Xiaomi phones will not receive HyperOS updates if the bootloader is unlocked

BRecently, Xiaomi launched their latest series of phones, the Xiaomi 14. One of the special features of this new product is the acceptance of the new Hyperos UX Shell update, replacing the previous MIUI. However, along with this launch, information appears on the internet that Xiaomi has prohibited users from unlocking the bootloader on HyperOS and MIUI devices. This ban has been revoked for mobile phones with MIUI, due to the temporary deactivation of this unlocking caused by technical work on the server, while HyperOS users are unable to unlock the bootloader to date.

Why can’t the bootloader be opened by default?

Xiaomi has confirmed to representatives on the Android Authority portal that the bootloader lock unlock is indeed disabled by default on smartphones running HyperOS. The company confirmed this move with the desire to improve system stability and security: “To protect device security and prevent data leakage, bootloader unlock by default is disabled on HyperOS devices. We want to provide a more secure and stable user experience to our customers.”

However, according to Xiaomi, the unlock option will be available to users after submitting a request on a community forum. “Please follow the announcement of the application portal on the Xiaomi community page,” explained the company.

Restrictions in China: HyperOS and Bootloader

In China, the situation of the HyperOS bootloader unlock is getting more complicated. Hyperos still maintains some of the limitations required by local law, while Xiaomi itself has published additional new requirements for the bootloader unlocking process in China. According to the MIUI Polska correspondent, Kacper Skrzypek, the owner of the smartphone with HyperOS in China must reach the mysterious “Level Five” on the company’s forum to unlock the Bootloader Hyperos. From the screenshot given by the author, it can be concluded that the permission to unlock the bootloader somehow depends on time. There is also a limitation of three devices that can be unlocked per year.

However, Xiaomi claims that this restriction only applies to the HyperOS version in China. Meanwhile, users in other parts of the world are expected to wait for updates in the company forum for more details.

comparison with other brands

This bootloader unlock restriction approach is different from some other smartphone brands. For example, Google Pixel and OnePlus smart phones allow you to unlock the bootloader by going into the options menu that is usually hidden and running some service commands.

However, Xiaomi left the device owner with MIUI who wanted to unlock their phone disappointed: they wouldn’t receive an update to Hyperos. “Old operating systems like MIUI 14 still retain the ability to open. However, users will no longer receive Xiaomi Hyperos updates if they leave their devices open,” the company said.

However, if users have unlocked their smartphone’s bootloader, the HyperOS update will not be available to them, regardless of which shell they use: HyperOS or MIUI 14. However, the owner of the smartphone can “update” again if they decide to lock the bootloader of their device. This applies to all smart phones, even outside of China.

Please note that unlocking the bootloader has security implications and will make some applications, such as banking applications and payment services, not working. However, this is an important step for those who want to experiment with their smart phones, open the door for custom ROMs, unofficial updates, system mods, and more.

FAQ related to HyperOS update

1. Why does Xiaomi limit the bootloader lock unlock on HyperOS?

Xiaomi disables bootloader lock unlock to improve system security and stability, as well as prevent user data leakage.

2. Does the bootloader unlock affect the user experience?

Yes, unlocking the bootloader can affect some applications, such as banking and payment services, which may not work properly.

3. How do I request permission to unlock the bootloader on a HyperOS device?

Users can apply in the Xiaomi Community Forum to get permission to unlock the bootloader on HyperOS devices.

4. Does the bootloader unlock limit the system update?

Yes, if the bootloader is unlocked, the HyperOS update will not be available. The user must re-lock the bootloader to receive the update.

5. Does this restriction apply to all Xiaomi devices around the world?
This restriction applies depending on the version of HyperOS and MIUI used. Outside China, further updates will be announced in the company’s forum to provide detailed information to users.