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If you're looking for something to ask motorola that will make our phones better, is possible for them to do and is almost somewhat expected (I keep thinking about how they say they're striving to work with the rom development community ...) feel free to post your thoughts for motorola here. An unlocked bootloader would allow us to run a custom kernel on our phones, I imagine CM9 would be up within days of motorola offering a bootloader unlock solution!!
Excellent point! I think begging for an early upgrade is silly, but asking for an unlocked bootloader would make our phones that much better. I would rather have a D3 with lots of Dev support, than a locked down D4. I came from a droid Incredible and the Dev support was great, and it breathed life into a phone that was somewhat dated.
Dear Moto, please unlock the bootloader.
Sent from my DROID3 using XDA App
Willis111 said:
I imagine CM9 would be up within days of motorola offering a bootloader unlock solution!!
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Running CM9 now... only real issues are Camera, B key not working on keyboard, and the data being somewhat flaky for people, although it works fine once you get it going. Just be patient, we have great devs and don't really need an unlock. It would be nice though.
Motorola is okay with unlocking the bootloader from what I've heard but Verizon doesn't want it. From locked bootloaders to forced bloatware to removing Google Wallet from the Nexus, its clear that Verizon just loves to screw with Android. When are they going to learn the most people only want to use your network, we could care less about anything you have to offer.
I would sign that petition
xt860, android 2.3.5, Eclipse 1.1.1
I'd be happy with an unlocked bootloader. This phone has the power to run ICS. Even if they never give us ICS, make it easy to make on our own...cause we sure as hell will.
spunker88 said:
Motorola is okay with unlocking the bootloader from what I've heard but Verizon doesn't want it. From locked bootloaders to forced bloatware to removing Google Wallet from the Nexus, its clear that Verizon just loves to screw with Android. When are they going to learn the most people only want to use your network, we could care less about anything you have to offer.
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idk y Verizon would let samsung unlock bootloaders and not motorola. Nexus is unlockable. Google Wallet is blocked becasue Verizon (+partners) spent $100Million (or something ridic) in a very similar banking product.
I was referencing a story where Verizon removed the option to unlock the bootloader on the Razr.
http://techcrunch.com/2011/10/24/mo...oader-tool-for-droid-razr-verizon-removes-it/
maybe we should start a petition to verizon to get a unlockable to all of there phones because its more and more on verizon then the companys, HTC listen, Moto said they would be nothing from Verizon
MrJudylicious said:
idk y Verizon would let samsung unlock bootloaders and not motorola. Nexus is unlockable.
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Since it is a development phone for the new OS, I think that the Nexus *must* be unlockable. It's the same reason why the Xoom is unlockable - it was the reference device for Honeycomb. So, if the next Nexus phone is Motorola, and it's on Verizon, it should also be unlockable.
Google Wallet is blocked becasue Verizon (+partners) spent $100Million (or something ridic) in a very similar banking product.
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Maybe, or perhaps it was because of this?: Google Wallet stores too much unencrypted data in a rooted device--report
doogald said:
Maybe, or perhaps it was because of this?: Google Wallet stores too much unencrypted data in a rooted device--report
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I wonder if they would consider that when they disallow rooting in the first place. More likely a play to insure that phone's stay locked to their network with their software. I can also see it from a support perspective but with custom roms available you change your first support step to "restore the original software, does it work now" and continue like normal from there.
And it appears to be a Verizon moto X with towel Pie installed on it. So technically unlocked but I'm a little dubious as to whether I should just return this phone.
I didn't know what towel pie was at the time and didn't know the phone wasn't actually unlocked. The guy I bought it from said that verizon moto X phones were just naturally unlocked. I didn't really find that credible at the time but assumed the phone was nonetheless unlocked now.
After playing with the phone, I find that its not actually fully unlocked but rather has this program running on it that fights the Verizon firmware to effectively make it unlocked.
Here is what I want. I want this permanently rooted without any program running in the background to reroot the phone every time. And I want all the verizon logos off my login screens etc. Is there some sort of clean rom I can write over this thing that just has it unlocked?
I am not using Verizon as a carrier.
What do you think guys. Did I get scammed? I paid 400 USD for this phone. Prompt reply would be appreciated since I think I can still return it if I'm quick about it.
Thank you for your time.
Karmashock said:
And it appears to be a Verizon moto X with towel Pie installed on it. So technically unlocked but I'm a little dubious as to whether I should just return this phone.
I didn't know what towel pie was at the time and didn't know the phone wasn't actually unlocked. The guy I bought it from said that verizon moto X phones were just naturally unlocked. I didn't really find that credible at the time but assumed the phone was nonetheless unlocked now.
After playing with the phone, I find that its not actually fully unlocked but rather has this program running on it that fights the Verizon firmware to effectively make it unlocked.
Here is what I want. I want this permanently rooted without any program running in the background to reroot the phone every time. And I want all the verizon logos off my login screens etc. Is there some sort of clean rom I can write over this thing that just has it unlocked?
I am not using Verizon as a carrier.
What do you think guys. Did I get scammed? I paid 400 USD for this phone. Prompt reply would be appreciated since I think I can still return it if I'm quick about it.
Thank you for your time.
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HAHA. I think there was some mis-communication there.
OK: There are 2 types of "unlocked":
1. SIM-Unlocked: Verizon phones ARE "naturally" SIM-Unlocked, and you can use them on any GSM carrier.
2. Bootloader-Unlocked: ALL Verizon phones (aside from the Developer Edition), can NOT have their bootloader's unlocked. Verizon forbids motoorola from allowing you to unlock your bootloader. "Towel Pie Root" doesn't even come close to the functionality of an unlocked bootloader -- there's simply no comparison. There is absolutely NO WAY to unlock your bootloader, except for one possibility.
See this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/china-middleman-t2751177
It will cost you money -- but if he doesn't have your code you get refunded. If you DO get a code, your bootloader will be permanently unlocked, and for all essence, it will be an unofficial "Developer Edition".
And finally -- in my opinion, $400 is QUITE excessive for what is really just a standard run-of-the-mill Verizion Moto X, with nothing special about it at all. The average selling price is currently $220 on swappa.com
If it were ME, I'd return it and find a bootloader-unlocked VZW Moto X, or the Verizon DEVELOPER edition Moto X.
Just be careful!!! Many Moto X's on swappa say that they are "unlocked", but this refers to SIM-UNLOCKED. Make sure it -explicitly- says "BOOTLOADER UNLOCKED".
Good Luck!!!
EDIT: Now that I see that you are NOT using verizon as your carrier, I would suggest that you buy an XT1053 instead.
The XT1053 has NO carrier branding, and it can be bootloader-unlocked FREE, direct from Motorola's website.
The price is slightly more than the VZW version - XT1053's are currently averaging $260 on swappa. They are ALL Sim-Unlocked, and bootloader-unlockable.
That's FAR less than the $400 you paid......
the sale is still going on on Motorola's website $324.99 brand new Dev Edition unlocked bootloader
samwathegreat said:
HAHA. I think there was some mis-communication there.
OK: There are 2 types of "unlocked":
1. SIM-Unlocked: Verizon phones ARE "naturally" SIM-Unlocked, and you can use them on any GSM carrier.
2. Bootloader-Unlocked: ALL Verizon phones (aside from the Developer Edition), can NOT have their bootloader's unlocked. Verizon forbids motoorola from allowing you to unlock your bootloader. "Towel Pie Root" doesn't even come close to the functionality of an unlocked bootloader -- there's simply no comparison. There is absolutely NO WAY to unlock your bootloader, except for one possibility.
See this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/china-middleman-t2751177
It will cost you money -- but if he doesn't have your code you get refunded. If you DO get a code, your bootloader will be permanently unlocked, and for all essence, it will be an unofficial "Developer Edition".
And finally -- in my opinion, $400 is QUITE excessive for what is really just a standard run-of-the-mill Verizion Moto X, with nothing special about it at all. The average selling price is currently $220 on swappa.com
If it were ME, I'd return it and find a bootloader-unlocked VZW Moto X, or the Verizon DEVELOPER edition Moto X.
Just be careful!!! Many Moto X's on swappa say that they are "unlocked", but this refers to SIM-UNLOCKED. Make sure it -explicitly- says "BOOTLOADER UNLOCKED".
Good Luck!!!
EDIT: Now that I see that you are NOT using verizon as your carrier, I would suggest that you buy an XT1053 instead.
The XT1053 has NO carrier branding, and it can be bootloader-unlocked FREE, direct from Motorola's website.
The price is slightly more than the VZW version - XT1053's are currently averaging $260 on swappa. They are ALL Sim-Unlocked, and bootloader-unlockable.
That's FAR less than the $400 you paid......
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A lot of my issue here is that I'm under some time pressure. My old phone broke and I really just need something to replace it now. So i got what i could get in a short amount of time.
That said, I'm only willing to put up with so much crap. I don't mind over paying a bit. I do mind not getting what I want.
Now, I do believe this is the developer edition. It gives me access to developer tools in the settings and the phone info information seemed to be what developer editions say. Is there a way I can confirm this?
And if it is a Verizon developer edition Moto X, can I properly root it and clean all this verizon garbage off my phone? It seemed like you suggested that if this were a Verizon developer edition Moto X I could still root it?
Please let me know. I'll eat the price hike as a convenience charge but I really can't put up with having it permanently crippled by Verizon.
Karmashock said:
A lot of my issue here is that I'm under some time pressure. My old phone broke and I really just need something to replace it now. So i got what i could get in a short amount of time.
That said, I'm only willing to put up with so much crap. I don't mind over paying a bit. I do mind not getting what I want.
Now, I do believe this is the developer edition. It gives me access to developer tools in the settings and the phone info information seemed to be what developer editions say. Is there a way I can confirm this?
And if it is a Verizon developer edition Moto X, can I properly root it and clean all this verizon garbage off my phone? It seemed like you suggested that if this were a Verizon developer edition Moto X I could still root it?
Please let me know. I'll eat the price hike as a convenience charge but I really can't put up with having it permanently crippled by Verizon.
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Enabling "Developer Options" can be done on any phone. Once again, this also has absolutely nothing to do with rooting or unlocking the bootloader. If it WERE the dev edition, the previous owner would have no reason, whatsoever to install TowelPieRoot. That's just silly to use an "exploit" on a phone with an unlocked bootloader.
TowelPieRoot DOES allow you to root the phone - but that will disappear when you update to 4.4.4 -- the new update patches the exploit used by TPR. After this, it will be permanently un-rootable unless you can unlock the BL.
You are completely out-of-luck, sir. Unless you want to roll the dice and spend another $45 in hopes that the "chinaman" might have an unlock code for you. I gave you the link in my first reply to you.
Unless the phone has a Black front, with a woven white back, it is NOT the unlockable developer edition. Sorry. Anything else is just a regular Moto X.
samwathegreat said:
Enabling "Developer Options" can be done on any phone. Once again, this also has absolutely nothing to do with rooting or unlocking the bootloader. If it WERE the dev edition, the previous owner would have no reason, whatsoever to install TowelPieRoot. That's just silly to use an "exploit" on a phone with an unlocked bootloader.
TowelPieRoot DOES allow you to root the phone - but that will disappear when you update to 4.4.4 -- the new update patches the exploit used by TPR. After this, it will be permanently un-rootable unless you can unlock the BL.
You are completely out-of-luck, sir. Unless you want to roll the dice and spend another $45 in hopes that the "chinaman" might have an unlock code for you. I gave you the link in my first reply to you.
Unless the phone has a Black front, with a woven white back, it is NOT the unlockable developer edition. Sorry. Anything else is just a regular Moto X.
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Thank you for your reply and do not take my stupid questions as a lack of appreciation or respect for your assistence. I'm just trying to understand if I'm mostly screwed or totally screwed.
In the sense of the princess bride... where he was "mostly dead" but not totally dead.
For example, does this work:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=45598648
Is there nothing that can root the bootloader on a verizon moto X?
If not, then thank you for helping me. If there is a way... I might be willing to try it.
Karmashock said:
Thank you for your reply and do not take my stupid questions as a lack of appreciation or respect for your assistence. I'm just trying to understand if I'm mostly screwed or totally screwed.
In the sense of the princess bride... where he was "mostly dead" but not totally dead.
For example, does this work:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=45598648
Is there nothing that can root the bootloader on a verizon moto X?
If not, then thank you for helping me. If there is a way... I might be willing to try it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think you are understanding.....
There is no such thing as "rooting the bootloader".
Your bootloader is either unlocked, or it isn't.
There are some "Exploits" that the exploited vulnerabilities in android and allowed you to "root" or "disable write protection", but none of them are permanent solutions. Since they are "Exploits", they can be patched by future updates. They don't "root the bootloader" - they "root the android OS".
ALL exploits, including the one you have linked above HAVE BEEN PATCHED. The only working exploit is TowelPieRoot -- but it does NOT disable write protection. It isn't very useful, and it is not permanent. As I previously told you, once you update to 4.4.4 your phone will be PERMANENTLY un-rootable. Period.
The only way to gain "permanent root and write-protection disable" is to unlock the bootloader. You can NOT unlock the bootloader on a VZW device. Period. Not unless it is a Dev Edition, OR you are able to obtain a bootloader unlock-code from the china middleman that I linked you to before.
There are NO EXCEPTIONS. As I already told you, you are 100% out-of-luck, UNLESS your phone has a black front and woven white back, OR you are able to unlock through the middleman at a cost of $45. There is NO OTHER WAY. None.
Please trust me - I know what I'm talking about 100%. I've only given you the facts. Now you must choose what to do with these facts.
if you can get your money back get your money back moto will FedEx you the brand new dev edition for $324.99 you will have it in 3 or 4 days probably until then get on Craigslist buy a hundred dollar droid to use until then and sell it afterwords
samwathegreat said:
I don't think you are understanding.....
There is no such thing as "rooting the bootloader".
Your bootloader is either unlocked, or it isn't.
There are some "Exploits" that the exploited vulnerabilities in android and allowed you to "root" or "disable write protection", but none of them are permanent solutions. Since they are "Exploits", they can be patched by future updates. They don't "root the bootloader" - they "root the android OS".
ALL exploits, including the one you have linked above HAVE BEEN PATCHED. The only working exploit is TowelPieRoot -- but it does NOT disable write protection. It isn't very useful, and it is not permanent. As I previously told you, once you update to 4.4.4 your phone will be PERMANENTLY un-rootable. Period.
The only way to gain "permanent root and write-protection disable" is to unlock the bootloader. You can NOT unlock the bootloader on a VZW device. Period. Not unless it is a Dev Edition, OR you are able to obtain a bootloader unlock-code from the china middleman that I linked you to before.
There are NO EXCEPTIONS. As I already told you, you are 100% out-of-luck, UNLESS your phone has a black front and woven white back, OR you are able to unlock through the middleman at a cost of $45. There is NO OTHER WAY. None.
Please trust me - I know what I'm talking about 100%. I've only given you the facts. Now you must choose what to do with these facts.
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*sigh* Oh well.
Thank you. I'll just get the cheapest phone I can find at the store and get my money back for this one.
well im gonna order the new verizon developer edition for 324.99 than and unlock the bootloader and wipe all the verizon crap off it and permanently root it
Karmashock said:
And it appears to be a Verizon moto X with towel Pie installed on it. So technically unlocked but I'm a little dubious as to whether I should just return this phone..
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Click to collapse
A couple of questions I haven't seen asked...
On the phone go to App Drawer -> Settings -> About phone... What is listed as the SYSTEM VERSION.
Next, what does the BACK of the phone look like or say? Does it have the Verizon logo on it? Does it have the words Developer Edition on the back? Does it have SMALL HARD TO READ Fine print at the bottom that says a model number? Or did it come with the original box that has the IMEI and Model on it? (the model would be XT1060, XT1053, XT1058, etc)
What carrier are you intending to use it with?
Power off the phone, then press the power and volume down buttons simultaneously NOTE: you may need to have the USB cable disconnected first. This will bring you into the AP Fastboot Flash Mode screen (aka bootloader or fastboot mode). It will say DEVICE IS... unlocked or locked. Which is it?
I am asking these questions to know 1. What model X you have, 2. if it is bootloader unlocked, and 3 what rom version is on there.
That will help us guide you further.
@samwathegreat already did a great job explaining Boot Loader Unlock vs SIM Unlock. I've got a long and deeper explaination on bootloader unlocking and effects on rooting at -> http://mark.cdmaforums.com/MotoX-Locked.html It does need to be updated to cover rooting on 4.4.4 with a LOCKED bootloader is not possible.
In short, if your answers to my questions reveal you have a Verizon X that is not a developer edition phone, then the only way to unlock the bootloader is if you can buy a code from the China Middle Man. Unlocking the bootloader is essential these days if you want a full and working ROOT solution.
If you have a Verizon X that you are trying to use on T-Mobile, or ATT, then you might be OK as long as you don't need/want to root it, and are fine with running the stock Verizon ROM. You just might have some limits too (like not be being able to do Voice and LTE data at the same time)
Oh, but to get rid of some of the Verizon bloat, you will need to root it and delete the APK's which would impact future OTAs, or use something like Titanium Backup to freeze them. Both options need you to be rooted.
---------- Post added at 03:08 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:02 PM ----------
Karmashock said:
*sigh* Oh well.
Thank you. I'll just get the cheapest phone I can find at the store and get my money back for this one.
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OK... just saw this.. so never mind what I just posted. Good luck.
If you really want an X, Let us know what carrier, and I would still recommend a Dev Edition, either the GSM or the VZW version depending on your carrier, especially while they stay on sale for $325.99. Any non-contract phone you can get is going to be near that cost, or above.
i hope the devs support the droid turbo.
verizon locks down the droid tight.
With the nexus 6 also coming out it'll be a coin toss. Motorola has been cool about it since Google had it but now Lenovo takes over...
i think Sunshine V3.0 will work.. fingers crossed.
its so similar in hardware to nexus 6, time will tell.
Jaocagomez said:
its so similar in hardware to nexus 6, time will tell.
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I think the comparison would be to a moto X 2nd Gen. It's got more similar firmware.
Sent from my unlocked consumer edition Motorola Droid Maxx xt1080m.
Jaocagomez said:
its so similar in hardware to nexus 6, time will tell.
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It literally takes ONE TINY THING which has nothing to do with advertised specs to make the phone bullet proof, or at least impermeable by usual means.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=56172538&postcount=20
jmonroe0914 said:
If you're going to comment on a dev forum, at least understand the terminology before you use it... otherwise it makes you seem ignorant. "UNLOCKED" and "UNLOCKING THE BOOTLOADER" are two very different things that have ZERO to do with one another.
All LTE CDMA phones for the past 2 years that use a SIM are "unlocked", as this refers to the carrier lock that is placed on the device when it is sold in bulk to network providers (which is why you have three network settings in your phones setting menu - LTE, GSM, and Global). Don't use terminology you don't understand, as you're adding to the ignorance too many seem to have about what unlocking is and what unlocking a bootloader is. It makes it only that much harder for other individuals to get the correct information, and is the reason why a VZW rep tried to tell me I don't need a developer edition to unlock my phone, because all LTE devices are unlocked when I tried to explain I was looking for a developer edition so I could unlock the bootloader.
Very few Verizon phones have the capability to unlock the phone's bootloader, which allows for rooting without an exploit and the ability to flash custom ROMs (firmware), such as Cyanagenmod. Those of you believing root will appear on any new Motorola phones are not well versed in Motorola phones sold by Verizon. Dan Rosenberg, who is the person anyone with a Motorola device on Verizon has to to thank for the last half decade of being able to root your Motorola VZW phones, has repeatedly posted on numerous threads for over a year to not expect for your Motorola devices to be rooted and if you want root, either buy a Nexus or buy a Developer Edition (if VZW is going to release any more editions after the S5 is not known and information about Developer Editions for the Note 4 Droid Turbo have been repeatedly ignored by VZW's Public Affairs office). This is due to the fact VZW has wizened up and made finding an exploit on anything past 4.4.4 nigh impossible. Exploits that allow root access are not easy to find (taking several months for most VZW Moto root exploits) and as soon as one is found, within a matter of weeks, if not days, VZW will push an automatic update, forcing your phone to update to patch the exploit. This is why when you root your phone you're told to disable OTA updates at the apk level by freezing the update apk or removing it all together after making a backup of it.
Many Motorola users got a surprise in late Spring when a Moto employee "accidentally" included the exploited code that allowed you to blow the fuse and unlock the bootloader of devices running 4.4.2. That was a once in a billion opportunity that will probably never happen again. Every time an exploit has been found that allowed root access or the ability to unlock the bootloader (which was only recently cracked in the past year, possibly two... to put that in perspective, it took over half a decade for Dan Rosenberg to find the exploit that allowed the internal fuse to be blown, unlocking the bootloader). Exploits are not easy things to find, especially in Motorola devices running on VZW's network.
To all of those that like to post root bounties... BUY A DEVELOPER EDITION. You'll pay $300 for a device and then offer $300+ for a root bounty... which is the cost of developer edition device... considering VZW offers Edge, you no longer have to pay full retail in one go for a DE. From this point forward, VZW customers need to comprehend the fact that rooting will continue to be increasingly difficult to perform, most especially on Moto phones running on VZW's network. If you want root access, buy the S5 developer edition or wait until the first week of december to see if a developer edition for the Note 4 will be released (if a Note 4 DE is going to be released, it will occur within the 4 - 6 weeks following it's RTM on 10/23 [Thursday]).
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The answer is no, you will probably never see a root exploit for the Droid Turbo. The person above linked to one of my prior posts on a different thread, and it comes down to two fundamental facts... there is probably not going to be a DE of the Turbo because of the Nexus 6, and rooting a non-bootloader unlocked device once it's running Android 5.0 [Lollipop] and beyond is damn near impossible. The latter has to do withe SELinux and how Google locked down the partitions and permissions. ChainFire wrote two posts on Google+ that explain in great detail why those without unlocked bootloader can kiss rooting goodbye. It's not impossible, however it is highly improbable a root exploit will be found, in the same way it's possible the Earth could be hit today by a 5 mile wide asteroid, but it's highly improbable.
The new security features Google built into Android 5.0 is a double edged sword... on one hand they've finally addressed issues that, as of today, make Android the least secure OS on the market; however, the security that all of us most definitely want makes it highly unlikely a root exploit could be run on a non-bootloader unlocked device. The only reason it would work on an unlocked bootloader device is because a previous kernel could be flashed that would allow the exploit to run at bootup (flashing kernels is prevented by locked bootloaders).
Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk
I hope so
Is there a way to unlock the Moto G6 without getting the code from a database?
Is there a way to read the unlock code from the phone itself?
What other methods could be used to unlock it?
Mine is locked to Tracfone and they do not give out the codes.
Thanks for your help.
I'm not very programming savvy, I'd appreciate if you could keep it simple.
Unfortunately, I don't believe there is a network unlock for the Tracfone variant.
Tracfone variants of phones have always been notoriously... difficult with this stuff, and I doubt the Moto G6 is one of the few exceptions.
You can always do a data backup, and sell the phone to buy an unlocked one.
Ever since I first got tired of the carrier locking crap, that oftentimes makes not only unlocking more difficult, if not impossible, but also has a history of making any sort of exploitability quite a bit harder, or impossible, eslecially with older devices. Some Tracfone variant devices are extremely lucky to have a working root exploit.
Some Tracfone variant devices are unbelievably lucky to even recieve software updates at all! I have a ZTE Max Duo from Tracfone, that is running the release Android 6.0 firmware, with no regard for even basic security updates. The other variants of this phone, as I remember, at least got updated to 6.0.1, with a few security patches later on.
With everything I've said in mind, I've only ever purchased carrier unlocked phones since I got tired of the whole shebang, and I highly recommend the same to anyone else; No carrier apps, no difficulties, almost always better software support, and more. In fact, my current phone is an unlocked G6, and the one before that an unlocked G5s Plus. Both have been great phones, and when the G8 releases, hopefully having overcome notch city, and ignored pinhole palace, I might have to buy one of those as well, because not only have the phones themselves been great, but the reasons I listed off have definitely shown, and IMHO, improved the user experience immensely.
Sorry I wasn't able to offer help in the way you wanted, but at least I was able to share my experiences, which will hopefully help you in the long run.
TL;DR A phone with the three ring Tracfone logo printed on it is definitely going to be hard to carrier unlock, and probably going to be harder to root or rom, depending on the phone.
I have to root my phones (not wanting to pay $30 for Verizon tether), is anyone aware if the Pixel 4 XL from Verizon will have the bootloader locked, and unable to be rooted? In addition to that, would we see a root for the unlocked version? Thanks
Pretty sure most carrier devices are going to remain locked until you pay it off. At least, that's the logical rationale. I can't imagine they want people unlocking devices they haven't paid for. As far as root, that should be a simple process of just patching the boot.img
ZeroKool76 said:
Pretty sure most carrier devices are going to remain locked until you pay it off. At least, that's the logical rationale. I can't imagine they want people unlocking devices they haven't paid for. As far as root, that should be a simple process of just patching the boot.img
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Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the lock not something they ever lift? My current 2 XL was paid retail but they never allowed me to unlock the bootloader. They do allow for any carrier SIM to be used in it.
psone said:
Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the lock not something they ever lift? My current 2 XL was paid retail but they never allowed me to unlock the bootloader. They do allow for any carrier SIM to be used in it.
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If you bought the Verizon Pixel 2 XL it had a locked bootloader. Since it was exclusive to Verizon. The unlocked version directly from Google did not have a locked bootloader. That was the same for the Pixel 3 and 3 XL. I am not sure about the Pixel 3a and 3a XL since it was not exclusive to Verizon.
Does anyone know if the Pixel 3a or 3a XL came with a locked bootloader?
EDIT: There's a thread over on the Pixel 3a XL where a bunch of carrier and non-carrier devices had locked bootloaders. I would be careful which device you buy going forward until you hear others chime in on the greyed out unlocked button.
When in doubt, buy directly from Google.
psone said:
Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't the lock not something they ever lift? My current 2 XL was paid retail but they never allowed me to unlock the bootloader. They do allow for any carrier SIM to be used in it.
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This is correct. Verizon is a mofo. Doesn't make much sense. I mean, you paid for the device, you should be able to do what you want with it
ZeroKool76 said:
This is correct. Verizon is a mofo. Doesn't make much sense. I mean, you paid for the device, you should be able to do what you want with it
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This right here has been the case with Verizon going ALL the way back to the Verizon Galaxy Nexus. **** Verizon!
Yep, never buy the carrier modesl unless you have absolutely no other option. In the case of Tmo with OnePlus and similar phones you could get an unlock (both carrier and bootloader) after the device was paid off. You still have to deal with a little bloat and later updates along with lesser issues. AT&T will have this one and their policies are similar to Verizon so I wouldn't go that way unless you hate yourself. No idea on Sprint, that have nothing in my area so I haven't paid attention. The previous posters were 100 prevent though, buying unlocked is the way. Tmo if you must to get a deal but only after verifying the bootloader can be unlocked.
krabman said:
Yep, never buy the carrier modesl unless you have absolutely no other option. In the case of Tmo with OnePlus and similar phones you could get an unlock (both carrier and bootloader) after the device was paid off. You still have to deal with a little bloat and later updates along with lesser issues. AT&T will have this one and their policies are similar to Verizon so I wouldn't go that way unless you hate yourself. No idea on Sprint, that have nothing in my area so I haven't paid attention. The previous posters were 100 prevent though, buying unlocked is the way. Tmo if you must to get a deal but only after verifying the bootloader can be unlocked.
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I currently have a one plus 7pro from T-Mobile that is still financed. The bootloader was locked until you paid off your device and waited the mandatory 45 days. Some were able to talk to T-force and got their devices unlocked early whether they financed or not. I was one of the unlucky ones that could not negotiate with T-force to unlock my device. Luckily there was a nice person that worked for TMobile that was in the forums and was able to unlock my phone. We will see what happens when we get the devices and start working on them. I will be financing my phone with them again next Thursday.
I purchased the Unlocked model. I currently have Pixel 2XL Verizon (Bootloader Locked), not a huge issue. But there are times where I wish I had a rooted phone. Not making that mistake again.
cronojay said:
I currently have a one plus 7pro from T-Mobile that is still financed. The bootloader was locked until you paid off your device and waited the mandatory 45 days. Some were able to talk to T-force and got their devices unlocked early whether they financed or not. I was one of the unlucky ones that could not negotiate with T-force to unlock my device. Luckily there was a nice person that worked for TMobile that was in the forums and was able to unlock my phone. We will see what happens when we get the devices and start working on them. I will be financing my phone with them again next Thursday.
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Did you try calling in multiple times? That often works although some people can't seem to catch a break on it. I've been on a number of OP devices and I'm familiar with what you're talking about; Saw it most recently on the 6T but it goes back further. I had them unlock a SGS6 the day I bought it, I paid cash but still the word was it couldn't be done without a dwell period, I remember it being 30 days at that time but maybe it was 45, been a while. In any event the very next year was the one were it turned out Tmo couldn't unlock your bootloader, came from Samsung they said. I remember there being an exploit coming out for that but I had already given away my S7 and moved on to the next thing before they figured that out. Not much over a year later Samsung started the BS with bootloaders on their international unlocked phones and I didn't keep the Note 8 long either. IMO if root is a must it's a good idea to let someone else be the guinea pig and profit from that information unless you've got enough ching to walk away without worrying about it.
I'm pretty sure this phone will also be exactly as you describe on Tmo and I agree with you BTW, just saying the smart money if a man needs to be careful is to wait for the first phones to meet their owners a few of who will unlock and root or attempt to do it. Or as I said in my first post, buy unlocked direct from Goog or Fi if possible.
There is not likely to be any bootloader unlock for the P4 and P4XL for carrier versions unless an exploit is found (which doesn't seem likely anymore). Google does not provide carriers an interface to change the device type, nor do they provide that interface to their own customer service and support teams. It's not a matter of hounding customer service or posting on the right forum because they can't help you. It's an obligation that Google has to meet if they want to keep their big carrier contracts in the United States.
The only unlocking requirement for carrier specific versions is having the ability to SIM unlock the device for portability between networks. Most carriers will do this upon request if you have international travel plans or have completed a certain percentage of your device financing.
navalynt said:
There is not likely to be any bootloader unlock for the P4 and P4XL for carrier versions unless an exploit is found (which doesn't seem likely anymore). Google does not provide carriers an interface to change the device type, nor do they provide that interface to their own customer service and support teams. It's not a matter of hounding customer service or posting on the right forum because they can't help you. It's an obligation that Google has to meet if they want to keep their big carrier contracts in the United States.
The only unlocking requirement for carrier specific versions is having the ability to SIM unlock the device for portability between networks. Most carriers will do this upon request if you have international travel plans or have completed a certain percentage of your device financing.
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So, the devices are shipped to the carriers already locked? Interesting. for some reason I always thought it was the individual carriers that lock them down and then would unlock it when you fully paid off the device. So you're saying, even if you fully pay off the device, you will never be able to unlock a carrier pixel 4/XL? Wow, that's a bummer.
ZeroKool76 said:
So, the devices are shipped to the carriers already locked? Interesting. for some reason I always thought it was the individual carriers that lock them down and then would unlock it when you fully paid off the device. So you're saying, even if you fully pay off the device, you will never be able to unlock a carrier pixel 4/XL? Wow, that's a bummer.
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Correct. Enthusiasts have a channel to bootloader unlock, which is buying directly from Google where Google provides it's own support.
Carriers are only looking to sell you a device that's stable to work on their own networks. What do the carriers have to gain at all from controlling the bootloader unlock? They have nothing to gain from it except a support migraine.
navalynt said:
Correct. Enthusiasts have a channel to bootloader unlock, which is buying directly from Google where Google provides it's own support.
Carriers are only looking to sell you a device that's stable to work on their own networks. What do the carriers have to gain at all from controlling the bootloader unlock? They have nothing to gain from it except a support migraine.
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Yeah, that makes sense when you put it that way. Just took me by surprise when OP and it's carrier phones pretty much allow you to do whatever you want to the device, once it's paid off. Still can't stand OP, but I have to admit, that's a check mark in their corner
Keep in mind Google does not require it like Samsung does so it's left up to the carrier. Tmo has been unlocking similar devices and there is little reason to think it wont happen here. In the opposing camp you have Verizon which demands a locked bootloader and few exploits have been found to circumvent it on recent devices. Meanwhile something to consider is that even the unlocked straight from google device is not really unlocked in the way some people think: Before you can unlock the bootloader it absolutely must phone home. Don't give the phone that connection and you cannot unlock it. Samsung does the same thing. We are not in control of our devices anymore, they can pull the plug on unlocking any time they want simply by denying it via that same connection even if you have already unlocked it. Samsung did this a few years ago in just that way and to this date no one has found a way around it that doesn't cause real pain with the wait a week and all that BS.
I called several times and got on with T-force sever times and no luck. I got lucky when the post I described about unlocking and got mine done. I always device finance because of the 0% apr and jump on demand so all I need to is bring my phone, get my new phone and profit.
ZeroKool76 said:
Pretty sure most carrier devices are going to remain locked until you pay it off. At least, that's the logical rationale. I can't imagine they want people unlocking devices they haven't paid for. As far as root, that should be a simple process of just patching the boot.img
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"simple process" "just patch the boot img" come on man.. Ask the people that own a pixel 3 from Verizon. Please don't spread wrong info
bigmatt503 said:
"simple process" "just patch the boot img" come on man.. Ask the people that own a pixel 3 from Verizon. Please don't spread wrong info
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You mean, ask the people who were dumb enough to buy a locked down device? I'll pass. People that have purchased Verizon's in the past, as you have stated, would obviously know this doesn't apply to them. I was more referring to, since we don't have recovery yet, you would have to patch the boot img manually.
Honestly, I ALMOST got me and my wife's from Verizon (she definitely jumped on the pixel bandwagon). They have a buy one, get one free. Sooo, I kept thinking about root, but ultimately decided I'd rather save $900. Evidently, there's some caveats. One, the get one is for a new line. No biggie, I'll just cancel the one number and add a new one (her phone is paid off, I don't think there's a termination fee after two years). Two, you have to sign up for an unlimited plan. That piece completely wiped the price difference and then some for me. Sooo, I smiled a bit and bought them unlocked from Google. The only reason I would buy directly is for a huge price savings.
Another thing I thought of too, there is an early upgrade fee with V if I were to decide to upgrade to the 5xl next year. So, that's another caveat. I'm glad I just went with unlocked. Hoping it doesn't take long to root.
This time around I placed a pre-order with Google Fi.
All their Pixels are both SIM & Bootloader Unlocked even on
financing, same as Google Store.