Understanding Bootloader
The bootloader is a program that runs on your smartphone before the operating system. It instructs the device on how to boot up and also handles the loading of the OS. In most cases, the default bootloader is locked by manufacturers for security reasons. This prevents users from installing unauthorized software. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to gain access to features not available in the stock firmware and is essential for advanced modifications.
Requirements for Unlocking Bootloader
Before you start, ensure you have the following requirements: 1. **Xiaomi Account**: Create a Xiaomi account and log in on your device. 2. **Backup Your Data**: Unlocking the bootloader may erase all data on your device. Make sure to back up important files. 3. **Battery Charge**: Ensure that your device has at least 70% battery charge to prevent interruptions during the unlocking process. 4. **USB Cable and Computer**: You will need a working USB cable and a computer with ADB and Fastboot tools installed.
Preparing Your Xiaomi Smartphone
Here are the steps to prepare your device before unlocking the bootloader: 1. **Enable Developer Options**: Go to 'Settings' > 'About Phone' and tap on 'MIUI version' seven times to enable Developer Options. 2. **Enable OEM Unlocking**: Go back to 'Settings' > 'Additional Settings' > 'Developer Options' and toggle on 'OEM unlocking'. 3. **Enable USB Debugging**: Still in Developer Options, enable 'USB Debugging'. 4. **Request Unlock Permission**: Visit the official Mi Unlock webpage (https://en.miui.com/unlock/) and follow the instructions to request permission to unlock the bootloader.
Unlocking the Bootloader
Once you have completed the preparations, follow these steps to unlock the bootloader: 1. **Connect Your Device to Computer**: Use a USB cable to connect your Xiaomi phone to the computer. 2. **Download Mi Unlock Tool**: Download the Mi Unlock Tool from the official Xiaomi website and install it on your computer. 3. **Boot Your Phone into Fastboot Mode**: Turn off your device, and then press and hold the Volume Down + Power buttons simultaneously until you enter Fastboot mode. 4. **Run Mi Unlock Tool**: Launch the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer. Log in with your Mi account credentials. 5. **Unlocking Process**: Follow the on-screen instructions to unlock your device. The tool will notify you once the bootloader has been successfully unlocked.
Post-Unlocking Steps
After unlocking the bootloader, there are some important steps you should follow: 1. **Reboot Your Device**: Your device will automatically reboot after unlocking, but if it doesn't, you can do so manually. 2. **Restore Your Data**: If you backed up your data earlier, you can now restore it. 3. **Install Custom Recovery (Optional)**: If you plan to install custom ROMs or root your device, consider installing a custom recovery such as TWRP. 4. **Reloading the System**: If you faced any boot loop or issues after unlocking, you may need to reflash the stock firmware or custom ROM.