I purchased a Pixel XL from eBay because I read it was easy to unlock the bootloader. I must have received a Verizon model, because the OEM unlock option was disabled, despite spending an entire day trying every method to enable it that I could find. I finally gave up and returned the phone.
How do I go about finding a Pixel XL that's bootloader unlockable? The one I previously ordered was described as "New Google Pixel XL AT&T T-Mob Verizon", which indicated to me that it wasn't a Verizon specific model. Are there certain model numbers to look for? Does "factory unlocked" refer to the bootloader?
terzarima said:
I purchased a Pixel XL from eBay because I read it was easy to unlock the bootloader. I must have received a Verizon model, because the OEM unlock option was disabled, despite spending an entire day trying every method to enable it that I could find. I finally gave up and returned the phone.
How do I go about finding a Pixel XL that's bootloader unlockable? The one I previously ordered was described as "New Google Pixel XL AT&T T-Mob Verizon", which indicated to me that it wasn't a Verizon specific model. Are there certain model numbers to look for? Does "factory unlocked" refer to the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
People that put unlocked/Factory unlocked in their description usually mean carrier unlocked not bootloader unlockable or bootloader unlocked. If I remember correctly a Pixel XL with an IMEI that starts with 35 is not bootloader unlockable.
terzarima said:
I purchased a Pixel XL from eBay because I read it was easy to unlock the bootloader. I must have received a Verizon model, because the OEM unlock option was disabled, despite spending an entire day trying every method to enable it that I could find. I finally gave up and returned the phone.
How do I go about finding a Pixel XL that's bootloader unlockable? The one I previously ordered was described as "New Google Pixel XL AT&T T-Mob Verizon", which indicated to me that it wasn't a Verizon specific model. Are there certain model numbers to look for? Does "factory unlocked" refer to the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://swappa.com/mobile/buy/google-pixel-xl/unlocked
rodken said:
https://swappa.com/mobile/buy/google-pixel-xl/unlocked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In this context, does "unlocked" mean the bootloader is unlocked or it's just not locked to the Verizon network?
terzarima said:
In this context, does "unlocked" mean the bootloader is unlocked or it's just not locked to the Verizon network?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not locked to Verizon.
The following phones can be unlocked using a simple fastboot command. Doing so will not void the device's warranty, as the manufacturer has intentionally included this functionality.
Google Pixel, Pixel 2, Pixel 3 (non-Verizon models)
Google Pixel XL, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 3 XL (non-Verizon models)
Be certain to check the IMEI, Verizon models have an IMEI starting with 35 vs Google's 99
Keep in mind, SIM unlock and Bootloader unlock are two different things. You need to determine if your device is a Verizon SIM unlocked phone which allows you to use on any network with any SIM.
rodken said:
Not locked to Verizon.
The following phones can be unlocked using a simple fastboot command. Doing so will not void the device's warranty, as the manufacturer has intentionally included this functionality.
Google Pixel, Pixel 2, Pixel 3 (non-Verizon models)
Google Pixel XL, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 3 XL (non-Verizon models)
Be certain to check the IMEI, Verizon models have an IMEI starting with 35 vs Google's 99
Keep in mind, SIM unlock and Bootloader unlock are two different things. You need to determine if your device is a Verizon SIM unlocked phone which allows you to use on any network with any SIM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the bootloader is unlockable doesn't that mean you can use it on any carrier?
Homeboy76 said:
If the bootloader is unlockable doesn't that mean you can use it on any carrier?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is correct. Bear in mind that when you see a device advertised as unlocked, it is referring to the SIM not the bootloader unless other wise stated in the descrip.
rodken said:
Be certain to check the IMEI, Verizon models have an IMEI starting with 35 vs Google's 99
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the only way to tell is to turn the device on and check the IMEI? I was hoping there would be something printed on the box or on the back of the phone, like a UPC or model number.
terzarima said:
So the only way to tell is to turn the device on and check the IMEI? I was hoping there would be something printed on the box or on the back of the phone, like a UPC or model number.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it's not printed on the box, you would have to power on the device.
rodken said:
If it's not printed on the box, you would have to power on the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about the model number? I just noticed this on Wikipedia:
G-2PW2100 (North America)
G-2PW2200 (International)
Is the international version guaranteed to be non-Verizon? Would it even work in the US?
I also read somewhere that the non-Verizon model number includes 01x, while the Verizon model number has 02x. Is that accurate?
terzarima said:
What about the model number? I just noticed this on Wikipedia:
G-2PW2100 (North America)
G-2PW2200 (International)
Is the international version guaranteed to be non-Verizon? Would it even work in the US?
I also read somewhere that the non-Verizon model number includes 01x, while the Verizon model number has 02x. Is that accurate?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Pixel XL G-2PW2100 32GB; Network compatibility with all four major carriers.
Google Pixel XL G-2PW2200; Network compatibility with only AT&T and T-Mobile.
Keep in mind that Wikipedia is not a reliable source. Wikipedia can be edited by anyone at any time. This means that any information it contains at any particular time could be vandalism, a work in progress, or just plain wrong. But it is always a great place to start.
rodken said:
Google Pixel XL G-2PW2100 32GB; Network compatibility with all four major carriers.
Google Pixel XL G-2PW2200; Network compatibility with only AT&T and T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a theory in that case. If the phone is listed as GSM only, then it's guaranteed to be non-Verizon. Right?
terzarima said:
I have a theory in that case. If the phone is listed as GSM only, then it's guaranteed to be non-Verizon. Right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the phone does not have CDMA capabilities you would not be able activate the phone on Verizon. Whichever device you are considering needs to have the LTE band 13 for Verizon Wireless. Then it should also have the CDMA radios for Verizon Wireless unless it could function as an LTE only device with VoLTE. Verizon Compatibility Tool.
rodken said:
If the phone does not have CDMA capabilities you would not be able activate the phone on Verizon. Whichever device you are considering needs to have the LTE band 13 for Verizon Wireless. Then it should also have the CDMA radios for Verizon Wireless unless it could function as an LTE only device with VoLTE. Verizon Compatibility Tool.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, remember the question I'm trying to answer is how to ensure a phone I buy will be bootloader unlockable. I'm not interested in activating it on Verizon. My theory is that if the phone is GMS only, then it must be a Google model and therefore unlockable.
terzarima said:
Well, remember the question I'm trying to answer is how to ensure a phone I buy will be bootloader unlockable. I'm not interested in activating it on Verizon. My theory is that if the phone is GMS only, then it must be a Google model and therefore unlockable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let's be clear, Google Pixel and Pixel XL have unlockable bootloaders, with the exception of models purchased from Verizon or a Verizon branded device. Your theory does have enough evidence to support the hypothesis, GMS only, Unlockable Bootloader.
I'm currently on a Pixel 3XL but have a Pixel XL international model and it works perfect on Verizon. When I bought it, it was too insure that I received one with an unlockable BL and not the Verizon variety.
Gulfstream 650 said:
I'm currently on a Pixel 3XL but have a Pixel XL international model and it works perfect on Verizon. When I bought it, it was too insure that I received one with an unlockable BL and not the Verizon variety.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have a Pixel/Pixel XL with an unlockable bootloader, not a carrier unlocked Pixel/Pixel XL you should be able to unlock the bootloader. Guide (#3 Unlock bootloader).
Related
I recently upgraded from a Note 8 to a Pixel 2 XL unlocked verizon model.
Unfortunately I cannot root the phone so I can't use xposed for the ad blocking capabilities.
I was told that there was a virtural exposed that does similar things yet I used it and I cannot use it on youtube to block ads.
Without rooting is there any way I can block youtube ads and app ads similar to exposed?
I am using firefox with ublock so that helps but I would very much enjoy blocking youtube and other ads?
Also is there something similar to Air android for Pixel 2? I cannot use Air android for pixel 2 it keeps force closing. Not sure if its because of the phone or Android P?
Phone other wise is extremely great and I am using it on Android P
Would love suggestions for good cases and tempered glass
Thanks!
Dns66 would be your best bet for ad blocking without root.
TonikJDK said:
Dns66 would be your best bet for ad blocking without root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
where would I find the DNS66?
A small search using uncle google reveal the answer
js2shanks said:
I recently upgraded from a Note 8 to a Pixel 2 XL unlocked verizon model....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm curious, is your phone an unlocked model or a verizon model?
Where did you purchase your phone; Google Store? Did you purchase specifically the Verizon model from the Google Store?
Just checking, because if you did purchase an unlocked model and simply have a Verizon SIM in it, you are and would be able to root your phone...
Then, if you would be able to unlock the bootloader, many of your concerns could be addressed better having root access...
simplepinoi177 said:
I'm curious, is your phone an unlocked model or a verizon model?
Where did you purchase your phone; Google Store? Did you purchase specifically the Verizon model from the Google Store?
Just checking, because if you did purchase an unlocked model and simply have a Verizon SIM in it, you are and would be able to root your phone...
Then, if you would be able to unlock the bootloader, many of your concerns could be addressed better having root access...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm assuming he means carrier unlocked not bootloader unlocked.
fiffan86 said:
I'm assuming he means carrier unlocked not bootloader unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aaahhh...thank you for the clarification...
wait.....unless it's a verizon model, wouldn't they all be "carrier unlocked"? And, if so, it's only bootloader unlocked if it's a Verizon model, right?
Supposedly even the Verizon model is carrier unlocked. It however also has a locked bootloader. A device purchased direct from Google won't have a locked bootloader.
Funny story. I went into a Verizon store to get a case for my P2XL because Amazon couldn't tell the difference between a P2 and P2XL: they sent the wrong product. The Verizon rep asked me why I didn't buy my P2XL from them. Reply? "You lock your bootloaders." Without missing a beat the rep tried to say that they supposedly stopped doing that, to which I countered that I know more than a few people who would disagree with you. The "deer in the headlights" look and the mumbling about having to look into that [locked bootloader] was priceless.
Good story! Most Verizon emp's don't know what a bootloader is! ???
Youtube Vanced. Get the unrooted version.
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
Supposedly even the Verizon model is carrier unlocked. It however also has a locked bootloader. A device purchased direct from Google won't have a locked bootloader.
Funny story. I went into a Verizon store to get a case for my P2XL because Amazon couldn't tell the difference between a P2 and P2XL: they sent the wrong product. The Verizon rep asked me why I didn't buy my P2XL from them. Reply? "You lock your bootloaders." Without missing a beat the rep tried to say that they supposedly stopped doing that, to which I countered that I know more than a few people who would disagree with you. The "deer in the headlights" look and the mumbling about having to look into that [locked bootloader] was priceless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, trying to understand this all correctly, you could purchase a "Verizon model", and bring over to another US carrier (let's say AT&T) and it would work? Or even an EU carrier (although I've heard that there is a carrier lock for the first number of months [I think 9 months] before you can activate your US Pixel 2 in another country)?
And so, the only thing different between Verizon model and any other is only the bootloader? As you can supposedly activate the VZ model in other networks (not exclusively the use of Google's model) and/or it's not like you can't use/activate Google's model on Verizon's network?
...Outside of Verizon's exclusive deal with Google, I wonder why Google didn't just advertise is as Locked-Bootloader version and Unlocked-Bootloader version -- other than Verizon pulling the bait-and-switch locking the bootloader of a phone that's initially and naturally unlocked and/or didn't want it advertised that way due to negative connotation...
Verizon may also have it carrier locked. I don't have one and I'm not about to find out either since I steer far clear of Verizon. However, the only difference I can recall between the Google and Verizon P2XL is the bootloader. So if Verizon doesn't also SIM lock the P2XL, then you could buy a Verizon P2XL and use it on AT&T, T-Mobile, or any of their MVNOs like Straight Talk or Cricket just by swapping SIM cards.
Not to put too fine a point on it, but the fact Verizon locks the bootloader at all means you're better off with buying direct from Google, even though the deals are not nearly as significant as with Verizon/Best Buy.
You can get Verizon Motorola devices direct from Motorola. Unlike Motorola, Google doesn't offer the Verizon models in their store. Therefore Google doesn't have to advertise something that only appeals to a select group of owners. As for Verizon, there is no bait and switch here. Bait and switch involves substituting a product for a product the merchant has no intention of selling. Verizon isn't doing that, as all their devices are bootloader locked.
Hello folks,
I am sorry for adding one more question to this dilemma?
I just got a refurb Pixel XL from ebay. I specifically told the seller that I am looking for a google version and not verizon but it seems, they sent me Verizon version as OEM Unlocking is grayed out in Developer options. Is that the only test there is to figure out if its Verizon or Unlocked google phone?
One of the threads linked http://www.imeipro.info/check_lg.html but it doesn't recognize IMEI of the phone I received.
Finally, I found this thread, https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030 Can these instructions be used for a Verizon device running Android Pie/9.0? If yes, I will keep the device as its in pristine condition.
Thanks in advance, for all helpful comments.
You can unlock the bootloader on Verizon yes.
fuzzychicken said:
Hello folks,
I am sorry for adding one more question to this dilemma?
I just got a refurb Pixel XL from ebay. I specifically told the seller that I am looking for a google version and not verizon but it seems, they sent me Verizon version as OEM Unlocking is grayed out in Developer options. Is that the only test there is to figure out if its Verizon or Unlocked google phone?
One of the threads linked http://www.imeipro.info/check_lg.html but it doesn't recognize IMEI of the phone I received.
Finally, I found this thread, https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/how-to-unlock-bootloader-verizon-pixel-t3796030 Can these instructions be used for a Verizon device running Android Pie/9.0? If yes, I will keep the device as its in pristine condition.
Thanks in advance, for all helpful comments.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually bought an XL off eBay and sent it back as it was a Verizon, confirmed with a Google rep, and didn't know I could unlock the bootloader.
I bought another one and it was also a Verizon, but I did follow the guide after updating to Pie and it still works great. Now I'm fully rooted nad bootloader is unlocked.
Would unlocking the bootloader on a Verizon version essentially make it a normal Google Pixel XL? Any other differences? I want to use a Verizon Pixel for AT&T.
bobjohnson1221 said:
Would unlocking the bootloader on a Verizon version essentially make it a normal Google Pixel XL? Any other differences? I want to use a Verizon Pixel for AT&T.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No device difference. You would just use a GSM SIM for AT&T of course.
I just bought a pixel xl of 128gb, what is the exact way to know if it is a verizon version?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
So if I'm shopping for a used Pixel XL, how can I tell with models have an unlockable bootloader?
I had previously read that only Play Store editions are unlockable, so I was surprised to see this thread say Verizon is unlockable.
Th3DaRk_Vampire said:
I just bought a pixel xl of 128gb, what is the exact way to know if it is a verizon version?
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To see if your phone is Verizon, go here ( https://www.verizonwireless.com/od/prepaid/bring-your-own-device/?imei=352630085164358#/checkDevice) and enter your IMEI. You'll get one of two responses:
If it's a Verizon phone, it will say "Awesome, your Google Pixel XL, Phone by Google is a perfect match for our network.."
If it's not Verizon, it will say "Awesome, your Google PIXEL XL NON-VZW is a perfect match for our network."
It seems that Sprint and T-Mobile US both offer the Pixel 3/3 XL/3a/3a XL. Would Sprint/T-Mobile Pixels allow bootloader unlocking (unlike the Verizon versions)?
AFAIK, only verizon model has locked bootloader. There is no special model for Sprint/T-Mobile. This is only for the 3/3xl, 3a/3aXL is not out is not out yet. Nobody would really know.
wangdaning said:
AFAIK, only verizon model has locked bootloader. There is no special model for Sprint/T-Mobile. This is only for the 3/3xl, 3a/3aXL is not out is not out yet. Nobody would really know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was doing work at a T-Mobile store today, and they just got a shipment of the pixel 3a and pixel 3axl today. Don't say they aren't out. They had a demo out for the xl. Bootloader was locked also. Was unable to get developer options enabled on the regular 3a
---------- Post added at 11:05 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:03 PM ----------
abranson said:
I was doing work at a T-Mobile store today, and they just got a shipment of the pixel 3a and pixel 3axl today. Don't say they aren't out. They had a demo out for the xl. Bootloader was locked also. Was unable to get developer options enabled on the regular 3a
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Next time I'm at T-Mobile, I'll have to get pics, but I replace the hand scanners that go with T-Mobile iPads. Only way I knew they got them in today.
abranson said:
I was doing work at a T-Mobile store today, and they just got a shipment of the pixel 3a and pixel 3axl today.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair enough, but not many people have bought them or had time to play around with such things. There is not even a forum for them. I hope they make one or the Pixel 3/XL forums will be flooded with two devices each.
wangdaning said:
Fair enough, but not many people have bought them or had time to play around with such things. There is not even a forum for them. I hope they make one or the Pixel 3/XL forums will be flooded with two devices each.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is one, but it's empty, only due to it being announced today.
---------- Post added at 12:06 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:04 AM ----------
wangdaning said:
Fair enough, but not many people have bought them or had time to play around with such things. There is not even a forum for them. I hope they make one or the Pixel 3/XL forums will be flooded with two devices each.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is one, but it's empty, only due to it being announced today.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-3a
abranson said:
I was doing work at a T-Mobile store today, and they just got a shipment of the pixel 3a and pixel 3axl today. Don't say they aren't out. They had a demo out for the xl. Bootloader was locked also. Was unable to get developer options enabled on the regular 3a.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They could be "demo" units where developer options had to be locked (otherwise people could just steal phones by enabling OEM unlocking and running off). The Sprint/T-Mo Pixels may allow bootloader unlocking, they may not, who knows? I'd still prefer to buy carrier unlocked myself, but if the Sprint/T-Mo are bootloader unlocked then that makes my life easier if I buy used (or from a carrier).
I remember reading that the demo units of the European LG G5 were bootloader locked (maybe developer options grayed out) even when the retail versions weren't, so the Pixel 3/3a (XL) may be the same. But that was in 2016 (when I was hoping my Sprint LG G4 got bootloader unlocked somehow).
neelchauhan said:
They could be "demo" units where developer options had to be locked (otherwise people could just steal phones by enabling OEM unlocking and running off). The Sprint/T-Mo Pixels may allow bootloader unlocking, they may not, who knows? I'd still prefer to buy unlocked myself, but if the Sprint/T-Mo are bootloader unlocked then that makes my life easier if I buy used (or from a carrier).
I remember reading that the demo units of the European LG G5 were bootloader locked (maybe developer options grayed out) even when the retail versions weren't, so the Pixel 3/3a (XL) may be the same. But that was in 2016 (when I was hoping my Sprint LG G4 got bootloader unlocked somehow).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's possible. The manager was just tinkering with one he had bought this morning. The xl was a demo, but IDK. Anything is possible these days
neelchauhan said:
They could be "demo" units where developer options had to be locked (otherwise people could just steal phones by enabling OEM unlocking and running off). The Sprint/T-Mo Pixels may allow bootloader unlocking, they may not, who knows? I'd still prefer to buy carrier unlocked myself, but if the Sprint/T-Mo are bootloader unlocked then that makes my life easier if I buy used (or from a carrier).
I remember reading that the demo units of the European LG G5 were bootloader locked (maybe developer options grayed out) even when the retail versions weren't, so the Pixel 3/3a (XL) may be the same. But that was in 2016 (when I was hoping my Sprint LG G4 got bootloader unlocked somehow).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, please delete my comment. 8t appears I was speaking on incents last night.
smartymcfly said:
You can't enable unlocking oem unless you unlocked the bootloader first. You need to use a cpu to do that. Unlockable bootloaders would never be shipped to retail in an unlocked state.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are you smoking? You have to enable oem unlocking in developer options in order to unlock bootloader
And this is a Sprint pixel 3 xl, unfortunately it looks like we will not be able to get root
rayraycarter4 said:
And this is a Sprint pixel 3 xl, unfortunately it looks like we will not be able to get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And here I was thinking of changing from the V40 to the Google Pixel 3XL
Sent from my LG V40 using XDA Labs
rayraycarter4 said:
And this is a Sprint pixel 3 xl, unfortunately it looks like we will not be able to get root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Darn.
Would it be possible to enable OEM unlocking after SIM unlocking (like the T-Mobile OnePlus), or is this impossible.
One person on Reddit says T-Mobile Pixels allow bootloader unlocking: https://www.reddit.com/r/tmobile/comments/bmjw8x/pixel_3_bootloaders_can_be_unlocked/.
However, a T-Mobile employee said that you need to pay off the device before BL unlocking a T-Mo Pixel (like T-Mo OnePlus): https://www.reddit.com/r/tmobile/comments/bm9ayz/tmobile_says_pixel_3_devices_can_be_bootloader/.
As for sprint version, can we just flash the regular pixel firmware over sprints locked down version?
DR4LUC0N said:
As for sprint version, can we just flash the regular pixel firmware over sprints locked down version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No.
About Sprint, I am assuming it's the same game as T-Mobile: you need to SIM unlock before you can bootloader unlock. I could be wrong.
DR4LUC0N said:
As for sprint version, can we just flash the regular pixel firmware over sprints locked down version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no such thing as a Sprint software version, or a Verizon software version. There is only one software version, from Google.
TonikJDK said:
There is no such thing as a Sprint software version, or a Verizon software version. There is only one software version, from Google.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you need to check google on that. I am not aware of sprint or tmobile, but the verizon model does live among us.
got my 3axl today from sprint. OEM locked.. ill be a guinea pig. dont really care if the phone bricks
wangdaning said:
Maybe you need to check google on that. I am not aware of sprint or tmobile, but the verizon model does live among us.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The software is the same on both. Can't believe after all this time this topic still comes up.
Hi,
Anyone with the Best-buy Unlocked version can confirm if the bootloader is Unlocked? Perviously only the Verizon version was available with Bootloader locked, now with this models looks like all the devices will be bootloader unlockeable.
Thanks,
I guess a better question would be what pixel 3a XL have an unlocked bootloader? I am interested in buying one from t-mobile. I would assume the one sold at the google store has an unlocked bootloader.
Thanks for any information.
alphahere said:
I guess a better question would be what pixel 3a XL have an unlocked bootloader? I am interested in buying one from t-mobile. I would assume the one sold at the google store has an unlocked bootloader.
Thanks for any information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought the unlocked Pixel 3a XL at Best Buy today. The OEM unlock toggle in developer options is not greyed out. The bootloader is unlockable....
droidnew said:
I bought the unlocked Pixel 3a XL at Best Buy today. The OEM unlock toggle in developer options is not greyed out. The bootloader is unlockable....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you Sr.
alphahere said:
I guess a better question would be what pixel 3a XL have an unlocked bootloader? I am interested in buying one from t-mobile. I would assume the one sold at the google store has an unlocked bootloader.
Thanks for any information.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Per google all pixels are sold at carriers, except Verizon, are the same exact one sold from google store. They only include a sim for the carrier. Meaning they are sim unlocked, bootloader unlockable et ESIM ready. Verizon even on Pixel 3a had the ESIM removed or disabled. again. Do not buy from Verizon.
Best buy Unlocked, B&H video....are OK I will find out as soon as I pick mine from tmobile and will update this post.
nashi20002003 said:
Per google all pixels are sold at carriers, except Verizon, are the same exact one sold from google store. They only include a sim for the carrier. Meaning they are sim unlocked, bootloader unlockable et ESIM ready. Verizon even on Pixel 3a had the ESIM removed or disabled. again. Do not buy from Verizon.
Best buy Unlocked, B&H video....are OK I will find out as soon as I pick mine from tmobile and will update this post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please do. I'm anxious to pull the trigger today on a couple of Pixels from T-Mobile but won't if the bootloader is locked.
I purchased the 3a XL at Best Buy and was able to unlock the bootloader. Works fine on T-Mobile. Plus, BB gave me a $100 gift card with the purchase.
Phariex said:
Hi,
Anyone with the Best-buy Unlocked version can confirm if the bootloader is Unlocked? Perviously only the Verizon version was available with Bootloader locked, now with this models looks like all the devices will be bootloader unlockeable.
Thanks,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it's unlock-able just buy the carrier unlocked model not the Verizon one. Best Buy now sells all 4 models in the unlocked version.
TechOut said:
Yes it's unlock-able just buy the carrier unlocked model not the Verizon one. Best Buy now sells all 4 models in the unlocked version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also... Verizon Wi-Fi calling is working on my unlocked 3a XL. Just FYI stuff
droidnew said:
Also... Verizon Wi-Fi calling is working on my unlocked 3a XL. Just FYI stuff
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Each carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint) all have a Pixel variant now so as long as the carrier supports Wi-Fi calling on a BYOD phone it should work for the major carriers.
I'm wondering if the AT&t T-Mobile Sprint very in school out for bootloader unlock or if they're going the same way as Verizon with it not being unlockable I prefer just to buy it from the Google store and get the unlocked one but Best buy has it for $100 cheaper if you activate it through them Even the unlocked one so I don't know how that works.
I have the Tmo one. I see that damn unlock app in my drawer and sure enough, it's locked to the network. :/
nashi20002003 said:
Per google all pixels are sold at carriers, except Verizon, are the same exact one sold from google store. They only include a sim for the carrier. Meaning they are sim unlocked, bootloader unlockable et ESIM ready. Verizon even on Pixel 3a had the ESIM removed or disabled. again. Do not buy from Verizon.
Best buy Unlocked, B&H video....are OK I will find out as soon as I pick mine from tmobile and will update this post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just asked B&H about their listing and according to the B&H rep.. LTE Band 71 is missing on the B&H model. Does not make sense but that is what they told me and it is on the question and answer page. So if you are going to use T-Mobile avoid this model.
---------- Post added at 12:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:47 PM ----------
CHH2 said:
I have the Tmo one. I see that damn unlock app in my drawer and sure enough, it's locked to the network. :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That it for me, I need a unlocked phone. Thanks! I am going to get the bestbuy version. Is the bootloader unlockable on the t-mobile version?
alphahere said:
I just asked B&H about their listing and according to the B&H rep.. LTE Band 71 is missing on the B&H model. Does not make sense but that is what they told me and it is on the question and answer page. So if you are going to use T-Mobile avoid this model.
---------- Post added at 12:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:47 PM ----------
That it for me, I need a unlocked phone. Thanks! I am going to get the bestbuy version. Is the bootloader unlockable on the t-mobile version?
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The specs over on the Google store site says that band 71 is there. And I have no idea if the bootloader in unlockable? How do I check?
GokuSSJgod said:
I'm wondering if the AT&t T-Mobile Sprint very in school out for bootloader unlock or if they're going the same way as Verizon with it not being unlockable I prefer just to buy it from the Google store and get the unlocked one but Best buy has it for $100 cheaper if you activate it through them Even the unlocked one so I don't know how that works.
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That would be a BB gift card. Google Store has the same $100 credit for the Google Store so I don't think that I'd say it was $100 cheaper at BB.
bobby janow said:
That would be a BB gift card. Google Store has the same $100 credit for the Google Store so I don't think that I'd say it was $100 cheaper at BB.
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My main query was about the bootloader status if it's going to be like Verizon on the other carriers or if it's going to be like the unlocked from Google Which Best buy selling and yeah.
GokuSSJgod said:
My main query was about the bootloader status if it's going to be like Verizon on the other carriers or if it's going to be like the unlocked from Google Which Best buy selling and yeah.
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Yes, I know that. I think that has been answered in that only the Verizon model will be bl locked. But I'd still like to see a few more confirmations of it.
CHH2 said:
The specs over on the Google store site says that band 71 is there. And I have no idea if the bootloader in unlockable? How do I check?
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https://www.techmesto.com/how-to-check-android-bootloader-lock-status-from-fastboot/
bobby janow said:
Yes, I know that. I think that has been answered in that only the Verizon model will be bl locked. But I'd still like to see a few more confirmations of it.
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Of course the Verizon is locked. I'm wondering if someone can answer the variants for T-Mobile, Sprint and at&t. Unless those models are just the Google store unlocked models which would be amazing!
CHH2 said:
I have the Tmo one. I see that damn unlock app in my drawer and sure enough, it's locked to the network. :/
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But is the allow oem Unlocking toggle in dev options grayed out?
I see a lot of attempts to unlock the Verizon Pixel XLs bootloader, some seem to work sometimes, some do not
I'm in the market for a new original Pixel XL. It's only going to be used over wifi, so I do not care what model or networks it's on, etc.
What should I look for in a device if I want it to be the easiest possible one to unlock the bootloader? Are there versions of the pixel xl that *come* with an unlocked bootloader?
phnord said:
I see a lot of attempts to unlock the Verizon Pixel XLs bootloader, some seem to work sometimes, some do not
I'm in the market for a new original Pixel XL. It's only going to be used over wifi, so I do not care what model or networks it's on, etc.
What should I look for in a device if I want it to be the easiest possible one to unlock the bootloader? Are there versions of the pixel xl that *come* with an unlocked bootloader?
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The Pixel XL is 5-6 years old. Not much chance of finding a new one. None come bootloader unlocked unless used. Only ones bought from Google store instead of Verizon are for sure bootloader unlockable.
Tulsadiver said:
The Pixel XL is 5-6 years old. Not much chance of finding a new one. None come bootloader unlocked unless used. Only ones bought from Google store instead of Verizon are for sure bootloader unlockable.
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Thanks, but only the last bit is relevant to my question
I am aware of how old the Pixel XL is. I am aware that I'm getting a refurbished or used one. Thanks.
So from what I am hearing, then, the ones Verizon sold still have issues with the bootloader unlock, whereas the ones Google sold are easy to bootloader unlock. And those were the only two sources?
Is there a way to distinguish between the two? Is there a different model number, serial number range, etc.?
THAT is the question I'm asking. Not whether I can get it new...?
phnord said:
Thanks, but only the last bit is relevant to my question
I am aware of how old the Pixel XL is. I am aware that I'm getting a refurbished or used one. Thanks.
So from what I am hearing, then, the ones Verizon sold still have issues with the bootloader unlock, whereas the ones Google sold are easy to bootloader unlock. And those were the only two sources?
Is there a way to distinguish between the two? Is there a different model number, serial number range, etc.?
THAT is the question I'm asking. Not whether I can get it new...?
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I just bought a new google one off ebay, they are still out there, you just might have to hunt a little and take a bit of a chance.
Probably don't go with the phones4all seller however, though new he seems to be selling what are original verizon models though carrier unlocked.
On the Pixel 2 forums people have been able to distinguish between verizon and google by contacting google w phone info, I don't know if there's any other good way.