Getting superuser (root) rights on Xiaomi smartphones opens up access to hidden Android features, allowing you to remove system applications, optimize performance and install custom firmware. However, the process of unlocking the bootloader and installing Magisk or SuperSU requires caution: one wrong action can turn your Redmi, POCO or Mi into a “brick.” In this article, we will discuss current methods for 2026 that work even on new models with HyperOS, and also explain how to avoid typical unblocking errors.
It is important to understand that Xiaomi does not officially support rooting, so you perform all manipulations at your own risk.However, with the right preparation (data backup, battery charge at least 70%, original). USB-We tested the instructions on Xiaomi 13 Ultra, POCO F5 Redmi Note 12 Pro+ — All methods work, but require adaptation to a specific model.
What gives the superuser mode on Xiaomi
Root rights give you complete control of the Android system, but they're often overstated. Here's what you can actually do:
- 🧹 Remove embedded applications (miui.system, Analytics, Mi Browser, etc.) that cannot be uninstalled in standard ways.
- ⚡ Optimize performance: disable unnecessary services, overclock the processor (with the risk of overheating), change the parameters of the core.
- 🔧 Install modified firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) or patches through Magisk Modules.
- 📱 Access hidden settings (e.g. activate ##4636## to test the network).
- 🔒 Bypass the limitations of certain applications (e.g., modifying the ID play-by-play).
However, there is a downside: once rooted, you will lose the ability to use Google Pay, banking applications (due to the SafetyNet trigger), and the warranty from Xiaomi.
Preparation of the device: 5 mandatory steps before unlocking
Before you start unlocking the bootloader and installing root, follow these steps – they will save you hours to recover data in the event of a failure:
Make a full backup on PC through Mi PC Suite|Check the version. MIUI/HyperOS In Settings → The phone.|Charge the battery to 70% higher|Connect the original USB-cable (do not use hubs)|Disable all screen locks (PIN, graphical)-->
Pay special attention to the backup. Use Mi PC Suite (official software from Xiaomi) or TWRP (if already installed) to save:
- 📱 Contacts, SMS, Call log (export to.vcf and.xml).
- 📸 Photo and video (copy folder) DCIM PC-only).
- 🎵 Music and documents (check Download and Documents folders).
- 🔧 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth settings (can be saved via Swift Backup root).
Also check your device model: go to Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI And you can tap the kernel version several times to see the full firmware name, like the Redmi Note. 11 Pro+ 5G it could be veux_global. This information will be needed to download the correct version. TWRP Or OrangeFox Recovery.
⚠️ Note: If your device is running HyperOS (new 2026 models), standard methods of unlocking the bootloader may not work. EDL-mode (emergency firmware) that requires an authorized Xiaomi account and a special cable.
Official method: unlock the bootloader through Mi Unlock
Xiaomi provides a legal tool to unlock the bootloader - the Mi Unlock Tool utility. However, the process involves waiting (3 to 30 days) and binding to the Mi Account.
- Link the device to your Mi Account: Go to Settings → Xiaomi Account → Sync and make sure your profile is linked to your phone. Without this, the Mi Unlock Tool won't work.
Download the Mi Unlock Tool:
The official utility can be found on the Xiaomi website (autonomy required). Install it on a Windows 10/11 PC (on macOS/Linux works via a virtual machine).
Connect your phone in Fastboot mode:
Turn off the device, then press Volume Down + Power to log in to Fastboot. Connect the phone to your PC and launch the Mi Unlock Tool.
Start unlocking:
Sign in to your Mi Account in the utility and follow the instructions. If you see the message "Couldn't unlock, try again after XX hours" - it's normal: Xiaomi imposes a temporary lock (usually 72-720 hours).
| Xiaomi model | Waiting time to unlock | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Redmi Note 12/13, POCO X5 | 72-168 hours | Requires a tie-up. SIM-card-to-account |
| Xiaomi 13/14, Mix Fold 3 | 360-720 hours | You need to log in via Mi Cloud in China |
| POCO F5 Pro, Redmi K60 | 168 hours | It only works with the original cable. |
| Xiaomi Civi 3 | 7 days | Requires confirmation by SMS to Chinese number |
Once you successfully unlock the bootloader, you'll see "Unlocked" in Fastboot mode, and you can now start installing a custom recavator (TWRP) and getting root rights.
💡
If the Mi Unlock Tool gives an error “Current account is not bound to this device”, try re-linking the account: go to Settings → Xiaomi Account, delete the profile, then add it again and reboot the phone.
Install TWRP and get root through Magisk
Once the bootloader is unlocked, the next step is to install a customized Recovery (TWRP or OrangeFox) and Magisk firmware to get root. Importantly, there is a different version of TWRP for each Xiaomi model!
Download the current version TWRP for your device from the official twrp.me website or trusted forums (XDA Developers, 4PDA). For example, for Xiaomi. 12T Pro, it's gonna be a file. twrp-3.7.0_12-v7.1_diting.img. Also download the latest version of Magisk (at the time of writing – Magisk) v26.4) GitHub.
Follow the instructions:
- Fastboot TWRP: Connect your phone in Fastboot mode and execute the command in the terminal (on PC): fastboot flash recovery twrp version.img fastboot boot twrp version.img After that, the device will automatically reboot to TWRP.
- Backup boot: In TWRP, go to Backup → Select Partitions and mark Boot. Save backup to memory card or PC.
- Click Magisk: Copy the Magisk-v26.4.zip file to your phone, then in TWRP select Install → Select file → Magisk-v26.4.zip and confirm the installation.
- Reboot: Press Reboot System. If the phone is getting stuck on the Xiaomi logo, repeat the Magisk firmware or restore the boot from the backup.
⚠️ Note: On HyperOS devices (e.g. Xiaomi) 14) The standard Magisk may not work, in which case use a modified version of Magisk Delta or a patch for the Magisk Delta. init_boot boot.
What if the phone doesn’t turn on after Magisk firmware?
Alternative methods of obtaining root without unlocking the bootloader
If official unlocking via the Mi Unlock Tool is not available (for example, due to long waiting), workarounds can be used, but these methods are less reliable and can lead to soft-brick (software failure).
One way to do this is to exploit the DirtyCOW vulnerability (for older versions of MIUI) or exploits like KingRoot/iRoot, but we recommend these tools only for power users, as they are:
- 🐞 Malware is often installed.
- 🔄 They can fly off after the reboot.
- 🚫 Not being checked by SafetyNet.
A more reliable alternative method is the use of EDL-The power download mode requires:
- 🔌 Specialist EDL-cable (or closing contacts on the board).
- 💻 Mi Flash Tool and an authorized Xiaomi account.
- 📄 Firmware in.tgz format for your model.
Instructions for firmware through EDL:
- Turn off the phone, plug in. EDL-cable (or close test points on the board).
- Open the Mi Flash Tool, select firmware and press Refresh – the device should be defined as COM-port.
- Press Flash and wait until it is completed (10-15 minutes).
- After the firmware, unlock the bootloader in the standard way.
💡
EDL-The mode is the last chance to restore the "brick" Xiaomi, but it requires soldering skills or special cable!
How to check if root is working and what to do if it is not.
After installing Magisk or SuperSU, you need to make sure that the root rights are actually active.
- Install the Root Checker app: Download it from Google Play and run the check. If you see the message "Congratulations! Root access is properly installed," it was a success.
- Check Magisk status: Open the Magisk app (should appear after the firmware) and the Magisk section should have a green icon that says "Installed" on it.
- Terminal Test: Install Termux and type: su If an input invitation appears (# instead of $), root works.
If root does not work, possible causes and solutions:
| Problem. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Magisk is not installed | Incompatible version for HyperOS | Use Magisk Delta or patch for init_boot |
| The phone is loaded into the bootloop | Improperly stitched boot.img | Restore the original boot with TWRP |
| Root Checker shows error | Not activated by Magisk in the settings | Open Magisk → Settings → Enable MagiskHide |
| Apps don't see root | SafetyNet protection is active | Install Universal SafetyNet Fix in Magisk |
If nothing helps, try reflashing Magisk manually through ADB:
adb push Magisk-v26.4.zip /sdcard/
adb shell twrp install /sdcard/Magisk-v26.4.zipRisks and how to minimize them
Getting a root license on Xiaomi is always a compromise between features and security, and here are the main risks and ways to avoid them:
- 💀 "Bricking" (complete failure): occurs when you interrupt firmware or use inappropriate files. Solution: always check compatibility TWRP and Magisk with your model on XDA Developers.
- 🛡️ SafetyNet Violation: Bans in Games and Banking Applications Failure Solution: Install MagiskHide Props Config and Universal SafetyNet Fix modules.
- 🔄 Loss of loss OTA-Updates: rooted devices don't get updates over the air Solution: download firmware manually from xiaomifirmwareupdater.com.
- 🕵️ Security vulnerabilities: root opens access to system files for malware. Solution: use antivirus (e.g. Malwarebytes) and do not install applications from unknown sources.
If you decide to return it all, follow the following steps:
- Uninstall the Magisk menu (Uninstall → Complete Uninstall).
- Sweep the original boot.img through Fastboot:
- Lock the bootloader back through the Mi Unlock Tool (Lock option).
⚠️ Note: Some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T) After blocking the bootloader, you may need to completely flash through the Mi Flash Tool with the clean all option!