Root rights to Xiaomi Mi Max: a complete guide with unlocking the bootloader

The Xiaomi Mi Max, released in 2016, is still a popular device among Android enthusiasts due to its large screen, removable battery and potential for customization. However, the factory firmware of MIUI severely limits the user’s ability to remove system applications to fine-tune performance. Getting root rights allows you to remove these restrictions, but the process is far from as simple as on some other smartphones.

In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to get root on Xiaomi Mi Max (including Mi Max Prime and Mi Max 2 models), taking into account the features of the Qualcomm bootloader, Xiaomi’s unlock policy and potential risks. Importantly, the procedure is different from newer Xiaomi devices (for example, Redmi Note 10 or POCO X3), which uses Fastboot Unlock with a binding to the Mi Account. Here you will need to work with utilities like Mi Unlock Tool, TWRP and Magisk – and we will explain each step in detail.

Preparation of the device: what to do before unlocking

Before you start unlocking the bootloader and installing root, you need to follow several critical steps, skipping any of them can lead to a device blink (complete failure) or inability to complete the process.

First, check the MIUI version and build number in the Settings → About Phone menu. For Mi Max (codename hydrogen) and Mi Max Prime (helium), the current firmware is MIUI 12.5 (the latest official) or custom builds based on Android 7-10. If you have MIUI 9 or older, upgrade via Settings → System Update or manually via the Mi Flash Tool.

• 📱 Save all the data: unlocking the bootloader will reset the device to factory settings. Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive or local copying on your PC.
• 🔋 Charge the battery to 80% or more, interrupting the process due to discharge can make the phone a brick".
• 🖥️ Install drivers: download Mi PC Suite or drivers ADB/Fastboot manually (for example, through Minimal) ADB and Fastboot).
• 🔓 Link your Mi Account: without a confirmed Xiaomi account, unlocking the bootloader is not possible. Make sure your device is synced to your account.

Pay special attention to the bootloader version. The Mi Max may have an Anti-Rollback (ARB) that blocks rollbacks to older firmware versions. Check if the team in ADB has it:

adb shell getprop ro.boot.anti_version

If the command returns a value (e.g. 2 or 3), then the ARB is active, in which case you can not install firmware older than the one that is now.

USB debugging enabled in the developer settings

A Mi Account is linked and confirmed

Backup of all data (photos, contacts, SMS)

Installed ADB/Fastboot drivers on PC

Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool

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Unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool

Xiaomi allows you to unlock the bootloader legally, but the process is fraught with a number of restrictions: first, you will need a confirmed Mi Account (with a phone number attached); second, once unlocked, the device will be reset and the warranty canceled; third, Xiaomi can block unlocking on some regional firmware (for example, for Mi Max with firmware for India or China).

Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool from the official website (avoid third-party sources - they may contain viruses). Install the utility on your PC and follow the following steps:

1. Launch the Mi Unlock Tool on behalf of the administrator and log in to your Mi Account.
2. Turn off the Mi Max and press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot mode.
3. Connect your phone to your PC through USB-cable (preferably original).
4. In the utility, click Unlock. If done correctly, the countdown will begin (usually 72 hours for new accounts).
5. After the time, repeat the procedure - the loader will be unlocked.

⚠️ Note: If the Mi Unlock Tool gives you a "Couldn't unlock" or "Device not supported" error, then your account is not tied to the device. → Additionally. → Special facilities → For developers and link your account manually through the Mi Unlock Status item.

Once successfully unlocked, the phone will automatically restart and reset, and you can now start installing a custom recavator and getting root.

Install TWRP and get root through Magisk

With the bootloader unlocked, you can install custom TWRP recavators that allow you to flash modified images and get root rights. For Xiaomi Mi Max (hydrogen/helium), use special TWRP builds adapted for Qualcomm Snapdragon 650/652.

Download the current version of TWRP for your model from the official website or trusted forums (for example, XDA Developers). Note the bitwise firmware: for Mi Max it is usually arm64. You will also need the latest Magisk (download only from the developer's GitHub).

• 📁 Copy the files: twrp-3.7.0-hydrogen.img (or your version, in the folder with ADB PC-only; Magisk-v26.4.zip — internal memory of the phone (not in the folder!).
• 🔧 Please. TWRP Fastboot: Fastboot Flash Recovery twrp-3.7.0-hydrogen.img fastboot boot twrp-3.7.0-hydrogen.img
• 🔄 Launch Magisk: In TWRP press Install → choose Magisk-v26.4.zip → Swipe to confirm. Once installed, reboot the system).

If after installing Magisk, the phone is stuck on the Mi screensaver, it means that the firmware has dm-verity protection. TWRP plough Disable_Dm-Verity_ForceEncrypt.zip (find XDA) and re-install Magisk.

Alternative methods: unlocking through EDL and exploits

If the official method does not work (for example, due to the error "Device not supported"), you can try to unlock the bootloader through EDL (Emergency Download Mode), which is more risky, as it requires the use of informal tools and can lead to a complete loss of IMEI or modem inoperability.

To enter the EDL on the Mi Max, you will need:

1. Open the back cover and close the test points (contacts on the board) with tweezers or wires. For the Mi Max, these are usually contacts near the battery, designated as EDL or TEST.
2. Connect the phone to a PC – the device will be defined as Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
3. Use the Mi Flash Tool with firehose firmware to unlock.

⚠️ Attention: Testpoints require disassembly of the device and can damage the board if you do not act negligently. If you are not sure of your skills, you should consult a specialist. EDL Recovery may be required IMEI through QCN-file.

Another alternative is exploits to bypass the lock, such as the DirtyCOW vulnerability (CVE-2016-5195), which allowed rooting on Android 6-7 without unlocking the bootloader. However, on current Mi Max firmware, this method no longer works. Current exploits are searched for on forums like XDA or 4PDA, but their reliability and security are not guaranteed.

Root rights check and the first steps after installation

Once you have successfully installed Magisk, you need to make sure that the root rights are working correctly. Download a validation application from Magisk Manager (or Magisk app) like Root Checker. Run it and press Verify Root. If you see the message "Congratulations! Root access is properly installed...", then it's a success.

Now you can start setting up the system, and here are some useful steps after you get root:

• 🧹 Bloate Removal: Use Titanium Backup or SD Maid to remove system applications (e.g. Mi Browser, Mi Music, Analytics) Be careful - removing critical services (e.g. MiuiSystemUI) will lead to system failure.
• ⚡ Optimize performance: install Magisk modules like Universal GMS Doze (for battery saving) or FDE.AI (speed up animation).
• 🔒 backup NVRAM: Keep a backup copy of the section NVRAM (responsible IMEI and MAC-address TWRP utility MTK/NV Tools.
• 📡 Network modification: with root you can activate VoLTE on unofficial firmware or change bands 4G through QTI Telephony.

Keep security in mind: root rights not only open up system files to you, but also to potential malware, install a firewall (e.g. AFWall+) and disable root for unreliable applications in Magisk settings.

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If after receiving root, banking applications (for example, Sberbank or Tinkoff) stopped working, install the Magisk MagiskHide Props Config module and activate the root hide function. Also, changing the device fingerprint to a certified one (for example, from the Pixel 3 XL) will help.

Solving common problems after getting root

Even if you followed the instructions, after getting root on Xiaomi Mi Max, there may be problems.

1.The phone does not turn on or is fixated on the Mi logo

This is a typical problem with incorrect firmware boot partition or conflict of modules Magisk.

• Boot to TWRP (click Volume Up + Power).
• Remove all installed Magisk modules via Modules in the menu.
• Reflash boot.img from the original firmware: fastboot flash boot.img
• If it doesn’t work, do a full reset via Wipe → Format Data (Warning: Delete all data!).

2. Mobile network or Wi-Fi is not working

The reason is usually due to damage to the NVRAM partition or incompatibility of Magisk modules that change network settings.

• Check the IMEI with *#06#. If it is missing or replaced by 0, restore the NVRAM from the backup.
• Disable modules associated with the modem (e.g. Network Speed Indicator).
• Fastboot: fastboot flash modemst1 modemst1.img fastboot flash modemst1 modemst1.img fastboot flash modemst2 modemst2.img

3. apps don't see root (Magisk doesn't work)

If Magisk is installed, applications like Root Explorer or Titanium Backup are not available:

• Update the Magisk app to the latest version.
• In Magisk settings, enable Zygisk and Enforce DenyList.
• Add the problem app to DenyList (formerly MagiskHide).
• Reset the device.

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If you have to manipulate the root, you can always bring it back to life through the original ROM firmware in Fastboot mode, so don't panic and follow the recovery instructions.

Safety and Risks: What to Know Before Getting Root

Root rights give you complete control of your device, but with them come serious risks.

• 🚨 Loss of warranty: Xiaomi cancels warranty when unlocking the bootloader.Even if you return it all back, the service center may detect signs of interference.
• 🛡️ Security vulnerabilities: root allows access to system files for malware, such as a Trojan that can obtain superuser rights and steal bank card data.
• 🔄 Unstable operation: Incorrect Magisk modules or removal of system applications can lead to permanent reboots, overheating or rapid battery discharge.
• 📵 Problems with OTA-Updates: After receiving root, automatic updates MIUI They won't work. They'll have to hand-stitch new versions.

To minimize the risks, follow the following rules:

• Install Magisk modules only from trusted sources (official repository or XDA).
• Make backups regularly through TWRP (especially before installing new modules).
• Use a firewall (such as AFWall+) to block network access from suspicious applications.
• Don’t delete system applications unless you’re sure they’re there, for example, deleting MiuiDaemon will cause MIUI to crash.

If you use the Mi Max as your primary device (for example, for work or banking), weigh the pros and cons. ADB-Xposed Framework (if supported by your version of Android).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions