How to make Xiaomi anlok: a complete guide to unlocking a bootloader in 2026

Unlocking the bootloader (bootloader unlock) on Xiaomi smartphones is a mandatory step for installing custom firmware, obtaining root rights or restoring the device after software failures. Although the process is officially supported by the manufacturer, it requires strict adherence to instructions and preparation. In this article, we will discuss the current methods of anlock for Redmi models, POCO, Mi and Black Shark, given Xiaomi’s policy changes in 2023–2026.

It’s important to understand that unlocking the bootloader resets the device to factory settings and deletes all data, including photos, contacts and apps. Also, after anlock, some features (such as Find Device or Mi Pay) may not work properly. If your goal is simply to change the firmware region or remove ads, consider alternative methods without unlocking.

What is an anlok loader and why is it needed

A bootloader is a program that starts when you turn on your smartphone and determines which operating system to load. On Xiaomi devices, it is locked by default to protect against unauthorized changes. Unlocking gives the user full control of the system, but deprives the user of guarantees and some proprietary features.

The main reasons for Anlok:

• 📱 Installation of custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience, MIUI EU)
• 🔧 Getting root rights through Magisk or SuperSU
• 🔄 Recovery of the brick after a failed update
• 🌍 Change of firmware region (for example, from Chinese to global)
• 🚫 Removal of embedded software (bloatware) and advertising in MIUI

But there are limitations. Once you unlock it,

• ⚠️ Find Device (finding the phone when lost)
• ⚠️ Some banking applications may block access (due to lack of SafetyNet)
• ⚠️ Updates MIUI You have to install it manually.

⚠️ Note: On devices with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi Note 12) 4G or POCO M5) Unlocking the bootloader can lead to hardware locking of the module IMEI. Before the procedure, check the processor model in Settings → The phone. → Full specification.

Preparation for Unblocking: Requirements and Warnings

Before starting the procedure, make sure your device meets the following criteria:

• 📅 Mi Account age – at least 7 days (from the moment of registration)
• 🔗 Device linked to Mi Account in Settings → Xiaomi account
• 🔋 Battery charge - at least 60%
• 🌐 Stable Internet connection (preferably via PC cable)
• 🖥️ Windows computer 7/10/11 (64-bit) or macOS (for alternative methods)

Also prepare:

• 🔌 Original. USB-cable (better from the set)
• 🔑 Login and password from Mi Account (associated to the device)
• 📱 Backup of data (unlocking erases everything!

⚠️ Note: If you bought the device with your hands, make sure the previous owner untie his Mi Account. Otherwise, unlocking will not be possible without his data. → Xiaomi account → Devices.

For models released after 2022 (Redmi Note 12 Pro)+, Xiaomi 13T, POCO F5 And now, Xiaomi has tightened the requirements:

• 📎 Proof of identity through passport scan (for some regions)
• 🕒 Wait 360 hours (15 days) after linking your account to your device
• 📧 Confirmation of SMS or email when you first request to unlock

Step-by-step: how to unlock the bootloader through Mi Unlock

The official way to unlock is through the Mi Unlock Tool. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid errors.

Step 1: Enable the Developer Modes and OEM-unlock

1. Go to Settings. → About the phone and tap 7 times on the item Version MIUI, to activate the Developer Mode.

2. Return to the main settings menu, open Additional → For developers and include:

• 🔓 OEM-Unlocking (may be called Unlocking the bootloader)
• 🔌 Debugging by USB

3. Connect the phone to the PC and confirm the debugging permission (a pop-up window will appear).

Step 2: Link your Mi Account to your device

1. In the same Developer Menu, look for Mi Unlock Status (or Link Account to Device).

2.Click Add Account and Device and log in to your Mi Account.

3. wait for the message of successful binding (can take up to 24 hours).

⚠️ Note: On some models (Redmi) K50i, POCO X5 Pro) Mi Unlock status may not be available, in which case use an alternative fastboot binding method (described below).

Step 3: Install Mi Unlock Tool and Drivers

1. Download the latest version of the Mi Unlock Tool from the official Xiaomi website (Windows only).

2. Install the program and run it on behalf of the administrator.

3. Download and install drivers ADB/Fastboot:

• For Windows: Android SDK Platform-Tools
• For macOS/Linux: Use brew install android-platform-tools

Step 4: Unlock the bootloader

1.Switch off the phone and press Volume Down + Food to enter Fastboot mode (a hare in a hat-eared hat will appear on the screen).

2. Connect the device to the PC and start the Mi Unlock Tool.

3. log in to your Mi Account (should match the phone tied!).

4. Press Unlock and wait until the process is completed (usually takes 1-5 minutes).

5. Upon successful unlocking, the phone will automatically restart and perform a factory reset.

Alternative Unlocking Methods (if Mi Unlock is not working)

If the official tool refuses to unlock the bootloader, try one of the alternatives. They are suitable for devices where the Mi Unlock Tool produces errors such as "Couldn't verify device" or "Not bound".

Method 1: Unlocking through fastboot (for power users)

This method requires command line work and is suitable for models where the standard method does not work.

1. Install. ADB/Fastboot and switch the phone to Fastboot mode (as in step) 4 basic).

2. Open the command line (cmd) in the folder with the platform-tools and do:

fastboot oem device-info


fastboot oem unlock-go

3. If the unlock-go command is not supported, use:

fastboot flashing unlock


fastboot flashing unlock_critical

Method 2: Use of informal instruments

For some models (Redmi Note 10 Pro, POCO X3 Pro) There are unofficial utilities like XiaomiTool V2 Or Mi Flash Unlock. They automate the process, but they need to be careful:

• 🔗 Download tools only from verified sources (XDA Developers, 4PDA)
• 🛡️ Check files for viruses before launching
• 📜 Read the instructions for the utility carefully (they may differ)

⚠️ Warning: Unofficial tools may contain malicious code or lead to hardware locks, use them only if the official method is not possible and you understand the risks.

💡

If after unlocking the phone does not turn on or stuck on the logo, try to pinch the Volume up. + Power for 10-15 seconds to force reboot. If this doesn't work, you'll need firmware through the Mi Flash Tool.

Frequent Unlocking Errors and Solutions

The Anloka process rarely goes smoothly, and here are the most common mistakes and ways to fix them:

"Couldn't unlock. Your device isn't bound to this account."

Reason: Mi Account is not tied to the device or is not linked properly.

Decision:

• 🔄 Re-link your account to Settings → For developers → Mi Unlock status
• 🕒 Wait 24 hours (sometimes it takes time to sync)
• 📱 Check that the phone is on mobile Internet or Wi-Fi during tethering

Error: "This device is locked. Unlocking is not allowed."

Reason: On New Devices (2023)+ Xiaomi has introduced additional protection.

Decision:

• 📅 Wait 7-15 days after the account is linked
• 📧 Confirm the email or SMS, If you have received a notification from Xiaomi
• 🔧 Try an alternative method with fastboot oem unlock-go

Mistake: "Mi Unlock Tool can't see the device"

Reason: Problems with drivers or cable.

Decision:

• 🔌 Try another one. USB-cable (preferably original)
• 🖥️ Reinstall the drivers ADB/Fastboot manually through Device Manager
• 🔄 Restart your PC and phone
• 🛡️ Disable the antivirus (it can block the connection)

💡

If none of the methods work, check if your model is on the hardware unlock lock list (e.g. some Redmi Note 11 versions for the Chinese market).

What to do after successful unblocking

After the bootloader's anlock, your device is ready for further manipulation.

1. Installation of custom recaveri (TWRP)

Unofficial firmware or backups will be required TWRP Recovery:

1. Download the current version TWRP For your model from the official website.

2. Transfer the phone to Fastboot mode and do:

fastboot flash recovery twrp.img


fastboot boot twrp.img

2. Custom firmware MIUI or AOSP

Popular firmware for Xiaomi:

• 📱 MIUI EU — non-advertising
• 🤖 LineageOS – “clean” Android
• 📱 Pixel Experience – Android with Google Pixel chips
• 🔧 crDroid - custom firmware with advanced settings

For firmware via TWRP:

1. Download the firmware in.zip format.
2. Move the file to your phone or flash drive.
3. Boot in. TWRP and select Install → Select a file → Swipe to confirm.

3. Getting root rights through Magisk

1. Download the latest version of Magisk from GitHub.

2. Install. Magisk.apk regular-app.

3. V TWRP file Magisk.zip.

4.Reboot and check root status in the Magisk app.

⚠️ Note: After obtaining root rights, many banking applications (Sberbank, Tinkoff) will stop working. To get around this, install the MagiskHide Props Config module and activate root concealment mode.

How to get it back: Re-blocking the bootloader

If you change your mind or want to return the warranty, you can lock the bootloader back, but this will lead to complete loss of data and return to the stock firmware.

Instructions:

1. Download the official firmware for your model from the MIUI Downloads website.
2. Unpack the archive and find the file. flash_all_lock.bat (for Windows or flash_all_lock.sh (for macOS/Linux).
3. Transfer the phone to Fastboot mode and connect to the PC.
4. Run the script. flash_all_lock.bat (It will automatically sew the stock firmware and block the bootloader).

After the procedure:

• 📱 The device will return to factory settings.
• 🔒 The loader will be blocked.
• 🔄 Updates MIUI Become available through Settings → Updating the system.

Note: Re-locking will not return the warranty if the device has already been opened or has traces of unofficial firmware. For warranty repairs, a Xiaomi service center with an official unlocker may be required.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions