Why unlocking a bootloader on Poco F3 is not a whim, but a necessity
The bootloader on the Xiaomi Poco F3 (codename alioth) is blocked by the manufacturer by default, not just a brand feature, but a security measure designed to protect the device from unauthorized firmware changes. However, for enthusiasts who want to install custom software, obtain root rights or flash Global ROM to the Chinese version, unlocking becomes a mandatory step.
Since 2021, Xiaomi has tightened its unlock policy: now the process requires you to link your Mi Account, wait 168 hours (7 days) and use the official Mi Unlock Tool. But even after that, users encounter errors like “Couldn’t unlock” or “This device is locked.” In this article, we will analyze all the current ways to unlock, including bypassing typical locks, and also explain how to minimize the risks of “bricking” a smartphone.
If your goal is simply to change the firmware region (for example, from China ROM to Global/EU), consider alternative methods without unlocking, such as Fastboot ROM via Mi Flash Tool.
Preparing for Unlocking: What to Do Before the Process Begins
Before you start unlocking, make sure that all the prerequisites are met, and neglecting at least one item can lead to the blocking of your Mi Account or the inability to complete the procedure.
- 📱 Check the device model: unlocking is only possible for Poco F3 (Make sure you don't have Poco. F3 GT (ares) or other modifications - the instructions are not suitable for them.
- 🔄 Update your firmware to the latest stable version via Settings → The phone. → System update. MIUI must be at least 12.5.3.0 (for Global) or 13.0.4.0 (for China).
- 🔐 Link your Mi Account: the device must be logged into your Mi Account with a confirmed phone number. Use the same account you type into the Mi Unlock Tool.
- 🔌 Prepare the cable and PC: you need the original USB-cable (better from the set) and computer with Windows 7/10/11. MacOS or Linux does not work on the official tool.
- 📡 Disable Antivirus: Programs like Kaspersky or Avast can block Mi Unlock Tool as potentially dangerous software.
Pay special attention to the waiting time. Once you have your account tied to your device, Xiaomi requires you to wait 168 hours (7 days) before you first try to unlock it.
- 🔄 Resetting the settings (Factory Reset).
- 📱 Fastboot flashing through Fastboot.
- 🔐 Change of the tied Mi Account.
Developer Mode Enabled (Settings → About Phone → MIUI Version → 7 Taps)
Allowed debugging over USB (Settings → Additional → For developers)
The device is added to trusted (when you first connect to the PC)
All VPN and proxy on PC are disabled
Download official Mi Unlock Tool (version no lower than 5.5.224.30)
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⚠️ Note: If you are buying Poco F3 "hand, make sure the previous owner untie his Mi Account. Otherwise, unlocking will be impossible without his data. → Accounts. → Mi Account – only your profile should be displayed there.
Unlocking with Mi Unlock Tool
This is the only way Xiaomi supports that does not result in IMEI or account blocking.The instruction is relevant for Poco F3 on MIUI 12/13/14.
Step 1: Enabling Developer Mode and Account Linking
1. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and tap it 7 times until the notification “You became a developer!” appears.
2. Return to Settings → Additional → For Developers and Enable:
- 🔧 Debugging by USB
- 🔓 Unlocking OEM (point-of-point!)
- 🔄 Factory Unblocking (if any)
3. Connect the phone to your PC, confirm debugging permission, and select "Always allow from this computer."
Step 2: Install Mi Unlock Tool and Drivers
1. Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool from the official website (Windows only).
2. Install the program and run it on behalf of the administrator.
3. log in under the same Mi Account as on your phone.
4. If the PC does not recognize the device, install the drivers manually:
- 🖥️ Download Mi Phone Manager – it will automatically install the desired drivers.
- 🔧 Or manually through Device Manager: Update the driver for Android Bootloader Interface.
Step 3: Start unlocking
1. Turn off Poco F3 and press Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot (a screen with a rabbit and FASTBOOT inscription).
2. Connect your phone to your PC. In the Mi Unlock Tool, press "Unlock."
3. Wait for the process to complete (usually 10–30 seconds) The device will restart automatically.
If you have a “Couldn’t unlock” or “50%” error, it means that 168 hours have passed since your account was linked.
What if the Mi Unlock Tool is 99% locked?
Alternative methods: if the official method does not work
Sometimes Mi Unlock Tool refuses to unlock Poco F3 even after waiting 7 days. The reasons can be different from account lock to hardware restrictions.
Method 1: Use the old version of the Mi Unlock Tool
Newer versions of the program often contain additional checks. Try version 3.5.1118.43 or 4.5.808.53.
- Download the archive with XDA Developers.
- Turn off the internet on your PC before you start.
- Log in and try to unlock.
Method 2: Unlocking through EDL (Emergency Mode)
⚠️ It's risky, because doing the wrong thing can turn your phone into a brick:
- 🔧 You have experience working with Qualcomm 9000E (Poco chipset F3).
- 📥 There is a backup of persist and modem partitions.
- 🔌 There is. EDL-cable or testpoints for entering mode.
Instructions:
- Download Mi Flash Pro and firmware for alioth in.tgz format.
- Sign in to EDL (via testpoints or adb reboot edl if OEM is unlocked).
- In Mi Flash, select flash_all_lock.bat (unlockable).
⚠️ Note: After unlocking through EDL You may need to re-link your Mi Account and wait 168 hours. IMEI — Have the tools to restore it (for example, QCN Rebuilder).
Method 3: Waiting bypass 168 hours
Some users have successfully reduced waiting times by:
- 🔄 Reset the meter: Link the account, wait 24 hours, then reset the settings (Factory Reset) and reassign the account. Sometimes the timer is reset up to 72 hours.
- 📅 PC Date Changes: Before you start the Mi Unlock Tool, set the date 7 days ahead!
- 🔧 Uses VPN: Connect to servers in India or China, where checks may be less stringent.
The Mi Unlock Tool is available for 7 days
The Mi Unlock Tool is an old version of the Mi Unlock Tool.
EDL-mode (emergency mode)
Waiting bypass (reset/VPN)
I haven't tried it yet.-->
Table: Common mistakes and their solutions
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t unlock (50%) | It has not been 168 hours since the account was linked. | Try and try the old Mi Unlock Tool. |
| This device is locked | The device is not recognized in Fastboot | Check drivers, cable, USB port. Try another PC. |
| Mi Account not bound | Account not tied or tied incorrectly | Re-link your account in your phone settings |
| Network error | Internet problems or blocking antivirus | Disable VPN/antivirus, check the connection |
| Device not supported | Inappropriate model or version of MIUI | Update your firmware to the latest stable version |
💡
If the phone doesn’t turn on after unlocking, try flashing Fastboot ROM Use the Mi Flash Tool. Select the option clean_all (not clean_all_lock!) Use the firmware for your region.
What to do after successful unblocking
Congratulations! Now your Poco F3 has an unlocked bootloader. But this is just the beginning.
1.Install custom recovery (TWRP)
To install unofficial firmware or obtain root rights, you will need TWRP:
- Download the latest version of TWRP for alioth from the official website.
- Go to Fastboot and run recovery command: fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0_12-0-alioth.img fastboot reboot recovery
2. Switch Magisk to get root
If the goal is root, download Magisk (version 25.2+) and run through TWRP:
- 📁 Copy. Magisk-v25.2.zip phone-on.
- 🔧 V TWRP Choose Install → Select a file → Swipe to Confirm Flash.
- 🔄 Restart and check root through the Magisk Manager app.
3. Install custom firmware
Popular firmware for Poco F3:
- 🌍 Pixel Experience – pure Android without any MIUI.
- ⚡ LineageOS - stable and fast.
- 🔥 ArrowOS – Balanced Customization.
- 📱 Xiaomi.EU — MIUI China-bound.
Switch only through TWRP with pre-Wipe (Dalvik, Cache, Data)!
⚠️ Note: After installing custom firmware, Widevine may stop working L1 (no HD Netflix), NFC or 5G. To restore Widevine rights, run the Magisk Widevine module L1 Certifier.
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Unlocking the bootloader is just the first step, and then you get deep customization opportunities, but you get more risks, and you always back up boot, dtbo and persist before you experiment!