Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones is a fundamental step for those who want full control of their device. The standard MIUI or HyperOS shell often limits the user’s capabilities by prohibiting third-party firmware installation, root rights, and deep system changes. Unlocking opens the door to installing Custom Recovery (such as TWRP), modifying the kernel, and even installing other vendors’ operating systems such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience.
However, this process is not without risks and requires careful attention to detail. Unlike simple resetting, work with the bootloader affects low-level partitions of memory. Wrong actions can lead to the fact that the device will stop loading, becoming a so-called “brick”, which is why it is important to clearly understand every step of the procedure, from linking an account to entering special commands in Fastboot mode.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the current 2026 algorithm, taking into account the company’s new security policies: how to formally request permission, what tools you will need, and how to avoid the typical mistakes that beginners make. Preparation takes longer than unlocking itself, so be patient and follow the instructions.
⚠️ Warning: The bootloader unlock procedure results in the complete removal of all data from the internal storage device. Be sure to back up photos, contacts and documents before starting any manipulations.
Preparation of the device and account Mi
The first and most important step is to properly link your Mi Account to the device, and Xiaomi's security system requires that the phone be a "sign" to the company's servers before issuing permission. SIM-card with active mobile Internet in the smartphone, as binding often occurs through a mobile network, not Wi-Fi.
Go to the settings and find the Advanced Settings → Developer. If the developer menu is hidden, activate it by clicking 7 times on the build number in the About Phone section. Inside the menu, find Mi Unlock Status and turn it on. The system will warn you of the risks — we agree. Next click “Add Account and device.” Successful execution is confirmed by the message “Added successfully”.
It is important to note that the account must have been created at least 30 days ago, new registrations often do not get the right to unlock immediately, also make sure that the device is enabled data transfer and disabled any VPN-Services that may distort IP-Address and raise suspicions of security servers.
Required tools and drivers
To interact with your smartphone in bootloader mode, you will need a computer running Windows. While there are methods for Linux and macOS, the official Mi Unlock Tool is the most stable in Windows. Before connecting the phone, you need to install the correct ADB and Fastboot drivers.
Download the official Mi Unlock utility from miui.com/unlock. The program archive contains not only the executable file itself, but also the basic drivers. When you first run it will suggest installing them, agree. If the installation went wrong, the Device Manager may display an unknown device when the phone is connected in Fastboot mode.
- 📱 Smartphone Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO battery-charged at least 60%.
- 💻 PC or laptop with Windows 10/11 and USB-port.
- 🔌 Original. USB-cable or quality analogue with data transmission support.
- 🌐 Stable Internet connection for authorization in Mi Unlock Tool.
Using damaged cables is a common cause of connection errors. If the computer can't see the phone or the process is interrupted during the check-up phase, try replacing the cable or plugging it into another one. USB-port, preferably directly to the motherboard, bypassing the hubs.
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Use it. USB-ports on the back of the system unit, as they provide more stable power and connection than ports on the front of the case or through the front panel USB-hub.
Application process and waiting
Once the account is successfully linked to the phone settings, you have to wait a certain time. The standard waiting time is 168 hours (7 days). During this period, Xiaomi servers analyze the behavior of the device. trying to unlock the bootloader before the timer expires will lead to an error indicating the remaining time.
There is a myth that you can cheat the system by changing the date on the phone or using third-party scripts. In 2026, such methods practically do not work and can lead to temporary blocking of the Mi Account. The only reliable way is (patient waiting). In rare cases, with high account activity and no violations, the period can be reduced to 24-48 hours, but you should not count on it.
| Status of application | Waiting time | Probability of success | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| New account | 168 hours (7 days) | 95% | Active use is required |
| Gold/Platinum Account Level | 24-72 hours | 99% | Active community members |
| Repeated application | 30 days | 80% | If the previous one was rejected |
| Corporate account | Individually | 100% | For testers and partners |
While waiting, do not delete your account from your phone settings or reset to factory settings. This will cancel the binding and the timer will have to be restarted. You can check the waiting status on the same Mi Unlock Status menu.
Instructions for unlocking through Mi Unlock
When the timer is up, you can start directly unlocking. Turn off your smartphone completely. Then press the Volume Down and Power buttons at the same time. Hold them until the Fastboot logo appears. Connect the phone to your computer with a cable.
☑️ Checklist before unlocking
Run the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer and log in to the same Mi Account that was attached to your phone. The program will automatically detect the device. Press Unlock. A data loss warning will appear, confirm the action. The process will take from 30 seconds to several minutes. Once completed, the phone will automatically restart and begin to clean the data.
fastboot oem unlock
fastboot flashing unlockIn some cases, especially newer models with Snapdragon processors of the latest generation, you may need to manually enter a command into the console if the GUI freezes. However, the standard method through a button in the application works 99% of the time. If the process is stuck by 50% or 99%, do not panic - this is normal when reallocating memory partitions.
⚠️ Warning: Once the bootloader is unlocked, Android’s Verified Boot security system will mark the launch of the modified OS with a warning. This is a routine behavior that cannot be removed without re-blocking.
Possible mistakes and ways to solve them
During the unlocking process, users often encounter error codes, one of the most common is Error 10006 or messages about the inability to obtain status, often due to network problems or lockdowns on the part of the provider. USB-modem) or use a mobile connection instead of Wi-Fi.
The “Account isn’t bound to this device” error occurs when you try to unlock your phone using a different Mi Account than the one added in the settings, and it happens if less than 7 days have passed since the attachment.
- 🚫 Authorization error: Check the login and password, make sure that no additional verification is required SMS.
- 🔌 Driver problem: Reinstall drivers through Device Manager by selecting “Update driver» → «Select from the list» → «Android Bootloader Interface».
- 📉 Unstable connection: Use another one USB-port or cable, close background programs that consume traffic.
What if the Mi Unlock Tool can't see the phone?
If the program says "Too many tries," you'll have to wait 24 hours or even 7 days, depending on the severity of the breach. Don't try to get around that restriction by reconnecting frequently, which will only increase the lock-up time.
Consequences of Unblocking and Safety
Unlocking the bootloader has consequences that you need to be aware of. First, some secure applications will stop working. Banking applications, Google Pay (Wallet) and corporate customers may refuse to run because they detect a breach in the integrity of the system. To circumvent this, there are root-enabled techniques (Magisk/KernelSU), but this is a cat-and-mouse game with app developers.
Second, the quality of the photographic work may decrease. MIUI/HyperOS And when you put custom firmware in place, it often works worse than the stock one. L1 (necessary HD-Netflix content may be downgraded to L3, What will limit the quality of streaming.
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Unlocking the bootloader is an irreversible act in terms of data security and security, and you accept responsibility for the integrity of the device's software.
However, for enthusiasts, the benefits outweigh the risks: The ability to extend the life of a device by installing an up-to-date version of Android when the manufacturer has already stopped supporting it is the main argument for it. Also, an unlocked bootloader allows you to make full backups of the system (Nandroid backup), which saves you in critical situations.