How to Root Xiaomi Redmi 12: A Step-by-Step Guide

Xiaomi Redmi 12 is a popular smartphone that offers a range of features and functionalities. However, some users may want to root their device to gain more control over its settings and install custom ROMs or apps that require root access. Rooting a smartphone can be a daunting task for beginners, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to root Xiaomi Redmi 12.

Before You Begin: Understanding Rooting and its Implications

Before we dive into the process of rooting Xiaomi Redmi 12, it is essential to understand what rooting means and the implications it may have on your device. Rooting refers to the process of gaining privileged control over the Android operating system, allowing users to access and modify system files and settings that are typically restricted.

Rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 can offer several advantages, such as:

• Ability to install custom ROMs: Rooting your device allows you to install custom ROMs that can enhance the performance and features of your smartphone.
• Access to root-only apps: Some apps require root access to unlock advanced features and functionalities.
• Greater control over system settings: Rooting gives you the freedom to customize various system settings to suit your preferences.
• Removal of bloatware: Bloatware refers to pre-installed apps that cannot be uninstalled without root access. Rooting allows you to remove such apps and free up storage space.

However, it is important to note that rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 also comes with certain risks and drawbacks:

• Voiding warranty: Most smartphone manufacturers consider rooting as a violation of their warranty terms. Rooting your device may void any existing warranty.
• Security risks: Rooting can potentially expose your device to security vulnerabilities if not done correctly or if you install untrusted apps or ROMs.
• Bricking your device: If the rooting process is not followed correctly, it may result in “bricking” your Xiaomi Redmi 12, rendering it unusable.

Now that you understand the implications of rooting, let’s proceed with the step-by-step guide to root Xiaomi Redmi 12.

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Before you start the rooting process, it is crucial to back up all your important data, including contacts, photos, videos, and documents. Rooting involves modifying system files, and there is a small chance that something may go wrong, leading to data loss. By backing up your data, you can ensure that even if something goes wrong during the rooting process, you won’t lose any valuable information.

You can back up your data using built-in backup options provided by Xiaomi, such as Mi Cloud or Mi Account. Additionally, you can use third-party apps like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up your files and contacts.

Step 2: Enable Developer Options and USB Debugging

In order to root your Xiaomi Redmi 12, you need to enable Developer Options and USB Debugging on your device. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Go to the “Settings” app on your Xiaomi Redmi 12.
2. Scroll down and tap on “About phone”.
3. Locate “MIUI version” and tap on it seven times. This will enable Developer Options on your device.
4. Go back to the main “Settings” page and tap on “Additional settings”.
5. Scroll down and tap on “Developer options”.
6. Toggle the “Developer options” switch to enable it.
7. Scroll down and find “USB debugging”. Toggle the switch next to it to enable USB debugging.

Enabling USB debugging allows your Xiaomi Redmi 12 to communicate with your computer and perform advanced operations during the rooting process.

Step 3: Unlock the Bootloader

Before you can root your Xiaomi Redmi 12, you need to unlock the bootloader. The bootloader is a piece of software that loads the operating system on your device. By default, the bootloader on Xiaomi devices is locked to prevent unauthorized modifications to the system.

Unlocking the bootloader will erase all data on your Xiaomi Redmi 12, so make sure you have backed up your data before proceeding. Here are the steps to unlock the bootloader:

1. Make sure your Xiaomi Redmi 12 is connected to the internet.
2. Go to the official Xiaomi Mi Unlock website on your computer: https://en.miui.com/unlock/.
3. Click on the “Unlock Now” button and sign in with your Mi Account. If you don’t have a Mi Account, create one.
4. Download the Mi Unlock Tool on your computer.
5. Open the Mi Unlock Tool and sign in with the same Mi Account used in step 3.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions in the Mi Unlock Tool to unlock the bootloader of your Xiaomi Redmi 12. This may involve waiting for a specific period of time or completing additional steps.

Once the bootloader is unlocked, your Xiaomi Redmi 12 will reboot automatically, and you will see a message indicating that the bootloader is unlocked. Now you are ready to root your device.

Step 4: Download and Install a Custom Recovery

In order to root Xiaomi Redmi 12, you need to install a custom recovery on your device. A custom recovery is a replacement for the stock recovery that comes with your device and provides additional features and options for installing custom ROMs, making backups, and more.

The most popular custom recovery for Xiaomi devices is TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). Here’s how you can install TWRP on your Xiaomi Redmi 12:

1. Download the TWRP recovery image specific to your Xiaomi Redmi 12 model from the official TWRP website: https://twrp.me/xiaomi/xiaomiredmi12.html.
2. Copy the downloaded recovery image file to the internal storage of your Xiaomi Redmi 12.
3. Open the “Settings” app on your Xiaomi Redmi 12.
4. Scroll down and tap on “About phone”.
5. Locate “MIUI version” and tap on it seven times to enable Developer Options (if you haven’t enabled it already).
6. Go back to the main “Settings” page and tap on “Additional settings”.
7. Scroll down and tap on “Developer options”.
8. Toggle the “USB debugging” switch to enable it.
9. Connect your Xiaomi Redmi 12 to your computer using a USB cable.
10. Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer.
11. Enter the following command to boot your Xiaomi Redmi 12 into fastboot mode:

adb reboot bootloader

12. Once your Xiaomi Redmi 12 is in fastboot mode, enter the following command to flash the TWRP recovery image:

fastboot flash recovery twrp.img

Replace “twrp.img” with the actual filename of the TWRP recovery image you downloaded in step 1.

13. After the TWRP recovery image is successfully flashed, enter the following command to reboot your Xiaomi Redmi 12:

fastboot reboot

Your Xiaomi Redmi 12 will now reboot into the newly installed TWRP recovery.

Step 5: Root Xiaomi Redmi 12 using Magisk

Magisk is a popular root solution that allows you to root your Xiaomi Redmi 12 without modifying the system partition. This means that you can still receive OTA (Over-The-Air) updates from Xiaomi and maintain the ability to use banking apps that typically do not work on rooted devices.

Here’s how you can root Xiaomi Redmi 12 using Magisk:

1. Download the latest Magisk ZIP file from the official Magisk GitHub repository: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/releases.
2. Copy the downloaded Magisk ZIP file to the internal storage of your Xiaomi Redmi 12.
3. Boot your Xiaomi Redmi 12 into TWRP recovery. To do this, power off your device and then press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons simultaneously until the TWRP logo appears.
4. In TWRP recovery, tap on “Install”.
5. Navigate to the location where you copied the Magisk ZIP file in step 2 and select it.
6. Swipe the slider to flash Magisk and root your Xiaomi Redmi 12.
7. Once the flashing process is complete, tap on “Reboot System”.

Congratulations! You have successfully rooted your Xiaomi Redmi 12 using Magisk. Your device will now reboot, and you will have full root access.

Conclusion

Rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 can unlock a world of possibilities, allowing you to customize your device and access advanced features. However, it is essential to understand the risks and implications associated with rooting, such as voiding your warranty or exposing your device to security vulnerabilities. If you decide to root your Xiaomi Redmi 12, make sure to follow the step-by-step guide provided in this article carefully.

Remember, the rooting process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and software version of your Xiaomi Redmi 12. Always refer to official and trusted sources for the most up-to-date instructions.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I unroot my Xiaomi Redmi 12 after rooting it?

Yes, you can unroot your Xiaomi Redmi 12 after rooting it. To do this, open the Magisk Manager app on your device and go to the “Uninstall” section. Tap on “Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions to remove root access from your device.

2. Will rooting my Xiaomi Redmi 12 void my warranty?

Yes, rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 may void your warranty. Most smartphone manufacturers consider rooting as a violation of their warranty terms. However, if you unroot your device before seeking warranty service, it may still be eligible for repairs under warranty. It is always advisable to check the warranty terms and conditions provided by Xiaomi or consult their customer support for more information.

3. Can I still receive OTA updates after rooting my Xiaomi Redmi 12?

If you root your Xiaomi Redmi 12 using Magisk, you can still receive OTA updates from Xiaomi. Magisk allows you to root your device without modifying the system partition, which enables you to install OTA updates without any issues. However, it is essential to note that OTA updates may remove root access, and you may need to re-flash Magisk after updating your device.

4. Is it safe to root Xiaomi Redmi 12?

Rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 can expose your device to security risks if not done correctly or if you install untrusted apps or ROMs. It is essential to follow the rooting process carefully and use trusted sources for custom recoveries and root solutions like Magisk. Additionally, make sure to keep your device and apps up to date to mitigate potential security vulnerabilities.

5. What are the advantages of rooting my Xiaomi Redmi 12?

Rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 offers several advantages, including the ability to install custom ROMs, access root-only apps, customize system settings, and remove bloatware. It allows you to take full control of your device and unlock advanced features and functionalities that are not available on stock devices.

Summary

In summary, rooting your Xiaomi Redmi 12 can be a rewarding experience for users who want to unlock the full potential of their device. However, it is important to weigh the benefits against the risks and implications of rooting. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article and using trusted sources for custom recoveries and root solutions, you can root your Xiaomi Redmi 12 safely and enjoy the benefits of a rooted device.

Related video of How to Root Xiaomi Redmi 12: A Step-by-Step Guide