Are you the proud owner of a Xiaomi smartphone? Are you looking to unleash its full potential and have complete control over your device? Look no further, because in this article, we will guide you through the process of rooting your Xiaomi phone.
Rooting your Xiaomi phone can bring a multitude of benefits. It allows you to access the deepest layers of your phone’s operating system, giving you the freedom to customize, optimize, and enhance your device’s performance. Whether you want to remove bloatware, install custom ROMs, or tweak system settings, rooting your Xiaomi phone is the first step towards unlocking its true power.
But before we delve into the process, let’s understand what rooting is all about and why it’s important for Android enthusiasts.
Inside This Article
Preparations
Before you proceed with rooting your Xiaomi phone, it is essential to make some preparations to ensure a smooth and successful process. Here are a few important steps you should follow:
1. Backup Your Data: Rooting your device can sometimes lead to data loss or errors, so it is always advisable to back up your important files, contacts, and applications. You can use Xiaomi’s built-in backup feature or third-party apps like Google Drive or Dropbox.
2. Charge Your Phone: Ensure that your Xiaomi device is adequately charged before you begin the rooting process. It is recommended to have your phone battery level at around 50% or higher to prevent it from powering off during the procedure.
3. Enable USB Debugging: To connect your Xiaomi phone to a computer for rooting, you need to enable USB debugging mode. Go to the Settings menu, locate Developer Options, and toggle on the USB Debugging option. If the Developer Options are not visible, go to About Phone, tap on MIUI Version multiple times until you see a “You are now a developer” message, and then go back and access Developer Options.
4. Unlock Bootloader: In order to root your Xiaomi phone, you need to unlock the bootloader. This process will wipe all data on your device, so make sure you have already backed up your important files. Visit Xiaomi’s official website and follow the instructions to unlock the bootloader specific to your device model. Note that the unlocking process may vary depending on your phone model and region.
5. Download Required Files: Before proceeding with rooting, download the necessary files and tools. You will need the specific root package for your Xiaomi phone model, and the ADB and Fastboot tools for Windows or Mac. Ensure that you download trustworthy and reliable sources to avoid any potential issues.
By following these preparations, you will be well-prepared to root your Xiaomi phone successfully. Remember to backup your data, charge your phone, enable USB debugging, unlock the bootloader, and download the required files. Once you have completed these steps, you can move on to the next stage of the rooting process: unlocking the bootloader.
Unlocking Bootloader
The bootloader is an essential part of any smartphone’s software. It is the first program that runs when you power on your device and is responsible for loading the different parts of the operating system. By default, the bootloader of Xiaomi devices is locked, which means that you are restricted from making certain modifications to the device’s software.
Unlocking the bootloader on your Xiaomi device allows you to gain full control over the system, giving you the ability to install custom ROMs, root your device, and even make advanced modifications. However, it is important to note that unlocking the bootloader will void the warranty of your device and can also pose certain risks if not done correctly. Therefore, it is crucial to proceed with caution and follow the instructions carefully.
Here are the step-by-step instructions to unlock the bootloader of your Xiaomi device:
- Backup your data: Unlocking the bootloader will erase all the data on your device. Therefore, it is crucial to backup your important files, contacts, and any other data that you don’t want to lose.
- Enable developer options: Go to the device’s Settings, scroll down to About Phone, and tap on the MIUI version multiple times (usually 7 times) until it displays “You are now a developer!”
- Enable USB debugging: In the Settings menu, go to Additional Settings, then Developer options. Toggle on the USB debugging option.
- Request an unlock: Visit the official Xiaomi bootloader unlock page (insert URL) and click on “Unlock Now.” Follow the instructions to log in with your Mi Account, provide the necessary details, and submit the unlock request.
- Wait for the approval: Xiaomi may take a few days to approve your bootloader unlock request. Check your email regularly for updates on the status of your request.
- Download Mi Unlock Tool: Once your unlock request is approved, download the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer.
- Enable Fastboot mode: Power off your Xiaomi device, then press and hold the Volume Down button and the Power button simultaneously until the Fastboot logo appears on the screen.
- Connect your device to the computer: Use a USB cable to connect your Xiaomi device to your computer.
- Open Mi Unlock Tool: Launch the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer and sign in with the same Mi Account used to request the unlock.
- Unlock the bootloader: Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the Mi Unlock Tool to unlock the bootloader of your Xiaomi device.
- Reboot your device: Once the bootloader is successfully unlocked, reboot your device and you will have the freedom to customize and modify the software as you desire.
It is important to note that unlocking the bootloader will reset your Xiaomi device to factory settings, erasing all data. Therefore, it is crucial to backup your data beforehand and proceed with caution.
Keep in mind that unlocking the bootloader may void your device’s warranty, and it also comes with certain risks. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and do thorough research before proceeding.
Installing Custom Recovery
Installing a custom recovery is a crucial step in the process of rooting your Xiaomi device. A custom recovery allows you to perform advanced tasks, such as installing custom ROMs, creating system backups, and even overclocking your device. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install a custom recovery on your Xiaomi phone.
1. Check Device Compatibility: Before proceeding with the installation, make sure that the custom recovery you intend to use is compatible with your specific Xiaomi device model. Different models may require different custom recoveries, so double-check the compatibility to avoid any issues during the installation process.
2. Enable Developer Options: To install a custom recovery, you need to enable the Developer Options on your Xiaomi device. To do this, go to the “Settings” menu, scroll down to “About phone,” and tap on it. Then, locate the “MIUI version” and tap on it seven times. This will enable the Developer Options on your device.
3. Enable USB Debugging: Once you have enabled Developer Options, go back to the main “Settings” menu and select “Additional settings.” Scroll down and tap on “Developer options.” Inside this menu, find the “USB Debugging” option and toggle it on.
4. Unlock the Bootloader: Before installing a custom recovery, you need to unlock the bootloader of your Xiaomi device. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to make changes to the system files and install custom recoveries and ROMs. The process of unlocking the bootloader may vary depending on your device model, so make sure to follow the specific instructions provided by Xiaomi.
5. Download the Custom Recovery: Once you have successfully unlocked the bootloader, you need to download the custom recovery file for your Xiaomi device. Popular custom recoveries for Xiaomi devices include TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) and ClockworkMod Recovery. Visit the official websites or reputable forums to locate and download the correct custom recovery for your device model.
6. Transfer the Custom Recovery to your Device: After downloading the custom recovery file, connect your Xiaomi device to your computer using a USB cable. Copy the custom recovery file to the internal storage or SD card of your device. Ensure that the file is placed in a location where it can be easily accessed later during the installation process.
7. Boot into Recovery Mode: To begin the custom recovery installation, you need to boot your Xiaomi device into recovery mode. The process of entering recovery mode may vary depending on the specific Xiaomi model. Generally, it involves turning off the device, then pressing and holding a combination of buttons (such as the power button and volume down button) until the device enters recovery mode.
8. Install the Custom Recovery: Once you are in recovery mode, use the volume buttons to navigate through the options and the power button to select them. Look for an option that says “Install” or “Install from SD card.” Navigate to the location where you transferred the custom recovery file and select it. Confirm the installation when prompted.
9. Reboot your Device: After the installation is complete, go back to the main recovery menu and select the “Reboot system now” option. This will reboot your Xiaomi device, and now you have successfully installed a custom recovery.
With a custom recovery installed, you can now explore a whole new world of possibilities for customizing your Xiaomi device. Remember to proceed with caution and make backups of your device before making any major changes. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with a rooted Xiaomi device!
Conclusion
Rooting your Xiaomi phone can offer a world of possibilities, unlocking features and customization options that were previously unavailable. It allows you to take full control of your device, giving you the freedom to install custom ROMs, remove bloatware, and optimize performance.
However, it’s important to note that rooting your Xiaomi phone comes with risks. It can void your warranty and potentially expose your device to security vulnerabilities if not done correctly. You should also be aware of the potential consequences, such as bricking your phone or losing data.
If you are an advanced user who understands the risks and understands the benefits, rooting your Xiaomi phone can be a worthwhile endeavor. Just make sure to follow the proper instructions and take necessary precautions to minimize the risks involved.
In conclusion, while rooting your Xiaomi phone can offer exciting possibilities, it is a decision that should be made after careful consideration. Evaluate your needs and risks before proceeding, and always remember to back up your data to avoid any potential loss. With the right knowledge and caution, the process can be done safely, enabling you to unleash the full potential of your Xiaomi device.
FAQs
1. What is rooting in the context of a Xiaomi phone?
Rooting a Xiaomi phone refers to the process of gaining administrative access to the device’s operating system. It allows users to have complete control over the system files and settings, enabling them to customize their device, install custom ROMs, and use certain apps that require root access.
2. Why would I want to root my Xiaomi phone?
Rooting your Xiaomi phone unlocks a wide range of possibilities. It allows you to personalize your device by installing custom software, removing unwanted pre-installed apps (bloatware), and tweaking system settings. Root access also grants you the ability to use powerful apps that require root privileges, such as Titanium Backup, Greenify, and Xposed Framework.
3. How can I root my Xiaomi phone?
Rooting methods for Xiaomi phones vary, depending on the device model and the version of the Android operating system it is running on. There are often multiple methods available, including using specialized rooting tools like KingRoot or utilizing custom recovery software like TWRP. It is important to research the appropriate rooting method for your specific Xiaomi phone model and follow instructions carefully to avoid any issues or potential damage to your device.
4. What are the risks of rooting my Xiaomi phone?
Rooting your Xiaomi phone can void its warranty, as it involves altering the device’s software beyond the manufacturer’s intended specifications. Additionally, there is a possibility of bricking your phone, rendering it unusable, if the rooting process is not done correctly. It is crucial to understand the risks involved and proceed with caution, following reliable guides and using trusted rooting methods to minimize these risks.
5. Can I unroot my Xiaomi phone?
Yes, it is possible to unroot a rooted Xiaomi phone. By using unrooting tools or flashing the official stock ROM, you can reverse the root access and restore your device to its original state. However, keep in mind that unrooting may not always reinstate the warranty on your phone, so it’s vital to be aware of the potential consequences before deciding to root your device.
