Emir BardakçıXiaomi has legally updated its 2025 bootloader unlocking policy, with stricter terms having a profound impact on device owners who seek to have them unlocked. The new terms, applicable starting January 1, 2025, introduce new requirements for unlocking, in a general direction towards heightened security protocols in the industry.
Key Updates in Xiaomi 2025 Bootloader Unlock Policy
The updated requirements for unlocking present two important restrictions:
- Single Device Rule: Users must go through all of these processes—responding to queries, registering, applying, binding, unlocking, and using an unlocked device—in a single device. Users can no longer switch between devices in between, and all actions will then become tied to a single Xiaomi smartphone.
- Time Limit for Unlocking: After having received unlocking qualification, users will have to complete unlocking and binding in 336 hours (14 days). Users will have to reapply for unlocking permission in case of failure to comply with such a timeline.
These changes will restrict unlocking even further and will make device modifications less accessible to unauthorized individuals and will make it even safer.
First Unlocker Bootloader Set for February 18, 2025
Xiaomi’s bootloader unlocking app page has been updated, and the first unlocking quiz will begin at 10:00 AM February 18, 2025. The quiz will most likely assess users’ acquaintance with Xiaomi’s policies and with unlocking its danger, in an attempt to make them aware of the consequences in advance.
Further Lockdowns of Bootloader Unlocking
This update follows a significant policy change that only allows unlocking one bound device for an account for its duration of use. Previously, three devices could be unlocked for an account, but that is lowered to one device in its current state.
The decision comes in a larger industry direction in which big smartphone companies are tightening down its bootloader unlocking terms in an era of security concerns. With custom ROM use in a downturn and companies prioritizing protecting information, even Xiaomi, with its relatively relaxed stance in the past, is following in similar direction with stricter terms for its counterparts.
Why is Xiaomi tightening its bootlocker unlocking requirements?
Several factors have contributed towards this policy switch:
- Security Issue: Unlocking a device’s bootloader can expose it to security vulnerabilities, including malware, root access, and loss of data.
- Decline in Flashing Market: Fewer and fewer people are flashing custom ROMs, and less demand for an opening unlocking system, therefore,
- Preventing Illegal Re-sales: Securing bootloaders can inhibit illegal operations, such as illegal phone refurbishment and resale with changed software.
How will it affect Users of Xiaomi?
For enthusiasts who bootload and custom-ROM install regularly, and even tinker with, a device, such new restrictions will make such processes cumbersome for them. With a single device per period, one will have to make a wise choice of a device to bootload, and then have to work under a 14-day restriction, too.
However, for most general Xiaomi users who don’t partake in flashing and custom ROM installation, these will have little impact. Instead, they will serve to fortify security and make for a safer software environment.
Final Thoughts
With the tightening of its bootloader unlocking policies, Xiaomi is moving in a developing industry direction towards security over customizability. As infuriating a move such a development will be for enthusiasts and programmers, it is in harmony with broader concerns over device integrity and software security.
For those unboxing and unloocking a new device in 2025, knowing about these new requirements, adhering to all of them in one device, and getting them completed in 14 days is important. Stay tuned for future updates when Xiaomi launches its first quiz on February 18, 2025
