Google Pixel Bootloader: How To Unlock It

With the guide provided here, you will easily be able to unlock the bootloader of various Google Pixel devices. Using a single line of fastboot command, you can unlock the bootloader of any Pixel device (regardless of the model number or the year it was released). Google Pixel devices are among the most sought-after Android devices. The Pixel 1 launched in 2016 succeeded the Nexus series and created quite a buzz.

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After that, there was no turning back. As of right now, the Pixel 3 series has dominated markets around the world. Whenever this device is released, high expectations are always attached to it. There’s no denying that Silicon Valley Giants won’t disappoint the masses. In addition to its hardware performance, its software is equally impressive. Being a Google product, it is always among the first devices to receive Android updates.

Nevertheless, this device is well known for its excellent camera quality. A Google Camera Port can now be found on almost all other devices, which explains well and truly what is going on. We’ll skip the background and get to the meat of the matter, shall we? You can unlock the bootloader of Google Pixel devices by following the detailed guide below.

What is a Bootloader?

Before we dive into the process of unlocking the bootloader, it’s important to understand what a bootloader is. A bootloader is a program that loads the operating system (OS) of a device. It’s the first thing that runs when a device is turned on, and it’s responsible for initializing the hardware and starting the OS.

Why Unlock the Bootloader?

You can install custom ROMs on your Google Pixel device after unlocking its bootloader, root it, and perform other advanced customizations that aren’t possible when the device’s bootloader is locked. Additionally, custom recoveries can be flashed, which can be used to back up your device, update software, and so on.

How to Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel Devices

We have divided the instructions below into separate sections to make them easier to understand. It is important that you follow the sequence exactly as it is described. As a result of performing the below steps, AMS and its members will not be held liable if a thermonuclear war occurs, your alarm doesn’t wake you up, or if anything happens to your device and data.

STEP 1: Take a Backup

Make sure you have a backup of all the data on your device. Due to the fact that all data will be wiped away, this is necessary.

STEP 2: Install Android SDK

Install Android SDK and Platform Tools

The first thing you need to do is install the Android SDK Platform Tools on your PC. ADB and Fastboot are provided by Google and are the only ones recommended for users. Therefore, you should download the file and then extract it to a convenient location on your computer. Upon doing so, you will receive the platform tools folder, which will be used throughout this guide.

STEP 3: Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking on Google Pixel Devices

The next step is to enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking on your device. Your device will become recognizable by the PC in ADB mode if you use the former. As a result, your device will boot into Fastboot Mode. The bootloader unlocking process requires OEM Unlocking on the other hand.

USB Debugging

Activate USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking by going to Settings > About Phone > Tapping on Build Number 7 times > Back to Settings > System > Advanced > Developer Options > Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking.

STEP 4: Boot Google Pixel Devices to Fastboot Mode

  • Your device needs to be connected to your PC via a USB cable now. The USB Debugging feature must be enabled.

  • Go to the platform tools folder, type CMD in the address bar, and hit Enter. You will now be able to launch the Command Prompt.

Identifying your Device in ADB or Fastboot Mode

  • You need to type the following command in the CMD window to get into Fastboot mode.
adb reboot bootloader

unlock bootloader google pixel devices

  • Enter the below command to verify the Fastboot connection, and you will receive the device ID as shown in the image.
    fastboot devices
  • Proceed with the steps below to unlock the bootloader on your Google Pixel. Continue reading.

STEP 5: Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel Devices

  • The last step is to unlock your Google Pixel’s bootloader with the command below:
    fastboot flashing unlock

    fastboot flashing unlock

  • It is possible that you will receive a confirmation message on your Pixel device at this point in time. Select Unlock the Bootloader with the Volume keys, and confirm your selection with the Power key.

confirmation message on your Pixel device

  • Your device will now reboot to Fastboot Mode, but this time, the Device State will be Unlocked. This verifies that the process stands successfully completed.
    reboot to Fastboot Mode
  • If your device doesn’t restart automatically, you can do so manually. You can do this either by pressing the Power key once or by using the following fastboot command:
    fastboot reboot

Conclusion

When you unlock the bootloader on your Google Pixel device, you gain more control over it and can customize it to your liking. It is important, however, to back up all of your data before starting the process and to follow the steps carefully in order to avoid any problems. With the help of this guide, you can unlock the bootloader on your Google Pixel device and begin exploring all of the advanced customization options.

All that’s left to say about how to unlock the bootloader on a Google Pixel device. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have in the comments section below.

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