Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi Redmi 4A is a must for custom firmware installation, root rights or device recovery after software failures. However, the procedure has nuances: the manufacturer has imposed strict restrictions, and incorrect actions can turn a smartphone into a “brick.” In this article, the current instructions for 2026, taking into account the latest changes in Xiaomi policy and proven methods of avoiding typical errors.
Many users face problems when unlocking: server failure, Couldn’t verify device error or endless waiting. SMS-We're going to look at the causes of these failures and come up with workable solutions. Importantly, the procedure voids the warranty, but when done correctly, it doesn't harm the hardware of the device. 4A globalized MIUI set up TWRP, Without an unlocked bootloader, you can not do.
Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and what it gives the user
The manufacturer has been blocking the bootloader on all devices since 2016, a measure to protect against unauthorized access to system partitions. Xiaomi’s official position is that blocking prevents the installation of malware and reduces the risk of data theft.
- 🔄 Install custom recovery (TWRP, OrangeFox)
- 📱 Switch to alternative firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience)
- 🔓 Get root rights through Magisk
- 🛠️ Restore the device after a soft breeze"
On Redmi 4A (codename rolex), the bootloader is locked at the hardware level, so you can only bypass the protection through the official Mi Unlock Tool. Alternative methods (for example, through fastboot oem unlock) do not work on this model - they are relevant for newer devices with Qualcomm processors.
After unlocking, you will lose:
- ⚠️ Guarantee (if it is still valid)
- 🔒 The ability to use Mi Cloud to search for a device
- 📡 Certain functions MIUI, Linked to the original bootloader (e.g., Find Device)
Preparation for Unblocking: Requirements and Warnings
Before starting the procedure, check the compliance with the key conditions:
- Version. MIUI: The device must be installed with official global or Chinese firmware (versions for regional sellers such as Redmi). 4A Prime is not suitable. You can check the version in Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI.
- Mi Account: You must have a Xiaomi account linked and confirmed (not to be confused with a Google account!) Registration via VPN or informal methods can result in a lockdown.
- Device-account link: A smartphone must be tied to an account for at least 72 hours (it took 7 days before, but the rules have changed).
⚠️ Warning: If you reset your settings, untie your account, or sew your device in 72 hours, the timer will reset.
Also prepare:
- 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11 (MacOS or Linux does not work on the official tool)
- 🔌 Original. USB-cable (cheap cables can cause connection errors)
- 🔋 Battery charge of at least 60%
- ⚙️ Disabled antivirus and firewall (they can block the Mi Unlock Tool)
Linking your Mi Account to your device|Check the version. MIUI (should be official)|Disable antivirus and firewall|Charge the phone to 60%+|Download the Mi Unlock Tool for the latest version-->
Step-by-step: unlock through Mi Unlock Tool
The official method requires the use of the Mi Unlock Tool utility.
- Download the utility from the official website en.miui.com/unlock (The version should not be older. 2023 Older versions may not support Redmi 4A.
- Install drivers: Connect your phone to your PC in Fastboot mode (click Volume Down + Power When the device is off). In Device Manager, find Android Bootloader Interface and update the driver manually by specifying the folder with drivers from the Mi Unlock Tool archive.
Launch unlock.
1. Open the Mi Unlock Tool on behalf of the administrator.
2. log in to the same Mi Account as you did on your phone.
3. Connect the phone in Fastboot mode (screen with a hare and the inscription "Fastboot").
4. Press Unlock and confirm the action.It takes 1-5 minutes. When it's done, the phone automatically reboots with the bootloader unlocked. If the Current account error is not bound to this device, you've missed 72 hours or used a different account.
⚠️ Warning: Once unlocked, all data on the device will be erased! Backup via Settings → Additionally. → Backup.
What if the Mi Unlock Tool can’t see the device?
Typical errors and their solutions
Even if all conditions are met, users are faced with errors.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t verify device | Device not tied to account for 72 hours or used another account | Wait 3 days from the moment of binding, without resetting the settings. Check that there is one account on the phone and in the Mi Unlock Tool. |
| This device is locked | The bootloader has already been unlocked before, but the firmware has blocked it again. | Repeat the unlocking procedure – it should pass without errors. |
| Network error | Problems connecting to Xiaomi servers or blocking VPN | Turn off the VPN, check the Internet connection. Try changing the DNS to 8.8.8.8. |
| Mi Unlock Tool is not running | Blocking antivirus or lack of administrator rights | Add the utility to the antivirus exceptions. Launch on behalf of the administrator. |
If you unlock the phone, it doesn't turn on or it's stuck on the MI logo, don't panic, it means the system partition is damaged.
- Download the official firmware for Redmi 4A from MIUI Downloads.
- Sweat it through the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode.
In such situations, workarounds help:
- Change your account region: Go to account settings at account.xiaomi.com. Change region to India or Russia (for these regions, unlocking is often easier). Wait 24 hours and try again.
Use the old version of the Mi Unlock Tool
Some users report success with version 2.3.803.1 (2017), which can be downloaded from the XDA Developers forums, but beware – such methods are risky.
⚠️ Note: Bypass methods can result in Xiaomi account blocking or soft breeze. Use them only if the official method has not worked and you are prepared for the risks.
💡
If Mi Unlock Tool gives an error about the device discrepancy to the account, check that the phone in Settings → Mi Account displays the same email as the utility. discrepancies in even one letter will cause a crash.
What to do after successful unblocking
Once you unlock the bootloader, you'll have full control of the device.
- 📥 Install TWRP Download the latest version for rolex from twrp.me and run through fastboot flash recovery twrp.img.
- 🔄 Sweep custom firmware: Popular options for Redmi 4A: LineageOS 16 (Android 9), Pixel Experience (Android 10) or Havoc-OS. Note that some firmware may not support the camera or module. NFC (If you have it in your modification).
- 🔓 Get root rights: Install Magisk through TWRP, To get a super user without SafetyNet triggers.
Important: After installing custom software, some functions may not work properly, such as:
- 📷 Dual camera (if you have one in your Redmi version) 4A) It may not be supported in unofficial.
- 🔋 Optimizing power consumption may get worse (especially on Xiaomi’s kernel-free firmware).
To return everything “as it was”, just flash the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in Clean all and lock mode – this will block the bootloader again.
Risks and how to minimize them
Unlocking the bootloader is an irreversible process that entails several risks:
- Loss of warranty: Xiaomi cancels the warranty when an unlocked bootloader is detected, however, service centers do not always check this point if the problem is hardware (for example, a broken screen).
- Device "brick": Incorrect firmware or interrupted process can turn the phone into a "brick." To avoid this: Always check the hash (MD5) of downloaded firmware. Don't interrupt the firmware process (even if it's frozen by 99%). Use only verified sources (the official website of Xiaomi, XDA Developers).
Security concerns
An unlocked bootloader makes it easier for attackers to access system partitions. If you don't plan to install custom software, it's best to lock the bootloader back.
To reduce the risks:
- 🔄 Make backup copies through TWRP before any manipulation.
- 🛡️ Install only verified firmware with positive reviews.
- 🔒 After installing custom software, configure Magisk to pass SafetyNet (this will allow you to use banking applications).