The bootloader mode (or Fastboot) on Xiaomi smartphones is a special state of the device that allows you to perform low-level operations: firmware, unlock the bootloader, restore the system or even “resuscitate” the phone after serious crashes. Without access to this mode, you can not install custom firmware, obtain root rights or eliminate critical errors when the phone does not boot in normal mode.
However, logging into the bootloader on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices has its own nuances. Unlike many other brands, it often requires pre-unlocking the bootloader through the official Mi Unlock tool, and on new models (for example, Xiaomi 13/14 or Redmi Note 12), the process is complicated by additional security measures. In this article, we will discuss all the current ways to log into the Fastboot, including bypassing typical bugs and security tips.
⚠️ Warning: Incorrect actions in bootloader mode can lead to complete loss of data or “bricking” of the device (turning into a “brick”). If you are not sure about your actions, contact a specialist or use official Xiaomi service centers.
What is a bootloader and why you need it on Xiaomi
Bootloader is a program that runs to the operating system and is responsible for initializing the hardware of the smartphone. On Xiaomi devices, the bootloader is implemented in the form of a Fastboot mode, which allows:
- 🔧 Install official and custom firmware via Mi Flash Tool or fastboot-commands.
- 🔓 Unlock the bootloader to obtain root rights or install alternative OSes (e.g. LineageOS).
- 🛠️ Restore the phone after crashes when the system is not booting (so-called bootloop").
- 📱 Check the status of hardware components (for example, through the command fastboot getvar all).
On new Xiaomi models (released after 2020), the bootloader is locked by default, which means that even if you enter Fastboot mode, many operations will not be available without first unlocking through your Mi Account. Older devices (such as the Redmi 4X or Mi A1) often allow you to work with the bootloader without additional actions.
⚠️ Attention: Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi resets all data on the phone, including photos, contacts and apps. Mi Account will also be untied from the device.
The official way to log into Fastboot on Xiaomi
The easiest and safest method is to use hardware buttons, which works on all Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO models, including the latest flagships.
- Turn off the phone, holding the power button for 10-15 seconds.
- Hold the combination: 🔘 Power button + Loudness down (for most models). 🔘 Power button + Volume up (for some older devices, such as Redmi) 3S).
10-15 seconds
Mi Bunny
Fastboot
Android
FASTBOOT
If the screen is not responding, try connecting the phone to charge for 5-10 minutes, then try again.Some models (such as the POCO F5) may require a double press of the power button after holding the combination.
The screen shows the Mi Bunny logo in Fastboot mode|The phone is defined in Device Manager as "Android Bootloader Interface"|Team team. `fastboot devices` The terminal displays the serial number of the device|You can see the inscription on the screen "FASTBOOT MODE" or "LOCK STATE - LOCKED"
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💡 Tip: If you plan to sew your phone, install Mi drivers in advance USB Driver and check the fastboot device command in the terminal. Without the right drivers, the PC won't see the device.
Alternative ways to enter the bootloader
If the hardware buttons don't work (for example, because of a physical breakdown), software methods can be used, and they are suitable for devices that are at least partially powered on.
Method 1: Recovery Menu (Recovery)
This method works if you have stock or custom recovery (such as TWRP) installed:
- Enter Recovery by holding Power + Volume up.
- Select Reboot → Fastboot (in TWRP) or Connect with MIAssistant (in drain recovery).
- Confirm the reset.
⚠️ Note: On new Xiaomi models (e.g. Xiaomi) 13T) Stock recovery can block the transition to Fastboot without unlocking the bootloader.
Method 2: Through ADB-team
If your phone is turned on and you have USB debugging enabled, use the command:
adb reboot bootloaderFor this:
- Connect the phone to the PC and allow debugging.
- Open the terminal (or Command Prompt) and enter the command above.
📌 Note: If debugging is USB It's not on, it's not going to work, and to activate it on a locked phone, you'll have to use the recovery menu.
Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi: why it is necessary
Starting with the Xiaomi Mi 5 (2016), the company implemented a default bootloader lock, which means that even if you log in to Fastboot, many operations (such as firmware via fastboot flash) will be blocked without first unlocking.
The unlocking process includes:
- Linking your Mi Account to your device (SMS/email confirmation required).
- Wait 72–168 hours (on new models) after the binding.
- The official Mi Unlock Tool tool is used.
1. Connect to another network (e.g., via mobile internet instead of Wi-Fi).
2. Use a Mi Account that is linked to the phone for more than 7 days.
3.Recheck the Mi Unlock Tool version (newer models require the latest version).
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EDL mode: when Fastboot is not available
If the phone doesn’t turn on at all (even in Fastboot), the last chance is Emergency Download Mode (EDL), which allows you to flash the device at a low level through a special cable or test points.
🔹 How to enter EDL:
- Turn off the phone.
- Press Volume up + Volume down and connect to the PC.
- Hold the buttons for 20 to 30 seconds until the PC identifies the device as Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
⚠️ Attention: Firmware through EDL Without an official auth file (for new models) can cause loss IMEI or network locking. On devices with a Mediatek processor (e.g., Redmi) 10A) enter EDL Testpoint is often required (closing contacts on the board).
📌 Important: Firmware files for EDL (.mbn) are different from conventional Fastboots ROM. Download them only from official sources (for example, the site Xiaomi).
Security: What not to do in Fastboot
The bootloader mode provides low-level access to the device, so errors can be critical.
- 🚫 Firmware of unofficial files without compatibility check (risk of bricking").
- 🚫 Changing partitions (such as userdata or modem) without backup.
- 🚫 Using fastboot oem unlock commands on new models can lead to blocking of Mi Account.
- 🚫 Interrupting the firmware process (even if it is frozen) Wait 10-15 minutes before forced reboot.
🔹 Recommendation: Before any manipulations in Fastboot, create a backup of the persist partition (responsible for IMEI and network settings):
fastboot backup persist💡
On Xiaomi devices with a Snapdragon processor (such as Xiaomi 12 Pro), the firmware of unofficial cores or modified boot.img can cause the Anti-Rollback protection to work and the bootloader to permanently lock.