Good news for Xiaomi smartphone users! You will no longer need to unlock the bootloader to install the MIUI 10 Beta ROM. Phones runs MIUI 9 Global Stable ROM (latest version is MIUI 9.6) can install the MIUI 10 Global Beta ROM without having to unlock the bootloader. It means any users can test the latest MIUI 10 Beta without the complicated fastboot method.
For now, the method supports only few Xiaomi phones, such as Redmi Y1 Lite, Redmi Y1, Redmi 5A, Redmi Note 5 and Redmi Note 5 Pro. Other phones should continue to unlock the bootloader and install the Beta ROM via fastboot method. These devices may also include in the support list soon.
If you wish to test the latest MIUI 10 Beta ROM 8.8.16 on your Mi/Redmi device, but do not want to unlock the bootloader, then you can use the Updater method. Below is the supported devices list and required ROM version.
Redmi 5 runs V9.6.3.0.NDAMIFD
Redmi 5A runs V9.6.2.0.NCKMIFD
Redmi Note 5 runs V9.6.4.0.NEGMIFD
Redmi Note 5 Pro runs V9.5.19.0.OEIMIFA
Redmi Y1/Y1 Lite Runs V9.5.10.0.NDKMIFA
Also Read: Update Redmi Note 5 Pro to Android 9 Pie via Pixel Experience ROM
If you own above mentions device runs on the suggested MIUI 9 stable ROM, then you can install the latest MIUI 10 Beta ROM 8.8.16 via the Updater app. For rest of the devices, users should follow the old Fastboot method.
How to Install MIUI 10 Beta ROM Without Unlocking Bootloader
Warning: This method will wipe user data partition (wipe apps and other data including media), so backup your device first. Also, make sure the battery is charged above 60%.
1. Download MIUI 10 Global Beta 8.8.16 Recovery image file for your device from here.
2. Transfer the downloaded recovery image file on your phone
3. Open Settings -> about phone -> System Update -> tap three dots -> Choose update package (select the ROM package you saved on your phone)
4. Reboot the device when asked and let the process to complete.
Once completed, you will be greeted with the MIUI 10 start-up screen. [Source]
