocking the bootloader: what you lose
Unlocking the bootloader gives you freedom, but it takes away some benefits.
| What you lose | Why is this happening? | Can I get it back? |
|---|---|---|
| 🛡️ Xiaomi Guarantee | Unlocking is considered a breach of warranty conditions, and the service center may refuse repairs. | ❌ Not unless you lock the bootloader back (not always possible). |
| 🔄 Updates by air (OTA) | Xiaomi blocks automatic updates for unlocked devices. | ✅ Yes, if you hand-stitch it through Fastboot. |
| 📡 Widevine L1 (Full HD Netflix, Disney.+) | After unlocking, Widevine is downgraded to L3, What limits the quality of streaming to 480p. | ❌ Not unless you have to re-shoot the original firmware. |
| 🔋 Fast charging. | On some models (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro) after unlocking, Fast Charging is disabled. | ✅ Sometimes helps firmware kernel core from custom firmware. |
| 📸 Camera quality | The camera app can give out errors or work unstablely. | ✅ Partially, if you install a modified GCam. |
In addition, unlocked devices:
- 🔍 More often become a target for viruses (especially if you install untested firmware).
- 📵 Some features may be lost (e.g. Mi Pay or Game Turbo).
- 🚨 Xiaomi may be blocked if the system detects suspicious activity (for example, attempts to circumvent regional restrictions).
💡
If you only need to unlock to install Global ROM, Consider alternatives: many functions can be enabled through Settings → Additionally. → Region (select "Russia" or "India") without risking warranty.
Unlocking Alternatives: When Code Is Not Needed
Before you spend time getting the code, check if you can do without unlocking it.
- 🌍 Change the firmware region. In settings (Settings) → Additionally. → Region: Select “Russia” or “India” – this will include Google Services and Russian in Chinese firmware (but not all models).
- 📲 Installation Global ROM Some devices (e.g. Redmi Note 9 or Recovery) POCO X3) It allows you to make Global ROM through standard recovery (Settings) → Update of the PO → Three points. → Select a firmware file).
- 🔧 Getting root rights without unlocking. Some models have exploits (like DirtyCOW) that allow you to get root without unlocking the bootloader. MIUI.
- 🔄 Reset via Fastboot without unlocking. If the device doesn't turn on, you can try resetting it with a command: fastboot erase userdata fastboot erase cache This won't unlock the bootloader, but it can bring the phone back to life.
If you need to unlock to install custom firmware (like Pixel Experience or LineageOS), you can't do without code.
- 🔍 Check if there is a stable custom firmware for your model (on the forum) XDA or in telegram chat).
- 📋 Backup all data (unlocking wipes everything off the device!).
- 🔋 Charge your phone 100% (the process can take up to an hour).