Why Xiaomi is blocked and what to do
Xiaomi smartphones are blocked for two main reasons: activation of Mi Account protection (link to the account) or hardware lock after resetting. The first situation is typical for devices purchased from hands - the previous owner did not untie the account, and after resetting the phone requires the username / password. The second occurs when you incorrectly update the firmware or try to unlock the bootloader without authorization.
The manufacturer deliberately complicates the bypass of the lock: it is a measure against theft and unauthorized access. However, there are legal ways of unlocking β from official (via Xiaomi support) to technical (Fastboot and EDL modes).
In this article, we will look at all the current ways of unlocking in 2026, their pros/cons and step-by-step instructions, starting with the safest and ending with radical measures for experienced users.
Method 1: Officially Delete Mi Account with Xiaomi Support
The most reliable, but long-lasting method is to contact Xiaomi support with proof of ownership of the device, which is suitable if you bought a smartphone with your hands and you have:
- π Check or contract of sale (even handwritten) with indication IMEI device.
- π¦ A phone box with a serial number that matches the IMEI customized.
- π³ Bank statement about the transfer of money to the previous owner (if the purchase was through a card).
The process takes 3 to 14 days, and support can request IMEI photos (under the battery or in the tray of the phone via the code *#06#), serial number, and even video of the device, and if the documents are in order, the account will be untied remotely.
π‘
Before contacting in support, check the IMEI on the official Xiaomi website at mi.com/global/verify β this will speed up the process.
β οΈ Note: Xiaomi support does not work with devices purchased on AliExpress or other sites without an official warranty in your region.
Method 2: Bypass locking via Fastboot mode (for firmware up to MIUI 14)
Fastboot mode allows you to flash the device without authorization, but it does not work on all models. The method is suitable for smartphones on MIUI 12-14 with the bootloader unlocked. If the bootloader is locked, you will first need to unlock it (instruction below).
Step-by-step:
- Download the Mi Flash Tool and firmware for your model (choose the Fastboot version).
- Turn off the phone. Press Volume down + Power to enter the Fastboot (there will be a hare in a hat on the screen).
- Connect your smartphone to your PC, launch the Mi Flash Tool and select the downloaded firmware.
- Press Refresh, then Flash, and it takes 5-10 minutes.
If your phone still requires an account after firmware, try:
- π Switch an older version MIUI (For example, 12 instead of 14).
- π§ Use patched firmware with remote Mi Cloud (risky!).
Download the latest Mi Flash Tool version|Check the phone model in the settings|Download Fastboot firmware for your model|Prepare. USB-cable (original!)|Disable antivirus on PC-->
β οΈ Note: Fastboot firmware resets all data on the phone. If the device had important files, first try methods to restore access without reset (see Method 4).
Method 3: Unlocking through EDL (for advanced users)
EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is an emergency firmware mode that bypasses all locks, even on locked bootloaders, but requires special equipment (EDL cable or testpoints) and knowledge.
Algorithm of action:
- Buy or make an EDL cable (can be found on AliExpress for "Xiaomi EDL cable"). Some models (Redmi Note 8 Pro, Poco X3) will require the test points to be closed on the board.
- Download firmware in.mbn format (for example, from xiaomifirmwareupdater.com).
- Connect your phone to your PC in EDL mode (the screen will be black).
- Use the Mi Flash Tool or QFil for firmware.
Advantages of the method:
- β It works on 90% of Xiaomi models, including new ones (Redmi Note 12, Poco) F5).
- β Bypasses the lock Mi Account and the blocked bootloader.
Disadvantages:
- β Risk of damage to the fee when closing testpoints.
- β Requires the purchase of cable (~500-1500 ruble).
- β On some models (Xiaomi 13, 14) can work the protection of Anti-Rollback, leading to the "brick".
Which Xiaomi models support EDL without test points?
| Xiaomi model | Need a testpoint? | The Risk of Anti-Rollback |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 10 Pro | No (EDL cable) | Low. |
| Poco X3 Pro | Yeah (closing) | Medium. |
| Xiaomi 12T | No. | High-pitched |
| Redmi 9A | Yes (MediaTek) | Low. |
Method 4: Temporary bypass of the lock via ADB (without data reset)
If the phone is on but blocked by Mi Account, you can try to bypass the lock via the phone. ADB (Android Debug Bridge. The method works MIUI 12-14 It does not require data resetting, but it does:
- π Included debugging by USB (If previously activated in the settings).
- π₯οΈ A computer with installed Xiaomi drivers and ADB.
Instructions:
- Connect your phone to your PC and open the command line in the folder with ADB.
- Enter the commands in order: adb shell su content insert --uri content://settings/secure --bind name:s:user_setup_complete --bind value:s:1
- Restart the device. In some cases, the lock will be removed.
If the team fails, try an alternative method:
adb shell am start -n com.android.settings/.MiuiAccountDeleteActivityβ οΈ Note: This method only works on firmware with older versions MIUI. On new devices (Xiaomi) 13/14, Redmi Note 12) blocked.
Contacted in support of Xiaomi|Stripped through Fastboot|Usted EDL|Trooked through ADB|Nothing tried-->
Method 5: Unlock the bootloader (for firmware without Mi Account)
If the bootloader is locked, most firmware methods will not work.
- Apply for unblocking through the official website (requires a tied Mi Account).
- Download Mi Unlock Tool and connect your phone in Fastboot mode.
- Wait. SMS-Confirmation code (comes to the number associated with the account).
Problem: If your phone is locked because of Mi Account, you won't be able to log in to Mi Unlock Tool.
- π± Temporary SIM card with the number of the previous owner (if you can agree).
- π» Use of cloud-based unlocking services (paid, ~1000-3000 ruble).
Once unlocked, you can flash the device through Fastboot or TWRP (Castom Recovery).Please note: on newer models (Xiaomi 13/14, Redmi Note 12), unlocking can take up to 360 hours (15 days) of waiting!
π‘
Unblocking the bootloader through the official Xiaomi tool is the only safe way, but it requires authorization in the Mi Account. If access to the account is lost, you will have to use alternative methods (EDL, service centers).
What to do if nothing works: alternative solutions
If all of these methods fail, radical measures remain:
- π§ Replacement of motherboards: Service centers can re-sweeten the fee from the donor device (cost) ~5000-15000 Minus: lost IMEI, There may be problems with the network.
- π± Purchase of βclean" IMEI. Illegal method associated with the risk of blocking by the operator is banned in Russia and the EU.
- π’ Contacting informal service centers: Some workshops have access to Xiaomi databases and can reset your account for a fee (1000-5000 Risk: fraud or damage to the device.
Before you go to extreme measures, assess the feasibility of:
- π° If the phone is older 2-3 years (e.g. Redmi Note) 7 or Mi 9), Repairs can be more expensive than buying a new device.
- βοΈ In some countries (e.g. the EU) self-unblocking IMEI punishable.
If you decide to sell a locked phone, honestly state the problem in the ad - it will save time and nerves to the buyer. In the secondary market, blocked Xiaomi buy for 30-50% of the market value.