OEM Unlock Verizon OG Pixel on Android 10 Q - Google Pixel Questions & Answers

I recently bought a used Verizon OG Pixel for my wife. I have a Google OG Pixel myself. The new phone came with Android 10 Q. None of the previous methods of enabling OEM unlock are working. How can I do this?
On a side note, the seller listed it as an unlocked GSM phone. I thought that was different from the Verizon model. If so, I'll argue for an exchange.

You can try the thread link below for OEM unlocking a Verizon device and see if it works for you but a few people on Q have reported its no longer working, see the last few pages of that thread for more info on that.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030

Related

Just want Kinda Blue Pixel 2. Do I have to care if it's on Verizon? (not using in US)

First of all, I don't live in the US. I have a friend there who can order one and ship it to me.
The Kinda Blue Pixel 2 looks nice and I wonder if I can just order it despite being limited to Verizon option? I don't root my phone so the bootloader locking isn't really an issue for me. I have read some threads saying that it's not carrier-locked. Can someone please clarify if I can just order it and ignore all the Verizon things? Will I need to register the SIM card that is included (can I just throw it away)? With whom do I need to contact if I were to send it back for replacement later? (Google or Verizon)
Any additional info is appreciated, thanks.
You can buy the kinda blue and put your own sim in. It is not carrier locked. You will have all the Verizon bloatware on it which you can disable. But it'll work. I almost did it too, but decided to go with Google black one in case I wanted to flash it although likely hood is very low.
docmalc said:
You can buy the kinda blue and put your own sim in. It is not carrier locked. You will have all the Verizon bloatware on it which you can disable. But it'll work. I almost did it too, but decided to go with Google black one in case I wanted to flash it although likely hood is very low.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you can't unlock the bootloader for the Verizon version. The Pixel was that way. You had to use a hack to do it. There may be some delay as the original tool may not work this time around.
Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
Tidbits said:
I believe you can't unlock the bootloader for the Verizon version. The Pixel was that way. You had to use a hack to do it. There may be some delay as the original tool may not work this time around.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I'm pretty sure I've seen in confirmed somewhere that you cannot unlock the bootloader on the Verizon Pixel 2 (just like with the Pixel 1). Also, I think you will be dependent on Verizon for software updates (although with the Pixel 1, I think they have just stuck to Google's schedule). I don't think it's worth it for just a color.
My understanding for the bloatware, however, is that it's on all of the Pixels (that's, I believe, how it worked with the Pixel 1). It just doesn't show up unless you put a Verizon SIM in the phone.
So from what I have read online, Verizon phones will have the bootloader locked. The bloatware will come pre-installed on "Verizon" branded phones. The unlocked phones will get Verizon crap if a Verizon sim is installed. I believe about 4 programs will be pushed down. However, it could be uninstalled vs just being disabled. As for the software updates, Google will release updates to both versions of the phone. Verizon will not be able to touch the software and will have to release it immediately to "Verizon" branded Pixels.

Is anyone working on a way to unlock the Verizon Google Pixel's bootloader still?

I have had my Verizon varient Google Pixel for a year now. I am on Android beta 8.1. Are any developers still experimenting and trying to find a way? Or has anyone already found a way? I have wanted to unlock this thing since day one. Please tell me someone out there is trying to find a way.
No one has tried that we are aware of since last fall.
No one's going to work on this, when you can just buy one from google that can be unlocked.
Well I'm getting a replacement this Wednesday due to a manufacturing defect. Does anyone know if it will come with Android 7.1?
sd_shadow said:
No one's going to work on this, when you can just buy one from google that can be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I'm getting a replacement this Wednesday due to a manufacturing defect. Do you know if it will come with Android 7.1 or is Verizon updating them before packaging?
shagbag913 said:
Well I'm getting a replacement this Wednesday due to a manufacturing defect. Do you know if it will come with Android 7.1 or is Verizon updating them before packaging?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's going to be updated for sure. Doubt they have any old stock left
shagbag913 said:
Well I'm getting a replacement this Wednesday due to a manufacturing defect. Do you know if it will come with Android 7.1 or is Verizon updating them before packaging?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It could come with 7.1,
But more likely something newer.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk
Actually it has been reported on another thread that if it's a brand new Verizon Pixel, NEVER USED BEFORE, that you can put a different carrier sim in the phone and oem unlock will be available in developer settings to unlock bootloader. However if a Verizon sim is put in it prior to unlocking, it will never be able to be unlocked from what I read at following link. https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel/help/bootloader-unlock-verizon-pixels-t3616101
TheSayaMan said:
Actually it has been reported on another thread that if it's a brand new Verizon Pixel, NEVER USED BEFORE, that you can put a different carrier sim in the phone and oem unlock will be available in developer settings to unlock bootloader. However if a Verizon sim is put in it prior to unlocking, it will never be able to be unlocked from what I read at following link. https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel/help/bootloader-unlock-verizon-pixels-t3616101
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually if you read through the thread carefully, the working theory is that VZW was out of stock and shipped out Google phones. If you have a Verizon phone on 7.1 you have options....if it's been updated you're out of luck.
Just so you guys know... It did end up coming with Android 7.1.2. No unlocking for me.
Actually, I realise they sent me a Google store varient and I am now rooted.
Yeah. I dumped mine once my replacement came with 7.1.1
Happy with the Essential for now.
Sent from my PH-1 using Tapatalk

Verizon Pixel 3s

Is the Verizon Pixel 3 Bootloader Unlockable?!!??! Sorry if this is a known question it's just everywhere I search I can't seem to find a definitive answer on if the Verizon Pixel 3, not models bought directly from google carrier unlocked, are bootloader unlockable out of the box? Im trying to buy the Pixel through Verizon if I can bootloader unlock it as I know where I can get one without waiting for shipping but I don't want to if they arent unlockable out of the box.... Comments from anybody who knows or who has picked one up from Verizon are appreciated. Thanks
If you can't find the answer you aren't searching hard enough. No they cannot be unlocked. Verizon is and always will be locked down. It's possible someone will find an exploit at some point but never count on it. If you want to unlock the bootloader you need to buy it directly from Google.
Rick91981 said:
If you can't find the answer you aren't searching hard enough. No they cannot be unlocked. Verizon is and always will be locked down. It's possible someone will find an exploit at some point but never count on it. If you want to unlock the bootloader you need to buy it directly from Google.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Searching google with "Verizon Pixel 3 bootloader unlock" yields results all saying the opposite for pixels 1 and 2, some devices for whatever reason could be unlocked right away and some a method came out relatively quickly for I just wasnt sure if there was any general consensus since this was for the pixel 1 and 2 not the 3 on Verizon.
There were eventually exploits found (and then patched by updates) for the older Pixels. The Verizon model is certainly without any doubt locked down and will not be able to be unlocked until(if) and exploit is found. There is even a thread on it here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-3/help/elephant-question-verizon-lock-t3855391
Rick91981 said:
There were eventually exploits found (and then patched by updates) for the older Pixels. The Verizon model is certainly without any doubt locked down and will not be able to be unlocked until(if) and exploit is found. There is even a thread on it here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-3/help/elephant-question-verizon-lock-t3855391
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See man I wish you had just said this from the start instead of being snarky because I looked for said thread everywhere but could not find it. Thanks you lol
jake.99x3 said:
See man I wish you had just said this from the start instead of being snarky because I looked for said thread everywhere but could not find it. Thanks you lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wasn't trying to be snarky (ok, maybe a little lol). The discussion is just everywhere, surprised you couldn't find it with Google. For future reference though, if it has the work Verizon in it, you can very safely assume it is locked down. As a Verizon user, I wish it were different but at least the option of buying direct from Google exists.
Rick91981 said:
Wasn't trying to be snarky (ok, maybe a little lol). The discussion is just everywhere, surprised you couldn't find it with Google. For future reference though, if it has the work Verizon in it, you can very safely assume it is locked down. As a Verizon user, I wish it were different but at least the option of buying direct from Google exists.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah at least we are fortunate enough to be able to do it from google. I was just looking to do the monthly payments through Verizon but seems Ill need to get approved to do the same and buy with google so we'll see as I definitely am looking to bl unlock and rom.
I got my hands on a Verizon Pixel 3. I removed my sim, sideloaded ota, rebooted with project fi sim and I was able to unlock the bootloader. Now, this is without ever taking an update.
Did you ever activate on Verizon? People have tried making a "factory" Pixel 3 and removing the Sim to find Verizon stuff still on the phone! If the Verizon models is activated on another network it's unlockable? I only have Verizon service but do have an old ATT sim. People who didn't have Verizon but received a Verizon Pixel said they couldn't unlock the phone on any network.
rlewis312010 said:
Did you ever activate on Verizon? People have tried making a "factory" Pixel 3 and removing the Sim to find Verizon stuff still on the phone! If the Verizon models is activated on another network it's unlockable? I only have Verizon service but do have an old ATT sim. People who didn't have Verizon but received a Verizon Pixel said they couldn't unlock the phone on any network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I booted to bootloader. Side loaded an OTA with project fi sim in it. (I believe it checks during flashing, just my opinion.)
Hmm, that's cool if your method really works
JCBiznatch said:
No, I booted to bootloader. Side loaded an OTA with project fi sim in it. (I believe it checks during flashing, just my opinion.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you heard of anyone else successfully use this method? Looks like you're the only one so far from what I'm reading on the bounty page...

[Guide] Sellers/Carriers with bootloader unlockable Pixel 4 XL phones

I've been thinking of making this list for people who will be buying a Pixel 4 XL in future. It might come in handy to decide where to buy your phone from.
Please post in the thread what your seller/carrier did and I will update the list.
Note: You can buy a bootloader unlockable Pixel 4 XL directly from the Google Store.
UK greyed out OEM
EE
UK unlockable bootloader
Vodafone
US greyed out OEM
Verizon? (conflicting reports)
AT&T
TMobile
US unlockable bootloader
Best Buy
StrangerWeather said:
I've been thinking of making this list for people who will be buying a Pixel 4 XL in future. It might come in handy to decide where to buy your phone from.
Please post in the thread what your seller/carrier did and I will update the list.
Note: You can buy an unblocked Pixel 4 XL directly from the Google Store.
UK blocked OEM
EE
UK unblocked OEM
US blocked OEM
Verizon? (conflicting reports)
AT&T
US unblocked OEM
Best Buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TMobile variant is locked
StrangerWeather said:
I've been thinking of making this list for people who will be buying a Pixel 4 XL in future. It might come in handy to decide where to buy your phone from.
Please post in the thread what your seller/carrier did and I will update the list.
Note: You can buy an unblocked Pixel 4 XL directly from the Google Store.
UK blocked OEM
EE
UK unblocked OEM
US blocked OEM
Verizon? (conflicting reports)
AT&T
US unblocked OEM
Best Buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
UK Vodafone is unblocked.
To be more clear I think you need to refer to it as Bootloader Unlock as OEM has no relation to that at all.
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer btw
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
superchilpil said:
To be more clear I think you need to refer to it as Bootloader Unlock as OEM has no relation to that at all.
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer btw
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, not too sure. It's not that the phones come with an unlocked bootloader, you still have to unlock it. But they are either OEM unlockable or not... Any other suggestions to make it clearer?
StrangerWeather said:
Hmm, not too sure. It's not that the phones come with an unlocked bootloader, you still have to unlock it. But they are either OEM unlockable or not... Any other suggestions to make it clearer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well yeah none of them come with an unlocked bootloader. But your wording wasn't wrong to begin with, I just felt that referring to as bootloader unlockable is a more friendly way to put it especially for the noobs out there.
Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk
Where did you hear about AT&T not being unlockable?
mew1033 said:
Where did you hear about AT&T not being unlockable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-4-xl/how-to/att-pixel-4-xl-locked-bootloader-t3989095
Bit of thread bump, but thanks!
Been searching everywhere to find out if Vodafone UK is un-lockable. Has anyone bought one recently to confirm they're still OK?
The Tmo variant can be unlocked after the sim lock is removed. I think it goes without saying for most that Fi and Google offer unlcockable versions but as this is for new guys it might be worth noting.
StrangerWeather said:
I've been thinking of making this list for people who will be buying a Pixel 4 XL in future. It might come in handy to decide where to buy your phone from.
Please post in the thread what your seller/carrier did and I will update the list.
Note: You can buy a bootloader unlockable Pixel 4 XL directly from the Google Store.
UK greyed out OEM
EE
UK unlockable bootloader
Vodafone
US greyed out OEM
Verizon? (conflicting reports)
AT&T
TMobile
US unlockable bootloader
Best Buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
U.S. Cellular is unlocked for Pixel 4, would assume xl as well
Except for the Verizon model, all of the other US variants can be bootloader (OEM) unlocked when they are SIM card unlocked. However the SIM card being unlocked is a requirement to having the bootloader unlocked. If you purchase a device through a US service provider, it will generally have the SIM card locked down and you must request a SIM card unlock from your service provider. The "unlocked" version sold by Google (and Best Buy) comes with the SIM card unlocked already. Therefore it can immediately have it's bootloader unlocked.
Verizon variants will never be able to be bootloader unlocked - even if you are able to get Verizon to unlock the SIM card. (People who are successful in bootloader unlocking a Verizon model are the exception to the rule and simply got lucky - normally due to a MEID snafu).
This is the same across the entire Google Pixel line.
StrangerWeather said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-4-xl/how-to/att-pixel-4-xl-locked-bootloader-t3989095
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm gonna remove that thread because the bootloader can be unlocked if you carrier unlock your device. Confirmed on my friend's Pixel 4 from AT&T.
StrangerWeather said:
I've been thinking of making this list for people who will be buying a Pixel 4 XL in future. It might come in handy to decide where to buy your phone from.
Please post in the thread what your seller/carrier did and I will update the list.
Note: You can buy a bootloader unlockable Pixel 4 XL directly from the Google Store.
UK greyed out OEM
EE
UK unlockable bootloader
Vodafone
US greyed out OEM
Verizon? (conflicting reports)
AT&T
TMobile
US unlockable bootloader
Best Buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think Verizon is locked if you buy it from them. I bought mine through the Google store with Verizon as a "3rd party" and I got an unlockable XL
I think basically whatever the carrier, they are locked until they are fully paid, is that right? In that case, I might just close the thread as it's not very useful.
Does anyone know if the Spectrum Variant of the Google Pixel 4 xl Has an unlockable bootloader?
I called t mobile today told them I'm a developer and they gave me a permanent unlock for my phone for the OEM so I can't complain but call them, whoever's your provider and tell them you're a developer and you're trying to access the Android 11 operating system and because it's a Google phone they bound to unlock your phone. And my phone ain't fully paid off from T-Mobile so I'm good I'm happy with the results and right now I'm using Android 11 and this bad boy for preview is beautiful
Hello everyone
Any news on Pixel 4XL EE UK to unlock the bootloader after 6 months of use???
I'm on a Verizon variant which I purchased directly from Verizon. Initially I was unable to unlock my bootloader same as everyone else. However, I was recently in developmer options and noticed OEM unlocking was no longer greyed out (I was running Android 11 with Octobers update). I Didn't believe my eyes for a second and immediately toggled it on and got to work. Within a few minutes I was unlocked and rooted. Not sure if they messed up on the 11 update or if it was a mistake from one of the updates. I hadn't checked for a while previous to my discovery so I can't pin down the exact trigger.
Once you either fully payoff the device or get permission through your carrier then the carrier sends it over to Google's server which generates your unlock code then is sent to pixel 4xl as a update which will then unlock your sim. Once your sim unlocked it will allow you to highlight unlock bootloader. This is for tmobile,att, and sprint. Verizon variants however is an exception. You can get sim unlock, but will not highlight the unlock bootloader. Once in a while somebody gets lucky, but does not happen alot. Even tho it is a Google phone the carrier can still make the choice for the bootloader.

OnePlus8 VZW Bootloader is Not Unlockable

Has anyone seen any difference in the bootloader, unlocking, rootability on the Verizon Version of the OnePlus 8. Anything in coding that speaks to a lock out from Big Red?
I heard about sign up and IMEI issues with the direct OnePlus buys although it seems the IMEI issue came across from the Verizon branded ones as well.
Thanks in advance for feedback!!!
Edit.... At this time OEM Unlock is Non-existent in the DEV Settings and Fastboot CMD does not Allow unlocking of the bootloader. Thanks All!!!
bump
biswasd said:
bump
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Click to collapse
I hope that this thread gets some attention or there will be low sales for the Verizon version for root and custom ROM users.
Well if the 8 pro is anything like the 7 pro the bootloader unlock was really easy. There is a statement on DroidLife,com they are talking about unlocked OnePlus 8 phones and Verizon but it was yesterday and it might be fixed by now or real soon.
I have the T-Mobile oneplus 8 I could not network unlock my device not because I am on eip but because my phone is not showing up in their database... they questioned if I even got it through them, I gave them my order number and my IMEI and it was not coming up in their system
Some_Ghost said:
I have the T-Mobile oneplus 8 I could not network unlock my device not because I am on eip but because my phone is not showing up in their database... they questioned if I even got it through them, I gave them my order number and my IMEI and it was not coming up in their system
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same from the reports on VZW. Just wondering how that worked out with the device hardware modifications (assuming there actually are any. Think I may give it a whirl and return if its locked up.
I bought one from straight from oneplus themselves and even though I hadn't even inserted a SIM card yet, I couldn't unlock the bootloader (inserting one didn't change anything). I don't think this is specific to verizon, or perhaps somethings up. Anyone know what's going on? It's an IN21AA
Whatever... I'll bite the bullet. Just ordered one 5 minutes ago and I'll get it on the 6th. Let's see where we end up.
I won't be ordering one if the bootloader can not be unlocked any status updates would be great. The money off with a trade in for the Verizon one is hard to pass up then again the Oneplus Z is coming very soon and with a snapdragon 765G same chip the pixel 5 is rumored to have? move over pixel 4a screwed again.
Sachi315 said:
I won't be ordering one if the bootloader can not be unlocked any status updates would be great. The money off with a trade in for the Verizon one is hard to pass up then again the Oneplus Z is coming very soon and with a snapdragon 765G same chip the pixel 5 is rumored to have move over pixel 4a screwed again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feel like this may be a bug or something else is up with certain models, Oneplus isn't exactly known for keeping everything locked after all.
Xavster2 said:
I feel like this may be a bug or something else is up with certain models, Oneplus isn't exactly known for keeping everything locked after all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the unlocked models from oneplus I agree it's probably a bug. But the VZW branded 8 5G I don't think it is. Pixels even have a different bootloader than the unlocked ones and can't be unlocked if bought from Verizon. Maybe oneplus fought this but who knows Verizon has a lot of pull.
Sachi315 said:
For the unlocked models from oneplus I agree it's probably a bug. But the VZW branded 8 5G I don't think it is. Pixels even have a different bootloader than the unlocked ones and can't be unlocked if bought from Verizon. Maybe oneplus fought this but who knows Verizon has a lot of pull.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's really sad. I bought this device for this very reason over others and I cannot imagine having it perma locked because of verizon (Am on a tmobile MVNO).
Hey guys go read post #4
foamerman said:
Hey guys go read post #4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know it's unlockable. But even people buying direct are having issues with the unlocked phones. If there is a way to unlock the bootloader like the VZW pixel keep the sim out turn it on use WiFi and maybe OEM unlocking isn't greyed out. But VZW will patch that real quick like they did with the pixels. I have a OnePlus 7 pro I have no problem waiting for the 8T or even the Z it's not much of an upgrade anyway the trade in deal was kinda hard to pass up when OnePlus trade in program doesn't give enough money at all. The VZW one was taking even pixel 2s which I have lying around so it was worth it.
Xavster2 said:
I bought one from straight from oneplus themselves and even though I hadn't even inserted a SIM card yet, I couldn't unlock the bootloader (inserting one didn't change anything). I don't think this is specific to verizon, or perhaps somethings up. Anyone know what's going on? It's an IN21AA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need a sim and network to enable OEM unlocking ??* it's your mistake, nobody elses
XD-MOD2-9MM said:
You need a sim and network to enable OEM unlocking ??* it's your mistake, nobody elses
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
>>Inserting one didn't change anything (and it's been that way for 4 days now)
Then I'd try a factory reset. There's no way the unlocked version won't let you unlock the bootloader. No chance. Mine was greyed out till I put a sim in and rebooted on my 8 Pro. and you can always return or exchange or get a refund ??
I read on DroidLife that the unlocked 8 and 8 pro are now certified on Verizon maybe people should work with the reps. to get the problem worked out. If the 8 pro is anything like the 7 pro it's going to be easy to unlock just use ADB.
So that's a definite? OnePlus 8 from red can not be bootloader unlocked? Even when paid off. Jus got mine 2day ago an that would blow
SPEED_RACER_5.0 said:
So that's a definite? OnePlus 8 from red can not be bootloader unlocked? Even when paid off. Jus got mine 2day ago an that would blow
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure what phone you are using now. But I've had the 6, I've got the 7 pro now and both were easy to unlock using ADB and there were both on big red. But right now red had only the 8 pro 5G phone. I talked to a rep online she said was not sure when they were getting the 8 and 8 pro. I read that red was working on certifying unlocked 8 pro from oneplus but they also said it could be June. Let's hope it's sooner. Now I did have trouble with the 7 pro to get it to work on Verizon so I went to Verizon and they got it up and running. It was just a a couple of switches on there side.

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