Unlocking Xiaomi bootloader in 2026: a full guide with new rules

Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones in 2026 remains one of the most popular procedures among Android enthusiasts. Without this step, it is impossible to install custom firmware, obtain root rights or restore the device via fastboot after serious failures. However, with the release of HyperOS and the update of the company’s security policy, the process has become more difficult than in 2022-2023.

In this article, you will find up-to-date information on how to unlock a bootloader on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO in 2026, including new Mi Account requirements, regional restrictions and solutions to common bugs. We will also look at which models support unlocking and which do not, and what to do if the system refuses to confirm the request.

Important: the official unlocking procedure through the Mi Unlock Tool remains the only legal way. Alternative methods (such as exploits or informal tools) can lead to IMEI blocking or loss of warranty. In 2026, Xiaomi tightened controls, so following the instructions must be accurate.

Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and why unlock it

The bootloader factory lock is a security measure that Xiaomi has implemented to protect users from malware and unauthorized access. In a locked state, the device can only be booted from signed official firmware, which reduces the risk of installing fake software or hacking through vulnerabilities in the bootloader.

However, for experienced users, the lock creates limitations:

• 🔧 Impossible to establish TWRP, OrangeFox or other custom Recovery.
• 📱 It is forbidden to install firmware from third-party developers (for example, LineageOS, Pixel Experience).
• 🔓 No way to get root rights through Magisk.
• 🛠️ Restricted access to low-level debugging tools (e.g., fastboot commands for partition re-marking).

In 2026, Xiaomi is also using bootloader locks to combat grey imports, for example, devices purchased in China may have additional unlock restrictions for users from other regions, due to licensing agreements and local regulations.

On the other hand, unlocking opens up opportunities for:

• 🔄 Bricked Restores via Fastboot.
• 🚀 Optimizing Performance Through Core and Mod.
• 🔒 Install alternative OSes (e.g., GrapheneOS for privacy enhancement).

⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader resets the device to factory settings. All data (photos, messages, apps) will be deleted. We recommend backing up through Mi Cloud or locally on your PC.

Requirements for unlocking Xiaomi bootloader in 2026

In 2026, Xiaomi tightened the unlocking conditions, and now the following requirements must be met to successfully complete the procedure:

1. Mi Account:

• 📱 Must be linked to the device (in Account settings) → Mi Account).
• 🔐 Must be "allowed to unlock" (checked through Mi Unlock Tool).
• 🌍 Must be registered in the same region as the device’s firmware (e.g. global firmware requires a global account).

Device:

• 📱 Must be officially supported (see list of models below).
• 🔄 Must have the latest version MIUI HyperOS (Update through Settings) → The phone. → Updating the system).
• 🔋 Battery charge of at least 60%.

Computer and software:

• 💻 Windows 10/11 (64-bit). On macOS or Linux, the official Mi Unlock Tool doesn’t work.
• 🔌 Installed Xiaomi drivers (download from the official website).
• 🛠️ The latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool (updated monthly).

Additional conditions:

• ⏳ Wait 168 hours (7 days) after your account is linked to your device (new 2026 rule).
• 📡 Stable Internet connection (unlocking requires verification through Xiaomi servers).
• 🔑 Find My Device (in the security settings).

⚠️ Note: Devices with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi) 12C, POCO M6) may require additional authorization through MTK Auth Bypass.This is an informal method and can result in a lock. IMEI.

Step-by-step: how to unlock the bootloader on Xiaomi in 2026

The unlocking process consists of several steps. Follow the instructions strictly in order to avoid errors.

Step 1: Linking Mi Accounts to your device

1. Go to Settings → Accounts → Mi Account.
2. Sign in or create a new account (make sure the account region matches the firmware region).
3. Enable data synchronization and confirm the binding via SMS or email.

Step 2: Activate Developer Mode and Permissions

1. Go to Settings. → The phone.
2. Click on the MIUI Version (or HyperOS Version) 7 times until the notification “You are a developer” appears.
3. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers.
4. Activate: 🔧 Debugging by USB 🔓 Unlocking OEM (point-of-point!) 🔄 Factory Unblocking (if any)

Step 3: Installation of Mi Unlock Tool

1. Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool from the official website.
2. Unpack the archive and launch it. miflash_unlock.exe on behalf of the administrator.
3. Sign in with the same Mi Account as you do on your phone.

Step 4: Connecting the device in Fastboot mode

1. Turn off the phone.
2. Press the Power button + Volume down to enter the fastboot.
3. Connect the device to the PC through the original USB-cable.
4. In Mi Unlock Tool, press Unlock.

⚠️ Note: Buying devices with AliExpress or other sites without an official warranty in your region increases the risk of getting a model with a locked bootloader, EEA) and the ability to unlock.

Alternative methods of unlocking (at your own risk)

If the official method doesn't work, some users resort to alternative methods, and we don't recommend using them, but we'll tell you about them for completeness.

1. EDL-Mode (Emergency Download Mode)

• 🔧 Allows you to sew the device in emergency mode through Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
• ⚠️ Risks: Total data loss. Blocking IMEI (if you stitch modemst1.st2). Loss of guarantee. 🔹 Instructions: Connect the phone to EDL-In the mode (closing contacts or via adb reboot edl). Use the Mi Flash Tool for stock firmware ROM.

2. Exploit methods (e.g. DirtyCOW)

• 🔧 Use vulnerabilities in the Android kernel to bypass locks.
• ⚠️ Risks: Does not work on HyperOS and newer versions MIUI. Could lead to bootloop.
• 🔹 Example: dirtycow exploit for older devices (e.g. Redmi Note) 4X).

3. Paid unlocking services

• 💰 Cost: from $10. $50 depending on the model.
• ⚠️ Risks: Fraud (many services take money and disappear) Mi Account data breach.
• 🔹 Popular services: UnlockJunky, MiUnlock (check reviews before paying!).

💡

Officially unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool is the only safe method, and alternative methods can cause the device to break permanently or the warranty to be lost.

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Xiaomi bootloader