Obtaining super-user rights on modern Xiaomi smartphones is no longer a simple one-click procedure, as it was in the era of Android 4 and 5. Today’s process requires a deep understanding of the structure of boot partitions, working with the A/B partition scheme and skills to use specialized software. Installing a root on Xiaomi in 2026 means not only accessing system files, but also learning to bypass the complex protection mechanisms Verified Boot implements for data security.
Many users are wondering why they should risk the guarantee and stability of the system at all. The answer lies in the limitless possibilities of customization, from complete removal of system debris and advertising to installing modules that change the operation of the processor and camera. However, before you start any manipulations, you need to realize that unlocking the bootloader on new models can lead to an irreversible reset of Widevine L1, which will deprive you of the ability to watch HD content on streaming platforms.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the entire journey from applying for an unlock to the final SU rights check. We will not use outdated methods with KingRoot or OneClickRoot, as they do not work on the current versions of HyperOS and MIUI 14/15. The only working and safe way in the current realities is to modify the boot image using Magisk or KSU after the official unlock of the bootloader.
Preparation of the smartphone and collection of necessary tools
The first step is to carefully prepare the workplace and the device itself. You will need a Windows computer (on macOS and Linux the process is more complicated due to drivers), high-quality computer running Windows. USB-cable and stable Internet connection.Be sure to back up all important data before starting the procedure, as unlocking the bootloader will inevitably lead to complete removal of information from the internal drive.
On your smartphone, you need to activate the developer mode. Go to Settings → About Phone and click seven times in a row on the field MIUI Version or OS Version. After the notification “You became a developer”, go to the menu Additional → For developers. Here you need to enable the option Debugging by USB, and also find the Mi Unlock Status item (or download the Mi Unlock Status application from GitHub if the standard one is removed).
- 📱 Charge your smartphone to at least 70% to avoid sudden shutdown at a critical time of firmware.
- 💻 Download and install the current Qualcomm or MediaTek drivers (depending on the processor) and ADB/Fastboot Platform Tools.
- 🔗 Link the Mi Account in the smartphone settings to the one SIM-card that will be used to apply for unblocking.
⚠️ Note: New HyperOS devices have tightened Mi Account requirements, account level must be 5 or higher, and from the moment of binding, the user must be at a higher level. SIM-The card must be at least 168 hours (7 days) before unlocking).
☑️ Checklist of preparations
Official Unlock Bootloader (Unlock Bootloader)
Without an unlocked bootloader, a modified boot image cannot be installed. Xiaomi uses its own verification system, so standard Fastboot commands won’t work without authorization through the company’s servers. The process begins with submitting an application through a special Mi Unlock Tool app on a PC or through the built-in smartphone menu.
After logging into your account in Mi Unlock and switching your smartphone to Fastboot mode (clamping Volume Down + Power buttons at the same time when your phone is off), the program will check the status of the device. If all the conditions are met, the Unlock button will appear.
It is important to understand the difference between Global and CN firmware. China ROM can expect 3 to 7 days; Global ROM can be extended, and applications are temporarily suspended in some periods; successful unlocking is confirmed by the Fastboot logo with an open lock when the device is turned on.
Removing and modifying Boot Image via Magisk
The most critical step is to get the original boot image that matches your current firmware version. You can't use the image from another version of the system or from another model, it's guaranteed to lead to a bootloop. ROM) For your model and extract the file from the archive boot.img. If you have a device with A/B Partition, you may need a file init_boot.img (It is relevant to models on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 newer).
Transfer this file to your smartphone and open the Magisk Manager app. Click the "Install" button next to "Magisk" and select the "Select and Sweat File" method. boot.img. After the process is completed, a file with the name of the view will appear in the download folder. magisk_patched_....img. This modified image will need to be recorded back on the phone.
fastboot flash boot magisk_patched_26400_abc123.img
fastboot rebootFor partition devices init_boot The team will be different: fastboot flash init_boot magisk_patched_....img. Once the firmware is in place, the phone needs to be restarted. If it's successful, the Magisk app will display the version number in the "Version" bar, and the "Root" line will show the word "Yes».
What to do if the boot.img file is not found?
Comparison of rights acquisition methods: Magisk, KSU and KernelSU
There are several basic solutions in the root rights ecosystem, and the choice depends on the Kernel version of your device. Traditional Magisk runs in user space and modifies ramdisk. However, on devices with a core version of 5.10 and higher (and such on Xiaomi with Dimensity processors and the new Snapdragon most), KernelSU is more preferable.
KernelSU runs directly in the kernel, making it more secretive for banking applications and anti-cheat game systems. It does not require modification of the boot image in the classical sense, if the kernel already supports modules. KSU, or requires a special firmware GKI-Magisk remains the king of compatibility for older devices and offers a more flexible system of modules.
| Characteristics | Magisk | KernelSU (KSU) | SU (Legacy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level of work | Userspace (Ramdisk) | Kernel Space | System Partition |
| Secrecy | Requires settings for Zygisk | Tall (out of the box) | Low. |
| Android support | Android 5.0+ | Android 11+ (GKI) | Android 2.3 - 6.0 |
| Module management | Through the app | Through the KSU app | Absent. |
For Xiaomi owners with new MediaTek processors (such as the Redmi Note 12/13 series on Dimensity), KernelSU is often the only working option, since the partition structure may differ from Qualcomm standards.
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The choice of method depends on the kernel version: for Android 11 and above with a core of 5.10+, choose KernelSU, for older models - classic Magisk.
Solution: Bootloop and firmware errors
Even with strict adherence to the instructions, errors are possible. The most common problem is Bootloop, when the phone is endlessly rebooted on the logo. This happens if a incompatible boot image is stitched or the integrity of the bootloader is violated. In this case, do not panic: the device has not turned into a brick, it can be restored through Fastboot.
If the phone goes into a cyclic reboot, press the Volume Down + Power buttons before the Fastboot logo appears. Connect the phone to your PC and try flashing the original (not modified) boot image with the fastboot flash boot boot.img command. If this does not help, the only way out is to completely flash the device through the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode.
⚠️ Warning: When a bootloop occurs, do not try to charge your phone when it is off for hours - this will not solve the software error.
Another common problem is that banking applications fail to work, and this is due to root rights, which requires activating Zygisk in Magisk settings, enabling DenyList, and adding banking apps and Google Play Services, and renaming the Magisk package in the app settings to hide it from simple checks.
Security and Risks After Obtaining Root Rights
Obtaining superuser rights removes many software constraints, but also opens the door to potential threats. Any application that gains access to root gains full control of the system. This means malware can steal passwords, encryption keys, and bank card data. Be extremely careful about granting permissions to unknown applications.
In addition, root rights make it impossible for certain services to work, such as Google Pay (now Google Wallet) does not work on modified devices by default. Although workarounds exist, they require constant updates and fight against Google security updates. It is also worth considering that some applications, such as Sber, Tinkoff or foreign banks' bank clients, can block startups if an unlocked bootloader is detected.
- 🔒 Install an antivirus with root access monitoring, such as Dr.Web or Kaspersky.
- 🚫 Do not grant superuser rights to applications from unverified sources or with questionable reputations.
- 🔄 Update regularly Magisk/KernelSU Update to close security vulnerabilities.
It's important to keep in mind the physical condition of the device. Some scripts to overclock the processor or control the battery can cause the battery to overheat and bloat. Control the temperature of the smartphone when using system tweakers.
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Use the Universal SafetyNet Fix module (or its current forks) to return to Google Play Services certification and launch streaming services in high quality.