The Xiaomi Mi 5, released in 2016, is still a legendary device thanks to its flagship Snapdragon 820 processor. However, the standard MIUI shell often limits the capabilities of advanced users, requiring full administrative access to the system.
The software modification process on Xiaomi devices has its own security features: you will need to go through the official bootloader unlocking procedure, without which further manipulation is impossible. Despite the apparent complexity, strict adherence to the instructions minimizes risks and turns your phone into a powerful tool for experimentation.
In this article, we will take a closer look at every step from applying to installing Magisk’s rights manager. It’s important to understand that any actions with the system partition carry potential risks. You need to be aware of the consequences of your actions and follow all the steps carefully, checking for compatibility of versions of the software.
Preparation of the device and necessary tools
Before you start any manipulations, you need to prepare the work environment. You need a Windows computer that is working properly. USB-cable and fully charged smartphone. Make sure the device is debugging on USB menu "For developers".
It is also critical to back up all data, and the process of unlocking the bootloader will completely clear the internal memory of the device, and save photos, contacts and documents to the cloud or to an external medium.
- 📱 The battery charge should be at least 60-70% to prevent shutdown at a critical moment.
- 💻 Install current drivers ADB Fastboot on your personal computer.
- 📥 Download the original firmware version for Xiaomi Mi 5 from the official website.
- 🔌 Use only original or quality certified USB-cable.
You'll need specific utilities to work with. Download the archive from ADB and Fastboot, and Mi Unlock to unlock the bootloader. All files must be placed in the C root folder or other handy directory without Cyrillic characters on the way.
⚠️ Note: Use of unoriginal cables can lead to a break in the connection during flashing, which often causes the "fixing" of the device.
☑️ Preparation for modification
Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader)
The first and mandatory step is to unlock the bootloader. TWRP First, link your Mi Account on your device to your phone number in the settings. SIM-card and account.
Once linked, you must apply for unlocking via the "Mi Unlock Status" app, which usually takes 3 to 7 days to review, and do not log out or reset your phone settings.
When he comes SMS-Notification of permission, you can start the procedure. Turn off your phone and enter Fastboot mode, holding the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously. Connect the device to your PC and launch the Mi Unlock utility.
fastboot oem unlockThis command is typed into the console if you're using the manual method, but it's easier to use the Mi Unlock GUI. Press the "Unlock" button and wait until the process is complete. The phone will restart and clear the data.
What to do if Mi Unlock is making an error?
Installation of custom TWRP Recovery
After successfully unlocking, the standard recovery menu is replaced with a modified one. There are multiple versions of TWRP for the Xiaomi Mi 5 (codenamed gemini), but it is recommended to use a stable build compatible with your version of Android.
Download the image file twrp.img And put it in a folder with ADB-Rename the file for convenience, for example, in recovery.img. Put your smartphone in Fastboot mode again.
In the command line, execute the command to firmware the image:
fastboot flash recovery recovery.imgAn important nuance for Xiaomi Mi 5: after firmware, you can not immediately boot into the system. You need to immediately press the Volume Up and Power buttons to get into the TWRP menu. If you boot into Android, the stock recaveri will overwrite TWRP, and the procedure will have to be repeated.
| Parameter | Meaning/Action | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Entry mode | Fastboot | Volume Down + Nutrition |
| Firmware team | fastboot flash recovery | Requires an unlocked BL |
| First launch | TWRP Recovery | Volume Up + Nutrition |
| File system | F2FS / EXT4 | F2FS is recommended for speed |
💡
It is critical not to boot into Android immediately after installing TWRP, otherwise the standard recavery will replace the modified one.
Installation of Superuser Rights through Magisk
Magisk is the modern standard for root access. Unlike the old methods (SuperSU), Magisk works systemlessly, which allows you to bypass security checks in banking applications and games.
Download the current one. APK-If you have a file on your phone or PC, rename it from.apk to.zip. TWRP recovery.
From the recaveri menu, select "Install." Find the archive from Magisk and confirm the swipe installation. After the procedure is complete, click "Reboot System."
- 🚀 After downloading, find the Magisk icon in the application menu.
- 🔒 The application may offer to install additional components – agree.
- 🔄 Check for root rights with Root Checker.
If you're successful, you'll have full control of the file system. You can now install interface-changing modules, audio drivers, or kernel settings. Xiaomi Mi 5 is popular for modules that improve DAC and speakers.
⚠️ Note: Do not install Magisk modules designed for other CPU models. This can lead to a cyclic reboot).
Possible errors and methods of their elimination
When modifying the software on Xiaomi Mi 5, there may be unexpected situations, often users face a problem when the phone hangs on the Mi logo or constantly reboots, in most cases this is solved by cleaning the cache and data through TWRP.
If the device is not detected by the computer in Fastboot mode, try replacing it. USB-Port or cable. Qualcomm drivers may also need to be manually installed HS-USB QDLoader 9008 if the phone is in deep boot mode.
In case of unsuccessful firmware and inability to boot the system, you will need to use the Mi Flash Tool utility to return to stock firmware in EDL mode. This will completely restore the software part of the smartphone.
Safety and return to factory condition
Having root rights reduces the overall security of the device, as malware can access critical data. Be careful when granting permissions to unknown applications. Regularly update Magisk to the latest version.
If you decide to sell the phone or return it to the service center, the root rights must be removed. The Magisk app has a feature called "Uninstall" that will restore the original boot image.
However, the Unlocked BL status will remain, requiring a re-routing of the stock backup and the use of the fastboot oem lock command, but this is only possible on a fully stock firmware.