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Xiaomi will reportedly end its global bootloader unlock program

Bootloader of the Chinese smartphones is already restricted (Image source: Xiaomi)
Bootloader of the Chinese smartphones is already restricted (Image source: Xiaomi)
The global variants of Xiaomi smartphones will reportedly no longer allow bootloader unlocking, as the company is said to be planning to shut down the program. It's worth noting that Xiaomi has already closed the program in China.

All the recently launched Xiaomi devices come with HyperOS, a more refined version of MIUI. However, unlocking the bootloader does make sense in some instances. For example, with an unlocked bootloader, you can install a custom ROM like the Pixel Experience and get a near-stock Android experience.

However, as @chunvn8888 shared on X, Xiaomi will reportedly shut down the bootloader unlock program for global devices. If this holds true, there will not be an official way to unlock the bootloader of international smartphones. Of course, there could be alternative ways, but they are likely to be more complicated than the official method.

The tipster didn't share why Xiaomi may decide to shut down the bootloader unlock program for global models. However, it's worth mentioning that the bootloader of a Chinese model can't be unlocked anymore. The company has recently made this change to its software policy in China.

But again, as HyperOS offers a more refined experience than MIUI, not many users feel the need to unlock the bootloader. However, many developers require root access to smartphones, and with restrictions such as this, it can become quite challenging for them to play around with the advanced settings of Xiaomi smartphones.

@chunvn8888 says this restriction on global Xiaomi phones could take effect next year. It's possible that the HyperOS 2.0 update may bring this change. However, this information is still in the rumor phase, and nothing is confirmed until the company makes an official announcement.

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Source(s)

@chunvn8888 on X (tweet embedded above)

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2024 10 > Xiaomi will reportedly end its global bootloader unlock program
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 2024-10- 6 (Update: 2024-10- 7)