Unlock Bootloader for Mi Devices

We're all familiar with the spectacular low-budget Xiaomi devices. And although the older ones come with unlocked bootloaders, Xiaomi recently decided to lock the bootloaders starting from devices like Mi5 and Redmi Note 3. And ever since, unlocking bootloaders for Mi devices has been quite a task if you're not fully aware of all the drivers and the method. But that's for later. The first step is to get your device approved for unlocking your bootloader. The approval process can be as quick as the 2nd day or as lengthy as the 15th day. So you will have to wait for about 2-15 days to get your device approved of which you will be notified via SMS. After you have received your confirmation, follow the guide below to unlock your device's bootloader.

What is bootloader?

Bootloader is a piece of code that runs before any operating system is running. Bootloader is used to boot other operating systems, usually each operating system has a set of bootloaders specific for it.

Why unlock bootloader?

1. Let's say you're using a Xiaomi device that is not from your region (Chinese) and you wanna change that. You want a device that you can fully understand and appreciate. So to do that, you'll have to flash a Global Rom to your device. But to flash a Global Rom, you'll need an unlocked bootloader.

2. If you're seeking root access, an unlocked bootloader is a necessity.

So there we have some major reasons to get your device unlocked now. Let's begin with the process of applying.

Warning: I'm not responsible for any kind of damage to your device. Do it at your own risk.

This can be done by following the steps below:

1. Go to the official Mi Unlock Request Page using this LINK.

2. Now click on the Unlock Now button and complete the sign up using your e-mail and mobile number.

3. When you're done signing up, you'll receive a confirmation message on your registered mobile number.

4. You're done for the first part. Now, all you need to do is wait for the approval. You'll receive a SMS stating 'You've been granted the permission to unlock your device (Mi Account) along with a link to downloading Mi Unlock Tool. Download the tool using that link.

5. Download and install the following drivers and tools: ADB Tool and Minimal ADB and Fastboot Drivers.

6. Now go to About of your phone. Now tap on MIUI Version 7 times and you'll see a pop-up that says you're now a developer. Go to Settings> Additional Settings> Developer Options and enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlock.

7. After you've installed all the drivers from Step 5, open the Mi Unlock Tool and sign in to your exact account you used to get the unlock permission. 

8. After you sign in, put your device to bootloader mode. This can be done by switching your device off and then holding the Volume Down key and the Power Button simultaneously for a few seconds until you see the Mi logo followed by a Rabbit fixing an Android.

NOTE: Unlocking your device will erase all your data so make sure you backup your device before unlocking.

9. Now connect your device using a USB Cable to the PC in bootloader mode. In the Unlock tool, you will see that the phone is connected(if drivers are installed properly). Now click on Unlock button and wait for a while. After the process is complete, the phone will reboot. The first boot might take longer than usual, so be patient. 

10. That's it. Now you have an unlocked Xiaomi device which you can easily root or flash a new rom in.