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Hey,
I got my Nexus two months ago and I've loved it unconditionally!
But I'm moving to the USA for three months in the summer and I really want to be able to use it over there. I'm just wondering is there an efficient way to unlock the carrier restrictions without paying my carrier? I'm on a contract and they won't do it.
I have until June, so if nothing is available now, I'm sure it will be then-provided it's possible.
I'm really not sure if this is possible because I'm totally unused to Android-I came from an iPhone 4.
I don't mind using Custom ROMs, Rooting, etc.
.synq said:
Hey,
I got my Nexus two months ago and I've loved it unconditionally!
But I'm moving to the USA for three months in the summer and I really want to be able to use it over there. I'm just wondering is there an efficient way to unlock the carrier restrictions without paying my carrier? I'm on a contract and they won't do it.
I have until June, so if nothing is available now, I'm sure it will be then-provided it's possible.
I'm really not sure if this is possible because I'm totally unused to Android-I came from an iPhone 4.
I don't mind using Custom ROMs, Rooting, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Galaxy Nexus is factory unlocked. All Nexus phones are. It's one of Googles provisions for these phones.
not anymore, carrier sold GNs are locked. If your operator won't unlock it, there are a lot of sites that will unlock samsung phones. I got my unlock code off ebay for about £9...
you need to enter the code again after a factory reset so keep it safe somewhere
spamlucal said:
not anymore, carrier sold GNs are locked. If your operator won't unlock it, there are a lot of sites that will unlock samsung phones. I got my unlock code off ebay for about £9...
you need to enter the code again after a factory reset so keep it safe somewhere
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
?? Mine was. I thought they all were still. Is it only in certain countries than? I bought one from Bell Canada and it is unlocked. Either way ignore my post I just assumed all of them were still unlocked.
@OP I found lots of places to buy unlock codes cheap. If you aren't in a hurry you can also wait until we find a way to unlock it with software.
I got the chance to test it out today and as it turns out, it's unlocked.
I got the phone in a strange way where there was very little contact with the carrier because it's on a corporate contract.
Either way, it's unlocked, but thank you guys for the help!
I'm using CDMA/LTE GNex, so this doesn't apply to me.. but just wondering..
Is the unlock code unique to each device or do all Gnexuses have the same code?
If the latter, why does no one publicize it?
Royal2000H said:
I'm using CDMA/LTE GNex, so this doesn't apply to me.. but just wondering..
Is the unlock code unique to each device or do all Gnexuses have the same code?
If the latter, why does no one publicize it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
they are unique, if someone cracked the encryption ( pay sites ) they could sell the keys they can create. you need to give your IMEI to be able to generate your code
Out of curiosity what carriers are locking the phone? I now have used 3 different phones all factory unlocked. Is this just certain countries?
First:
I know there is a fully legit method to unlock this phone via t-mobile. For what it is worth, I recently tried to do this and was stymied by the bureaucracy before I was able to get it done. Specifically, they apparently had a different phone registered to my account despite the fact I had activated it with the T989 (switched to prepaid) so I had to wait 24 hours for that to get into the system. Then I was required to FAX my proof of purchase but by then I was out of the country.
(Funny story: I got my g/f a legit unlock code, who is running a Vibrant. It didn't work, and we found this out in South Africa. Luckily I brought an extra phone which I had unlocked myself.)
Second:
Has anyone taken a serious look at this? I know there are ways to do this with various (kind of expensive) hardware, unlocking websites of various pedigrees, or taking it in to certain stores for a fee. But first of all where is the fun in that, and second of all, for people in a pinch all of these methods may not work. Best to have a DIY method where all you need is adb and a hex editor.
Third:
Unlocking is a pain anyways, because from what I read you have to go back to stock to do it, and who wants to do that?
Finally:
Does anyone want to try this? I am not a seasoned developer, but I am probably going to go through the official process of unlocking my phone, which means that if there is something I can snapshot, I can do it before and after, which might provide some hints as to where this phone is unlocked. Privacy issues must be respected, meaning I probably will be reluctant to share details such as my IMEI, but maybe we can all work together to figure out offsets or otherwise find a pattern useful in unlocking this device.
Thoughts?
Same thing about the vibrant here. I requested the unlock code from Tmo, and they sent it in a about a day. When I tried to use the unlock code, it wouldn't work. I used all attempts except one and it's still locked.I called T-Mobile and they asked me to send it in.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda app-developers app
The rep you spoke to should have asked you for your new IMEI number so they can punch it in. They can run the unlock code thing whatever with your new imei too, I have no idea why they didn't do that.Thats what I did when I unlocked my phonessssss.
tablador said:
First:
I know there is a fully legit method to unlock this phone via t-mobile. For what it is worth, I recently tried to do this and was stymied by the bureaucracy before I was able to get it done. Specifically, they apparently had a different phone registered to my account despite the fact I had activated it with the T989 (switched to prepaid) so I had to wait 24 hours for that to get into the system. Then I was required to FAX my proof of purchase but by then I was out of the country.
(Funny story: I got my g/f a legit unlock code, who is running a Vibrant. It didn't work, and we found this out in South Africa. Luckily I brought an extra phone which I had unlocked myself.)
Second:
Has anyone taken a serious look at this? I know there are ways to do this with various (kind of expensive) hardware, unlocking websites of various pedigrees, or taking it in to certain stores for a fee. But first of all where is the fun in that, and second of all, for people in a pinch all of these methods may not work. Best to have a DIY method where all you need is adb and a hex editor.
Third:
Unlocking is a pain anyways, because from what I read you have to go back to stock to do it, and who wants to do that?
Finally:
Does anyone want to try this? I am not a seasoned developer, but I am probably going to go through the official process of unlocking my phone, which means that if there is something I can snapshot, I can do it before and after, which might provide some hints as to where this phone is unlocked. Privacy issues must be respected, meaning I probably will be reluctant to share details such as my IMEI, but maybe we can all work together to figure out offsets or otherwise find a pattern useful in unlocking this device.
Thoughts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thatlaoboi said:
Same thing about the vibrant here. I requested the unlock code from Tmo, and they sent it in a about a day. When I tried to use the unlock code, it wouldn't work. I used all attempts except one and it's still locked.I called T-Mobile and they asked me to send it in.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got mine through T-Mobile. Only issue i had was the dummy who sent the email forgot to actually put in the code so i had to talk to a rep who gave it to me then. But i flashed to stock entered code, and was able to use the ATT sim card perfectly no issues.
BTW the reason for putting it back to stock, i think the apk required for entering the code isnt on custom ROMs.
And just outta curiosity, how do you use ADB and a hex editor to figure out the unlock code? i always wondered where the unlock code came from wondered how it was calculated and such.. it must just be off the IMEI since thats all any company or t mobile needs to get the code..
After hours last night and this morning, this worked for me: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2024514
Spread the word! :victory:
So I've owned my S4 for 90 days and paid my bills on time. As other S4 owners on MetroPCS will tell you, that made me eligible for unlocking codes -- as the MetroPCS salesperson who convinced me to buy the phone assured me it would.
Sure enough, after requesting the code, I received a ticket number and, three days later, was sent a "network code" and a "service provider code" -- and no instructions whatsoever on how to use them.
Since then, I've called MetroPCS and gotten customer service people with no idea what to do -- "ask your new carrier to do it" was the common answer. Eventually, I called the corporate office in Harlem and was subjected to one of the rudest women I've ever encountered. When I explained that I had a ticket number for the request, she chanted "MetroPCS doesn't unlock phones!" loudly and at a continually escalating volume -- it was like being stuck in a room with the most obnoxious character in a reality show about career alcoholics. When I tried to tell her to look up my account, and that MetroPCs had in fact sent me the code she said was "illegal," she continued to yell the words until she hung up on me.
This is a process I was promised from the first day I bought the phone. I hadn't even been interested in changing carriers just yet (though that woman is making me reconsider!). All I want is to be able to swap the SIM when I leave the country and root my phone while using it on the GSM carrier of my choice. As long as the phone I bought outright is locked, I can't do either thing.
I realize that discussions about unlocking phones without permission is forbidden on these forums, but MetroPCS gave me permission! They just don't seem to know how to do the thing they gave me permission to do!
I was on the phone with MetroPCS for a solid hour today. I'd rather give myself a home vasectomy than go through that again.
You simply put in a SIM card from a different carrier and the phone will popup a window that requests you to input an unlock code, which I'm guessing is what MetroPCS gave you.
Exel said:
You simply put in a SIM card from a different carrier and the phone will popup a window that requests you to input an unlock code, which I'm guessing is what MetroPCS gave you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People who have tried to root MetroPCS S4s have been unable to do so because the phone is locked. Will unlocking the SIM unlock that capability as well?
Reignogleph MMXI said:
People who have tried to root MetroPCS S4s have been unable to do so because the phone is locked. Will unlocking the SIM unlock that capability as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SIM unlocking and rooting is two totally different thing.
baseballfanz said:
SIM unlocking and rooting is two totally different thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I thought.
The two codes offered by MetroPCS were a service provider code and a network code.
A few people who tried to root the phone reported being stopped by a restriction which prevented it (I'll link to the thread on XDA which contains those posts later tonight -- I'm about to go to sleep before work).
I wondered whether either of the two codes sent by MetroPCS might have any effect on that restriction. As I say, I'll be more specific later tonight.
Reignogleph MMXI said:
As I thought.
The two codes offered by MetroPCS were a service provider code and a network code.
A few people who tried to root the phone reported being stopped by a restriction which prevented it (I'll link to the thread on XDA which contains those posts later tonight -- I'm about to go to sleep before work).
I wondered whether either of the two codes sent by MetroPCS might have any effect on that restriction. As I say, I'll be more specific later tonight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe you're talking about the KNOX thing, where it sees root it "blocks" it due to how KNOX functions.
But as someone said before, rooting and unlocking are two different things. Unlocking does not require root nor any file changes. Simply input the unlock code as I said earlier.
Exel said:
I believe you're talking about the KNOX thing, where it sees root it "blocks" it due to how KNOX functions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd love to know more about "the KNOX thing" -- specifically what it is and whether it can be defeated.
I'll do a search on XDA and google the term as well, but any other help would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to be able to customize my S4.
Edit: Aha! You're talking about this: "The KNOX thing."
By the way, since you were given TWO codes, perhaps we can clarify. The unluck code is probably the Network code, probably denoted "NCK". The other code is in case the phone is also locked by the Service Provide (MetroPCS in your case), in which case you'll also need to put this one in. But use the Network code first.
WhosAsking said:
By the way, since you were given TWO codes, perhaps we can clarify. The unluck code is probably the Network code, probably denoted "NCK". The other code is in case the phone is also locked by the Service Provide (MetroPCS in your case), in which case you'll also need to put this one in. But use the Network code first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, WhosAsking -- that's exactly what I was asking about!
My understanding is that, once you unlock the SIM option, you need never worry about unlocking it again even if you go back to using the original SIM (as it were).
Is the same thing true of the provider code? Will unlocking it have no effect on one's service with that provider or is unlocking it something that is only done when one changes providers?
BTW: This is the message I meant to look up before. Given what the two of you have said, I think I misunderstood the message and that it applies only to changing the SIM.
I realize these questions make me sound like a diaper-clad novice, but I think it's better (and more honest) to get the help one really needs in depth than to pretend to be knowledgeable and not quite understand what one is doing.
Reignogleph MMXI said:
Thank you, WhosAsking -- that's exactly what I was asking about!
My understanding is that, once you unlock the SIM option, you need never worry about unlocking it again even if you go back to using the original SIM (as it were).
Is the same thing true of the provider code? Will unlocking it have no effect on one's service with that provider or is unlocking it something that is only done when one changes providers?
BTW: This is the message I meant to look up before. Given what the two of you have said, I think I misunderstood the message and that it applies only to changing the SIM.
I realize these questions make me sound like a diaper-clad novice, but I think it's better (and more honest) to get the help one really needs in depth than to pretend to be knowledgeable and not quite understand what one is doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those instructions are if you don't have an unlock code.
Exel said:
Those instructions are if you don't have an unlock code.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, but there's the irony -- there haven't been any instructions. That person was talking about the impasse he reached because he didn't have codes to unlock the SIM but thought there might be a deeper issue.
The reason I don't feel too stupid about this is because I note that when one pays for unlock codes, they're accompanied by actual instructions for the person who's doing it all for the first time (and since I've been on non-GSM carriers until now, that would be me).
Anyway, thanks.
I thought like what was already suggested that you put other carriers sim in and it'll ask for said codes?
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk
futty said:
I thought like what was already suggested that you put other carriers sim in and it'll ask for said codes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WhosAsking answered the question, which is why I thanked that member.
On the other hand, the email that contained the codes and reps of the carrier -- MetroPCS -- not only offered no instructions but couldn't give any. As I mentioned above, one of them even screamed repeatedly that what I was asking for was illegal and then hung up the phone in mid-scream. That MetroPCS Harlem corporate store -- classy!
BTW: I've been reading about the region prompt and I wonder whether the lock isn't imposed by MetroPCS at all but is rather the region lock we've been associating with the Note 3. Perhaps the only difference is that T-Mobile gives you the code right away and MetroPCS, a pay-as-you-go variant, makes you wait to ensure that three months.
See this article.
Samsung shed further light on its region-locking policies on Friday, explaining that the locks only affect users the first time they activate the handset. The manufacturer also said the locks apply not only to the new Galaxy Note 3, as we reported on Thursday, but also to units of the Galaxy S4, Galaxy S4 mini, Galaxy Note II and Galaxy S III that were produced after July.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here at last is an article that details the differences between the region lock and carrier lock which are particular to the Note 3 in general and to the Galaxy S4 sold (like mine, technically) after July 2013:
The article and video
And by the way: This article is reason enough for me to have hesitated before using various codes. MetroPCS users appear to have gotten locked S4s, so this might be a good read for anyone who did:
How to Avoid Regional SIM Lock Problems
Hello. I just got a pixel 3a xl, but it is bootloader locked to T-Mobile, I see Google has a pixel repair tool to reflash the pixel to stock. My question is it asks for your carrier, if I change the carrier to a different carrier that doesn't lock the bootloader will o be able to unlock my bootloader to flash root.
While I could not say for sure, I suspect the answer would be 98 percent no.
Thanks I want to try but it's my only phone and if it is down for a while I have no phone and I need 2FA for work.
If I try I will post here
Sent from my Pixel 3a XL using Tapatalk
You cannot unlock it from T-Mobile or unlock the bootloader, even with the flash tool... The flash tool does not/cannot modify that part of the phone, if it was that simple people would be doing it all the time.
Only T-Mobile can unlock the SIM, once that is done you can unlock the bootloader. Your only other option is to go through a 3rd party unlock code service, which can be sketchy according to some people (I have done it a few times without issue though).
I want to verify this.
SO if I buy a used T-Mobile 3a XL that is paid in full, I should be able to get it SIM unlocked by the carrier correct and if its carrier SIM unlocked, I CAN unlock the bootloader?
kdoggy said:
I want to verify this.
SO if I buy a used T-Mobile 3a XL that is paid in full, I should be able to get it SIM unlocked by the carrier correct and if its carrier SIM unlocked, I CAN unlock the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as it is not the Verizon model 3a, then yes. You can bootloader unlock it once it is SIM card unlocked. Only the Verizon models permanently lock the bootloader.
Question 2...
SO lets say I buy a T-Mobile 3a XL and it works fine with a T-M SIM but is SIM locked... Can I pay someone to unlock it and then still unlock the boot loader?
Someone know has a new in the box T-Mobile Pixel 3a XL I can have for $225.00 but its never had service on it and it sounds like it has to be active on T-Mobile AND have had seriver for 40 days to get them to do it.
kdoggy said:
Question 2...
SO lets say I buy a T-Mobile 3a XL and it works fine with a T-M SIM but is SIM locked... Can I pay someone to unlock it and then still unlock the boot loader?
Someone know has a new in the box T-Mobile Pixel 3a XL I can have for $225.00 but its never had service on it and it sounds like it has to be active on T-Mobile AND have had seriver for 40 days to get them to do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've seen unlock services being advertised, but I have also seen people post that they don't work. It would require that someone hacked or has access to the T-Mobile locking software which isn't out of the realm of possibility, so it's possible some services do work.
Hello friends, I need your help! Who can help me raise my brick and make a full backup of my smartphone using qpst?
Update. So I ended up buying a T-Mobile Pixel 4 XL when they went on sale.
Search my name and look at the thread reply I just posted in the Pixel 4 XL forum about T-Mobile unlocking.
I included pictures.
I just purchased a Pixel 4 XL, I'm brand new T-Mobile subscriber, the phone is not paid off and I have it on a lease and I've only been on the service for 4 days.
I currently have the T-Mobile Pixel 4 XL with both a full SIM card unlock and OEM bootloader unlock.
I'm currently running the phone with an AT&T physical SIM and a T-Mobile eSIM.
acejavelin said:
You cannot unlock it from T-Mobile or unlock the bootloader, even with the flash tool... The flash tool does not/cannot modify that part of the phone, if it was that simple people would be doing it all the time.
Only T-Mobile can unlock the SIM, once that is done you can unlock the bootloader. Your only other option is to go through a 3rd party unlock code service, which can be sketchy according to some people (I have done it a few times without issue though).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have any recommendations? I have a brand new Pixel 4 that an online retailer lied about being unlocked & is T-Mobile carrier locked & they're completely unwilling to release the Sim from their network. I'll take the sketchy unlock service. I tried one in ATL friend gave me a number but most only do Samsung's or iPhones for obvious reasons.
---------- Post added at 06:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:05 PM ----------
sic0048 said:
As long as it is not the Verizon model 3a, then yes. You can bootloader unlock it once it is SIM card unlocked. Only the Verizon models permanently lock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not just Verizon though right? I heard Sprint does too.
Nightshadex543 said:
Have any recommendations? I have a brand new Pixel 4 that an online retailer lied about being unlocked & is T-Mobile carrier locked & they're completely unwilling to release the Sim from their network. I'll take the sketchy unlock service. I tried one in ATL friend gave me a number but most only do Samsung's or iPhones for obvious reasons.
---------- Post added at 06:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:05 PM ----------
Not just Verizon though right? I heard Sprint does too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep in mind there are SIM locks and bootloader locks. Every US carrier SIM locks you phone if it was bought in an installment plan. Once the phone is paid off, I think every carrier will SIM card unlock the phone.
All recent Pixel versions have to be SIM card unlocked before the bootloader unlock option is available. So you have to have a SIM card unlocked phone before you can bootloader unlock. But Verizon is the only US carrier that has asked Google to permanently bootloader lock their phones. Sprint and others don't weigh in on the subject and Google's policy is to allow bootloader unlock. This isn't necessarily true with other phone brands however.
As far as getting the phone SIM unlocked, the policy is to not do it, so it's rare to find a call center person that is willing to do it whether you call in or chat with someone online. However, the success stories that I do see are usually done by DMing the carrier's support group on Twitter of all places. Explain that you need to get the phone unlocked and many times they will do it.
sic0048 said:
Keep in mind there are SIM locks and bootloader locks. Every US carrier SIM locks you phone if it was bought in an installment plan. Once the phone is paid off, I think every carrier will SIM card unlock the phone.
All recent Pixel versions have to be SIM card unlocked before the bootloader unlock option is available. So you have to have a SIM card unlocked phone before you can bootloader unlock. But Verizon is the only US carrier that has asked Google to permanently bootloader lock their phones. Sprint and others don't weigh in on the subject and Google's policy is to allow bootloader unlock. This isn't necessarily true with other phone brands however.
As far as getting the phone SIM unlocked, the policy is to not do it, so it's rare to find a call center person that is willing to do it whether you call in or chat with someone online. However, the success stories that I do see are usually done by DMing the carrier's support group on Twitter of all places. Explain that you need to get the phone unlocked and many times they will do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can confirm this. I'm on TMO and I reached out on Twitter and got results. I'm not a big Twitter fan nor do I really use it, but customer services seems to be more in the loop there. I told them that I wanted to try the dev preview of android 11 and I needed to bootloader unlock. For that to happen I needed them to permanently sim unlock my phone. (Technically you can install the preview with a locked BL, but since it's a preview you can't re-flash anything lower or rollback without the BL being unlocked). Hence the dev preview. Anyways, I was polite and truthful about my intentions and they got it sim unlocked, fairly quickly too.
sic0048 said:
Keep in mind there are SIM locks and bootloader locks. Every US carrier SIM locks you phone if it was bought in an installment plan. Once the phone is paid off, I think every carrier will SIM card unlock the phone.
All recent Pixel versions have to be SIM card unlocked before the bootloader unlock option is available. So you have to have a SIM card unlocked phone before you can bootloader unlock. But Verizon is the only US carrier that has asked Google to permanently bootloader lock their phones. Sprint and others don't weigh in on the subject and Google's policy is to allow bootloader unlock. This isn't necessarily true with other phone brands however.
As far as getting the phone SIM unlocked, the policy is to not do it, so it's rare to find a call center person that is willing to do it whether you call in or chat with someone online. However, the success stories that I do see are usually done by DMing the carrier's support group on Twitter of all places. Explain that you need to get the phone unlocked and many times they will do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its bootloaders unlocked I was almost done rooting it but haven't; refrained because I don't want to violate the software warranty incase I need to return it, & find another way to do so for a refund. I called support multiple times same answer, & then Twitter dm'd last night they were again unable to do anything so they say.
They cite "privacy issues" but I know it's a ****ing money grab they don't want to unlock it unless you want to pay for one of their plans & get tied in a contract for a minimum amount of days first & I'm not going to ****ing do that. It's ridiculous to me carriers behave this way. This is why I believe in hacking because you can't trust companies for absolutely ****.
You got results? Look at my next post, can you tell me your secret because they're being serious assholes here. Not a single company involved with this situation is helping at all.
Nightshadex543 said:
You got results? Look at my next post, can you tell me your secret because they're being serious assholes here. Not a single company involved with this situation is helping at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a little confused. You say it's bootloader unlocked and you were about to root it but decided not because of warranty concerns correct?
Typically, whenever you unlock a bootloader your warranty is void then and there. That is in most cases and I assume is the same in this case, though I don't know that for a fact with a TMO Pixel 3a XL. I just assumed it was and most likely is. The reason being is you can flash anything you want, and there is no way to guarantee that whatever has happened to warrant a claim wasn't due to user error or unofficial software. A locked bootloader kind of guarantees that nothing unofficial was flashed and that's why warranties are usually based around their status and why a flag is marked when it is. So even if you re-lock it, the flag still shows it was unlocked at one point.
As for actually unlocking it via TMO, the phone uses a TMO app to actually unlock it. It basically checks your imei against their server to see if it is eligible for unlocking. As for citing privacy concerns, basically you have a TMO phone and no account it seems, and you want it unlocked. For all they know it could be stolen, and as far as proving it's yours legally without any account... probably more than they want to deal with and I'm sure they have liability reasons as well.
All I know is, I've had an account for quite some time. I've bought several phones through them, so no issues. Technically I'm still on installments with this phone, so they could have easily said no, not until it's paid off, but I like to think they said "Oh it's Airwalk... he's cool af, go ahead".
41rw4lk said:
Typically, whenever you unlock a bootloader your warranty is void then and there. The reason being is you can flash anything you want, and there is no way to guarantee that whatever has happened to warrant a claim wasn't due to user error or unofficial software. So even if you re-lock it, the flag still shows it was unlocked at one point.
As for actually unlocking it via TMO, the phone uses a TMO app to actually unlock it. It basically checks your imei against their server to see if it is eligible for unlocking. As for citing privacy concerns, basically you have a TMO phone and no account it seems, and you want it unlocked. For all they know it could be stolen, and as far as proving it's yours legally without any account... probably more than they want to deal with and I'm sure they have liability reasons as well.
All I know is, I've had an account for quite some time. I've bought several phones through them, so no issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only Sprint & Verizon manufacturers lock the bootloaders of their phones T-Mobile doesn't. TWRP doesn't even exist for Pixel 4 because dude's too busy with wife & kids to update so flashing is difficult until you root it first unless you feel like doing a tethered through ADB. I know Samsung has the "Knox" & figured it's similar to that. Unless it's tripped it's negligible.
I know how the unlocking app works. Also, It's not stolen my situation is similar to the below it's "super whitelisted" I've had multiple services run the IMEI & it's come back clean. The phone meets all the unlocking criteria of which is being legit paid for is one of them.
They're just not releasing from the network. I need a workaround, I'm not trying to go through an entire claims process & have it sent back when aside from "network lock" it works just fine.
****ing Greedy ass corporations.
Nightshadex543 said:
Only Sprint & Verizon manufacturers lock the bootloaders of their phones T-Mobile doesn't. I'm TWRP doesn't even exist for Pixel 4 because dude's to busy with wife & kids to update so flashing is difficult until you root it first unless you feel like doing a tethered through ADB. I know Samsung has the "Knox" & figured it's similar to that. Unless it's tripped it's negligible.
I know how the unlocking app works. Also, It's not stolen my situation is similar to the below it's "super whitelisted" I've had multiple services run the IMEI & it's come back clean. The phone meets all the unlocking criteria of which is being legit paid for is one of them.
They're just not releasing from the network. I need a workaround, I'm not trying to go through an entire claims process & have it sent back when aside from "network lock" it works just fine.
****ing Greedy ass corporations.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, Pixel 4 needs sim unlocked, I was confused because this is 3a XL and I wasn't paying enough attention. I see your frustration now. I don't know about that one, just (bonito) here and it was all easy for me. I suppose that if you don't meet their requirements it's all too easy to just lock you into their script. I can't help you here, sorry. I think you'll just have to be 'that guy' and persist with them. Good luck.
Nightshadex543 said:
TWRP doesn't even exist for Pixel 4 because dude's too busy with wife & kids to update....
Click to expand...
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No quicker way to loose all goodwill and help from people than bad mouthing the generous developers.
Feel free to come up with your own TWRP solution. Until then, STFU.
sic0048 said:
Feel free to come up with your own TWRP solution. Until then, STFU.
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That isn't even the subject of the thread. If you're going to ignore everything else I was saying & completely miss the point to focus on a single cherry-picked remark that triggered you then you can take a hike. Don't respond. Go invest your frustrated energies elsewhere
You know what? Maybe I will take the source code & develop my own unofficial TWRP build for it. Hacking & Technological communities don't just stop because you want to "move on with your life" we still need these tools. You think journalists whistleblowers & Chinese protesters can "do without" Tor?
Its been a very long time since i have done any of this stuff. I bought the verizon version and cannot get bootloader unlocked. I have searched and see there has been the same problem in the past models. Is there a bypass or workaround? I can only find one for early Pixel products.
Kpwise509 said:
Its been a very long time since i have done any of this stuff. I bought the verizon version and cannot get bootloader unlocked. I have searched and see there has been the same problem in the past models. Is there a bypass or workaround? I can only find one for early Pixel products.
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nvmnd. found my answer
Kpwise509 said:
nvmnd. found my answer
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I am in the same boat.. curious to what answer you found?
m1ng15 said:
I am in the same boat.. curious to what answer you found?
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I found another thread on here after I searched, and searched. From what I understand now. If it's a Verizon pixel the bootloader is locked permanently.
If you purchased your device from Verizon, or a Verizon variant from a 3rd party retailer (Best buy, Costco, etc.) the bootloader is locked tight!
If you want the option to root; return your VZW device and order one directly from Google.
It's not necessarily true, according to Verizon, they Sim unlock their phones after 60 days. Once that is done, we should be able to to check oem unlocking option in developers options and unlock the bootloader. Am I missing something?
mustangtim49 said:
It's not necessarily true, according to Verizon, they Sim unlock their phones after 60 days. Once that is done, we should be able to to check oem unlocking option in developers options and unlock the bootloader. Am I missing something?
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Incorrect. SIM unlocking is not necessarily related to bootloader unlocking. While T-Mobile (and I think AT&T) users on here have found and reported that when they achieve SIM unlocking on their variants, that they can then bootloader unlock as well, Verizon has for a very, very long time enforced bootloader lock with all their will.
The only exceptions that I've ever heard of were not by choice of Verizon, but by hacks/vulnerabilities. Such as the VS985 LG G3, there was an exploit that didn't actually bootloader unlock, but more made it so that the locked bootloader didn't really matter. On the Pixel 1, if you had the Verizon variant and were still on Android 7.10 or below, you could unlock the bootloader, but once the 7.11 OTA came out, if you hadn't already unlocked the bootloader (or at least toggled the toggle), then you were locked in until a foreign national found a hacking way to get in, but they charge for it. All this while Verizon phones have been ultimately SIM unlocked for similarly a very long time.
mustangtim49 said:
It's not necessarily true, according to Verizon, they Sim unlock their phones after 60 days. Once that is done, we should be able to to check oem unlocking option in developers options and unlock the bootloader. Am I missing something?
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You might be thinking 'carrier unlocked' vs "bootloader unlocked".
VZW does NOT like people rooting their devices so they have locked the bootloaders for several years now. I honestly don't even think any devs are working on a workaround/bypass for VZW devices anymore because they've had a long history of tightly locking down their device's bootloaders.
Az Biker said:
You might be thinking 'carrier unlocked' vs "bootloader unlocked".
VZW does NOT like people rooting their devices so they have locked the bootloaders for several years now. I honestly don't even think any devs are working on a workaround/bypass for VZW devices anymore because they've had a long history of tightly locking down their device's bootloaders.
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No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information. If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point. I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
mustangtim49 said:
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information.
If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point.
I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
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I seriously doubt the "60 day sim unlock" allows the bootloader to be unlocked, otherwise we'd have a ton of VZW variant threads filled with development, and devices that are 61 days old, rooted, and running custom Roms.
But we don't. We don't have even have any developers working on VZW devices, regardless of age. So deductively thinking, the "60 day sim unlock" doesn't sound like it's currently an option.
Just my .02 (USD) worth
mustangtim49 said:
Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader.
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That has never, ever been the case with Verizon variants of phones. 1) Verizon phones have been SIM/carrier unlocked from the get-go for a very long time and 2) Except for rare anomalies like the Pixel 1 on Android 7.10 or below, OEM unlocking was always grayed out.
mustangtim49 said:
Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options.
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That has never happened on a VZ Pixel and it is not going to happen on this one. Why is this so hard for people to understand?
mustangtim49 said:
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information. If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point. I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
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sorry. your misinformed. Pixel devices from Verizon cannot have the bootloader unlocked. Period. end of story.
Have you ever had a Verizon device that was "carrier/sim unlocked" but couldn't unlock the bootloader? I have. and its real, so please research before you post misinformation.
mustangtim49 said:
No, I've been rooting/modding phones since eclair and used to be an XDA News writer, I definitely understand the difference between sim and bootloader unlocking. Once the phone is sim unlocked, the "OEM UNLOCK" option should no longer be greyed out in the developer options. Once that setting becomes available after sim unlock, there shouldn't be anything in the way of unlocking the bootloader. The only thing that could be an issue is if the manufacturer then required a token to unlock the bootloader, but I'm gonna go with Google isn't requiring that. Now, this is all based on my own knowledge and experience, if anyone has more insight to either back me up or shoot me down, please, this is the whole reason we're here in these threads, to gain knowledge and information. If Verizon is so informal about sim unlocking their phones after 60 days, it really doesn't make sense for them to enforce bootloader locking at that point. I mean, what is the point once they cut you loose with your sim card? Check this out, I had this ****ty Nord 10 5G from Metro and a guy figured out which apps to remove via ADB to carrier unlock the phone, hence making the OEM UNLOCK choice available in developer settings. What I'm saying is sometimes things aren't as locked down as you think, I mean, Metro is pretty strict on carrier locking their phones and really don't like doing it after you've met all the requirements. So if it's as easy as getting rid of a few apps via sneaking through ADB, it's gotta be that way for all the phones it's not like they're running different software (other than version level) they're all Android. Maybe this information will inspire someone on here that knows way more than me to figure out how to unlock a Verizon locked bootloader. If I'm correct, they really don't have that power to lock the bootloader, only to take away our option to do so by "sim/carrier" locking the phone which the software is told to take away our ability to choose that option. Please, anyone, I honestly would like to know if I'm wrong, but don't just say I'm wrong, explain to me and the rest of us. Thanks guys and girls!!!
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Unfortunately, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news because I didn't want to find this out for myself lol (but of course I really did), but I can tell everyone that I have the Verizon version and after 60..well a little after that because of course it was not as easy as their terms say on their website that it will automatically unlock after 60 days...yeah right..I had to call and chat I cant even tell you how many times...to finally get the right person to help me...which turned into waiting a few more days but he came through and unlocked it....
so the bad news: the oem unlock in developer options is still greyed out. Now it says to contact your carrier or connect to the internet
I still have hope for maybe one day? i mean there is ALWAYS a way to do anything on phones..someone smart enough just has to figure it out
mrindependent said:
Unfortunately, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news because I didn't want to find this out for myself lol (but of course I really did), but I can tell everyone that I have the Verizon version and after 60..well a little after that because of course it was not as easy as their terms say on their website that it will automatically unlock after 60 days...yeah right..I had to call and chat I cant even tell you how many times...to finally get the right person to help me...which turned into waiting a few more days but he came through and unlocked it....
so the bad news: the oem unlock in developer options is still greyed out. Now it says to contact your carrier or connect to the internet
I still have hope for maybe one day? i mean there is ALWAYS a way to do anything on phones..someone smart enough just has to figure it out
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This was the same for the Verizon Pixel 2 XL, and every Verizon Pixel since. No unlockable bootloader unfortunately.
My first foray into rooting was with the Galaxy Nexus. That had no issues unlocking the bootloader, and was the last phone I've bought at a store.
It's sad, that I can bring my rooted device and get a new line, but I can't tinker with their versions if I were to buy one at a store, online, whatever.
Their loss imo as there are a number of us I think, who would buy at the store if we could unlock the bootloader. I guess we as a group aren't big enough for them to worry about though.
You can however, play musical SIM card between devices, and it works. For the most part anyways.
I hate this.
What do they think people are just going to accidentally stumble on this, mistakenly download specific apps and Roms and out of the blue, randomly, and incorrectly, flash a very specific file causing the phone to brick and they don't want to keep fixing it?
Cause those Muppets all have iPhones...
Beyond stupid.
And here I was, done with how Samsung limited this process, so I ditched it for the shiny new Pixel... I'm the Muppet
tmessy said:
And here I was, done with how Samsung limited this process, so I ditched it for the shiny new Pixel
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Every Verizon variant of phones is locked down, and certainly, historically different models of them have been able to be either unlocked, or most of the time as far as I've experienced a workaround (security vulnerability) to unlocking was found (IIRC, the Stump method on LG phones worked this way), and the (again, as far as I'm aware) single time(s) that a Verizon phone was able to be bootloader unlocked as if it was made to be able to do so from the get-go, more or less: The Pixel 1 on Android 7.10 or below, and there is some foreign hacking method which can exploit some secret vulnerability if you're willing to pay to still be able to bootloader unlock the Pixel 1.
In my opinion, Samsung limits are even worse than the carrier-imposed limits, as Samsung keeps their phones from being bootloader unlocked on every U.S. Carrier, and even the direct from Samsung bought in the U.S. factory carrier unlocked model, but please correct me if I'm wrong. I only know the experience with the phones I've actually owned and what I remember from reading about others' experiences, however. The Exynos-based versions of Samsung phones are able to be bootloader unlocked at least in most countries, and again IIRC, some Snapdragon-based Samsungs in one or a few select countries too. Sony officially allows their bootloaders to be unlocked, but they purposefully and permanently gimp your phone's features if you do - and some other OEMs do similar, I'm given to understand.
I know it's frustrating about Verizon. Besides no longer buying carrier-specific models of phones, I no longer use Verizon as well, but it sucks for those who really need the carrier incentives.
roirraW edor ehT said:
Every Verizon variant of phones is locked down, and certainly, historically different models of them have been able to be either unlocked, or most of the time as far as I've experienced a workaround (security vulnerability) to unlocking was found (IIRC, the Stump method on LG phones worked this way), and the (again, as far as I'm aware) single time(s) that a Verizon phone was able to be bootloader unlocked as if it was made to be able to do so from the get-go, more or less: The Pixel 1 on Android 7.10 or below, and there is some foreign hacking method which can exploit some secret vulnerability if you're willing to pay to still be able to bootloader unlock the Pixel 1.
In my opinion, Samsung limits are even worse than the carrier-imposed limits, as Samsung keeps their phones from being bootloader unlocked on every U.S. Carrier, and even the direct from Samsung bought in the U.S. factory carrier unlocked model, but please correct me if I'm wrong. I only know the experience with the phones I've actually owned and what I remember from reading about others' experiences, however. The Exynos-based versions of Samsung phones are able to be bootloader unlocked at least in most countries, and again IIRC, some Snapdragon-based Samsungs in one or a few select countries too. Sony officially allows their bootloaders to be unlocked, but they purposefully and permanently gimp your phone's features if you do - and some other OEMs do similar, I'm given to understand.
I know it's frustrating about Verizon. Besides no longer buying carrier-specific models of phones, I no longer use Verizon as well, but it sucks for those who really need the carrier incentives.
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NOt every verizon phone, The samsung s20 bootloader was able to be unlocked.
lucky_strike33 said:
NOt every verizon phone, The samsung s20 bootloader was able to be unlocked.
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As it came without some temporary trick or vulnerability someone was able to take advantage of?