Introduction: Why unlock the bootloader on Xiaomi?
The bootloader on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones is blocked by the manufacturer by default, which is designed to protect the device from unauthorized changes, but at the same time limits users in the possibility of customization. Unlocking allows you to install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience), obtain root rights, and also allows you to restore the device in the event of software failures.
However, the process of unlocking comes with risks: wrong actions can lead to a blink (complete failure) of the device or loss of warranty. In 2026, Xiaomi tightened the requirements for unlocking, so old instructions often do not work. In this guide, we will discuss the current official method of unlocking through the Mi Unlock Tool, taking into account the latest changes in company policy.
Preparation of the device: what to do before unlocking
Before starting the process, make sure your device meets the key requirements:
- 📱 The smartphone model should support unlocking (see the list of officially supported models on the Xiaomi website). New devices (for example, Xiaomi 14 or Redmi Note 13 Pro).+) may have additional limitations.
- 🔄 Version. MIUI It should be global (global) ROM) or Chinese (China) ROM) with the latest update. Local firmware (e.g, MIUI EU) They can block the process.
- 🔋 Battery charge at least 60%, and unlocking will be interrupted if the device runs out in the process.
- 🔐 Mi Account must be linked to the device for a minimum of 7 days (new 2026 rule) and phone number confirmation is required.
If you’re using a HyperOS device (a new shell from Xiaomi that replaced MIUI on some models), the unlocking process remains similar, but additional confirmation via Mi Account may be required.
⚠️ Attention: Unlocking the bootloader will reset all data on the device to factory settings. Create a backup of important files through Settings → Google → Backup or manually.
Linking the Mi Account to the device: step-by-step instructions
From 2023, Xiaomi requires that you link your Mi Account to your device before unlocking, a step that is often missed, leading to the Couldn't verify device error in the Mi Unlock Tool.
- Go to Settings → Mi Account and log in (if not already done).
- Turn on data synchronization and confirm the phone number via SMS.
- Activate the option Settings → Additional → Developer → Mi Unlock status (on some models, the path may differ).
- Connect your device to the Internet via mobile data (Wi-Fi may not work) and wait for notification of successful linking (usually takes 2-5 minutes).
After you have an account tied, you have to wait 168 hours (7 days) – this is a mandatory requirement for Xiaomi for new devices. If you bought a used smartphone, the previous owner must untie your account through the web version of Mi Account.
Mi Account linked to device | Mobile Internet (not Wi-Fi) | Developer mode enabled | Device charged ≥60% |Data backup made-->
Installation of Mi Unlock Tool and drivers
The official Mi Unlock Tool is the only legal way to unlock the bootloader, and you can download it only from the official Xiaomi website (third-party versions may contain malicious code). 6.5.406.51 (Windows 10/11).
Before installation, follow the following steps:
- Download the archive with the utility and unpack it into a folder without Cyrillic characters (for example, C:\MiUnlock).
- Turn off the driver digital signature check in Windows: 1. Press Win + X → Command Prompt (Administrator) 2. Enter: bcdedit /set nointegritychecks on 3. Reboot the PC.
- Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode (clip Volume down + Power when the device is off).
- Run MiUnlock.exe on behalf of the administrator and wait for the driver to install.
If the utility does not recognize the device, check:
- 🔌 Correct connection (port) USB 2.0 is more stable than 3.0).
- 🖥️ No conflicting drivers (remove old versions via Device Manager).
- 📱 Fastboot mode (the screen should display a hare in a hat-eared with the inscription) FASTBOOT).
⚠️ Warning: Antiviruses (e.g. Avast or Kaspersky) can block Mi Unlock Tool as potentially dangerous software. Add a folder with the utility as an exception or temporarily disable protection.
Unblocking process: from account binding to success
When the 7-day waiting period has expired, you can proceed to unlock.
- Turn off your smartphone and put it in Fastboot mode (clip Volume Down + Power).
- Connect the device to your PC and start the Mi Unlock Tool (autorize under the same Mi Account as on your smartphone).
- The utility should display the message Phone connected. Press Unlock.
- Confirm unlocking on the smartphone screen (if a request appears).
- Wait for the process to be completed (usually 10 to 30 seconds), and if you say Unlocked successfully, you'll be successful.
Once unlocked, the device will automatically reset to factory settings. The first boot can take up to 10 minutes - don't interrupt the process!
| Posts in Mi Unlock Tool | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t verify device | Account not tied or has not passed 7 days | Wait 168 hours or check your account’s link |
| Current account is different from the account info on the device | On PC and smartphone different accounts | Sign in with one account everywhere |
| Device isn’t supported | The model does not support unlocking | Check the list of supported devices on the Xiaomi website |
| Network error | Problems with the Internet or servers Xiaomi | Try it later or use a VPN (like Hong Kong) |
💡
If Mi Unlock Tool gives Mi Account not bound to this device, try linking your account again by disabling two-factor authentication in your Mi Account settings.
What to do after unlocking the loader?
Successful unlocking opens up new possibilities, but it takes care.
- 📦 Install custom recovery (for example, TWRP) backup ZIP-file.
- 🔧 Get root rights through Magisk (allows you to modify system files).
- 🔄 Switch custom firmware (LineageOS, ArrowOS, Pixel Experience).
- 🔄 Restore the device after a soft breech (if the original firmware is damaged).
However, keep in mind the risks:
- ⚠️ Loss of warranty (official service centers will refuse repairs).
- ⚠️ Malware Vulnerability (without Xiaomi Security Updates).
- ⚠️ Possible problems with banking applications (for example, Sberbank Online or Google Pay can block work on rooted devices).
How to check the status of the loader?
Frequent mistakes and their solutions
Even when following the instructions, users face problems. Consider typical scenarios:
1.Couldn't verify device error after 7 days wait
Reason: Xiaomi servers have not confirmed the account's link.
- Untie and re-link the Mi Account.
- Use mobile internet (not Wi-Fi) to link.
- Try another account (if the device is used).
2.The utility does not see the device in Fastboot mode
Reason: There is no driver or conflict USB-The decision of the ports:
- Install drivers manually through Device Manager (select Android Bootloader Interface).
- Try another one. USB-cable (preferably original).
- Turn off all others. USB-PC-based.
3. After unlocking the device does not turn on
Reason: interrupted process or incompatible firmware.
- Swipe the official firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in Fastboot mode.
- If the screen is black, the PC defines the device as Qualcomm. HS-USB QDLoader 9008 will be required. EDL-Firmware (for experienced users only!).
fastboot -wThis command will clear the data and cache partitions, but will keep the unlocked bootloader.-->