I've got a Pixel 2 XL and I want to use it on a different network.
Is there any way to unlock the SIM on it without requesting it from the network provider?
Aren't all PIxel's SIM-unlocked?
danlat1415 said:
I've got a Pixel 2 XL and I want to use it on a different network.
Is there any way to unlock the SIM on it without requesting it from the network provider?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
rajeshr said:
Aren't all PIxel's SIM-unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This ^
I think they're all unlocked unless you get a Verizon version. Even then, I believe the Verizon version is unlocked, but a locked down boot loader, with a a few radios optimized for their network.
No, not all Pixels are unlocked.
In the UK, the provider EE (T-Mobile) I've found out that the Pixels are locked to EE for 2 years, when Google release and auto-unlock.
You can request EE unlock the phone, but only after 6 months of payments.
This is not the usual sim-lock, where you would type a code in, this appears to be server enforced rather than phone.
T-Mobile have many linked networks, when normally a locked phone would work on any linked network as long as it was same carrier. not in this case.
It will only work on EE.
Caution to anyone in the UK buying...
danlat1415 said:
I've got a Pixel 2 XL and I want to use it on a different network. Is there any way to unlock the SIM on it without requesting it from the network provider?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In general, you don't unlock the SIM card itself, the device needs to be carrier unlocked. As far as I know, all Pixels come carrier unlocked already. All you do is put a SIM in it from a different carrier. Have you already tried this? What carrier are you on now? Your location and carrier are not listed in your profile.... why not fill those in?
I'm in the UK. I'm currently on EE, but also have O2 and ID networks.
When I put a sim card in the phone that isn't EE, the phone loads fine, but then I get a message at the top that says;
"SIM card isn't supported - Ask EE UK whether this device can be unlocked. Tap here for contact details."
When I tap it, it takes me to EE's website.
This seems to be software related as I've not seen a phone do that before for a network lock.
I've just found this on EE's website;
New from October 2016 - Google SIM Lock
Some Android devices bought under a monthly contract directly from EE now feature Google SIM Lock which locks the device to the EE network for the length of the contract from the day of activation. This will only allow the device to work on the EE network.
If another network’s SIM is inserted into the device, it will display the message 'SIM card isn’t supported, ask EE if this device can be unlocked. Tap for contact details.'
I need to see if this can be unlocked.
It seems to only be UK EE network that does this.
It's called Google SIM Lock
It managed by Google
They apparently did it with the original Pixel as well.
Does anyone know how I can get round this or use a service to do it?
EE won't agree it until after 6 months.
danlat1415 said:
It seems to only be UK EE network that does this. It's called Google SIM Lock. It managed by Google. They apparently did it with the original Pixel as well.Does anyone know how I can get round this or use a service to do it? EE won't agree it until after 6 months.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
in sha allah, danlat! :laugh: Maybe you should be moaning with this lot over HERE. You knew full well what you were signing up to. Had you already entered your location *and* carrier into your profile, this would have taken a lot less time to suss out. Go ahead and whinge away... over there. Do your 6 months time and afterwards pay your £8.99 to unlock it. NEVER buy a carrier locked phone, ever.
v12xke said:
in sha allah, danlat! :laugh: Maybe you should be moaning with this lot over HERE. You knew full well what you were signing up to. Had you already entered your location *and* carrier into your profile, this would have taken a lot less time to suss out. Go ahead and whinge away... over there. Do your 6 months time and afterwards pay your £8.99 to unlock it. NEVER buy a carrier locked phone, ever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rude.
.
I have a Google pixel XL 2 & I was with Verizon, how would I unlock my phone
queen Jess said:
I have a Google pixel XL 2 & I was with Verizon, how would I unlock my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it's a true Google P2XL, and not the Verizon variant, you can follow the instructions in this guide if you want to unlock your bootloader and possibly root.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-2-xl/how-to/guide-unlock-flash-root-pixel-2-xl-t3702418
queen Jess said:
I have a Google pixel XL 2 & I was with Verizon, how would I unlock my phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is sim unlocked already, I'm using it with tmo right now. The bootloader is a different story.....
Hi, I have purchased Google Pixel 2 XL from eBay but it came with EE SIM Lock, my concern is this device can be bootloader locked? (still on android 8.1 Orei). I have seen there is a way to unlock the SIM Lock so that's not an issue
NingaR said:
Hi, I have purchased Google Pixel 2 XL from eBay but it came with EE SIM Lock, my concern is this device can be bootloader locked? (still on android 8.1 Orei). I have seen there is a way to unlock the SIM Lock so that's not an issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know the answer to your question but it won't be hard to find out. Enable developer options and look for the toggle to allow OEM unlocking. If it is greyed out or stuck in the off position, then you will not be able to unlock using fastboot. There are several guides on how to unlock and they all start with this step.
Badger50 said:
If it's a true Google P2XL, and not the Verizon variant, you can follow the instructions in this guide if you want to unlock your bootloader and possibly root.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-2-xl/how-to/guide-unlock-flash-root-pixel-2-xl-t3702418
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sorry! I bought a Pixel 2 XL with EE UK SIM Lock, I called EE UK and agreed to unlock it(waiting for the unlock) and paid the £8.99, my concern is, will it be able to unlock the bootloader after the SIM Lock is lifted?
---------- Post added at 12:24 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:23 PM ----------
v12xke said:
I don't know the answer to your question but it won't be hard to find out. Enable developer options and look for the toggle to allow OEM unlocking. If it is greyed out or stuck in the off position, then you will not be able to unlock using fastboot. There are several guides on how to unlock and they all start with this step.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, I'll wait for Google to unlock it and see for myself
NingaR said:
sorry! I bought a Pixel 2 XL with EE UK SIM Lock, I called EE UK and agreed to unlock it(waiting for the unlock) and paid the £8.99, my concern is, will it be able to unlock the bootloader after the SIM Lock is lifted?
---------- Post added at 12:24 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:23 PM ----------
thanks, I'll wait for Google to unlock it and see for myself
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have seen quite a few reports from EE phones that once they unlock the SIM you are also able to unlock the bootloader. So I am hopeful.
Google U locked the Device after 24hrs, and I was able to unlock the bootloader, seems like you can't with carrier lock but once its lifted the bootloader can be unlocked.
Thank you all.
Hey guys - I am looking at an ebay PIxel phone that is locked to EE ... the seller says that the phone is blacklisted in the UK ?
Does this mean that I could operate it in another country a.k.a unlock it myself?
Or I rather steer away from such phone as it's unlockable per se .. .?
wbgenetic said:
Hey guys - I am looking at an ebay PIxel phone that is locked to EE ... the seller says that the phone is blacklisted in the UK ?
Does this mean that I could operate it in another country a.k.a unlock it myself?
Or I rather steer away from such phone as it's unlockable per se .. .?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
to my knowledge in order for Google to unlock the device it needs nor to be blacklisted, why not ask the seller to call EE UK and have them ask Google to unlock the device? EE UK first needs to check if the device meets all the criteria to be unlocked.
I bought a Pixel 2 XL from AliExpress(advertised as unlocked) but was locked to EE UK the seller asked me to call EE UK and give them the IMEI Number and they unlocked the device for £8.99 in just 24hrs, so better be cautious as you won't be able to use the device if it's not locked.
Related
Hey guys, the only Pixel phones currently sim unlocked are the UK EE models, has anyone figured a way out to unlock these yet without waiting until contract expires or paying EE
There has been a solution, same as for Verizon bootloader's I believe. Have a look in skipsofts tool thread, you will find the link there ?
Or you can go here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/ee-uk-sim-unlock-t3490134
snowblind2142 said:
There has been a solution, same as for Verizon bootloader's I believe. Have a look in skipsofts tool thread, you will find the link there ��
Or you can go here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/ee-uk-sim-unlock-t3490134
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not talking about bootloader unlock mate, I'm talking about sim unlock, currently this phone will only accept EE/BT SIM cards.
That's really odd, I got mine on EE and it takes my three sim no problem.
Kombat wombat said:
That's really odd, I got mine on EE and it takes my three sim no problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just tried mine with an O2 sim and its says that its locked and I need to contact EE, also Google Pixel Sim Lock thats states they are the only network locking the phone right now.
nintendolinky said:
Just tried mine with an O2 sim and its says that its locked and I need to contact EE, also Google Pixel Sim Lock thats states they are the only network locking the phone right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure why that is or why it works I haven't tried any other sims other then three. U should be able to unlock the same way you do there mobile hotspots using the imei number and a code.
Kombat wombat said:
Not sure why that is or why it works I haven't tried any other sims other then three. U should be able to unlock the same way you do there mobile hotspots using the imei number and a code.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would be all well and good but this phone was bought on eBay and the seller won't respond to messages regarding sim unlocking :/
Kombat wombat said:
Not sure why that is or why it works I haven't tried any other sims other then three. U should be able to unlock the same way you do there mobile hotspots using the imei number and a code.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you unlocked your bootloader?
nintendolinky said:
Have you unlocked your bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bootloader is unlocked.
Kombat wombat said:
Bootloader is unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did your three SIM work before you unlocked. What's weird is it doesn't even ask for an unlock code, just to contact EE
nintendolinky said:
Not talking about bootloader unlock mate, I'm talking about sim unlock, currently this phone will only accept EE/BT SIM cards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My bad, miss read
@ your local phone so maybe?
normally to get the unlock code you have to request on the back of your contract, likely if you bought the phone second hand the seller didn't unlock it because EE makes you wait 6 months and has a £9 fee while still in contract.
so chances are there is no easy way to unlock the device (unlocking bootloader and rooting doesn't remove the sim lock they are both very different things) without paying EE or another firm who claim to be able to get the unlock codes but as far as that goes it's how much you are willing to trust such firms.
so in short if it is your phone and you are with EE, you need to have been a customer with EE 6 months (not sure if you can short cut this by getting it as an upgrade) have your bill in good standing and pay a £9 fee, then they will give you the unlock code. if you got the phone second hand I would imagine you're pretty stuck.
any updates regarding ee simlock unlock?
Hi .I got the same problem .got phone from ee and only ee sim working .all other sim cards its just says no sim card inside and after a while its says sim not supported or simthings ..n also not asking for any unlock code aswell .
Deleted - misunderstood.
carajp said:
You can buy unlocked from Carphone Warehouse - they're all unlocked. I'm pretty sure EE sells a sim free version too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, but mine is locked, sim locked bought from eBay so can go the EE route.
You can also use a Virgin sim card in the EE ones, I've just tried, and will use it temporarily until we have a Sim unlock.
any more on this?
EE
Called EE They refuse even to talk about unlocking b4 6 months
doesnt matter if u r on contract or PAYG
Any other suggestions?
have to unlock as going a broad soon
ac-milan said:
Called EE They refuse even to talk about unlocking b4 6 months
doesnt matter if u r on contract or PAYG
Any other suggestions?
have to unlock as going a broad soon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the online unlocking form by EE, doubt it will work.
Have to wait up to 10 days.
I just got a notification to say operator lock has been removed, which is weird because EE policy is it not do it till after 6 months. Anyone else in the UK get this?
yes I can confirm same here strange
That's a SIM unlock, it shouldn't have anything to do with the bootloader.
spotmark said:
That's a SIM unlock, it shouldn't have anything to do with the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has everything to do with it, once the sim unlock is sent to the phone it allows the OEM Unlocking to be toggled, otherwise it is greyed out..
exxpired said:
Has everything to do with it, once the sim unlock is sent to the phone it allows the OEM Unlocking to be toggled, otherwise it is greyed out..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting. It certainly doesn't work that way in the States with Verizon models.
exxpired said:
Has everything to do with it, once the sim unlock is sent to the phone it allows the OEM Unlocking to be toggled, otherwise it is greyed out..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would toggle the OEM unlock and unlock the bootloader asap! You may just save yourself waiting 6 months and paying 10 quid.
v12xke said:
I would toggle the OEM unlock and unlock the bootloader asap! You may just save yourself waiting 6 months and paying 10 quid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I should but I cant be bothered to wipe the phone haha, Tbh I had my Pixel 2 XL stock for a year (even had it unlocked after 6 months) and just didnt feel the need to root/unlock it.
I have toggled it though so see what happens
Did you guys do a specific action which you think might have triggered the unlock? I am asking because I have a Pixel 3 XL locked to EE which I need to unlock but don't really want to wait 6 months. Thank you.
I did nothing but get a message from EE stating it was now unlocked
koahhe said:
Did you guys do a specific action which you think might have triggered the unlock? I am asking because I have a Pixel 3 XL locked to EE which I need to unlock but don't really want to wait 6 months. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same as above, I just got a notification saying it was unlocked
the only reasons I can think of is A) i did complain alot about delays B) my previous phones I have paid to have unlocked but never left the network so they assume I maybe travel alot which i dont lol C) its christmas and they love me
The unlock has just coincided with my contract with EE coming to a close....
Mine came from EE with the sim lock off ....
I could toggle the bootloader and I've had an O2 sim working in there
i got mine from Verizon and was already unlocked i am running it on T-Mobile network
rinnycoop121 said:
i got mine from Verizon and was already unlocked i am running it on T-Mobile network
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are speaking of the Bootloader, not the carrier lock
mrmidnight said:
They are speaking of the Bootloader, not the carrier lock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually - carrier lock.
on non Verizon models (ie EE UK) Bootloader is locked DUE to the carrier (sim) lock
once the sim lock is gone, then the Bootloader lock is gone
y2grae said:
Actually - carrier lock.
on non Verizon models (ie EE UK) Bootloader is locked DUE to the carrier (sim) lock
once the sim lock is gone, then the Bootloader lock is gone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah I see, I had noticed that someone had mentioned the Bootloader and misunderstood that. Thabks
Ehi guys... Anyone know how to unlock a 3XL from sim lock? I want to buy a phone bought in London and sim locked by EE... It is used and bought in November 2018.
Any suggestions?
Thanks
TM
exxpired said:
I should but I cant be bothered to wipe the phone haha, Tbh I had my Pixel 2 XL stock for a year (even had it unlocked after 6 months) and just didnt feel the need to root/unlock it.
I have toggled it though so see what happens
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use the Google backup and it will restore everything you had setup your phone except for downloads
zampone87 said:
Ehi guys... Anyone know how to unlock a 3XL from sim lock? I want to buy a phone bought in London and sim locked by EE... It is used and bought in November 2018.
Any suggestions?
Thanks
TM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Third party "IMEI Unlocker", shouldn't be that expensive for Pixels.
So much I want to root my Pixel 3a but OEM unlocking is greyed out because it is carrier locked. I owe $250 to Sprint to pay it off. Would they allow it to be unlocked once it's payed? Or will I need to make up some excuse why I need it unlocked besides saying I want to root it?
Any help is appreciated, thanks
Gregbmil1 said:
So much I want to root my Pixel 3a but OEM unlocking is greyed out because it is carrier locked. I owe $250 to Sprint to pay it off. Would they allow it to be unlocked once it's payed? Or will I need to make up some excuse why I need it unlocked besides saying I want to root it?
Any help is appreciated, thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My friend, it's killing me too, thinking of starting a bounty to get a work around...I just got my phone and from what I gather, once it's paid off, they will carrier unlock it and that should allow the bootloader to be unlocked as well
Would anyone be willing to throw in on a bounty to get someone to unlock it?
BakedTator said:
My friend, it's killing me too, thinking of starting a bounty to get a work around...I just got my phone and from what I gather, once it's paid off, they will carrier unlock it and that should allow the bootloader to be unlocked as well
Would anyone be willing to throw in on a bounty to get someone to unlock it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I highly doubt sim unlocking a phone would allow the bootloader to be unlocked. For example the Verizon Pixel 2 XL is sim unlocked out of the box, but the bootloader to this day is locked.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 10:36 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:34 AM ----------
Gregbmil1 said:
So much I want to root my Pixel 3a but OEM unlocking is greyed out because it is carrier locked. I owe $250 to Sprint to pay it off. Would they allow it to be unlocked once it's payed? Or will I need to make up some excuse why I need it unlocked besides saying I want to root it?
Any help is appreciated, thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can always ask to have it sim unlocked before it is payed off. The longer you have had their service, the more likely they may be to unlock it. Once it is payed off, they should unlock it for you.
Once it is sim card unlocked, the bootloader unlock button will start working.
daniel4653 said:
I highly doubt sim unlocking a phone would allow the bootloader to be unlocked. For example the Verizon Pixel 2 XL is sim unlocked out of the box, but the bootloader to this day is locked.
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That because you have a Verizon phone. It's the only US carrier that bootlocks the Pixel phones.
You live in the Cleveland area(from your profile), so can you tell them you need a sim unlock because you got a job across the lake in Canada and want to use a Canadian carrier to cut down on costs - or even say your new(fake) employer has a work sim for you to use? It's a practical and believable excuse as people do commute across the border regularly for work.
& if the sim unlock gets you the OEM unlock option - BOOM: you're all set.
*It's just a little white lie to a giant corporation that lies to consumers all the time(sprint has the best service? my a**). You've got nothing to lose, so why not try?
Bob nesta said:
You live in the Cleveland area(from your profile), so can you tell them you need a sim unlock because you got a job across the lake in Canada and want to use a Canadian carrier to cut down on costs - or even say your new(fake) employer has a work sim for you to use? It's a practical and believable excuse as people do commute across the border regularly for work.
& if the sim unlock gets you the OEM unlock option - BOOM: you're all set.
*It's just a little white lie to a giant corporation that lies to consumers all the time(sprint has the best service? my a**). You've got nothing to lose, so why not try?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would saying I am going to visit Canada work?
Bob nesta said:
You live in the Cleveland area(from your profile), so can you tell them you need a sim unlock because you got a job across the lake in Canada and want to use a Canadian carrier to cut down on costs - or even say your new(fake) employer has a work sim for you to use? It's a practical and believable excuse as people do commute across the border regularly for work.
& if the sim unlock gets you the OEM unlock option - BOOM: you're all set.
*It's just a little white lie to a giant corporation that lies to consumers all the time(sprint has the best service? my a**). You've got nothing to lose, so why not try?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called and said I will be visiting Canada soon. Sprint said I will have no problems using my phone out there, lol. I will have roaming charges is all. Then he tried upgrading my plan, lol.
I'll say I'm going to Australia for a while. If that don't work I will straight up ask what's a guy gotta do to get that bootloader unlocked:laugh:. I'm worried that paying it off still won't unlock it
Gregbmil1 said:
I called and said I will be visiting Canada soon. Sprint said I will have no problems using my phone out there, lol. I will have roaming charges is all. Then he tried upgrading my plan, lol.
I'll say I'm going to Australia for a while. If that don't work I will straight up ask what's a guy gotta do to get that bootloader unlocked:laugh:. I'm worried that paying it off still won't unlock it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maaaan... I guess my little plan failed then. Sorry to hear that. But it was worth a shot.
And I'm curious about the unlock after you pay it off too, but I have heard in the past on some devices Sprint does give you OEM unlock once it's fully paid for. Verizon is the main carrier where you are stuck no matter what...paid off or not.
I wish the you best & hope you find a solution sooner rather than later.:fingers-crossed:
Bob nesta said:
Maaaan... I guess my little plan failed then. Sorry to hear that. But it was worth a shot.
And I'm curious about the unlock after you pay it off too, but I have heard in the past on some devices Sprint does give you OEM unlock once it's fully paid for. Verizon is the main carrier where you are stuck no matter what...paid off or not.
I wish the you best & hope you find a solution sooner rather than later.:fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I called and straight asked what I need to do to enable OEM unlocking. She said all I need to do is pay it off and it will be no problem no matter the reason I want it unlocked. Sadly I have to wait at least 2 weeks before I can do that
Gregbmil1 said:
I called and straight asked what I need to do to enable OEM unlocking. She said all I need to do is pay it off and it will be no problem no matter the reason I want it unlocked. Sadly I have to wait at least 2 weeks before I can do that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's been 2 weeks... any status update? I can't seem to find anyone who has actually gotten the sim unlock and the bootloader unlocked with it, all people saying that is how it is, but nobody saying they did it.
Thanks,
Strawboy said:
any status update? I can't seem to find anyone who has actually gotten the sim unlock and the bootloader unlocked with it, all people saying that is how it is, but nobody saying they did it.
Thanks,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what you mean. As long as we aren't talking about Verizon, there are plenty of people that have gotten their phones unlocked from the carriers and then had the bootloader unlock work. Google has simply tied the bootloader unlock to the SIM lock which makes sense because if you could bootloader unlock the phone, I'm sure there would be a way to SIM unlock it. There isn't anything special that Sprint needs to do other than SIM unlock the phone - the phone will automatically allow bootloader unlocking once the phone is SIM unlocked.
The Verizon models should be considered bootloader locked forever. There were some reports that people have been able to bootloader unlock the Verizon model, but I would chalk that up to early errors on Verizon's part vs a change in their company's policy.
If you are looking for a way to get Sprint to SIM unlock the phone, then that is another issue. Obviously the company policy is to only unlock phones that have been paid off unless there are special circumstance (ie you are traveling out of the country). I will say that calling the customer service line is the hardest method of getting a phone unlocked. The most success comes from people DM the carrier using Twitter. That must go into a different group and they seem to be much more likely to unlock a phone than the normal call center. But you are always at the mercy of the person handling the request because it is generally an exception to the rule.
sic0048 said:
Not sure what you mean. As long as we aren't talking about Verizon, there are plenty of people that have gotten their phones unlocked from the carriers and then had the bootloader unlock work. Google has simply tied the bootloader unlock to the SIM lock which makes sense because if you could bootloader unlock the phone, I'm sure there would be a way to SIM unlock it. There isn't anything special that Sprint needs to do other than SIM unlock the phone - the phone will automatically allow bootloader unlocking once the phone is SIM unlocked.
The Verizon models should be considered bootloader locked forever. There were some reports that people have been able to bootloader unlock the Verizon model, but I would chalk that up to early errors on Verizon's part vs a change in their company's policy.
If you are looking for a way to get Sprint to SIM unlock the phone, then that is another issue. Obviously the company policy is to only unlock phones that have been paid off unless there are special circumstance (ie you are traveling out of the country). I will say that calling the customer service line is the hardest method of getting a phone unlocked. The most success comes from people DM the carrier using Twitter. That must go into a different group and they seem to be much more likely to unlock a phone than the normal call center. But you are always at the mercy of the person handling the request because it is generally an exception to the rule.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sic,
Wow, this is fantastic, and exactly what I was looking for. I've been hesitant to pull the trigger on buying a 'sprint locked' Pixel 3 XL because I haven't seen anybody who has actually said "Yes, I've done this." Only folks who said stuff like you, but I think I'm gonna go for it. I'm very confident of getting sprint to SIM unlock it.
Thanks again for your help.
Couldn't you just buy a sim unlock code from a service other than your carrier, unlock it and problem solved??
It appears that my Pixel 3a XL, bought from Google, is now locked after using a Verizon SIM. Has this happened to anyone else? Is there a way around this? The OEM bootloader is now grayed out and nothing I've seen posted to unlock the phone works.
I thought that if you bought the phone from Google, it wasn't supposed to be locked - little did I know.
If anyone knows of a way to unlock the bootloader so I can root the phone, please let me know.
THanks!
Sry brother Verizon won the rights in court to lock phones to it's network for 90 days. Only thing u can do is call and ask them to unlock it if u get someone nice enuff they might. Other than that ur stuck for 90 days unless u default on a bill for Verizon then it's forever.
Mech8 said:
Sry brother Verizon won the rights in court to lock phones to it's network for 90 days. Only thing u can do is call and ask them to unlock it if u get someone nice enuff they might. Other than that ur stuck for 90 days unless u default on a bill for Verizon then it's forever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He's referring to the bootloader being locked, not carrier locked.
spotmark said:
He's referring to the bootloader being locked, not carrier locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes sir unfortunately when Verizon locks your phone they lock your bootloader also
Mech8 said:
Yes sir unfortunately when Verizon locks your phone they lock your bootloader also
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine didn't lock when I put my Verizon SIM in it.
spotmark said:
Mine didn't lock when I put my Verizon SIM in it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's awesome I don't know how you did it I had a pixel 3XL, a pixel 3 and a Pixel 3A and once added to account and SIM inserted all bootloaders locked. Or maybe it has something to do with additional lines or adding lines I don't know. But thanks for letting me know.
Is there any fix to this. I'm experiencing same issue
ookami007 said:
It appears that my Pixel 3a XL, bought from Google, is now locked after using a Verizon SIM. Has this happened to anyone else? Is there a way around this? The OEM bootloader is now grayed out and nothing I've seen posted to unlock the phone works.
I thought that if you bought the phone from Google, it wasn't supposed to be locked - little did I know.
If anyone knows of a way to unlock the bootloader so I can root the phone, please let me know.
THanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You did not state which model number you bought from Google. Just because you bought it from the Google store does not mean it comes unlocked. There are at least two variants of the 3a XL in the US. If you purchased the Verizon variant it will be bootloader locked. If you bought the Google unlocked version (clearly marked on the purchase page) you will easily be able to unlock the bootloader. In fastboot mode go to "Barcodes" and report the first few digits of your IMEI (MEID), your SKU and your Serial number. If confirm for yourself that did purchase a Google unlocked version, do a factory reset and try a SIM from another carrier upon first boot. Go into dev settings and the toggle for OEM unlock should be available. Note: this should not be necessary because once your device "phones home" (even with your Verizon SIM) and checks your IMEI against a whitelist (finding Google unlocked device) your OEM toggle should be available. More than likely you were sent a Verizon variant. In this case check your receipt. It's within the realm of possibility they made a mistake and sent you the wrong variant. It's happened before.
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?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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.
Click to expand...
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?