How to apply to unlock Xiaomi bootloader: a complete guide with the nuances of 2026

Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and what it gives the user

The bootloader unlock on Xiaomi smartphones is a procedure that makes it impossible to install custom firmware, obtain root rights or flash the global version of MIUI onto Chinese devices. The company has been blocking the bootloader by default since 2016, arguing that it is a security concern: a closed bootloader protects against viruses, unauthorized access to system partitions and prevents the installation of pirated software.

But for enthusiasts and power users, unlocking opens up a wide range of possibilities, from de-bloat to installing Google Camera on a model without official support. It’s important to understand that the procedure voids warranty (if the device is purchased in official channels) and requires adherence to strict Xiaomi rules. In 2026, the company tightened the requirements: now to unlock you need not only to link your Mi Account to the device, but also to wait for approval of the application, which can take up to 30 days.

Preparation of the device: 5 mandatory steps before submitting an application

Before you send a request to unlock, you need to pre-configure the smartphone, skipping at least one point will lead to a system failure or an account binding error.

• 📱 Update. MIUI Unlocking is only possible on current software. Check the updates in Settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🔗 Link Mi Account to your device. The account must be created at least 7 days ago and confirmed by email/Enter it on your smartphone via Settings. → Xiaomi account.
• ⏳ Wait 168 hours (7 days) after you have your account tied up.This is a mandatory requirement for Xiaomi for new devices (from 2023 onwards).

Pay special attention to account stability. If you have recently changed your password, email or phone, the system can block the request, and make sure that the device does not have root or modified recovery – their presence will automatically cancel the ability to unlock through the official tool.

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If you've bought a smartphone with your hands, check if it's been unlocked before. Go to fastboot (keep Volume down + Power on) and look at the line Device unlocked: false. If it's true, the device is already unlocked, and you don't need to apply.

How to apply through Mi Unlock Tool

The official unlock tool is the Mi Unlock Tool, which can be downloaded from Xiaomi's website, and the application process consists of several steps, each requiring precise execution, and a mistake at any step will result in a failure or an increase in waiting time.

1. Download and install Mi Unlock Tool on Windows PC (macOS and Linux are not supported). The utility version should be the same as the current year - older versions may not work.
2. Sign in to the utility under the same Mi Account that is linked to your smartphone. Use a login/password, not a password. QR-code.
3. Connect your phone in fastboot mode: 1. Turn off the device. 2. Press Volume Down + Power until the Mi Bunny logo appears in the Ushan hat. 3. Connect the USB cable to your PC (use the original cable!).
4. Click Unlock in the utility. The system will automatically check the account's binding and send a request to Xiaomi servers.

After submitting the application, you will see one of the messages:

Is Mi Account Linked to the Device?|Is debugging on-line USB?|Has the latest version been installed? MIUI?|The phone is connected in fastboot mode?|Is the original used? USB-cable?-->

If you see a message called Couldn't unlock. Try again after 360 hours, it means that the device was recently linked to an account, and then you just have to wait, and you can get around the wait by changing your account or resetting your phone, and you can get the lock time up to 30 to 60 days.

How long to wait for approval and how to speed up the process

The timeline for the application will depend on several factors: device model, account region and Xiaomi server load, and the average timeframe for 2026 is as follows:

• ⚡ Xiaomi Developer Devices: 1–24 hours.

It is not officially possible to speed up the process, but there are legitimate ways to reduce the wait:

1. If your Mi Account is older than 1 year and has previously successfully unlocked other devices, the chances of quick approval are higher.

Important: don't send repeated applications before the waiting period expires. Every new attempt resets the timer, and you have to wait again. If the utility gives an error Current account is not bound to this device, this does not mean that the application has not been sent, check the email for confirmation email.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Most of the problems with unlocking are due to the incorrect preparation of the device or account. TOP-5 mistakes and their solutions:

1. Error: "This Mi Account is not bound to this device" Reason: the account is not tied to the phone or has been tied less than 7 days ago Solution: Check the link in Settings → Xiaomi account → Security → Devices. If the device is missing, log in again and wait 168 hours.
2. Error: "Couldn't verify device" Reason: IMEI or serial number mismatched in Xiaomi system. Solution: upgrade MIUI to the latest version and try again. If the error persists, the device may be blacklisted (for example, after repair with a replacement motherboard).
3. Error: "Network error" Reason: IP lock or Internet connection problems Solution: Use a stable connection (better wired Internet) and turn off the VPN. If the error repeats, try changing the network (for example, switch from Wi-Fi to mobile Internet).

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If you see a Couldn't unlock error. Try again after 360 hours, it's not a bug, but a standard restriction for new devices. Any attempts to get around it (reset, change account, firmware) will lead to an increase in lock time to 30-60 days.

Another common problem is that you can't log in to fastboot. If you're holding Loudness Down + Power, you can try:

• 🔌 Connect the charger (sometimes a discharged battery blocks fastboot entry).
• 🔄 Use the combination of Volume up + Power (on some models, for example, Redmi Note 12).
• 🖥️ Connect your phone to your PC and type in the command: adb reboot bootloader

What to do after approval: unlock and the first steps

When you receive the approval letter (topic: Mi Unlock Status Update), you can proceed to the final unlock.

1. Open the Mi Unlock Tool and log in.
2. Connect your phone to fastboot (as described above).
3. Press Unlock and confirm the action.

It takes 1-2 minutes to complete, and after successful unlocking,

• 📱 The phone will automatically restart and reset to factory settings.
• 🔓 Fastboot will now show Device unlocked: true.
• ⚠️ Warranty is cancelled (if the device is purchased in official channels).

Now you can:

• 🛠️ Install custom recovery (TWRP).
• 📦 Sweep global or custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience).
• 🔧 Get root rights through Magisk.

fastboot flash persist persist.img

This will help restore the network if the signal disappears after the firmware.-->

⚠️ Warning: An unlocked bootloader makes the device vulnerable to fastboot attacks.Never connect the phone to public charges or unknown PCs - this can lead to data theft or malware installation.

Xiaomi models with unlocking features (2023–2026)

Some Xiaomi devices have unique limitations or unlock requirements, and the table below shows the current data for 2026:

The POCO and Black Shark models have the same rules as Xiaomi/Redmi, but they often have additional checks at the submitting stage. For example, Black Shark 5 Pro requires confirmation through the SharkSpace app.

⚠️ Note: If your device is purchased in China for the domestic market (version) CN), Unlocking can lead to loss of function NFC or 5G Check compatibility on global firmware before you run the firmware. XDA Developers or 4PDA.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions