Hello everyone
I Bought a SE Arc several months ago. when a bought it, the seller install new firmware to support Persian language. I don't know, what does he exact do. So i am not sure he unlocked my bootloader or not. Is there any simple way to make sure my boot loader is locked or not?
I want update my phone with PC campanion, and I am afraid it brick my phone because I am not sure it is locked.
Thanks in advance.
If you have searched a little, you'd know.
There are plenty of threads about it.
And btw: *#*#7378423#*#* -> service menu.
Thank you but there is something wrong with my phone. I can't check rooting status in service menu.
I checked *#*#7378423#*#* -> service menu --->service info--->configuration
But there is no rooting status! Only IMEI,IMEI software, Available speech codec and working band. there is not " bootloader unlock allowed: yes(no)".
what's the reason?
Does PC companion recognize unlocked bootloader and update it? I mean if boot loader is unlocked and use PC companion to update it, it will update and then the phone will brick or it will not update at all and do not brick?
IMENI said:
Does PC companion recognize unlocked bootloader and update it? I mean if boot loader is unlocked and use PC companion to update it, it will update and then the phone will brick or it will not update at all and do not brick?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Afaik, PCC says it's a unknown device, when the BL is unlocked.
Taken from [Tutorial] Xperia S/P/U/Sola Bootloader Unlocking & Relocking and modified slightly for the ion. I take no credit for this tutorial.
Quick tutorial for unlocking & relocking the bootloader of the Xperia ion.
This is the official way to unlock bootloader
Warning!
This procedure will wipe the /data partition of your phone, so you will loose all ur stored data, settings. SDCARD will NOT BE WIPED!!!
DRM keys WILL be lost forever
Why should I unlock the bootloader?
You can flash custom ROMs/Kernels.
You don't need to worry if the new firmware can be rooted or not as with unlocked bootloader you can always ROOT your device.
SE/Sony gives sneak-peaks/preview builds of latest OS which requires unlocked bootloaders, as they did with Xperia 2011 line (they had ICS alpha/beta), so who knows may be SE/Sony may give early builds of ICS (JellyBean???)
Most of this is taken from lollylost100's his tutorial from ARC thread (all credits for that concise tutorial go to him, i have elaborated on a few things and added device specific changes)
[ Before we begin unlocking bootloader ]
Get the IMEI code for your device: type *#06# in phone dialer to find it out, note only the digits (no dashes)
Download the fastboot package with usb drivers (alternate drivers if the ones in package dont work)
Make sure u have a windows PC with USB cable to connect the phone
Power down your phone and keeping the Volume Up button pressed connect the USB cable to PC this will trigger FASTBOOT mode and windows will start driver installation, extract the above package and point the driver install to that location (usb_driver) folder
Once drivers are installed just disconnect cable and power on device
[ how to unlock ] (official way)
Go to: http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/ and read everything!
At the bottom click 'Start Unlocking the Bootloader'
First, you should confirm that it is possible to unlock the boot loader of your phone by checking the service menu. In your phone, open the phone dial pad and enter *#*#7378423#*#* to access the service menu.
In your phone, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can continue with the next step. If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After you have verified that you can unlock bootloader, scroll to the bottom of the page and click "Continue"
You will get "Are you sure prompt" accept it by clicking "yes i am sure" (i assume that you have read an understood it)
Then accept the "legal terms"
Finally you will get a "Create Unlock request" page, enter your IMEI (sometimes the last digit needs to be removed for this to work), name and email address
You should now receive your unique unlock key, its displayed on screen, SAVE THIS KEY SAFELY
Extract fastboot_with_Android_USB_file.rar and open fastboot folder
Hold SHIFT and right click on the background of the folder
Select 'Open command window here'
Connect your phone in fastboot mode (turn phone off, hold Volume UP button and plug in USB Cable) [make sure drivers are installed as explained above)
In the cmd windows type in fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version
If a value is returned (it will return 0.5), it means the phone is correctly connected
Type in fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce oem unlock 0xKEY and replace KEY with the key which you received earlier.
Your device should now be bootloader unlocked
If this tutorial is too much for you then itskapil wrote a step-by-step guide (and recorded a video also):
-Instructions: http://www.theandroidsoul.com/how-to...-play-neo-pro/
-Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRH3pC7MhEA
(the above videos and some steps are for Xperia 2011 devices, but most the steps are same for Xperia ion)
Info on Relocking bootloader is in next post
Relocking bootloader
RELOCKING BOOTLOADER WILL ALLOW YOU TO GET NEWEST UPDATES & REPAIR DEVICE USING SEUS/PCC
Before we begin relocking the bootloader make sure that u have flashtool download & installed
You can get the latest version of FlashTool from:
http://androxyde.github.com/Flashtool/
Download link is under "Installation" tab
If you have not use FlashTool before read this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1526866
Download this FTF:
Xperia ion -> LT28-ION_Relock_bootloader_Dogsly-TEST.ftf // Mirror 1
Flash this FTF via FlashTool:
When it says enter flashmode, power down device and keeping VOLUME DOWN button pressed connect usb cable to phone, the device will now enter flashmode (green LED)
After this file is flashed reboot phone
Bootloader will now be relocked!!!
Incase device doesn't boot DO NOT PANIC... You can flash stock firmware FTF anytime to get back to stock ROM
P.S.: there is no official way to relock bootloader
So because my phone says I can't unlock the bootloader, does that mean I can never unlock the bootloader? Or do I have to wait to be able to root it first?
PS: I got my ion from Best Buy so is that why? Will I ever be able to unlock the BL ? I've rooted and unlocked my x10, back in the old days lol but I'm just wondering if there's any difference with getting a phone from at&t directly or from the sony store and best buy.
Auggy99 said:
So because my phone says I can't unlock the bootloader, does that mean I can never unlock the bootloader? Or do I have to wait to be able to root it first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have to wait to see if another way to unlock the bootloader is discovered. Root and unlocking the bootloader are two different things that accomplish or allow different things you can do on the phone.
IE rooting allows you to uninstall system apps & bloatware, backup apps/data, make changes to build.prop etc. Unlocking the bootloader will give you access to fastboot so you can flash custom roms/kernels and other images such as a pre-rooted system image to gain root.
I wonder. If we can not unlock the bootloader for some LT28at, why is there a key to unlock it? I did the Sony bootloader unlock for fun and apparently they have a key for my LT28at even though it says bootloader unlock is not allowed.
Bach415 said:
I wonder. If we can not unlock the bootloader for some LT28at, why is there a key to unlock it? I did the Sony bootloader unlock for fun and apparently they have a key for my LT28at even though it says bootloader unlock is not allowed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can unlock bootloader on the LT28i and, accordingly, there is a file to be relock bootloader LT28i
dogsly said:
You can unlock bootloader on the LT28i and, accordingly, there is a file to be relock bootloader LT28i
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand that works for lt28i but I'm referring to lt28at the us model of the ion and why there is a bootlloader unlock code when we can't unlock it.
see if it works
Has anyone with an ion that has
Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tried to unlock it via the sony site and if you did and it was successful have you tried to relock it using the file linked above? Would be nice to know if that works.
Possible fix?
If the LT28i can be unlocked, what if we flash the international firmware on our LT28at's and then do the LT28i method? Maybe a stupid question but this is the first phone I've had that's a challenge to do stuff like unlocking and rooting. My last phone (HTC Aria) was extremely easy.
SU1CiDE said:
If the LT28i can be unlocked, what if we flash the international firmware on our LT28at's and then do the LT28i method? Maybe a stupid question but this is the first phone I've had that's a challenge to do stuff like unlocking and rooting. My last phone (HTC Aria) was extremely easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing firmwares does not change the ability to unlock the bootloader.
Spectre51 said:
Flashing firmwares does not change the ability to unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kinda figured that
I tried to relock the bootloader. The flash pass but the phone can't turn on after that.
*I reflash the stock kernel again and the phone can power on now.
So here is the result, once you relock bootloader, you need to flash back the stock kernel in other to turn on the phone. Hopefully this will help those people who got stuck after relock bootloader.
Hello guys
I was just wondering, if bootloader unlock or flashing cutom kernel will allow to use sim cards from other mobile operators (European for ex.) ?
I have an ability to buy this device in us through my friend. but Im interested if I would be able to use it in Europe I was thinking of buying xperia p or s, but they dont have microsd card support.
Im not interested in using LTE networks. Just common 2g.
I planning to use it like a second android device as a multimedia player instead of my galaxy s wifi5.0. (because of good sound quality and other features).
Thanx a lot for responses
Assyle said:
Hello guys
I was just wondering, if bootloader unlock or flashing cutom kernel will allow to use sim cards from other mobile operators (European for ex.) ?
I have an ability to buy this device in us through my friend. but Im interested if I would be able to use it in Europe I was thinking of buying xperia p or s, but they dont have microsd card support.
Im not interested in using LTE networks. Just common 2g.
I planning to use it like a second android device as a multimedia player instead of my galaxy s wifi5.0. (because of good sound quality and other features).
Thanx a lot for responses
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. You can't unlock the bootloader of the lt28at and you can't sim unlock it either. Best bet is get an international version not one from the US.
Sent from my LT28at using Tapatalk 2
Spectre51 said:
No. You can't unlock the bootloader of the lt28at and you can't sim unlock it either. Best bet is get an international version not one from the US.
Sent from my LT28at using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok. thanx
probably wait for Xperia acro S... probably will be sold in europe in nearest future.
Drivers aren't working for my device. The alternative drivers link isn't working. Can someone please upload the alternative drivers. Thank you.:good:
i'm sorry if it was mentioned, but i didn't find . is there a way to unlock the carrier already for lt28at ? i don't mind losing the lte.
apkraven said:
i'm sorry if it was mentioned, but i didn't find . is there a way to unlock the carrier already for lt28at ? i don't mind losing the lte.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you can switch the rom to international version but it will still be bootloader locked. Not sure about carrier
Sent from my Sony Xperia Ion
apkraven said:
i'm sorry if it was mentioned, but i didn't find . is there a way to unlock the carrier already for lt28at ? i don't mind losing the lte.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1761578
Sent from my LT22i using Tapatalk 2
hey, ive a carrierlocked arc s (LT18i) and i want to unlock the bootloader, i bought a omnius licence but it did not work. the production code of my phone is 12w25.
is it impossible to unlock my bootloader, pls help me guys.
thx for reply.
bani1994 said:
hey, ive a carrierlocked arc s (LT18i) and i want to unlock the bootloader, i bought a omnius licence but it did not work. the production code of my phone is 12w15.
is it impossible to unlock my bootloader, pls help me guys.
thx for reply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, you should confirm that it is possible to unlock the boot loader of your phone by checking the service menu. In your phone, open the dialler and enter *#*#7378423#*#* to access the service menu.
In your phone, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can . If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked. I hope its helps
Have a LT26i .Purchased on contract with eMobile - an Irish network. I'm now out of contract . The config on the phone reads - BOOT LOADER UNLOCK ALLOWED - NO .
The USB port as a data port stopped working about 8 monyhs back , after applying an update. I am now getting a prompt to apply 6.1.A.2.45 from SONY.But can't update becuse PC COMPANION doesn't recognise the phone connected to the USB port .
The network have been unable to unlock the bootloader. Sony have expressed their helplessness as well .
I want to try custom ROMs . Is there a sure fire way to unlock the bootloader ?
Thanks
Lig
You have to contact your network about the bootloader.
Sony can allow the bootloader unlocking, but it has to come from network.
Unfortunately Sony is very slow on updates but very good on network contract protections...
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
lignite said:
Have a LT26i .Purchased on contract with eMobile - an Irish network. I'm now out of contract . The config on the phone reads - BOOT LOADER UNLOCK ALLOWED - NO .
The USB port as a data port stopped working about 8 monyhs back , after applying an update. I am now getting a prompt to apply 6.1.A.2.45 from SONY.But can't update becuse PC COMPANION doesn't recognise the phone connected to the USB port .
The network have been unable to unlock the bootloader. Sony have expressed their helplessness as well .
I want to try custom ROMs . Is there a sure fire way to unlock the bootloader ?
Thanks
Lig
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BOOT LOADER UNLOCK ALLOWED - NO
You in unlocked bootloader..
Mr. Khan said:
BOOT LOADER UNLOCK ALLOWED - NO
You in unlocked bootloader..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
May be some carrier devices won't allow your device bootloader to stay locked forever.. It may not be unlockable. If bootloader is already unlocked, it should say "Bootloader unlocked: YES"..
sudhindrakv said:
May be some carrier devices won't allow your device bootloader to stay locked forever.. It may not be unlockable. If bootloader is already unlocked, it should say "Bootloader unlocked: YES"..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
" In your device, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can continue with the next step. If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked. "
Point 2.
here
Mr. Khan said:
" In your device, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can continue with the next step. If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked. "
Point 2.
here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah.. That's exactly what i said mate..
Mr. Khan said:
BOOT LOADER UNLOCK ALLOWED - NO
You in unlocked bootloader..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See the sarcasm ....going to write to the service provider ...
So, I'm the owner of a shiny new Sony Xperia Z (hurrah!) but have quickly discovered that rooting it is not so easy (boo!), so would appreciate the benefit of other people's opinions/experiences.
First off, the hardware in question:
Sony Xperia Z
Model C6603
Android 4.3
Build 10.4.1.B.0.101
I've investigated a lot of threads here and elsewhere and watched through some videos, but no solid method of rooting it as yet.
So far, I've:
1) Gone into the developer settings and checked the bootloader status. It is set at Bootloader unlock allowed: no
2) I contacted my carrier and had the phone unlocked so that it is SIM-free. I have tested this and can now use any SIM card. When I recheck the developer settings however, it still says Bootloader unlock allowed: no.
3) I've used Sony's own unlocking site to run through the various settings and to upload my IMEI. I have a unlock boot loader key from Sony, but still cannot get this damn bootloader to say anything other than 'no'.
4) Reasoning that it might just be falsely reporting its status, I tried using the unlock function within Flashtool and it bugs out with a "Bootloader not unlocked" message.
So, as a last resort, I'm turning to you guys. Is there anything, short of me asking Sony or making hardware changes myself, I can do to get this damn phone rooted?