Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing difficulty and risks associated with unlocking the bootloader (BL) of Xiaomi smartphones, leading some users to resort to desperate measures to bypass these restrictions. Group 1: Xiaomi's Bootloader Unlocking Policy - Xiaomi has implemented stringent measures for unlocking the BL, including requiring users to answer numerous questions and submit a written application, which has been likened to an examination [2][3][4]. - The new unlocking strategy has led to a phenomenon where users attempt to outsmart engineers at Xiaomi service centers to obtain unlocked devices [4][5]. Group 2: User Behavior and Risks - Users are increasingly taking risks to unlock their devices, with reports of individuals attempting to snatch unlocked phones from service personnel [1][4]. - The success rate of these attempts is not guaranteed, as service engineers are quick to re-lock the BL [4]. Group 3: Industry Trends - Other manufacturers, such as Samsung, are also tightening controls on bootloader unlocking, as evidenced by the removal of the "OEM Unlock" option in the latest One UI 8 system [5][8]. - The trend indicates a broader industry shift towards restricting user modifications to enhance security and protect user data [30][34]. Group 4: Historical Context and Evolution - The article outlines the historical significance of bootloader unlocking in the Android ecosystem, noting that it was once a means to improve device functionality but has now become a risky hobby for many users [12][19]. - As smartphone usage has evolved, the risks associated with unlocking the BL have increased, particularly concerning the security of personal information stored on devices [21][23].