Checking bootloader status on Xiaomi smartphones is a critical step before firmware, root rights or custom recovery. Many users face problems because they don’t know if their bootloader is unlocked, and official Mi Unlock verification methods don’t always give a definitive answer. In this article, we’ll look at how to accurately determine bootloader status using ADB, a versatile tool that works even on locked devices.
It is worth noting that the ADB (Android Debug Bridge) verification procedure does not require unlocking the bootloader or superuser rights, which makes it safe and accessible for any Xiaomi user, regardless of the model – be it the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, POCO X5 Pro or Mi 11 Ultra. However, it is important to understand that improper use of ADB can lead to malfunctions of the device, so follow the instructions carefully.
In this article you will find:
- 🔍 Step-by-step instructions for checking the status of the loader through ADB.
- 📱 List of commands and their decryption for different versions MIUI.
- ⚠️ Possible errors and ways to eliminate them.
- 🔄 Alternative methods of verification without ADB.
What is Xiaomi bootloader and why its status is important
A bootloader is a program that starts when you turn on your smartphone and is responsible for loading the operating system. On Xiaomi devices, it is blocked by default, which protects the system from unauthorized changes, but at the same time limits the user’s ability.
Why is it important to know the status of the bootloader?
- 🔓 Unlocked bootloader allows you to install custom firmware (Custom) ROM), Get root rights and modify the system.
- 🔒 The blocked bootloader limits the user to standard functions MIUI and official updates.
- ⚠️ Some operations (such as firmware via Fastboot) can permanently lock the device if the bootloader is not unlocked.
Xiaomi allows the bootloader to be unlocked through the official Mi Unlock Tool, but the process requires a Mi Account and wait (usually a wait-and-see). 7-15 Checking through ADB It helps to avoid unnecessary actions if the loader is already unlocked.
⚠️ Note: On some models (for example, Redmi Note 10 Pro with the MIUI 14) after unlocking the bootloader, Anti-Rollback protection may be activated, which blocks returns to older firmware versions!
Preparation for the test: what will be needed
To check the status of the bootloader through ADB, you will need to:
- 🖥️ Computer with Windows, macOS or Linux.
- 📱 Xiaomi smartphone with enabled debugging USB.
- 🔌 Cable USB Type-C (preferably original).
- 🛠️ Installed drivers ADB and Fastboot.
If you don’t already have ADB tools installed, download them from the official Android Studio website (Platform Tools section). Windows may also require installing Xiaomi drivers (you can find them on the official website).
Before connecting your smartphone, follow the following steps:
- Go to Settings → About phone and tap 7 times on the MIUI version to activate the developer mode.
- Return to Settings → Additional → For developers and enable:
Connect your smartphone to your computer and confirm the debugging permission.
☑️ Preparation for loader inspection
Checking the status of the loader through ADB: step-by-step instructions
Now, to the basic method, open the command prompt (CMD on Windows or Terminal on macOS/Linux) and execute the following commands:
- Go to the folder with ADB (if not added to PATH):
- Check the connection of the device:
- Transfer the device to Fastboot mode:
- After the reboot, run the command to check the status:
If the device is not defined in fastboot devices but is visible in adb devices, try:
- Disconnect and reconnect the smartphone.
- Perform adb kill-server, then adb start-server.
- Reinstall Fastboot drivers.
⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI 13/14 And Xiaomi has tightened security policy, and if you see an Anti-Rollback error when you check, it means that the device can't roll back to the old firmware after you unlock it!
What to do if the loader is blocked
If the check shows that the bootloader is locked (Device unlocked: false), you have two options:
- Official unlocking through Mi Unlock Tool:
Unofficial methods (at your own risk):
Some users use workarounds (for example, through the use of EDL-mode), but this can lead to a complete loss of warranty and "brick" of the device.
Once the bootloader is unlocked, the device will be reset to factory settings. Make sure you save all the important data!
💡
Officially unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool is the only secure way Xiaomi supports.All other methods can disrupt the device.
Safety and Risks: What You Need to Know
Unlocking the bootloader gives freedom of action, but also carries risks:
- 🛡️ Loss of warranty: Xiaomi may refuse warranty service if it detects unlocked bootloader.
- 🔄 Restrictions on Updates: Some OTA-Updates may not be installed on devices with unlocked bootloader.
- 🚨 Security vulnerabilities: Unlocked bootloader makes it easier to install malware.
If you unlocked the bootloader, but then changed your mind, you can block it again via Fastboot:
fastboot oem lock⚠️ Attention: Locking the bootloader also resets the device! Make sure it has official firmware installed, otherwise you risk getting a "brick".
On some models (for example, Mi 11 Lite) after locking the bootloader may need to flash through the Mi Flash Tool with the choice of clean all and lock option.