How to transfer Xiaomi smartphone to Fastboot mode: 4 proven ways

Fastboot mode on Xiaomi devices is a special engineering mode that allows you to interact with the bootloader directly through the computer. It is necessary for unlocking the bootloader, firmware custom Recovery (for example, TWRP), installing alternative firmware or restoring the “brick” after a failed update. However, improper login to this mode or errors during manipulation can lead to locking the device at the level of the Mi Account (Mi Account Lock), if the bootloader was unblocked.

In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to transfer Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO to Fastboot mode - from the classic method with buttons to software solutions through ADB and Mi Flash Tool. Particular attention will be paid to the nuances for new models (Xiaomi 13/14 series, Redmi Note 12), where the manufacturer has tightened protection. If you plan to unlock the bootloader - do not miss the section about linking the Mi Account to the device!

What is Fastboot Mode and Why You Need It

Fastboot (not to be confused with Recovery Mode!) is a low-level interface that is activated before the Android operating system boots, in which the device communicates with the computer via USB, allowing you to perform critical operations:

• 🔓 Unlocking the bootloader (bootloader unlock) - a mandatory step before installing custom firmware.
• 📥 Firmware official/unofficial images via Mi Flash Tool or fastboot teams.
• 🛠️ Restore the “brick” – if the smartphone does not turn on after a failed update.
• 🔄 Installation of custom Recovery (e.g, TWRP Or OrangeFox).

It’s important to understand that Fastboot and EDL Mode are different things. EDL is used for deep recovery through Qualcomm tools (like QFil), whereas Fastboot is a more “everyday” tool for power users. On new Xiaomi models (like Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Redmi K60 Pro), EDL entry is often locked hardware, so Fastboot remains the main method of manipulation.

⚠️ Note: On bootloader locked devices, many fastboot commands will be unavailable until officially unlocked via the Mi Unlock Tool. Trying to flash custom software without unlocking will lead to an error. FAILED (remote: 'Flashing is not allowed in Lock State').

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

This is the most versatile method that works even on “bricks” (devices that do not react to turn on) suitable for all Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones, including the old models (Redmi 4X, Mi A1) and the new ones (Xiaomi 14, POCO F5).

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone completely. If it freezes, hold the power button for 10-15 seconds before it turns off.
2. Hold the combination: 🔘 Power button (Power) + 🔽 The Volume Down button (Volume Down).

Hold both buttons for 5-10 seconds until a screen with the Mi Bunny logo and the FASTBOOT label at the bottom appears.

Fastboot

On some models (for example, Xiaomi Mi 11 or Redmi Note 10 Pro) the screen of the Fastboot can look different: instead of a bunny, the inscription appears FASTBOOT MODE It's normal -- as long as there's a line at the bottom of the screen. FASTBOOT.

The screen shows the Mi logo or inscription FASTBOOT|Device Manager defines the device as “Android Bootloader Interface"|Team team. `fastboot devices` The terminal displays the serial number.-->

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If the smartphone doesn't respond to buttons, try plugging it into charging for 5-10 minutes, then try again.A discharged battery can block the entrance to the Fastboot.

Method 2: Go to Fastboot via ADB (no buttons)

If the smartphone is turned on and you have access to settings, you can transfer it to Fastboot via the ADB command. This method is convenient when hardware buttons are faulty or you prefer software control.

What you need:

• 🖥️ Computer with installed ADB Fastboot (part of Android) SDK Platform-Tools).
• 🔌 USB-cable (preferably original).
• ⚙️ On the smartphone included debugging on USB (Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (press 7 times) → Additionally. → For developers → Debugging by USB).

Instructions:

1. Connect your smartphone to your PC via USB and allow debugging (a request will appear on the device screen).
2. Open the command prompt (cmd) in the adb folder (or use PowerShell).
3. Enter the command to check the connection: Adb devices must appear serial number of your device.
4. Transfer the smartphone to Fastboot command: adb reboot bootloader The device will reboot and enter the desired mode.

If the adb reboot bootloader command doesn’t work (for example, on the Xiaomi 13T), try an alternative command:

adb reboot fastboot

⚠️ Note: Some firmware (especially global versions) MIUI) After rebooting in Fastboot, you may need to re-allow debugging USB. If the device is not detected in fastboot devices, try to turn off / connect the cable or change the device. USB-port.

Method 3: Automatically log in via Mi Flash Tool

Mi Flash Tool is Xiaomi's official firmware tool for devices, which can automatically transfer a smartphone to Fastboot when you connect to a PC if you choose the appropriate mode, and is suitable for users who plan to flash official MIUI images.

How to use:

1. Download and install the Mi Flash Tool (Windows version).
2. Turn off your smartphone.
3. Press Volume Down + Power (as in Method 1) and connect the device to the PC via USB.
4. Run Mi Flash Tool. The utility should automatically identify the device in Fastboot mode and display it in the list.

If the Mi Flash Tool does not see the device:

• 🔌 Check the cable and port USB (better USB 2.0 on the back of the PC).
• 🔄 Reinstall Xiaomi drivers (you can download here).
• 🛠️ In Device Manager, check that the smartphone is defined as Android Bootloader Interface.

Method 4: Alternative methods for problem cases

If standard methods don’t work (e.g., a smartphone doesn’t respond to buttons or ADB isn’t available), try these options:

🔄 Reboot to Fastboot via Recovery

If you have custom Recovery installed (such as TWRP), you can go to Fastboot via it:

1. Log in to Recovery (usually Power + Volume Up).
2. Select Reboot → Bootloader.

🔌 Forced Fastboot through Test Points (for experienced ones)

On some models (e.g. Redmi Note 8 Pro or POCO X3), you can log into the Fastboot via test points on the motherboard. This is an emergency method that requires disassembling the device. For details, see the manuals for the specific model - improper manipulations can damage the device!

Table: Compatibility of methods with popular Xiaomi models

Frequent mistakes and their solutions

Even experienced users have problems with Fastboot, and here are the most common errors and ways to fix them:

• 🚫 Device not defined in fastboot devices: Check drivers (install Xiaomi Driver). USB-Cable (original preferably) Disable driver signatures in Windows (use gpedit.msc for this). → User configuration → Administrative templates → System system → Installation of the driver → Digital signature of device drivers).
• 🔒 Mistake. FAILED (remote: 'Flashing is not allowed in Lock State': So the bootloader is locked. Official unlock is required via Mi Unlock Tool. Link your Mi Account to your device in settings (Settings) → Xiaomi account → Mi Cloud → Find the device).
• ⚡ Smartphone doesn't turn on after Fastboot: Try clamping down Power + Volume Up for 10-15 seconds for forced reboot. If it doesn't work, run the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool (select Clean All option).

⚠️ Note: On new Xiaomi models (2023 and later), when unlocking the bootloader, Anti-Rollback protection can work, which means that once unlocked, you will not be able to flash the old version. MIUI — Before you manipulate, check the version of Anti-Rollback in the settings (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI).

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On devices with a blocked command loader `fastboot oem unlock` Use only the official Mi Unlock Tool with a tied Mi Account!

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions