Obtaining superuser rights, or root access, on Xiaomi smartphones is a process that opens up almost limitless possibilities for the owner to customize the system. The standard shell MIUI or HyperOS, despite its functionality, has a number of limitations that prevent you from removing system debris, using deep tweaks or fully controlling the file system, which is why the question of how to obtain root rights to the shaomi remains one of the most popular among advanced users.
The procedure for installing administrator rights is not a trivial task and requires a certain technical literacy from the user. You will have to face unlocking the bootloader, working with Fastboot mode and using specialized software on the PC. It is important to understand that any manipulation of the system partition carries potential risks, including the possibility of turning the device into a “brick” if the actions are performed incorrectly.
However, the result is worth it: you get full control of your Android smartphone, you can install customized modules, block system-level ads, improve the autonomy and performance of your gadget. In this article, we will detail all the steps necessary for successful rooting, focusing on security and current methods for modern models.
Preparation of the device and necessary tools
Before you start directly modifying the firmware, you need to do a thorough preparation. Unlocking the bootloader is the first and mandatory step, without which installing a modified boot image is impossible. Xiaomi has implemented strict restrictions, so you will not simply access the system partitions. You will need a Mi Account tied to the device and wait for 168 hours (7 days) after submitting an application.
To work, you will need a computer running Windows, serviceable USB-cable (preferably original) and installed drivers ADB You also need to download the current version of the Mi Unlock Tool from the official website. Be sure to make a full backup of all important data, since the process of unlocking the bootloader leads to the complete removal of information from the internal drive.
☑️ Checklist of preparations
The process of firmware and unlocking can take a long time, and sudden shutdown of the device is critical. The minimum recommended battery charge for starting the procedure is 60-70%, which guarantees stable operation during the critical stages of reprogramming memory controllers.
Unlocking the bootloader (Bootloader)
The process of unlocking the bootloader is a key step that sets Xiaomi apart from many other manufacturers. Once the device is linked to the account in the "For Developer" menu (Mi Unlock Status item), you need to wait for the set timer. Attempts to bypass the wait often lead to an account lock or an increase in the waiting time, so be patient.
When the timer expires, put your smartphone into Fastboot mode, holding the power and volume buttons simultaneously. Connect the device to your PC and launch the Mi Unlock Tool. The program will check the status of the device and, if all the conditions are met, prompt you to unlock the bootloader. Remember that after this procedure, the data encryption will be reset, and the phone will return to factory settings.
⚠️ Note: Once the bootloader is unlocked, some security features such as Google Pay (although this is often done through Magisk Hide) and Widevine will stop working. L1, Why streaming services may lose support HD-quality.
In some cases, especially on newer HyperOS models, the procedure may require an additional layer of authorization through the Mi Community community, with the community account level affecting the rate of approval, in order to minimize the number of random requests from inexperienced users.
What if Mi Unlock is 99% locked?
Selection of the method of setting superuser rights
There are several ways to get the access you want, but the most relevant and secure is to use Magisk. SuperSU and other utilities used to be popular, but they are hopelessly outdated and not supported on modern versions of Android. Magisk works on the principle of systemless, that is, does not make changes to the system partition, which allows you to bypass many security checks.
An alternative is to install customized recaps like TWRP, which can already be used to run a root zip archive. However, this method requires finding a specific recap build for each particular smartphone model, which is not always possible for new or rare devices. Magisk is versatile and patches the boot image directly.
It’s also worth mentioning that there are built-in tools in some custom firmware, such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience, where root can be activated with a simple switch in settings. However, if you stay on stock MIUI, this option is not available to you, and you will have to use the method with a boot image patch.
Step-by-step: Patch of boot image
First, you need to find and download an exact copy of the firmware that is currently installed on your smartphone, and the versions must match the entire version, including the build number, and the file is extracted from the firmware archive. boot.img (or init_boot.img For some new models on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2/3). This file is copied to the phone's memory.
Next, you install the Magisk app. Once you start the app, click the "Install" button in the Magisk section and select "Select and Patch a File." boot.img. The patching process will take a few seconds, after which a file with a name like this will appear in the Download folder. magisk_patched_[random].img.
fastboot flash boot magisk_patched_[random].img
fastboot rebootThe patched file you get, you have to return it to your computer, and then you put it into Fastboot mode, and you run a firmware command over the command line, and then you run fastboot reboot, and you reboot the device, and if you have the version that you have installed in the Magisk app and you have "Installed" status, you've got the root rights.
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Tip: If you have a device with a MediaTek processor, sometimes you need to use the SP Flash Tool instead of fastboot, but only if the standard method doesn't work. For most Xiaomi (Qualcomm) users, a standard fastboot is enough.
Method comparison and model compatibility
Not all Xiaomi smartphones are the same in terms of system modifications. The differences in processors (Snapdragon vs. MediaTek) and Android versions make their own adjustments. For example, on devices with MediaTek processors, the unlocking process can sometimes be more difficult due to the lack of official support for certain tools, although Xiaomi's policy on the bootloader is the same for all.
The table below compares the main characteristics and features for different series of devices in the rooting procedure:
| Series of devices | Processor | Difficulty unlocking | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi (Mi) Series | Qualcomm Snapdragon | Standard. | Full support for Magisk, stable Fastboot |
| Redmi Note Series | Snapdragon / MediaTek | Standard. | Possible nuances with init_boot new-model |
| POCO F/X Series | Qualcomm Snapdragon | Low. | A huge community, many ready-made solutions |
| Budget Redmi (A-series) | MediaTek / Unisoc | Medium | Less custom software, the risk of errors is possible |
Owners of MediaTek-based devices should be more careful when choosing driver versions for PCs. There are often conflicts between VCOM drivers and standard Android drivers, which can lead to connection errors in Preloader mode.
Possible problems and solutions
One of the most common problems after installing root is the loss of broadband or inability to make calls.This is because modifying the boot image can affect the modem if a flawed version of the image was stitched. Always use boot.img strictly from your current firmware version.
Users also often experience a “boot loop” (cyclical reboot). If the phone does not load beyond the logo after installing Magisk, you need to re-enter Fastboot mode and flash the original, unpatched boot.img file. This will return the system to its original state without superuser rights, but save data (unless a complete clean was done).
⚠️ Note: When you obtain root rights, you automatically lose the manufacturer's warranty in most cases. Service centers may refuse free repairs after discovering a modified system.
Another problem is the inability of banking applications, with Google Play Integrity APIs actively fighting root access, and Magisk needs to activate Zygisk and enable DenyList by adding banking apps and Google Play services to address this problem.
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The main conclusion: The success of the procedure depends on 90% of the exact match of the firmware version and the boot image used, negligence at this stage leads to the failure of the device.