Unlock & Root Verizon Pixel? - Google Pixel Questions & Answers

I've been browsing the forum for a couple of days now and don't seem to be able to find clear answers to my questions.
1) Can the Pixel from Verizon be unlocked? Can it be rooted? If so, is there a current guide to the process?
2) Most of the threads I've looked at talk about the Pixel XL. Is this information valid for the regular Pixel?
3) I am completely baffled by the discussions about dual slots. What is this in reference to?
I'm not an Android expert by any means and have very little experience at rooting. I've only done it once before on an HTC Incredible years ago.
My thanks in advance for any answers and advice.
~ Phil

If your Verizon Pixel (or Pixel XL, same difference) is on Android 7.11 or later, then no, and will likely will never be possible. If you're on 7.0 and maybe 7.10 - not positive, I don't remember - then use the free DePixel8. Google it and you'll find it. Don't bother trying it on 7.1.1.

PKW57 said:
I've been browsing the forum for a couple of days now and don't seem to be able to find clear answers to my questions.
1) Can the Pixel from Verizon be unlocked? Can it be rooted? If so, is there a current guide to the process?
2) Most of the threads I've looked at talk about the Pixel XL. Is this information valid for the regular Pixel?
3) I am completely baffled by the discussions about dual slots. What is this in reference to?
I'm not an Android expert by any means and have very little experience at rooting. I've only done it once before on an HTC Incredible years ago.
My thanks in advance for any answers and advice.
~ Phil
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.If you want an Unlocked bootloader
a. buy from Google Play Store
b. buy from Google Fi
c. buy used with unlocked bootloader from swappa, ebay...
2. the devices are basically the same, as far as what can and cannot be done
3. Pixels have 2 system partitions (slot a, slot b) , as a failsafe.
Installation of OTA updates, occasionally end up failing, for various reasons.
Pixel updates are installed on the inactive system partition, when installation is done, inactive partition is marked as active, device reboots, if for some reason system fails to boot new firmware, old firmware is booted as though nothing was installed
(this may not be exactly how it works, but basically it is)
Sent from my XT1254 using XDA Labs

Related

How to unlock bootloader on pixel XL 7.1.1 build NMF260 from Google store

I just got a replacement phone from Google directly and it has 7.1..1 build nmf260 on it. I am on Verizon however I need to know how to unlock the bootloader, install root, and bypass the wireless tether check from Verizon. I would say I should be able to unlock my bootloader since this came directly from Google just need to k ow how? Any help would be much appreciated.
This information is in many threads in these sections. Nothing has changed since the Pixel came out, so there's no information specific to non-Verizon Pixels on NMF260 or even the most recent update NMF26U or NMF26V. If you type "unlock" into the "Search this forum" box at the top right corner in this Q&A section, you should find what you're looking for. There are also SuperSU and TWRP threads in the Development section which I know the question has been asked and answered in.
shildebr said:
I just got a replacement phone from Google directly and it has 7.1..1 build nmf260 on it. I am on Verizon however I need to know how to unlock the bootloader, install root, and bypass the wireless tether check from Verizon. I would say I should be able to unlock my bootloader since this came directly from Google just need to k ow how? Any help would be much appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not usually one of those people to bug people about searching but this is literally everywhere. A simple google search of "how to unlock google pixel bootloader" will give you tons of results. For rooting. Start reading the SU thread. Very easy to root just keep In mind you need SU 2.79 SR 2 and TWRP RC1
There is aa ton of information of google on how to unlock the bootloader for a google pixel, yes, but for 7.1! dePixel8 was patched out in 7.1.1 and google offers no help of unlocking the bootloader for 7.1.1 which is what the OP is asking!
noggin182 said:
There is aa ton of information of google on how to unlock the bootloader for a google pixel, yes, but for 7.1! dePixel8 was patched out in 7.1.1 and google offers no help of unlocking the bootloader for 7.1.1 which is what the OP is asking!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He got a replacement from Google. So it is a Google phone almost certainly.

T-Mobile 7 Pro converted to international; Couple root/bootloader questions.

Today I received a T-Mobile, SIM unlocked, OnePlus 7Pro GM1915.
I have already followed the steps to flash international firmware and that went fine. Only issue I had was my SIM was being detected but no service, an OTA update to 10.0.3 fixed that issue. I haven't had a phone with root access/unlocked bootloader since my 1st gen Moto X so excuse my ignorance if some of these question are common sense, but I've done some searching online and can't find any straight forward answers.
1. Now that I have installed the international firmware I don't need to get a bootloader unlock from T-Mobile, correct? I can just use the OEM unlock option and unlock via fastboot?
2. I know bootloader/root can sometimes cause certain applications to not function, but I've also read Magisk has a setting to correct this. I'm mainly just concerned with Google Pay, is there a method for it to still function with root?
3. Part of me would actually like to use the phone stock for a week or so to see if I even feel like I need root access. I am currently on OS 10.0.3, if I update to the newest OS (looks like 10.3.1 is the newest) will I still be able to root with Magisk? I would assume yes since you can do an OTA update and keep Magisk, but I just wanted to verify.
Again, sorry if some of this is common sense, but I've searched around and can't find straight forward answers fort any of this.
First, sim unlocked you're good to go. No need to bother T-Mobile. Bootloader unlock is through OnePlus. Guides aplenty here, search will turn up what you need. I'm personally running the box stock firmware unrooted and at the moment I'm very happy with it.fotr the first time in a long time I don't see much value in going through the process of rooting because the stock ROM pretty much has everything that I used to get with rooting and a custom ROM. I will probably do it anyway at some point, just because I feel wierd not having root.
Sent from my OnePlus 7 Pro using XDA Labs
guitardoc64 said:
First, sim unlocked you're good to go. No need to bother T-Mobile. Bootloader unlock is through OnePlus. Guides aplenty here, search will turn up what you need. I'm personally running the box stock firmware unrooted and at the moment I'm very happy with it.fotr the first time in a long time I don't see much value in going through the process of rooting because the stock ROM pretty much has everything that I used to get with rooting and a custom ROM. I will probably do it anyway at some point, just because I feel wierd not having root.
Sent from my OnePlus 7 Pro using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the feedback.
I think I'm going to update to the newest firmware. Worst case I decide I want to root I'll use MSM and downgrade, my phone will get wiped when I unlock my bootloader anyway.
guitardoc64 said:
First, sim unlocked you're good to go. No need to bother T-Mobile. Bootloader unlock is through OnePlus. Guides aplenty here, search will turn up what you need. I'm personally running the box stock firmware unrooted and at the moment I'm very happy with it.fotr the first time in a long time I don't see much value in going through the process of rooting because the stock ROM pretty much has everything that I used to get with rooting and a custom ROM. I will probably do it anyway at some point, just because I feel wierd not having root.
Sent from my OnePlus 7 Pro using XDA Labs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason I root is adblocker system wide
jamescable said:
The reason I root is adblocker system wide
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found an app called block this. It does a good job and doesn't need root. It might not block ads on YouTube but it gets rid of the annoying ones in games.
Sent from my OnePlus 7 Pro using XDA Labs

Buying a used phone. Is the second-hand device trustworthy and safe to use?

[Apologies for being a noob, I tried my best to do the homework]
I want to buy a used Pixel 2 (or Pixel 3). There is some general advice on the internet reminding to check:
(i) for physical damage
(ii) if ESN / IMEI has been blacklisted
(iii) if the device is compatible with a carrier (communication standard, uses SIM and not e-SIM, not carrier locked)
(iv) and warning that the device can break or become blacklisted after the purchase.
All of the above is associated with a risk, which is limited to the amount of money paid.
But my primary concern is the risk from using the second-hand device where privacy is critical (email, online banking, 2FA through SMS). How do I make sure the previous owner hasn't planted a backdoor? If I trust Google, what are the reasonable steps to ensure that the device hasn't been tampered with by someone else? In particular:
(1) How do I check on Pixel 2 that the firmware, bootloader, OS are the original ones?
(2) If the device had been bootloader unlocked and/or rooted, is it possible to restore the original images, re-lock the bootloader to be confident that no one (but Google) will spy on me?
(3) Is there anything I am missing?
(4) Which of these are probably different on Pixel 3 and should be asked on Pixel 3 forum?
I barely understand the difference between the bootlocker and the recovery, and I would appreciate clear answers very much.
Related:
- A related thread mentions telling apart Verizon and unlocked versions of Pixel 2:
Buying Pixel 2 on Craigslist any tips to avoid issues?
Hi, I would like to buy a used Pixel 2 off Craigslist and since I am not familiar with the Pixel 2 I hope you can help me make sure I don't get scammed. I know I need to check that the IMEI is not blacklisted (can run it through the swappa IMEI...
forum.xda-developers.com
- A similar question was asked about Galaxy Note 9. One senior member says "Hell, back in the day we could reset knox counters ... even checking knox isn't a full proof method". Another says "So rest assured if your Warranty Bit is not 0x1 a Custom Binary has never been flashed". I am confused, as there is no concensus.
Bought used. Security concerns?
I had been looking for a new phone for awhile. Settled on a Note 9 because I wanted to try using the S Pen for work and dislike the Note 10 design. However, they are still sold at full price where I live, so I bought one secondhand. Everything...
forum.xda-developers.com
- Here someone says "Really easy to relock" about OnePlus 5. I wonder if the same is true for Pixels 2/3?
Risk of used phone with unlocked bootloader?
Hey guys this is probably a lame question... does any risk come with buying a phone with an unlocked boot loader? I bought an OnePlus 5 from ebay used in great shape. The seller advised the the phone was rooted with Android 10. When i start the...
forum.xda-developers.com
Reboot the phone, and see if the yellow exclamation mark comes up saying the bootloader was modified.
If you don't see that, it means the Pixel 2 bootloader was never unlocked and a custom ROM was never flashed to the device.
Since all Pixel 2 phones would be out of warranty now, the only way to ensure security is to flash a trusty ROM yourself.
kodina said:
Since all Pixel 2 phones would be out of warranty now, the only way to ensure security is to flash a trusty ROM yourself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for you response, but I am not sure I understand the last bit. Do you mean I would have to flash a trusty ROM myself because there are no certified service centres that would accept the phone, as the warranty has expired? Or do you mean that there are no automatic updates or supported ROMs because of the end of life or something?
up!
wiltingenthusiasm said:
Thanks for you response, but I am not sure I understand the last bit. Do you mean I would have to flash a trusty ROM myself because there are no certified service centres that would accept the phone, as the warranty has expired? Or do you mean that there are no automatic updates or supported ROMs because of the end of life or something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I mean even if the bootloader is locked, even if the original owner never flashed a custom ROM, the device (in theory) could still have had been rooted in the past, unknown apps installed, root removed and you would never know. Hoewever, this is all in theory, but it is possible, and only applies if you are paranoid about security.
Otherwise, reboot the phone, no bootlaoder warning = 99% safe to use.
kodina said:
No, I mean even if the bootloader is locked, even if the original owner never flashed a custom ROM, the device (in theory) could still have had been rooted in the past, unknown apps installed, root removed and you would never know. Hoewever, this is all in theory, but it is possible, and only applies if you are paranoid about security.
Otherwise, reboot the phone, no bootlaoder warning = 99% safe to use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, I see. And a factory reset would not help either, because it does not recover the OS from a reserve copy whose integrity can be ensured, but simply deletes all user data and extra apps, while keeping the rest, which could have been compromised via root access. Therefore, there is no guarantee that the factory reset via bootloader really gets the device to the "factory state". Is that correct?
[Many thanks for your explanation.]
wiltingenthusiasm said:
Oh, I see. And a factory reset would not help either, because it does not recover the OS from a reserve copy whose integrity can be ensured, but simply deletes all user data and extra apps, while keeping the rest, which could have been compromised via root access. Therefore, there is no guarantee that the factory reset via bootloader really gets the device to the "factory state". Is that correct?
[Many thanks for your explanation.]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In theory, because I have not ready any news, articles, guides or forum threads where people are claiming they have done it.
So, the only option to ensure things are 1% safer, is to unlock the bootloader and flash a custom ROM yourself, trusting that the ROM dev didn't put anything weird in it. Though, as far as I checked, none of the OFFICIAL ROMs for Pixel 2 have a history of putting in something bad.
So, if you want 100% stability, use the default google ROM after a factory reset, but if you want """more""" security, unlock the bootloader and flash the ROM yourself.

Can every Pixel 3 be bootloader unlocked and rooted?

Some time ago I bought a Pixel 2. It was the Verizon variant which has a permanently locked boot loader with no way around it.
The question is, is there any Pixel 3 with permanently locked bootloader or other restriction or can every one be unlocked and rooted?
EDIT, After posting, it showed me related posts (I did search by the way) stating that the Verizon Pixel 3 is permanently locked. Is this the only one of concern. So as long I get anything but Verizon I can root it? Thanks again.
elkinm said:
Some time ago I bought a Pixel 2. It was the Verizon variant which has a permanently locked boot loader with no way around it.
The question is, is there any Pixel 3 with permanently locked bootloader or other restriction or can every one be unlocked and rooted?
EDIT, After posting, it showed me related posts (I did search by the way) stating that the Verizon Pixel 3 is permanently locked. Is this the only one of concern. So as long I get anything but Verizon I can root it? Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T phones are usually bootloader locked also. T-Mobile phones can usually be unlocked. Also the Google branded phones can be unlocked. However, I have seen reports of refurbished phones that had the bootloader locked during the refurbishing process. Better get a guarantee the bootloader can be unlocked.
dcarvil said:
AT&T phones are usually bootloader locked also. T-Mobile phones can usually be unlocked. Also the Google branded phones can be unlocked. However, I have seen reports of refurbished phones that had the bootloader locked during the refurbishing process. Better get a guarantee the bootloader can be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a verizon pixel 2 that i unlocked. you can google how to. I bought a google pixel 3 from google and can be unlocked. the pixel 2 can be unlocked use toolkit. toolkit will do the work for you.
Unified Android Toolkit v1.7.2 | SkipSoft.net
skipsoft.net
elkinm said:
Some time ago I bought a Pixel 2. It was the Verizon variant which has a permanently locked boot loader with no way around it.
The question is, is there any Pixel 3 with permanently locked bootloader or other restriction or can every one be unlocked and rooted?
EDIT, After posting, it showed me related posts (I did search by the way) stating that the Verizon Pixel 3 is permanently locked. Is this the only one of concern. So as long I get anything but Verizon I can root it? Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the Pixel 3 use Tool all in one. it will root phone for you.
TOOL_ALL_IN_ONE_1.1.1.6-NO-INSTALLER.zip | by Mauronofrio for Generic Device/Other
Download GApps, Roms, Kernels, Themes, Firmware, and more. Free file hosting for all Android developers.
androidfilehost.com
Thank you for your help. I was able to find a Google Edition Pixel 3 and immediately and successfully unlocked the boot-loader with the TOOL_ALL_IN_ONE.
I was not able to unlock my Verizon pixel 2 with that or the Unified Toolkit as it is permanently locked.
Instead of rooting, I checked system updates. It had android 11 and did give me an update to Android 12 so OTA updates work with an unlocked boot-loader.
But OMG 12 looks horrible. The huge settings buttons with no way to shrink them and huge lock screen clock as well as all the text in the settings and no customization like in 11.
It think the biggest step backwards ever on Android. I am so happy my pixel 2 stopped at 11.
Now that I am unlocked I can do anything, maybe go to LineageOS, but am I the only one who hates stock Android 12? I suppose there are better places for that.
Thanks again.
elkinm said:
Thank you for your help. I was able to find a Google Edition Pixel 3 and immediately and successfully unlocked the boot-loader with the TOOL_ALL_IN_ONE.
I was not able to unlock my Verizon pixel 2 with that or the Unified Toolkit as it is permanently locked.
Instead of rooting, I checked system updates. It had android 11 and did give me an update to Android 12 so OTA updates work with an unlocked boot-loader.
But OMG 12 looks horrible. The huge settings buttons with no way to shrink them and huge lock screen clock as well as all the text in the settings and no customization like in 11.
It think the biggest step backwards ever on Android. I am so happy my pixel 2 stopped at 11.
Now that I am unlocked I can do anything, maybe go to LineageOS, but am I the only one who hates stock Android 12? I suppose there are better places for that.
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you unlocked the bootloader on your Verizon Pixel 3 with that tool kit.
bmw9651 said:
TOOL_ALL_IN_ONE_1.1.1.6-NO-INSTALLER.zip | by Mauronofrio for Generic Device/Other
Download GApps, Roms, Kernels, Themes, Firmware, and more. Free file hosting for all Android developers.
androidfilehost.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So this tool kit will unlock bootloader on a Verizon Pixel 3.
AtrixHDMan said:
So you unlocked the bootloader on your Verizon Pixel 3 with that tool kit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
with the pixel 2 , you have to use fastboot and adb to gain access to unlock. my pixel 2 is a verizon and i have changed OS to early time. many times. i messed with it.
this is for the Pixel 2 unlocking. https://developers.google.com/android/images
bmw9651 said:
TOOL_ALL_IN_ONE_1.1.1.6-NO-INSTALLER.zip | by Mauronofrio for Generic Device/Other
Download GApps, Roms, Kernels, Themes, Firmware, and more. Free file hosting for all Android developers.
androidfilehost.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait so I can use this toolkit to root Verizon pixel 3 so I can be able to unlock hotspot to tether my unlimited data plan with AT&T?
No, the Pixel 3 that I unlocked is the Google Edition. The Pixel 2 is Verizon and even the toolkits said bootloader is permanently locked. There was one older build of the VZ pixel 2 that could be unlocked, but I am past and I don't think it will allow a downgrade.

Flashing LineageOS for MicroG on 8T (T-Mobile Variant) purchased from OnePlus

Hello all!
Thanks for taking the time to click into this.
About me: I mostly see myself as a somewhat tech-savvy noob - I have rooted several devices in the past, flashed ROMs, etc.
New Device: OnePlus 8T T-Mobile Variant purchased from OnePlus.com
Condition: Brand New - never started the device
I would like to essentially imitate Calyx as described here.
=> install TWRP/Magisk + flash 'LineageOS for MicroG'
Questions:
1) Will I be able to unlock the bootloader given that this is the T-Mobile variant purchased from OnePlus?
2) Do I need to take additional steps because this phone is the T-Mobile variant?
3) basic question: I have never started the phone so it has no personal data - should I back up the current setup in case I need to return to OOS for any reason or can I track down the default OOS installation making that all unnecessary?
(I remember in the past default Samsung installations were easily tracked down and flashed using Odin).
4) Would you recommend any detailed instructions to go through the process of backup, installing custom recovery, accessing root privileges, flashing LineageOS for MicroG, etc?
(I feel like I am piecing parts together from different places and it's all not fitting together)
Thank you so much for reading this.... I feel like I'm going down several rabbit holes currently so any perspective or support is welcome!
It would be helpful to hear any thoughts from some more experienced peeps before I move ahead.
Thank you!
Currently, I am trying to get the SIM unlocked, then unlock the bootloader, and proceed with the plan above.
I am considering returning the phone and getting a different one that has more users on XDA to avoid having bizarre issues arise with the steps involved with the T-Mobile version of the 8T and being totally on my own.
doctadocta said:
Currently, I am trying to get the SIM unlocked, then unlock the bootloader, and proceed with the plan above.
I am considering returning the phone and getting a different one that has more users on XDA to avoid having bizarre issues arise with the steps involved with the T-Mobile version of the 8T and being totally on my own.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah I dont see much help for Tmo version and I faced lots of issues just trying to get a brand new one recognized by my computer.
Ejvyas said:
yeah I dont see much help for Tmo version and I faced lots of issues just trying to get a brand new one recognized by my computer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
whoa! that's helpful feedback. Thank you for posting!
Based on your comment, I am leaning towards returning the phone.
I think I learn best through examples and may need a little support.
I am now wondering how I can figure out which phones have the largest 'community' on XDA.
I have the T-Mobile variant. There's more support and options available so don't be discouraged.
Normally, you have to be SIM unlocked before you can do anything else, like bootloader unlocking. If the phone is being paid for or financed and you haven't been a long time customer you may or may not get it SIM unlocked.
That said, I got mine SIM unlocked after contacting the T-Mobile Tforce people on Facebook. Then I saw this thread on Rebranding the T-Mobile variant.
[GUIDE] Convert TMO to EU via MSM Tool, no SIM Unlock or Bootloader Unlock needed!
*** Use this at your very own risk. *** You will lose all data *** Backup your working modem and persist, just in case *** Read the entire post and follow the steps closely before asking for help. Post all error messages and steps you took...
forum.xda-developers.com
Following it I changed the T-Mobile firmware to the European firmware. If nothing else you get more recent updates and a local update feature (full OTA updates can be downloaded and installed locally). As a result of the conversion I was able to simply fastboot unlock the bootloader without need for waiting for a code from OnePlus. The phone is now bootloader unlocked and rooted with Magisk.
Note that according to the OP, SIM unlock is not necessary for the conversion but you'll still need to be SIM unlocked to be able to unlock the bootloader.
Now that I'm "free" I now have the itch for a custom ROM. Over the years all of my devices run either with microG or just UnifiedNlp but no Google. I feel the need to do the same here. Currently I just have most Google apps disabled and using FOSS apps in their place but still...
Besides LineageOS for microG, the 8T also has Carbon ROM and crDroid. They historically have always had signature spoofing support so I assume they still do with Android 11. That means microG can be used.
Check the guides and ROM/Kernel threads for more info.
I don't know if I can get to trying anything this week but I hope to. I work at a drive-in movie theater and with Spider-Man coming out this week I'll be quite busy.
marcdw said:
I have the T-Mobile variant. There's more support and options available so don't be discouraged.
Normally, you have to be SIM unlocked before you can do anything else, like bootloader unlocking. If the phone is being paid for or financed and you haven't been a long time customer you may or may not get it SIM unlocked.
That said, I got mine SIM unlocked after contacting the T-Mobile Tforce people on Facebook. Then I saw this thread on Rebranding the T-Mobile variant.
[GUIDE] Convert TMO to EU via MSM Tool, no SIM Unlock or Bootloader Unlock needed!
*** Use this at your very own risk. *** You will lose all data *** Backup your working modem and persist, just in case *** Read the entire post and follow the steps closely before asking for help. Post all error messages and steps you took...
forum.xda-developers.com
Following it I changed the T-Mobile firmware to the European firmware. If nothing else you get more recent updates and a local update feature (full OTA updates can be downloaded and installed locally). As a result of the conversion I was able to simply fastboot unlock the bootloader without need for waiting for a code from OnePlus. The phone is now bootloader unlocked and rooted with Magisk.
Note that according to the OP, SIM unlock is not necessary for the conversion but you'll still need to be SIM unlocked to be able to unlock the bootloader.
Now that I'm "free" I now have the itch for a custom ROM. Over the years all of my devices run either with microG or just UnifiedNlp but no Google. I feel the need to do the same here. Currently I just have most Google apps disabled and using FOSS apps in their place but still...
Besides LineageOS for microG, the 8T also has Carbon ROM and crDroid. They historically have always had signature spoofing support so I assume they still do with Android 11. That means microG can be used.
Check the guides and ROM/Kernel threads for more info.
I don't know if I can get to trying anything this week but I hope to. I work at a drive-in movie theater and with Spider-Man coming out this week I'll be quite busy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know how to fix this ?
"Automatic Detection of DDR failed"
Ejvyas said:
Do you know how to fix this ?
"Automatic Detection of DDR failed"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excuse the late reply.
No, not too versed on this device really. I searched for that error and got a lot of hits but didn't have the time to read up. Sorry.

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