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Friends, sadly the optimus G will have a locked bootloader
http://www.androidcentral.com/official-word-optimus-g-bootloader
And, therefore I won't be buying it. Oh well, I'll wait for a company that wants to play nice.
I'm in no hurry.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
JasonJoel said:
And, therefore I won't be buying it. Oh well, I'll wait for a company that wants to play nice.
I'm in no hurry.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good luck if you're on at&t.
Pretty sure you just have to go straight for an off contract phone.
I hate supporting phones that don't come with unlocked bootloaders by default but, I don't h ave 500$+ to spend.. Especially when I'll be paying the same price for my cellular service either way.
Well I guess we'll just have to wait for the Google announcement on the 29th to see when the Nexus 4comes out huh. After watching the PocketNow review of this phone I was considering it but with a locked bootloader no way.
sent from my Dark Nexus
i know what you feel bro
nyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyanyan
Snow_fox said:
Good luck if you're on at&t.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really... Samsung phones (like the S3) have unlockable boot loader on at&t. As does the HTC One X I'm using (although HTC screwed that up in later releases).
Will probably just go with the Note 2 if it has an unlockable bootloader (which it should).
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
Can someone please explain something. I'm obviously not up on this due to the noob question, but just yesterday there was news that the device is in fact root-able. I assume this is totally different than a locked bootloader? Can the boot loader still be locked, yet rooted? Once rooted, is the device's bootloader unlocked at that time? thanks, guys
Yes u can root even with a locked boot loader. You.just can't flash.custom kernels. Although I.don't know if kexec will work or not. I think the guys that.get the Sprint version will be ok with an unlockable boot loader. I am sure that there is someone with an unlocked boot loader floating around. Kinda like the Verizon s3 got a leak of an unsecured boot loader which let us unlock it Just have to wait.and see what.pops up.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda premium
First... NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Well, I was somewhat expecting this. Oh well. I will sit back and see what happens. Many locked phones have fallen to the powers of the Android community. (I forget what the Korean thread says, but I thought they had cracked their version already.) Only time will tell. I hope it's quick though.
gatorstew said:
Can someone please explain something. I'm obviously not up on this due to the noob question, but just yesterday there was news that the device is in fact root-able. I assume this is totally different than a locked bootloader? Can the boot loader still be locked, yet rooted? Once rooted, is the device's bootloader unlocked at that time? thanks, guys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is this post to give you a little start on the lingo. A google search ought to give you a good explanation quickly.
In short though, to answer your questions from a not-quite-so-noob, "rooting" a device gains you access to the software running on the system. Don't like the bloatware that came on the phone? With root access, you can delete them. You can have root without an unlocked bootloader. (Warranty likely voided.)
The bootloader is the first bit of software that the phone runs when the power is turned on, which loads the OS and such, and passes off control to the OS to boot up.With a locked bootloader, you are basically stuck with the updates (if any) blessed by the manufacturer AND the carrier. Unlocked, you can install customized ROMs, swap kernels, custom recoveries (search "nandroid backup"), and even more warranty voiding goodness. YOU decide "how" your phone works.
Now... If your phone DOES break, both acts can be reversed (some exceptions) so you can pretend you didn't do anything you weren't supposed to be doing, and have your "warranty."
JasonJoel said:
Not really... Samsung phones (like the S3) have unlockable boot loader on at&t. As does the HTC One X I'm using (although HTC screwed that up in later releases).
Will probably just go with the Note 2 if it has an unlockable bootloader (which it should).
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes but, with HTC you are only marginally better off as they provide incredibly small kernel support. My HTC flyer has an officially unlocked bootloader and Dexter has been working on a JB Rom forever and it's still not in a "Factory release" state like other devices.
I don't blame Dexter but, it's pretty sad. Heck, in the One X+ forum there was announcement by a dev openly stated we should be aware it will be hard to dev for before we even consider it.
As far as Samsung goes, I applaud them for supporting the dev community the way they have in the various ways but, their SAMOLED screens are a bit..well dated looking. When they first came out, they were nice because they were brighter, more vibrant, and colorful. Now I really would love to hop on the IPS displays which are sharper.
I was right. Damn you LG! DAMN YOUUUUU!
Guess, I'm sticking with my O4X HD. With the same locked bootloader FTL
Would it be more productive to petition lg or start a bounty.... Or does the locked bootloaders even really matter? My understanding is without kernel sources an email unlocked bootloader isn't only marginally useful.
Sent from my HTC_Flyer_P512_NA using xda app-developers app.
Snow_fox said:
Would it be more productive to petition lg or start a bounty.... Or does the locked bootloaders even really matter? My understanding is without kernel sources an email unlocked bootloader isn't only marginally useful.
Sent from my HTC_Flyer_P512_NA using xda app-developers app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Already have one going on: http://www.change.org/petitions/lg-...opportunity-to-unlock-bootloader-in-lg-phones
So please guys, sign the petition and who knows...somewhere down the road maybe they'll listen and grant our wishes. :crying:
We're already up to 1000+ that already signed...lets get this rolling and share it to every other forum you go to. Thanks in advanced.
How often do petitions actually work?
Sent from my HTC_Flyer_P512_NA using xda app-developers app
Snow_fox said:
How often do petitions actually work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Imagine if <10,000 people signed a petition saying that they wanted McDonald's to stop selling meat products. Yeah, LG probably cares about as much as McDonald's would in that scenario.
Scotty_Two said:
Imagine if <10,000 people signed a petition saying that they wanted McDonald's to stop selling meat products. Yeah, LG probably cares about as much as McDonald's would in that scenario.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I respectfully disagree. LG is not anywhere near HTC, Apple, or Samsung in terms of volume sold. They need all the help they can get and simply cannot afford to lose potential customers. Even HTC and Samsung have been affected by petitions like this. It led HTC to have unlockable bootloaders. Also, in your McDonald's analogy, McDonald's would be losing many customers if they no longer had burgers or other meat products, whereas LG would be gaining customers if they decided to open up a bit. And the community here at XDA (most of whom I would assume are against locked bootloaders) is for the most part, fairly knowledgeable about phones and mobile devices. As we are knowledgeable on the subject, people go to us for advice on their next devices. If LG's bootloaders were unlocked, I can assure you that I (like many other XDA users) would not only purchase the Optimus G for myself, but I would also be much more likely to recommend it. There's ~5 Million members here, of which I would imagine 1-1.5 Million are in the market for a new device. As it offers the best specifications on the market at the moment, I would assume the Optimus G would have to be a thought to most of these people. However, the lack of SD Card support (on the International and Sprint versions), nonremovable battery, and locked bootloaders can potentially deter many of these people from buying it and/or recommending it to their friends, families, and acquaintances and instead, these people could easily opt for roughly equivalent devices made by LG's competitors, such as the One series by HTC and the Galaxy series by Samsung. It never makes business sense to turn away thousands of potential customers, especially when said company is not leading sales figures in the industry.
xboxfanj said:
I respectfully disagree. LG is not anywhere near HTC, Apple, or Samsung in terms of volume sold. They need all the help they can get and simply cannot afford to lose potential customers. Even HTC and Samsung have been affected by petitions like this. It led HTC to have unlockable bootloaders. Also, in your McDonald's analogy, McDonald's would be losing many customers if they no longer had burgers or other meat products, whereas LG would be gaining customers if they decided to open up a bit. And the community here at XDA (most of whom I would assume are against locked bootloaders) is for the most part, fairly knowledgeable about phones and mobile devices. As we are knowledgeable on the subject, people go to us for advice on their next devices. If LG's bootloaders were unlocked, I can assure you that I (like many other XDA users) would not only purchase the Optimus G for myself, but I would also be much more likely to recommend it. There's ~5 Million members here, of which I would imagine 1-1.5 Million are in the market for a new device. As it offers the best specifications on the market at the moment, I would assume the Optimus G would have to be a thought to most of these people. However, the lack of SD Card support (on the International and Sprint versions), nonremovable battery, and locked bootloaders can potentially deter many of these people from buying it and/or recommending it to their friends, families, and acquaintances and instead, these people could easily opt for roughly equivalent devices made by LG's competitors, such as the One series by HTC and the Galaxy series by Samsung. It never makes business sense to turn away thousands of potential customers, especially when said company is not leading sales figures in the industry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mostly agree with your points. I do, however, think that the whole purpose of OEMs locking their bootloaders is to deter people from prolonging the life of their phone and not to protect people from bricking them. Because let's face it, 99.9% of people that even know what a bootloader is in the first place will probably be able to flash their phone without bricking it and exchanging it for a new one at the OEMs expense. So, with that in mind, it only seems logical that an OEM would lock the bootloader to prevent people from taking things into their own hands with such a powerhouse phone that could last for years with proper software updates (that will undoubtedly not happen in a timely manner from LG for more than the first year, if that). They want people to like the phone, be at the mercy of LG for updates, and when those updates end, buy a new LG phone and repeat. So with this standard model, I just don't see how they could care about the very small (in comparison to the general public) development community. Just my thoughts though, I really have no idea what LG's strategy is or what will end up happening.
Scotty_Two said:
I mostly agree with your points. I do, however, think that the whole purpose of OEMs locking their bootloaders is to deter people from prolonging the life of their phone and not to protect people from bricking them. Because let's face it, 99.9% of people that even know what a bootloader is in the first place will probably be able to flash their phone without bricking it and exchanging it for a new one at the OEMs expense. So, with that in mind, it only seems logical that an OEM would lock the bootloader to prevent people from taking things into their own hands with such a powerhouse phone that could last for years with proper software updates (that will undoubtedly not happen in a timely manner from LG for more than the first year, if that). They want people to like the phone, be at the mercy of LG for updates, and when those updates end, buy a new LG phone and repeat. So with this standard model, I just don't see how they could care about the very small (in comparison to the general public) development community. Just my thoughts though, I really have no idea what LG's strategy is or what will end up happening.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know.. I think the bold part is also problematic. While it is a great "theoretical" strategy... the amount of people you piss off is potentially enough that they will never buy your device again.
Back when my Captivate was younger, despite there being many solid ROM options, people were still outraged the phone didn't receive prompt manufacturer provided updates.
Despite the whole "if people knew how to unlock bootloaders, bricks would happen left and right!" argument that I've seen circulating for the last 2 years.. the reality is if people know their warranty is voided, they either do or don't care. If unlocking the bootloader and rooting the phone were just a few ABD commands that would be all the litmus test needed really.
The reality is if people can use ABD then they are probably technically proficient enough to install a custom ROM. If they are too scared for their warranty/afraid of entering commands by text, they are probably not going to want to install a custom rom anyway.
Snow_fox said:
You know.. I think the bold part is also problematic. While it is a great "theoretical" strategy... the amount of people you piss off is potentially enough that they will never buy your device again.
Back when my Captivate was younger, despite there being many solid ROM options, people were still outraged the phone didn't receive prompt manufacturer provided updates.
Despite the whole "if people knew how to unlock bootloaders, bricks would happen left and right!" argument that I've seen circulating for the last 2 years.. the reality is if people know their warranty is voided, they either do or don't care. If unlocking the bootloader and rooting the phone were just a few ABD commands that would be all the litmus test needed really.
The reality is if people can use ABD then they are probably technically proficient enough to install a custom ROM. If they are too scared for their warranty/afraid of entering commands by text, they are probably not going to want to install a custom rom anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's how it is on the Nexus series (simple ADB commands), which I doubt is bricked any more than on any other devices.
Back to Scotty's post, I really don't think LG wants to update these phones (that's what the development community is for), so I don't think their goal is to keep you on their software. I don't think the custom software is supposed to serve any purpose but to make people buy the devices in the first place. I do agree that they're concerned that unlocked bootloaders make people more likely to brick (which is likely not true since it's the same people unlocking bootloaders on locked devices as the people who install custom ROMs on others). I actually think that locking bootloaders makes people trying to unlock them more likely to brick in the process. CM ROMs actually make things easier on their update team since the people who care about the OS version are typically the first to try custom ROMs. At the very least, I would like for LG to implement a similar strategy to HTC and Motorola where they keep track of people who unlock, but give a free, painless method. This would make everyone (LG and us) fairly happy.
If there is going to be a lg nexus phone wouldn't it be much easier to unlock the boot loader and have kernel sources? The hardware is the same
I'm on the fence between waiting for the N5 or getting the OG Pro.
Is the OG Pro difficult to root, flash custom recovery, CM 10.2, etc? (That's what I really want the device for)
Is the bootloader locked?
Any basic suggestions or tips would be appreciated.
The boot loader is locked. However, there is a work around called "Loki", hence the roms, which btw run great on the G Pro.
But I'd advise you to wait for the N5 due to it having a fully unlocked boot loader , more accessories and more support by both Google and XDA.
I will buy one for sure.
donalgodon said:
I'm on the fence between waiting for the N5 or getting the OG Pro.
Is the OG Pro difficult to root, flash custom recovery, CM 10.2, etc? (That's what I really want the device for)
Is the bootloader locked?
Any basic suggestions or tips would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OG Pro is simple to root, both cwm and twrp recoveries are easily available and working, and there is an official CM 10.2 available which is a nightly, so daily updates
So if these are your only considerations, you can buy the OG Pro with your eyes closed.
Sent from my LG-E980 using Tapatalk
vivebatu said:
OG Pro is simple to root, both cwm and twrp recoveries are easily available and working, and there is an official CM 10.2 available which is a nightly, so daily updates
So if these are your only considerations, you can buy the OG Pro with your eyes closed.
Sent from my LG-E980 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My only concern is that I don't know if the 980H is the same as the 980.
The 980H is the Panama version, the ROM from which is a popular flash option for this model in a Stock ROM. I'm actually in Panama, and this is where I'll purchase.
What about the root, recovery options? Should I use the one's for the 980? I don't see any for the H variant.
donalgodon said:
I'm on the fence between waiting for the N5 or getting the OG Pro.
Is the OG Pro difficult to root, flash custom recovery, CM 10.2, etc? (That's what I really want the device for)
Is the bootloader locked?
Any basic suggestions or tips would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OG Pro is a GREAT Device in its own way. If you need Removable battery, Micro SD slot then this device is suitable.
N5 has is pros and cons. U get latest S800 processor, direct updates from google, but only 16 or 32GB storage and non removable 2300 mah of N5 is no near to 3140mah of OGP. And LG will MOSTLY update OGP to 4.4 Kitkat by end of this year.
It is easy to flash custom roms on this device, well easier than HTC phones and there is going to be lot of development in future for this device. This device also have OFFICIAL support from Cyanogen mod team.(Correct me if i'm wrong).
For me OGP is better option than most of the other phones out there right now.
StarkV5 said:
OG Pro is a GREAT Device in its own way. If you need Removable battery, Micro SD slot then this device is suitable.
N5 has is pros and cons. U get latest S800 processor, direct updates from google, but only 16 or 32GB storage and non removable 2300 mah of N5 is no near to 3140mah of OGP. And LG will MOSTLY update OGP to 4.4 Kitkat by end of this year.
It is easy to flash custom roms on this device, well easier than HTC phones and there is going to be lot of development in future for this device. This device also have OFFICIAL support from Cyanogen mod team.(Correct me if i'm wrong).
For me OGP is better option than most of the other phones out there right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't you think that LG will eventually patch the bootloader exploit and end the party?
That's what bothers me about it, because Samdung did basically the same thing recently with Knox.
donalgodon said:
Don't you think that LG will eventually patch the bootloader exploit and end the party?
That's what bothers me about it, because Samdung did basically the same thing recently with Knox.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
with custom roms we don't need official OTA updates anymore plus they're slow with the updates anyway
solaris2k said:
with custom roms we don't need official OTA updates anymore plus they're slow with the updates anyway
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just as long as those features aren't tied to the bootloader, then there's no problem, but if the case of Samdung's Knox bootloaders have illustrated anything, it's that this is always an option.
Without the Knox bootloader, 4.3 update broke Wi-Fi, Sound, etc. It's what pushed me to sell the S4 and be done with Samdung once and for all.
donalgodon said:
Just as long as those features aren't tied to the bootloader, then there's no problem, but if the case of Samdung's Knox bootloaders have illustrated anything, it's that this is always an option.
Without the Knox bootloader, 4.3 update broke Wi-Fi, Sound, etc. It's what pushed me to sell the S4 and be done with Samdung once and for all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well Samdung are floating in the sky because of lots of sales and huge profit (about $10 billion i guess!!) so they don't care about the developer community and moving against it like Apple. Samdung is not apple but they don't understand it. they want to provide security on their devices like Apple does. Thats what they are trying with something called Knox bootloaders. This is one of the reason that kept me away from getting a Note 3. LG has long way to go before they become like Samdung. So i wouldn't worry about it for atleast 2 years! LOL
StarkV5 said:
Well Samdung are floating in the sky because of lots of sales and huge profit (about $10 billion i guess!!) so they don't care about the developer community and moving against it like Apple. Samdung is not apple but they don't understand it. they want to provide security on their devices like Apple does. Thats what they are trying with something called Knox bootloaders. This is one of the reason that kept me away from getting a Note 3. LG has long way to go before they become like Samdung. So i wouldn't worry about it for atleast 2 years! LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, their protection scheme is similar. I forgot what they call it, but it's all the same sort of sham. It releases the corporation from liability for warranty service, regardless of what the issue is, if the "protection" flag is tripped.
I find myself dreaming often about what it would be like if a company (like LG, which is smaller than the competition) threw everything they had behind the Open Source and Development community and just made their devices with folks like us XDA members in mind! How many millions of us are there now? We probably buy more gadgets as a group than any other segment of the global population as a whole, yet we are basically ignored and treated like criminals.
donalgodon said:
I find myself dreaming often about what it would be like if a company (like LG, which is smaller than the competition) threw everything they had behind the Open Source and Development community and just made their devices with folks like us XDA members in mind! How many millions of us are there now? We probably buy more gadgets as a group than any other segment of the global population as a whole, yet we are basically ignored and treated like criminals.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True!!! But the companies always think about the mass market first who are non-tech people who just buy and use the phone as it is..
The issue is warranty! when the phone is being used for development there is always risk of hard brick unless u know what you are doing with the phone. They don't want people messing their devices themselves and claim warranty for it. That is why the bootloaders are locked and flagged if unlocked for development purposes.
Which device did u decide to buy anyway??
StarkV5 said:
True!!! But the companies always think about the mass market first who are non-tech people who just buy and use the phone as it is..
The issue is warranty! when the phone is being used for development there is always risk of hard brick unless u know what you are doing with the phone. They don't want people messing their devices themselves and claim warranty for it. That is why the bootloaders are locked and flagged if unlocked for development purposes.
Which device did u decide to buy anyway??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's the reality, but I think there's a situation where companies can say, "Look, here's literally everything you need. All the documentation, sources, drivers, binaries... everything. You can play with your device all you want, but you assume that responsibility if something goes wrong." Then, they ought to make the flashing and modding tools part of the package. Make them robust, and invest in safe flashing systems. Fewer issues as a result.
I don't think it's fair that companies should be made to pay for stupidity, and I accept it as a cost of doing what we all love to do. This is what I thought the "Google Edition" devices were going to be all about, but even there, we still face a situation where so many things aren't provided properly.
I am hunting down a E980. To me, it represents the best value for the money right now. My plan is to use the Loki bootloader exploit, slap CM 10.2 on it and never look back. In fairness, LG's UI is a bit too colorful for my tastes, but it isn't anywhere near as hideous as Samdung's Touchwiz circus clowns on acid abomination.
donalgodon said:
I am hunting down a E980.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice! :good:
I'm sure you will have great time with the device.
donalgodon said:
My only concern is that I don't know if the 980H is the same as the 980.
The 980H is the Panama version, the ROM from which is a popular flash option for this model in a Stock ROM. I'm actually in Panama, and this is where I'll purchase.
What about the root, recovery options? Should I use the one's for the 980? I don't see any for the H variant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bump
Sent from my One X using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
is it possible to get a used R800 for around 60 USD?
i don't think so
used xperia plays are about 100$ i think
and also i will tell you don't buy this phone
but an arc instead of this phone
xperia play section is dead
I'm pretty sure you can look on eBay for Plays. The R800x's sell for steroids 60 and below.
Sent from my SM-N900T using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
R800x are dirt cheap on eBay, you can get it for even less than $60. It's a lot easier top unlock them the R800a version too.
Don't listen to the guy in second post. Not even sure why you're in a forum of the same device you're telling others to not buy. So what if there are no more updates, doesn't mean the device is useless. Besides it's incorrect to say there are n I devs working on it.
sent via tapatalk
im on this device because i made a mistake
i didnt buy galaxy s2 when i could and now i have to deal with my phone (now the touchscreen is broken and im going to move to nexus 5 soon)
i only told him my experience
when he can buy an arc with the same price what can cause him to buy xperia play?
being much heavier or the old 2.3 android or its ancient kernel?
I bought the Xperia play in August this year because it was a sale (100$) new and I needed a new phone. I actually regret this choice I thought more. Developers would work on this amazing device .
Dont blame it on the devs, blame it on sony for not releasing sources
Sent from my GN5 [D821] using XDA Premium
Be happy that there are devs even making roms for it, you aren't self entitled to any of it.
This phone work fine if you know how to customise it. Unlock the bootloader and install NXT rom, it work great if you don't mind sticking with Gingerbread.
sent via tapatalk
pedyvirus said:
i don't think so
used xperia plays are about 100$ i think
and also i will tell you don't buy this phone
but an arc instead of this phone
xperia play section is dead
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
... i don't.... you realise the arc has no physical controls and will suck for playing games and emulators right?
eksasol said:
R800x are dirt cheap on eBay, you can get it for even less than $60. It's a lot easier top unlock them the R800a version too.
Don't listen to the guy in second post. Not even sure why you're in a forum of the same device you're telling others to not buy. So what if there are no more updates, doesn't mean the device is useless. Besides it's incorrect to say there are n I devs working on it.
sent via tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do need the AT&T version to work with my sim.
i was looking at this one but, wasn't sure if it was stole and or could even be re used.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/att-sony-er...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
friend said if it was stolen it could be blocked form the AT&T network.
Also what features do the modded roms provide? overclocking? are they lighter? support newer apps?
cdoublejj said:
... i don't.... you realise the arc has no physical controls and will suck for playing games and emulators right?
I do need the AT&T version to work with my sim.
i was looking at this one but, wasn't sure if it was stole and or could even be re used.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/att-sony-er...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
friend said if it was stolen it could be blocked form the AT&T network.
Also what features do the modded roms provide? overclocking? are they lighter? support newer apps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to be careful buying from ebay. There are scenario where you can get a device that work now, then 2months later gets blocked by the carrier because the owner stopped paying his bills.
It's better if its a retailer with good feedbacks and accept returns. If it's possible, ask the person for the imei number so you can check it background, or ask him to check it and post a screenshot. You can check imei and esn numbers via these sites:
http://sndeep.info/en
http://checkesnfree.com
Also if you buy from swappa.com, they auto check imei number for all devices, however, again, it doesn't prevent the phone from being blacklisted if the owner of the phone is still in a contract and stopped paying.
You will want to get the R800a version since the R800i version will not work with 3G for ATT. I have owned all 3 versions, last I check, you can only unlock bootloader from Sony website for the R800i and R800x, not R800a. However, this website can unlock both sim and bootloader for the R800a I believe: http://www.wotanserver.com/en/sony-ericsson/xperia-play-r800/unlock-tool/debranding-flash
You basically get improved performance and more software features with custom roms. From my experience using Gingerbread custom roms like NXT gives best performance. Because lack of support from Sony and Qualcomm, ICS and JB roms aren't as fast.
You can check these guides for all the instruction with unlocking and installing rom: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1836530
You need to unlock bootloader, flash a custom kernel which will have ClockworkMod recovery integrated, boot into CWM recovery and flash the rom. Make sure the kernel you're using is compatible with that rom for it to boot.
eksasol said:
You have to be careful buying from ebay. There are scenario where you can get a device that work now, then 2months later gets blocked by the carrier because the owner stopped paying his bills.
It's better if its a retailer with good feedbacks and accept returns. If it's possible, ask the person for the imei number so you can check it background, or ask him to check it and post a screenshot. You can check imei and esn numbers via these sites:
http://sndeep.info/en
http://checkesnfree.com
Also if you buy from swappa.com, they auto check imei number for all devices, however, again, it doesn't prevent the phone from being blacklisted if the owner of the phone is still in a contract and stopped paying.
You will want to get the R800a version since the R800i version will not work with 3G for ATT. I have owned all 3 versions, last I check, you can only unlock bootloader from Sony website for the R800i and R800x, not R800a. However, this website can unlock both sim and bootloader for the R800a I believe: http://www.wotanserver.com/en/sony-ericsson/xperia-play-r800/unlock-tool/debranding-flash
You basically get improved performance and more software features with custom roms. From my experience using Gingerbread custom roms like NXT gives best performance. Because lack of support from Sony and Qualcomm, ICS and JB roms aren't as fast.
You can check these guides for all the instruction with unlocking and installing rom: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1836530
You need to unlock bootloader, flash a custom kernel which will have ClockworkMod recovery integrated, boot into CWM recovery and flash the rom. Make sure the kernel you're using is compatible with that rom for it to boot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you say that as if it might be difficult or impossible to unlock the boot loader unless i pay some one? also are you saying all the aftermarket roms are slower than the stock rom? does it even mater since it can be overclocked with 3rd party rom?
cdoublejj said:
you say that as if it might be difficult or impossible to unlock the boot loader unless i pay some one?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To unlock the bootloader of a R800a there is a unlock code that needed to be purchased from Sony themselves, that is why the service cost money. You either have to go through Sony or pay a third party service, those are the only options.
also are you saying all the aftermarket roms are slower than the stock rom? does it even mater since it can be overclocked with 3rd party rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is not what I am saying, I'm saying GB run faster on this device from my experience only, compared to ICS and newer. There were never any official ICS release for the Play except a beta ICS version which ran poorly, the phone was stop being updated with Gingerbread. Sony and Qualcomm doesn't release some of the required hardware drivers for ICS/JB which is why its hard to make those version run fast.
You should have researched this device a little more before buying.
eksasol said:
To unlock the bootloader of a R800a there is a unlock code that needed to be purchased from Sony themselves, that is why the service cost money. You either have to go through Sony or pay a third party service, those are the only options.
That is not what I am saying, I'm saying GB run faster on this device from my experience only, compared to ICS and newer. There were never any official ICS release for the Play except a beta ICS version which ran poorly, the phone was stop being updated with Gingerbread. Sony and Qualcomm doesn't release some of the required hardware drivers for ICS/JB which is why its hard to make those version run fast.
You should have researched this device a little more before buying.
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Click to collapse
Thank you for the information and the clarification. This sort of is my research. Half of the research was know what phone i'd want and one that works with AT&T. a side from androids with slide out keyboards this is the only option with physical controls and the only one that has controls good for gaming. that and the fact it has single core and can play games is all i really know about it. i figured it wasp popular enough to have some roms for it but, that's it.
i'll take a look at the cost of the unlock service assuming i don't have to mail it to the UK (live in US). i'll consider the unlock price and try to find a cheap r800a/r800at.
Your info has been REALLY helpful aside from my current crap Pantec P8000 my last serious smart phone was the 2006 Black Jack. Suffice to say iv'e been out of the phone game for a while.
cdoublejj said:
Thank you for the information and the clarification. This sort of is my research. Half of the research was know what phone i'd want and one that works with AT&T. a side from androids with slide out keyboards this is the only option with physical controls and the only one that has controls good for gaming. that and the fact it has single core and can play games is all i really know about it. i figured it wasp popular enough to have some roms for it but, that's it.
i'll take a look at the cost of the unlock service assuming i don't have to mail it to the UK (live in US). i'll consider the unlock price and try to find a cheap r800a/r800at.
Your info has been REALLY helpful aside from my current crap Pantec P8000 my last serious smart phone was the 2006 Black Jack. Suffice to say iv'e been out of the phone game for a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You won't have to mail in the device, I didn't use the WotanServer service, but other members have tried with success, it should be something you can do using their software.
The only difficult part is getting the drivers recognized by your PC. I was not able to get the drivers recognized with Windows 8, you might have to use Windows 7 or older. The unlocking software will have the drivers included though. But if you read through the flashing guides I linked it should show you how to install the necessary drivers.
Personally I don't use the Play as my daily driver, but as a back up. A lot of apps I use required Android 4+, and I only feel Android 2.x is fast enough on this device for me, but others might disagree. It's not fast enough to play many of the newer graphic demanding games smoothly, but for 2D and not too demanding games it's a winner.
There are several hardware issues that can occur with this phone like the 'flex cable' going bad, which is the cable that connect between to two halves of the phone. But honestly I've never had that issue from the 5 Play that I used. It's actually one of the more durable smartphone I've used even with the sliding mechanism. If you get protection accessories for it and be careful each time you side out the gamepad it should last. It have one of the most durable microUSB port for an Android phone I think.
Also it have excellent stereo speaker. The R800i/R800a version have pretty decent GPS signal, since it also support GLONASS. The R800x do not support GLONASS and have poorer signal.
My preferred idea is still to buy a cheap Verizon R800x for $60 or less, which bootloader can be unlocked from Sony website. Then buy a better daily driver phone. One thing you should know about the R800x is that it can run any of the GSM (R800i/R800a) Gingerbread roms and most kernels, you lose calling ability with GSM roms but you won't be using Verizon anyway. For ICS/JB/KitKat roms, there are usually CDMA version for it as well. It's pretty hard to brick to this device, you can always use Flashtool to restore factory stock image. I feel the R800x version is fastest since it actually use stock Android, compared to the R800i/a which uses Sony UI overlay. It's "fast" even with stock rom and stock kernel, just rooting and deleting bloatwares are enough. You don't need unlocked bootloader to root.
well if i was gonna carry 2 devices i'd just get a used PSP (possibly for free).
it isn't too bad performance wise i've seen it play crazy taxi and GTA III and jetset radio which are them sot demanding android games i want. i've also seen it play Need for Speed 3 on the PS1 emulator. also you can overclock on the custom roms.
it's also said it has long battery life, i may have read that in this thread 9o've had a long evening). I've replaced a flex cable in A* phone before so it breaks i'm not be SOL.
My newly obstacle is getting it on the cheap.
the only thing i'm un sure about is the on screen keyboard. i have a low resolution device and tend to the use physical keyboard more than the screen. i know R800 is higher resolution than the device i have now so maybe i will be able to cope. not a bad trade off consider all the other pluses and pro vs the cons.
EDIT: too bad they never made the PSP phone 2.
cdoublejj said:
well if i was gonna carry 2 devices i'd just get a used PSP (possibly for free).
it isn't too bad performance wise i've seen it play crazy taxi and GTA III and jetset radio which are them sot demanding android games i want. i've also seen it play Need for Speed 3 on the PS1 emulator. also you can overclock on the custom roms.
it's also said it has long battery life, i may have read that in this thread 9o've had a long evening). I've replaced a flex cable in A* phone before so it breaks i'm not be SOL.
My newly obstacle is getting it on the cheap.
the only thing i'm un sure about is the on screen keyboard. i have a low resolution device and tend to the use physical keyboard more than the screen. i know R800 is higher resolution than the device i have now so maybe i will be able to cope. not a bad trade off consider all the other pluses and pro vs the cons.
EDIT: too bad they never made the PSP phone 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The R800i/a stock keyboards have gesture typing, but its not very good. But you can buy Swype keyboard which is pretty good, maybe Swiftkey support Gingerbread as well. A lot of Play and other Sony devices have a layer of screen protector installed by the manufacturer, removing it can help with the touch sensitivity and sometimes viewing angle.
This device does have decent battery life, but you should get a new battery.
Looking to get the 3XL when it comes out through Verizon. Most likely Verizon is going to run a buy one get one with adding on a new line in.
With the phone being stock Android already but with a Verizon locked bootloader is it more beneficial to give up the buy-one-get-one and just buy an unlocked one through Verizon? If I go the buy-one-get-one route myself and my brother-in-law are going to be splitting the retail cost of the one we have to buy
EDIT 10/13/2018
Come to find out we cannot have any more smartphones on our line with it being a special plan that it is. So we can't take advantage of the buy one get one
If you want root, then do not buy the Verizon version. On all previous Verizon Pixel devices "OEM unlocking" in developer options has been disabled. With that disabled you can't unlock the bootloader. With a locked bootloader you can't install TWRP. Without TWRP you can't install Magisk. Without Magisk you have no root.
If having root is not important to you, then feel free to go for the Verizon version.
Face_Plant said:
If you want root, then do not buy the Verizon version. On all previous Verizon Pixel devices "OEM unlocking" in developer options has been disabled. With that disabled you can't unlock the bootloader. With a locked bootloader you can't install TWRP. Without TWRP you can't install Magisk. Without Magisk you have no root.
If having root is not important to you, then feel free to go for the Verizon version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know the whole locked bootloader, TWRP stuff. It's probably been since my Google Nexus and I believe my Note 4 or 5 that I messed with rooting, unlocked bootloaders and roms LOL
But with it being stock pure Google is there really anything truly beneficial to having the unlocked bootloader to allow for rooting possibilities. I used to root my phone's just to run custom roms to get rid of them bloatware that other manufacturers put on it. But since the pixel doesn't have a bloat or skin overlay, is there a real reason for rooting capabilities?
Androider4Life said:
I know the whole locked bootloader, TWRP stuff. It's probably been since my Google Nexus and I believe my Note 4 or 5 that I messed with rooting, unlocked bootloaders and roms LOL
But with it being stock pure Google is there really anything truly beneficial to having the unlocked bootloader to allow for rooting possibilities. I used to root my phone's just to run custom roms to get rid of them bloatware that other manufacturers put on it. But since the pixel doesn't have a bloat or skin overlay, is there a real reason for rooting capabilities?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's always good reasons to root. Ad blocking is the number one thing that comes to mind. Utilities like Better Battery Stats to see what's killing your battery, Titanium Backup to backup your apps or uninstall system apps, WakeBlock to block or limit wakelocks so your phone isn't waking up every 10 seconds to send analytics data to Facebook/Twitter/Google when it should be sleeping, etc.
Google phones still come with bloat, it's just not as bad as Samsung or LG phones. For example, my 6P came with a ton of Google apps installed (Play Games, Hangouts, Play Movies, Docs, Slides, and **** ton more) that I would probably never use or have a desire to use. Sure you can disable most of them, but I'd rather remove them entirely.
These are the best reasons for rooting. Ad blocking is a good one, and I just enjoyed flashing new and different roms. It was fun - there was a new cm nightly every day to flash. I've got away from that partly because of less development and partly because stock android is pretty good as is. New features like android pay are very security conscious and don't play well with root. It's up to you if you want to give up the ability to root. Half price on the phone is pretty tempting. If you can't handle staying stock you could probably get your price out of the phone on Swappa and buy from Google. If there is any development to get in to. I've been stock the past year and am happy with that.
dmb219 said:
These are the best reasons for rooting. Ad blocking is a good one, and I just enjoyed flashing new and different roms. It was fun - there was a new cm nightly every day to flash. I've got away from that partly because of less development and partly because stock android is pretty good as is. New features like android pay are very security conscious and don't play well with root. It's up to you if you want to give up the ability to root. Half price on the phone is pretty tempting. If you can't handle staying stock you could probably get your price out of the phone on Swappa and buy from Google. If there is any development to get in to. I've been stock the past year and am happy with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did not think about the swappa thing. May be a good idea depending on what it's going for on there when it releases.
If I would stick with the Verizon variant, I would just need to stay off XDA and not read "what I could be doing with the unlocked variant" lol.
Androider4Life said:
Looking to get the 3XL when it comes out through Verizon. Most likely Verizon is going to run a buy one get one with adding on a new line in.
With the phone being stock Android already but with a Verizon locked bootloader is it more beneficial to give up the buy-one-get-one and just buy an unlocked one through Verizon? If I go the buy-one-get-one route myself and my brother-in-law are going to be splitting the retail cost of the one we have to buy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ill never understand why anyone would buy a device thats locked down if they dont have to.
Absolutely Id go for the nom Verizon version....its a no brainer.
Sent from my Note 9 exynos, S9 plus exynos, Pixel 2 XL or Note FE
Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!
galaxys said:
Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!
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Click to collapse
What he said ^^
galaxys said:
Don't get a locked device, especially if you're hanging out on XDA!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, the fact that you're here is testament to the need for the unlocked Pixel. I've been mostly stock for the last couple years but tinker occasionally. I want the ability to tweak my phone even if I choose not to, especially if there is some development going on. I hope there is some life left in the Pixel community here, it's been kind of quiet. The phone is more difficult to mod and to be honest, the stock software is hard to improve on.
dmb219 said:
Yea, the fact that you're here is testament to the need for the unlocked Pixel. I've been mostly stock for the last couple years but tinker occasionally. I want the ability to tweak my phone even if I choose not to, especially if there is some development going on. I hope there is some life left in the Pixel community here, it's been kind of quiet. The phone is more difficult to mod and to be honest, the stock software is hard to improve on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was my thought too about how stock software is hard to improve on to justify buying unlocked rather than the buy one get one thru Verizon ( if they offer it) and splitting the cost of the one we have to buy.
Androider4Life said:
That was my thought too about how stock software is hard to improve on to justify buying unlocked rather than the buy one get one thru Verizon ( if they offer it) and splitting the cost of the one we have to buy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have Verizon but if I got a Pixel for half price thru my carrier I might be on that. My son has Verizon and gets his phone free from his work. He was a hacker too but has been good with a stock Pixel XL since he got it. Monthly updates - hard to beat stock on the Pixels.
As others have mentioned, having an unlocked phone generally means you are able to root the device. However, I couldn't help but noticing Google's new Titan chip that is claiming to securing passwords and the OS. My question is, how is this new "chip" going to play with "rooting" the device. Will simply having an unlocked device bypass this new Titan chip?
At this moment Verizon's 128gb model is 30$ more at 1029.99 with 9% tax 1122.69 plus $30 upgrade fee. Total $1,152.69
Google's version is 999.99 with 9% tax $1089.99
So all in all with tax one is saving over roughly 62$
Verizon is doing BOGO on the 64gb only, and offering a wireless stand. Even without the BOGO it equalizes out.
I don't need the BOGO so buying from Google is cheaper for me
I haven't rooted in YEARS. The last phone I rooted was the 1+2. OEM vanilla android is so good now I'm not even tempted. I stopped specifically when I thought about why I was installing ROMs. I wanted one that hid from Android Pay (back in the day) and allowed me to clone my phone if it broke. So, I was installing software from suspect sources to make copies of my device and perform financial transactions... Dafuq was I thinking!
This probably isn't a popular thing to say, but... how much do you really trust random dudes calling themselves "SKREET/|/KLoWnzZ", or some ****, who put together the "(-XxX[DaRTh++KriMzON ].::.KaRBoN.::.SKuLLzZzXxX-)" ROM, anyway? You've probably got some kind of banking data on that phone, right? I'm not saying Devs are crooks, but I'm certain more than one dude out there isn't on the up-and-up, I promise you. Mathematics demands it to be so. My wife would choke the piss out of me if our account got drained because I compromised our data using a hot ROM cooked up in Romania.
NOW, I get unlocked phones so I can carry a blank phone and switch carriers for trips overseas. My Pixel 2XL will replace my Nexus 6 as my travel phone, and the Pixel 3XL will be my main phone
I have been purchasing my phones directly either from Google or HTC, just so I could unlock and root. But I haven''t been rooting, even with an unlocked bootloader. I am probably not going to unlock my Pixel 3XL since I want to use Android Pay, and also play PoGo (I know Magisk can hide it, but it's always a game of cat and mouse.)
Plus, you never know. The original Verizon Pixel was unlockable for a brief time. It's unlikely, but it could happen this time as well.
Androider4Life said:
I know the whole locked bootloader, TWRP stuff. It's probably been since my Google Nexus and I believe my Note 4 or 5 that I messed with rooting, unlocked bootloaders and roms LOL
But with it being stock pure Google is there really anything truly beneficial to having the unlocked bootloader to allow for rooting possibilities. I used to root my phone's just to run custom roms to get rid of them bloatware that other manufacturers put on it. But since the pixel doesn't have a bloat or skin overlay, is there a real reason for rooting capabilities?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since the Nexus? You didn't even unlock the 5X? So the question is should I spend an extra $1000 so I can possibly use Adaware? You won't need Titanium if you're not flashing roms, Better BS works perfectly without root, and there is no bloatware any longer. I understand if these things like flashing roms from Romania (lol that post above is funny) are important to you but you haven't rooted in like what, 5 years now? This is really a no brainer.
---------- Post added at 11:51 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:48 AM ----------
spotmark said:
Plus, you never know. The original Verizon Pixel was unlockable for a brief time. It's unlikely, but it could happen this time as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not gonna happen like it did for that one month. That flaw has been closed. I'm just waiting for a bounty thread for temp root. And I'm wondering even with temp root if you'd be able to unlock the bootloader on this device.
bobby janow said:
Not gonna happen like it did for that one month. That flaw has been closed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm well aware of that, thanks, but I prefer to be optimistic and hope that we may get lucky. When we get them in our hands, we'll know for sure.
spotmark said:
I'm well aware of that, thanks, but I prefer to be optimistic and hope that we may get lucky. When we get them in our hands, we'll know for sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do admire your optimism but they've been at this a long time and it seems they really have it locked down this time. Unless the Pixel 3s have an exploit I just don't see it. I do hope you're right though.
Sent from my [device_name] using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Just out of curiosity. I know in most cases it isn't needed anymore but I've been on phones with locked BLs for about 3 years now so I might end up unlocking mine just to tinker around a little bit. Assuming we will be able to of course.
Right now I would say no - don't see a reason to. But I don't even know if I'll get this phone for sure I love tinkering with phones though. So on second thought If I do buy it, then I'll probably end up unlocking & rooting it at some point.
Root ofc, but who would need custom ROMs on a Pixel with 5 years of software updates?
xLexip said:
Root ofc, but who would need custom ROMs on a Pixel with 5 years of software updates?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True, I haven't been able to run a custom ROM in 3 or 4 years so I'm behind the times lol. Not sure if there are still any features left in ROMs that stock doesn't have. Some folks just like the feeling of being on something custom. But yeah, I can totally see people just rooting in current times for AdAway and stuff like that.
On this topic, any idea if we'll be able to root and unlock the bootloader since it'll be the new tensor chip? I'm asking because on Samsung devices I remember being able to unlock only the Exynos and not Snapdragon, and I may be asking something silly here. Thanks!
If possible to unlock new chip, then I will root this badboy! Happy Flashing
xLexip said:
Root ofc, but who would need custom ROMs on a Pixel with 5 years of software updates?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
5 years of security updates, not software
This time I've said no but if there is a healthy custom scene then it will be a consideration.
The trade off will be having to see what we lose in unlocking the bootloader and rooting.
DinarQ8 said:
5 years of security updates, not software
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Security updates are also software updates imo.
And Google doesn't just merge the android revisions, they still push some tweaks and fixes afaik.
I will not. I retired my 3XL this spring because I got a free Note 20 Ultra. So no root on it. The only thing I was rooting for was ad blocking and with Brave the few ads I get in apps don't bother me.
With Magisk Hide gone away I don't want to lose my banking apps and such.
FWIW I hate Sammy's software. Drives me crazy.
If the security chip somehow doesn't make it much harder, then sure I'll continue with AdAway and some free tethering. Otherwise, I've made my peace with it. Will grit my teeth and deal with these VPN ad blockers.
TonikJDK said:
I will not. I retired my 3XL this spring because I got a free Note 20 Ultra. So no root on it. The only thing I was rooting for was ad blocking and with Brave the few ads I get in apps don't bother me.
With Magisk Hide gone away I don't want to lose my banking apps and such.
FWIW I hate Sammy's software. Drives me crazy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in this same boat. I feel like I had a Google phone for years.. going from the Nexus line to Pixel and then have the 1XL, 2XL, 3XL and didn't continue to buy because they started making a mid-range device... well now they're back to making a high end phone, but I switched to the S21 Ultra.. Sammy software (One UI) I am not a fan of.. I do miss the simple and clean stock android software, but samsung/vzw has done a good job of getting me the monthly updates, the camera and phone in general is phenomenal.. will be hard to leave this phone especially with no magisk hide
TonikJDK said:
I will not. I retired my 3XL this spring because I got a free Note 20 Ultra. So no root on it. The only thing I was rooting for was ad blocking and with Brave the few ads I get in apps don't bother me.
With Magisk Hide gone away I don't want to lose my banking apps and such.
FWIW I hate Sammy's software. Drives me crazy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I've been running Sammy devices the last 3-4 years waiting on Google to put out something like the P6. I'm so ready to get back on the Pixel train.
batpoil said:
On this topic, any idea if we'll be able to root and unlock the bootloader since it'll be the new tensor chip? I'm asking because on Samsung devices I remember being able to unlock only the Exynos and not Snapdragon, and I may be asking something silly here. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it can be unlocked/rooted, then I plan to buy. If not, I'll have to reconsider. I realize nowadays there's smaller need to flash, but it's kinda a hobby of mine and I like being able to tinker with my device
darbylonia said:
If it can be unlocked/rooted, then I plan to buy. If not, I'll have to reconsider. I realize nowadays there's smaller need to flash, but it's kinda a hobby of mine and I like being able to tinker with my device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the XDA spirit!
znel52 said:
Just out of curiosity. I know in most cases it isn't needed anymore but I've been on phones with locked BLs for about 3 years now so I might end up unlocking mine just to tinker around a little bit. Assuming we will be able to of course.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love to tinker too! Kills the boredom.
batpoil said:
On this topic, any idea if we'll be able to root and unlock the bootloader since it'll be the new tensor chip? I'm asking because on Samsung devices I remember being able to unlock only the Exynos and not Snapdragon, and I may be asking something silly here. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is one hell of a good question. Totally forgotten about the new chip!!
The only reason why I have flashed all my pixels was ad blocking. Nowadays, do you think DNS blocking like dns.adguard.com is good enough to achieve the same result or hosts based blocking is still the king?
I'm using Firefox with ublock origin, so that takes care of the websites, so there's just apps that remain.
Of course now Google is using it's own chip and it remains to be seen if it's a good thing or bad. Some people say it's a good thing, because in theory Google can now provide longer support, since drivers have always been the main issue.
Also lately Google has been making noises about upstreaming Android kernel changes with the eventual goal of just straight up using mainline kernel and modulizing the drivers. That will open possibilities way beyond rooting, more ROM variety, etc.
BL unlocked and root before opening the box.
Under no circumstances I will own a phone (or a computer, for the shake of it) that sends any data to servers of Google, Microsoft, Facebook, Apple, Amazon and the likes.
Cloud is just the marketing shiite to refer to someone else's computer.
Therefore I need root to remove all the crap, to do backups against my own computers, to have a proper firewall that blocks domains and IPs of unwanted servers, and so on.
To date,
Google has always allowed bootloader unlocking on their devices so I do hold out hope that they won't be making a change of tradition there.
They have been pushing OEMs and parts suppliers like Qualcomm to keep updated support for their products and part of that is contributing to providing source (AOSP). Further, as stated above, they are looking to eventually get on mainline Linux kernel if possible and have been going down that road for several years now.
Also let's not forget that Google makes it mandatory to release kernel sources for devices. It's just that not all OEMs comply and Google has never really enforced it for anyone else.
It's just my guess, but I think they will release all the sources and allow bootloader unlock. It would be a pretty massive change in rhetoric otherwise and massively hypocritical if they stopped now.