Question Is Unlocked the same as Unlocked Bootloader? - Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

Okay, I recognize this is a stupid question, but because I don't see an answer I'll go ahead and look stupid by asking it. I have the SM-G998U1 (Snapdragon US) and I purchased an "Unlocked" version, which I know means it's not tied to a specific carrier. However, as others have said, there is no "OEM Unlocking" option available in the US devices, I presume that the unlocked bootloader is different than "unlocked" in terms of the carrier, right?
I'd like to root my phone and be able to switch ROMs, but I need to be able to enable "OEM Unlocking" before that's possible, right?

correct.
an unlocked bootloader will allow root/rom.
that is completely different from carrier unlocking, which just ties the device to a specific carrier and has nothing to do with root/rom.

uicnren said:
correct.
an unlocked bootloader will allow root/rom.
that is completely different from carrier unlocking, which just ties the device to a specific carrier and has nothing to do with root/rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I appreciate the clarification.

Given the issues the new Samsung devices are having even if you can root give at least a few months under factory warranty to make sure it's ok... or risk picking up the full repair tab.

uicnren said:
correct.
an unlocked bootloader will allow root/rom.
that is completely different from carrier unlocking, which just ties the device to a specific carrier and has nothing to do with root/rom.
uicnren said:
correct.
an unlocked bootloader will allow root/rom.
that is completely different from carrier unlocking, which just ties the device to a specific carrier and has nothing to do with root/rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, another question about the missing OEM. How can I get into bootloader mode if OEM is missing...? Is it locked out...? Every time I click "enter" for Bootloader it simply reboots back to normal mode and I do have my S21 plugged into my laptop. What am I missing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Related

OEM Unlocking Greyed Out?

Perhaps I am just misremembering, but on NBD90Z, if your bootloader is already unlocked, should the developer option for OEM Unlocking be available or greyed out? Mine is greyed out (Pic attached) and only becomes available if I flash a 6.x ROM.
Tinfoil hat backgrounder....
I recently wanted to verify my carrier unlocked status on my Nexus 6. I popped in the Verizon SIM from my recently purchased Pixel, which worked fine. I'm now worried that however Verizon is able to force OEM lock onto the Pixel has now been set on my N6 and if I relock I will be unable to unlock.
@mattfrazer,
Yes the option is grayed out on 7.0 if your bootloader is already unlocked. I'm on Fi, my bootloader is unlocked, and it's grayed out on my N6.
No carrier to my knowledge can force lock a bootloader. Once you fastboot oem unlock it, it will stay that way till you pass the fastboot oem lock command.
cam30era said:
@mattfrazer,
Yes the option is grayed out on 7.0 if your bootloader is already unlocked. I'm on Fi, my bootloader is unlocked, and it's grayed out on my N6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank You Sir, I appreciate the confirmation.
SynisterWolf said:
No carrier to my knowledge can force lock a bootloader. Once you fastboot oem unlock it, it will stay that way till you pass the fastboot oem lock command.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand that. My worry was not that lock would be force enabled, but that the option would not "ungrey" if I were to choose to lock the bootloader on my N6 again. Either I hadn't paid close enough attention post 7.0 upgrade, or hadn't gone through the 2 step unlock process since running 6.x to notice the option greys out if your bootloader is unlocked on 7.0. I must not be the only one as the description under the option is changed in 7.1 to say "Bootloader is already unlocked" instead of "Allow the bootloader to be unlocked"
Thanks again to you both.
there are 2 possibilities . 1 : your bootloader is already unlocked(check it by going to fastboot) 2: turn on USB debugging ON
im sure your bootloader is already unlocked
cheers
mattfrazer said:
Thank You Sir, I appreciate the confirmation.
I understand that. My worry was not that lock would be force enabled, but that the option would not "ungrey" if I were to choose to lock the bootloader on my N6 again. Either I hadn't paid close enough attention post 7.0 upgrade, or hadn't gone through the 2 step unlock process since running 6.x to notice the option greys out if your bootloader is unlocked on 7.0. I must not be the only one as the description under the option is changed in 7.1 to say "Bootloader is already unlocked" instead of "Allow the bootloader to be unlocked"
Thanks again to you both.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats a good question. I have been away from VZW for a while now but did they have an N6 branded to them? if so, did they removed bootloader unlock like they do with HTC phones branded to them? if you did buy one from google or a non branded N6 carriers have zero control over it so in theory you can lock and unlock the bootloader at any time regardless of the carrier you are using for cell service. I personally never had to go back so i never noticed the greyed out option.
But thanks for pointing this out.
It is gray if you are already unlocked so you dont hit that before you fastboot lock if you are relocking. Doing the slider first can be bad. It was a changed in N.
SynisterWolf said:
Thats a good question. I have been away from VZW for a while now but did they have an N6 branded to them? if so, did they removed bootloader unlock like they do with HTC phones branded to them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, there wasn't a VZW branded N6. In the US, only AT&T had a branded N6, and FWIW it was carrier locked to AT&T. Usual rigmarole to get it SIM unlocked. This version had an unlockable bootloader, just like the Google Play Store version.
TonikJDK said:
It is gray if you are already unlocked so you dont hit that before you fastboot lock if you are relocking. Doing the slider first can be bad. It was a changed in N.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So we can simply lock it again, without having to tick it or anything?
cam30era said:
No, there wasn't a VZW branded N6. .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes there was. Vzw was the last of the major carriers to pick it up though.
Larzzzz82 said:
Yes there was. Vzw was the last of the major carriers to pick it up though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for setting the record straight.

Oem unlocking?

I have the Verizon variant of the pixel 5 and, unfortunately, the oem unlock option in the dev options is greyed out. The phone is completely paid for and what not. Is there any way to get around this? Such as flashing stock firmware of an unlocked device?
Deitybrother13 said:
I have the Verizon variant of the pixel 5 and, unfortunately, the oem unlock option in the dev options is greyed out. The phone is completely paid for and what not. Is there any way to get around this? Such as flashing stock firmware of an unlocked device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, sorry.
Consider selling it on Swappa and then buy the unlocked variant.

Need Help with bootloader unlock

I bought a new Pixel 4 xl when I tried to set it up, it gave me a notification " Your device is managed by your admin". I tried to enable OEM unlock but it was grayed out. I updated it to Android 12 beta I don't see the notification anymore but still can't enable OEM unlock nor even unlock the bootloader.
I want to unlock the bootloader is there any way to do it?
The phone is carrier unlocked it accepts every SIM card on both Physical and esim.
Thanks in advance.
Daniyal48 said:
I bought a new Pixel 4 xl when I tried to set it up, it gave me a notification " Your device is managed by your admin". I tried to enable OEM unlock but it was grayed out. I updated it to Android 12 beta I don't see the notification anymore but still can't enable OEM unlock nor even unlock the bootloader.
I want to unlock the bootloader is there any way to do it?
The phone is carrier unlocked it accepts every SIM card on both Physical and esim.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
admin?
Can you check the device admins in settings?
Daniyal48 said:
I bought a new Pixel 4 xl when I tried to set it up, it gave me a notification " Your device is managed by your admin". I tried to enable OEM unlock but it was grayed out. I updated it to Android 12 beta I don't see the notification anymore but still can't enable OEM unlock nor even unlock the bootloader.
I want to unlock the bootloader is there any way to do it?
The phone is carrier unlocked it accepts every SIM card on both Physical and esim.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you sure it's not an unlocked Verizon or T-Mo 4XL? They can be carrier unlocked but still be bootloader locked and I'm not sure if there's any way to tell by the model nbumber or IMEI.
FoneWatcher said:
Are you sure it's not an unlocked Verizon or T-Mo 4XL? They can be carrier unlocked but still be bootloader locked and I'm not sure if there's any way to tell by the model nbumber or IMEI.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm there is the IMEI will have VXN on it or the serial number will probably show it and such has it
It probably lies in the about phone settings
Kenora_I said:
Hmm there is the IMEI will have VXN on it or the serial number will probably show it and such has it
It probably lies in the about phone settings
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just as an aside, I got my 4 XL from T-Mo when they had a sale and couldn't get the bootloader unlocked, but the Soli chip went bad under warranty, so when I sent it back to Google, they sent me an unlocked (both carrier and bootloader unlocked) replacement.
FoneWatcher said:
Just as an aside, I got my 4 XL from T-Mo when they had a sale and couldn't get the bootloader unlocked, but the Soli chip went bad under warranty, so when I sent it back to Google, they sent me an unlocked (both carrier and bootloader unlocked) replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So oem unlock is disabled?
Have you tried resetting the phone?
No, I started with a T-Mo oem locked, but Google sent me back an oem unlocked replacement.
My Soli chip went bad after just a month or two.
FoneWatcher said:
No, I started with a T-Mo oem locked, but Google sent me back an oem unlocked replacement.
My Soli chip went bad after just a month or two.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try resetting the phone then check that setting
Could be that google had some type of admin on that is preventing OEM unlocking
Kenora_I said:
admin?
Can you check the device admins in settings?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No..I don't see anything like that.
Daniyal48 said:
I bought a new Pixel 4 xl when I tried to set it up, it gave me a notification " Your device is managed by your admin". I tried to enable OEM unlock but it was grayed out. I updated it to Android 12 beta I don't see the notification anymore but still can't enable OEM unlock nor even unlock the bootloader.
I want to unlock the bootloader is there any way to do it?
The phone is carrier unlocked it accepts every SIM card on both Physical and esim.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because you are BL locked the only two things you can try are a factory reset from recovery, and flashing a full OTA from recovery via adb. If that doesn't work, I'd be trying to get my money back.
Since your IMEI is permanently stored in a school or company database, the admin error will likely return when the device phones home (at first boot when wi-fi is enabled) and from the sounds of it, a policy has been set to prevent bootloader unlocking. That phone may be new to you but it is likely black market.
Now I understand the problem. I have tried the reset option and full OTA update in Android 12 the error isn't here anymore but OEM unlocking can't be enabled.
Daniyal48 said:
Now I understand the problem. I have tried the reset option and full OTA update in Android 12 the error isn't here anymore but OEM unlocking can't be enabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. Looks like you were ripped off and will never see the full benefits of having an unlocked phone. Since it was "new" I would be getting my money back.
Oh thank God I came to know this before I buy the phone for myself. The problem is actually happening in my Uncle's phone.
Might have the Verizon variation

Question Missing OEM Unlock on Cellular VZW S8+ (SM-X808U)

Hey guys,
I've searched the forum but nobody seems to have reported the issue I'm experiencing. The way the posts are worded, unlocking the Tab S8+ is a given. I know the US S22 has no OEM Unlocking officially supported. I've followed all the workarounds to get the option to appear to no avail.
My only theory is that VZW hasn't yet unlocked my S8+ (if it was ever locked to begin with, nevertheless I've owned it less than 60 days). Can anybody confirm if this model can be bootloader unlocked by conventional means either prior or after carrier unlock?
Hi! I'm going to try to find the other user's post who enlightened me in this section, but I might have trouble finding it.
Effectively, no U.S. carrier's version of previous and current Samsung Galaxy Tabs can have the bootloader unlocked - at least that's what I remember them telling me. You have to buy the Wi-Fi only version to be able to unlock the bootloader.
Now - SIM unlock, I know nothing about on the Tabs. Normally no matter what U.S. carrier, that I'm aware of, once you pay off your device (if financed), they'll SIM unlock the device, and although you can relate the two things (SIM and bootloader unlocking), they are completely separate and it's only certain U.S. phones (not Samsung phones or tablets) that getting SIM unlock enables you to also do OEM unlocking, and therefore be able to unlock the bootloader.
Verizon never allows the bootloader to be unlocked on any kind of device, no matter what, and all U.S. Samsung carrier devices - both phones and tablets, are never able to get their bootloader unlocked. I'm not including the rare exception that there's a hack to be able to get root - but most hacks circumvent the locked bootloader - they don't often actually allow the bootloader to be unlocked, and this sort of thing is rarer and rarer anymore.
Edit: I believe this is the post, by @googlephoneFKLenAsh.
Thank you for your thorough explanation. I was expecting the Tab to be the same situation as with the U.S. Galaxy phones, I just wasn't able to find confirmation of that.
I know Verizon is hostile to bootloader unlocking (case in point Pixel). So it was either gonna be my carrier and if not that my region.
Tablets do on rare occasion are exceptions (iirc ATT doesn't carrier lock tablets) so barring an explanation elsewhere I figured I'd post and have that question answered for myself and those concerned.
I don't understand the motivation behind it given that unlocking is already a process that can't be exploited by malware/spyware and carries a myriad of drawbacks/risks.
GlitterFartzz said:
... given that unlocking is already a process that can't be exploited by malware/spyware and carries a myriad of drawbacks/risks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome!
I'm not sure I understand what you're saying here, or I'm not sure if you meant to say it differently.
An unlocked (or unlockable) bootloader can definitely be exploited without our awareness.
I agree that I don't understand the motivation - at least in contrast to AT&T and T-Mobile which apparently do allow bootloaders to be unlocked once their phones are paid for and SIM unlocked. I also don't know why or if AT&T and T-Mobile would not allow Samsung tablets to be bootloader-unlocked while allowing other brands.
Overall I think the motivation is the prevention of potentially more problems that users will have and also potentially brick their device and then they wind up with an unhappy customer because the carrier won't consider the device under warranty since it had been fiddled with in a way they're not willing to support (understandably).
Additionally, root malware would potentially be using their mobile network for nefarious purposes.
GlitterFartzz said:
Hey guys,
I've searched the forum but nobody seems to have reported the issue I'm experiencing. The way the posts are worded, unlocking the Tab S8+ is a given. I know the US S22 has no OEM Unlocking officially supported. I've followed all the workarounds to get the option to appear to no avail.
My only theory is that VZW hasn't yet unlocked my S8+ (if it was ever locked to begin with, nevertheless I've owned it less than 60 days). Can anybody confirm if this model can be bootloader unlocked by conventional means either prior or after carrier unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same s8+ 5G model and I'm unable to get to the unlock option from download mode. I have however managed to turn on the OEM unlock from android. It is very fiddly to get to the OEM unlock option, and it will disappear afterward. The method I used is to quickly go to the developer's options before the tablet fully started after a reboot. It will let you toggle the OEM unlock.
I'm waiting if someone found a way to get the bootloader unlock from download mode. Obviously I have tried all other methods ( e.g> cable + up+down volume )
It's actually not possible to unlock via download mode. Download mode is only used for Odin flashing and the like.
You have to get to the bootloader which I believe is power and vol up WITHOUT using the cable afaik.
If by some catastrophic reason you can't get into the bootloader after that, you can boot the device, enable USB debugging, plug into pc, and run adb reboot bootloader or adb reboot recovery.
killerzac said:
I have the same s8+ 5G model and I'm unable to get to the unlock option from download mode. I have however managed to turn on the OEM unlock from android. It is very fiddly to get to the OEM unlock option, and it will disappear afterward. The method I used is to quickly go to the developer's options before the tablet fully started after a reboot. It will let you toggle the OEM unlock.
I'm waiting if someone found a way to get the bootloader unlock from download mode. Obviously I have tried all other methods ( e.g> cable + up+down volume )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you been able to get the OEM unlocking switch to reappear after you've already toggled it?
If so, is it still on when it reappears? If it is then there's a high likelihood the device can then be unlocked.
GlitterFartzz said:
Have you been able to get the OEM unlocking switch to reappear after you've already toggled it?
If so, is it still on when it reappears? If it is then there's a high likelihood the device can then be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, it remains as OEM unlocked. I even tried to see if this could be false positive by flipping OEM unlock back and forth. It has shown the setting is persistence, if you set OEM unlock it will stay unlock. If you set it back to OEM lock. It stays as OEM lock.
GlitterFartzz said:
It's actually not possible to unlock via download mode. Download mode is only used for Odin flashing and the like.
You have to get to the bootloader which I believe is power and vol up WITHOUT using the cable afaik.
If by some catastrophic reason you can't get into the bootloader after that, you can boot the device, enable USB debugging, plug into pc, and run adb reboot bootloader or adb reboot recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nope, doesn't work. I tried ADB reboot bootloader or use the recovery to boot to bootloader, still no joy. I just can't get to the bootloader option which allows me to see the "Unlock bootloader options"
killerzac said:
nope, doesn't work. I tried ADB reboot bootloader or use the recovery to boot to bootloader, still no joy. I just can't get to the bootloader option which allows me to see the "Unlock bootloader options"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are supposed to boot into bootloader mode and then use the fastboot tool to trigger the unlock.
Either fastboot flashing unlock or fastboot oem unlocking. Something like that.
GlitterFartzz said:
You are supposed to boot into bootloader mode and then use the fastboot tool to trigger the unlock.
Either fastboot flashing unlock or fastboot oem unlocking. Something like that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, that is not working ( bootloader mode - doesn't let you choose ). Fastboot doesn't work with samsung, they deliberately change their code, try it yourself.
GlitterFartzz said:
You are supposed to boot into bootloader mode and then use the fastboot tool to trigger the unlock.
Either fastboot flashing unlock or fastboot oem unlocking. Something like that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These are the necessary steps on this tablet to unlock the bootloader - it doesn't involve Fastboot from the Platform Tools. I am aware that on standard Android/AOSP that it does involve Fastboot since for my phones I choose Google Pixel devices.
skrowl said:
Step 1 - Prepare your Tablet (only necessary for first install on unrooted device)​
While Frija is downloading the firmware, prepare your device by doing the following:
Settings > About Tablet > Software Information > Click Build Number 7 times quickly
Developer Options (just below About Tablet on the left column)
Turn on USB Debugging
Turn on OEM unlocking
NOTE: If the OEM Unlocking option doesn't appear, connect the device to the internet, wait a few minutes, then try again
Power tablet completely off (Hold volume down + power button if you haven't changed the Bixby settings)
While holding volume up and volume down, plug the tablet into your PC via USB
Let go of volume keys as soon as the blue-green screen shows up
Press and hold volume up for 5 seconds, the screen will change to a confirmation prompt
Press volume up again to confirm, the tablet will reboot
Unplug your tablet from USB
Go through initial setup. Don't bother copying files or installing anything.
Skip signing in to your Google account and Samsung account. You won't be using them for this step.
Settings > About Tablet > Software Information > Click Build Number 7 times quickly
Developer Options (just below About Tablet on the left column)
Turn on USB Debugging
Reboot the tablet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
roirraW edor ehT said:
These are the necessary steps on this tablet to unlock the bootloader - it doesn't involve Fastboot from the Platform Tools. I am aware that on standard Android/AOSP that it does involve Fastboot since for my phones I choose Google Pixel devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah I wasn't aware that some devices do not require fastboot to finalize unlock and instead immediately unlock when toggling OEM Unlocking.
Is it possible to confirm the unlock by getting the bootloader vars using fastboot however?
Alternately, what's the easiest way to confirm the bootloader is unlocked?
killerzac said:
yes, that is not working ( bootloader mode - doesn't let you choose ). Fastboot doesn't work with samsung, they deliberately change their code, try it yourself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
According to this post, you should have your bootloader unlocked now. Could you try following the instructions listed and report back?
Could you also explain in more detail how you can get the OEM unlocking option to appear?
I seem to be having no luck. You do own a US model, correct?
roirraW edor ehT said:
These are the necessary steps on this tablet to unlock the bootloader - it doesn't involve Fastboot from the Platform Tools. I am aware that on standard Android/AOSP that it does involve Fastboot since for my phones I choose Google Pixel devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GlitterFartzz said:
Ah I wasn't aware that some devices do not require fastboot to finalize unlock and instead immediately unlock when toggling OEM Unlocking.
Is it possible to confirm the unlock by getting the bootloader vars using fastboot however?
Alternately, what's the easiest way to confirm the bootloader is unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, although the instructions don't make it clear without the context of seeing what's on the screen, steps 5 through 7 are what unlock the bootloader. OEM Unlocking still only (normally) enables unlocking the bootloader:
5. While holding volume up and volume down, plug the tablet into your PC via USB
Let go of volume keys as soon as the blue-green screen shows up
6. Press and hold volume up for 5 seconds, the screen will change to a confirmation prompt
7. Press volume up again to confirm, the tablet will reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also, just as on the Google Pixel and many or all other devices, the easiest way to see that your bootloader is unlocked is the (IMHO) big honking stupid advertisement when you reboot or turn on your device that the bootloader is unlocked and the (paraphrasing) "hey thieves, if you just stole this device, you're in luck because you can hack into someone's account easier since this device's bootloader is unlocked" that stays on the screen seemingly forever.
I know that if they're actually technically savvy they'd be able to find that out anyway, but all this forced pre-boot screen does is punish those who unlock their bootloader. End Rant.
Ah I see what you mean, so It's been stated that US devices either resist BL unlocks e entirely or require alternative solutions.
That being said, has there been reports of UI bugs causing the option to appear on USA models under certain circumstances?
roirraW edor ehT said:
Actually, although the instructions don't make it clear without the context of seeing what's on the screen, steps 5 through 7 are what unlock the bootloader. OEM Unlocking still only (normally) enables unlocking the bootloader:
Also, just as on the Google Pixel and many or all other devices, the easiest way to see that your bootloader is unlocked is the (IMHO) big honking stupid advertisement when you reboot or turn on your device that the bootloader is unlocked and the (paraphrasing) "hey thieves, if you just stole this device, you're in luck because you can hack into someone's account easier since this device's bootloader is unlocked" that stays on the screen seemingly forever.
I know that if they're actually technically savvy they'd be able to find that out anyway, but all this forced pre-boot screen does is punish those who unlock their bootloader. End Rant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
GlitterFartzz said:
That being said, has there been reports of UI bugs causing the option to appear on USA models under certain circumstances?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. I've read every post in this section starting from when I pre-ordered mine (February?), and the only post I've seen about being able to enable OEM Unlocking was from @killerzac.
Too bad that doesn't easily lead to actually being able to unlock, even if the OEM Unlocking aspect was widely reproducible.
killerzac said:
yes, that is not working ( bootloader mode - doesn't let you choose ). Fastboot doesn't work with samsung, they deliberately change their code, try it yourself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you found a solution?
I'm in such a weird place. I'm in the UK my first Tab S8 Ultra unlocked originally but after relocking the bootloader I can't get the OEM Unlock to reappear. I needed an unlocked tablet so I bought another one and this one has never had the OEM Unlock option. Waited many sets of 7 days trying different Samsung accounts and Google accounts. I do notice like you that if you get to dev options quickly after boot OEM Unlock is there but it definitely hasn't loaded properly at this point and changing it does nothing. Tablet never gives the bootloader unlock option when you go through the process.
The only thing ive noticed is on both devices the KG Status is Active (Viewed in Download Mode). My S22 which has the OEM Unlock option shows it as inactive. Samsung have told me that I can send the tablet to them and they will look at it but I can't be without it at the moment. Don't know if both my tablets are wrongly reporting that they are in finance and MDM is locking it potentially following my Samsung account to the new tablet I bought.
Really annoyed with Samsung now spent hours on web chats with them where they keep making you reset the tablet and won't escalte it.
Even more annoying they won't look at my first tablet because it did unlock initially so the warrenty is void now that it won't unlock they have said they will replace the mainboard for £800.
@Jono0907 That really sucks! I'm sorry to hear about all the trouble. I "swear" - customer service these days. Someday, companies will just stop even having the (mostly) nearly useless customer service that they do now, and they just won't have any at all.
Jono0907 said:
Have you found a solution?
I'm in such a weird place. I'm in the UK my first Tab S8 Ultra unlocked originally but after relocking the bootloader I can't get the OEM Unlock to reappear. I needed an unlocked tablet so I bought another one and this one has never had the OEM Unlock option. Waited many sets of 7 days trying different Samsung accounts and Google accounts. I do notice like you that if you get to dev options quickly after boot OEM Unlock is there but it definitely hasn't loaded properly at this point and changing it does nothing. Tablet never gives the bootloader unlock option when you go through the process.
The only thing ive noticed is on both devices the KG Status is Active (Viewed in Download Mode). My S22 which has the OEM Unlock option shows it as inactive. Samsung have told me that I can send the tablet to them and they will look at it but I can't be without it at the moment. Don't know if both my tablets are wrongly reporting that they are in finance and MDM is locking it potentially following my Samsung account to the new tablet I bought.
Really annoyed with Samsung now spent hours on web chats with them where they keep making you reset the tablet and won't escalte it.
Even more annoying they won't look at my first tablet because it did unlock initially so the warrenty is void now that it won't unlock they have said they will replace the mainboard for £800.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi Jono,
I haven't look at it since and I'm pretty sure your finding is very much same as mine, Quote "Table never gives the bootloader unlock option". I gave my s8+ to my 5 years old son as his toy now. Piece of garbage without ROOTing for me. I'm reverting back to using my tabS6. You might hapend to see me on the northen line with my TabS6, very rare scene.

Is it possible to change S20 FE G781B to G781U?

I was wondering if it is possible to flash G781U firmware on G781B since they have the same specs.
would love to hear what you think (or know).
Thanks
I'd keep the B model as it is as it can have it's bootloader unlocked. if you're taking that phone to the states someone would gladly buy it off you as is.
if you wanted updates after moving they could easily be manually downloaded and flashed. if you concerned about frequency bands then maybe there are ways to tackle that.
3mel said:
I'd keep the B model as it is as it can have it's bootloader unlocked. if you're taking that phone to the states someone would gladly buy it off you as is.
if you wanted updates after moving they could easily be manually downloaded and flashed. if you concerned about frequency bands then maybe there are ways to tackle that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply, I know its better to keep it that way but if I wanted to change it anyway, will it be possible or would I just brick the phone?
idaneli2 said:
Thanks for the reply, I know its better to keep it that way but if I wanted to change it anyway, will it be possible or would I just brick the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
not sure to be honest, I suspect that the existing bootloader would generate a fail error before or just after you started but I can't say for sure.
if it did fail after starting to flash you'd need B firmware on hand to make it useable again.
Trying the same but switching from 781W to 781B. Had no success so far. Odin is failing to flash. At least so far I did not brick the device. Any advice is welcome
igordashaar said:
Trying the same but switching from 781W to 781B. Had no success so far. Odin is failing to flash. At least so far I did not brick the device. Any advice is welcome
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, glad to see im not alone.
did you try to unlock the bootloader first?
idaneli2 said:
Hey, glad to see im not alone.
did you try to unlock the bootloader first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tried, but so far without success. I'm missing the "OEM unlocking" option that is stated in the manual. Trying now to update to latest firmware. Maybe this will enable the unlocking option.
hm... I just learned that there may be no OEM unlocking option on my snapdragon device. There really is a lot to consider... Somehow OEM unlocking does not work on snapdragon devices from north america. In latin america although this might work. I don't really get what the point of all this is. [some sauce]
edit: maybe it is possible to unlock it through fastboot, but so far i only get a command not found error when using ´´´fastboot oem unlock´´´
igordashaar said:
hm... I just learned that there may be no OEM unlocking option on my snapdragon device. There really is a lot to consider... Somehow OEM unlocking does not work on snapdragon devices from north america. In latin america although this might work. I don't really get what the point of all this is. [some sauce]
edit: maybe it is possible to unlock it through fastboot, but so far i only get a command not found error when using ´´´fastboot oem unlock´´´
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, from what I understand devices with U at the end of their model number are missing the OEM unlocking option. I think its stupid to only block the option to some of the world, I mean either block it completely or dont block it at all.
Maybe it is possible to change your model to W and then unlock it, I im not wrong you are supposed to be able to flash W firmware on your U device without unlocking the bootloader.
Just make sure you download firmware with the same binary number in the baseband (the fifth number from the right)
igordashaar said:
tried, but so far without success. I'm missing the "OEM unlocking" option that is stated in the manual. Trying now to update to latest firmware. Maybe this will enable the unlocking option.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if it was that easy everyone would be doing it... (if they couldn't unlock).
idaneli2 said:
Yeah, from what I understand devices with U at the end of their model number are missing the OEM unlocking option. I think its stupid to only block the option to some of the world, I mean either block it completely or dont block it at all.
Maybe it is possible to change your model to W and then unlock it, I im not wrong you are supposed to be able to flash W firmware on your U device without unlocking the bootloader.
Just make sure you download firmware with the same binary number in the baseband (the fifth number from the right)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlike the original poster I am trying to go from SM-G781W to SM-G781B (or anything else that has german language).
To my understanding Samsung does this as the carriers in North America are requiring it, but not sure why.

Categories

Resources