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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.
So I sold my s8+ g955fd seexynos to this guy for a really good price.
My s8+ was rooted with magisk and bootloader was unlocked.
But this guys wants it unrooted and wants the bootloader to be locked so that he can have the ota updates working. And if I fail to do so (which I am at the moment), I would have to return the money (which I dont want to).
I tried flashing stock rom (latest from Sammobile) from the scratch with Odin but still when I check with Intercept X app, it says bootloader unlocked. and I checked in developer options too, the oem unlock is greyed out and set to off and says "bootloader is already unlocked".
Could someone please guide me with working steps please? I am good with flashing and stuff.
I tried searching the s8+ forum but couldn't find anything helpful.
Need urgent help. :foldedhands:
Edit 1: now the OEM unlock is gone from developers options after flashing magisk again :scared:
Edit 2: After uninstalling magisk from magisk manager app
, phone went to bootloop. So I flashed stock rom "bl,ap,cp,csc" with odin again and the greyed out oem unlock is back with status "bootloader is already unlocked"
Any hint guys?
Just a hint would be enough!
Its a one way process from what I understand.
Anybody will want it locked because without it locked you cant use Knox or any of the payment apps that depend on Knox.
I could be wrong but this is what I feel.
RonChinoy said:
Its a one way process from what I understand.
Anybody will want it locked because without it locked you cant use Knox or any of the payment apps that depend on Knox.
I could be wrong but this is what I feel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Already figured it out. I am sure that guy doesn't care about knox, but does care about ota updates
So you got the Edge S and want GApps? Basically you unlock your bootloader, root with Magisk, then install MagiskGApps.
DISCLAIMER: UNLOCKING YOUR BOOTLOADER MAY VOID YOUR WARRANTY, AND DOING ALL THESE THINGS IN THIS GUIDE MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE/BRICKING YOUR PHONE. I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANYTHING YOU DO TO YOUR PHONE. PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK.
1. Unlock the bootloader: that should be doable with their global bootloader unlock website here.
2. Download Lenovo Motoroa Smart Assistant (Rescue and Smart Assistant), and follow its instructions to "rescue" your device. It will lead you to boot into bootloader mode and download the firmware. Find the firmware file via the LMSA's downloads (should have a "show folder" button). You'll need the boot.img file for Magisk.
3. Download Magisk, then follow its instructions. You'll have to copy the boot.img to your device, then use Magisk to patch the boot file, then copy the modified one to your PC.
4. You'll need fastboot. If you don't have it already, you can download the Android SDK platform tools here. Then go into the folder, Shift+Right Click the folder, then "Open Command Prompt" or "Open PowerShell," you should have something close to one of those two. Copy your Magisk modified .img file to that folder, then you'll want to input:
fastboot flash boot [modified .img file]
Once that completes, you should see in large text, "Start" on your phone next to the power button. Press the power button, and it should boot, and you should have root now.
5. Download MagiskGApps to your phone, open Magisk on your phone, click the button that looks like a puzzle piece at the bottom of the screen, "Modules." Click "Install from storage," locate the MagiskGApps file, and install it. After that it will ask you to restart your phone, do that, then you'll just have to be patient as it takes time once its restarted to load everything. You also may need to update some or all of the apps, then you should be able to use the notification to finish setting up the phone with Google Setup.
Thanks to Motorola for making it easy to unlock their bootloaders
Thanks to the whole Magisk team for making an easy, awesome root (and more!)
Thanks to Wacko1805 (and team?) for making MagiskGApps. This is really awesome.
unlock the BL and get root is will make some apps fingerprint and face ID fail?
kimker said:
unlock the BL and get root is will make some apps fingerprint and face ID fail?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Magisk has a "Magisk Hide" which will allow it to pass SafetyNet, and most things which check on device security will think the device is secure. But unlocking BL and rooting does make the device less secure, and therefore incurs its own risks apart from bricking or damaging the device.
HopelesRomantc91 said:
Magisk has a "Magisk Hide" which will allow it to pass SafetyNet, and most things which check on device security will think the device is secure. But unlocking BL and rooting does make the device less secure, and therefore incurs its own risks apart from bricking or damaging the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, i knew the unlock and root will take risk.. but not sure is Payment business apps using fingerprint will work normal.
kimker said:
yes, i knew the unlock and root will take risk.. but not sure is Payment business apps using fingerprint will work normal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Pay works. But according to the Motorola website you should be able to relock the bootloader if yours doesn't work. But there's never any guarantee. If you need your device secure, recommend don't unlock bl or root, or wait to see if there's a root option without bootloader unlock that can be easily undone.
HopelesRomantc91 said:
Google Pay works. But according to the Motorola website you should be able to relock the bootloader if yours doesn't work. But there's never any guarantee. If you need your device secure, recommend don't unlock bl or root, or wait to see if there's a root option without bootloader unlock that can be easily undone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw that someone’s edge s had unlocked the BL and Flash G100 firmware and everything worked normally, and then tried to lock the BL again, but it was unsuccessful and the system could not start. The flashing tool does not recognize the machine.
kimker said:
I saw that someone’s edge s had unlocked the BL and Flash G100 firmware and everything worked normally, and then tried to lock the BL again, but it was unsuccessful and the system could not start. The flashing tool does not recognize the machine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not good. Hopefully they can restore it back somehow. With this guide to unlock and flash gapps why would you need to flash G100 though? This seems to be itright now without one of rom developer's releases to get root & apps. For me this is all i would look for. Titanium backup on it and restore.. done until PE rom comes out.
kimker said:
I saw that someone’s edge s had unlocked the BL and Flash G100 firmware and everything worked normally, and then tried to lock the BL again, but it was unsuccessful and the system could not start. The flashing tool does not recognize the machine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would think yes, if you flash different firmware, locking the BL would likely cause problems. It's very difficult to do anything w/o unlocked bootloader, except sometimes rooting is doable. That's pretty much the behavior I expect. If they come to this subforum, we might be able to help.
HopelesRomantc91 said:
I would think yes, if you flash different firmware, locking the BL would likely cause problems. It's very difficult to do anything w/o unlocked bootloader, except sometimes rooting is doable. That's pretty much the behavior I expect. If they come to this subforum, we might be able to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you. They did not ask for help. It seems that the lock BL is a self-verification switch, and then performs a verification system integrity.
HopelesRomantc91 said:
I would think yes, if you flash different firmware, locking the BL would likely cause problems. It's very difficult to do anything w/o unlocked bootloader, except sometimes rooting is doable. That's pretty much the behavior I expect. If they come to this subforum, we might be able to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm curious,If you unlock and flash other firmware and then flash back to the original firmware, can it be locked again?
Mine doesn't let me unlock its BL. I've got unlock code from moto and did a factory reset with SIM card in slot 1. After enabling developer mode and debugging the switch still is greyed out. So no chance to unlock it.
Has anyone got an idea what to try now?
Moto support answered yesterday to my request but also no solution since I told them that it doesn't work
Device is not branded. I got it from Amazon so no provider branding.
If this won't be able to be unlocked and rooted I'll have to return it and switch to a Google Pixel.
kischde said:
Mine doesn't let me unlock its BL. I've got unlock code from moto and did a factory reset with SIM card in slot 1. After enabling developer mode and debugging the switch still is greyed out. So no chance to unlock it.
Has anyone got an idea what to try now?
Moto support answered yesterday to my request but also no solution since I told them that it doesn't work
Device is not branded. I got it from Amazon so no provider branding.
If this won't be able to be unlocked and rooted I'll have to return it and switch to a Google Pixel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had the same issue, you need to factory reset WITH your sim card in the phone, this will let you open the OEM unlock slide thing in the dev mode.
Then once its done you can fastboot and unlock the bootloader.
I did so, maybe I explained not so well. SIM was inserted and then I did factory reset by starting it from settings. After restart it's still the same - switch / unlock slider greyed out.
kischde said:
I did so, maybe I explained not so well. SIM was inserted and then I did factory reset by starting it from settings. After restart it's still the same - switch / unlock slider greyed out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On my OG Pixel XL, I had to wait 7 days for the slider to become normal. By the time I got around to do it on the Edge S it was about the same time.... could be related
Now as you said that I remember that thingy with another device. Maybe a Xiaomi I think... With that I had to wait several days until the unlock code was delivered.
But there was a message, too, when trying to get it sooner, which said you needed to wait some more time.
Not sure if it's the the same for Moto devices? Then again, when thinking that you experienced the same with a Pixel, too...
Did anyone else make such an experience with his/her g100?
kischde said:
Now as you said that I remember that thingy with another device. Maybe a Xiaomi I think... With that I had to wait several days until the unlock code was delivered.
But there was a message, too, when trying to get it sooner, which said you needed to wait some more time.
Not sure if it's the the same for Moto devices? Then again, when thinking that you experienced the same with a Pixel, too...
Did anyone else make such an experience with his/her g100?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Make sure your on the latest OTA, Lenovo made a mistake on previous versions with the OEM Unlocking function not being enabled. They fixed it in latest ota.
RSA tool said the file I uploaded yesterday is the latest one available (and it's exactly the same as the installed version).
The device was released just a few days ago in Europe. Perhaps they fixed the unlock switch in other regions and still need to fix it in Europe..
Will wait until weekend if they come up with a solution. If not I'm afraid I have to return the device as I need it personally AND professionally, too - I'm field agent, so.... :/
HopelesRomantc91 said:
I would think yes, if you flash different firmware, locking the BL would likely cause problems. It's very difficult to do anything w/o unlocked bootloader, except sometimes rooting is doable. That's pretty much the behavior I expect. If they come to this subforum, we might be able to help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The poor guy whose phone turned bricks went to the after-sales department of moto, and the answer was that he needed to replace the phone motherboard. .
kimker said:
The poor guy whose phone turned bricks went to the after-sales department of moto, and the answer was that he needed to replace the phone motherboard. .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ouch...
kimker said:
I'm curious,If you unlock and flash other firmware and then flash back to the original firmware, can it be locked again?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would assume so, but I don't really know why anyone would want to relock.
Hi guys,
Man oh man this phone...
So basically I'm trying to unlock my bootloader without waiting the 7 days, since I simply don't trust this phone to give me the OEM Unlock option after 7 days...
Before I decided to unlock my bootloader I had been using this phone for about 2 months like normal, sure I uninstalled a ton of bloatware and system apps that I didn't need which MIGHT have been the reason it didn't show the OEM Unlock after months, but the battery life was amazing.
But recently I've been considering rooting my phone, and before I started factory resetting and trying many different things to show the OEM Unlock option, keep in mind I've bee using this phone normally for a couple months, I checked the developer options and not a surprise, OEM Unlock wasn't there.
So ever since, I've tried sooo many things to show the OEM Unlock:
( I reflashed the stock firmware with Odin in between all these methods I've tried )
Also before I list everything I've tried heres the full specs of this phone and the drivers I've installed on my Windows 10
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G (SM-A326U)
T-Mobile, MTK, Network locked, No SIM, NOT Snapdragon
Drivers I've installed on my PC: Google USB Driver, ADB Interface, Samsung Android USB Driver, MTK Driver, USBDk and a few more can't remember the names...
1. Changing date, checking for an update and changing the date back, tried restarting the phone in between, tried turning wifi on and off in between.
2. Combination firmware, got unauthorized error on the download mode screen talking about the pit file.
3. Tried running:
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot devices (It successfully recognized my phone)
fastboot oem unlock: Unknown command
Didn't even run the command...
4. Since its a MTK CPU I had hope for mtkclient https://github.com/bkerler/mtkclient
It just kept asking to connect my phone, tried connecting with recovery mode, download mode and fastboot mode, none of them were recognized
The reason I need a quick way to unlock the bootloader, is cause I will be doing stuff with this phone that might result in me having to reflash the firmware which I can't risk it relocking and have to wait 7 days each time something goes wrong.
I heard that T-Mobile phones bootloader's are impossible to unlock, someone please tell me that is not true...
So basically,
Is there any way to unlock the bootloader? If not why and if yeah, what have I been doing wrong and how?
Thanks guys
7 days what? Tmo A326U doesnt have the option to unlock the bootloader, you need to pay the people here that provide the service. They are the only ones that seemingly know how to get it unlocked, and I can vouch for it.
Seriously... So there's no way to unlock for free, or by waiting...?
Not a bootloader unlock. Its not just Tmo that are locking these down tighter.
You can unlock it for free if you can figure out whatever they do ;-)
Nah idc about a network unlock since I don't have service for this phone, I just wanna know if its possible to unlock the bootloader... I've tried everything
Who is talking about a network unlock?
TimmyP said:
Who is talking about a network unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You said not a "bootloader unlock" so I was assuming you're talking about network unlock... Sorry, but should I just give up, there's seemingly NO WAYY to unlock the bootloader of a T-Sh*t phone.
Oh just misunderstanding my bad. I meant you cant wait for a bootloader unlock, but you can wait and maybe they would carrier unlock it later... but thats not what you want anyways.
TimmyP said:
Oh just misunderstanding my bad. I meant you cant wait for a bootloader unlock, but you can wait and maybe they would carrier unlock it later... but thats not what you want anyways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's kinda sad, I think I'm gonna just give up, but thanks for the information... Hopefully something happens in the future that allows it to be unlocked soon... Thanks man
I doubt they'll bring it back. OEM unlock that is. My phone is over 7 days old and I did the factory reset by holding the volume down and power buttons and then the volume up and power button and did the full factory reset. OEM unlock is still gone. Yes I got the developer options turned on. I rooted a couple of Nexus 6p's which of course are obsolete now since they were 3G and there is no backward capability. At least I got them used, replaced the batteries myself and can use them as WiFi phones with Talkatone through my WiFi. Read some blurbs about Kingo root working but I'd like to see that someone has pulled it off with the A32. Am under a 2 year obligation but I bought a second one to experiment on. I did that before I found out there was no OEM unlock. Well, if I break one, I'll have a backup. Except the phone is tied to the SIMM and I'd have to bring the backup in to have it reprogrammed.
TimmyP said:
Who is talking about a network unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any good service to network unlock SM-A236U or U1. Flashed XAA t no avail the Carrier_ID stays at DSH...
iabhua said:
Any good service to network unlock SM-A236U or U1. Flashed XAA t no avail the Carrier_ID stays at DSH...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am working on unlock for it but I need root or a device on low security update. I am almost close to an solution if your device security patch is low please let me know
TimmyP said:
7 days what? Tmo A326U doesnt have the option to unlock the bootloader, you need to pay the people here that provide the service. They are the only ones that seemingly know how to get it unlocked, and I can vouch for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have any device with an unlock bootloader or unlock? I am trying to get a ram dimp for days nobody have an device.
andioshelp said:
I am working on unlock for it but I need root or a device on low security update. I am almost close to an solution if your device security patch is low please let me know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have two SM-A236U’s but unfortunately one has binary 6 FW and the other binary 7.
1.fuxk_ said:
Hi guys,
Man oh man this phone...
So basically I'm trying to unlock my bootloader without waiting the 7 days, since I simply don't trust this phone to give me the OEM Unlock option after 7 days...
Before I decided to unlock my bootloader I had been using this phone for about 2 months like normal, sure I uninstalled a ton of bloatware and system apps that I didn't need which MIGHT have been the reason it didn't show the OEM Unlock after months, but the battery life was amazing.
But recently I've been considering rooting my phone, and before I started factory resetting and trying many different things to show the OEM Unlock option, keep in mind I've bee using this phone normally for a couple months, I checked the developer options and not a surprise, OEM Unlock wasn't there.
So ever since, I've tried sooo many things to show the OEM Unlock:
( I reflashed the stock firmware with Odin in between all these methods I've tried )
Also before I list everything I've tried heres the full specs of this phone and the drivers I've installed on my Windows 10
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G (SM-A326U)
T-Mobile, MTK, Network locked, No SIM, NOT Snapdragon
Drivers I've installed on my PC: Google USB Driver, ADB Interface, Samsung Android USB Driver, MTK Driver, USBDk and a few more can't remember the names...
1. Changing date, checking for an update and changing the date back, tried restarting the phone in between, tried turning wifi on and off in between.
2. Combination firmware, got unauthorized error on the download mode screen talking about the pit file.
3. Tried running:
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot devices (It successfully recognized my phone)
fastboot oem unlock: Unknown command
Didn't even run the command...
4. Since its a MTK CPU I had hope for mtkclient https://github.com/bkerler/mtkclient
It just kept asking to connect my phone, tried connecting with recovery mode, download mode and fastboot mode, none of them were recognized
The reason I need a quick way to unlock the bootloader, is cause I will be doing stuff with this phone that might result in me having to reflash the firmware which I can't risk it relocking and have to wait 7 days each time something goes wrong.
I heard that T-Mobile phones bootloader's are impossible to unlock, someone please tell me that is not true...
So basically,
Is there any way to unlock the bootloader? If not why and if yeah, what have I been doing wrong and how?
Thanks guys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There was a similar procedure to unlock bootloader on a samsung mtk (A125U) same carrier as yours (T-Mobile TMB and the same applies to MetroPCS TMB) basicaly, you had to flash BL files from the A125W (canadian version) then unlocking bootloader using testpoint (bootrom mode) then using any paid or free app (in my case i use a paid one because i run a repair shop). even if you unlock bootloader using paid tools, it gets locked again when it turns on. (i tested it without flashing BL files)
sadly, i dont have a A326U lying arround to test said procedure.
1.fuxk_ said:
Hi guys,
Man oh man this phone...
So basically I'm trying to unlock my bootloader without waiting the 7 days, since I simply don't trust this phone to give me the OEM Unlock option after 7 days...
Before I decided to unlock my bootloader I had been using this phone for about 2 months like normal, sure I uninstalled a ton of bloatware and system apps that I didn't need which MIGHT have been the reason it didn't show the OEM Unlock after months, but the battery life was amazing.
But recently I've been considering rooting my phone, and before I started factory resetting and trying many different things to show the OEM Unlock option, keep in mind I've bee using this phone normally for a couple months, I checked the developer options and not a surprise, OEM Unlock wasn't there.
So ever since, I've tried sooo many things to show the OEM Unlock:
( I reflashed the stock firmware with Odin in between all these methods I've tried )
Also before I list everything I've tried heres the full specs of this phone and the drivers I've installed on my Windows 10
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G (SM-A326U)
T-Mobile, MTK, Network locked, No SIM, NOT Snapdragon
Drivers I've installed on my PC: Google USB Driver, ADB Interface, Samsung Android USB Driver, MTK Driver, USBDk and a few more can't remember the names...
1. Changing date, checking for an update and changing the date back, tried restarting the phone in between, tried turning wifi on and off in between.
2. Combination firmware, got unauthorized error on the download mode screen talking about the pit file.
3. Tried running:
adb reboot bootloader
fastboot devices (It successfully recognized my phone)
fastboot oem unlock: Unknown command
Didn't even run the command...
4. Since its a MTK CPU I had hope for mtkclient https://github.com/bkerler/mtkclient
It just kept asking to connect my phone, tried connecting with recovery mode, download mode and fastboot mode, none of them were recognized
The reason I need a quick way to unlock the bootloader, is cause I will be doing stuff with this phone that might result in me having to reflash the firmware which I can't risk it relocking and have to wait 7 days each time something goes wrong.
I heard that T-Mobile phones bootloader's are impossible to unlock, someone please tell me that is not true...
So basically,
Is there any way to unlock the bootloader? If not why and if yeah, what have I been doing wrong and how?
Thanks guys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you tried, instead of fastboot oem unlock, fastboot flashing unlock
DjoFight said:
Did you tried, instead of fastboot oem unlock, fastboot flashing unlock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In case people need the procedures for those processes, I wrote this up recently to help others do it easier than it was for me to figure out.
How to un-freeze an unresponsive Samsung Galaxy A32 5G with reboot, reset, factory reset, odin mode, download mode, android recovery mode & debug mode
Has any one made any progress regarding the missing oem unlock? I know what parameters to add to our kernel v1 to v3 during building to enable oem unlock and add access to fastbootd. Because of project treble our options have changed.
Sources:
Moving Fastboot to Userspace | Android Open Source Project
source.android.com
Locking/Unlocking the Bootloader | Android Open Source Project
source.android.com
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Locking/Unlocking the Bootloaderbookmark_border
On this page
Unlocking the bootloader
Locking the bootloader
Setting lock/unlock properties
Protecting critical sections
By default, most Android devices ship with a locked bootloader, meaning that users can't flash the bootloader or device partitions. If needed, you (and device users with Developer options enabled) can unlock the bootloader to flash new images.
Unlocking the bootloaderTo unlock the bootloader and enable partitions to be reflashed, run the fastboot flashing unlock command on the device. After setting, the unlock mode persists across reboots.
Devices should deny the fastboot flashing unlock command unless the get_unlock_ability is set to 1. If set to 0, the user needs to boot to the home screen, open the Settings > System > Developer options menu and enable the OEM unlocking option (which sets the get_unlock_ability to 1). After setting, this mode persists across reboots and factory data resets.
When the fastboot flashing unlock command is sent, the device should prompt users to warn them that they might encounter problems with unofficial images. After the user acknowledges the warning, the device should perform a factory data reset to prevent unauthorized data access. The bootloader should reset the device even if it can't reformat it properly. Only after a reset can the persistent flag be set so that the device can be reflashed.
All RAM not already overwritten should be reset during the fastboot flashing unlock process. This measure prevents attacks that read leftover RAM contents from the previous boot. Similarly, unlocked devices should clear RAM at every boot (unless this creates an unacceptable delay), but should leave the region used for the kernel's ramoops.
Locking the bootloaderTo lock the bootloader and reset the device, run the fastboot flashing lock command on the device. Devices intended for retail should be shipped in the locked state (with get_unlock_ability returning 0) to ensure that attackers can't compromise the device by installing a new system or boot image.
Setting lock/unlock propertiesThe ro.oem_unlock_supported property should be set at build time based on whether the device supports flashing unlock.
If the device supports flashing unlock, set ro.oem_unlock_supported to 1.
If the device doesn't support flashing unlock, set ro.oem_unlock_supported to 0.
If the device supports flashing unlock, then the bootloader should indicate the lock status by setting the kernel command line variable androidboot.flash.locked to 1 if locked or to 0 if unlocked. This variable must be set in bootconfig instead of in the kernel command line in Android 12.
For devices that support dm-verity, use ro.boot.verifiedbootstate to set the value of ro.boot.flash.locked to 0; this unlocks the bootloader if the verified boot state is orange.
I have the A32 5G (64Gb Int. Stg.) & it's the Tracfone Only version or SM-S326DL. After recently receiving word that Android 13 was awaiting us, I quickly allowed my device to receive this very kool OTA operating system update. I mention this, because a week earlier I received an email from my prepaid wireless provider instructing me in detail how to manually unlock my A32 5G handset. So, to be clear, Tracfone notified me in their email how to unlock my device, but whan
this happens to often, to write this off as an app-mishap xda...why?!
(pls. explain this to me, what is really going on)?
evnStevn said:
I have the A32 5G (64Gb Int. Stg.) & it's the Tracfone Only version or SM-S326DL. After recently receiving word that Android 13 was awaiting us, I quickly allowed my device to receive this very kool OTA operating system update. I mention this, because a week earlier I received an email from my prepaid wireless provider instructing me in detail how to manually unlock my A32 5G handset. So, to be clear, Tracfone notified me in their email how to unlock my device, but whan
this happens to often, to write this off as an app-mishap xda...why?!
(pls. explain this to me, what is really going on)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm wondering too. Could you please pm me what you were trying to post?
Hey I am trying to root my sm-a037w, fully updated.
I remember having OEM unlocked it using the developer option which is now gone completely.
I'm using Magisk to patch the AP file
Then use ODIN to flash it and it stops at vbmeta with a error.
I'm new to this and have googled alot but now I'm really stuck.
So it fails, corrupt phone, I reflash oem AP and it restarts.
I have adb and fastboot ready to go,
Thank you.
Johnhek said:
Hey I am trying to root my sm-a037w, fully updated.
I remember having OEM unlocked it using the developer option which is now gone completely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is your problem, right here. If you closely read the Magisk installation instructions:
Unlocking the bootloader on modern Samsung devices have some caveats. The newly introduced VaultKeeper service will make the bootloader reject any unofficial partitions in some circumstances.
Allow bootloader unlocking in Developer options → OEM unlocking
Reboot to download mode: power off your device and press the download mode key combo for your device
Long press volume up to unlock the bootloader. This will wipe your data and automatically reboot.
Go through the initial setup. Skip through all the steps since data will be wiped again in later steps. Connect the device to Internet during the setup.
Enable developer options, and confirm that the OEM unlocking option exists and is grayed out. This means the VaultKeeper service has unleashed the bootloader.
Your bootloader now accepts unofficial images in download mode
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can't see OEM Unlocking in Developer Options, and you see KG STATUS: PRENORMAL on the download mode screen, Vaultkeeper is still active and will reject custom images.
V0latyle said:
This is your problem, right here. If you closely read the Magisk installation instructions:
If you can't see OEM Unlocking in Developer Options, and you see KG STATUS: PRENORMAL on the download mode screen, Vaultkeeper is still active and will reject custom images.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I've been trying for the last 48 hours and I can't figure it out how to get it back.
I did have developer mode active and had seen and allowed oem unlocking, not sure when I disappeared, I think it was the latest update.
Don't know how to proceed.
Tried setting the date back , disabling system update and software update, still no OEM Unlocking.
I have read those instructions many times, I have no prior experience rooting or modding android :/
Should I reflash original firmware?
Where do I go from here?
Johnhek said:
Yea I've been trying for the last 48 hours and I can't figure it out how to get it back.
I did have developer mode active and had seen and allowed oem unlocking, not sure when I disappeared, I think it was the latest update.
Don't know how to proceed.
Tried setting the date back , disabling system update and software update, still no OEM Unlocking.
I have read those instructions many times, I have no prior experience rooting or modding android :/
Should I reflash original firmware?
Where do I go from here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you ever see the OEM Unlocking toggle after you unlocked the bootloader?
I assume you -did- unlock the bootloader, correct?
OEM Unlocking does not unlock the bootloader, it simply allows you to.
Reflashing the firmware might be a good idea. Keep in mind that Samsung is notorious for trying to disallow custom binaries on newer bootloaders. This is all speculation though, I'd need to see the error you got to have a better idea what the issue is.
flashing firmware is bad idea, this won't reset vaultkeeper. check RMM/KG state from download mode screen first. btw it's called odin mode (not fastboot mode)
[GUIDE][17.06.2019] RMM/KG bypass - Root/Install TWRP on Exynos Samsung after 2018
UPDATE 17.06.2019 - NEW RMM/KG bypass patch UPDATE 23.02.2019 - Pie and more Please take some time and read carefully the whole post. I am not and i won`t be responsable for anything. Disclaimer I am not responsible for bricked devices, dead...
forum.xda-developers.com
aIecxs said:
flashing firmware is bad idea, this won't reset vaultkeeper. check RMM/KG state from download mode screen first. btw it's called odin mode (not fastboot mode)
[GUIDE][17.06.2019] RMM/KG bypass - Root/Install TWRP on Exynos Samsung after 2018
UPDATE 17.06.2019 - NEW RMM/KG bypass patch UPDATE 23.02.2019 - Pie and more Please take some time and read carefully the whole post. I am not and i won`t be responsable for anything. Disclaimer I am not responsible for bricked devices, dead...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Knox Guard has to be disabled by connecting to the Internet and checking for updates, and you have to be on stock firmware to do it.
Flashing the OEM firmware won't hurt anything, and is the only way to unlock KG.
Vaultkeeper is disabled by flashing the multidisabler in TWRP.
V0latyle said:
Did you ever see the OEM Unlocking toggle after you unlocked the bootloader?
I assume you -did- unlock the bootloader, correct?
OEM Unlocking does not unlock the bootloader, it simply allows you to.
Reflashing the firmware might be a good idea. Keep in mind that Samsung is notorious for trying to disallow custom binaries on newer bootloaders. This is all speculation though, I'd need to see the error you got to have a better idea what the issue is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey thank you once again for your help.
To be clear this is how I recall the events .
1. I did enable OEM unlocking in developer options.
2. I updated the phone through the user interface.
3. OEM unlocking option dissapeared entirely after updating to android 12.
4. Downloaded XAC region firmware using SamFirm
5. Copied AP to my phone storage
6. Patched AP with Magisk, then transferred patched file to my PC.
7. Flashed BL, patched AP, CP and CSC(not home) using ODIN 3.14
ODIN said AUTH fail at Vbmeta on my PC and on the phone iirc.
8.Reflashed using stock AP to make the phone usable again.
At downloader screen I never saw hold volume up to unlock bootloader, only press up to continue. (after booting holding volume up+down+power)
Are KG and Vaultkeeper the same thing?
I guess my bootloader is locked and now OEM Unlocking option is gone.
This is the phone currently on latest firmware.
ODIN MODE reads:
FRP LOCK:ON
KG STATUS: CHECKING
MTK SECURE BOOT: ENABLE (0)
sec ctrl status (1)
SECURE DOWNLOAD: ENABLE
Baseband version A037WVLS 3 BVJ1 (bootloader version 3?)
Thanks for all the info, sorry for the messy post and not including all the info required.
I will provide you with the info you request, I do not know how to verify my KG status, it reads checking in ODIN MODE.
I am also not sure of how to identify the region firmware I need, the software version in my about phone says:
SAOMC_SM-A037W_OYV_BMC_12_0004
BMC/BMC/XAC/BMC
I have downloaded both XAC and BMC, both have worked for me.
Ohhh, it's a Mediatek device
Johnhek said:
At downloader screen I never saw hold volume up to unlock bootloader, only press up to continue. (after booting holding volume up+down+power)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The proper way to enter device unlock mode is thus:
Unplug any USB cables, power device off completely
Connect a USB cable to your PC, don't connect it to your phone yet
Hold both Volume buttons, do not press Power, and plug in the USB cable.
The screen should turn on with 3 options: Volume Up for download mode, long press Volume Up for device unlock mode, Volume Down for restart. Release both Volume buttons, then hold Volume Up.
Device should prompt you to confirm you want to unlock. If it prompts you to confirm you want to re-lock, stop! The bootloader is already unlocked.
Johnhek said:
Are KG and Vaultkeeper the same thing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
More or less...Vaultkeeper is the process that determines the Knox Guard status, which in turn is what actually allows custom binaries
Johnhek said:
I guess my bootloader is locked and now OEM Unlocking option is gone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We'll see...
Johnhek said:
KG STATUS: CHECKING
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This means that KG (Knox Guard)/Vaultkeeper hasn't yet verified your device is supposed to be unlocked.
Johnhek said:
MTK SECURE BOOT: ENABLE (0)
sec ctrl status (1)
SECURE DOWNLOAD: ENABLE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there nothing on there that says OEM LOCK?
Johnhek said:
Thanks for all the info, sorry for the messy post and not including all the info required.
I will provide you with the info you request, I do not know how to verify my KG status, it reads checking in ODIN MODE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's exactly how - it tells you in download/Odin mode.
Since it says CHECKING, there are two things we need to do:
Ensure the bootloader is indeed unlocked, using the steps I gave above
Once bootloader is confirmed to be unlocked, you need to boot into Android, connect to the Internet (use a WiFi network), go into Settings > System > System update and check for software updates. This also checks Vaultkeeper/KG.
After checking for software update, enable developer options (if not already enabled) and verify OEM Unlocking is present; it should be grayed out with the message "Bootloader is already unlocked".
The proper way to enter device unlock mode is thus:
Unplug any USB cables, power device off completely
Connect a USB cable to your PC, don't connect it to your phone yet
Hold both Volume buttons, do not press Power, and plug in the USB cable.
The screen should turn on with 3 options: Volume Up for download mode, long press Volume Up for device unlock mode, Volume Down for restart. Release both Volume buttons, then hold Volume Up.
Device should prompt you to confirm you want to unlock. If it prompts you to confirm you want to re-lock, stop! The bootloader is already unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just tried this and there is no mention of unlock bootloader, same as before (volume up to continue) I click to continue and it reads;
PRODUCT NAME: SM-A037WCURRENT BINARY: SAMSUNG OFFICIALFRP LOCK: ONKG STATUS: CHECKING (I never created a samsung account on this phone if that means anything)MTK SECURE BOOT: ENABLE (0)sec ctrl statu (1)WARRANTY VOID: 0x0 (0x0)RP SWREV: B3 NS3 Kb3, Kr3, Vb3, Vbs3 S3SECURE DOWNLOAD: ENABLEMaybe I have to wait 7 days as I have read somewhere before I get the OEM Unlock option back?Thank you for your help
your device is FRP locked. you have to unlock with google account first.
as you updated stock ROM and downgrade is impossible, I doubt you will ever get OEM unlocking back. updating stock ROM was bad idea.
BOUNTY; fix for persistent RMM state lock after 7 days
I've had a situation where RMM state has always been prenormal and OEM unlock been absent for months on Oreo. After updating to Pie, OEM unlock appeared immediately on first boot, but RMM state prenormal was still there and flashing twrp give me...
forum.xda-developers.com
aIecxs said:
your device is FRP locked. you have to unlock with google account first.
as you updated stock ROM and downgrade is impossible, I doubt you will ever get OEM unlocking back. updating stock ROM was bad idea.
BOUNTY; fix for persistent RMM state lock after 7 days
I've had a situation where RMM state has always been prenormal and OEM unlock been absent for months on Oreo. After updating to Pie, OEM unlock appeared immediately on first boot, but RMM state prenormal was still there and flashing twrp give me...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using the device normally and bought the phone new, using the google account i created for it , so i dont understand how this is possible.
Idk maybe FRP LOCK: ON disappears once you removed all bonded samsung and google accounts (maybe not caused by Google Factory Reset Protection but Samsung Reactivation Lock)?
V0latyle said:
I assume you -did- unlock the bootloader, correct?
OEM Unlocking does not unlock the bootloader, it simply allows you to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No he didn't unfortunately. For bootloader unlocking and passing vaultkeeper one have to repeat that step twice, before and after unlocking/factory reset in odin/download mode.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/magisk-root-for-the-galaxy-s10-series.3918699
aIecxs said:
your device is FRP locked. you have to unlock with google account first.
as you updated stock ROM and downgrade is impossible, I doubt you will ever get OEM unlocking back. updating stock ROM was bad idea.
BOUNTY; fix for persistent RMM state lock after 7 days
I've had a situation where RMM state has always been prenormal and OEM unlock been absent for months on Oreo. After updating to Pie, OEM unlock appeared immediately on first boot, but RMM state prenormal was still there and flashing twrp give me...
forum.xda-developers.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Upgrading firmware shouldn't cause problems with OEM Unlocking or unlocking the bootloader. You've stated this a couple of times but have yet to provide any source for your claim.
FRP Lock is simply on because he has a Google account logged in, and has absolutely nothing to do with OEM Unlocking.
@Johnhek you have already connected your device to WiFi, yes? If not, you need to do so, then go to Settings > System > Software update to trigger a check. Once done, go back to Developer Options to see if OEM Unlocking is visible.
If the bootloader wasn't unlockable, the OEM Unlocking toggle would never be present. The toggle controls the state of sys.get_unlock_ability which tells the bootloader it can be unlocked. There are a couple of props that control whether OEM Unlocking is available, ro.oem_unlock_supported which is supposed to be baked into the ROM at build time, and ro.oem_unlock_allowed which determines whether the toggle is available.
I will admit I'm not very familiar with MediaTek Samsung devices, but I don't see why the process would be any different. Still, here is a guide on using MTKClient
Let's just see if we can get the OEM Unlocking toggle back and make KG happy.
V0latyle said:
Upgrading firmware shouldn't cause problems with OEM Unlocking or unlocking the bootloader. You've stated this a couple of times but have yet to provide any source for your claim.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know for SM-A037W but I know about people selling their Samsung phones on Android 10 for buying same model on Android 9 for reason.
Johnhek said:
I did have developer mode active and had seen and allowed oem unlocking, not sure when it disappeared, I think it was the latest update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no official information but there are rumors that from certain security patch Samsung removed OEM unlocking forcefully (USA/Canada devices).
It's also my experience with SM-T555 region DBT still not unlockable as of today.
I think it's common sense when it comes to rooting/unlocking that older android versions are easier to root.
V0latyle said:
FRP Lock is simply on because he has a Google account logged in, and has absolutely nothing to do with OEM Unlocking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For other brands it's not possible to flash anything when FRP Lock is on. Furthermore that state means device is actually FRP locked. Didn't know about Samsung FRP LOCK ON is only information about device is ready for FRP locking, sorry about that...
nevertheless FRP lock is contradictory to OEM unlock, both together is afaik not possible (except for Xiaomi).
btw flashing stock firmware won't unlock RMM/KG prenormal
we will know more about in 7 days...
V0latyle said:
Upgrading firmware shouldn't cause problems with OEM Unlocking or unlocking the bootloader. You've stated this a couple of times but have yet to provide any source for your claim.
FRP Lock is simply on because he has a Google account logged in, and has absolutely nothing to do with OEM Unlocking.
@Johnhek you have already connected your device to WiFi, yes? If not, you need to do so, then go to Settings > System > Software update to trigger a check. Once done, go back to Developer Options to see if OEM Unlocking is visible.
If the bootloader wasn't unlockable, the OEM Unlocking toggle would never be present. The toggle controls the state of sys.get_unlock_ability which tells the bootloader it can be unlocked. There are a couple of props that control whether OEM Unlocking is available, ro.oem_unlock_supported which is supposed to be baked into the ROM at build time, and ro.oem_unlock_allowed which determines whether the toggle is available.
I will admit I'm not very familiar with MediaTek Samsung devices, but I don't see why the process would be any different. Still, here is a guide on using MTKClient
Let's just see if we can get the OEM Unlocking toggle back and make KG happy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@V0latyle hey I have tried those suggestions still no luck. Thank you and happy holidays, I will try waiting 7 days ND let everyone know
aIecxs said:
I don't know for SM-A037W but I know about people selling their Samsung phones on Android 10 for buying same model on Android 9 for reason.
There is no official information but there are rumors that from certain security patch Samsung removed OEM unlocking forcefully (USA/Canada devices).
It's also my experience with SM-T555 region DBT still not unlockable as of today.
I think it's common sense when it comes to rooting/unlocking that older android versions are easier to root.
For other brands it's not possible to flash anything when FRP Lock is on. Furthermore that state means device is actually FRP locked. Didn't know about Samsung FRP LOCK ON is only information about device is ready for FRP locking, sorry about that...
nevertheless FRP lock is contradictory to OEM unlock, both together is afaik not possible (except for Xiaomi).
btw flashing stock firmware won't unlock RMM/KG prenormal
we will know more about in 7 days...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@Alecxs Yea I probably should have left it android 11.
V0latyle said:
I will admit I'm not very familiar with MediaTek Samsung devices, but I don't see why the process would be any different. Still, here is a guide on using MTKClient
Let's just see if we can get the OEM Unlocking toggle back and make KG happy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will read the link tonight , much appreciated
Johnhek said:
@V0latyle hey I have tried those suggestions still no luck. Thank you and happy holidays, I will try waiting 7 days ND let everyone know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can also try disconnecting from the Internet (take out your SIM as well) and set the date back by at least a week. Or you can set it forward.
Johnhek said:
@Alecxs Yea I probably should have left it android 11.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It shouldn't matter, honestly, although I generally prefer to do one thing at a time - unlock the bootloader, THEN update.
I have a feeling that the MediaTek aspect of things may be the issue here, although I have no way of knowing.
Johnhek said:
I will read the link tonight , much appreciated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hopefully it will be of some help to you. It's not beginner friendly - you have to install Python and compile it, but if you can get MTKclient working, you can see if it's what you need.
V0latyle said:
I have a feeling that the MediaTek aspect of things may be the issue here, although I have no way of knowing.
Hopefully it will be of some help to you. It's not beginner friendly - you have to install Python and compile it, but if you can get MTKclient working, you can see if it's what you need.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reading it now, I think I can handle it, the instructions seem clear.
As for the date trick.
I tried it while connected to wifi, I dont even have a sim card in this phone lol.
Tried setting to last month, havent tried forward in time though, will try disconnected as well.
The mediatek thing seems promising, I think the sec ctrl status (1) in the download screen is MTK related...
I will let you know.
I have read in one of the linked threads that SIM card plays a role here. I recommend to enable mobile data for 7 days, although there is less hope.
from what I have learned from elliwigy one can't cheat samsung bootloader not even with mtkclient. there is however paid service for devices with DID token on download screen (afaik Qualcomm only). but try mtkclient first it's a good exercise and maybe you're lucky and it works.
aIecxs said:
I have read in one of the linked threads that SIM card plays a role here. I recommend to enable mobile data for 7 days, although there is less hope.
from what I have learned from elliwigy one can't cheat samsung bootloader not even with mtkclient. there is however paid service for devices with DID token on download screen (afaik Qualcomm only). but try mtkclient first it's a good exercise and maybe you're lucky and it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried mtkcient but I kept getting unauthorized handshake when trying to connect phone :/
Followed instructions as per link but I encounter one error in the process:
Get latest UsbDk 64-Bit
Install normal MTK Serial Port driver (or use default Windows COM Port one, make sure no exclamation is seen)
Get usbdk installer (.msi) from here and install it
Test on device connect using "UsbDkController -n" if you see a device with 0x0E8D 0x0003
Works fine under Windows 10 and 11
I'm on windows 11 and when I put the command "UsbDkController -n" in terminal it doesn't recognize it.
I installed the usbdk drivers from git hub, a .msi fil, from the guide.
Another problem is I don't know how to set windows default COM Port one.