What does a locked or unlocked bootloader mean?

The bootloader starts the operating system. Locked is the secure factory state for signed firmware, normal use and regular updates. Unlocked can allow other software to be flashed, but may erase data and cause security, update or stability problems.

TradingShenzhen supplies Xiaomi devices with a locked bootloader and does not offer an unlock service. Buy a China model only if you intend to use the supplied firmware. Xiaomi’s global unlock procedure does not automatically apply to imported China models and is not a promise that a Global ROM can be installed.