How to block the bootloader on Xiaomi phones without a computer: all ways in 2026

Bootloader locking on Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO smartphones is the reverse of the popular unlock required to install custom firmware. However, there are situations where the user needs to return the factory state of the device before selling, to restore warranty or after unsuccessful experiments with software. Until 2023, official instructions were supposed to use a PC and proprietary utility Mi Unlock Tool, but today there are workarounds that allow you to lock directly from the phone.

In this article, we will discuss current methods of locking a bootloader without connecting to a computer, taking into account the changes in Xiaomi’s policy after the release of MIUI 14 and Android 14. It is important to understand that the procedure has risks: improper actions can lead to a “brick” (complete failure) of the device. We will also analyze which models support this method and which it is categorically not suitable for.

Before you start, check:

• 📱 Phone model: The method doesn’t work on all devices (see compatibility table below).
• 🔄 Version MIUI: firmware MIUI 12-15 based on Android 11-14.
• 🔒 Mi Account Status: You will need a confirmed and linked Xiaomi account.

Why locking a bootloader without a PC is a risky procedure

Xiaomi does not officially provide tools to block Bootloader without a computer, all “circumvention” methods are based on exploiting vulnerabilities in the system or using hidden MIUI functions.

1. No warranties: The process can be interrupted at any stage, leaving the phone in the Fastboot or EDL (emergency mode), in this case, it will be impossible to restore the device without a PC and special equipment (Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008).

2.Data loss: Locking the bootloader resets the data and cache partitions, removing all user files, applications and settings. Backing up via Mi Cloud or locally is a must.

Model restrictions: The method only works on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors (Redmi Note 10/11/12 series, POCO X3/X4/X5, Mi 11/12). Phones on Mediatek (Redmi 9/10A, POCO M3/M4) require a mandatory connection to a PC.

⚠️ Note: If your phone has previously been unlocked through the Mi Unlock Tool with a link to your account, locking without a PC can cause an Anti-rollback error.

Preparing the phone: mandatory steps before blocking

Before starting the procedure, follow the following steps to minimize the risks:

1. Create a backup copy: 📁 Save photos, contacts and documents to Google Drive or Mi Cloud. 🔧 Export the list of applications through Settings → Annexes → Exports. 📱 Write it down. IMEI phone (click *#06#) and you may need it to recover.
2. Check bootloader status: Turn off phone → Press Volume down + Power before the Fastboot logo appears. Connect phone to charge (not PC!) and check Device is unlocked.

Update the firmware

• 🔄 Install the latest stable version MIUI through settings → The phone. → Updating the system.
• 🚫 Avoid beta versions – they may contain bugs that interfere with blocking.

What happens at this stage:

• 🔐 The fastboot oem lock team sends a request to Xiaomi servers to verify the account status.
• 📱 If the account is linked and confirmed, the server returns permission to block the account.
• 🔄 Phone reflashes boot and recovery sections, returning the factory state of Bootloader.
• The screen will remain black, which is normal (EDL phone).
• Connect your phone to charge (not a PC!) and wait 2-3 minutes.
• Dial on the keyboard of another device (for example, a tablet) USSD-code: ##3644633## ⚠️ Note: This code only works on firmware MIUI 13-14. MIUI 15 it can be turned off.
• If the phone vibrates, the lock is activated. Wait for the automatic reboot (up to 20 minutes).

On Redmi Note 12 and later, this method can cause an SLA Auth Fail error, as Xiaomi has tightened control over the EDL mode.

Method 3: Locking through reset to factory settings (limited efficiency)

This method is suitable for devices where the bootloader was unlocked through the Mi Account, but has not undergone deep modifications (for example, installing TWRP or custom cores).

How it works:

1. Go to Settings → About Phone → MIUI version and click 7 times on the line with the version to activate Developer Mode.
2. Back to Settings → Additionally. → For developers and include: 🔧 Unlocking OEM (If the option is active, turn it off!). 🔄 Factory unlocking (if any).

• 📱 Settings → Additionally. → Recovery and discharge → Resetting settings.
• 🔒 Choose to delete all data (including MIUI).
• After the reboot, check the status of the bootloader through Fastboot (the inscription unlocked should disappear).

Limitations of the method:

• ❌ It does not work if you have installed custom Recovery (TWRP, OrangeFox).
• ❌ Does not block the bootloader 100% - only returns the relocked status, which may not pass the check in the service center.
• ✅ Suitable for preparing the phone for sale unless the buyer plans to check the Bootloader.

💡

If the status of the bootloader has not changed after the reset, try to repeat the procedure by previously untiing the Mi Account in Settings → Accounts → Mi Account → Delete the account.

Compatibility table: which models support locking without PC

Below is the data on support for locking methods for popular Xiaomi devices, information relevant for MIUI firmware 14-15 (2026).

If your model is not in the table, check it on the official MIUI website or in thematic communities (for example, 4PDA).

What to do if the lock failed: restore the phone

If you try to lock your phone:

• 🔄 Hangs on the logo. MI;
• 📵 Not activated (black screen);
• 🔧 Downloaded to Fastboot with critical partition missing error,

So it didn't go well. Don't panic, in most cases, the device can be restored.

Algorithm of action:

1. Try booting up in Recovery: Click Volume Up + Power for 10 seconds. Select Wipe Data → Wipe All Data.
2. Use the Mi Flash Tool (if you have access to a PC): Download the official firmware for your model from the Xiaomi website.

Contact the service center.

• If the phone is in EDL state (black screen, defined as Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008), an authorized box (UFi, EasyJTAG) is required.

⚠️ Note: If the phone was purchased overseas (such as the version for India or China), recovery via the Mi Flash Tool may block the phone from being rebuilt. IMEI. In this case, only contacting Xiaomi Service with a check for purchase will help.

💡

If the phone is identified as a Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 after a failed lock, DO NOT try to stitch it yourself - this can lead to irretrievable loss of the IMEI.

FAQ: Frequent questions about locking up a bootloader on Xiaomi