When the required hours have passed:
Your phone will automatically reboot. The first boot takes 5–10 minutes – do not interrupt.
Two possible screens appear:
If it asks to wait, note the remaining time. Close the tool, do not retry before the timer ends – resetting the clock is a common mistake.
Join the XDA Developers Forum for Xiaomi Mi 8 SE. The community there is very helpful.
Happy modding! 🐰🔓
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. The author and website are not responsible for bricked devices, lost data, or voided warranties. Follow at your own risk. How to unlock Bootloader in XIAOMI Mi 8 SE with...
Unlocking the bootloader on your Xiaomi Mi 8 SE is a multi-day process that requires the official Mi Unlock Tool and a bound Mi Account. This action will factory reset your device, erasing all personal data, so ensure you have a full backup before proceeding. 1. Preparation Requirements
Mi Account: Ensure you have a Mi Account that has been active for more than 30 days.
Computer: A Windows PC with Xiaomi USB Drivers and the Mi Unlock Tool installed.
Connectivity: Use the original USB cable and ensure your phone is connected to the internet via mobile data (not Wi-Fi) during the binding process. 2. Device Binding Steps
Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About phone and tap MIUI version seven times until "You are now a developer!" appears.
Enable OEM Unlocking: Go to Settings > Additional settings > Developer options and toggle on OEM unlocking and USB debugging. When the required hours have passed:
Bind Account: In the same Developer options menu, tap Mi Unlock status and select Add account and device. Wait for the "Added successfully" confirmation.
Note: Do not log out of your Mi Account or factory reset your phone after this step, as it will reset your waiting timer. 3. The Unlocking Process Enter Fastboot Mode: Turn off your
. Press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously until the Fastboot logo (the Mi bunny) appears.
Connect to PC: Open the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer and sign in with the same Mi Account used on the phone.
Check Waiting Time: Connect your phone to the PC. Click Unlock; if this is your first attempt, the tool will likely display a message to "Please unlock 168 hours later" (7 days).
Final Unlock: After the required hours have passed, put your phone back into Fastboot Mode, connect it to the PC, and run the Mi Unlock Tool again to complete the process. Your phone will automatically reboot
These video guides provide visual walk-throughs for the binding and unlocking process: Xiaomi Mi 8SE bootloader unlock and TWRP & Rom Install 45K views · 7 years ago YouTube · Ricks Tech Repairs
To unlock the bootloader on your Xiaomi Mi 8 SE, you must use the official Mi Unlock Tool provided by Xiaomi. This process is essential if you plan to install custom ROMs or gain root access, but it will factory reset your device, erasing all data. Prerequisites
Mi Account: You must have an active Mi account signed in on the phone. For some newer security checks, the account may need to be at least 30 days old.
SIM Card & Mobile Data: Binding the device to your account requires a working SIM card and the use of mobile data (Wi-Fi must be turned off during the binding step).
PC & Drivers: You need a Windows computer with Xiaomi USB Drivers installed. Step-by-Step Instructions
Unlocking the bootloader on the Xiaomi Mi 8 SE allows you to install custom recoveries (like TWRP), flash custom ROMs, or root your device. However, Xiaomi requires a specific waiting period and official tools to do this safely.
Here is the step-by-step guide.
⚠️ The Waiting Period:
Xiaomi forces a waiting period (usually 168 hours = 7 days, sometimes 360 hours) from the moment you bind your account. You must keep the SIM card in the phone, stay logged into the same Mi account, and do not factory reset during this time. The Mi 8 SE may require a shorter period, but be prepared for up to 7 days.