The bootloader of Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones can be unlocked without this procedure invalidating the warranty. This policy has allowed users for a long time to do modding on Chinese brand devices and have fun modifying or replacing the original software. A recent Tweet (soon after removed) by Redmi India, however, took many by surprise by stating that if the bootloader was unlocked, the warranty coverage would be lost.
To clarify the situation, the XDA-Developers team decided to contact Xiaomi India for clarification on the matter. The answer was not long in coming. The simple unlocking of the bootloader does not cancel the warranty of the Xiaomi and Redmi smartphone but if this procedure causes problems caused by a Custom ROM, the device will not be covered by warranty.
Hi, we would like to inform you that by just unlocking the bootloader your device warranty will not be void. However, if the device crashes / bricks due to Custom ROM the device will be serviced out of Warranty. We would strongly recommend you to continue use your device with MIUI.
— Mi India Support (@MiIndiaSupport) April 20, 2020
“Unlocking the bootloader is made available to ensure that MIUI developer ROMs can be tested by users and are covered by warranty. Unlocking the bootloader does not automatically void the hardware warranty. But if the unlock results in a brick that cannot be fixed via software, the warranty will be void". This is the official statement of Xiaomi India which was promptly shared also on Twitter.
However, the source specifies that this policy is applicable from Xiaomi India and Redmi India and that conditions may vary depending on the reference market. It is therefore good to inquire before carrying out a similar practice if you want to keep the guarantee valid. We will try to get official information from Xiaomi. We will update the article as soon as we are aware of all the details.
Anyway, remember that it is unlocking the bootloader is not a suitable process for all types of users but which is suitable for those who have some more skills.
Redmi Note 9S is available for purchase on Amazon at 229 euros. .
