This year, Xiaomi has significantly tightened the rules for bootloader (BL) unlocking, requiring users to answer questions and pass a qualification review, including "no violations in Xiaomi Community in the past 180 days," among other stringent measures.

Despite these rigorous measures, akin to college entrance exams, passionate users remain undeterred. Recently, a brilliant mind devised a "novel approach" to unlock BL.

The method involves posing as a customer seeking a downgrade service at an after-sales center. Once the staff completes the unlock process, the user seizes the moment, grabs the phone, and swiftly departs.

This incident, captured on surveillance video, sparked widespread debate. Some netizens deemed it unethical, fearing that after-sales employees might face penalties or lose privileges. Others even went as far as creating a simulator game, titled "Xiaomi Backup Run Network," satirizing this "after-sales escape" technique.

So, what exactly is the BL lock? Its full name is Bootloader lock, designed to safeguard system integrity and data security. Enthusiasts often unlock it to customize their devices, such as hiding status bar icons, installing custom modules, or flashing other manufacturers' systems.

According to blogger @IDashiDaBin, Xiaomi's strict BL lock control stems from past abuses. After introducing a policy where warranty covers "one-time Wi-Fi burnout, and return after two times," many individuals deliberately unlocked their BL, removed temperature control walls, and intentionally burned out their Wi-Fi to fraudulently claim insurance, forming a black market industry.

Furthermore, some detractors unlocked the BL to create bugs and crash screens, maliciously tarnishing Xiaomi's reputation.

Image source: Weibo @IDashiDaBin

It's worth noting that Samsung seems to be following Xiaomi's footsteps in restricting enthusiasts. According to Sammyguru, Samsung's latest One UI 8 has removed the BL unlock feature.

If true, it appears that only OnePlus, Motorola, and Google remain as havens for heartbroken flashers seeking customization freedom.