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Xiaomi POCOphone F1 bootloader unlock now available within 72 hours

Xiaomi has updated its bootloader unlock policy for the POCOphone F1 allowing users to unlock the device within three days of the initial request.
By
September 5, 2018
The Xiaomi POCOphone F1.
TL;DR
  • The Xiaomi POCOphone F1 bootloader will be available for unlocking within three days of the request being made.
  • Pocophone F1 owners can apply for the unlock through Xiaomi’s dedicated Mi Unlock service.
  • Other Xiaomi handset owners must wait at least 15 days for the request to be approved.

Xiaomi has confirmed it will allow Pocophone F1 owners to unlock the device bootloader three days after filing a request. Jai Mani, Head of Product for the POCOphone, made the announcement in a tweet yesterday (via XDA).

Xiaomi recently faced a backlash for enforcing a 15-day wait time on users seeking to unlock the bootloader with its Mi Unlock Tool; according to reports, approval could sometimes take as long as two months to arrive following the initial request. This setup was intended as a deterrent for resellers seeking to quickly re-skin devices and sell them on, but it also stands in the way of general users.

Mani said Xiaomi had “listened to feedback” regarding bootloader unlocking and has now updated its policy.

We listened to your feedback on the bootloader unlock issue and have updated the policy for the @PocophoneGlobal F1. Most users should now be able to unlock within 3 days.
Please apply let us know if you are still facing problems
— Jai Mani (@jaimani) September 4, 2018

The POCOphone F1 is a prime target for bootloader unlocking as it nets users powerful components (notably, a Snapdragon 845 chipset) at a $300 price. This means fans can remove the Xiaomi MIUI skin and install custom ROMs, or customize the device however they like, while maintaining the bargain top-end bones of the product inside.

The smartphone, launched under Xiaomi’s new POCO sub-brand, first went on sale in India on August 29. The second flash sale opened there at midday today.