Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones with MIUI 10 firmware is a must for installing custom firmware, obtaining root rights or restoring the device after software failures. Despite the fact that MIUI 10 was released in 2018, many devices based on it (for example, Redmi Note 5 Pro, Mi 8, POCO F1) are still actively used, and the unlock procedure has nuances that differ from the new versions of MIUI.
In this article, you will find the latest instructions for unlocking the bootloader for the MIUI 10, including device preparation, working with the Mi Unlock Tool, avoiding typical errors (for example, Couldn't unlock or This device is locked), as well as alternative methods for devices with an expired unlock period. Particular attention is paid to the mandatory binding of the Mi Account to the device before unlocking - without this step, the procedure is impossible even in the 2026 year.
Important: the procedure is officially supported by Xiaomi, but requires strict rules. Wrong actions can lead to blocking the Mi Account or the “brick” of the device. If you plan to install the Global ROM on the Chinese version of the smartphone or flash the Custom ROM (for example, LineageOS), unlocking the bootloader is the first and most important step.
Why do I need to unlock the bootloader on MIUI 10?
The bootloader on Xiaomi devices is blocked by the manufacturer by default, which is designed to protect against unauthorized firmware changes, but creates limitations for power users, and here are the key reasons why you may need to unlock:
- 🔄 Custom firmware installation: Without an unlocked bootloader, you can’t flash LineageOS, Pixel Experience, or other alternative OSes.
- 🛠️ Root rights: An unlocked bootloader is required to operate Magisk or SuperSU.
- 🔧 Failure recovery: If the device is stuck on the Mi logo or not booting, unlocking allows you to flash the original firmware through Fastboot.
- 🌍 Change of firmware region: Switch from Chinese (China ROM) to global (Global ROM) or European (EEA ROM) version.
- 📱 Remove embedded software: Ability to remove unnecessary system applications (bloatware) without the risk of blocking.
On MIUI 10, unlocking has its own features:
- ⏳ Wait 72-360 hours after an account is tied (depending on Xiaomi’s model and policy).
- 🔗 Mandatory binding of Mi Account to device via Settings → Mi Account → Link device.
- 🔐 Limitations for Chinese versions: On some devices (e.g., Mi 8 Explorer Edition), unlocking may not be available.
⚠️ Warning: Unlocking the bootloader resets all data on the device! backup photos, contacts and apps via Settings → Additional → Backup and Reset.
Requirements for unlocking the bootloader on MIUI 10
Before starting the procedure, make sure your device and PC meet the following requirements:
| Component | Requirement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi device | Model at MIUI 10 (Android 8-9) | Redmi Note 5/Pro, Mi 8/8 SE, POCO F1, Mi Mix 2S, etc. are supported. |
| Mi Account | Confirmed email and phone number | The account must have been created at least 30 days ago (Xiaomi 2026 rule). |
| Device binding | The device is tied to the Mi Account | Check the Settings → Mi Account → Devices. |
| MIUI version | The latest stable or development firmware | Update through Settings → About the phone → System update. |
| Computer | Windows 7/10/11 (64-bit) | Mi Unlock Tool does not support macOS/Linux. |
Additional conditions:
- 🔌 Battery charge of at least 60% (100 percent recommended).
- 🔗 Original USB- cable (better to use the cable from the kit).
- 🔒 Disabled lock OEM in Settings → For developers → Unlock OEM.
- 📱 Debugging mode is enabled on USB in the same developer settings.
⚠️ Warning: If your device was purchased in China and is powered by China ROM, you may need a Chinese phone number to unlock your account, in which case you may use a middleman or create an account via VPN with Chinese IP.
Enable Developer Mode (click 7 once on "MIUI Version" in About Phone)
Activate USB debugging and OEM unlocking
Link the device to the Mi Account in the settings
Update MIUI to the latest version
Make a backup copy of the data
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Step-by-step: unlock the bootloader through the Mi Unlock Tool
The official way to unlock is to use Xiaomi’s Mi Unlock Tool. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid errors.
Step 1: Install drivers and Mi Unlock Tool
1. Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool from the official Xiaomi website (authentication required).
2. Install drivers for Fastboot:
- Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (turn off the device, then press Volume Down + Power).
- In Device Manager, find the Android Bootloader Interface and update the driver manually by specifying the folder with drivers from the Mi Unlock Tool archive.
Step 2: Authorization to Mi Unlock Tool
1. Launch the Mi Unlock Tool on behalf of the administrator.
2. Sign in to your Mi Account (must match the device attached!).
3. Connect the phone in Fastboot mode. The utility should identify the device.
Step 3: Starting Unlocking
1. Press Unlock in the program.
2. Confirm the action on the phone (if a request appears).
3. Wait until the process is complete. The Unlocked Success message will appear on the screen.
If you see a Couldn't unlock error. Wait for 72 hours or This device is locked, it means:
- 🕒 The device has not passed the waiting period (usually 72-360 hours after the account is linked).
- 🔗 Mi Account is not tied to the device (check in settings!).
- 📱 The device does not support unlocking (rarely, but found on some Chinese models).
What if the Mi Unlock Tool can’t see the device?
Step 4: Checking the Unlocking
After successful unlocking:
- Restart your phone in Fastboot mode.
- Check the status of the bootloader command: fastboot oem device-info The answer should be Device unlocked: true.
- If you plan to flash Custom ROM, install TWRP Recovery via the command: fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
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Once the bootloader is unlocked, all the data on the device will be erased! Don't miss the backup step.
Error bypass when unlocking on MIUI 10
Even when you follow all the rules, users often encounter errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to solve them.
Error: "Couldn't unlock. Wait for 72/168/360 hours"
This is Xiaomi's standard restriction for new accounts or devices.
- ⏳ Wait for the specified time (timer resets when untied account!).
- 🔄 Use another Mi Account that is linked to your device for more than 30 days.
- 🛠️ Alternative method: flash Global ROM through Fastboot without unlocking (not working on all models).
Error: "This device is locked"
Causes and solutions:
- 🔗 Account Unbound: Go to Settings → Mi Account → Link the device.
- 📱 Device does not support unlocking: Check the list of supported models on the Xiaomi website.
- 🔐 Lock OEM Disabled: Enable it in the developer settings.
Mistake: "Mi Unlock Tool can't see the device"
The problem is usually with drivers or USB- connectivity.
- Try another one. USB-cable (preferably original).
- Connect your phone to a USB 2.0 port (the blue ports on your PC often don’t work).
- Install drivers manually through Device Manager (select Android Bootloader Interface).
- Turn off the antivirus and firewall.
Error: "Account is not bound to this device"
This means that the Mi Account is not tied to the device.
- Go to Settings → Mi Account → Devices.
- Click Link Device (if the button is inactive, log out and log in again).
- Wait 5-10 minutes and try again in the Mi Unlock Tool.
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If you bought your phone with your hands, ask the previous owner to untie it from your Mi Account via Settings → Mi Account → Delete the device. Otherwise, unlocking will not be possible.
Alternative Unlocking Methods for MIUI 10
If the official method does not work (for example, due to an expired waiting period or an account lock), alternative methods can be tried. They are less reliable and can lead to locking of the device, so use them at your own risk.
Method 1: Fastboot Firmware without unlocking
Some devices on MIUI 10 allow you to flash Global ROM without unlocking the bootloader.
- Download Fastboot ROM for your model from the official website.
- Unpack the archive in a folder on your PC.
- Connect your phone in Fastboot mode.
- Launch the file. flash_all.bat (for Windows or flash_all.sh (for Linux/macOS).
⚠️ Risk: On some models, this method results in a device lock (brick).Before using, check for feedback on forums (e.g., 4PDA or XDA Developers).
2 Method: Using EDL- Mode (for power users)
EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is a service mode that allows you to bypass the bootloader bypassing the device.
- 🔧 Authorized Xiaomi Account (for new devices).
- 💻 Mi Flash Pro or QFilm.
The instructions for working with EDL depend heavily on the device model. For detailed guides, look for themed forums (for example, 4PDA).
⚠️ Warning: Using EDL without Xiaomi authorization can result in a complete locking of the device (official repairs required).This method is recommended only for advanced users!
Method 3: Contacting a service center
If all attempts to unlock the bootloader failed on their own, you can contact the authorized service center Xiaomi.The service is paid (from 1000 to 3000 rubles depending on the model), but guarantees the result without the risk of "bricking".
Before the visit:
- Check if they are unlocking the bootloader (not all centers provide this service).
- Bring a check or a confirmation of purchase (if the device is warranty).
- Make sure that there is no important data on the device (it will be erased anyway).
What to do after unlocking the loader?
Once you unlock successfully, you get full control of the device.
Remove embedded applications
- Install Root Explorer or Titanium Backup.
- Remove unnecessary system applications (e.g. com.miui.analytics).
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Once the bootloader is unlocked, the device becomes more vulnerable to malware: Install a reliable antivirus (such as Malwarebytes) and do not install applications from unverified sources.