Introduction
Unlocking the Bootloader allows you to install custom firmware on your Android phone and gives you full access privileges to make modifications to the phone. Such modifications could involve changing some of the pre-loaded software or could even include replacing the entire operating system.
Some bootloaders are not locked at all, some can be unlocked using a standard fastboot command, others need an unlock code from the manufacturer. There are also phones that do not include an unlocking method at all and can only be unlocked through a software exploit. These locked down devices will typically stem from a carrier deal.
In this guide I´ll only be covering the unlocking of bootloaders with the standard fastboot command.
Warnings
- Unlocking the bootloader will reset your phone, so make sure you have all your data backed up!
- This might void your warranty with some manufacturers.
- An unlocked bootloader will trip the Play Integrity API (formerly SafetyNet Attestation API) which can cause some services like GPay to stop working.
- This will make your device vulnerable against hackers with physical access to your device, so don´t do this to a device you intend to carry state/company secrets on.
Additional information
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Now you just need to tap the Build number repeatedly, until you get a confirmation message saying "You are now a developer!". I already enabled developer options on my device, so I don´t need to do it again.
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Plug your phone into your computer via the USB-C to USB-A Cable.
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Pull down the notification shade and select Charging this device via USB.
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Select the option File transfer/Android Auto.
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Open the terminal application on your computer with the SDK Platform Tools installed and enter adb devices
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This should trigger a popup on your device. Make sure to have the checkmark ticked and click Accept.
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You can run the command again to check if it worked. It should now say device instead of unauthorized.
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Enter the command adb reboot bootloader
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Wait a couple seconds until your device rebooted into the bootloader, then enter the command fastboot flashing unlock
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You should now see a prompt similar to the one shown in the picture. Use the volume rocker to choose the Unlock the bootloader-option and confirm by pressing the power button.
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To relock your bootloader just run the command fastboot flashing lock
Only lock your bootloader while running stock firmware, or else your device will be bricked!
5 comments
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I'm using a Nokia G60 I was offered.
When I try "fastboot oem unlock" I get:
FAILED (remote: 'Failed to unlock, decrypt failed!')
Please update the guide for such cases.
Thank you
Bruno -
As far as I know, Nokia phones need an unlock code from the manufacturer. I don't have much experience with this, so I suggest you ask/search around on forums like xda developers or reddit. It might even help to directly ask the Nokia support for help. Depending on who you end up with they might even help you out.