How to get into TWRP on Xiaomi: from unlock to first launch

TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is an indispensable tool for Xiaomi smartphone owners, which provides access to advanced features from installing custom firmware to creating full backups of the system. However, the process of logging into TWRP on Xiaomi devices has its own nuances related to the security policy of the brand. Unlike the standard MIUI recovery, where it is enough to pinch the combination of buttons, to work with TWRP requires preliminary preparation: unlocking the bootloader, installing the recovery itself, and sometimes even bypassing the protective mechanisms.

In this article, we will discuss the current ways to log into TWRP on Xiaomi in 2026, including models with Qualcomm and Mediatek processors, and take into account the changes in Xiaomi policy after the release of MIUI 14 and HyperOS. Particular attention will be paid to typical errors that cause the device to hang on the logo or stop loading altogether. If you are a beginner, do not miss the sections about unlocking the bootloader and checking the firmware compatibility.

Preparation of the device: unlocking the loader

The first and mandatory step is to unlock the bootloader. Without it, the TWRP will simply not start, and attempts to install it will lead to an Orange State error or a complete lock on the device. Xiaomi allows unlocking officially, but the process takes time and meets several conditions:

• 🔗 Link your Mi Account to your device in settings (Settings) → Xiaomi account).
• ⏳ Wait 7-15 days after binding (depending on the model and region).
• 💻 Install the official Mi Unlock Tool utility on Windows PC.
• 🔑 Enable the Developer Mode and Allow OEM Unlock in Settings → The phone. → Version. MIUI (press 7 times).

Once the bootloader is unlocked, the device will automatically reset to factory settings. All data will be deleted, so save important information in advance. If you miss this step, the TWRP installation will end up with a Fastboot mode error with a red warning.

⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi models 12/13/14 New (HyperOS) unlocking may require additional confirmation via SMS If the Mi Unlock Tool gives you a Couldn't unlock error, try using the tool version at least below. 5.5.224.30.

2. Installation of TWRP: version selection and installation method

Once you unlock the bootloader, you need to install the recover itself, and there are two key things: choosing the right version of the TWRP for your model and the installation method, and mismatching the version will lead to a bootloop or a broken sensor.

Official assembly TWRP For Xiaomi, the latest versions are published on twrp.me. However, for many models (especially new ones), the latest versions are supported by enthusiasts on the forums. XDA Developers or 4PDA. For example, for the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ fit TWRP 3.7.0_12-v7.4_A14 from mauronofrio, and for POCO F5 — TWRP 3.7.0_12-0-mondrian.

Methods of installation:

• 🖥️ Fastboot (recommended for most models):
• 📱 Through the Official Appendix TWRP App (only for unlocked devices).
• 🔄 Through another custom recavérie (if) TWRP It is already installed, but an update is required).

⚠️ Note: On devices with Dynamic Partition (e.g. Xiaomi) 11T Pro, Redmi K50) The standard fastboot flash recovery command won't work. Instead, use fastboot flash recovery. recovery_ab twrp.img fastboot boot twrp.img Otherwise, the recavator will be replaced by stock at the first reboot.

3. How to log into TWRP on Xiaomi: button combinations

Once installed successfully, the only thing left to do is to start the TWRP, and the method depends on how the Recovery were stitched:

If you press the combination, the device loads into a standard MIUI recap, then the TWRP was not stitched correctly.

• 📌 Use the correct.img file for your model.
• 🔌 Cable USB Supports data transfer (not just charging).
• 🖱️ In fastboot, the device is defined by the command fastboot devices.

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If, after entering, TWRP Sensor is not working, connect OTG-This is a common problem on new Xiaomi models due to kernel incompatibility.

4. Typical errors and their solutions

Even if you follow all the instructions, users often face problems.

Error: Orange State or Red Screen in fastboot

Reason: Unlocked bootloader or attempt to flash TWRP onto locked device.

Solution: Complete the unlock process through the Mi Unlock Tool. If an error appears after unlocking, try:

1. Refuse stock recaps through fastboot flash recovery stock_recovery.img.
2. Then re-install the TWRP.

Mistake: Hanging on MIUI logo after leaving TWRP

Reason: no file is available disable_forced_encryption (encrypted FBE) or damaged boot section.

Decision:

1. In TWRP, go to Advanced → File Manager.
2. Remove or rename the folder /data/system/locksettings.db.
3. Squeeze Magisk (if root is required) or reset via Wipe → Format Data.

Error: "Unable to mount /data" or request password

Reason: Encryption of user data (FBE) is enabled.

Solution: Enter the screen lock password (if it has been set). If it doesn't work, format the Data section (all data will be deleted!).

5. Additional settings in TWRP

After the first entry into TWRP, it is recommended to perform several actions for stable operation:

• 🔄 Make a full backup: Select the Boot, System, Data and Vendor partitions. Save the backup to SD-card.
• 🔐 Disable Forced Encryption (if you do not use a password): in Advanced → Terminal enter: echo "0" > /metadata/com.android.metadata.encryption
• 📱 Install Magisk for root rights: download the latest version Magisk.zip and run through Install.
• 🔄 Update TWRP Update (if available) through Advanced → Update Recovery.

On models with Dynamic Partition (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S Ultra after installation TWRP You may need to patch the patch. disable_dm-verity_forceencrypt.zip, You can download it to avoid bootloop. XDA or 4PDA model-themed.

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Always check firmware and modification compatibility with your Xiaomi model. Installing an inappropriate TWRP or Magisk can result in a “brick” (complete device failure).

6.TWRP login on a locked bootloader: workarounds

If the bootloader is not unlocked yet, but you need to access the TWRP urgently (for example, to recover data), there are temporary solutions that are only suitable for power users and carry risks!

Method 1: One-time boot via fastboot

This method does not flash TWRP into the device memory, but launches it once:

fastboot boot twrp.img

Once it's restarted, it'll go back to the drain recavator, suitable for backups or data backups.

Method 2: Exploits to bypass locks (only for older models)

Some devices (e.g. Redmi Note 7/8) have exploits that allow you to temporarily unlock the bootloader without waiting, such as the EDL Tool utility or firehose-based scripts.

• ⚠️ It doesn't work on all models.
• ⚠️ It can cause hard brick (irreparable damage).
• ⚠️ Requires deep knowledge ADB and EDL.

⚠️ Attention: Use of informal unlocking methods (e.g. through EDL) Xiaomi is actively fighting against such workarounds, so the risk is high.

7. Frequent Questions and Answers (FAQ)