The bootloader on Xiaomi smartphones is one of the most common problems users face when trying to flash a device, obtain root rights or install custom firmware. Xiaomi blocks the bootloader by default on all modern models (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Mi 13, etc.) for security reasons, but this creates difficulties for enthusiasts and even ordinary users who need to reflash the phone after a crash.
In this article, you’ll find the most current ways to unlock a bootloader on Xiaomi in 2026, from the official method through the Mi Unlock Tool to workarounds for devices with errors like “Couldn’t unlock” or “Device not connected.” We’ll also look at why the bootloader can lock again, how to avoid data loss when unlocked, and what to do if Xiaomi refuses permission to unlock.
Why Xiaomi is blocking the bootloader and why unlock it
A bootloader is a software component that starts the operating system when a smartphone is turned on. Xiaomi blocks it for several reasons:
- 🔒 Protection against viruses and malware: a blocked bootloader prevents the installation of uncertified firmware that may contain malware.
- 📱 Compliance with warranty conditions: Unblocking will void warranty on most models (except for regions with special rules, such as the EU).
- 🔄 Update control: Xiaomi wants users to install only official firmware through the MIUI OTA.
However, unlocking the bootloader may be required in legitimate cases:
- 🛠️ Installing global firmware on the Chinese version of the smartphone (for example, for Redmi) K60 s CN ROM).
- 🔧 Recovery of the phone after a “brick” (software failure).
- 📲 Install custom firmware (LineageOS, Pixel Experience) or get root rights.
It is important to understand that unlocking the bootloader erases all data on the device (including photos, contacts and applications).
Unlocking with Mi Unlock Tool
Xiaomi’s most reliable and recommended method is to use the Mi Unlock Tool, but since 2023, the company has tightened the rules: it now requires a binding Mi Account account to a device and waiting 7-14 days before unlocking.
Step-by-step:
- Link your Mi Account to your phone: Go to Settings → Xiaomi Account. Sign in or create a new account. Enable data sync.
- Connect your phone to your PC: Use the original USB Type-C cable. Install Mi USB Driver drivers (you can download it on the official website).
After successfully unlocking, the phone will reboot and you will see the words “Unlocked” in Fastboot mode.
Link Mi Account to your phone|Enable the developer mode|Activate OEM-unlocking USB|Install Mi drivers USB Driver|Download Mi Unlock Tool from the official website-->
Frequent Unlocking Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even when following the official instructions, users often encounter errors, and consider the most common ways to solve them:
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Couldn’t unlock | It has not been 168 hours since the account was linked. | Wait 7 days or try alternative methods (see below). |
| Device not connected | Problems with drivers or cable. | Reinstall drivers, use the original cable, try another USB-port (preferably) USB 2.0). |
| Mi Account not bound | The account is not linked to the device or is used by another account in the Mi Unlock Tool. | Make sure that the phone and the program use the same account. If necessary, re-link. |
| Network error | Problems with the Internet connection or servers of Xiaomi. | Try using a VPN later (such as Hong Kong or Singapore). |
If the Mi Unlock Tool refuses to work even after waiting 7 days, try:
- 🔄 Change the version of the utility (for example, use Mi Unlock Tool 5.5.224.24 instead of the last one).
- 📱 Flash your phone to global firmware via Fastboot (instruction below).
- 🛠️ Use informal methods (risky, but sometimes works).
What to do if Xiaomi has blocked the account after unlocking?
Alternative Unlocking Methods (If Mi Unlock Tool is Not Working)
If the official method didn't work, you can try workarounds. Attention: these methods can violate the warranty and lead to a "brick" of the device. Use them at your own risk.
1. Unlocking through EDL (Emergency Download Mode)
EDL mode allows you to stitch the device around the locked bootloader.
- 🔧 Authorized Xiaomi account with rights EDL (You can buy it on forums, for example, XDA Developers).
- 💻 Mi Flash Tool and.tgz firmware for your model.
- 🔌 Cable USB Type-C and adapter EDL (circuitry).
Instructions:
- Put your phone into EDL mode (usually clamping Volume + and - when connected to a PC).
- Start the Mi Flash Tool, select the firmware and press Flash.
- After firmware, the bootloader may remain locked, but the phone will work.
2.Use of vulnerabilities in older versions of MIUI
Some versions of MIUI (e.g. MIUI 12.5 for Redmi Note 10) had vulnerabilities that allowed you to unlock the bootloader without waiting.
- Reverse to the vulnerable firmware version via Fastboot.
- Use scripts like fastboot oem unlock-go (not working on all models).
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Before using EDL, check if your model supports this mode. For example, POCO F3 and Redmi Note 11 are often blocked after being firmwareed through EDL without an authorized account.
How to avoid re-blocking the loader
After successful unlocking, the bootloader can lock again in the following cases:
- 🔄 When installing the official firmware through OTA (air-refurbishment").
- 📱 When resetting to factory settings (Factory Reset).
- 🔧 When running through the Mi Flash Tool with option clean_all_lock.
To avoid this:
- 🚫 Don't install it. OTA-Update only via Fastboot or TWRP.
- 🔒 Before resetting the settings, unlock the bootloader again.
- 📌 Use firmware marked "unlocked" or "global".
If the bootloader is blocked again, repeat the unlock procedure through the Mi Unlock Tool. Usually, a second wait of 7 days is not required.
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Unlocked bootloader does not mean that the phone has become "unprotected"; you can still use official firmware and updates, but you lose the warranty.
What to do if Xiaomi refused to unlock
Since 2026, Xiaomi has been refusing to unlock the bootloader for some models (for example, Xiaomi 13T, Redmi Note 12 Pro+).
⚠️ Note: Using informal methods can lead to a complete loss of the device's performance ("hard brick"). If the phone is important for work, contact the service center.
- 📧 Contact Xiaomi to unlock the bootloader for an objective reason (e.g., to recover from a crash.
- 🔧 Use unlock services (for example, UnlockBoot or MiAccountUnlock) Cost from 500 to 2000 rubles.
If nothing works, there are two options:
- Use the phone "as is" (without unlocking).
- Sell the device and buy a model with an already unlocked bootloader (for example, POCO F1 or Redmi K20 Pro older than 2021).