How To Unlock Bootloader Without Sim Card May 2026
Some manufacturers provide tools and software that allow users to unlock the bootloader using a computer and USB cable. For example:
MediaTek-powered phones (Tecno, Infinix, Doogee, some Xiaomi Redmi Notes) have a hidden engineering backdoor called MTK Metamode. You don't need a SIM, a PC account, or permission.
Requirements:
Steps:
No SIM card is ever involved because BROM mode runs before the Android OS loads. how to unlock bootloader without sim card
Xiaomi requires you to apply for permission via the "Mi Unlock Tool." Traditionally, this required a SIM card linked to a Xiaomi account with active mobile data. However, Xiaomi quietly updated the policy.
New SIM-less Process (HyperOS/MIUI 14+): Some manufacturers provide tools and software that allow
Critical Tip: If Mi Unlock says "SIM card not recognized," use a Wi-Fi hotspot from another phone. The tool only needs internet, not cellular. Some users also report success by inserting any deactivated SIM card (an old pay-as-you-go card with zero balance) just to satisfy the initial check, then removing it.