Xperia Pro 12W22 - is there *any* way to unlock the SIM? - Xperia Arc Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Just bought an Xperia Pro (mk16a) that's locked to Fido. Purchased an unlock code from CellUnlocker, which didn't work. (And of course Testpoint doesn't work, either.)
I need to resell the phone since I can't unlock the bootloader... seriously, is there any way to remove the phone network lock using the NCK method?
Rip-$#%^ pissed at Sony for pretending they care about the developer community by offering their "official" unlocking method, and then turning around and locking down all new phones. Such BS.

Its not Sony's fault that your carrier wont let you unlock your phone.

Isn't Sony responsible for putting in new security to unlock the booloader? (Not sim/network lock, bootloader lock. )

roxy1712 said:
Rip-$#%^ pissed at Sony for pretending they care about the developer community by offering their "official" unlocking method, and then turning around and locking down all new phones. Such BS.
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+1. They are also locking down Phones that are being sent in for repair which is just ridiculous and like you say they give the impression on one hand that they're helping while taking away any currently existing methods with the other. I'd be tempted to sue them if they sent my Phone back and I wasn't able to unlock it with the Test Point method as I had done before.

You are wrong. You can't unlock your bootloader because its locked by your carrier not Sony. "However, even if the device model is supported, certain releases of the device model may not be supported due to operator restrictions." its really hard to miss this sentence in Sony's "unlock bootloader" guide. For more info on the subject read this http://talk.sonymobile.com/thread/40526

pypcier said:
You are wrong. You can't unlock your bootloader because its locked by your carrier not Sony. "However, even if the device model is supported, certain releases of the device model may not be supported due to operator restrictions." its really hard to miss this sentence in Sony's "unlock bootloader" guide. For more info on the subject read this http://talk.sonymobile.com/thread/40526
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Dangit. It's not exactly well-published, though (e.g., no blog entries, news, etc... it's all buried in forums & the guide) -- I spent several hours researching and it seems not many have talked about carrier locking bootloaders, though. (I'm still not letting Sony off the hook. They made it possible for carriers to lock bootloaders with no good explanation.)
That being said, does this mean Fido is the only one who can unlock the bootloader?

I agree and I think that its unbelievable that there is no official information or even an article about this.
I'm still not letting Sony off the hook. They made it possible for carriers to lock bootloaders with no good explanation.
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The sad part is that its not only a Sony but all Android phones manufacturers.
That being said, does this mean Fido is the only one who can unlock the bootloader?
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I don't really know because my phone came with unlockable bootloader and I've googled all that info a few hours ago but i think you should start by calling Fido for their statement on this case. If they refuse to cooperate then email Sony for help or/and look for some "legal stuff" that will support your case.

Related

[Q]"Could not unlock network" - Arc S LT18i

HI guys,
I got an Xperia Arc S that was sim locked, so I contacted orange support and they gave me the code for unlocking, but when I entered the code it said "Could not unlock network", then I checked and the phone was hard locked..
I didn't enter any codes before orange gave me this one, and I bought it new, still its hard locked..
Is there any way that I can somehow undo the hard lock, so I can enter the unlock code??
Also does unlocking bootloader removes sim lock or hard lock??
Thx in advance
P.S.
It's 12W19 so the SETool doesn't work
unlocking bootloader DOESN'T removes sim lock or hard lock.
realzahed said:
unlocking bootloader DOESN'T removes sim lock or hard lock.
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OK, but can hard lock somehow be removed or something so I can enter the code?
Bump.
Have the same problem with a BRAND NEW Sony Ericsson MK16a Xperia Pro from Fido in Canada.
I had earlier attempted a testpoint and it failed (only then did I find out about the post-12W14 ones not working with testpoint). Mine is 12W21.
I bought an unlock code, but it kept failing. I checked the unlock attempts counter in the hidden menu, and it showed 10 attempts, and that number decreased to 7 (I tried 3 times).
Brought the phone to the shop where I bought the code. They claim my phone is hardlocked!
Tried buying the code from another provider. Code is exactly the same as the one that didn't work.
Any idea what to do?
machoman1337 said:
Have the same problem with a BRAND NEW Sony Ericsson MK16a Xperia Pro from Fido in Canada.
Any idea what to do?
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Was it supposed to be unlocked in the first place? I'd just take it back to the place where I bought it.
Moronicus said:
Was it supposed to be unlocked in the first place? I'd just take it back to the place where I bought it.
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What do you mean by "supposed to be unlocked"? It was locked to begin with and I assumed I could just buy a code and unlock it like any other phone.
Before trying to use a bought code, I had tried a testpoint unlock which did not work due to this being a new security model.
Unfortunately I can't take it back to Fido because I'm past their 15 day return policy.
There is a Youtube video of an identical problem to mine: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aCxH2e47gY
I just want to verify if the new security MCUs are blocking the ability to use network unlock codes.
machoman1337 said:
What do you mean by "supposed to be unlocked"? It was locked to begin with and I assumed I could just buy a code and unlock it like any other phone.
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I don't really know how phones are being sold in Canada, but here in Finland you can just go and buy an unlocked phone. If it then turns out to be locked, of course they will have to unlock it for you.
Or, you can go and buy a phone with a subscription, in which case it may be locked to the carrier in question. YOYO if you switch carriers and still want to use the same phone.
I'm having the same problem with a Fido Xperia U, had 10 attempts initially, now down to 4 after going through an ebay seller mister unlock and now cellunlocker.net, both provided me the same unlock code but it doesn't seems to work.
Mine's a brand new phone, everything stock, I even tried to reflash the firmware with the Sony PC Companion even though I had the latest firmware already.
Same as this guy:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lCoGhc6BCE
machoman1337 said:
All right, that makes at least 4 confirmed cases of new 2012 Fido Xperias not being unlockable with purchased codes. Let's bring this up with Fido and Sony and see what can be done.
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machoman1337:
You have this unlock xperia pro things solved? I have exactly same problem. Purchased 2 codes from 2 suppliers. Codes are identical and not working. Someone is advertising software unlock at fastgsm.com
minghe said:
machoman1337:
You have this unlock xperia pro things solved? I have exactly same problem. Purchased 2 codes from 2 suppliers. Codes are identical and not working. Someone is advertising software unlock at fastgsm.com
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wow, this really is serious eh... I managed to sell that xperia in the end (locked). F*** Sony honestly.
if someone finds a solution please let me know.
I whiling to pay up to 30 CAD to unlock my phone.

Bootloader unlock no

is there a way to install a different rom like from another country and have bootloader unlock through flashing?? right now im using ftf c6506 firmware unbranded us .423
dragonmhawk said:
is there a way to install a different rom like from another country and have bootloader unlock through flashing?? right now im using ftf c6506 firmware unbranded us .423
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This should go in the Q & A section, not developement.
I have a locked bootloader c6506 as well, currently there is no way around the locked bootloader if you aren't allowed to unlock it through the official way.
Bootloader unlock allowed no solved. Its locked by your carrier. You have to call your carrier and talk to them and push hard to get what you want. Or call Sony. carrier lock is the problem here. The bootloader is locked by the carrier. not Sony. After its carrier unlocked if u cant unlock the bootloader then you have to take it to a sony technician to get your bootloader unlocked Hit thanks if I helped in any way and pls check forums for my other posts and projects thanks again
dragonmhawk said:
Bootloader unlock allowed no solved. Its locked by your carrier. You have to call your carrier and talk to them and push hard to get what you want. Or call Sony. carrier lock is the problem here. The bootloader is locked by the carrier. not Sony. After its carrier unlocked if u cant unlock the bootloader then you have to take it to a sony technician to get your bootloader unlocked Hit thanks if I helped in any way and pls check forums for my other posts and projects thanks again
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Wait wait wait
Can you clarify exactly how you went about this? You call Bell Tech Support and they unlocked it? What do you mean "if you can't unlock the bootloader, take it to Sony". Were you able to unlock or no? Where do I find a Sony technician?
Thanks
I called bell and they said they could carrier unlock my phone for 75$ charged to my bill. this should unlock bootloader if not find an asain area with cell phone services they should be able to help and r licensed technicians as well.
Anybody with rogers try this?
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
dragonmhawk said:
I called bell and they said they could carrier unlock my phone for 75$ charged to my bill. this should unlock bootloader if not find an asain area with cell phone services they should be able to help and r licensed technicians as well.
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Carrier unlock IS NOT bootloader unlock. The ONLY way at the moment to get a guaranteed BL unlockable device, is to get it DIRECTLY from Sony Store (USA). I contacted the few Sony Stores in Canada (GTA area) and many of the people I talked to didn't even know what the BL is so it's not reliable. I got mine off ebay and got the seller to check before I bought it. Only the C6506 variants direct from the Sony Store are likely to have unlockable BL. No technician (unless they work for Sony) will be able to unlock the bootloader.
Also, $75 is WAAAY to much for carrier/SIM unlock. You can probably find it for $20-$40 from a cell unlock website. Cheaper than that if you're lucky.
bell was going to unlock my phone and send me a code to unlock the bootloader. so there you go. I talked to them and figured it out. its the carrier who locked the bootloader not sony
dragonmhawk said:
bell was going to unlock my phone and send me a code to unlock the bootloader. so there you go. I talked to them and figured it out. its the carrier who locked the bootloader not sony
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That doesn't sound right. If it was that easy to unlock the BL more people would do it, and it would be more known in the community. And I'm pretty sure you can't unlock the BL with just a code. It's an incredibly more complex procedure than that. See http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/instructions. It sounds like they are misleading you to believe it will unlock the bootloader, rather than just SIM unlock. Of course it is the carrier who locks the bootloader, that's why I said the only way to get an unlockable ZL is straight from Sony, who has no carrier branding.
dragonmhawk said:
Bootloader unlock allowed no solved. Its locked by your carrier. You have to call your carrier and talk to them and push hard to get what you want. Or call Sony. carrier lock is the problem here. The bootloader is locked by the carrier. not Sony. After its carrier unlocked if u cant unlock the bootloader then you have to take it to a sony technician to get your bootloader unlocked Hit thanks if I helped in any way and pls check forums for my other posts and projects thanks again
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I think you're confusing people... the OP is asking for BOOTLOADER unlock, not a carrier unlock, calling Bell (Or any other carrier for that matter) will NEVER solve the problem, it's not the carriers that lock the bootloader, it's SONY. And calling them wont help either, unless it's a developer phone purchased directly through Sony, you won't be able to unlock.
I'm sure with time, some group of diligent Devs will crack the bootloader problem the same way that Revolutionary.IO cracks through S-Off for HTC's
In the interim, you're out of luck.
This is somewhat depressing. Gods, how I miss Cyanogenmod on my S3. I find it very difficult to believe that there is no solution for this. Sure, it hasn't yet been developed, but there is always a way.
Just be patient folks. Something will pop up sooner or later.
I hope.
pm2gonzales said:
Of course it is the carrier who locks the bootloader, that's why I said the only way to get an unlockable ZL is straight from Sony, who has no carrier branding.
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Almost, it's not the carrier that locks it, or even the carrier that requests it be locked, it's Sony locking it before sending it. Unlocking the bootloader is a DEVELOPMENT option, not a CONSUMER option, anything that is going to the hands of a consumer gets locked, ie. ALL CARRIER phones.
Unlocking the bootloader mean you can write to the system partitions without using EXPLOITS to gain root access (Which is what we're doing now)
It's the fastest way for a consumer to brick their phone, which is why they all leave the factory locked, unless you're buying directly from them, at which point, they assume you aren't a consumer, and you may then unlock your bootloader by use of http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/ and FastBoot in the Android Dev Kit.
Not to beat a dead horse or get into a he said she said scenario, But let me explain how it all works to the best of my ability.
First do not call any carrier and think they will understand what it means to unlock a bootloader, for the most part they are not aware of the bootloader. this is not covered in they're training.
Now Sony locks the bootloaders for carriers, this is a request from the carriers. Sony could care less if it's locked or not. The carriers care, why do they care you may ask. well if the phones they sold had unlocked bootloaders than you could more easily sim unlock you phone and move on. on top off that the ability to brick your phone increases 10 fold. now how many users would mess up their phone and just return it and lie to get a new phone. now the carrier sends it back to Sony under warranty and Sony does not honor the warranty as they know it was tampered with.
Sony is pretty good at supporting Dev's and even has an aosp 4.3 version for user's to try.
last thing i want to say is don't hold your breath on a hack to un lock a locked down bootloader. our batteries are not removable and this makes the processes harder. I bought my Xperia S the week it was launched and a solution for that phone never came. well at least not one I could confirm works. See when the xperia s was released it's was Sony's first phone they made without Ericson. from my understanding this was part of the reason why it got harder. we need access to the SE s1 server and last I checked it was offline fopr over a year, came online for a week and a few users were able to pay 60 us to have there unlockable bootloaders unlocked. as Sony devs could do it with the S1 server and apologize to SE move on.
I'm not sure if this will help or not but do a Google search on how unlocking phones started and read how it has evolved. a good place to start is to search for se s1 server.
hope this helps.
I will explain again my convo i had with bell about unlocking my phone and bootloader. they even asked me do i understand i will lose warrenty if i unlock my bootloader. i said yes they were gonna send me the code to unlock the bootloader. but i couldnt cause i didnt have the phone for 90 days. it can only be done through ur carrier cause they send u the bootloader unlock code u need to unlock it. unlocking the phone they do through the imei. It costs 75$ extra added onto ur phone bill though. but for the price of one gaurenteed way to unlock it its worth it. they said they had to contact sony too in the convo i had with the bell guy. it was a supervisor i talked to and understood exactly what i wanted done. he knew what i was talking about as well. so its possible. just hasn't been confrimed yet. and heres a huge hint. someones working on a hack for this. eta idk. im gonna be one of the testers for this hack/exploit. i cant say much else. top secret of course.
dragonmhawk said:
I will explain again my convo i had with bell about unlocking my phone and bootloader. they even asked me do i understand i will lose warrenty if i unlock my bootloader. i said yes they were gonna send me the code to unlock the bootloader. but i couldnt cause i didnt have the phone for 90 days. it can only be done through ur carrier cause they send u the bootloader unlock code u need to unlock it. unlocking the phone they do through the imei. It costs 75$ extra added onto ur phone bill though. but for the price of one gaurenteed way to unlock it its worth it. they said they had to contact sony too in the convo i had with the bell guy. it was a supervisor i talked to and understood exactly what i wanted done. he knew what i was talking about as well. so its possible. just hasn't been confrimed yet. and heres a huge hint. someones working on a hack for this. eta idk. im gonna be one of the testers for this hack/exploit. i cant say much else. top secret of course.
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Did you get the code? Are you now able to install a custom kernel? If not, then this is completely irrelevant. If so, you've saved a lot of people a pretty decent headache.
We need you to confirm this as $75 is a steep fee for something nobody is even sure is legit. Sure, you say it is, and I'm not disputing you, but I need evidence before I give Bell free money. I need to be 100% sure.
If you can install Cyanogenmod, that's all I want.
[Also, I saw in your signature you're being screwed by Rogers. High-five, me too!]
well i still have to wait a bit. hasnt been 90 days since i got my first xperia zl. first one i bricked second one fell down the stairs on my third one now. 90 days to wait for my new one but im gonna try and see if i can get the code and use it on mine if it works yay will let u guys know for sure.
dragonmhawk said:
well i still have to wait a bit. hasnt been 90 days since i got my first xperia zl. first one i bricked second one fell down the stairs on my third one now. 90 days to wait for my new one but im gonna try and see if i can get the code and use it on mine if it works yay will let u guys know for sure.
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100% guaranteed they're talking about SIM unlock. Sorry. 'Unlocking the bootloader' is not something you can do with a code provided by a carrier, and a 90 day wait is *precisely* Rogers' policy for SIM unlocks. They are going to give you a SIM unlock code and charge you a lot of money for it. You could get it now, for $8, from any one of a bunch of unlock sellers.
I will explain one last time for those who dont have the time to understand. I called bell myself. Have any of u even tried calling ur carrier? Probably not. This works. I called bell i asked my phone to be fully "unlocked" this includes the bootloader. They said they could unlock the carrier onlt but i would have to wait for my bootloader unlock code to be sent to me by someone else. Only one else that could be is sony. So there. Anyone else not gonna actually try calling their carrier? I even talked to sony they said only they can send the bootloader unlock code but to do that i have to have my carrier unlock my phone fully for me and have my carrier contact sony to send me my bootloader unlock code. I havent had my phone long enough to do this but it works clearly. Sony confirmed it to me over the phone. One of the higher ups. Asked for a supervisor and i got one of their devs on. So anyone else want keep trolling this thread? I only speak the truth. Those who have doubt in life will fail. Have no doubt or fear and you will always succeed
dragonmhawk said:
I will explain one last time for those who dont have the time to understand. I called bell myself. Have any of u even tried calling ur carrier? Probably not. This works. I called bell i asked my phone to be fully "unlocked" this includes the bootloader. They said they could unlock the carrier onlt but i would have to wait for my bootloader unlock code to be sent to me by someone else. Only one else that could be is sony. So there. Anyone else not gonna actually try calling their carrier? I even talked to sony they said only they can send the bootloader unlock code but to do that i have to have my carrier unlock my phone fully for me and have my carrier contact sony to send me my bootloader unlock code. I havent had my phone long enough to do this but it works clearly. Sony confirmed it to me over the phone. One of the higher ups. Asked for a supervisor and i got one of their devs on. So anyone else want keep trolling this thread? I only speak the truth. Those who have doubt in life will fail. Have no doubt or fear and you will always succeed
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Weird I contacted Sony myself also and I was told by them that if it says no for bootloader they can't unlock the bootloader. Seems to be some mis information but it also depends on who you talk to. We need to find a alternate way to unlock
Sent from my C6506 using Tapatalk 4
U have to be " persistant" or u wont get anywhere ask for a supervisor don't give up. one guy knew exactly what i was talking about.

Unlocked CDMA Variant?

I have looked around and can't seem to find a model that is cdma compatible with sprint that has the ability to unlock the bootloader. Seems the A505U carrier variant can't unlock the bootloader. I've tried doing the 7 day trick but it doesn't seem to work for the A505U sadly(looking for additional confirmation on this).
Also on the look out for this, but it's not looking very promising. ?
I wish there were an unlocked varient for the US i just purchased one and didnt realize till when i looked at the model number that its for Europe
So the Sprint model can not be unlocked and rooted? I haven't owned a Samsung device for several years but the A50 peaked my interest. Looks like the same scenario, GSM models can be unlocked and CDMA can not.
Xplorer4x4 said:
I have looked around and can't seem to find a model that is cdma compatible with sprint that has the ability to unlock the bootloader. Seems the A505U carrier variant can't unlock the bootloader. I've tried doing the 7 day trick but it doesn't seem to work for the A505U sadly(looking for additional confirmation on this).
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Sprints S10 5G (G977P) is bl unlockable..
elliwigy said:
Sprints S10 5G (G977P) is bl unlockable..
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I've seen atleast one other report that the 505U on Sprint and Verizon has locked BL. I've been told in telegram this si the case to. I have tested the 7 day trick extensively and it doesn't work on A505U. Did you have to do something special to get the oem unlock in dev options?
New To The Game..
Hello Gents...
Just picked up an Xfinity Version of the A50.
I have no plans to unlock and root.. as I want the security of Knox for Samsung / Google Pay.
But.. has anyone looked into what Xfinity is doing with their software?
Sprint Samsung A50 BL Unlock NO GO!
Ok so I am now an employee of Sprint. The information I have gathered is as follows. When Sprint requested this device from Samsung in their lengthy list of requirements one of them was that the ability to unlock the bootloader be removed. The reasoning behind this was that they did not want the end users to wind up " Accidentally " bricking their devices. As per insurance guidelines any attempt to modify the devices hardware and or software voids your warranty and your insurance that you carry on the device. So basically what they are saying is hey Android / Samsung community because of several hundred unintelligent people ruining their own devices we are removing the option in general. I am currently pushing to see if we can work with Samsung to push a firmware update that will allow this feature to be accessible as the whole point of having an android device it the open platform and being able to do these things. I really wish more cell phone manufacturers were like HTC which allows you to unlock the boot loader on any of their devices and even provide you a tool to turn S-Off on their website. But we cannot all be great.... Anyway hope that clears it up for ya'll and I am fighting the good fight on your behalf. P.S. I have the Samsung A50 and I was really not happy when I found out I could not root it.
@RoyalAssassin - QQ - will unlocked Sprint A50 work or can it be activated on VZ?
Huskers2012 said:
@RoyalAssassin - QQ - will unlocked Sprint A50 work or can it be activated on VZ?
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If you're sprint a50 is unlocked it should work fine on vzw. You can call vzw and give them you're imei to check compatibly.
Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
RoyalAssassin said:
Sprint Samsung A50 BL Unlock NO GO!
Ok so I am now an employee of Sprint. The information I have gathered is as follows. When Sprint requested this device from Samsung in their lengthy list of requirements one of them was that the ability to unlock the bootloader be removed. The reasoning behind this was that they did not want the end users to wind up " Accidentally " bricking their devices. As per insurance guidelines any attempt to modify the devices hardware and or software voids your warranty and your insurance that you carry on the device. So basically what they are saying is hey Android / Samsung community because of several hundred unintelligent people ruining their own devices we are removing the option in general. I am currently pushing to see if we can work with Samsung to push a firmware update that will allow this feature to be accessible as the whole point of having an android device it the open platform and being able to do these things. I really wish more cell phone manufacturers were like HTC which allows you to unlock the boot loader on any of their devices and even provide you a tool to turn S-Off on their website. But we cannot all be great.... Anyway hope that clears it up for ya'll and I am fighting the good fight on your behalf. P.S. I have the Samsung A50 and I was really not happy when I found out I could not root it.
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Here in 2021 looks like things didn't go well :'(
My old A505U is just off contract and the "OEM Unlock" switch is missing from the developer options menu. Additionally, none of the normal methods for getting it to appear have worked for me. (I have tried reflashing the stock firmware, the whole messing with the date&time and updating, factory reset + login + wait 2 to 14 days)
I have spent hours on the phone with both Samsung and my previous carrier, but with no results; none of their support people have the knowledge/are allowed to help with unlocking the bootloader.
I am getting very discouraged that this old phone of mine will ever run anything open :'(

Can I unlock a carrier locked bootloader (T-Mobile) by using the pixel factory flash

Hello. I just got a pixel 3a xl, but it is bootloader locked to T-Mobile, I see Google has a pixel repair tool to reflash the pixel to stock. My question is it asks for your carrier, if I change the carrier to a different carrier that doesn't lock the bootloader will o be able to unlock my bootloader to flash root.
While I could not say for sure, I suspect the answer would be 98 percent no.
Thanks I want to try but it's my only phone and if it is down for a while I have no phone and I need 2FA for work.
If I try I will post here
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk
You cannot unlock it from T-Mobile or unlock the bootloader, even with the flash tool... The flash tool does not/cannot modify that part of the phone, if it was that simple people would be doing it all the time.
Only T-Mobile can unlock the SIM, once that is done you can unlock the bootloader. Your only other option is to go through a 3rd party unlock code service, which can be sketchy according to some people (I have done it a few times without issue though).
I want to verify this.
SO if I buy a used T-Mobile 3a XL that is paid in full, I should be able to get it SIM unlocked by the carrier correct and if its carrier SIM unlocked, I CAN unlock the bootloader?
kdoggy said:
I want to verify this.
SO if I buy a used T-Mobile 3a XL that is paid in full, I should be able to get it SIM unlocked by the carrier correct and if its carrier SIM unlocked, I CAN unlock the bootloader?
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As long as it is not the Verizon model 3a, then yes. You can bootloader unlock it once it is SIM card unlocked. Only the Verizon models permanently lock the bootloader.
Question 2...
SO lets say I buy a T-Mobile 3a XL and it works fine with a T-M SIM but is SIM locked... Can I pay someone to unlock it and then still unlock the boot loader?
Someone know has a new in the box T-Mobile Pixel 3a XL I can have for $225.00 but its never had service on it and it sounds like it has to be active on T-Mobile AND have had seriver for 40 days to get them to do it.
kdoggy said:
Question 2...
SO lets say I buy a T-Mobile 3a XL and it works fine with a T-M SIM but is SIM locked... Can I pay someone to unlock it and then still unlock the boot loader?
Someone know has a new in the box T-Mobile Pixel 3a XL I can have for $225.00 but its never had service on it and it sounds like it has to be active on T-Mobile AND have had seriver for 40 days to get them to do it.
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I've seen unlock services being advertised, but I have also seen people post that they don't work. It would require that someone hacked or has access to the T-Mobile locking software which isn't out of the realm of possibility, so it's possible some services do work.
Hello friends, I need your help! Who can help me raise my brick and make a full backup of my smartphone using qpst?
Update. So I ended up buying a T-Mobile Pixel 4 XL when they went on sale.
Search my name and look at the thread reply I just posted in the Pixel 4 XL forum about T-Mobile unlocking.
I included pictures.
I just purchased a Pixel 4 XL, I'm brand new T-Mobile subscriber, the phone is not paid off and I have it on a lease and I've only been on the service for 4 days.
I currently have the T-Mobile Pixel 4 XL with both a full SIM card unlock and OEM bootloader unlock.
I'm currently running the phone with an AT&T physical SIM and a T-Mobile eSIM.
acejavelin said:
You cannot unlock it from T-Mobile or unlock the bootloader, even with the flash tool... The flash tool does not/cannot modify that part of the phone, if it was that simple people would be doing it all the time.
Only T-Mobile can unlock the SIM, once that is done you can unlock the bootloader. Your only other option is to go through a 3rd party unlock code service, which can be sketchy according to some people (I have done it a few times without issue though).
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Have any recommendations? I have a brand new Pixel 4 that an online retailer lied about being unlocked & is T-Mobile carrier locked & they're completely unwilling to release the Sim from their network. I'll take the sketchy unlock service. I tried one in ATL friend gave me a number but most only do Samsung's or iPhones for obvious reasons.
---------- Post added at 06:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:05 PM ----------
sic0048 said:
As long as it is not the Verizon model 3a, then yes. You can bootloader unlock it once it is SIM card unlocked. Only the Verizon models permanently lock the bootloader.
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Click to collapse
Not just Verizon though right? I heard Sprint does too.
Nightshadex543 said:
Have any recommendations? I have a brand new Pixel 4 that an online retailer lied about being unlocked & is T-Mobile carrier locked & they're completely unwilling to release the Sim from their network. I'll take the sketchy unlock service. I tried one in ATL friend gave me a number but most only do Samsung's or iPhones for obvious reasons.
---------- Post added at 06:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:05 PM ----------
Not just Verizon though right? I heard Sprint does too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep in mind there are SIM locks and bootloader locks. Every US carrier SIM locks you phone if it was bought in an installment plan. Once the phone is paid off, I think every carrier will SIM card unlock the phone.
All recent Pixel versions have to be SIM card unlocked before the bootloader unlock option is available. So you have to have a SIM card unlocked phone before you can bootloader unlock. But Verizon is the only US carrier that has asked Google to permanently bootloader lock their phones. Sprint and others don't weigh in on the subject and Google's policy is to allow bootloader unlock. This isn't necessarily true with other phone brands however.
As far as getting the phone SIM unlocked, the policy is to not do it, so it's rare to find a call center person that is willing to do it whether you call in or chat with someone online. However, the success stories that I do see are usually done by DMing the carrier's support group on Twitter of all places. Explain that you need to get the phone unlocked and many times they will do it.
sic0048 said:
Keep in mind there are SIM locks and bootloader locks. Every US carrier SIM locks you phone if it was bought in an installment plan. Once the phone is paid off, I think every carrier will SIM card unlock the phone.
All recent Pixel versions have to be SIM card unlocked before the bootloader unlock option is available. So you have to have a SIM card unlocked phone before you can bootloader unlock. But Verizon is the only US carrier that has asked Google to permanently bootloader lock their phones. Sprint and others don't weigh in on the subject and Google's policy is to allow bootloader unlock. This isn't necessarily true with other phone brands however.
As far as getting the phone SIM unlocked, the policy is to not do it, so it's rare to find a call center person that is willing to do it whether you call in or chat with someone online. However, the success stories that I do see are usually done by DMing the carrier's support group on Twitter of all places. Explain that you need to get the phone unlocked and many times they will do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm this. I'm on TMO and I reached out on Twitter and got results. I'm not a big Twitter fan nor do I really use it, but customer services seems to be more in the loop there. I told them that I wanted to try the dev preview of android 11 and I needed to bootloader unlock. For that to happen I needed them to permanently sim unlock my phone. (Technically you can install the preview with a locked BL, but since it's a preview you can't re-flash anything lower or rollback without the BL being unlocked). Hence the dev preview. Anyways, I was polite and truthful about my intentions and they got it sim unlocked, fairly quickly too.
sic0048 said:
Keep in mind there are SIM locks and bootloader locks. Every US carrier SIM locks you phone if it was bought in an installment plan. Once the phone is paid off, I think every carrier will SIM card unlock the phone.
All recent Pixel versions have to be SIM card unlocked before the bootloader unlock option is available. So you have to have a SIM card unlocked phone before you can bootloader unlock. But Verizon is the only US carrier that has asked Google to permanently bootloader lock their phones. Sprint and others don't weigh in on the subject and Google's policy is to allow bootloader unlock. This isn't necessarily true with other phone brands however.
As far as getting the phone SIM unlocked, the policy is to not do it, so it's rare to find a call center person that is willing to do it whether you call in or chat with someone online. However, the success stories that I do see are usually done by DMing the carrier's support group on Twitter of all places. Explain that you need to get the phone unlocked and many times they will do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its bootloaders unlocked I was almost done rooting it but haven't; refrained because I don't want to violate the software warranty incase I need to return it, & find another way to do so for a refund. I called support multiple times same answer, & then Twitter dm'd last night they were again unable to do anything so they say.
They cite "privacy issues" but I know it's a ****ing money grab they don't want to unlock it unless you want to pay for one of their plans & get tied in a contract for a minimum amount of days first & I'm not going to ****ing do that. It's ridiculous to me carriers behave this way. This is why I believe in hacking because you can't trust companies for absolutely ****.
You got results? Look at my next post, can you tell me your secret because they're being serious assholes here. Not a single company involved with this situation is helping at all.
Nightshadex543 said:
You got results? Look at my next post, can you tell me your secret because they're being serious assholes here. Not a single company involved with this situation is helping at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a little confused. You say it's bootloader unlocked and you were about to root it but decided not because of warranty concerns correct?
Typically, whenever you unlock a bootloader your warranty is void then and there. That is in most cases and I assume is the same in this case, though I don't know that for a fact with a TMO Pixel 3a XL. I just assumed it was and most likely is. The reason being is you can flash anything you want, and there is no way to guarantee that whatever has happened to warrant a claim wasn't due to user error or unofficial software. A locked bootloader kind of guarantees that nothing unofficial was flashed and that's why warranties are usually based around their status and why a flag is marked when it is. So even if you re-lock it, the flag still shows it was unlocked at one point.
As for actually unlocking it via TMO, the phone uses a TMO app to actually unlock it. It basically checks your imei against their server to see if it is eligible for unlocking. As for citing privacy concerns, basically you have a TMO phone and no account it seems, and you want it unlocked. For all they know it could be stolen, and as far as proving it's yours legally without any account... probably more than they want to deal with and I'm sure they have liability reasons as well.
All I know is, I've had an account for quite some time. I've bought several phones through them, so no issues. Technically I'm still on installments with this phone, so they could have easily said no, not until it's paid off, but I like to think they said "Oh it's Airwalk... he's cool af, go ahead".
41rw4lk said:
Typically, whenever you unlock a bootloader your warranty is void then and there. The reason being is you can flash anything you want, and there is no way to guarantee that whatever has happened to warrant a claim wasn't due to user error or unofficial software. So even if you re-lock it, the flag still shows it was unlocked at one point.
As for actually unlocking it via TMO, the phone uses a TMO app to actually unlock it. It basically checks your imei against their server to see if it is eligible for unlocking. As for citing privacy concerns, basically you have a TMO phone and no account it seems, and you want it unlocked. For all they know it could be stolen, and as far as proving it's yours legally without any account... probably more than they want to deal with and I'm sure they have liability reasons as well.
All I know is, I've had an account for quite some time. I've bought several phones through them, so no issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only Sprint & Verizon manufacturers lock the bootloaders of their phones T-Mobile doesn't. TWRP doesn't even exist for Pixel 4 because dude's too busy with wife & kids to update so flashing is difficult until you root it first unless you feel like doing a tethered through ADB. I know Samsung has the "Knox" & figured it's similar to that. Unless it's tripped it's negligible.
I know how the unlocking app works. Also, It's not stolen my situation is similar to the below it's "super whitelisted" I've had multiple services run the IMEI & it's come back clean. The phone meets all the unlocking criteria of which is being legit paid for is one of them.
They're just not releasing from the network. I need a workaround, I'm not trying to go through an entire claims process & have it sent back when aside from "network lock" it works just fine.
****ing Greedy ass corporations.
Nightshadex543 said:
Only Sprint & Verizon manufacturers lock the bootloaders of their phones T-Mobile doesn't. I'm TWRP doesn't even exist for Pixel 4 because dude's to busy with wife & kids to update so flashing is difficult until you root it first unless you feel like doing a tethered through ADB. I know Samsung has the "Knox" & figured it's similar to that. Unless it's tripped it's negligible.
I know how the unlocking app works. Also, It's not stolen my situation is similar to the below it's "super whitelisted" I've had multiple services run the IMEI & it's come back clean. The phone meets all the unlocking criteria of which is being legit paid for is one of them.
They're just not releasing from the network. I need a workaround, I'm not trying to go through an entire claims process & have it sent back when aside from "network lock" it works just fine.
****ing Greedy ass corporations.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, Pixel 4 needs sim unlocked, I was confused because this is 3a XL and I wasn't paying enough attention. I see your frustration now. I don't know about that one, just (bonito) here and it was all easy for me. I suppose that if you don't meet their requirements it's all too easy to just lock you into their script. I can't help you here, sorry. I think you'll just have to be 'that guy' and persist with them. Good luck.
Nightshadex543 said:
TWRP doesn't even exist for Pixel 4 because dude's too busy with wife & kids to update....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No quicker way to loose all goodwill and help from people than bad mouthing the generous developers.
Feel free to come up with your own TWRP solution. Until then, STFU.
sic0048 said:
Feel free to come up with your own TWRP solution. Until then, STFU.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That isn't even the subject of the thread. If you're going to ignore everything else I was saying & completely miss the point to focus on a single cherry-picked remark that triggered you then you can take a hike. Don't respond. Go invest your frustrated energies elsewhere
You know what? Maybe I will take the source code & develop my own unofficial TWRP build for it. Hacking & Technological communities don't just stop because you want to "move on with your life" we still need these tools. You think journalists whistleblowers & Chinese protesters can "do without" Tor?

Question Verizon Pixel 6 Pro Bootloader Unlock?

Its been a very long time since i have done any of this stuff. I bought the verizon version and cannot get bootloader unlocked. I have searched and see there has been the same problem in the past models. Is there a bypass or workaround? I can only find one for early Pixel products.
Kpwise509 said:
Its been a very long time since i have done any of this stuff. I bought the verizon version and cannot get bootloader unlocked. I have searched and see there has been the same problem in the past models. Is there a bypass or workaround? I can only find one for early Pixel products.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nvmnd. found my answer
Kpwise509 said:
nvmnd. found my answer
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in the same boat.. curious to what answer you found?
m1ng15 said:
I am in the same boat.. curious to what answer you found?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found another thread on here after I searched, and searched. From what I understand now. If it's a Verizon pixel the bootloader is locked permanently.
If you purchased your device from Verizon, or a Verizon variant from a 3rd party retailer (Best buy, Costco, etc.) the bootloader is locked tight!
If you want the option to root; return your VZW device and order one directly from Google.
It's not necessarily true, according to Verizon, they Sim unlock their phones after 60 days. Once that is done, we should be able to to check oem unlocking option in developers options and unlock the bootloader. Am I missing something?
mustangtim49 said:
It's not necessarily true, according to Verizon, they Sim unlock their phones after 60 days. Once that is done, we should be able to to check oem unlocking option in developers options and unlock the bootloader. Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Incorrect. SIM unlocking is not necessarily related to bootloader unlocking. While T-Mobile (and I think AT&T) users on here have found and reported that when they achieve SIM unlocking on their variants, that they can then bootloader unlock as well, Verizon has for a very, very long time enforced bootloader lock with all their will.
The only exceptions that I've ever heard of were not by choice of Verizon, but by hacks/vulnerabilities. Such as the VS985 LG G3, there was an exploit that didn't actually bootloader unlock, but more made it so that the locked bootloader didn't really matter. On the Pixel 1, if you had the Verizon variant and were still on Android 7.10 or below, you could unlock the bootloader, but once the 7.11 OTA came out, if you hadn't already unlocked the bootloader (or at least toggled the toggle), then you were locked in until a foreign national found a hacking way to get in, but they charge for it. All this while Verizon phones have been ultimately SIM unlocked for similarly a very long time.
mustangtim49 said:
It's not necessarily true, according to Verizon, they Sim unlock their phones after 60 days. Once that is done, we should be able to to check oem unlocking option in developers options and unlock the bootloader. Am I missing something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might be thinking 'carrier unlocked' vs "bootloader unlocked".
VZW does NOT like people rooting their devices so they have locked the bootloaders for several years now. I honestly don't even think any devs are working on a workaround/bypass for VZW devices anymore because they've had a long history of tightly locking down their device's bootloaders.
Az Biker said:
You might be thinking 'carrier unlocked' vs "bootloader unlocked".
VZW does NOT like people rooting their devices so they have locked the bootloaders for several years now. I honestly don't even think any devs are working on a workaround/bypass for VZW devices anymore because they've had a long history of tightly locking down their device's bootloaders.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information. If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point. I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
mustangtim49 said:
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information.
If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point.
I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I seriously doubt the "60 day sim unlock" allows the bootloader to be unlocked, otherwise we'd have a ton of VZW variant threads filled with development, and devices that are 61 days old, rooted, and running custom Roms.
But we don't. We don't have even have any developers working on VZW devices, regardless of age. So deductively thinking, the "60 day sim unlock" doesn't sound like it's currently an option.
Just my .02 (USD) worth
mustangtim49 said:
Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That has never, ever been the case with Verizon variants of phones. 1) Verizon phones have been SIM/carrier unlocked from the get-go for a very long time and 2) Except for rare anomalies like the Pixel 1 on Android 7.10 or below, OEM unlocking was always grayed out.
mustangtim49 said:
Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That has never happened on a VZ Pixel and it is not going to happen on this one. Why is this so hard for people to understand?
mustangtim49 said:
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information. If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point. I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry. your misinformed. Pixel devices from Verizon cannot have the bootloader unlocked. Period. end of story.
Have you ever had a Verizon device that was "carrier/sim unlocked" but couldn't unlock the bootloader? I have. and its real, so please research before you post misinformation.
mustangtim49 said:
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information. If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point. I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news because I didn't want to find this out for myself lol (but of course I really did), but I can tell everyone that I have the Verizon version and after 60..well a little after that because of course it was not as easy as their terms say on their website that it will automatically unlock after 60 days...yeah right..I had to call and chat I cant even tell you how many times...to finally get the right person to help me...which turned into waiting a few more days but he came through and unlocked it....
so the bad news: the oem unlock in developer options is still greyed out. Now it says to contact your carrier or connect to the internet
I still have hope for maybe one day? i mean there is ALWAYS a way to do anything on phones..someone smart enough just has to figure it out
mrindependent said:
Unfortunately, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news because I didn't want to find this out for myself lol (but of course I really did), but I can tell everyone that I have the Verizon version and after 60..well a little after that because of course it was not as easy as their terms say on their website that it will automatically unlock after 60 days...yeah right..I had to call and chat I cant even tell you how many times...to finally get the right person to help me...which turned into waiting a few more days but he came through and unlocked it....
so the bad news: the oem unlock in developer options is still greyed out. Now it says to contact your carrier or connect to the internet
I still have hope for maybe one day? i mean there is ALWAYS a way to do anything on phones..someone smart enough just has to figure it out
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was the same for the Verizon Pixel 2 XL, and every Verizon Pixel since. No unlockable bootloader unfortunately.
My first foray into rooting was with the Galaxy Nexus. That had no issues unlocking the bootloader, and was the last phone I've bought at a store.
It's sad, that I can bring my rooted device and get a new line, but I can't tinker with their versions if I were to buy one at a store, online, whatever.
Their loss imo as there are a number of us I think, who would buy at the store if we could unlock the bootloader. I guess we as a group aren't big enough for them to worry about though.
You can however, play musical SIM card between devices, and it works. For the most part anyways.
I hate this.
What do they think people are just going to accidentally stumble on this, mistakenly download specific apps and Roms and out of the blue, randomly, and incorrectly, flash a very specific file causing the phone to brick and they don't want to keep fixing it?
Cause those Muppets all have iPhones...
Beyond stupid.
And here I was, done with how Samsung limited this process, so I ditched it for the shiny new Pixel... I'm the Muppet
tmessy said:
And here I was, done with how Samsung limited this process, so I ditched it for the shiny new Pixel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Every Verizon variant of phones is locked down, and certainly, historically different models of them have been able to be either unlocked, or most of the time as far as I've experienced a workaround (security vulnerability) to unlocking was found (IIRC, the Stump method on LG phones worked this way), and the (again, as far as I'm aware) single time(s) that a Verizon phone was able to be bootloader unlocked as if it was made to be able to do so from the get-go, more or less: The Pixel 1 on Android 7.10 or below, and there is some foreign hacking method which can exploit some secret vulnerability if you're willing to pay to still be able to bootloader unlock the Pixel 1.
In my opinion, Samsung limits are even worse than the carrier-imposed limits, as Samsung keeps their phones from being bootloader unlocked on every U.S. Carrier, and even the direct from Samsung bought in the U.S. factory carrier unlocked model, but please correct me if I'm wrong. I only know the experience with the phones I've actually owned and what I remember from reading about others' experiences, however. The Exynos-based versions of Samsung phones are able to be bootloader unlocked at least in most countries, and again IIRC, some Snapdragon-based Samsungs in one or a few select countries too. Sony officially allows their bootloaders to be unlocked, but they purposefully and permanently gimp your phone's features if you do - and some other OEMs do similar, I'm given to understand.
I know it's frustrating about Verizon. Besides no longer buying carrier-specific models of phones, I no longer use Verizon as well, but it sucks for those who really need the carrier incentives.
roirraW edor ehT said:
Every Verizon variant of phones is locked down, and certainly, historically different models of them have been able to be either unlocked, or most of the time as far as I've experienced a workaround (security vulnerability) to unlocking was found (IIRC, the Stump method on LG phones worked this way), and the (again, as far as I'm aware) single time(s) that a Verizon phone was able to be bootloader unlocked as if it was made to be able to do so from the get-go, more or less: The Pixel 1 on Android 7.10 or below, and there is some foreign hacking method which can exploit some secret vulnerability if you're willing to pay to still be able to bootloader unlock the Pixel 1.
In my opinion, Samsung limits are even worse than the carrier-imposed limits, as Samsung keeps their phones from being bootloader unlocked on every U.S. Carrier, and even the direct from Samsung bought in the U.S. factory carrier unlocked model, but please correct me if I'm wrong. I only know the experience with the phones I've actually owned and what I remember from reading about others' experiences, however. The Exynos-based versions of Samsung phones are able to be bootloader unlocked at least in most countries, and again IIRC, some Snapdragon-based Samsungs in one or a few select countries too. Sony officially allows their bootloaders to be unlocked, but they purposefully and permanently gimp your phone's features if you do - and some other OEMs do similar, I'm given to understand.
I know it's frustrating about Verizon. Besides no longer buying carrier-specific models of phones, I no longer use Verizon as well, but it sucks for those who really need the carrier incentives.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NOt every verizon phone, The samsung s20 bootloader was able to be unlocked.
lucky_strike33 said:
NOt every verizon phone, The samsung s20 bootloader was able to be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As it came without some temporary trick or vulnerability someone was able to take advantage of?

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