Unlocking the Bootloader of Xiaomi Devices: A Step-by-Step Guide
Unlocking the bootloader on your Xiaomi device is the first step towards gaining full control over your device. This process allows you to install custom ROMs, recoveries, and gain root access. However, it's important to note that unlocking the bootloader will erase all data on your device and may void your warranty. Proceed with caution and make sure to back up your data before starting.
Here's a detailed guide to help you unlock the bootloader of your Xiaomi device:
Prerequisites:
- Xiaomi Account: Ensure you have a Xiaomi account. If not, create one here.
- USB Cable: A compatible USB cable to connect your device to the computer.
- SIM Card: Insert a SIM card into your device and keep it inserted throughout the process.
- Backup: Backup your important data as unlocking the bootloader will erase everything on your device.
- Mi Unlock Tool: Download the Mi Unlock Tool from the official Xiaomi website.
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Enable Developer Options and OEM Unlocking
- Open Settings on your Xiaomi device.
- Go to About Phone and tap on MIUI version repeatedly until it says "You are now a developer!".
- Navigate back to Settings and go to Additional settings > Developer options.
- Enable OEM unlocking and USB debugging.
Step 2: Bind Your Xiaomi Account
- In Developer options, find Mi Unlock status.
- Tap on Add account and device. Make sure you have a stable internet connection (preferably Wi-Fi) for this step.
- Important: Keep your SIM card inserted and do not log out from your Xiaomi account during the waiting period.
Step 3: Boot Your Device into Fastboot Mode
- Power off your device.
- Press and hold the Volume Down button and the Power button simultaneously until you see the Fastboot screen.
Step 4: Use Mi Unlock Tool
- Extract the downloaded Mi Unlock Tool on your computer.
- Open the Mi Unlock Tool folder and run the
miflash_unlock.exe
file.
- Sign in with your Xiaomi account.
- Connect your device to the computer using a USB cable.
- Once your device is detected, click on the Unlock button.
- You may see a warning message about the consequences of unlocking the bootloader. Read it carefully and proceed by clicking Unlock anyway.
- The unlocking process will begin. If this is your first time unlocking the bootloader, you will encounter a waiting period of 168 hours (7 days). This waiting period is mandatory, and you need to wait for the timer to expire.
Step 5: Important Considerations During the Waiting Period
- Do not remove the SIM card from your device during the waiting period.
- Do not log out of your Xiaomi account from the device.
- If you remove the SIM card or log out from your Xiaomi account, the 168-hour timer will reset, and you will need to wait another 168 hours.
Step 6: Complete the Unlocking Process
- After the waiting period has expired, repeat Step 3 to boot your device into Fastboot Mode.
- Run the Mi Unlock Tool again and follow the same steps to unlock your device.
- The unlocking process will now complete without the waiting period.
- Once done, you will see a success message.
Step 7: Reboot Your Device
- Click on Reboot phone in the Mi Unlock Tool.
- Your device will reboot, and you will see a message stating that the bootloader is unlocked.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection during the unlocking process.
- Make sure your device is sufficiently charged.
- If the unlocking fails, wait for a few days and try again. Sometimes Xiaomi imposes a waiting period before you can unlock the bootloader.
By following these steps, you can unlock the bootloader on your Xiaomi device, giving you the freedom to customize and optimize your smartphone experience. Remember, unlocking the bootloader is just the beginning. With great power comes great responsibility, so proceed with caution!
For further assistance and discussions, feel free to join our Flarum forum community.
Happy unlocking! 🚀
Disclaimer: Unlocking the bootloader may void your warranty and erase all data on your device. Proceed at your own risk. The author is not responsible for any damage or data loss.
Feel free to ask any questions or share your experience in the comments below!