Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi Redmi 4X (codenamed santoni) is a must-have for custom firmware installation, root rights, or device recovery after software failures. Although the model was released in 2017, it is still popular due to its reliability and support from the development community. However, the unlock procedure has nuances related to Xiaomi policy and features of the old hardware.
In this article, you will find the current instructions for 2026, taking into account all the changes in the Mi Unlock service, we will examine the official method (with Mi Account binding), alternative methods for devices with a blocked account, and also give recommendations for preparing and recovering after unlocking. Importantly, on the Redmi 4X, unlocking is possible even without waiting 72/360 hours, if you use workarounds for older models.
Why do I need to unlock the bootloader on Xiaomi 4X?
The factory bootloader Xiaomi blocks:
- 🔧 Install unofficial firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience, Havoc-OS, etc.).
- 🛠️ Getting root rights through Magisk or SuperSU.
- 🔄 Restore the device through TWRP brick-and-brick".
- 📱 Use some Xposed Framework modules (if they are still supported).
Without unlocking, you are limited to official only. MIUI-Firmware, even if it's not updated for a long time. 4X — MIUI 12.5 Android-based 7.1 Nougat, which is now very old by modern standards. Unlocking opens up access to Android. 10/11 custom-assembly.
⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader resets all data on the device, including internal memory (/data). Backup through Mi Cloud or ADB necessarily!
Preparation of the device: 5 mandatory steps
Before unlocking, follow the following steps:
Linking your Mi Account to your device|Enable debugging on USB and OEM-unlock|Check the version. MIUI (It must be global or Chinese stable)|Install drivers ADB/Fastboot PC-only|Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool (2026)
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Let's take a closer look at each item:
- Mi Account Link: Go to Settings → Xiaomi Account and log in. Make sure the device is displayed in the list of associated accounts on account.xiaomi.com.
Verification of the MIUI version
Global
China
To check the version, run the command in ADB:
adb shell getprop ro.miui.ui.version.name| MIUI version | Support for unlocking | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Global Stable | ✅ Yes. | Recommended version |
| China Stable | ✅ Yes. | Requires registration of a Chinese account |
| Developer (Weekly) | ⚠️ Partially. | May require additional steps |
| Custom firmware | ❌ No. | We need to get back to the runoff. |
Unlocking with Mi Unlock Tool
This is the most reliable method, but it requires a Mi Account and a wait (usually 7 days).However, there is a life hack for the Redmi 4X: if the device was tied to the account before 2019, the wait may not be necessary.
Step-by-step:
- Download Mi Unlock Tool (2026 version)
- Launch the utility on behalf of the administrator and log in under the same account as on the phone.
- Connect Redmi 4X in Fastboot mode (turn off the phone, then press Volume Down + Power).
- In the utility, click Unlock. If you receive a waiting message, wait for the specified time (usually 168 hours).
- Once unlocked, the phone will automatically restart.
For downgrade firmware:
- Download the archive with the desired version of MIUI for santoni (for example, from xiaomifirmwareupdater.com).
- Rename the file to update.zip and place it in the root of internal memory.
- Press Volume Up + Power to log in to Recovery, and select Install update.zip.
Official (Mi Unlock Tool)|Downgrade firmware|EDL-regime|Another way.|I haven't tried it yet.-->
What to do after unlocking the loader?
After successful unlocking:
- Install custom recovery (e.g. TWRP). Redmi 4X is suitable version 3.6.1 from OrangeFox.
- Backup the current firmware through TWRP (Boot, System, Data) sections.
- Sweep through custom firmware (for example, LineageOS 17.1 based on Android 10).
To install TWRP:
fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.6.1-santoni.img
fastboot boot twrp-3.6.1-santoni.imgRecommended firmware for Redmi 4X:
- 📱 LineageOS 17.1 (Android 10) – stable, with long-term support.
- 🎨 Pixel Experience – an interface close to pure Android.
- 🚀 Havoc-OS – Maximum customization.
⚠️ Note: After installing custom firmware, do not update through OTA — This can lead to a brick. All updates are manually installed through the TWRP.
Frequent mistakes and their solutions
When unlocking Redmi 4X, users face typical problems:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t unlock (100%) | Incorrect version of MIUI or account not tied | Install Global Stable and check your account binding |
| This device is locked | The device is linked to another account | Reset FRP via EDL or contact the service |
| Wait for device in Mi Unlock Tool | Fastboot drivers not installed | Install Google USB Driver |
| Phone is not defined in Fastboot | Problems with the USB cable or port | Try a different cable (preferably original) and a USB 2.0 port. |
If the phone does not turn on or hovers on the Mi logo after unlocking:
- Download to Fastboot and run the stock firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.
- If the device does not respond, use it. EDL-Mode (requires an authorized Xiaomi account).
💡
On the Redmi. 4X After unlocking the loader, the settings are automatically reset. DRM (Widevine L1 → L3). That means Netflix, Disney,+ Other services will only work in SD-quality.