Unlocking Xiaomi Redmi 4 Prime bootloader: a complete guide with proven methods

Xiaomi Redmi 4 Prime is one of the brand’s most popular budget smartphones, but even years later, its owners are faced with the need to unlock the bootloader.Without this procedure, you can not install custom restore (TWRP), obtain root rights or flash alternative firmware. However, since 2017, Xiaomi has tightened security policies, and standard instructions often stop working.

In this article, you will find updated unlocking methods for Redmi 4 Prime (codename markw), including bypassing new restrictions, solving common errors (e.g. Couldn't unlock or Device is locked) and tips for minimizing risks. We will look at both the official way through the Mi Unlock Tool, and alternative options for devices with a locked Mi Account or an outdated version of MIUI.

Why do I need to unlock the bootloader on Redmi 4 Prime?

Factory locking of the bootloader on Xiaomi devices is a measure of protection against unauthorized access, but it also limits the user in the possibilities:

• 🔓 Install custom firmware: Without unlocking, you can’t flash LineageOS, Pixel Experience or other alternative OSes that can extend the life of the device.
• ⚙️ Root access: Superuser rights (Magisk, SuperSU) require unlocked bootloader and custom recovery.
• 🔄 Recovery after crashes: If the smartphone stopped booting (for example, due to a failed update), the unlocked bootloader allows you to flash stock firmware through Fastboot.
• 🚀 Performance optimization: Removing system applications (bloatver), kernel settings, or overclocking the processor is only possible with the bootloader unlocked.

But there’s a downside: unlocking resets the device to factory settings, voids the warranty (if it’s still valid), and increases the risk of installing malware. In addition, some versions of MIUI may experience problems with Google Pay or banking apps after unlocking due to the SafetyNet trigger.

Preparing for Unlocking: What to Do in advance

Before starting the procedure, make sure that all the preconditions are met, and neglecting them can lead to a permanent locking of the device (hard-brick) or the inability to complete the unlock.

Create a backup copy of data (photos, contacts, messages)

Charge your smartphone at least 60%

Make sure that MIUI is not lower than 8.0 (for compatibility with Mi Unlock Tool)

Disable Find My Device and sync Mi Account

Download the latest version of Mi Unlock Tool (2026)

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From 2020, Xiaomi requires that the device be tied to the account for at least 72 hours (previously 24-48 hours).If you just created an account or connected a device, wait at least 3 days, otherwise the Mi Unlock Tool will give an error Couldn't verify the device.

Also check the firmware version. On Redmi 4 Prime with MIUI below 8.0, the official unlock tool may not work. Update your smartphone via Settings → About Phone → System Update or manually via the Mi Flash Tool if automatic updates are not available.

⚠️ Note: If your device was purchased hand-held and is already linked to someone else's Mi Account, unlocking through the official method will not be possible. EDL-The mode (see section below), but it is risky and can cause breakdown.

Unlocking with Mi Unlock Tool

This is the most reliable method recommended by Xiaomi, which works on most devices, but requires compliance with all conditions.

1. Activate Developer Mode: Go to Settings → About Phone and 7 times click on MIUI Version. After that, the Settings menu → Additional option For Developers will appear.
2. Put the debugging on. USB unlock OEM: In the Developer Menu, activate: 🔌 Debugging by USB 🔓 Unlocking OEM (It may be called a factory unlock)

Mi

device-wise

In the same menu, find Mi Unblock Status and click Add Account and Device. Make sure the device is linked to your account (a successful link message will appear).

Mi Unlock Tool

Download the latest version of the tool from the official website (registration is required). Install the Xiaomi and ADB drivers (you can use the Mi PC Suite).

Launch unlock.

Connect your smartphone in Fastboot mode (turn off the device, then press Volume Down + Power). In Mi Unlock Tool, log in under the same Mi Account as on your phone and press Unlock.

It takes 5-10 minutes, and when it's done, it automatically reboots with the bootloader unlocked, and all the data is erased, and that's inevitable!

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If the Mi Unlock Tool is not a compatible firmware version, upgrade MIUI to the latest stable version via Settings → System Update. Redmi 4 Prime requires a minimum of MIUI 8.0 or later.

Alternative methods: if the official method does not work

If the Mi Unlock Tool refuses to unlock the bootloader (for example, due to a Device is locked error or linking to someone else's account), you can try workarounds. They are more risky, but sometimes the only possible ones.

Method 1: Unlocking through EDL-The mode (for experienced users)

EDL (Emergency Download Mode) is an emergency firmware mode that allows you to bypass the bootloader lock, but it requires:

• 🔧 Authorized Xiaomi Account (or bypassing through the EDL-Loaders who violate the license agreement).

Instructions:

1. Transfer the device to EDL-Mode: Turn off the smartphone, press Volume up + Loudness down + Power and connect to the PC.
2. The device manager should appear Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008.
3. Run Mi Flash Pro, select firmware and press Flash.

⚠️ Attention: Use EDL Without authorization, Xiaomi may lead to a lock IMEI This method is recommended only in extreme cases when other methods have been exhausted.

Method 2: Test Point bypass (for Redmi 4 Prime with a blocked account)

If the device is tied to someone else's Mi Account and you can't unlock it, you can use the hardware method through Test Point, which requires disassembling the smartphone and closing the contacts on the board.

Step-by-step:

1. Turn off your smartphone and remove the back cover.
2. Find Test Point on the motherboard (for Redmi 4 Prime, these are usually contacts next to the battery connector marked TP).
3. Close the contacts with tweezers or wire and connect USB-plug-in.
4. The device will go into EDL-mode, after which you can flash stock firmware through Mi Flash.

What to do after successful unblocking?

Once the bootloader is unlocked, new opportunities open up for you, but new challenges also arise:

• 🔄 Install custom recovery: The most popular option — TWRP for Redmi 4 Download the current version from the official website and go through fastboot flash recovery twrp.img.
• 🛡️ Make a backup of the persist section: This will help restore IMEI and the serial number if they get lost after the firmware.
• 📱 Search Magisk for root rights: Download the latest version of Magisk and install via TWRP. This will allow you to get root without the SafetyNet trigger (important for banking applications).
• 🔍 Check the unlock status: Enter the fastboot oem device-info terminal – Device unlocked: true will confirm success.

If you plan to install custom firmware (like LineageOS or ArrowOS), make sure it is Markw compatible.Some firmware requires additional patches to make the camera or modem work properly.

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Once the bootloader is unlocked, do not update via OTA, which can result in re-blocking. All updates must be manually installed via TWRP or Fastboot.

Typical errors and their solutions

Even with the correct following of the instructions, users often face problems.

If the smartphone stops turning on (the “brick”) after unlocking, don’t panic. In most cases, it can be restored:

1. Swipe the stock firmware through the Mi Flash Tool in Fastboot mode.
2. If the device is not detected, try it. EDL-regime (see above).
3. If nothing helps, contact the service center – sometimes you need to flash through the eMMC.

FAQ: Frequent questions about unlocking Redmi 4 Prime