Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones is a must for custom firmware installation, root rights or device recovery after software failures. However, the company strictly controls this process by requiring a special unlock code that is not always easy to get. In this article, we will discuss all the current methods, from official request through the Mi Unlock Tool to alternative methods for devices with restrictions.
It is important to understand that the procedure of unlocking is associated with risks: loss of warranty, possible breech (turning the device into a βbrickβ) when errors, as well as restrictions on the part of Xiaomi for new models. We will explain in detail how to minimize these risks and what to do if the official method does not work, POCO Black Shark, including the latest models from 2023 to 2026.
Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and why you need an unlock code
Xiaomi is blocking bootloader on all its devices for several reasons:
- π Data security: A blocked bootloader protects the device from unauthorized access to system partitions, which reduces the risk of identity theft.
- π‘οΈ Virus protection: custom firmware and modified cores may contain malicious code that will gain full control of the system.
- π± Stability: Unofficial firmware often causes failures, overheating and rapid battery discharge, which spoils the brandβs reputation.
- π° Ecosystem Control: Xiaomi is interested in users using branded services (Mi Account, Mi Cloud), which may be incompatible with custom firmware.
The unlock code is a unique digital key that is tied to the IMEI It confirms that you are the legitimate owner of the smartphone and you understand the risks of unlocking it. Without this code, the Mi Unlock Tool program will not start the process, even if all other conditions are met.
β οΈ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader results in a complete device reset (all data including photos, contacts and apps are deleted). β The phone. β Backup or third-party utilities like Titanium Backup (requires root).
S 2021 Xiaomi tightened its unlock policy for new models, now some devices (e.g. Xiaomi) 13/14 series, Redmi Note 12 Pro+) require additional account binding to the device for a period up to 30 It's done to fight theft and resale of smartphones.
Receiving code through Mi Unlock Tool
This is the only legal method approved by Xiaomi, which works for most devices, but has time and account limits.
- Create or sign in to Mi Account Go to account.xiaomi.com and register an account if you don't already have one. Use a real phone number, which you'll need to verify. VPN.
- Link your account to your device On your smartphone, go to Settings β Xiaomi account and sign in. then go to Settings β Additionally. β Developer β Mi Unlock status and link the device to your account. On new models, a countdown timer (usually 7-30 days) will appear here).
- Download Mi Unlock Tool The official utility can be downloaded from the unlock page. Make sure you download the latest version (at the time of 2026 - Mi Unlock Tool 6.5.224.24).
- Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode Turn off the device, then press the Power button + Volume down before the Fastboot logo appears.Plug your smartphone to your PC via the original cable USB Type-C.
- Open Mi Unlock Tool, log in to your Xiaomi account and follow the instructions of the program. If the countdown timer has expired, the utility will prompt you to enter the unlock code (it can come to the mail or appear in the program).
Is Xiaomi account linked to the device?|Is the waiting timer over (7β30 days)?|Drivers installed ADB/Fastboot PC-only?|Is the data backup done?|Is the smartphone charged on 50% more?-->
If you see a Couldnβt unlock error or This device is locked, check:
- π Connection to USB: Try another cable or port.
- π Waiting timer: on new devices, it can be reset when changing your account.
- π± Version MIUI: Some firmware (especially Chinese) block the unlocking.
β οΈ Note: If you bought a smartphone with your hands, the previous owner could have linked it to his account, in which case unlocking is impossible without his participation. β Additionally. β Developer β Mi Unlock status.
Alternative ways to get an unlock code
If the official method doesnβt work (for example, due to regional restrictions or server errors), you can try alternatives. They are less reliable and may violate Xiaomiβs terms of use, so use them at your own risk.
1. Through third-party services (paid and free)
There are online services that offer to generate an unlock code for a fee (from 500 to 3000 rubles).
- π You're sending. IMEI Devices (can be found in Settings) β The phone. β All parameters. β IMEI or on a box).
- π³ Pay for the service (usually via Qiwi, YuMoney or cryptocurrency).
- π§ Get the code to the mail within 1-24 hours.
Risks:
- π¨ Fraud: Many services disappear after payment.
- π Xiaomi may ban your Mi Account for using unofficial methods.
- π± Incompatibility: The code may not be suitable for new models (e.g. Xiaomi 14 or Redmi) K70).
Of the well-known services can be distinguished:
- MiUnlock.pro (paid, supports most models)
- XiaomiTool V2 (Free of charge, but requires technical skills)
- Telegram bots, like, @MiUnlockBot (riskily)
2. Through exploit in firmware (for older models)
Some vulnerabilities in older versions MIUI They can bypass code checks, for example, for devices on the MIUI 10-12 can be used:
- π§ EDL-Mode: allows you to flash the device through Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008, but requires special cable and fastboot commands knowledge.
- π¦ Downgrade firmware: rollback to an older version MIUI, where unlocking is possible without code (not working on all models).
Example of a team to check for support EDL:
fastboot oem edlβ οΈ Attention: Use EDL on new devices (Snapdragon) 8 Gen 2/3) It can cause hard-brick damage. Before experimenting, check the support for your model in the forums. XDA Developers or 4PDA.
Official (Mi Unlock Tool)|Party service (paid service)|Exploit/EDL-regime|I haven't tried it yet.|Another way.-->
3. Through a call in support of Xiaomi
In rare cases, Xiaomi support may issue an unlock code on request if you provide:
- π Check of purchase (confirms that you are the owner).
- π± IMEI and serial number of the device.
- π Reason to unlock (for example, recovery from failure).
The chances of success are minimal, but you can try writing in:
- π§ Official support: support@mi.com
- π¬ Twitter/X: @Xiaomi
- π± Mi Community: c.mi.com
Comparison of Unlocking Methods: Pros and Cons
| Method | Timeline | Cost | Risks. | Suitable models |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official (Mi Unlock Tool) | 7-30 days | Free of charge. | Data reset, account binding | All models (except some for China) |
| Side service | 1-24 hours | 500β3000 β½ | Fraud, account blocking | Most, except for the latest ones. |
| EDL/exploit | 30-60 minutes | Free (need cable) | Hard-brick, loss of warranty | Older models (until 2021) |
| Appeal of support | 3-4 days | Free of charge. | Low probability of success | Anybody but rarely works. |
As you can see from the table, the official method remains the safest, despite the long wait, and alternative methods should be considered only if:
- π You don't have time to wait 30 days.
- π± The device does not support Mi Unlock Tool (e.g. some Chinese versions).
- π§ You are willing to risk your data and warranty.
π‘
If your device is released after 2022 The chances of successful unlocking through exploit or EDL Manufacturer has closed most vulnerabilities in new Snapdragon chipsets 8 Gen 1/2/3 Dimensity 9000+.
Frequent Unlocking Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even when following the instructions, users often encounter errors, and consider the most common ways to solve them:
1.Couldn't unlock error (50% or 99%)
Reasons:
- π Unstable connection to USB (Try the port USB 2.0 instead of 3.0).
- π The waiting timer has not expired (check the Mi Unlock Status).
- π± The device is not supported by the current version of the Mi Unlock Tool (update the utility).
Decision:
- Reinstall the drivers ADB/Fastboot via Mi Flash Tool.
- Disable the antivirus (it can block the Mi Unlock Tool).
- Try another PC with Windows 10/11 (on macOS/Linux The utility is not stable).
2. "This device is locked" error
This error occurs if:
- π The device is linked to another Mi Account.
- π± The smartphone was bought in China and has a regional lock.
- π§ The firmware has disabled the option. OEM Unlock (include it in Settings) β For developers).
Decision:
- If the smartphone is used, contact the previous owner and ask to untie the account.
- For Chinese models (China) ROM) may require a firmware Global/EU ROM.
3. "Network error" or "Server busy" error
Xiaomi server problems are common.
- π Use it. VPN (Recommended servers in Hong Kong or Singapore).
- β³ Try later (peak loads - from 12:00 to 15:00 Beijing time).
- π Reset the Mi Unlock Tool with Administrator Rights.
What if the smartphone turned into a βbrickβ after unlocking?
How to check if bootloader is unlocked on Xiaomi
If you bought a smartphone with your hands or are not sure about the status of the bootloader, check it in two ways:
Method 1: Through Fastboot
- Turn off the device.
- Press the Power button + Volume down to enter the Fastboot.
- Connect your smartphone to your PC and type in the command line: fastboot oem device-info
- If the answer is Device unlocked: true, the bootloader is unlocked.
Method 2: Through the Developer Settings
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings β About Phone and click on MIUI Version 7 times.
- Back to Settings β Additionally. β For developers.
- Find Mi Unlock Status, and if it says "Device unlocked," the bootloader is open.
On unlocked devices, a warning appears when booting:
Orange State means the bootloader is unlocked, but it is not a mistake, but a normal state.
What to do after unlocking the bootloader
Once successfully unlocked, you get full control of the device, but it also imposes additional responsibilities:
- π Install custom recovery (for example, TWRP or OrangeFox) for backups and firmware of modified images.
- π¦ Sweep through custom firmware (e.g. LineageOS, Pixel Experience or MIUI EU) for extended functions.
- π Get root rights through Magisk (but remember, it can break the banking app experience).
- π‘οΈ Disable bootloader Check (if you need to hide the unlock status from some apps).
Example of installation command TWRP:
fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
fastboot boot twrp.imgβ οΈ Note: After unlocking the bootloader, some functions may not work properly: πΈ Widevine L1 may degrade to L3, Why Netflix and Disney are+ They will only show videos in the 480p. π Fast battery drain on custom firmware (especially on LineageOS without optimizations). πΆ Problems with VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling on some operators.
π‘
If after unlocking the banking applications (Sberbank, Tinkoff) stopped working, install the MagiskHide Props Config module and activate the root hide mode. MIUI EU instead of a global version.