Obtaining superuser rights and the ability to install custom recavators are often the main reasons why enthusiasts choose Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO smartphones. However, before any manipulation of the system partition, the first and most important barrier must be overcome - the official unlocking of the bootloader. In 2026, this process has undergone significant changes, becoming more strict and requires a careful approach to the Mi Account account.
Users often face incomprehensible timer errors, account level requirements, or Mi Unlock’s complete failure to execute a command. These are not just bugs, but part of a sophisticated security system that protects the owner’s data from unauthorized access. Understanding the logic of the verification servers will help you avoid typical errors and save waiting days.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the current algorithms needed to successfully complete the procedure in the current environment, and we will look at the nuances of working with new versions of MIUI and HyperOS, and explain why some methods that worked before are no longer relevant.
Why do you need to unlock Bootloader?
Bootloader, or Bootloader, is a small program that runs before the operating system boots and checks the integrity of its signature, which is blocked by default on Xiaomi devices, which means that it prohibits the launch of any code that does not have the manufacturer's digital signature, which provides a high level of security, preventing the introduction of malware at the deep system level.
However, for advanced users, locking becomes a limitation: unlocking allows custom firmware such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience to be installed, which can give a second life to an old device or provide flagship functionality. In addition, only an unlocked bootloader allows you to obtain Root rights through Magisk or KernelSU, which is necessary for a deep modification of the system.
The unlock process automatically triggers a full Wipe Data reset to protect the previous owner’s information, and some high-security banking applications and services may stop working or require additional manipulation to hide the fact of interference.
⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader makes the device more vulnerable to Evil Maid attacks. BL, An attacker could theoretically replace the system partition and access your data if an additional encryption password is not set.
Another important aspect is the guarantee: although formally in some regions, unlocking is not a direct reason for denial of warranty service, in practice, it becomes more difficult to prove that a failure is not related to software modification.
Requirements and preparation of equipment
Before you start taking action, you need to make sure your device and computer are fully prepared for the procedure. In 2026, account requirements have become stricter: it is no longer enough to just register your email. Your Mi Account must be tied to the device from which you plan to unlock and have a certain activity history.
You'll need a Windows computer (optimum versions 10 or 11) or Linux to work with. macOS is possible, but requires additional software and drivers, which can be difficult for beginners. USB-cable, preferably original, comes with a package, as contact problems often lead to errors in step 99%.
Remember to back up all your important data. As mentioned, the unlocking process will permanently delete all files, photos and apps. Use Xiaomi Cloud, Google Drive or local copying on your PC. Make sure your smartphone battery is at least 60% so that the device doesn’t turn off at the most inopportune time.
☑️ Checklist of preparations for unlocking
Special attention should be paid to drivers. The ADB and Fastboot drivers must be installed correctly on the computer. Often users forget about this, and the computer simply does not see the device in bootloader mode. Verification is carried out through the Device Manager: there should be no unknown devices with exclamation marks in the Android Device section.
Step-by-step instructions: obtaining permission
The permission process starts directly in the smartphone settings. You need to activate the hidden menu for developers. → About the phone and find the line "Version" MIUI" or "Version." OS". Click on it 7 times in a row until the notification “You became a developer” appears".
Next, go to the menu Additional → For developers. You need to find the item "Mi Unlock Status" (Mi Unlock Status) and click on it. The system will ask you to confirm the action and warn about the risks. Once confirmed, you need to link the account to the device. Make sure you are logged in to the same account that you will use on your computer and that the device is on mobile Internet (Wi-Fi may not work for binding).
What to do if the status is not tied?
Once the link is successful, the waiting time will start counting down, depending on the region and the status of the account, it can be from 7 to 30 days, you can absolutely not interrupt this period or try to "cheat" the system by changing the date, the timer will reset. When the deadline expires, go back to Mi Unlock Status, and you will see a message about the possibility of unlocking.
Now, to your computer, download the current version of Mi Unlock from the official website. Launch it on behalf of the administrator, log in to your account. Put your phone in Fastboot mode: press Volume Down and Power on the device off at the same time. Connect the cable. In the program, press Unlock. If the timer has expired, the process will be successful.
Common mistakes and ways to solve them
Even if you follow all the instructions, you often have technical problems, and one of the most common mistakes is, "Couldn't verify device" or "Account and device mismatch." This means that the account you log into on your PC doesn't match the one you're stuck with on your phone. Check your email and phone number, and sometimes people confuse personal and work accounts.
Another common problem is 99 percent freeze. It says, "Unlocking...99 percent," and it stops. Most of the time, it's not a bug, it's a feature of the utility. Don't restart your phone or turn off your computer. It can take 5 to 30 minutes to flash partitions. Wait for "Unlocked successfully" to appear or for a message to try again.
| Error Code / Message | Probable cause | Method of decision |
|---|---|---|
| Current account is not the logging account | Sign in to Mi Unlock Tool from another account | Log out and log in to the same account as in your phone settings |
| Couldn't get device info | Problems with drivers or USB-cable | Replace the cable, switch the USB port, reinstall the drivers |
| Server error. Try again later | Problems on the side of Xiaomi servers | Wait 2-3 hours or use a VPN with another IP |
| Timer is not over | The mandatory waiting time has not passed | Waiting for the end of the term specified in the Mi Unlock status |
If you see a server-related error, try changing the network. Enterprise firewalls or ISPs sometimes block the connection to Xiaomi authorization servers. Using mobile internet via a smartphone or VPN can solve the connectivity problem.
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Use it. USB-port 2.0 instead 3.0/3.1 Despite the faster speed of the new standards, the ports USB 2.0 Often provide a more stable connection for older Fastboot protocols used in unlocking.
Unlocking Nuances on HyperOS
With the release of the HyperOS operating system, Xiaomi’s policy on unlocking the bootloader has become much tougher, and now it is often necessary to have a high-level account in the Mi Community to obtain permission, not just wait 7 days, but to have a high-level account in the Mi Community, which is done to combat dealers and scammers.
In some regions, the number of permissions to unblock is limited per day, if you get a refusal or a message that the limits are exhausted, it does not mean a ban. You need to be active in the ecosystem: visit forums, leave feedback, improve your trust rating, the system automatically reviews requests as you improve your status.
The developer menu interface has also changed on HyperOS, and the Mi Unlock status can be hidden deeper or require additional authorization via SMS. It is important to keep an eye on the updates to the instructions, as the verification algorithms are constantly being improved. For owners of flagship models of the Xiaomi 14/15 series, the process may be different from the budget Redmi Note.
⚠️ Warning: On new HyperOS devices, re-locking the bootloader after installing global firmware on a Chinese device can result in a “brick.” If you have changed the firmware region, leave the bootloader unlocked or make sure the software versions are fully matched.
Users note that HyperOS takes longer to run the first time after unlocking, that it does a deep file integrity check and can restart several times, that it's normal behavior that doesn't require any intervention, and that the key is not to interrupt power in the first few days. 10-15 minutes after the completion of the Mi Unlock utility.
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HyperOS has introduced a trust rating system: the more you use Xiaomi services and participate in the life of the community, the higher the chance to get permission to unlock on the first try.