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.
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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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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
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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...
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
I am aware that there is already a thread for unlocking Bootloader on Android 8.1.0, but I tried the steps in that article and it unfortunately was unable to unlock my device. I bought my Pixel 2 secondhand, but because the OEM Unlocking toggle in Settings is grayed out and in the off position, I am led to believe that I have a Verizon model. I have an AT&T SIM card however. I also tried looking up how to downgrade my phone to the Google version of Android 8.1.0 but they all require that OEM Unlocking be turned on. Is there any updated guide on how to unlock the Bootloader for my phone so that I can possibly root it?
Not right now but there is an interesting vulnerability out right now.... I'd turn off updates for a little while incase something arises
Unlocking the bootloader is a totally different prospect than gaining root. Root can be obtained with an exploit, the recent one being a good example, but it will only be temporary. To make it permanent you need to unlock the bootloader. To unlock the bootloader you need yet another exploit for the bootloader since all the refurbished models appear to be unable to use the factory unlock process. Combine that with low demand for a two year old device and odds are it will never happen unless Google itself provides a solution. In short, I wouldn't hold my breath or leave a giant security hole on your device in hopes that it can be bootloader unlocked in the future. If you need a device that can be bootloader unlocked, go to Google and buy one.
***Unlocking the bootloader is a totally different prospect than gaining root.
Agreed
***Root can be obtained with an exploit, the recent one being a good example, but it will only be temporary.
Not always true, there have been many roots that didn't require bootloader unlock. Towel root comes to mind also many sunshine roots and countless others.
***To make it permanent you need to unlock the bootloader.
It helps a lot but see above....
*** To unlock the bootloader you need yet another exploit for the bootloader since all the refurbished models appear to be unable to use the factory unlock process. Combine that with low demand for a two year old device and odds are it will never happen unless Google itself provides a solution. In short, I wouldn't hold my breath or leave a giant security hole on your device in hopes that it can be bootloader unlocked in the future. If you need a device that can be bootloader unlocked, go to Google and buy one.
I don't want to buy a other phone..... The first one I bought was supposed to be unlockable. I'll deal or hope. The security hole really doesn't worry me at the moment. I won't leave it open permanent.
After thinking about it, the a/b partition may throw a serious monkey wrench in the full root issue.
Is there a way then to root my Android without turning on OEM Unlocking? My limited research on this makes me conclude that there's no such method for the Google Pixel 2.
Right now there is a temp root.
mrkhigh said:
Right now there is a temp root.
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Would you be able to provide a link on how to do a temporary root on the Pixel 2?
I believe if you read the whole thread one person said it worked on the p2.
Careful though, change system they say it bricks the phone.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pi...-magisk-root-vzw-pixel-2-xl-xl-t3981423/page5
I bought a oneplus 7 pro without paying much attention to the fine print. The phone apparently has an IMEI issue and it locked to T-mobile. I want to use it in UAE, is there any way I can unlock it and use it here. It has already been shipped and I can't cancel my order.
PS: Can I unlock my bootloader and install custom roms.
Dinner... You should be able to unlock the bootloader and root it, but it will remain Sim-locked to t-mobile. There are services online that will unlock it from the t-mobile network.
Sent from my OnePlus7Pro using XDA Labs
Dinnerb0ne said:
PS: Can I unlock my bootloader and install custom roms.
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I think there might be a way actually. Haven't personally tried it, but many have said it works. It looks like on the the Android 10 Developer Preview 3, you can actually bypass the token, and unlock the bootloader! I'm not sure if the phone would still technically be SIM locked to T-Mobile (if you wanted to use another carrier), but honestly have no idea. But at least from what it sounds like you should be able to unlock the bootloader, and flash custom roms.
Check out these posts, and the main XDA article that has instructions:
https://www.xda-developers.com/t-mobile-oneplus-7-pro-root-tutorial/amp/
NotATreoFan said:
You still need an unlock token from OnePlus to unlock the TMO model, even on global firmware. It takes about a week from request to processing. You can get around it by flashing the A10 DP3 OTA, and it won't check for the token.
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ajsmsg78 said:
I bought an extra 7 Pro since It was only $450 through T-Mobile. If you're looking for a way to unlock the bootloader as soon as you get it you can. You can follow the guide here. It worked perfectly on mine:
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Best of luck. Please let me know if I can help at all.
I was under the impression the device I ordered off ebay could be bootloader unlocked (apparently verizon pixel 3a), but can't seem to figure it out myself, and i'm starting to think its not possible. If anyone can unlock the bootloader, I am willing to pay.. If not.. :RIP: :crying: Hopefully this doesn't violate the rules, didn't see any.
Unlocking the bootloader on Pixel phones is pretty easy. You can use the guide here to unlock the bootloader.
You will need to use ADB. If you are not familiar with ADB, you can use the guide found here.
I'm assuming that you want to unlock the bootloader so that you can root your Pixel. I used this guide.
I reread your post and noticed that you bought a Pixel that is carrier locked to Verizon. Usually, unlocking the bootloader of a Verizon phone is either not possible or difficult. The information that I gave you is for carrier unlocked Pixels. I haven't had a carrier locked phone in many years so my memory of what is possible is probably a bit fuzzy.
desertcat said:
Unlocking the bootloader on Pixel phones is pretty easy. You can use the guide here to unlock the bootloader.
You will need to use ADB. If you are not familiar with ADB, you can use the guide found here.
I'm assuming that you want to unlock the bootloader so that you can root your Pixel. I used this guide.
I reread your post and noticed that you bought a Pixel that is carrier locked to Verizon. Usually, unlocking the bootloader of a Verizon phone is either not possible or difficult. The information that I gave you is for carrier unlocked Pixels. I haven't had a carrier locked phone in many years so my memory of what is possible is probably a bit fuzzy.
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The phone is not carrier locked, but it was a verizon phone previously. Thanks for the links, and basically my problem I run into is the Greyed out unlock option in developer settings.
Have you tried doing a factory reset and then allow the phone to update over wi-fi?
TurboGSXpixel said:
The phone is not carrier locked, but it was a verizon phone previously. Thanks for the links, and basically my problem I run into is the Greyed out unlock option in developer settings.
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Remove the sim card, do a factory reset, and then go through the setup without the SIM installed. This should allow the OEM unlock to be toggled. Its worked for multiple other people.
Did you switch from Verizon to Tmobile? It appears from what I'm reading that TMO sims are downloading carrier specific settings/options which block the unlock switch.
Regardless of whether you use tmobile or not, the above method *should* allow you to unlock.
Hi guys, I am hoping I can get some help since I am needing to get a 5g phone on T-Mobile and root it to tether with. And since I am adding a line, I could take advantage of their half-off deals, but I need to know if there are any 5g phones on T-Mobile that will let me root it while it is technically still locked to their service. I know when I rooted a phone earlier this year it was just assumed that it needed to be carrier unlocked first, so it's hard to go look at individual phone forums and see if their unlock methods would work for me or not. Is it possible for any of their offerings to be rooted while still be locked to the carrier?
Thanks in advanced.
One of the phones T-Mobile sells with 5G is the OnePlus 8...
Nate Rules said:
Hi guys, I am hoping I can get some help since I am needing to get a 5g phone on T-Mobile and root it to tether with. And since I am adding a line, I could take advantage of their half-off deals, but I need to know if there are any 5g phones on T-Mobile that will let me root it while it is technically still locked to their service. I know when I rooted a phone earlier this year it was just assumed that it needed to be carrier unlocked first, so it's hard to go look at individual phone forums and see if their unlock methods would work for me or not. Is it possible for any of their offerings to be rooted while still be locked to the carrier?
Thanks in advanced.
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All that really matters is if the device has an unlocked bootloader or, at least, a bootloader that can, in fact, be unlocked using a known/proven method for that exact device.
Devices that have an unlocked/unlockable bootloader can easily root using the Magisk method and/or TWRP, but, not all devices have TWRP available to them. But, the Magisk method works for most devices, provided that they have an unlocked bootloader.
Yes, it can be locked to a carrier and still be rooted. When you see guides discussing unlocking a device in order to root the device, they are not referring to carrier unlocking the device in order to root, they are referring to unlocking the bootloader, which must be done in order to make modifications(such as rooting) to the system software.
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