How To Unlock Bootloader In Xiaomi Mi 8 Se With... Best May 2026

How to Unlock Bootloader in XIAOMI Mi 8 SE: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

The XIAOMI Mi 8 SE was a groundbreaking device when it launched in 2018, being the first smartphone to feature the Snapdragon 710 AIE chipset. For enthusiasts, developers, and tinkerers, the real potential of this device is only unlocked when the bootloader is opened. Unlocking the bootloader is the gateway to installing custom ROMs (like Pixel Experience, LineageOS), gaining root access via Magisk, or flashing custom kernels.

However, Xiaomi is notorious for making this process slightly more cumbersome than other manufacturers. They require permissions, waiting periods, and proprietary tools. How to unlock Bootloader in XIAOMI Mi 8 SE with...

This guide will walk you through every single step to unlock the bootloader of your XIAOMI Mi 8 SE (Codename: sirius) safely and effectively. How to Unlock Bootloader in XIAOMI Mi 8

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Phase 1: Device Preparation (The "Binding" Process)

This is the most critical step to ensure the unlock tool recognizes your device. Phase 1: Device Preparation (The "Binding" Process) This

1. Insert SIM Card: Ensure an active SIM card is inserted into the Mi 8 SE. The device requires cellular data connectivity to communicate with Xiaomi servers.
2. Sign In: Go to Settings > Mi Account and sign in with your Xiaomi account.
3. Enable Developer Options:
   • Go to Settings > About Phone.
   • Tap MIUI Version repeatedly until you see the message "You are now a developer!"
4. Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging:
   • Go to Settings > Additional Settings > Developer Options.
   • Toggle on OEM Unlocking.
   • Toggle on USB Debugging.
5. Bind the Account to the Device:
   • Inside Developer Options, look for the setting labeled Mi Unlock Status.
   • Tap on it. It will ask to sign in to your Mi Account again.
   • Tap the "Add account and device" button.
   • Success Indicator: You will see a message stating, "Added successfully. You can unlock your device now."
   • Note: If you receive an error (e.g., "Connect to network and try again"), ensure you are using Mobile Data (not just Wi-Fi) and try again.

Part 2: The Three-Step Prerequisite Phase

Before you even connect your phone to the PC, you must complete these essential steps on the device itself.

Step 5: The Waiting Period (The "360 Hours" Rule)

This is the most frustrating part for Xiaomi users.

• Immediate Unlock: If your account is old and trusted, the tool might unlock it immediately.
• Waiting Period: For most users, especially on newer firmware, the tool will say: "Couldn't unlock. Wait X hours" (commonly 360 hours, 720 hours, or sometimes 30 days).

What to do if you get the waiting message:

1. Note the exact time the tool tells you to wait.
2. Do not try to spam the unlock button; this can reset the timer.
3. Wait the required time (keep the phone as your daily driver, stay signed in).
4. After the time is up, repeat Step 3 and Step 4. It will then unlock successfully.

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Step 5: Run the Mi Unlock Tool

1. On your PC, run miflash_unlock.exe as Administrator (right-click → Run as administrator).
2. Log in with the same Xiaomi account you bound to your phone.
3. The tool should detect your Mi 8 SE. If not, reinstall USB drivers (use the MiUsbDriver.exe from the tool’s folder).
4. Click Unlock.
5. If you see a waiting period error (e.g., "168 hours"), close the tool and wait. Do not try to bypass it – it will fail.
6. Once the waiting period is over, repeat Steps 4-5. Click Unlock again.

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