Recently got an R800at from ebay that was unlocked (first ever smartphone, woo). I was able to use my dad's sim card no problem, and dialing the number for the settings window showed no column stating whether the bootloader was allowed to be unlocked or not - according to some threads I've read, users who had unlocked Plays also had the same experience, leading me to believe my bootloader was indeed unlocked.
After following the Gin2Jellybean guide, I managed to brick my phone today (stuck on sony ericsson text), but restored via downloading a stock rom off the internet and installing via flashboot (the SUS and pc companion were having issues - they said no software was available or I had the most up to date software).
Now it seems I goofed up a second time; I was following the Gin2Jellybean guide again when I realized I was following the version for locked bootloaders! I was already on step 4 to install CWM when I realized this, but I decided to just try to install doomlord kernel v14 as per normal and hope that the doomlord root toolbox from the locked bootloder tutorial that I had used wouldn't conflict with anything.
Upon reading the directions for doomlord kernal v14, I decided to double check that my bootloader was still the same as yesterday (before I had bricked my phone). As it turns out, I now have a column for bootloader, and it says unlocking is not allowed. So what's the deal, was my phone's bootloader actually unlocked in the first place, and if so, why is it not unlocked now? According to this thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1720201), bootloader unlocking is permanent.
Here's the link to the guide I'm following: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1631144
Gonna go take the dog for a walk now and listen to some calm relaxing music... Hopefully I didn't screw myself over here.
So when you typed in that code, you got told that your bootloader can't be unlocked? If this is the case, you would have to pay to have it unlocked by someone such as Alejandrissimo. It may be that your bootloader was never able to be unlocked as i can't think of why that would change
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using xda app-developers app
SIM unlock and bootloader unlock are two very different things, as you've probably found out by now; the r800at models can't be bootloader-unlocked with the free Sony method; you're going to have to pay someone, and it'll cost you at least $20. If you got one of the phones from the guy selling them for $105 on eBay, I'm pretty sure those are SIM-unlocked only.
If you don't want to pay extra, there's nothing wrong with keeping it locked; there're a few ROMs you won't be able to use, and you can't change your kernel, but for the most part you should have a good experience.
FEGuy said:
SIM unlock and bootloader unlock are two very different things, as you've probably found out by now; the r800at models can't be bootloader-unlocked with the free Sony method; you're going to have to pay someone, and it'll cost you at least $20. If you got one of the phones from the guy selling them for $105 on eBay, I'm pretty sure those are SIM-unlocked only.
If you don't want to pay extra, there's nothing wrong with keeping it locked; there're a few ROMs you won't be able to use, and you can't change your kernel, but for the most part you should have a good experience.
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Click to collapse
Everything you said seems to be spot on. The only thing that doesn't add up is why there wasn't anything saying one way or the other whether my bootloader was unlocked yesterday, but now today there is.
And ya, I probably won't end up paying the $20; basically I just wanted to remove bloatware and have a nice looking interface. Besides the question about why there was nothing on my bootloader yesterday, can you say offhand whether my sim should still be unlocked? I don't have one nearby to test.
Go to the dialer and enter *#*#7378423#*#* and go to Service Info -> SIM lock. The bottom line should say SIM 0 if it's unlocked. As for why it wasn't showing the bootloader status, I don't know. I was having the same problem yesterday, on multiple ROMs, so perhaps it was added in some specific update.
Related
Hi everyone
i am brand new to android and just my self a brand new arc from rogers.
what should i do with?
i am one of those guys who really cant sit straight with the default ... lol
thanks
the all in one namaste guide was my first good read...
cryogenix said:
the all in one namaste guide was my first good read...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks alot
do you by chance have a link to it?
and also, i need to unlock it so i can use it on a different carrier
thanks
its stickied at this section. the top thread.
easiest and cheapest way to unlock is to use omnius but this will also unlock your bootloader but it can always be locked again.
here is link to the guide about arc
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1133650
Not much to do except themeing and rooting at the moment for a stable phone.
My suggestion is to just use it as it is because the battery life is awesome with stock ROM. I had timescape and other junk uninstalled.
There is not as much development going on for arc as for the x10 at the moment.
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
If u are willing then check this out-
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1102523
its still in development but .....as u said
i am one of those guys who really cant sit straight with the default ... lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can unlock the bootloader then you should look at installed doomlords kernel... allows you to overclock the CPU.. amongst other things!
thanks everyone for your help
i really appreciate it
i followed the namaste tutorial and now have a rooted arc with 3.0.A.2.181 generic firmware
my next question and probably most important one
how do i unlock the phone to use on a different carrier?
when i insert my sim from other carrier it asks for SIM unlock code? do i have to call them to get this?
thanks again
No mate, you must buy an unlock code from a trusted website.
I highly doubt the carriers will give you an unlock code.
any recommendations for a site to get the unlock code?
Not sure why you bought a brand new locked phone to a carrier you don't use? How strange. Anyway, your carrier should sell you an unlock code. In the UK this is usually GBP15.
I would also avoid fiddling too much with custom firmware - what little exists is very early in development and rather rough. The stock SE firmware is actually very good.
The most I would do if you want to debrand is to flash a generic stock SE ROM and then actually use your phone and enjoy it.
thanks alot
i did flash it with generic rom. so thats good to go
i still dont know why i rooted it because i dont see a use for it so far... will have to wait and see
any experience with Cellunlocker.net?
Yes - I used them. I got the code in the end but it took ages - maybe it will be different now. It was expensive though. Doesn't Omnius-Server unlock phones and you get the bootloader unlocked at the same time - its way cheaper than cellunlocker too.
for unlocking a sim-locked arc in the most cost efficient way and helping the community, contact Blagus for his service.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/member.php?u=2645841
jtdc said:
for unlocking a sim-locked arc in the most cost efficient way and helping the community, contact Blagus for his service.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/member.php?u=2645841
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
eset is blocking this guys website. its harmful
whats the different between simunlock and bootloader unlock?
i want to be able to use it on a different network? which one do i need?
thanks
> eset is blocking this guys website. its harmful
whats the different between simunlock and bootloader unlock?
i want to be able to use it on a different network? which one do i need?
not sure why its blocked but just contact him directly here in xda-forums.
"sim unlock" allows your phone to use any networks and not just where your phone was subsidized from. means can use any sim card and network worldwide. of course if you will just stick to your current provider and not intend to go to other country and use the sims there, maybe you will not need sim unlock. also, a sim unlocked phone has more value in terms of resale.
"bootloader unlock" allows your phone to be programmed to use other software or system which is either a modified form of software from Sony Ericssson (often with enhancement) or even a whole new system for the phone which makes it look and work differently from the original. it is for more technically expert users.
For me, i am ok with Sony Ericsson stock, but I do appreciate the bootloader unlock as it allows me to flash doomlord's kernel makes downclock phone max speed possible to save battery life. it also gives root access already which offers full control of the programs running in the phone.
For your requirement, sim unlock is enough. But I believe Blagus solution when done, does already a sim unlock AND enables the phone to be bootloader unlocked. Note that it just "enables unlocking", its still choice to have it remained in locked state. Because sim locked phones have locked bootloaders and cannot be unlocked using the Sony Ericsson publicly provided procedures.
If I get the Xperia Play sim unlocked, Can I then unlock the bootloader?
if you unlock your bootloader via jinx or alejandrissimo it will unlock your sim at the same time... i used alejandrissimo, very professional and was unlocked in minutes but it is the paid way.
unlocking your sim will not change anything at all to do with your bootloader im afraid, if your sim locked the paid way is the only way - $24 well worth it!!
Looks like thats the way im going to have to go. On the plus side, I get paid tuesday. =)
But yeah, I was just wondering cause I know people were like you cant unlock the bootloader if its a sim locked phone and all this other stuff and I was thinking, What if I called up ATT and got them to unlock the IMEI?
But if that wont change anything, I guess the paid method is how im going to have to go about doing this.
Thanks
If you get it sim unlocked your bootloader will then be allowed to be unlocked.
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk
I believe the bootloader is specific Per-Device.
You can check if you can in your settings, excuse my newbieness,
Settings > Root Status (or something to this effect)
If your bootloader can be unlocked it'll be listed there.
I dont think the status of your SIM (locked or unlocked) affects the bootloader.
DazzaChazza said:
If you get it sim unlocked your bootloader will then be allowed to be unlocked.
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Well... Then I guess Im just gonna call up ATT and get the unlock code. Unlock the phone's sim lock and see if I can, Worse comes to worse, I cant. I still have the paid method available and I havent paid any money what so ever.
SirRudolph said:
I believe the bootloader is specific Per-Device.
You can check if you can in your settings, excuse my newbieness,
Settings > Root Status (or something to this effect)
If your bootloader can be unlocked it'll be listed there.
I dont think the status of your SIM (locked or unlocked) affects the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ive looked there and it doesnt show. Which is what brought my hopes down in the first place but everywhere I looked... it said I cant because the device is simlocked. Which is why i wanna know if getting the sim lock removed would then allow me to access and unlock the Bootloader via FastBoot.
I have never owned a phone that has stopped me from rooting and installing custom roms to it. This is kinda a dissapointment but on the plus side, its a good phone.
Hard to get an unlock code from AT&T Or so I heard, but if you do, if you can tell me what you said, that'd be great.
If you do get an unlock code from them, Cant hurt to try to unlock the bootloader after that.
SirRudolph said:
Hard to get an unlock code from AT&T Or so I heard, but if you do, if you can tell me what you said, that'd be great.
If you do get an unlock code from them, Cant hurt to try to unlock the bootloader after that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im a "Valued" member of ATT. Had them for years. So, They dont question me. As long as youve had the phone on your account for 90 days, they dont bother you if you ask for a unlock code.
I will most likely do this tomorrow and will post the outcome. because like I said, if it just takes unlocking the sim card from ATT to be able to unlock the bootloader... id rather do that.
Im not against paying 24$ to have it done.. but why not try what I can for free first?
Hi everyone, I'm completely new to smartphones, just bought an Xperia Play 800i. I have been keenly reading the forums, going through everything I need to know.
My android version is 2.3.4 and build number is 4.0.2.A.0.42. Phone is network locked.
If you don't mind letting me know, the best way to start is by unlocking the SIM right? Then unlock the bootloader,then custom kernel and flashing?
Your advise would be appreciated.
AFAIK regular SIM unlocking doesn't let you unlock your bootloader.
I've read of people who pay a little or get sim unlock from other methods which isn't enough for the bootloader.
It's just that Alejandrissimo's method unlocks both sim & allows for bootloader (it's a 2 for 1 method).
Hope it helps, and if AT&T gives you a free sim unlock code then give it a shot, but it's said it doesn't work that way.
I'm trying Alejandrissimo's method and I'm lost. Have PM'd him and waiting for his reply. I am not on the AT&T network.
Jhoopes517 said:
Im a "Valued" member of ATT. Had them for years. So, They dont question me. As long as youve had the phone on your account for 90 days, they dont bother you if you ask for a unlock code.
I will most likely do this tomorrow and will post the outcome. because like I said, if it just takes unlocking the sim card from ATT to be able to unlock the bootloader... id rather do that.
Im not against paying 24$ to have it done.. but why not try what I can for free first?
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Click to collapse
Thought that was only T-Mobile. Sadly I dont even have an account with them, Just bought the phone from ebay. So im probably gonna have to spend more to get the thing sim-unlocked.
Oh, look what I found on AT&T's website.
Requirements for monthly wireless plans:
Your wireless service has been active for 90 days or longer
Your account is current and in good standing
Your phone is not sold exclusively by AT&T
Your phone's unlock code is available from the manufacturer
Your phone does not have a long-term exclusive service agreement, or the contract time period has expired
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Click to collapse
I'm stuck at the USB over Network stage, keeps saying server unreachable when I select MY PC. What am I doing wrong? So frustrated!
You can get your Xperia unlocked in less than 10 minutes by Alejandrissimo. When he SIM unlocks your Xperia he will also automatically unlock bootloader.
You can visit his website here.
LFSPovo said:
You can get your Xperia unlocked in less than 10 minutes by Alejandrissimo. When he SIM unlocks your Xperia he will also automatically unlock bootloader.
You can visit his website here.
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Click to collapse
I visited his website, downloaded the zip file, and then I'm stuck not knowing what to do next.
So, you are saying I have to wait for him to respond to my request? So, I guess the USB over Network program will be used by him, to remote unlock my Xperia? I'm cool with that because I want to pay for the service.
i have a play, its android 2.3.4, build 4.0.2.A.0.42, baseband 8x55A-AAABQMAZM-203028D-56, model r800a, rogers is original provider, not unlocked, currently rooted, and service menu says i cannot unlock bootloader,
i want to use cm rom, thats it, dont care about anything else, might want to try the ics leak, but i am not sure at all if i can or where to start,
i started with root, and thats as far as i can figure out...
any advice will be awesome
Well you'd better start off by unlocking your bootloader. Can't have CM otherwise
i was under impression that there is no free method to bootloader unlock a branded, sim locked to rogers r800a on 2.3.4
im already rooted with cwm recovery installed,
but not bootloader unlock
Not free, no, but that's the only way you'd get CM. Sorry
whats currently the cheapest paid method, as im on very tight budget right now
Well you can do a "test point" unlock by contacting Alejandrissimo. He helps people do the unlock remotely, but the program that's used needs 20 or 25 bucks (I forget which) for the unlock credit.
ive tried pm'ing him, but no reply, is there anyone else that can do it for cheap ?
Try Jinx13, hes active and does it for 15GBP or $24US.
Check his profile for his email.
I'm gonna bump this thread, I'm on the same firmware and baseband as the OP. I did contact the first guy mentioned and its 24 USD. Is it not possible to flash to generic firmware with Flashtool and then continue to unlock the bootloader ? I have Root and Sim Unlocked. Thanks
Did you look at Sony's bootloader unlocking method? If you do the service menu check and it says Bootloader Unlock: No, then you'll have to pay. Flashing to any firmware won't make unlocking methods any different.
Okay thanks.
djowett said:
I'm gonna bump this thread, I'm on the same firmware and baseband as the OP. I did contact the first guy mentioned and its 24 USD. Is it not possible to flash to generic firmware with Flashtool and then continue to unlock the bootloader ? I have Root and Sim Unlocked. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash any firmware using flash tool. Download cwm from the market you will have more options. The only way to unlock the boot loader is to pay!!!
You could buy some Omnius credits and do the unlocking yourself without any remote assistance.
The price is probably around the same, maybe a bit less.
here's the site
That's what I used, but I got it for free during an Easter weekend promo.
So apparently my xperia play can not have its boot loader unlocked. I did the *#*# code and the unlocking status screen is missing = can not unlock.
#1: Why is this so? This phone (R800i) was bought new (well I got it used off craigslist, but originally it was bought full price in a SE box, unbranded.)
#2: Is there a 3rd party way to unlock the bootloader? Flashtool or something similar?
EDIT: OK, so I did a search, and found something interesting, seems I might be able to unlock the loader after all so I'll try that later. Has anyone had success in doing so?
I am still interested in question #1 above, why is this unlockable, especially a "bought-in-full", non subsidized, non carrier branded device....
Mines a r800i and I bought mine outright I would of thought your would be still unlockable through Sony's way, someone will reply and help u, I'm hoping to do mine soon but mine says it's unlockable when I put the *#*# in goodluck unlocking yours anyway hope it go's well.
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk
I am trying, REALLY TRYING.....
REALLY
REALLY
REALLY F'ing trying to get the flasher program to work. 1st of all, most hosts are down (multiupload or file gone - zshare), 2nd the github I have no idea how that works. Do I want the binary? Some binaries are just the contents (well code) of a txt file (if that makes sense)...
Ok, SO I think I have what is the flasher program, but my java isn't' being found :banghead:
You could try Omnius for SE, that unlocks the bootloader at the same time as unlocking the sim.
HTH
I have a Xperia Pro on fido running xperia ultimate HD (stock kernal)
Sony's official boot loader unlock said that I can't unlock my boot loader.
SE1 Tool does not work.
Allendrissemo (sorry of I can't spell) told me that my phone hardware is too updated (12W24) and it cannot be unlocked.
Now for my pled...
Is there a way to unlock my boot loader? I want to install CM9 but it comes with a custom kernal. And for that I need am unlocked bootloader. If you have a CM9 with a stock kernal, would it work? Or if I have the stock kernal then can I flash that after flashing CM9 and would it work? But I can't flash .img files cause I don't have fast boot.
That is all. Thanks.
I would appreciate any help.
Also, there does not seem to be an Xperia Pro thread on here so if you guys don't mind promoting this to find out, that would be of great help. Thanks.
Is it OK if I bump?
Bump
Bump
I was in your situation 6 months ago and I just went back to Fido and exchanged the phone within 2 weeks of purchase (using an LG Optimus 2X now that actually has an unlocked bootloader). Like you, I also tried to get Alejandrissimo to unlock my bootloader - didn't work!
Currently, only stock-based custom ROMs can be flashed on a locked bootloader. This applies to all brands, not just Sony.
Even SIM unlocking is in doubt here - I personally couldn't SIM unlock my Xperia via a purchased code (the site cellunlocker.net has never failed me before, except on this one Xperia model). The new security MCUs after 12w14 are tight bastards. Other users were successful with SIM unlock via code, but that did absolutely nothing to allow unlocking of the bootloader.
moral of the story: no matter what country you live in, never get a carrier branded Sony handset! If you really must have a Sony model, the only way to guarantee an unlockable bootloader is to get the stock, unbranded, unlocked model which is expensive.
In other words, if you gotta get a carrier subsidy, avoid Sony. Otherwise, Sony is great at supporting this kind of stuff, too bad most users can't enjoy it due to stupid carriers.
So, there's no hope? I always thought that this XDA community, and its vastness of knowledge would have a solution.
Follow me on twitter @Shivammcool
machoman1337 said:
I was in your situation 6 months ago and I just went back to Fido and exchanged the phone within 2 weeks of purchase (using an LG Optimus 2X now that actually has an unlocked bootloader). Like you, I also tried to get Alejandrissimo to unlock my bootloader - didn't work!
Currently, only stock-based custom ROMs can be flashed on a locked bootloader. This applies to all brands, not just Sony.
Even SIM unlocking is in doubt here - I personally couldn't SIM unlock my Xperia via a purchased code (the site cellunlocker.net has never failed me before, except on this one Xperia model). The new security MCUs after 12w14 are tight bastards. Other users were successful with SIM unlock via code, but that did absolutely nothing to allow unlocking of the bootloader.
moral of the story: no matter what country you live in, never get a carrier branded Sony handset! If you really must have a Sony model, the only way to guarantee an unlockable bootloader is to get the stock, unbranded, unlocked model which is expensive.
In other words, if you gotta get a carrier subsidy, avoid Sony. Otherwise, Sony is great at supporting this kind of stuff, too bad most users can't enjoy it due to stupid carriers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the advice. I would keep that in mind next time
Follow me on twitter @Shivammcool
Thanks
machoman1337 said:
I was in your situation 6 months ago and I just went back to Fido and exchanged the phone within 2 weeks of purchase (using an LG Optimus 2X now that actually has an unlocked bootloader). Like you, I also tried to get Alejandrissimo to unlock my bootloader - didn't work!
Currently, only stock-based custom ROMs can be flashed on a locked bootloader. This applies to all brands, not just Sony.
Even SIM unlocking is in doubt here - I personally couldn't SIM unlock my Xperia via a purchased code (the site cellunlocker.net has never failed me before, except on this one Xperia model). The new security MCUs after 12w14 are tight bastards. Other users were successful with SIM unlock via code, but that did absolutely nothing to allow unlocking of the bootloader.
moral of the story: no matter what country you live in, never get a carrier branded Sony handset! If you really must have a Sony model, the only way to guarantee an unlockable bootloader is to get the stock, unbranded, unlocked model which is expensive.
In other words, if you gotta get a carrier subsidy, avoid Sony. Otherwise, Sony is great at supporting this kind of stuff, too bad most users can't enjoy it due to stupid carriers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this helped and i'll make sure to buy unlocked phones next time