Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and how it affects the user
Bootloader unlock on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones is a procedure that makes it impossible to install custom firmware, obtain root rights or restore a device via Fastboot after a major failure. The company deliberately introduces a mandatory wait (from 72 hours to 360 days) to protect users from fraud, data theft and unauthorized access to system partitions.
Since 2023, Xiaomi has tightened its security policy: even official unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool requires linking the Mi Account to the device and confirming identity. SIM-So it's important not only to know how to check the remaining time, but also how to avoid zeroing it.
This article covers all the current ways to check the unlock timer, including hidden methods through ADB and Fastboot, as well as error solving like “Couldn’t verify device” or “Waiting time not completed”.
Checking with Mi Unlock Tool
The most reliable method is to use Xiaomi’s proprietary Mi Unlock Tool, which not only shows the remaining time, but also allows you to start the unlock process after the expiration date, and you can download it from the official website (the Windows version).
Instructions for verification:
- 📥 Download and install the Mi Unlock Tool (check that the version is not older than 2026).
- 🔌 Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (turn off the device, then press Volume down). + Nutrition).
- 🖥️ Launch the utility, log in under the same Mi Account that is linked to the phone.
- ⏳ Click Unlock Now – the program will show a message with the exact time (for example, "72 hours remaining").
If the timer is replaced by an error "This account is not bound to the device", then the account is not tied to the phone. You can fix this via Settings → Xiaomi Account → Data Sync (you need to turn on all switches).
Install drivers ADB/Fastboot|Enable debugging on USB developer-setting|Link Mi Account to your device|Disable the antivirus (can block the utility)|Use the original USB-cable-->
Hidden methods: check without Mi Unlock Tool
If the official utility doesn't work (for example, due to IP lock or server errors), alternative methods can be used. They are less accurate, but they help estimate the approximate latency.
1. via ADB (without unlocking)
This method is suitable for devices with USB debugging enabled. Connect the phone to the PC, open the command prompt and type in:
adb shell dumpsys activity service com.xiaomi.unlockFind the line in the conclusion "unlock_time" — Time will be specified in the timetamp format (for example, 1735689600). To convert it to a date, use sites like Epoch Converter.
2. via Fastboot (for locked phones)
If the phone is not turned on but is detected in Fastboot, follow the command:
fastboot oem device-infoIn the results, pay attention to the parameters:
- Device unlocked: false – the bootloader is locked.
- Unlockability: 1 – Unlockability is possible after waiting.
- Waiting time: 72 - The remaining watches (not on all models)
Why can a timer reset to 360 days?
Errors in checking time and their solutions
The two most common problems users face are the utility doesn't show a timer or the account's anchor error, and here's how to solve them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn't verify device | Mi Account mismatch or lack of binding | Re-link your account in your phone settings and reboot. |
| Network error | IP blocking or problems with Xiaomi servers | Use a VPN (like ProtonVPN) or try again later |
| Waiting time not completed | Timer's not over yet. | Wait for the specified time or check through ADB |
| This device is locked | The device is locked by the operator (for example, MTS or Beeline) | Contact the operator to unlock the SIM-lock |
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If the Mi Unlock Tool gives an error "Current account is different from the account info on the device", try to delete the Mi Account on your phone, reboot and re-add it with the same login.
Xiaomi models with increased waiting time
Starting in 2022, Xiaomi has differentiated unlock times based on model and region of sale, for example, flagship devices (Xiaomi 14, Mix Fold 3) can require up to 360 days of waiting, while budget Redmi (Redmi 12C, POCO M6 Pro) – only 72-168 hours.
Examples of timings for popular models (2023-2026):
- 📱 Xiaomi 13T/14, Mix Fold 2/3 — before 360 days if the account is new).
- 📱 Redmi Note 12 Pro+, POCO F5 — 168-336 hours.
- 📱 Redmi A2+, POCO C55 — 72 hours.
- 📱 Devices for the Chinese market (CN-Up to 720 days (without official unblocking support).
To find out the exact date for your model, check it on the official MIUI website in the section "Unlock Bootloader".
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On Qualcomm Snapdragon processor devices (like the Redmi K70), the unlock timer can be reset when you update your firmware. Always check the time after the update!
How to speed up unlocking: myths and reality
There are tips on how to bypass waiting online, from changing your account region to using cloud-based unlock services, most of which don't work or lead to a complete IMEI lockdown.
- ✅ Account binding in advance: If you add Mi Account before you buy a phone (for example, when you set up a new device), the waiting time can be reduced to 24 hours.
- ✅ Regular synchronization: enable automatic data synchronization in your account settings (this confirms active use of your device).
- ❌ Changing the region of the account: it does not help, but can lead to blocking.
- ❌ Mi Unlock Tool: 90% of these programs contain viruses or spyware.
The only legal way to reduce the wait is to contact Xiaomi’s service center with proof of purchase (check, warranty card).In some cases, they can reset the timer to 72 hours, but this does not work for all regions.
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If you are buying a used Xiaomi phone with an unlocked bootloader, be sure to check the status through fastboot oem device-info. If the Device unlocked: true option, but the phone was previously in another user's Mi Account, it can be locked remotely!
What to do if the timer is zeroed or got stuck
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the meter is suddenly reset for up to 360 days or freezes on one value.
⚠️ Note: If you have changed IMEI Xiaomi may find the device "unoriginal" and block unlocking forever. IMEI before the procedure.
- 🔄 Reset after update: if the timer is reset after the update MIUI, Return to the previous firmware version via Fastboot (instructions on XiaomiUI).
- 📡 Server problems: If the Mi Unlock Tool shows "Server busy", try connecting via mobile Internet (not Wi-Fi).
- 🔑 Change Account: If you change your Mi Account, link a new account and wait 72 hours – sometimes it resets the timer.
If nothing helps, create a ticket in support of Xiaomi with logs from Mi Unlock Tool (MiUnlock.log file in the folder with the utility).
- Phone model and build number (Settings → About phone → MIUI version).
- The date of the first Mi Account binding.
- Screenshot of the error.