When you buy a Xiaomi smartphone, the bootloader is blocked by the manufacturer by default, to protect against unauthorized changes to the system that could disrupt the stability of the device or compromise data security. However, for many users — especially customization enthusiasts — such a lock becomes an obstacle to installing custom firmware, root rights or alternative recoveries.
term OEM-Unlocking is often found in the context of unlocking a Xiaomi bootloader, but not everyone understands what it means in practice, OEM-Unlocking involves activating a special option in the developer settings, which allows you to bypass some of the manufacturer’s restrictions.Without this step, even the official Xiaomi tool may refuse to unlock the bootloader, especially on new models released after 2021.
In this article, we will explain what is OEM-unlocking the bootloader, how it differs from the standard procedure, what risks the device carries, and how to properly perform it to avoid common errors. POCO, This process can take up to 720 hours to process on some devices.
What is it? OEM-Unlocking and why you need it
The OEM Unlocking option (or Factory Unlocking) is a feature in the Developer Settings menu that allows you to unlock a smartphone bootloader through the manufacturer’s official tools. On Xiaomi devices, this option has become a prerequisite for unlocking since 2020, when the company tightened its security policy.
No activation. OEM-unlock:
- 🔒 Mi Unlock Tool will not be able to connect to Xiaomi servers to verify your account.
- ⏳ The unlocking process will be interrupted at the device verification stage, even if you have linked your Mi Account.
- 📱 On some models (e.g. Xiaomi) 12/13 series, Redmi Note 11/12) without OEM-Unlocking is not even possible to start the procedure.
It is important to understand that the option itself will not unlock the bootloader – it only allows the official tool to do so. Without the subsequent use of the Mi Unlock Tool or alternative methods (for example, through fastboot), the bootloader will remain locked.
⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI 14+ New models (e.g. Xiaomi 14, Redmi Turbo 3) OEM-unlocking may be hidden or blocked until additional conditions, such as binding, are met SIM-card to Mi Account.
Differences between OEM-unlocking and standard procedure
Many users are confused OEM-It's actually two different steps in the same process:
| Criteria | OEM-unlock | Full unlocking of the loader |
|---|---|---|
| What's he doing? | Allows the official tool to unlock the bootloader | Removes the bootloader lock, allowing you to install custom firmware |
| Where it's on | In the developer settings (Settings → About the phone → MIUI version) | Mi Unlock Tool or fastboot |
| Does the account require a Mi? | No (but it is needed for full unlocking) | Yeah, with device-based binding. |
| Waiting time | No (activated immediately) | 72 to 720 hours (depending on model) |
For example, if you have activated OEM-Unlock, but you didn't use the Mi Unlock Tool, the bootloader will remain locked, but the system will be ready to unlock. On the other hand, if you try to unlock the bootloader without the bootloader on. OEM-Xiaomi will issue a Couldn’t unlock or Device not supported error.
On new devices (e.g., new ones, POCO F5, Redmi K60) The process is more complicated: now after activation OEM-Unlocking may require additional confirmation through SMS Wait for a few days before the Mi Unlock Tool allows you to continue.
Step-by-step instruction: how to turn on OEM-unlock
Activation process OEM-unlocking is the same for most Xiaomi devices, but there are nuances for different versions MIUI. Below is a universal instruction that is suitable for models 2020-2026:
- Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone. Click 7 times on MIUI Version until you become a developer!
- Turn it on. OEM-Unlock: Return to Settings → Additionally. → For developers (on MIUI 14+ The path may be different: Settings → Memory. →... → For developers, find the Factory Unlock option (OEM Unlocking) and activate it. Confirm the action by clicking Allow in the window that appears.
Link your Mi Account to your device:
- In the same developer menu, find Mi Unlock Status and click Add Account and Device.
- Sign in to your Xiaomi account (if not authorized).
- Wait until the system confirms the binding (may take up to 24 hours).
On some devices (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro, Redmi Note 12 Pro)+) post-activation OEM-The unblocking warning appears that unlocking the bootloader may result in a loss of warranty.This is a standard message, but it needs to be confirmed to continue.
Battery charge > 60%|Backup copy of data created|Mi Account is tied to the device|USB-debugging is on|The original USB Type C cable-->
⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI Global Stable version below 12.5 option OEM-In this case, you need to update the firmware to the current version or use alternative methods (for example, through the use of a new version). ADB).
What Xiaomi models require OEM-unlock
From 2020, almost all Xiaomi, Redmi and other devices will be available. POCO require activation OEM-Unlock before using the Mi Unlock Tool, but there are exceptions and features for different lines:
- 📱 Flagship models (Xiaomi) 11/12/13/14 series, Mix 4/Fold): OEM-Unlocking is mandatory. SIM-cards to Mi Account (on some firmware) Waiting time to unlock: until 720 hours (30 days).
- 📱 Mid-size segment (Redmi Note) 10/11/12, POCO X3/X4/X5): OEM-The unblocking is activated in the standard way: 72–168 hours (3–7 On some firmware (MIUI EU) The option may be blocked.
- 📱 Budget models (Redmi) A1/A2, POCO M4/M5): OEM-unlocking is often absent from the developer menu. manual activation is required through ADB (Adb shell settings put global oem_unlock_enabled 1). Waiting time: up to 72 hours.
On devices with MediaTek processors (e.g. Redmi 10A, POCO C40), unlocking the bootloader via OEM may not be possible due to hardware limitations, and in such cases, informal methods are required, which increases the risk of “bricking” the device.
What to do if the option OEM-unlocking is not available?
Risks and consequences of unlocking the loader
Unlocking the bootloader is an irreversible process that entails several important consequences:
- Loss of warranty: Xiaomi officially declares that unlocking the bootloader will void the warranty on the device, both hardware and software malfunctions, but in practice, service centers often turn a blind eye to an unlocked bootloader unless the problem is related to the firmware.
- Data reset: The process of unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool completely erases user data (photos, contacts, apps).The only way to avoid data loss is to back up via Mi Cloud or locally on your PC.
- Security vulnerabilities: Unlocked bootloader allows you to install uncertified software, which can lead to: 🛡️ Leaking personal data through malicious firmware. 🔓 Bypassing Widevine's protection L1 (Loss of the opportunity to watch Netflix, Disney+ into HD). 📵 Problems with the work of banking applications (for example, SberBank Online, Tinkoff can block access).
In addition, on some devices, after unlocking, they stop working:
- 📸 Wide dynamic range (HDR) cell-wise.
- 🎮 Game Turbo features (deteriorating performance in games).
- 🔋 Optimization of battery charging (Adaptive Charging).
fastboot oem lockHowever, this will only work if you have not installed custom firmware, otherwise you may need a complete reset through the EDL-The mode (only for experienced users!).-->
Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even with the right activation OEM-When you unlock the bootloader, you often encounter errors when you try to unlock the bootloader. Here are the most common problems and their solutions:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t unlock. Try again later | The device is not tied to your Mi Account or the waiting time has not expired. | Wait 72-720 hours (depending on the model) and try again. |
| Device not supported | The device model is not supported by the current version of the Mi Unlock Tool. | Upgrade to the latest version or use an alternative fastboot method. |
| Account not bound | Mi Account is not linked to the device or the link is not confirmed. | Go to Settings → Mi Account → Security and confirm the binding via SMS. |
| OEM unlock is disabled by administrator | Option. OEM-Unlocking Disabled by Security Policy (often on corporate devices). | Reset the device to factory settings or use ADB to force it to turn on. |
Another common mistake is that the Mi Unlock Tool freezes at 50% or 99%, which is usually due to:
- 🔌 Unstable. USB-Connection (use the original cable and port) USB 2.0).
- 🖥️ The outdated version of Xiaomi drivers on PC (download the latest drivers from the official website).
- 📱 Insufficient battery level (must be at least 60%).
💡
If Mi Unlock Tool gives you a 10008 or 86006 error, it means that Xiaomi servers have temporarily blocked your account due to too frequent attempts to unlock. IP-addresses (for example, via mobile Internet).
Alternative Unlocking Methods Without OEMs
If for some reason you are unable to activate OEM-unlocking (e.g., no option or operator locks), there are alternative ways to unlock the bootloader, but they require more technical knowledge and carry increased risks.
Among the most common methods:
- 🔧 Through fastboot and unofficial scripts: Modified versions of the Mi Unlock Tool (e.g. Mi Unlock Tool Bypass) are used. You need to unlock the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock commands. Risk: High chance of "bricking" if you error commands.
- 🔧 Through EDL-Emergency Download Mode: Allows you to flash the device in emergency mode, bypassing the bootloader lock. Requires an authorized Xiaomi account to access the bootloader. EDL-Risk: If you don't firmware correctly, it can turn into a brick".
It is important to understand that alternative methods often violate Xiaomi’s terms of use and can lead to:
- 🚫 Loss of access to official updates MIUI.
- 🔒 Blocking Mi Accounts for Suspicious Activity.
- 📵 Inability to restore the device through standard means.
⚠️ Note: Using unofficial unlock methods can cause the device to be marked as unauthorized in Xiaomi’s database.This means that even after re-locking the bootloader, you will not be able to receive any downloads. OTA-Update or use certain features (e.g. Mi Pay or Mi Cloud).