Working root instructions for Verizon Pixel 4 XL - Google Pixel 4 XL Guides, News, & Discussion

VERIZON PIXEL 4 XL Root Instructions
NOTE: You must do this PRIOR to activating the phone with Verizon. On my phone once I activated it the OEM bootloader unlock switch became greyed out. (Edit - after rebooting once activated the OEM lock is available again).
Steps I took:
1. Turn on the phone, do not activate the SIM with the carrier.
2. Update to the latest firmware version.
3. Reboot.
4. Enable developer settings, turn on OEM unlock
5. Boot in fastboot mode, run fastboot flash unlock in a shell, reboot.
6. Set up and activate (mine required a chat with Verizon to activate, it wouldn’t activate through the app).
7. Reboot into fastboot, flash a boot.img that has been patched (magisk_patched.img). You can find instructions on this elsewhere.
8. Reboot.
9. Install magisk manager (canary builds). It will say it needs to download a zip to fully install. Allow.
10. Reboot. You’re now rooted.
11. Magisk manager and magisk install may want to upgrade, feel free.
Enjoy!
NOTE: There are several who this has worked for, and some who haven't been able to get it to work. Suggest reading the thread and providing info on phones that do and don't unlock for whatever reason.

Any idea if this would work with the Pixel 4? Thanks
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Menardo said:
Any idea if this would work with the Pixel 4? Thanks
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't say for certain, but I think it would just the same. I don't know of any reason it wouldn't.

Im......just going to wait patiently for TWRP to be released for Pixel 4/XL then I will flash Magisk. Suck for now because I so use to adaway, and build.prop tether. The struggle is real.

mr.marcus said:
Im......just going to wait patiently for TWRP to be released for Pixel 4/XL then I will flash Magisk. Suck for now because I so use to adaway, and build.prop tether. The struggle is real.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did they ever get TWRP working correctly on the 3xl??

mr.marcus said:
Im......just going to wait patiently for TWRP to be released for Pixel 4/XL then I will flash Magisk. Suck for now because I so use to adaway, and build.prop tether. The struggle is real.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TWRP isn't working on Android 10 currently. It'll need a lot of time to develop, as Google moved a lot of things related to recovery to new sections.
If you really want to root you should definitely patch the appropriate boot image (found here: https://developers.google.com/android/images) and follow the above mentioned steps.
Regarding AdAway: I'm using DNS66 since years. You can download an active the AdAway DNS serting to this app as well an AdBlock will work like a charm. No root needed.
Sent from my HTC U12+ using XDA Labs

Man I wish I saw this first. Well I hope another method comes along for those of us who activated already.

billydroid said:
Man I wish I saw this first. Well I hope another method comes along for those of us who activated already.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well don't feel bad I tried it today before activating and it didn't work. It may wind up being a random occurrence with units that didn't have the IMEI's registered. That's probably why he had to contact Verizon to get the phone to work on their network.

CyberpodS2 said:
Did they ever get TWRP working correctly on the 3xl??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I know of. I have been patching boot files for my 3 xl.

wolfu11 said:
Well don't feel bad I tried it today before activating and it didn't work. It may wind up being a random occurrence with units that didn't have the IMEI's registered. That's probably why he had to contact Verizon to get the phone to work on their network.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps. It knew it was a Verizon phone, it had a Verizon activation app. I was very careful to skip activation of any type at the store or when taking it home, so it might be that you need to tell Verizon that you'll activate it later to have the chance to unlock it.
Also, the OEM bootloader unlock has remained available after reboot. I think if it's unlocked in the way I describe it stays unlocked.

mr.marcus said:
Im......just going to wait patiently for TWRP to be released for Pixel 4/XL then I will flash Magisk. Suck for now because I so use to adaway, and build.prop tether. The struggle is real.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might be waiting awhile.
https://www.androidpolice.com/2019/10/24/android-10-twrp-pixel-3-4/?amp

Nice!
madscribblerz said:
VERIZON PIXEL 4 XL Root Instructions
NOTE: You must do this PRIOR to activating the phone with Verizon. On my phone once I activated it the OEM bootloader unlock switch became greyed out. (Edit - after rebooting once activated the OEM lock is available again).
Steps I took:
1. Turn on the phone, do not activate the SIM with the carrier.
2. Update to the latest firmware version.
3. Reboot.
4. Enable developer settings, turn on OEM unlock
5. Boot in fastboot mode, run fastboot flash unlock in a shell, reboot.
6. Set up and activate (mine required a chat with Verizon to activate, it wouldn’t activate through the app).
7. Reboot into fastboot, flash a boot.img that has been patched (magisk_patched.img). You can find instructions on this elsewhere.
8. Reboot.
9. Install magisk manager (canary builds). It will say it needs to download a zip to fully install. Allow.
10. Reboot. You’re now rooted.
11. Magisk manager and magisk install may want to upgrade, feel free.
Enjoy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was able to do this a couple days ago. I have heard conflicting reports regarding whether this is possible or not but it certainly worked for me. I don't really have any interest in root access on pixel devices so I will just flash the Google store variant factory image (which I think is the one without the C4 in it's build number) and relock it. Maybe I'll play around with it later

Just did the patched boot image method using Magisk to root my 4XL.
Works perfectly with Magisk Canary, exactly the same process I used to do with my Pixel 3

Just an FYI - while Magisk canary builds were required when Android 10 was first released, the Magisk stable version 20 works on Android 10. So while you may use beta or canary builds if you want to, it is no longer a requirement. You can use the latest stable build and be fine.

madscribblerz said:
Perhaps. It knew it was a Verizon phone, it had a Verizon activation app. I was very careful to skip activation of any type at the store or when taking it home, so it might be that you need to tell Verizon that you'll activate it later to have the chance to unlock it.
Also, the OEM bootloader unlock has remained available after reboot. I think if it's unlocked in the way I describe it stays unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I brought it home sealed in the box .
Removed the sim card and powered into bootloader. From there went to recovery mode and did a factory reset. Set it up without signing into my Google account or WiFi and then went to developer options it was grayed out stating"locked carrier device". Did a factory reset as normal and set it up without signing in then took the updates from WiFi. Rebooted and checked developer options still grayed out with same message. I have yet to put a Verizon sim it but did try a different carrier but still no luck. I did have luck with this procedure with one of my Verizon 2xl so I'm pretty sure I did it right. But anyway I didn't see the app you speak of. Where is it located? I only bought this phone because of the discount Verizon gave. I'll be selling it but was curious if it could be unlocked.
Did you unlock your bootloader or just flip the toggle?

wolfu11 said:
I brought it home sealed in the box .
Removed the sim card and powered into bootloader. From there went to recovery mode and did a factory reset. Set it up without signing into my Google account or WiFi and then went to developer options it was grayed out stating"locked carrier device". Did a factory reset as normal and set it up without signing in then took the updates from WiFi. Rebooted and checked developer options still grayed out with same message. I have yet to put a Verizon sim it but did try a different carrier but still no luck. I did have luck with this procedure with one of my Verizon 2xl so I'm pretty sure I did it right. But anyway I didn't see the app you speak of. Where is it located? I only bought this phone because of the discount Verizon gave. I'll be selling it but was curious if it could be unlocked.
Did you unlock your bootloader or just flip the toggle?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both. I'm rooted using a patched magisk boot image, which I couldn't have flashed otherwise.
There does seem to be some mystery sauce here though. I didn't do anything with my SIM, I left it as it was. The app was carrier setup (in notifications prompting to activate) which I didn't launch until after having turned on the toggle, and having run fastboot flashing unlock, then fastboot flash boot magisk_patched.img. I did update to the .C4 release beforehand though, but didn't think that in any way related.
Maybe it was something to do with misconfiguration on the Verizon side - but that seems pretty unlikely given that they didn't even try to activate it and said when I got home to do so - so like you, I came home with it sealed in the box.
Maybe someone else can shed some light - as it seems we're about 50/50 on the unlocks. I bought mine retail at a verizon store. I essentially got it free, as I traded in a Galaxy 5 for $450, which pays out $18.50 a month, and cancelled Fi, which covers the phone's monthly with money coming in.

Damn my device didn't unlock

I wonder if this will work with Spectrum/Charter Wireless since they use Verizon's towers....If anyone knows or has any thoughts I would appreciate it.

wolfu11 said:
I brought it home sealed in the box .
Removed the sim card and powered into bootloader. From there went to recovery mode and did a factory reset. Set it up without signing into my Google account or WiFi and then went to developer options it was grayed out stating"locked carrier device". Did a factory reset as normal and set it up without signing in then took the updates from WiFi. Rebooted and checked developer options still grayed out with same message. I have yet to put a Verizon sim it but did try a different carrier but still no luck. I did have luck with this procedure with one of my Verizon 2xl so I'm pretty sure I did it right. But anyway I didn't see the app you speak of. Where is it located? I only bought this phone because of the discount Verizon gave. I'll be selling it but was curious if it could be unlocked.
Did you unlock your bootloader or just flip the toggle?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did almost the same procedure with my dad's 64 GB black XL. I didn't go into bootloader but I took out the sim, set it up without signing in, and it gave me a greyed out message to turn on WiFi before I could do anything. Tried a factory reset, got the same message. Did another factory reset, set it up without any account but signed into my Wifi network, and it gave me the greyed out message that I can't OEM unlock on carrier locked devices.
When I get my phone I'm thinking about trying a quick WiFi toggle going back to developer settings and trying to unlock before it can communicate with Verizon. I doubt it'll work, but it's worth a shot.
madscribblerz said:
Both. I'm rooted using a patched magisk boot image, which I couldn't have flashed otherwise.
There does seem to be some mystery sauce here though. I didn't do anything with my SIM, I left it as it was. The app was carrier setup (in notifications prompting to activate) which I didn't launch until after having turned on the toggle, and having run fastboot flashing unlock, then fastboot flash boot magisk_patched.img. I did update to the .C4 release beforehand though, but didn't think that in any way related.
Maybe it was something to do with misconfiguration on the Verizon side - but that seems pretty unlikely given that they didn't even try to activate it and said when I got home to do so - so like you, I came home with it sealed in the box.
Maybe someone else can shed some light - as it seems we're about 50/50 on the unlocks. I bought mine retail at a verizon store. I essentially got it free, as I traded in a Galaxy 5 for $450, which pays out $18.50 a month, and cancelled Fi, which covers the phone's monthly with money coming in.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a bit confused by the last part, so are you on a Verizon monthly payment plan?

bosox284 said:
Did almost the same procedure with my dad's 64 GB black XL. I didn't go into bootloader but I took out the sim, set it up without signing in, and it gave me a greyed out message to turn on WiFi before I could do anything. Tried a factory reset, got the same message. Did another factory reset, set it up without any account but signed into my Wifi network, and it gave me the greyed out message that I can't OEM unlock on carrier locked devices.
When I get my phone I'm thinking about trying a quick WiFi toggle going back to developer settings and trying to unlock before it can communicate with Verizon. I doubt it'll work, but it's worth a shot.
I'm a bit confused by the last part, so are you on a Verizon monthly payment plan?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am on a 24 month payment plan, but those payments are negated by the trade in and extra money I save having only verizon without Fi.

Related

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
Click to expand...
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
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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

Verizon Unlock?

Is there still no method to unlock the Verizon Pixel? Running 7.1.2
mackentosh said:
Is there still no method to unlock the Verizon Pixel? Running 7.1.2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NO. Not right now. Probably never.
A lot of people are reporting that the latest VZ Pixel shipments can be unlocked using adb. Search around, consider an RMA.
I literally just got my Pixel today. Ordered it from an authorized retailer here on the NEX in the naval base and it came with 7.1.1
To my surprise, the OEM unlock switch in Developer options wasn't greyed out, so I followed the instructions, unlocked the bootloader, took the update to 7.1.2 (bootloader still unlocked) and flashed TWRP and verifiedsigner (because the new 7.1.2 bootloader requires a signed recovery smh).
I think the new shipments of Pixels from Verizon are all from Google now.
Just had Asurion warranty replace the phone I bought from Verizon. I got my replacement last week (original phone had the hairline crack in the microphone, a known issue). Unfortunately, my phone I received had the 7.1.1 April build AND OEM unlock is greyed out in developer options. So I wasn't lucky enough to get a replacement from Google but from Verizon.
---------- Post added at 02:43 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:40 PM ----------
w0rdie said:
A lot of people are reporting that the latest VZ Pixel shipments can be unlocked using adb. Search around, consider an RMA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This sounds incorrect. Before the 7.1.1 update from Verizon, yes, you could do this using the dePixel8 utility which works off of adb. You would adb push the file to system, chmod it and execute it.
I just did a search and there's no new adb method that will work if your phone is from Verizon AND has 7.1.x on it.
So here's the deal, remove the sim before you boot it, then update to 7.1.2 without the sim, OEM unlock will not be greyed out then I just ran fastboot OEM unlock command and it unlocked the bl. I work at Verizon and have tried it on 4 phones out of the box. Something with the sim locks the bl permanently
Are you serious?
seshaz said:
So here's the deal, remove the sim before you boot it, then update to 7.1.2 without the sim, OEM unlock will not be greyed out then I just ran fastboot OEM unlock command and it unlocked the bl. I work at Verizon and have tried it on 4 phones out of the box. Something with the sim locks the bl permanently
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This almost sounds too good to be true. If this is for real then you should start your own thread and shout it from a mountaintop.
I didn't find it, people were talking about it In another thread.
I work for Verizon and have tried it on a few phones, I remove the sim and do the update and every time it let's you OEM unlock
So do you think factory reset, update to newer monthly os/android o while keeping the sim out will do the trick as well?
con4n007 said:
So do you think factory reset, update to newer monthly os/android o while keeping the sim out will do the trick as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nobody could say it should or shouldn't without trying it. if you have to go back from android o to 7.1.2 though, it will factory reset your phone so consider making a backup.
Really!?!?
I am able to unlock my Pixel XL 32GB from Verizon, below is my fumbling around. Maybe this helps others, maybe I got dumb luck.
Bought phone at Verizon (Had to activate in store with 1 month pre-paid)
Phone powered on at Verizon store with sim in
As soon as the phone made it to the setup screen sim was removed
Fi sim was put in
Rebooted
Accidentally skipped through setup (I didn't know by saying don't use internet connection it would not allow the transfer of files)
Attempted to activate phone with Fi sim
Cannot activate due to v1 of the Fi sim (Error B034)
Factory default (Wanted to copy everything from N6 over)
Copied N6 files over, setup phone (Google account, wifi, apps, etc)
Received 7.1.2 update
Updated phone, rebooted
Tapped to enable dev options
Slider to enable oem unlocking
Checked CID, shows VZW_001
Enabled USB debugging
adb reboot-bootloader
fastboot oem unlock
From here I chose not to click yes to unlock as I just setup the phone, but can later for science if there is doubt. I am currently waiting for my new Fi sim to show.
gubarz said:
I am able to unlock my Pixel XL 32GB from Verizon, below is my fumbling around. Maybe this helps others, maybe I got dumb luck.
Bought phone at Verizon (Had to activate in store with 1 month pre-paid)
Phone powered on at Verizon store with sim in
As soon as the phone made it to the setup screen sim was removed
Fi sim was put in
Rebooted
Accidentally skipped through setup (I didn't know by saying don't use internet connection it would not allow the transfer of files)
Attempted to activate phone with Fi sim
Cannot activate due to v1 of the Fi sim (Error B034)
Factory default (Wanted to copy everything from N6 over)
Copied N6 files over, setup phone (Google account, wifi, apps, etc)
Received 7.1.2 update
Updated phone, rebooted
Tapped to enable dev options
Slider to enable oem unlocking
Checked CID, shows VZW_001
Enabled USB debugging
adb reboot-bootloader
fastboot oem unlock
From here I chose not to click yes to unlock as I just setup the phone, but can later for science if there is doubt. I am currently waiting for my new Fi sim to show.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You received the update without the verizon sim in, using wifi I assume?
Yes WiFi was connected
gubarz said:
I am able to unlock my Pixel XL 32GB from Verizon, below is my fumbling around. Maybe this helps others, maybe I got dumb luck.
Bought phone at Verizon (Had to activate in store with 1 month pre-paid)
Phone powered on at Verizon store with sim in
As soon as the phone made it to the setup screen sim was removed
Fi sim was put in
Rebooted
Accidentally skipped through setup (I didn't know by saying don't use internet connection it would not allow the transfer of files)
Attempted to activate phone with Fi sim
Cannot activate due to v1 of the Fi sim (Error B034)
Factory default (Wanted to copy everything from N6 over)
Copied N6 files over, setup phone (Google account, wifi, apps, etc)
Received 7.1.2 update
Updated phone, rebooted
Tapped to enable dev options
Slider to enable oem unlocking
Checked CID, shows VZW_001
Enabled USB debugging
adb reboot-bootloader
fastboot oem unlock
From here I chose not to click yes to unlock as I just setup the phone, but can later for science if there is doubt. I am currently waiting for my new Fi sim to show.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do I need a Fi sim for that, I'm not from US and using a local provider sim. I'm on 7.1.2 and have tried to factory reset it once but still get oem unlock greyed.
So if I just wait for the latest update to come out and then I update via wifi only and no sim I can then unlock the phone? Or does it mean that because I'm on O if I just remove the sim I can unlock or something? This would be amazing. I know I'm probably wrong but still...
cntryby429 said:
This almost sounds too good to be true. If this is for real then you should start your own thread and shout it from a mountaintop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought my phone from Verizon and took the SIM out before turning it on. I went through the setup without connecting to WiFi or setting up an account. After that I opened settings and my Verizon device was running 7.1.1 February patch I believe. I enabled developer options and my OEM unlock switch wasn't greyed out. I flipped it and connected my device to my PC and rebooted it to the bootloader through ADB. I issues 'fastboot oem unlock' and the device unlocked without dePixel8 despite being a Verizon device. Its true, the SIM determines its gender.
beez1717 said:
So if I just wait for the latest update to come out and then I update via wifi only and no sim I can then unlock the phone? Or does it mean that because I'm on O if I just remove the sim I can unlock or something? This would be amazing. I know I'm probably wrong but still...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perhaps. Won't know until a new update comes out. Either it will remember what it is and stay grayed out or it will do another check and enable it if not a Verizon sim.
I think it's long shot but let's hope.
This is all assuming that it is the sim that determines the lock status lol

Pixel 4 XL Unlocked bootloader

I just unlocked the bootloader on my shiny new Pixel 4 XL. It is the Verizon variant as it was purchased directly from Verizon themselves. I'm unsure whether this is a coincidence, whether Google is no longer offering cell phone service providers a locked bootloader option, or did I just get lucky. The steps I took are...
1: Removed the pre-installed sim card
2: Went through the set-up process via Wi-Fi
3: Immediately turned on Developer options
4: Turned on OEM Unlock
5: Used the "fastboot flashing unlock" command via ADB/Fastboot
Normally the OEM unlock option would be greyed out as it was on my original Pixel XL that I also bought through Verizon but was able to use DePixel to unlock, then flash the Google Factory Image, the bootloader. I was then able to re-lock the bootloader for security and mobile payment reasons while retaining the "OEM unlock" option in the developer settings. I will now attempt to do the same thing when Google releases the Factory Image for the Pixel 4 XL.
It also could be because I removed the sim card before the phone had the opportunity to activate.
I am interested whether anyone else has been able to do this.
BTW: Model# G020J
Kool19 said:
I just unlocked the bootloader on my shiny new Pixel 4 XL. It is the Verizon variant as it was purchased directly from Verizon themselves. I'm unsure whether this is a coincidence, whether Google is no longer offering cell phone service providers a locked bootloader option, or did I just get lucky. The steps I took are...
1: Removed the pre-installed sim card
2: Went through the set-up process via Wi-Fi
3: Immediately turned on Developer options
4: Turned on OEM Unlock
5: Used the "fastboot flashing unlock" command via ADB/Fastboot
Normally the OEM unlock option would be greyed out as it was on my original Pixel XL that I also bought through Verizon but was able to use DePixel to unlock, then flash the Google Factory Image, the bootloader. I was then able to re-lock the bootloader for security and mobile payment reasons while retaining the "OEM unlock" option in the developer settings. I will now attempt to do the same thing when Google releases the Factory Image for the Pixel 4 XL.
It also could be because I removed the sim card before the phone had the opportunity to activate.
I am interested whether anyone else has been able to do this.
BTW: Model# G020J
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did this just now on my AT&T Pixel 4 XL 128GB. Nada... Screw this; I'm returning this.
Kool19 said:
I just unlocked the bootloader on my shiny new Pixel 4 XL. It is the Verizon variant as it was purchased directly from Verizon themselves. I'm unsure whether this is a coincidence, whether Google is no longer offering cell phone service providers a locked bootloader option, or did I just get lucky. The steps I took are...
1: Removed the pre-installed sim card
2: Went through the set-up process via Wi-Fi
3: Immediately turned on Developer options
4: Turned on OEM Unlock
5: Used the "fastboot flashing unlock" command via ADB/Fastboot
Normally the OEM unlock option would be greyed out as it was on my original Pixel XL that I also bought through Verizon but was able to use DePixel to unlock, then flash the Google Factory Image, the bootloader. I was then able to re-lock the bootloader for security and mobile payment reasons while retaining the "OEM unlock" option in the developer settings. I will now attempt to do the same thing when Google releases the Factory Image for the Pixel 4 XL.
It also could be because I removed the sim card before the phone had the opportunity to activate.
I am interested whether anyone else has been able to do this.
BTW: Model# G020J
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is DePixel?
DePixel8
Who-Lep said:
What is DePixel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was software that would unlock the bootloader of the Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL that had the bootloader locked to Verizon. The catch was it only worked on Android 7.1.0 I believe. It was patched shortly after so if you updated your device, no luck.
KillerBytes said:
Did this just now on my AT&T Pixel 4 XL 128GB. Nada... Screw this; I'm returning this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to hear that. Was your model number different. I am truly interested in why I was able to do this so easily.
Kool19 said:
Sorry to hear that. Was your model number different. I am truly interested in why I was able to do this so easily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Model number is G020J as well.
got mine from vzw and was able to unlock bootloader as well, removed sim before turning on, set up phone on wifi and check oem unlocking in dev settings before popping in sim card
I am hoping I am in the same boat. I couldn't pass up getting 450 for a pixel xl so I bought the verizon variant it's coming Monday. I have seen where this has worked in the past with the pixel 2. Here is hoping the toggle gets grayed out when it's sees your on verizon's network. I plan on removing sim booting up and getting to developer options taking the least path of resistance and then trying to unlock. If I am successful I will report back.
Well I'm beat my is locked
bigv5150 said:
Well I'm beat my is locked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm waiting on a 128 GB white from Verizon, but I tried it on my dad's black 64 GB. His is locked as well unfortunately.

Google repair shop re-locked my bootloader... wtf now?

OG Pixel from Verizon, had it for years, battery has been really ****ty lately. So I had to send my phone in to get a new battery, and the cost was similar to go thru google store, so I did. Wiped the phone, restored to stock android, but left bootloader unlocked. Got the phone back today and version of android was downgraded and bootloader was locked.
How ****ed am I and what are my recourses? Tried google support, they're nearly useless.
If you never booted the device yet you can try "fastboot flashing unlock" and it will just re-unlock. Other than that I don't think you will ever see a unlock status on that phone. This is why I do my repairs myself.
Fastboot flashing unlock was unsuccessful, but I suspect that was because the phone was booted up for "troubleshooting" with Google "support."
I assume then there's no way to return it to the post-flash pre-boot state without some closely guarded hardware and software?
Before updating in any way... Search Verizon unlock Pixel and see if that process will unlock. If you allow update past a certain level stuck with no options then if Verizon locked.
Oh, would never allow an update. I'm not crazy. Tried the unlock method with uninstalling the phone app before you get internet access the day I got it, still no dice. Thanks tho.
I just did a credit card chargeback as they sent me back my device in an unusable condition and refused to compensate for it. We'll see how it shakes out in a few weeks probably. Bought a refurb Pixel 3 in the meantime and it was already unlocked, so all is well.
Thanks for the replies though.
-N
n8lee said:
Fastboot flashing unlock was unsuccessful, but I suspect that was because the phone was booted up for "troubleshooting" with Google "support."
I assume then there's no way to return it to the post-flash pre-boot state without some closely guarded hardware and software?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you tell me what security patch you are on? If you are somewhere around Android 9 patch (potentially Android 10 early patches) you can re-unlock. If you try ticking the OEM unlock option in Dev options or if i heard correctly the phone wont boot? If you know your exact version you can try flashing it through recovery, or trying "fastboot unlock" after ticking the oem unlock. Also remember those old workarounds of removing android.phone and such? Yeah try those. Good luck. We'll try and get you unlocked again.

General Pixel 6a OEM Unlocking Greyed Out STILL in August Update

Got an unlocked Pixel 6a delivered yesterday from the Google Store. Was planning to root it immediately upon setup but the "OEM Unlock" option in Dev settings is greyed out, saying "Connect to the internet or contact your carrier". I am connected to the internet, have a Visible SIM installed, and am on the most recent Android 13 update available for the 6a. I have tried all of the options, including factory resetting, going through setup without SIM or internet, etc. Google support has been of little to no help.
Pulled the build.prop using adb shell getprop and the value ro.oem_unlocking_supported does not exist.
Same here - same issue
this is super annoying, i wanted to root also! they need to fix this ASAP
Perhaps you can close this redundant thread since you cross posted to this one and it already has over 200 posts.
6a from Google: Can't unlock bootloader
Hi all, just received my 6a directly from Google and I seem to be unable to unlock the bootloader. The option "OEM unlocking" is greyed out and it says "Connect to the internet or contact your carrier.". I connected it to the internet via Wifi...
forum.xda-developers.com
Odd, when I got June update it became available. But I haven't received any update since, just waiting for ota. I think I'll wait rather than sideload, maybe it will stick.
tcat007 said:
Odd, when I got June update it became available. But I haven't received any update since, just waiting for ota. I think I'll wait rather than sideload, maybe it will stick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not for me. Just loaded stable 13 via beta; checked the unlock switch; still gray. So, I did the reset (but not the sim-removal-turn off wifi, etc) and still no bootloader unlock. What I haven't done is try the fastboot unlock anyway. It seems it would simply not work. However, trying to sideload the June OTA put my phone into a bootloop (which would have been so easy to fix with an unlocker BL) so not really going to mess around much.
Have you tried factory resetting after updating? That's what worked for me.
Yeah, I have, several times, but unfortunately to no avail.
I did the factory reset from the setting app and that did the trick. I had 13 plus the update before I did this.
mmead1143 said:
I did the factory reset from the setting app and that did the trick. I had 13 plus the update before I did this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, for whatever reason that hasn't been working for me.
Just a guess, maybe go to settings/about phone/regulatory labels, and check your model number. Make sure they didn't mistakenly send you a locked to carrier phone.
Do you know of a list like that? That would be so helpful to so many.
I did the sign up for beta, get ota 13, sign out of beta, thing. Got 13 instantly (although takes 45 minutes to install), and unlock bootloader is still available.
bobby janow said:
Do you know of a list like that? That would be so helpful to so many.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What list are you talking about?
roirraW edor ehT said:
What list are you talking about?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A list of model numbers and which is Verizon, unlocked, ATT, Google unlocked etc. Things like that so if someone can't unlock the bl they can check their version/model. For instance I bought a BB unlocked and the model is:
GA03715-US
and in Regulatory Labels is shows GX7AS So I'm pretty much at a loss as to which devices are which if it even matters. I just see so many people that still can't unlock the bl even after updates and factory reset that maybe there is a pattern or versions that will not allow it.
@bobby janow You forgot to type a response when you quoted me. It just seemed like when you said something about a list that maybe you had posted that in the wrong thread, since I didn't notice anything else in the thread that made sense for that response.
Edit: Oh, you edited it now. Nevermind. I understand now.
list of pixel 6a models - Google Search
Although the first search result only lists:
Google Pixel 6a model numbers​The four model numbers are as follows:
A4RGB62Z
A4RG1AZG
A4RGX7AS
A4RGB17L
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GSMArena only lists three:
ModelsGX7AS, GB62Z, G1AZG
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tcat007 said:
I did the sign up for beta, get ota 13, sign out of beta, thing. Got 13 instantly (although takes 45 minutes to install), and unlock bootloader is still available.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just received 6a today, straight outta the box set it up no sim installed checked version, it was 12 , OEM unlock greyed out, did a factory reset , no help, still greyed out, took the ota update , it's was just a newer version of 12, oem still greyed out, factory reset this version and it worked, oem unlock granted
HEY THIS MIGHT WORK FOR U!​
Was having the same issue, nothing seemed to be working.
I had success finally, though!
Be sure you realize your phone will be wiped, etc.
Airplane Mode & No SIM inserted.
Remove All Accounts From Phone (to prevent issues with locks, etc)
Make sure you can put the phone in fastboot & adb modes
I put the phone in various modes to test, and ended up doing this:
[ REBOOT PHONE INTO SIDELOAD MODE VIA: ]
Code:
$ adb reboot sideload
Once the phone is ready to accept the side load OTA package, push that happy bullsh1t right on down the USB cable to the phone via:
Code:
adb sideload ~/MagicalGarbageDump/bluejay-ota-sd2a.220601.003-ddfde1f7.zip
From the OTA file downloaded directly from Google at THIS SITE. It's this one:
12.1.0 (SD2A.220601.003, Jun 2022)Linkddfde1f7edcdbb2b3de41d24f6c3f31587f836f387cab4cc6d16adee32bcab8a
After downloading and flashing that OTA, I had to "reset to factory settings" about two more times, seemingly randomly, and then it worked!
I made sure to have:
- NO SIM CARD IN THE PHONE.
- NO WIRELESS NETWORKS CONNECTED.
I am kind of annoyed it seemingly randomly decided to work, but also grateful that it finally unfzcked itself.
Also no luck over here. I bought my Pixel 6a directly from Google store as a "non locked device". It was sent from France Google store to Spain.
I'm in the 5th September security update under Android 13.
Tried all the tricks posted before: factory reset from settings and from recovery, sideload OTA, tried with sim and without it... No luck, OEM unlock still greyed out.
I wrote to Google about it. They asked me for the imei. After all, no help received from them to solve it.
Still waiting for "magically" disappear the greyed option...
l would send it back and get the p6 pro. For a few dollars more you get a better phone and no unlock issues.

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