Xiaomi is further restricting how users can unlock the bootloader on their devices. This move will surely frustrate developers and tinkerers.
Previously, users needed a Mi Account over 30 days and could only unlock 3 devices annually. Now, bootloader unlock requests will only be accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10AM to 4PM each week. During this window, Xiaomi staff will manually review each request for reasonableness before approving any unlocks.
If the bootloader is unlocked, OTA updates from Xiaomi will no longer be possible. Users can relock the bootloader to regain this functionality, but tinkering will no longer be as flexible.
It’s clear Xiaomi wants to exert more control over the user experience rather than make unlocking fully automated. While their reasons are understandable as a company, this will displease power users seeking customization.
Developers may find building custom ROMs more difficult as well. Overall, this is an inconvenient step back for the modding community, even if the core unlock process stays the same. Only time will tell how users respond to these tighter restrictions on tinkering.
“Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10AM to 4PM each week” of what Time zone?