Owning a Xiaomi smartphone offers a wide range of customization options, but the standard MIUI shell or the new HyperOS often restrict access to system files. Unlocking the bootloader is the first and most important step for those who want to install custom recoveries, obtain root rights or simply change the firmware region without unnecessary restrictions.
Redmi Note model 9S (codename: curtana is based on the Snapdragon processor 720G, Which makes it a great candidate for modifications, but the manufacturer's security policy imposes a number of conditions: You'll need a registered Mi Account linked to the device and special software on your PC. Starting from 2026, the procedure requires mandatory binding. SIM-7 to 168 hours of waiting, depending on your account status.
Before we take action, we need to understand the consequences: once unlocked, all data on the internal drive will be permanently deleted for security reasons, and some banking applications or services that are tied to system integrity may also stop working, although modern methods of bypassing (Magisk) minimize these problems. Below we will discuss in detail each step of preparation and execution of the procedure.
⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader will automatically void the official software warranty in most service centers.If your smartphone is in warranty service, think twice before starting the procedure.
Preparation of the device and obtaining developer rights
The first step is to activate hidden features in Android. Without the developer mode, you will not be able to link the device to your account, which is a prerequisite for the unlock utility to work. Open the Settings menu → About your phone and find the MIUI Version (or HyperOS Version). You must quickly click on this item 7-10 times in a row until the notification “You became a developer” appears on the screen.
Next, go to the advanced settings menu. In the list of options, find a new option (or it can be immediately in the main settings menu, depending on the OS version) and select For developers. Here we are interested in a few critical parameters that need to be changed:
- 🔓 Factory unlocking: switch the slider to the active position and confirm the action with the code from SMS.
- 🔌 Debugging by USB: Turn on this item so that the computer can give commands to the smartphone.
- 📶 Device Linking: Click on “Act Account to Device” and make sure yours is selected SIM-Mobile Internet card (Wi-Fi must be turned off at this point).
After these steps are done, the smartphone will restart. Make sure that the unlock status displays the message “Unlocked is prohibited” (this is normal before the application) and that the account is successfully linked. If the system says “failed to tie”, try switching to mobile data and try again.
Installation of drivers and tools on PC
To interact with a smartphone at the bootloader level, the computer needs the appropriate drivers. Windows 10 and 11 often automatically installs the basic ADB drivers, but Fastboot mode may require manual installation. It is recommended to download the official Mi Unlock Tool package from the developer's website, as it contains the necessary components.
When you install Mi Unlock, drivers will be installed automatically. If you have conflicts, you can use the universal Google USB Driver through Device Manager. It is important that when you connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode (down volume buttons + power), there are no question marks or exclamation points in the Android Devices or Xiaomi section.
☑️ Checklist of PC and smartphone preparation
Use the original cable or quality analogue with data support. Cheap charging cables often don't have the necessary contacts to transmit the signal, which will lead to a connection error. USB 2.0 on the motherboard, avoiding front port housing or USB-hub.
Application process and waiting
Xiaomi’s policy is to artificially limit unlocking to prevent massive resale of devices and installing malware. Once you have your account tied in your phone settings, you must run the Mi Unlock utility on your computer, log in to the same account and press the Unlock button.
In most cases, you will receive a message telling you to wait, the standard waiting time is 168 hours (7 days), but for new accounts or suspicious activity, it can be increased to 360 hours. IMEI device and account, reset it by flashing or changing PC is impossible.
| Account status | Waiting time | Probability of success | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| New (less than 6 months) | 168 - 360 hours | Tall. | Active use of MIUI is required |
| Experienced (Level 3+) | 0 - 72 hours | Very high. | Requires a high ranking in the community |
| Standard. | 168 hours | Tall. | Basic requirements |
| Suspicious | Up to 30 days. | Medium | Frequent change of IP or devices |
During the waiting time, it is recommended to actively use your smartphone: call, use apps, sync data with the Mi Cloud. This increases the trust of the device in the eyes of security servers. Do not try to log out or reset during this period, otherwise the timer may become reset.
⚠️ Attention: If after expiration 7 There's no unlocking days, don't panic. Servers can be updated late. Try re-applying through the 2-3 day without untiing the device.
Direct Unlocking through Mi Unlock
When the timer is up, it's the most critical moment. Make sure all the important data is copied, because the whole Wipe Data will be cleaned in the process. Run the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer and log in to your account. Connect the phone turned off, holding down the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously, until the Fastboot logo with the image of a hare fixing an android appears on the screen.
Press the Unlock button in the program. You will see a data loss warning that you have to accept. It will take from 30 seconds to a few minutes. The progress bar will be displayed on the screen of the smartphone. At the end of the procedure, the device will automatically restart and start the initial setup as new.
fastboot flashing unlockSometimes the utility can give an error even if the time is up, in such cases, it helps to re-assign the account in developer mode and wait another 24 hours, and it is worth checking whether the antivirus or Windows firewall blocks the connection to Xiaomi servers.
What if the process is 99% frozen?
Typical errors and methods of their elimination
The process of unlocking the Redmi Note 9S doesn’t always go smoothly.One of the most common errors is the code 10009 or the message “Couldn’t verify device.” This often indicates driver problems or the wrong version of Mi Unlock.
Another common problem is the error “This account doesn’t have enough permissions,” which occurs when you try to unlock a device that is linked to another account, or if not enough time has passed since the link, and this error can also occur if you change your account password during the waiting period.
- 🔋 Battery error: Make sure the charge is above 50%, otherwise the utility may block the process.
- 🌐 Network problems: Try to distribute the Internet from phone to PC through USB-Modem or use mobile hotspot as IP-Mobile operators’ addresses are less likely to be blocked.
- 🔄 Version Conflict: If you have updated with MIUI 12 by 13 or HyperOS in the waiting period, the timer could have gone off.
For advanced users, there is an option to unlock via EDL mode (Emergency Download Mode), but this method requires an authorized Mi Account with engineer rights that are not officially sold and are often illegal.
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Use a USB 2.0 port (black) on the back of the motherboard. USB 3.0/3.1 ports (blue or red) and front port cases often cause unstable connection when working with the Fastboot.
Actions after unlocking and security
Once you successfully unlock in Fastboot mode, the screen will show "UNLOCKED" in orange, which means that the protection is removed. Now you can install custom receptacles like TWRP and get root rights through Magisk. But the security of the device is now completely in your hands.
It’s worth noting that an unlocked bootloader makes the device vulnerable to physical access: anyone who gets access to your phone turned off can reset the password and access the data.
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An unlocked bootloader is the door to complete freedom of control, but it remains open to everyone: Be careful when connecting to public charging stations and don't leave your phone unattended.
If you decide to return the device to its original state, for example, for sale, you will need to execute the command fastboot flashing lock. But remember that you can only block the bootloader on stock (original) firmware. Attempting to block the bootloader with the changed system partition will lead to the "bricking" of the device.