How to unlock Bootloader on Xiaomi smartphone: a complete guide with risks and nuances

Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones is a procedure that allows you to deep-tube the system, install custom firmware and obtain superuser rights, but this process comes with risks ranging from loss of warranty to complete bricking of the device. So why are users taking this step? For some, it's an opportunity to install Global. ROM Chinese version of smartphone, for others – a way to get rid of advertising in the Internet MIUI, For enthusiasts, the path to experimenting with Android at a low level.

Unlike most manufacturers, Xiaomi officially allows unlocking the bootloader, but with a number of restrictions. The company requires that the Mi Account account be linked to the device and maintains a mandatory waiting period (from 7 to 360 hours), This is done to protect users from random actions, but often becomes an obstacle for those who want to quickly flash the device. In this article, we will analyze all the stages of unlocking, from preparation to final flashing, and also tell you what Xiaomi models have features in this process.

It is worth noting that since 2023, Xiaomi has tightened its unlock policy for some regions, such as on firmware devices. MIUI EU We can take these nuances into account and provide up-to-date data for 2026.

If you have never worked with ADB, Fastboot or tools like the Mi Unlock Tool, don't worry, we'll explain each step in as much detail as possible, but remember, unlocking the bootloader resets the device to factory settings and erases all data.

What is Bootloader and why is it blocked?

Bootloader is a program that starts when you turn on your smartphone before you start the operating system, checks the integrity of the firmware and determines which components of the system you can run. On Xiaomi devices, the bootloader is locked by default, which means:

• 🔒 Protection against unauthorized changes: it is impossible to install unofficial software or modify system files.
• 🛡️ Security: Locking prevents malicious code from running at a low level.
• 📱 Compatibility: ensures stable operation of the firmware MIUI conflictless.

Manufacturers block the bootloader not only for security, but also for control of the ecosystem, for example, Xiaomi thus restricts the installation of firmware from third-party developers that can disrupt the work of branded services (such as Mi Cloud or Mi Pay), but for experienced users, blocking becomes an obstacle to full freedom of action with their device.

Unlocking bootloader gives the following features:

• 🔄 Install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience).
• 👨‍💻 Getting root rights through Magisk or SuperSU.
• 🌍 Reflashing the regional version (with China) ROM on Global/EU ROM).
• 🔧 Removal of system applications and advertising in MIUI.

But there is a downside: an unlocked bootloader deprives you of an official warranty (if the device is purchased from authorized stores), and also increases the risk of installing malware. In addition, some banking applications (for example, SberBank Online or Tinkoff) may stop working due to the SafetyNet trigger.

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If you plan to unlock bootloader only to remove ads, consider alternatives: in the settings MIUI You can turn off personalized advertising (path: Settings) → Privacy → Advertising → Disable personalization).

Preparing for Unlocking: What to Do in advance

Before you start unlocking, make sure all the preconditions are met. This stage is critical – skipping at least one item can lead to errors or inability to complete the process.

1. Check the model and firmware version

Not all Xiaomi devices support official unlocking, such as the series of smartphones. POCO (especially new models like POCO X6 Pros may have additional limitations, check the compatibility of your model on the official Xiaomi website or in thematic communities (for example, in the case of the company, 4PDA).

2. Create a backup copy of the data

Unlocking bootloader completely erases all data on the device, including photos, contacts and apps. Use Mi Cloud, Google Drive or local copy on your PC. Note that some data (such as saving games) may not be restored after firmware.

3.Make sure that your Mi Account is linked to your device

Without a Xiaomi account, unlocking is impossible. Check this in the settings: Settings → Xiaomi account → Devices. If your device is not displayed, log in again.

4. Enable debugging on USB unlock OEM

These options are hidden in the developer menu to activate:

5. Install the necessary drivers and tools on the PC

You'll need:

• 🖥️ Mi Unlock Tool (official utility from Xiaomi).
• 🔌 Drivers. ADB Fastboot (can be installed via Minimal) ADB and Fastboot or Platform Tools by Google).
• 🔗 Cable USB Type-C (preferably original, as cheap cables can cause connection errors).

Battery charge > 60%|Backup copy of data created|Mi Account is tied to the device|Debugging is on. USB and unlock OEM|Mi Unlock Tool and drivers installed ADB-->

If you are using Windows, make sure that driver signature check is disabled (this may prevent you from installing Fastboot drivers). on macOS or Linux, additional drivers are not usually required, but you may need to install adb and fastboot packages through the terminal.

The official way to unlock through Mi Unlock Tool

This is the only Xiaomi-supported method that guarantees minimal risks (subject to the instructions), and the process consists of three stages: account binding, waiting, and unlocking.

Step 1: Linking your account to your device

1. Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website (the version must match your firmware).
2. Launch the utility and log in under the same Mi Account as on your smartphone.
3. Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (turn off the device, then press Volume Down + Power before the Fastboot logo appears).
4. In Mi Unlock Tool, press Unlock and the program will start checking the data.

Stage 2: Waiting (72-360 hours)

Once successfully anchored, Xiaomi will set a waiting period, which depends on the model and the region:

• 📅 72 hours for most global models (e.g. Redmi Note 12, POCO F5).
• ⏳ 168-360 hours for Chinese versions ROM) or new flagships (for example, Xiaomi 14).

This timer cannot be bypassed officially, and attempts to reset time or use informal tools will result in the account being blocked.

Stage 3: Final Unlocking

After the waiting period has expired:

1. Reconnect your phone in Fastboot mode.
2. Open the Mi Unlock Tool and press Unlock.
3. Confirm the action on the smartphone screen (if necessary).
4. Wait for the message Unlocked successfully.

Once unlocked, the device will automatically reset to factory settings. Now you can flash custom recovery (TWRP) or installing unofficial firmware.

Unblocking methods: risks and alternatives

If the official method is not available for some reason (for example, the Mi Unlock Tool does not support your model), users resort to alternative methods.

1.Use of the Mi Unlock Tool patched versions

Some developers are modifying the official utility to bypass latency restrictions. For example, the XiaomiTool tool V2 Automates the process, but can lead to a ban on the Mi Account.

2. Unlock through EDL-regimen (Qualcomm)

Devices on Qualcomm processors (e.g. Redmi Note 11, POCO X3 Pro) can be unlocked in mode EDL (Emergency Download Mode) with tools like Mi Flash Pro or QFil, but this requires a new tool:

• 🔧 Authorized Xiaomi account with rights EDL (It is almost impossible to obtain them legally).
• 💻 Knowledge of working with QC Firehose with software files.

Incorrect actions in EDL They can turn the phone into a “brick” that won’t turn on even after flashing.

3. Exploits for older models

On some devices (for example, Xiaomi Mi). A1/A2 or Redmi 4X) There are vulnerabilities that allow you to unlock the bootloader without waiting, but they close with each update. MIUI, And using them requires a deep knowledge of Android.

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Any unofficial unlock methods violate the warranty and may result in the blocking of your Mi Account. If you are not sure about your actions, it is better to wait for the official unlock through the Mi Unlock Tool.

What Xiaomi models have features when unlocking?

Not all Xiaomi smartphones unlock the same. Below is a table with nuances for popular models:

If your model is not in the table, check the information in the forums. XDA Developers or 4PDA. For example, devices on Mediatek processors (like Redmi 10 or the Redmi). POCO M4 Pro) may require additional steps such as unlocking SP Flash Tool.

Attention the Chinese versions!

Smartphones with firmware China ROM (for example, Xiaomi 12S Ultra often has additional limitations:

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Before buying Xiaomi, check out the firmware version.Chinese models (CN ROM) cheaper, but their unlocking and flashing is more difficult than the global versions.

What to do after unlocking Bootloader?

Once you unlock successfully, you get full control of the device, but that's just the beginning.

Installation of custom recovery (TWRP)

TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project is an alternative recovery menu that allows you to install the game. ZIP-Firmware, backups, root rights:

1. Download the official TWRP for your model from twrp.me.
2. Restart your phone to Fastboot and connect to your PC.
3. The command is fastboot flash recovery. twrp-3.7.0-xxx.img
4. Reboot to TWRP (click Volume Up + Power).

2. Getting root rights through Magisk

Magisk is the most popular root tool for obtaining without violating SafetyNet (which is important for the operation of banking applications).

1. Download the latest version of Magisk (APK + ZIP) GitHub.
2. Install Magisk. APK regular-app.
3. V TWRP scoop up Magisk ZIP.
4. Reboot and check root through the app.

Installation of custom firmware

Popular firmware for Xiaomi:

• 🌍 MIUI EU — A non-advertising version with weekly updates.
• 🤖 Pixel Experience – Pure Android with Google Pixel Features.
• 🔄 LineageOS – stable firmware with open source.

Before installing, be sure to check the firmware compatibility with your model on the forum XDA.

4.Restore SafetyNet for banking applications

After rooting, many apps (like Google Pay or SberBank) stop working.

• In Magisk, activate the MagiskHide option (or Zygisk in newer versions).
• Install the Universal SafetyNet Fix module.
• Check SafetyNet status through the YASNAC app.

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After unlocking the bootloader, never update the firmware through OTA (This can lead to the bootloader being blocked again, all updates must be installed manually through the TWRP or Fastboot.

Possible problems and solutions

Even if you follow the instructions, you can make mistakes, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

1.The device is not defined in Fastboot

If your PC doesn’t see your phone in Fastboot mode:

• 🔌 Check the cable and port USB (Try the port USB 2.0 on the back of the PC).
• 🖥️ Reinstall the drivers ADB via Device Manager.
• 🔄 Reboot your phone in Fastboot again (sometimes the fastboot reboot bootloader command helps).

2.Couldn't unlock error in Mi Unlock Tool

Causes and solutions:

• ⏳ Waiting time is not over – check the timer in your Mi Account.

3.The phone got stuck on the logo MI post-unlock

This is what's called a soft brick.

4. Loss of IMEI or serial number

This is a critical error that occurs when the firmware is incorrect. IMEI through:

• 📡 QCN-File (backup required before unlocking).
• 🔧 Engineering menu (code ##4636## or #36446337##).
• 🖥️ Specialized utilities like Maui META (for Mediatek or QPST (for Qualcomm).

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Bootloader on Xiaomi

If your question is not on the list, we recommend you to search for an answer in the forums. 4PDA or XDA Developers, which has a lot of guides on specific Xiaomi models, remember that the unlock procedure is always a risk, and before you start it, you should weigh the pros and cons".