The bootloader on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones is a software component that controls the operating system’s startup process, and the manufacturer blocks it by default to protect against unauthorized changes, but this creates problems for users who want to install custom firmware or obtain root rights.
In this article, you will find current ways to check bootloader locks on Xiaomi devices (including models from 2023-2026), and understand what Locked, Unlocked and Relocked statuses mean. We avoid general phrases and give specific instructions based on the latest MIUI updates and company policies.
Why it is important to know the status of the bootloader
The locking of the loader affects:
- 🔧 The ability to install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience).
- 🔓 Getting root rights through Magisk or SuperSU.
- 🔄 Restore the device after a “brick” (if the bootloader is locked, some recovery methods will not work).
- 📱 Update firmware via Fastboot (locked bootloader requires official unlocking).
Since 2021, Xiaomi has tightened its unlock policy, requiring a Mi Account to be linked to a device and waiting up to 720 hours (30 days) after the first link, and if you plan to unlock, a status check will help you avoid unnecessary actions.
Method 1: Checking through Fastboot mode (most reliable)
This method works on all Xiaomi models, including the new Xiaomi 14, Redmi Note 13 and POCO F6. You will need a computer with drivers installed. ADB/Fastboot and USB-cable.
- Turn off your smartphone.
- Press the buttons Loud down + Power before the Fastboot logo appears.
- Connect the device to the PC.
- Open the command line (cmd) and enter:
fastboot devicesIf the device is identified (a serial number will appear), enter:
fastboot oem device-infoIn the answer, find the lines:
- Device unlocked: true → bootloader unlocked.
- Device unlocked: false → bootloader is locked.
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If the fastboot oem device-info command doesn’t work, try fastboot getvar unlocked. On some models (e.g. Redmi 10C), it will give the result in the unlocked format: yes/no.
Method 2: Verification through MIUI settings (without PC)
On devices with MIUI 12-14, the status of the bootloader can be found directly in the settings menu, but this method does not work on all firmware (especially on custom ones).
- Open the Settings. → The phone.
- Click 7 times on the MIUI version to activate Developer Mode.
- Return to the main settings menu and select Additional → For developers.
- Find the status of the bootloader (Mi Unlock Status).
Possible statuses:
| Status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blocked. | The bootloader is closed, firmware changes are impossible. | Official unlocking is required through the Mi Unlock Tool. |
| Unlocked. | You can install custom firmware and get root. | Beware of installing unverified firmware! |
| Linked to the account | The device is tied to the Mi Account, but the bootloader is locked. | You need to wait until the unlock timer ends (up to 720 hours). |
What if the "Status of the bootloader" item is not in the settings?
Method 3: Applications for checking the status of the loader
If the first two methods didn’t work, you can use third-party utilities, we tested them on the Xiaomi 13 Pro and Redmi Note 12 with MIUI 14.
- 📱 Bootloader Status (from) XDA Developers – shows the status and version of the bootloader.
- 🔍 MIUI Hidden Settings – reveals hidden settings, including bootloader information.
- 🛠️ DevCheck – displays technical details of the device, including the unlock status.
Important: Install apps only from Google Play or verified sources (such as XDA).Some utilities from third-party stores may contain malicious code.
Install the app from the official store |
Provide all necessary permits |
Check the reviews about the app (avoid versions rated below 4.0)|
Make a backup copy of the data in case of failure-->
Method 4: Checking through ADB (for power users)
This method works if you have access to ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and works even on locked devices, but requires developer mode to be enabled.
- Activate debugging over USB in the developer settings.
- Connect your smartphone to your PC and type in the command line:
adb shell getprop ro.boot.verifiedbootstatePossible answers:
- Orange - the bootloader is unlocked.
- green - the loader is locked.
On some models (such as the POCO X5 Pro), the command can give you the unknown, in which case use the method with the Fastboot.
Method 5: Visual Signs of an Unlocked Booter
If you don’t have access to a PC or don’t want to install apps, pay attention to the indirect signs:
- 🔓 When you turn on the device, an unlock warning appears (Orange: Unlocked or This device is unlocked).
However, these signs do not give a 100% guarantee, for example, on some firmwares, the unlock warning may not appear even if the bootloader is open.
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If you bought a smartphone with your hands, the visual signs of unlocking may indicate that the previous owner has already manipulated the firmware, which is an excuse to check the device for viruses or unofficial modifications.
What to do if the loader is blocked
If the check showed that the bootloader is locked, you have two options:
- Unlocking with Mi Unlock Tool: 📌 Link Mi Account to your device. 🕒 Wait 720 hours (30 days) is Xiaomi’s requirement from 2021. 🖥️ Use the official Mi Unlock Tool utility on PC.
- Unofficial methods (at your own risk): 🔗 Use of exploits (e.g. DirtyCOW for older models). 📦 Installation of firmware through EDL-Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account).
⚠️ Warning: Unofficial unlocking methods can result in a total loss of warranty, as well as a Mi Account lock for breach of usage rules. On new models (released after 2022), most exploits do not work.
If you are not sure about your actions, it is better to contact the Xiaomi service center or to the trusted specialists in smartphone repair.
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When checking the status of the loader, users often face the following problems:
- 🚫 Device not defined in Fastboot: Check drivers (Qualcomm) HS-USB QDLoader 9008 for Xiaomi, try another one USB-cable.
- ❌ The fastboot oem device-info command returns the error: On some models (e.g. Redmi). 9A) You need to use fastboot getvar all and search for the unlocked line.
- 🔄 bootloader status changes after update: Xiaomi can automatically block bootloader after official updates.Always check status after update.
⚠️ Note: On devices with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi) 10A or POCO M5) Some Fastboot commands may not work due to manufacturer restrictions. ADB or specialized utilities.