Unlike older phones, modern Xiaomi phones usually do not require a manual SMS application process, but you must still bind the account.
This is where most users fail. Xiaomi requires your account to be linked to the specific device. How to unlock Bootloader in XIAOMI Mi 8 SE with...
Crucial Note for Mi 8 SE: Xiaomi imposes a waiting period that varies by account age and device history. For the Mi 8 SE, the typical wait is 168 hours (7 days) or 360 hours (15 days) for newer accounts. There is no way to bypass this—it is a server-side restriction. During this period, do not log out of your Mi account on the phone. Unlike older phones, modern Xiaomi phones usually do
Open Command Prompt in your platform-tools folder: This is where most users fail
fastboot devices
If you see xxxxxxxx fastboot, the connection is correct. If you see nothing, reinstall drivers.
This is the most critical and often missed step.
⚠️ The Waiting Period:
Xiaomi forces a waiting period (usually 168 hours = 7 days, sometimes 360 hours) from the moment you bind your account. You must keep the SIM card in the phone, stay logged into the same Mi account, and do not factory reset during this time. The Mi 8 SE may require a shorter period, but be prepared for up to 7 days.