Emir Bardakçı
Unlocking the bootloader of a Xiaomi device gives users maximum freedom in terms of full control over the device at an advanced level: installing custom ROMs and root access. However, this cannot be done without risks and consequences. Most users may not be aware of the harm that the process of unlocking the bootloader of a Xiaomi device can cause. Among the problems are the cessation of Over-The-Air updates, as well as many others.
Loss of OTA updates
And one of the first changes — something that every user immediately notices — is the lack of automatic OTA updates. Xiaomi, like many other manufacturers, requires the bootloader to be locked in order to receive and apply OTA updates straight out of the box from the company. This is introduced as a security measure: the updates themselves are not hardened and are applied to devices that are in a known good condition.
By unlocking the bootloader, you change the fundamental security status of the device. Xiaomi’s system itself assumes this, and the service stops distributing OTAs as a result, because a potentially compromised device can become a serious security problem for the software.
Consequences of losing OTA updates
- Security vulnerabilities: OTA system updates often include major security patches and critical fixes. Without them, your device becomes more vulnerable to the latest exploits and malware.
- Missed opportunities : OTA updates can come with updated or new features and better devices. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on improvements that could improve your user experience.
- Need for manual updates : The requirement to manually download and then update your device — one way to stay up to date — has become a bit cumbersome. It’s more difficult and time-consuming to do so than updating them automatically.
Warranty and support questions
As a rule, it is the unlocking of the bootloader that leads to the cancellation of the warranty that manufacturers impose on the device. Xiaomi, like other manufacturers, considers unlocking the bootloader as a kind of violation that can lead to instability or security issues. This allows you to maintain the risk of hardware or software problems after applying the unlock. Xiaomi may refuse to service your device under warranty.
Security risks
Unlocking the bootloader may compromise the security of your device and may result in the following consequences:
- Direct exposure to malware: With an unlocked bootloader, the chances of your device being infected by malware increase, especially if you install programs from untrusted sources.
- Data Integrity: Data stored on the device can be manipulated. Malicious entities can tamper with the operating system or install keyloggers and other mechanisms to track actions.
- Protecting your device from compromise: Features like factory reset protection and encryption are less secure on devices with an unlocked bootloader. This means that data can be more easily compromised if and when the device is lost or stolen.
Performance and stability issues
Custom ROMs and mods can bring new features and improvements, but they can also introduce new bugs and instability.
- Unstable software: Not all custom ROMs are stable; sometimes you may encounter bugs that can lead to crashes, battery drain, and even brick your device in some cases.
- Compatibility issues : Some apps and features may not work properly on a modified device. Things affected range from payment apps that need security checks to basic things like calling and messaging.
While unlocking the bootloader on your Xiaomi device gives you more control and customization, there are some significant downsides. The most minor upside is that you lose the ability to receive OTA updates, at least until you relock the bootloader. But for most people, the benefits of all of the above are well worth the risks of warranty issues, security, and performance stability issues. Yes, you need to weigh whether the benefits of all of the above are worth the risk of warranty issues, potential increased security risks, and potential performance instability. Always consider whether the benefits of unlocking outweigh these significant issues.
