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Flash Google store Pixel image over Verizon Pixel phone???

Hey guys, I'm wondering if anyone has done this, or knows if it's possible to (after unlocking bootloader) flash the Google stock Pixel system image instead of the Verizon one? I'm assuming the hardware and firmware are identical, but am not sure and am not skilled enough (or at all) in code to know if its possible. I bought my phone through Verizon, only because nowhere else had stock. I use it on T-Mobile, but fear there may be some behind the scenes Verizon stuff going on that may hinder my phone on T-Mobile. I haven't experienced any issues yet, but with the Nov security update mentioning a specific fix for wifi calling in New Mexico only on the Verizon pixels, it makes me weary that there is more happening beneath the surface than I am aware of. Thanks for any and all help! Appreciate it.

newbienic said:
Hey guys, I'm wondering if anyone has done this, or knows if it's possible to (after unlocking bootloader) flash the Google stock Pixel system image instead of the Verizon one? I'm assuming the hardware and firmware are identical, but am not sure and am not skilled enough (or at all) in code to know if its possible. I bought my phone through Verizon, only because nowhere else had stock. I use it on T-Mobile, but fear there may be some behind the scenes Verizon stuff going on that may hinder my phone on T-Mobile. I haven't experienced any issues yet, but with the Nov security update mentioning a specific fix for wifi calling in New Mexico only on the Verizon pixels, it makes me weary that there is more happening beneath the surface than I am aware of. Thanks for any and all help! Appreciate it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did yesterday, bought mine from Best Buy and I unlock the BL. Sideload the OTA yesterday and I used NDE63V that comes with new radio. oh I'm also on Tmobile

jay661972 said:
I did yesterday, bought mine from Best Buy and I unlock the BL. Sideload the OTA yesterday and I used NDE63V that comes with new radio. oh I'm also on Tmobile
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Click to collapse
Awesome! Thanks for the info... Really glad to know I can convert if need be. Thanks again!

jay661972 said:
I did yesterday, bought mine from Best Buy and I unlock the BL. Sideload the OTA yesterday and I used NDE63V that comes with new radio. oh I'm also on Tmobile
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting side note on this...
I went ahead and unlocked my bootloader and flashed Google's stock Pixel image. All went well, no problems... Until I tried to use Android Pay. It's telling me my software can't be verified. And I out of curiosity checked, and the "allow OEM unlocking" in developer options is still greyed out, and not selectable, even though my BL is unlocked. Hoping this doesn't mean that we can't take an OTA. Weird, I guess we'll have to wait and see when next month's security update comes out...

newbienic said:
Interesting side note on this...
I went ahead and unlocked my bootloader and flashed Google's stock Pixel image. All went well, no problems... Until I tried to use Android Pay. It's telling me my software can't be verified. And I out of curiosity checked, and the "allow OEM unlocking" in developer options is still greyed out, and not selectable, even though my BL is unlocked. Hoping this doesn't mean that we can't take an OTA. Weird, I guess we'll have to wait and see when next month's security update comes out...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just having an unlocked bootloader trips SafetyNet now and you can't use Android Pay without a custom kernel.

ITGuy11 said:
Just having an unlocked bootloader trips SafetyNet now and you can't use Android Pay without a custom kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And the OEM unlock option appears to be dependent on device ID (imeid? Ccid?), And not the software. So don't relock it, and you're fine
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

danaff37 said:
And the OEM unlock option appears to be dependent on device ID (imeid? Ccid?), And not the software. So don't relock it, and you're fine
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One thing I just realized, is in Developer Options, its greyed out like I mentioned, but also says "Bootloader is already unlocked". Which I actually remember seeing on my Nexus 5x when the bootloader was unlocked. It's got me really curious about re locking the bootloader. Mainly cause I actually use Android Pay. Had no idea bootloader unlocks are actually tripping safety net now. Major bummer. If anyone has gone through this process with a Verizon pixel and has actually relocked their bootloader with no issues I'd certainly appreciate any info you have. Otherwise, I may have to dive in blind and hope for the best.

If you want to use Android pay, flash a custom kernel but don't root. Works for me.
Don't relock if you ever want to have it rooted, custom, etc. The unlock method isn't going to survive another security update.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

danaff37 said:
If you want to use Android pay, flash a custom kernel but don't root. Works for me.
Don't relock if you ever want to have it rooted, custom, etc. The unlock method isn't going to survive another security update.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hypathetically, if I didn't want root or anything custom at all, do you think that relocking the bootloader could cause an issue while using the Stock Google image on a Verizon Pixel? I wish I had more knowledge on this, but I'm pretty in the dark on this stuff as of late... Thanks for your help!

Should be fine if all stock I think, just know that you may not be able to unlock later.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

newbienic said:
One thing I just realized, is in Developer Options, its greyed out like I mentioned, but also says "Bootloader is already unlocked". Which I actually remember seeing on my Nexus 5x when the bootloader was unlocked. It's got me really curious about re locking the bootloader. Mainly cause I actually use Android Pay. Had no idea bootloader unlocks are actually tripping safety net now. Major bummer. If anyone has gone through this process with a Verizon pixel and has actually relocked their bootloader with no issues I'd certainly appreciate any info you have. Otherwise, I may have to dive in blind and hope for the best.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Contrary to what people are saying. You CAN relock your bootloader and then unlock it again later. However, keep in mind that at some point there will likely be an update that blocks the use of dePixel8 and you will no longer be able to unlock the bootloader unless someone writes another exploit.
I would like to find a way to permanently unlock VZW Pixels but until I get one from the Google Store to compare with my Verizon one I don't think I will make much progress.
Relocking your bootloader is as simple as running the "fastboot oem lock" command from the terminal window.
Lastly. If you want to relock the bootloader, make sure your phone is 100% stock image or you risk bricking the phone

If I were to buy the Verizon pixel and flash the unlocked (non European) image. How do you think updates would work? Would I get seamless updates from Google or would I need to flash every Ota manually. Might be too early to tell

b316kane said:
If I were to buy the Verizon pixel and flash the unlocked (non European) image. How do you think updates would work? Would I get seamless updates from Google or would I need to flash every Ota manually. Might be too early to tell
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is exactly what I did, and I am curious as well... We'll see next month I guess, but I'm guessing it will take the OTA just fine. My wife has a Pixel from the Google store, and mine is from Verizon. I've compared everything (including booloaders) since flashing the Google store Pixel image, and every informational detail is identical. Not sure if there is some other place hidden to me that might indicate a difference, but I'm thinking that Verizon's Pixel is only different in its official software image... And, that may be it. Please don't take my word for it, I'm no developer, and know very little about any of this, but in my comparisons, they are identical now since flashing Googles official (Non Verizon, Non European) image.
Sidenote, I have yet to try this, but I'm thinking that since I am on Googles image, that if I re-lock my bootloader, that I WILL be able to unlock again after locking. I think Verizon used Googles "Allow OEM Unlocking" software toggle in developer options as the only method to actually keep people from unlocking the bootloader (again speculative), and now that I'm on Googles image, that software "block" should no longer be present, so I should in theory, be free to lock/unlock the same as Pixels purchased from the Google store... Again, I've got no proof, or actual skill to back this up, but it's a theory I have, and if I end up locking my BL again, I'll post what I find...

newbienic said:
I have yet to try this, but I'm thinking that since I am on Googles image, that if I re-lock my bootloader, that I WILL be able to unlock again after locking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the Verizon unlocking threads the people that tried relocking reported that they were unable to unlock again without depixel8, which is the same as how the Verizon phone typically works. Some people seem to have gotten into situations that could have been corrected with an unlocked bootloader, but because they had a locked bootloader that couldn't be unlocked using depixel8 they had no easy solution to get their phone working again at this time.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/psa-read-relocking-bootloader-t3494615

alluringreality said:
In the Verizon unlocking threads the people that tried relocking reported that they were unable to unlock again without depixel8, which is the same as how the Verizon phone typically works. Some people seem to have gotten into situations that could have been corrected with an unlocked bootloader, but because they had a locked bootloader that couldn't be unlocked using depixel8 they had no easy solution to get their phone working again at this time.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/psa-read-relocking-bootloader-t3494615
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the heads up!!! Like I said, I really know nothing, just speculating. Appreciate you looking out.

newbienic said:
Thanks for the heads up!!! Like I said, I really know nothing, just speculating. Appreciate you looking out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I forget where, but I saw written or implied that the "checking for updates" screen about third of way through initial setup of first boot uses WiFi AND sim carrier data to install Verizon custom restrictions and settings that among other effects make depixel8 required.
Even on "non Verizon phones" (which you are saying use the same build images byte to byte?)... You have to either use a SIM card or wifi and google account to allow the developer options to enable OEM unlock.
My theory: In other words, if you don't allow via SIM and a network wifi or data connect, for Verizon to mark your phone, or another carrier, then the phone can not be unlocked. So carrier models may indeed be differentiated from current factory images AFTER boot and setup.
There is a post in Q&A of someone trying to unlock bootloader without loading into the device, not having luck. This is why oem unlock toggle is so important and why people are bricking from locked bootloaders that won't unlock (so no wipe and factory images cannot be flashed.)
Another thing to consider: SIM network lock will not be flashed over.
Sent from my sailfish using XDA Labs

Response from Nokia on unlocking bootloader

I can't say I am surprised, but I thought I'd ask and see what they say. Here's an email and the response I received.
Me:
Hello, Before I order the 8, I'd like to know if you provide the means / process to unlock the bootloader for your devices. I typically run stock Android, which I know you provide, but occasionally like to run custom ROM's as well. An unlocked bootloader will allow flexibility, and providing the ability to unlock will gain you a following in the modding community. Thanks!
Nokia:
Regarding your inquiry about the bootloader unlock for the Nokia 8, please be informed that we may not provide this information.
Additionally, please note that unlocking the bootloader for the device will void the warranty and we therefore do not recommend it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us again.
Best regards,
Nokia Mobile Care team
Now, I am really having a hard time coming up with a NEED for the bootloader to be unlocked... unless I need it to flash another region to add bands that aren't available on my device... maybe?

lorditler said:
If you want to root it, duuuh. Like installing SuperSU, dude. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, the question specifically was not about root, but about unlocking the bootloader, which entirely different... dude.:silly:

This is so God damn bad news!
Really thinking about selling this phone right now...

Alttu said:
This is so God damn bad news!
Really thinking about selling this phone right now...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wouldn't jump ship yet. Fact is, it still may be very easy to unlock the bootloader and gain root, as the device is runing bone stock Android. Frankly, there is not much left that I need root for.
For me, however, the 8 presents a specific problem. I live in the US, and the bands that are listed as supported are missing some LTE bands I really need (12 specifically). I am aware that there are ways to enable available bands for some devices, but I think you NEED an unlocked bl to get that done.
Thats likely a deal breaker for me. :crying:

charlatan01 said:
I wouldn't jump ship yet. Fact is, it still may be very easy to unlock the bootloader and gain root, as the device is runing bone stock Android. Frankly, there is not much left that I need root for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well we will see about that...
Thanks for reassuring!

Just taught to have a little chat with support too...

Maybe there's still a way to flash TWRP without unlocking the bootloader. They did it for example on the Nokia 6 by booting into what they call 9008 port mode (EDL in other words) and flashed the recovery with a tool named MiFlash in that mode. (Link to Nokia 6 thread)

Alttu said:
Just taught to have a little chat with support too...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is simply ridiculous and not treating the customers serious enough.

Hi all,
i found an option in Developer Options -> OEM unlocking ->allow the bootloader to be unlocked.
To get developer options tap 8 times "Build number" in About Phone section of settings.
I hope this is the right way for unlocking bootloader.
Daniel

Orca74 said:
Hi all,
i found an option in Developer Options -> OEM unlocking ->allow the bootloader to be unlocked.
To get developer options tap 8 times "Build number" in About Phone section of settings.
I hope this is the right way for unlocking bootloader.
Daniel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We already know that. Enabling that setting doesn't do anything.

anyone tried unlocking bootloader via fastboot?
before i get flamed for being a noob, yes i know you need to enter a code or something to unlock bootloaders unlike pixel/google phones.
no harm trying right?

Hmm. I know some devices in my past have not required an unlocked bootloader to allow root, but I'm not savvy enougb to figure out if its possible on this device.

And rooting will NOT void warranty in EU.
http://matija.suklje.name/rooting-and-flashing-your-device-does-not-void-the-warranty-in-eu
Hasn't a case like this have already been handled by a court. Consumer was right.

frostmore said:
anyone tried unlocking bootloader via fastboot?
before i get flamed for being a noob, yes i know you need to enter a code or something to unlock bootloaders unlike pixel/google phones.
no harm trying right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could only get the 8 into Download mode and could not install it as a FastBoot device.

Sure sucks that they seemingly won't allow this. I was interested in a Nokia phone as well. HMD have even said they want their phones to be like the new Nexus. They really need to support the custom ROM community if so!

Ok so, I can get the device to boot into bootloader(download mode) and somekind of a recovery, trough ADB in windows.
But no luck on "fastboot oem unlock" command. --FAILED <remote : flashing unlock is not allowed

Orca74 said:
Hi all,
i found an option in Developer Options -> OEM unlocking ->allow the bootloader to be unlocked.
To get developer options tap 8 times "Build number" in About Phone section of settings.
I hope this is the right way for unlocking bootloader.
Daniel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Daniel,
Does unlocking bootloader violates the guarantee/warranty?
I just purchased Nokia 8 5 days ago.
Thanks.

TorpodeBaas said:
Hi Daniel,
Does unlocking bootloader violates the guarantee/warranty?
I just purchased Nokia 8 5 days ago.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are in the EU, no unlocking the bootloader does not void your warranty. It's protect under EU laws. Someone mentioned that in earlier posts. Unless you are in asia or some other parts of the world where they screw consumers in favor of big businesses.
and if you had read through, there is currently no way to unlock the bootloader on the nokia 8. If there was a way and devs are willing to move over to this beautiful device, i'd get it in a heartbeat.

frostmore said:
If you are in the EU, no unlocking the bootloader does not void your warranty. It's protect under EU laws. Someone mentioned that in earlier posts. Unless you are in asia or some other parts of the world where they screw consumers in favor of big businesses.
and if you had read through, there is currently no way to unlock the bootloader on the nokia 8. If there was a way and devs are willing to move over to this beautiful device, i'd get it in a heartbeat.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hehe, i like the way you articulated the answer.
Thank you.
I miss FM radio now, i guess have to do something about it

Ok it seems With luck Nokia opens the bootloader after the **** storm...
Gesendet von meinem HTC 10 mit Tapatalk

Buying Verizon Pixel, have some questions

Hello guys.
I'm going to buy used and bootloader unlocked Verizon Pixel tomorrow and I'm interested in couple of things:
1. Can I flash all the ROMs that are available for Pixel on Verizon version too?
2. Can I properly install TWRP, root using Magisk, etc?
3. Can I properly flash (and downgrade if needed) official system images (and are they ever available for Verizon models?)
4. Can I take part in Android Beta program?
5. Is there anything I should be afraid of?
Thanks in advance.

Make sure it is bootloader unlocked, and not just SIM unlocked. There are not many VZ ones around that are bootloader unlocked. You need that to do the items on you list.

TonikJDK said:
Make sure it is bootloader unlocked, and not just SIM unlocked. There are not many VZ ones around that area bootloader unlocked. You need that to do the items on you list.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I already stated, bootloader is already unlocked.

No one has an answer?

If it's bootloader u locked then yeah u can do all those things. Just do not ever for any reason ever relock the bootloader. Also I believe there have been a few cases where ppl have had semibricks or other issues which required locked stock to fix or somehow resulted in locked stock

I got a replacement about a month ago on my small Pixel and that one was unlocked. However, the one I got from Verizon in store did not have an unlocked bootloader. I'm not sure what the deal is, but maybe getting a replacement from an "accidental" break might do the trick. just to clarify, my first Pixels' usb port got completely fried and started to smell bad whenever it charged, and the phone would get really hot. I am now on 8.1 with an unlocked bootloader but have yet to actually root the phone

KittyRgnarok said:
If it's bootloader u locked then yeah u can do all those things. Just do not ever for any reason ever relock the bootloader. Also I believe there have been a few cases where ppl have had semibricks or other issues which required locked stock to fix or somehow resulted in locked stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!

gb_14 said:
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Np

Can I unlock a previously unlocked bootloader?

I had my bootloader unlocked since the pixel came out, and just recently re-locked it through SkipSoft Android ToolKit. I needed to use the Android Pay and didn't have the time to figure out and install Magdisk. I had foolishly assumed that since it was already unlocked that I could easily unlock it again. I was wrong lol. I tried several times in the toolkit with no success.
Is there any hope for this pixel?

wheelbarrel said:
I had my bootloader unlocked since the pixel came out, and just recently re-locked it through SkipSoft Android ToolKit. I needed to use the Android Pay and didn't have the time to figure out and install Magdisk. I had foolishly assumed that since it was already unlocked that I could easily unlock it again. I was wrong lol. I tried several times in the toolkit with no success.
Is there any hope for this pixel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it's a Verizon one probably not. If it's a Google store pixel, Yes just unlock it again. It will wipe again.

Why did you relock it in the first place

KittyRgnarok said:
Why did you relock it in the first place
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I needed to use Android Pay, the Tap 'n Go feature. I didnt have time to figure out how to hide root so the app would work. I just thought since it was already unlocked it could easily unlock. I guess I am staying stock lol
And it was purchased through verizon but is now on T-Mobile.

wheelbarrel said:
I needed to use Android Pay, the Tap 'n Go feature. I didnt have time to figure out how to hide root so the app would work. I just thought since it was already unlocked it could easily unlock. I guess I am staying stock lol
And it was purchased through verizon but is now on T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Magisk very easily fixes Android pay not working with an unlocked phone. There are like 3 different threads specifically saying hey there is no real reason to ever relock this phone and if you do to be extremely careful
---------- Post added at 06:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:45 PM ----------
Also you purchased it through Verizon so no it isn't easy to reunlock. You will be stuck with the locked bootloader for the foreseeable future. For future reference do not ever buy a phone you intend to mod from Verizon or AT&T

KittyRgnarok said:
Magisk very easily fixes Android pay not working with an unlocked phone. There are like 3 different threads specifically saying hey there is no real reason to ever relock this phone and if you do to be extremely careful
---------- Post added at 06:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:45 PM ----------
Also you purchased it through Verizon so no it isn't easy to reunlock. You will be stuck with the locked bootloader for the foreseeable future. For future reference do not ever buy a phone you intend to mod from Verizon or AT&T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, it does appear that you'll be stuck with a locked bootloader on the Verizon branded phone. I believe that BigRed is using the IMEI number so regardless of SIM, the 'mothership' sends out the command to lock it down. However, I would be interested to see what would happen if you send the OEM Unlock command.
And as far as saying that "do not ever buy a phone you intend to mode frrom VZW or AT&T" not sure I agree entirely...but certainly have to know the risks and limitations, especially if exploits are found. That's one of the reasons I don't use automated kits. I need to know exactly what's happening and commands being sent to my VZW phones. I've been on Verizon and AT&T for quite some time. However, I always find a phone that has an exploit for root. Good luck!

b00ster23 said:
Yeah, it does appear that you'll be stuck with a locked bootloader on the Verizon branded phone. I believe that BigRed is using the IMEI number so regardless of SIM, the 'mothership' sends out the command to lock it down. However, I would be interested to see what would happen if you send the OEM Unlock command.
And as far as saying that "do not ever buy a phone you intend to mode frrom VZW or AT&T" not sure I agree entirely...but certainly have to know the risks and limitations, especially if exploits are found. That's one of the reasons I don't use automated kits. I need to know exactly what's happening and commands being sent to my VZW phones. I've been on Verizon and AT&T for quite some time. However, I always find a phone that has an exploit for root. Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Using them as a carrier is (almost) fine, but it shouldn't be necessary to use an exploit to unlock your phone and they do shady custom bootloader **** on almost all of their phones

KittyRgnarok said:
Using them as a carrier is (almost) fine, but it shouldn't be necessary to use an exploit to unlock your phone and they do shady custom bootloader **** on almost all of their phones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup... agreed. Shouldn't be necessary, but unfortunately the law is in their side. They lock bootloaders to offset reduced hardware pricing, in an effort to cut support cost and limiting possible bricked phones. Trust me don't like it, but if I can get a significantly reduced cost on the phone, and have full admin rights....uhhhh thank u...

b00ster23 said:
Yup... agreed. Shouldn't be necessary, but unfortunately the law is in their side. They lock bootloaders to offset reduced hardware pricing, in an effort to cut support cost and limiting possible bricked phones. Trust me don't like it, but if I can get a significantly reduced cost on the phone, and have full admin rights....uhhhh thank u...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tru Tru

wheelbarrel said:
I needed to use Android Pay, the Tap 'n Go feature. I didnt have time to figure out how to hide root so the app would work. I just thought since it was already unlocked it could easily unlock. I guess I am staying stock lol
And it was purchased through verizon but is now on T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My pixel passed safety net without any issues with an unlocked bootloader running a custom kernel without root. I don't think safety net checks the bootloader (could be wrong)

Poebat said:
My pixel passed safety net without any issues with an unlocked bootloader running a custom kernel without root. I don't think safety net checks the bootloader (could be wrong)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes Safety Net does check the BL. The reason yours passes is because of the custom kernel. I seen a post for an 'almost' stock kernel for the PIXEL2 that passes SN, without root if that's all u need. The kernel has a patch for only the Safety Net. But again that's the PIXEL2

b00ster23 said:
Yes Safety Net does check the BL. The reason yours passes is because of the custom kernel. I seen a post for an 'almost' stock kernel for the PIXEL2 that passes SN, without root if that's all u need. The kernel has a patch for only the Safety Net. But again that's the PIXEL2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah. I figured that might be the case.

b00ster23 said:
Yes Safety Net does check the BL. The reason yours passes is because of the custom kernel. I seen a post for an 'almost' stock kernel for the PIXEL2 that passes SN, without root if that's all u need. The kernel has a patch for only the Safety Net. But again that's the PIXEL2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mean almost every custom kernel for pixel og has proper safety net support

I appreciate all your input everyone! Unfortunately I am going to have to wait until it's time to buy a Pixel 2 lol, which is getting close
This is proof you should read EVERYTHING first lol

Question Z Flip 4 Canada version SM-721W OEM unlocking N/A

Hello!
just got my samsung z flip 4 today and was woundering if this phone is rootable yet. I have the canadian version with Telus SM-721W.
Im looking to root the phone but i am not able to find the OEM unlocking on the Dev. Page
Any info would help!
Thanks

Lunancio said:
Hello!
just got my samsung z flip 4 today and was woundering if this phone is rootable yet. I have the canadian version with Telus SM-721W.
Im looking to root the phone but i am not able to find the OEM unlocking on the Dev. Page
Any info would help!
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OEM unlocking is not possible on US or Canada variants

SandFromUndertal said:
OEM unlocking is not possible on US or Canada variants
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will they ever be available to OEM unlock?

Lunancio said:
Will they ever be available to OEM unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sadly no, they never will. And I feel your pain. I had a Note 10+ that I would have abused the **** out of if it had an unlockable bootloader.

SandFromUndertal said:
Sadly no, they never will. And I feel your pain. I had a Note 10+ that I would have abused the **** out of if it had an unlockable bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since when did they decide to do this?

Lunancio said:
Will they ever be available to OEM unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I came across a defcon presentation called,
"Breaking the Android Bootloader on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660".
It would appear that it is certainly possible to bypass a locked bootloader, Two interesting methods that were mentioned,
"The most commonly used approach is to access Qualcomm Emergency Download mode. This is a low-level emergency state boot mode, where diagnostics tools can be used to upload a signed “loader” payload to the chip, which can be used to modify the device’s partitions directly. While this approach is effective, it requires the ability to boot into the mode, which is not always made directly available to users, and access to a signed loader ELF which may not be available for the device.
The second common approach is to attack the device at a hardware level. By disassembling the phone, and connecting to EMMC chip on the board, it is possible to set the “unlock” bit in the configuration partition and gain unlocked access. Public resources exist which outline which pins should be connected to, however this usually requires some hardware knowledge and steady hands. There is also a high risk of irreparably damaging the device."
The rest of the presentation explains how the bootloader lock was bypassed via an exploit.
Ive also heard that exploiting flaws in Qualcomm's chips has become a common way to root bootloader locked devices, If root is all your after.

Lunancio said:
Since when did they decide to do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the Galaxy S7. Was able to unlock the bootloader of my Galaxy Note 5, then I looked up info on unlocking the bpooader of the Galaxy S7 and people on the forum for the devi e were saying that it is not possible.
P.S. Sorry for like the month late respone