How to get a root rights on Xiaomi Mi8: a complete guide with unlocking the bootloader

Introduction: why you need root rights to Xiaomi Mi8

The Xiaomi Mi8, released in 2018, is still popular among Android enthusiasts thanks to its powerful hardware (Snapdragon 845, 6/8 GB of RAM) and strong support for custom firmware. However, the MIUI factory shell, even in current versions 14/15, limits the user: blocks system files, imposes advertising and deprives control over hardware. Getting root rights solves these problems, but requires caution – wrong actions can turn a device into a “brick”.

In this article, we will discuss the only working method in 2026 for obtaining root rights for the Xiaomi Mi8, including unlocking the bootloader, installing a custom TWRP recap and Magisk firmware. Importantly, the procedure cancels the warranty and can disrupt the operation of banking applications (due to the SafetyNet trigger).

Preparation of the device: what to do before unlocking

Before starting the procedure, make sure your Mi8 meets the following key requirements:

• 📱 Device model: only MI8 (codename dipper. Mi8 SE (sirius Mi8 Pro instructions are not suitable!
• 🔋 Battery charge: at least 70%, interruption of the process due to discharge is fraught with hard-brick (irreparable damage).
• 📁 Backup: Copy photos, contacts and files on your PC – unlocking the bootloader will reset the device to factory settings.
• 🖥️ Computer: You will need a Windows PC 10/11 (or Linux/macOS with additional drivers) and USB-cable (preferably original).

Also check the MIUI version in settings (Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version). If it is older than 12.5, update the device via Settings → System Update. Older versions of MIUI may contain vulnerabilities that block unlocking.

⚠️ Attention: If yours Mi8 When you purchased it in China (domestic version), unlocking the bootloader may require you to link to your Chinese Mi Account, in which case use the international firmware via the Mi Flash Tool before starting the procedure.

Step 1: Unlock the bootloader (Bootloader)

Xiaomi’s factory bootloader is locked, and unlocking it is a must before getting a root license, which takes 72 to 168 hours (3 to 7 days) due to the company’s security policy.

1. Connect your device to your Mi Account: Go to Settings → Mi Account → Sign in and log in. Make sure your account settings include the Data Sync option.
2. Activate Developer Mode: Open Settings → About Phone and 7 times click on the MIUI Version. Return to the main settings menu - the option Additional → For Developers will appear.
3. Put the debugging on. USB unlock OEM: In the Developer Menu, activate: 🔧 Debugging by USB 🔓 Unlocking OEM (may require input PIN-code)

Now connect the Mi8 to your PC and confirm debugging permission on your smartphone screen. Download the official Mi Unlock Tool (version at least 5.5.224.24) and launch it on behalf of the administrator. Sign in with the same Mi Account as your phone.

The utility will show a waiting timer (usually 168 hours). Do not disconnect the device from the account during this period - the timer will reset. At the end of the period, press Unlock in the program. If the process is completed successfully, the phone will restart with the unlocked bootloader.

Step 2: Installation of custom TWRP Recovery

Once the bootloader is unlocked, the next step is to install the TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project), a customized backup that will allow you to install modified firmware and patches. For the Xiaomi Mi8 (dipper), use the official TWRP build 3.7.0 or later.

Download the file. twrp-3.7.0_dipper.img from the official website and transfer it to the folder with ADB/Fastboot On the PC:

1. Turn the phone into Fastboot mode: Turn off the device, then press the Power Button + Volume Down before the Fastboot logo appears.
2. Connect the Mi8 to your PC and check the connection with the command: fastboot devices will display the serial number of the device in response.
3. Please. TWRP: fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0_dipper.img Then reboot to Recavator: fastboot boot twrp-3.7.0_dipper.img

If after the reboot MIUI automatically replaces the TWRP with a stock Recovery, repeat the firmware and immediately after the command fastboot boot execute in TWRP:

adb shell


echo "SET_TWRP=1" >> /data/.twrptemp

⚠️ Attention: Some versions MIUI 14/15 block TWRP In this case, you need to pre-sweeten the patch. disable_anti_rollback.zip (You can download it on the forum XDA Developers).

Step 3: Magisk firmware to obtain root rights

Magisk is a universal tool for obtaining root rights without changing the systemless root, it also bypasses SafetyNet, which is critical for banking applications. Download the latest version of Magisk (at the time of writing - v26.4) from GitHub.

Installation instructions:

1. Copy the Magisk-v26.4.zip file to your phone’s internal memory or microSD.
2. Reboot to TWRP (press the Power button + Volume up when the phone is off).
3. In TWRP, select Install, specify the path to Magisk-v26.4.zip, and swipe for confirmation.
4. After installation, restart to the system (Reboot → System).

To check for root rights, install the Root Checker app from Play Market or enter:

su

If an input invitation (#) appears, the root is successfully activated.

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After installing Magisk, open its settings and enable the option “MagiskHide” (or “Zygisk” in newer versions) to hide the root from banking applications.

Solving common problems

Even with the exact instructions, Xiaomi Mi8 users face typical errors, and the following are ways to fix them:

If you have manipulated Magisk, try resetting your phone via TWRP (Wipe → Format Data), but note that this will delete all data.

Alternative methods of obtaining root

If the standard method with Magisk didn’t work, consider alternatives:

• 🔄 Patched Boot Image: Download the modified boot.img for your version MIUI (for example, XDA Developers, run it through fastboot flash boot patched_boot.img, Then install Magisk in Direct Install mode.
• 📦 Custom firmware: Install firmware based on LineageOS or Pixel Experience — they already include root rights. MIUI (For example, the “Dual Annexes” mode»).
• 🔧 OneClick Scripts: Automated Tools Like MTK Easy Tool or XiaomiTool V2 It simplifies the process, but does not work on all versions. MIUI.

Android 12+ firmware (e.g. MIUI 13/14) may require a rollback on Android 11 (MIUI 12.5), as the newer versions are heavily protected from modifications. Use the Mi Flash Tool for downgrade, but remember: this will reset all data.

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On the Xiaomi Mi8 with MIUI 14/15, root rights can be obtained ONLY through Magisk + rollback bypass patch. Other methods (KingRoot, SuperSU) do not work or are blocked after the reboot.

Security and Restrictions After Getting Root

Root rights offer opportunities, but also pose risks:

• 🛡️ Security: Vulnerabilities in system files can be exploited by malware.Install Firewall (e.g. AFWall)+) Disable unnecessary permissions for applications.
• 🏦 Banking applications: Sberbank, Tinkoff and others block work on rooted devices.The solution is the MagiskHide Props Config or SafetyNet Fix modules.
• 🔄 Updates MIUI: After receiving root rights update "by air» (OTA) You can install the firmware manually through the TWRP.
• 🔋 Battery: Some Magisk modules (e.g., overclocking) CPU) Reduce battery life. Monitor charge consumption through AccuBattery.

To minimize risks, regularly update Magisk and modules, and avoid installing untested ones. ZIP-Use the backup system data TWRP Swift Backup (requires root).

FAQ: Frequent questions about root on Xiaomi Mi8