Bootloader unlocking is the initial step in order to use the custom ROM or firmware update/upgrade on an android device. Many users want to unlock the bootloader in order to experience different Android-based custom ROMS, mods on their devices. If you are an MIUI user for a long time then using a different UI through the custom ROM is like a dream. This article is a complete guide to unlocking the Bootloader of any phone made by manufacturers Xiaomi, Redmi, or Poco.
Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco brand’s devices come with the MIUI which is based on the Android operating system. And MIUI is really popular among the other ones. But after some time user may get bored with it, and wants a different feel on their devices. So, flashing a new custom ROM is common.
But before flashing any custom ROM users must have to unlock the Bootloader of their device which can be done using the Mi-Unlock tool. Mi unlock tool is a simple tool that is used to unlock the Bootloader of any Xiaomi, Redmi, or Poco device. The tool does not need any installation, instead, it comes in a zip file that can be downloaded from here.
Table of Contents
Downloads require to Unlock Bootloader
ADB and Fastboot Divers
To unlock the Bootloader the device must connect to the computer in the fastboot mode which will require the fastboot drivers to properly communicate with the Mi-Flash tool. Installing ADB and fastboot drivers on a computer is like snapping fingers, you can download and read the ADB and Fastboot driver installation guide here.
Mi Unlock Tool
Mi-unlock too is needed to unlock the bootloader, the tool is developed by Xiaomi manufactures. You can download the Mi unlock tool from here. After downloading the file extract it using the Winrar and place the folder on your desktop window.
Things to Do on Phone
1. Enable the Developer options on your phone.
2. Open the developer options and enable the OEM unlocking there.
3. Now open the Mi unlock status options in the developer option and click on add account and device. This will require to sign in the Mi account linked with the sim card and also toggle the internet connection with the same sim card. After “added successfully” message close the developer options.
If you have not added any Mi-account on your phone then add one by navigating to setting>mi account.
Unlocking the Bootloader will wipe all the storage and reset your device, so take the backup of your important data from your phone.
Unlocking bootloader will also require an internet connection. So, make sure your PC/laptop is connected to the internet.
How to Unlock Bootloader of Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco Phone using Mi Unlock Tool
Open the Mi unlock tool folder.
Now run the Batch_Unlock application.
A tool will open like the below image.
Now connect your phone in the fastboot mode via USB cable to your computer (how to open fastboot mode).
Once your phone is connected and detected by the system, you will see the Serial number and device name there along with the unlock status which is obviously locked for now.
Now sign in with your Mi-account that you are already using on your phone. It may ask you to verify through OTP, so remove and insert the sim card on a different phone. You can remove the sim card while in fastboot mode, no problem at all.
OTP is not needed all times, it asks only sometimes.
After signing in successfully, select your device and click on unlock button. Your device will be unlocked in a few seconds and after that, it will automatically get rebooted.
The reboot might take longer, so be patience. And make sure your device is charged. You can remove the USB from the computer while your device is rebooting and can connect to the charger.
