Unlocking the bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones is a must for custom firmware installation, root rights or brick recovery. But even after successfully obtaining the code from the manufacturer, many users face the problem: where exactly to enter this code? The official documentation of the Mi Unlock Tool often keeps silent about the nuances, and incorrect actions can lead to an account lock or reset the device.
In this article, we will look at all possible scenarios for entering an unlock code, from the standard path through the Mi Unlock Tool to alternative methods for devices with a blocked Mi Account. Particular attention will be paid to typical errors (for example, Couldn’t unlock or Current account is different from the account info on the device) and how to circumvent them. If you have already received the code via SMS or in the personal account of Xiaomi, but do not know what to do next – this guide is for you.
1. Standard method: Entering code through Mi Unlock Tool
The official Mi Unlock Tool is the only legal way to unlock the bootloader on most Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO devices. The code you received from the manufacturer is typed here.
Preparation of the device:
Transfer the smartphone to Fastboot mode (turn it off, then pinch Power + Volume down).
- Connect your phone to your PC through the original USB-cable (check that drivers are available) ADB/Fastboot fixed).
- Launch the Mi Unlock Tool (download the latest version from the official website).
2. Authorization and verification of the account:
Log in to the same Mi Account to which your smartphone is tied (if you have not previously done a binding - unlocking will be impossible).
Make sure that the phone settings (Settings → Xiaomi Account → Mi Cloud) have synchronization enabled and the device binding confirmed.
Entering the unlock code:
After successful authorization, the tool will show the Phone Connected message and the Unlock button.
The unlock code is entered automatically - you don't have to copy it manually! The system itself checks for permission from Xiaomi and starts the unlocking process.
If you request manual code entry (rarely), it will be in a separate window with the Verification Code field.
Install the Mi Unlock Tool with the latest version|Link the Mi Account to the device in the settings|Enable debugging on USB unlock OEM|Transfer the phone to Fastboot mode|Connect the original USB-cable-->
Important! If you click Unlock and you have a Couldn't unlock error. Wait 72/168/360 hours, it means you've previously tried to unlock the bootloader and you've got a temporary lock.
2. Alternative ways to enter code (if the Mi Unlock Tool does not work)
In some cases, the official tool may not recognize the code or give out errors. Consider 3 proven alternative methods that will help to bypass typical problems:
- 🔧 Through ADB-Commands: If the Mi Unlock Tool is stuck in the device verification phase, you can manually send the unlock code via the command: fastboot oem unlock-go [your code] Note: this method only works on devices with Global firmware ROM And they may claim root rights.
- 📱 Through the recovery menu (TWRP): In some models (for example, POCO F3 or Redmi Note 10 Pro) the code can be entered in the custom Recovery. TWRP Fastboot Flash Recovery twrp.img. Go to Advanced. → Terminal. Enter the echo command] > /sys/block/mmcblk0boot0/force_unlock.
Through the Xiaomi web interface
i.mi.com
Unlock Status
Mi 8
Redmi Note 7
Mi Unlock Tool|ADB-team|TWRP|Another way.-->
⚠️ Attention: Use of informal unlocking methods (e.g. through EDL-regime) may result in loss IMEI or locking the serial number of the device in the Xiaomi database!
3. Typical code entry errors and how to fix them
Even with the right code entry, users often encounter errors, and here is a table of common problems and solutions:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t unlock. Wait 72 hours | Exceeded number of attempts to unlock | Wait until the time is set (the countdown starts after the last failed attempt). |
| Current account is different from the account info on the device | Mi Unlock Tool account does not match the phone account | Sign in to the same account as in Settings → Xiaomi Account. If your phone is not turned on, restore access via account.xiaomi.com. |
| Device is not supported | The phone model does not support unlocking | Check the list of supported devices on en.miui.com/unlock. For Redmi. 6A, Mi A2 Lite and others may be required. EDL-unlock. |
| Network error | Problems with connecting to Xiaomi servers | Use a VPN (we recommend Hong Kong or Singapore). Disable the antivirus and firewall. |
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If Mi Unlock Tool gives Mi Account login failed, try changing your account region to China in your profile settings.
4.Where to enter the unlock code on a locked phone (without access to the system)
This becomes more complicated if your smartphone is locked (for example, after a reset or failed firmware) and you cannot log in to link your account, in which case the unlock code is entered via Fastboot mode, but with additional steps:
1. Account binding check:
If the phone was previously linked to a Mi Account but is no longer turned on, use the Mi Unlock Tool as standard – the code will be applied automatically.
- If you do not have an attachment, you will first have to unlock your Mi Account through Find Device (access to the device is required). email/SMS).
2. Unlock through EDL-The mode (for experienced users):
- Connect your phone to your PC in mode EDL (To do this, press the volume up. + Loudness down + USB-cable).
Use tools like Mi Flash Pro or QFil to firmware a firehose file with an unlock code.
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⚠️ Attention: Incorrect actions in EDL-The mode can turn the phone into a “brick” without the possibility of recovery even in the service center!
What to do if the unlock code does not come to the mail?
5. Unlock on new Xiaomi models (2023–2026)
Starting with Xiaomi 13, Redmi Note 12 and POCO F5, the company has tightened its unlock policy, requiring:
- 📅 Wait 7 days after linking your account to your device (previously 72 hours).
- 🔒 Proof of identity through passport scan (for some regions).
- 📱 Active use of the phone for at least 30 hours (the system tracks the time of operation).
The unlock code on new devices is entered exclusively through the Mi Unlock Tool, alternative methods (such as ADB or TWRP) are blocked at the firmware level. If you see this device cannot be unlocked error, it means that:
- The phone model does not support unlocking (e.g. Xiaomi Civi 3 or Redmi K60 Ultra for the Chinese market).
- The device was purchased less than 30 days ago (check the date of the first activation in Settings → About Phone).
- The Mi Account has limitations (e.g., it has been blocked for suspicious activity).
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On 2023-2026 devices, it is impossible to unlock a bootloader without waiting 7 days. Even with an official code, the system will block the attempt if the time condition is not met.
6.What to do after successfully unlocking the bootloader
Once you enter the code and the Unlocked successfully message appears, your Xiaomi smartphone will be reset to factory settings.
- 🔄 Installation of custom firmware: - Download TWRP For your model with twrp.me. - Sweeve the recavers through fastboot flash recovery twrp.img. - Install firmware (such as LineageOS or Pixel Experience) via TWRP.
- 🛠️ Getting root rights: - Install Magisk through TWRP patchy boot.img. - Check the SafetyNet (Use the Universal SafetyNet Fix module).
- 🔧 Brick recovery: - Sweeve the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in Clean All mode. - If the phone doesn't turn on, use EDL-Authorized account mode.
After unlocking the bootloader:
- Mi Pay and Widevine L1 are disabled (Netflix, Disney+ will work in 480p resolution).
- MIUI Air Updates (OTA) may not be installed – you will have to sew manually.
- Some banking applications (for example, Sberbank Online) can block work on unlocked devices.