Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones is a must for custom firmware installation, root rights or device recovery after software failures. However, since 2023, the company has tightened the rules: now the process requires not only a Mi Account account to be linked to the device, but also a mandatory wait of 720 hours (30 days) for new models. In this article, we will discuss how to properly apply for unlock through the computer, avoiding typical errors and account locks.
It is important to understand that unlocking the bootloader will void the warranty on most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models. In addition, after the procedure, all data on the device is reset - so make a backup in advance. If you use your smartphone to work with banking applications (for example, SberBank Online or Tinkoff), please note that some of them may cease to function due to the changed status of the bootloader.
Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and why unlock it
Xiaomi is blocking bootloader on all its devices for three key reasons:
- 🔒 Data security: A closed bootloader protects the device from installing malware or uncertified firmware that can steal personal information.
- 📱 Stability: custom firmware often contains bugs leading to a “brick” (inoperability) of the smartphone, which increases the load on service centers.
- 📉 Ecosystem Control: Xiaomi aims to keep users in its branded shell MIUI, where the company’s services are integrated (e.g. Mi Cloud or Mi Pay).
However, unlocking the bootloader gives the user a number of advantages:
- 🛠️ The ability to install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience), which offer pure Android without advertising and unnecessary services.
- 🔧 Getting root rights to deep-set the system, remove embedded applications, or change processor parameters/GPU.
- 🔄 Restore the device after a soft brick (for example, if the smartphone is stuck on the Mi logo due to an unsuccessful update).
⚠️ Attention: Unlock the bootloader on Xiaomi models 13/14 series, Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and require further confirmation through SMS-a code sent to a number associated with the account. SIM-The card is lost or the number is changed, the procedure will be impossible without contacting Xiaomi.
Requirements for unlocking the bootloader in 2026
Since 2023, Xiaomi has tightened the rules for unlocking, and now 5 mandatory conditions must be met to successfully submit an application:
| Requirement | Details. | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Linking Mi Account to your device | The account must be added to Settings → Accounts → Mi Account and confirmed via SMS/email. | On models up to 2020 (for example, Redmi Note 8 Pro) you can bypass the binding via fastboot. |
| Waiting 720 hours (30 days) | For new devices (from 2022), waiting after the account is attached is mandatory. Old models - 168 hours (7 days). | Devices purchased before 2021 may have a reduced waiting time. |
| MIUI version not lower than Global Stable | The device must be installed official global or Chinese firmware (not custom). | EU ROM firmware is allowed for POCO, but with the risk of blocking. |
| Disabled Find Device | The “Find Device” function should be turned off in Settings → Mi Account → Find the device. | Some models (such as the Xiaomi 12T) also require you to disable Mi Cloud Sync. |
| Battery charge ≥ 60% | The device must not be discharged during the procedure, otherwise the process will be interrupted. | — |
If at least one of the conditions is not met, Mi Unlock Tool will give an error. For example, if you try to unlock on Redmi Note 11 Pro+ with a non-tethered account, you will receive a message: Couldn't unlock. The current account is different from the account info on the device.
💡
Before starting the procedure, check if your Mi Account is blocked for suspicious activity. Try logging in to account.xiaomi.com from another device. If access is denied, unlocking the bootloader will not be possible until the restrictions are lifted.
Preparing your computer and smartphone for unlocking
Before you apply, you need to prepare both the computer and the device itself.
Install Mi USB Driver | Download Mi Unlock Tool of the latest version | Disable antivirus (can block the tool) |Enable debugging mode via USB on your smartphone-->
Installation of drivers
Without the correct Xiaomi drivers, your computer will not recognize your device in fastboot mode. Download official drivers from the MIUI Downloads site (Mi Phone Manager section) or use the universal ADB Driver Installer package.
fastboot devicesIf the device is displayed (e.g., 1234abcd fastboot), the drivers are installed correctly.
2 Download Mi Unlock Tool
The official utility can only be downloaded from Xiaomi's website (requires authorization via Mi Account), third-party versions may contain viruses or be outdated, and as of 2026, the current version is Mi Unlock Tool 6.5.424.24.
3. Smartphone setup
The device must:
- 🔧 Enable Developer Mode: Go to Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI and tap 7 times on this item.
- 🔌 Activate Debugging by USB In Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
- 🔒 Disable all screen locks (PIN, pattern lock, print).
- 📱 Link Mi Account to Settings → Accounts. → Mi Account and confirm via SMS.
⚠️ Note: Xiaomi 13 Ultra and Redmi models K60 Pro after linking the account must additionally confirm the unlock through SMS-The code that will come to the number that is tied to the Mi Account, without which the Mi Unlock Tool will not start counting 720 hours.
Step-by-step: Application for Unblocking
When the preparation is complete, you can start the procedure itself.
Step 1: Transfer the device to fastboot mode
Turn off your smartphone. Press the power buttons at the same time. + Turn down the volume by 10 to 15 seconds until the Fastboot logo appears. Connect the device to your computer via the original Fastboot logo. USB-cable (it is desirable to use the port) USB 2.0 for stability).
Step 2: Authorization to Mi Unlock Tool
Launch the downloaded Mi Unlock Tool on behalf of the administrator. In the program window, click Agree, then log in to the same Mi Account that is linked to the device. If the account is not confirmed via SMS, the program will issue an Account error is not bound to this device.
Step 3: Checking the Unlocking Status
Once authorized, the Mi Unlock Tool will automatically detect your device and show you your current status.
- ⏳ Waiting for 720 hours – 30 days waiting for new devices).
- ⏳ Waiting for 168 hours – 7 days waiting).
- 🔓 Unlocked – the bootloader is already unlocked.
- ❌ Couldn't unlock - error (see section "Prevalent Errors»).
Step 4: Start the Unlocking Procedure
If the waiting period is over, press the Unlock button. The program will start a process that will take 1-3 minutes. Do not turn off the cable or exit the Mi Unlock Tool! Upon completion, the device will automatically restart and all data will be erased.
💡
If the Mi Unlock Tool is a Couldn't verify device, try using another one. USB-cable or port. Often the problem lies in unstable connection.
Common mistakes and their solutions
Even when all conditions are met, users often encounter errors, and consider the most common ones and how to fix them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t unlock. The current account is different from the account info on the device | The account in the Mi Unlock Tool does not match the one associated with the device. | Delete all accounts in Settings → Accounts, add the desired Mi Account and confirm via SMS. |
| Couldn’t verify device | Problems with USB connection or drivers. | Try another cable/port, reinstall drivers, disable antivirus. |
| Your device isn’t supported by Mi Unlock | The device is too new or not supported by the utility. | Update the Mi Unlock Tool to the latest version or wait for official support to be added. |
| Network error | Internet connection problems or IP blocking. | Use a stable connection (preferably via cable) and disable the VPN. |
If none of the solutions worked, try:
- 🔄 Restart your computer and smartphone.
- 📥 Download Mi Unlock Tool again (possibly corrupted file).
- 📅 Wait 24 hours and try again (sometimes Xiaomi servers temporarily restrict requests).
What if the Mi Unlock Tool can’t see the device?
What to do after successful unblocking
Once the bootloader is unlocked, your device will be completely reset. Now you can:
- 📱 Install custom recovery (for example, TWRP) backup.
- 🔧 Swipe custom firmware (e.g. Pixel Experience or LineageOS).
- 🔑 Get root rights through Magisk.
However, keep in mind the risks:
- 🚨 Loss of warranty: Most service centers refuse to repair devices with unlocked bootloader.
- 🛡️ Security vulnerability: Open bootloader makes it easier for attackers to install malware.
- 📵 Problems with banking applications: SberBank Online, Tinkoff and others can block work on devices with unlocked bootloader.
If you plan to return to the official firmware, the bootloader can be blocked again via fastboot command:
fastboot oem lockBut remember, this will result in a complete data dump.