Newsletter
Xiaomi just introduced strict restrictions to unlocking the bootloader on its HyperOS-running phones, citing security and data protection. While MIUI devices offer some amount of flexibility in this context, HyperOS users are going to face more extensive limitations if they want to unlock the bootloader.
Xiaomi recently unveiled its Xiaomi 14 series in its home market, China, with a ‘new’ operating system named HyperOS. Xiaomi’s expectation behind this move is likely to gain a good reputation regarding the software experience they provide. This seems especially likely when you consider the minimal actual changes except a new name for the skin.
Xiaomi’s new approach to bootloader unlocking raises concerns among enthusiasts
Xiaomi was imposing significant restrictions on bootloader unlocking for its HyperOS-running phones. The company has now officially confirmed (via Android Authority) that bootloader unlocking will be disabled by default on HyperOS smartphones, citing enhanced device security, data protection, and overall user experience as the primary reasons for this change.
“To protect the device’s security, avoid data leakage, and provide users with a more secure and stable user experience, bootloader unlocking will be disabled by default on Xiaomi HyperOS,” replies Xiaomi addressing Android Authority‘s questions.
Users seeking to unlock their HyperOS-running Xiaomi device will need to ask Xiaomi for permission via the company’s community forum. And there are some additional restrictions for the unlocking process too, in China.
Xiaomi makes unlocking the bootloader a time-sensitive process, while users need to stay locked in to receive updates
As Kacoer Skarzypek tweeted, Xiaomi HyperOS users will need to reach “level five” on the company’s forums before they can proceed with bootloader unlocking. Moreover, Xiaomi has added time-sensitive restrictions, and users are limited to unlocking a maximum of three devices per year. It’s essential to note that these heightened restrictions currently apply only to the Chinese version of HyperOS.
The company also addressed MIUI users eligible to get HyperOS updates. The users would no longer receive Xiaomi HyperOS updates if they leave their devices in an unlocked state. Xiaomi clarified that HyperOS updates could be received if the user chooses to lock their device again. These policies apply to all Xiaomi devices outside of China.
Bootloader unlocking is an essential step for tech enthusiasts and developers to explore custom ROMs, unofficial updates, and more. Unlocking the bootloader surely enables certain opportunities. However, it may also limit certain functionalities, such as the operation of payment services due to security concerns.
It remains to be seen how this policy shift will impact Xiaomi’s global community of Android enthusiasts and developers.