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Do you want to unlock full potential of your android device?
Yes, by unlocking full potential I mean unlocking bootloader, installing custom recovery, installing custom ROM and of course rooting and customizing your android phone.
So, if you want to do any of above, then you have to start your journey by enabling OEM unlocking of your android device.
Don’t know what is OEM unlocking? Why do you need to unlock OEM? Or How to enable OEM unlocking?
Don’t worry this post got all those questions covered.
So, without wasting precious time let’s start by getting familiar with the word “OEM Unlock”.
What is OEM Unlocking?
Android device has a lot of potential, but this potential is limited by the manufacturer of the device. They limit the functionality of the device using a software switch.
This is done in order to prevent users from accidentally messing up their device.
But what about people like you and me?
What if a user deliberately wants to push beyond these limitations?
This is where OEM Unlocking comes into play.
When you flip that “OEM Unlock” switch on, it sets the “unlock_ability” flag to: “1”. This flag remains persistent even if you reboot your device or perform a factory reset. This option will stay enabled unless you turn it off manually.
OEM Unlock option is usually hidden in android devices to prevent any accidental access.
Why would you need to enable OEM Unlocking?
Now, you know what Unlocking OEM means, let see why do we need to enable “OEM Unlock” and what are its drawbacks.
With enabling OEM unlock, the world of endless-possibilities opens –
- Unlocking bootloader
- Installing Custom Recovery
- Installing Custom Roms
- Rooting Device
- Installing Custom kernel
- Removing bloatware
- Installing famous mods like Viper4Android
- Modifying system files and Partitions
- And many other cool things. (I just barely scratched the surface here)
But there is a small price to pay, enabling “OEM unlock” is just turning on a switch, but you cannot do any serious customizations to your android device unless you unlock the bootloader (which is the next step after unlocking OEM).
Unlocking bootloader voids the warranty of your device.
Now, here’s an official disclaimer: If you follow this post and you unlock OEM and then unlock the bootloader (or try to unlock bootloader) and you mess up your device due to any reason. I or TechSphinx shall not be held responsible for your actions.
You’ll learn more about the difference between Unlocking OEM vs Unlocking Bootloader next in this post.
Enabling OEM Unlock vs Unlocking Bootloader
Often these words (Enabling OEM unlock and Unlocking Bootloader) are used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.
Before diving deep into this, let’s first understand the meaning of bootloader.
What is a bootloader in Android?
The operating system resides in storage and must be loaded into memory in order for you to use it.
When a device starts (boots up), it doesn’t have any programs in its memory which makes it incapable of accessing components like storage or I/O devices.
Here’s where bootloader comes into play.
Bootloader initializes the hardware and brings up the kernel (the core part of the operating system which communicates with the hardware).
Kernel then proceeds to initialize the operating system.
Since bootloader sits between software and hardware, it provides users with booting options such as entering into fastboot mode or recovery mode of the device.
If you want to know more about recovery and best custom recovery available for your android device, then head over to my best custom recovery post.
The Manufacturer of the device locked the bootloader to prevent any accidental damage to the device.
So, in order to make any changes to bootloader (for example: install a “custom recovery”), you have to unlock it and by enabling “OEM Unlock”, you are allowing the bootloader to be unlocked.
Now you know the meaning of OEM unlock and unlocking Bootloader, let’s put all pieces together.
Let’s see the entire process of rooting android device in order.
1. Unlocking OEM – Turning on a switch that allows us to run “fastboot” commands to unlock the bootloader. (Without enabling OEM unlock, you cannot use fastboot commands to unlock bootloader)
2. Unlocking Bootloader – That allows us to install custom recovery on android device.
3. Installing Custom Recovery (like TWRP) – Custom Recovery allows us to flash third-party images, which the default recovery doesn’t allow (for example Magisk, Viper4android etc.).
4. Flashing Magisk – Magisk is a suite of open source tools for customizing fundamental parts of Android which includes “root”.
Now you know, enabling OEM unlock isn’t same as unlocking the bootloader. They are two different steps which you have to perform sequentially.
If you want to see the entire process in action, then head over to my Root Moto G5s Plus and install custom recovery post where I have unlocked bootloader, installed TWRP and Rooted my moto G5s Plus device.
How to Enable OEM Unlock in Android Device?
Finally, it’s time for some practical stuff.
Let’s see how to enable OEM unlock on your android device.
Backup Important Stuff
Now, it’s a good idea to take a backup of your important files before proceeding. Enabling OEM unlock doesn’t erase any data, but if you proceed further to unlocking the bootloader (which you will), then everything on your device will be erased.
Enable Developer Options on Android
The option to enable OEM unlock is hidden under developer options of the device. To unhide it, follow the below steps:
1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Go to About Phone.
3. Click on Build Number 7 times.
After that, you will see an onscreen message stating that you are now a developer.
4. Go back to Settings.
5. Go to System.
6. There you will find the Developer Options which previously was not there.
Important Note: Different phones have different menus in Settings. Just remember to look for the build number options somewhere in your device and click on it 7 times. The same goes for the developer options too, you may find developer options in Settings but in android Nougat and newer versions, it’s under Settings > System.
Enable OEM Unlocking on Android
To enable OEM unlock
1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Tap on System.
3. Go to Developer Options.
4. Scroll down and find OEM unlock option.
5. Toggle on the switch next to it.
If you have a pin/password/pattern set, you will be asked to enter it.
6. Press enable, when it asks for confirmation.
Done! Now you can unlock the bootloader of the device.
FAQ on OEM Unlock
Now, let’s cover some of the most common questions asked related to OEM unlock.
Does Enabling OEM unlock voids warranty of device?
Toggling “OEM unlock” switch under developer options is a feature that is introduced in Android 5.0 and later. This is to prevent unauthorized access to unlock the bootloader. Enabling this option will not void the warranty of the device, but if you proceed further and unlock the bootloader of the device, then your device warranty may be void.
Please note: Different Manufacturers have a different policy for bootloader unlock. You can unlock the bootloader of the Oneplus device and your warranty will not be void, but if you unlock the bootloader of Motorola device, then your warranty will be void. Always check their policy for bootloader unlock. For most manufacturers, unlocking bootloader will void the warranty.
Is OEM unlocking same as rooting?
No, it’s not. Rooting is a process that grants you superuser access (aka root-access). With root access, you have complete control over your device, you can modify system files and configurations. It also allows hardware acceleration like CPU overclocking or custom RAM optimizations.
Enabling “OEM unlock” only allows you to unlock the bootloader. By unlocking bootloader you can install custom recovery and with a custom recovery, you can flash Magisk, which will grant you superuser access. You can say “Unlocking OEM” is the first step of rooting an android device.
Can you root an android device without unlocking bootloader?
The right answer to that question is YES. Unlocking bootloader and rooting a device are completely different things. However, the easiest way to root a device is by unlocking the bootloader. Rooting without unlocking bootloader is quite complicated, and in some devices, it may lead to unnecessary problems like crashing or corrupting the system.
Final Words on OEM Unlock
In some devices, you may not find the OEM unlock option. In that case, just proceed with unlocking bootloader.
Also in some devices, you may have to get unlock data from the manufacturer itself (like with Motorola devices).
I hope now you understand the entire concept of OEM unlocking. If you have any questions, then tell me in the comments.
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I want to find my device
You can find information on finding a lost device by following this link:
Find your Android Device
Cool!
OK I’ve read this which is a great read if I’d not read nearly the same exact concept which still has me asking if I unlock the OME Im also unlocking bootloader.. but, I have q device where I cannot get the OME unlock as an option in developers option.ok so, then proceed to to just unlock bootloader. But, if no OME then no option to unlocking bootloader . Please what am I missing. Thanks
Enabling the OEM unlocking option allows you to execute the fastboot commands that are required to unlock the bootloader. If the OEM unlock option is missing, then connect your phone to PC/Laptop, put it into fastboot mode and try to unlock the bootloader. If that didn’t work, then probably your device is carrier-locked.
You can also google or ask on XDA forums regarding the missing OEM unlock option on your device.
I have a question is it possible to root Huawei p30 lite new edition it’s running on Android 9 emui 9.1 and if so how can i
I don’t own Huawei P30 Lite. You should check on XDA forums for device-specific solutions.
Generally, to root an Android device, you have to unlock the bootloader, install custom recovery (ex. TWRP) and then flash Magisk to enable root access.
I can’t unlock the OEM it says allow the bootloader to be unlocked please help me my phone is Realme c11
Make sure you have enabled OEM Unlocking in the developer options.
Yes iam talking about the OEM unlocking I can’t enable it The option is closed and cannot be opened like I said It says “allow the bootloader to be unlocked” i don’t know how I suppose to open unlock it without the OEM
If the option is greyed out, then the bootloader may already be unlocked or the OEM unlocking is not available for your region. Checkout the following article by NerdsChalk for possible solutions:
OEM Unlock Greyed out or OEM unlock disabled problem
Hope this helps.
How can I unlock my Samsung when it shows locked by oem after restarting it’s settings
If your Samsung device is carrier-locked or hard-locked due to country restrictions, then it can’t be unlocked.
Thanks. I have read your article, hoping to get some clues about how to turn on the OEM unlocker ability. It is presently not listed in Developer area. I need to get it there so I can then tick it to turn it off, in order to load up Oreo 8.1 on my Asus Zenfone 3 Max ZC553KL X00DD. I don’t want to root my phone but just want to be able to upgrade from Marshmallow 6.0.1 to Oreo 8.1. I am being blocked from doing this, it seems.
It’s likely that Asus/Zenfone have hard-locked the OEM on your phone. Im not entirely sure how it works with the Zenfone series, but you may either be able to access the bootloader through ADB, as you’re likely still able to install official android versions. If that’s not the case, you could go look for solutions from the XDA website.
Which latest custom rom is suitable for Techno Phantom 6plus?
You can check my best custom ROMs post to find a suitable ROM for your device.
How do I by pass the Knox system on a Samsung Tab 8A 2019
I don’t own a Samsung Tab. But if there is a way to bypass Knox, then I am sure you will find it on XDA.
You can also try the steps mentioned in this Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6t5gMP4b7CY
The best way to pass the kNOX system IS TO MAKE SURE YOUR SAMSUNG GALAXY DEVICE IS NOT SNAPDRAGON CHIPED
Unfortunately, there is no way to bypass Knox tripping or Samsung’s eFuse blowing up, there’s also no real way to fix it once those things happen.
sir, i have google pixel 4xl and my phone is rooted and imei number is changed(patched) with other low price A30 phone. Can i bring back the original imei number of the phone.
Try the following:
1. If you know how you have changed the IMEI number previously to the A30 phone, then you can reverse the action to restore the original IMEI.
2. You can find the original IMEI number on the sim tray or on the box of the phone. Once you have the original IMEI, use the Xposed IMEI changer app (from the Xposed module) to change it.
3. Lastly, if you have an EFS backup prior to changing the original IMEI, you can restore that to bring back the original IMEI.
My sharp Aquos soft bank samaho 704 sh phone doesn’t show the mobile Data signal with out data but at first it was displaying,. I need to connect vpn it only display s when I load data and showing up address un available
I don’t own an Aquos phone, so I can’t help you with this. You should try asking on forums like XDA for device-specific solutions.
How can I change themes on my phone
Go to settings and search for “theme”. You’ll find all options related to themes there.
Hey, how to check if my device (infocus turbo 5 plus) supports OEM UNLOCKING, ENABLING BOOTLOADER, INSTALLING CUSTOM RECOVERY, FLASHING MAGISK, ROOTING, INSTALLING CUSTOM ROM, INSTALLING CUSTOM OS, INSTALLING CUSTOM KERNEL, and every other thing required to tweak the power to the peak?? Hoping for your answer soon!
Try to find a custom ROM for your device. If there is any custom ROM available for your device, then you can tweak almost everything.
You can search for XDA forums for all questions related to your device. If you don’t find anything there, that means there is no development going for your device.
I’ve checked in on xda but people there were talking abiut it in 2018 that it’s causing some difficulties to unlock the bootloader in my device but that was of 2018 and when i searched for it again on google i found some websites which gave step by step explanation on how can i unlock bootloader and install multiple tweaking features!…..i really want to power up my device but I’m also afraid what will i do if something goes wrong!please help me brother! Expecting a good news!😊
If there is any development going for your device, you’ll find it on XDA (which is a trusted source related to android development).
Most websites just copy/paste the steps that are used for any other model without actually testing it on that particular device. I suggest you not believe any untrusted sources on the internet.
If you are willing to take risks, then you can try those steps and find out what works and what doesn’t. Since I don’t own this device, if something goes wrong, then you’re on your own.
This may not be the good news you were expecting from me, but this is my honest opinion.
Can you please tell me how i can downgrade from android 11 to android 10 on nokia 2.3
Once upgraded, there is no way to downgrade to the old android version. You have to re-install (flash) the Android 10 ROM.
Could you please help me to enable VoLTE provision in my Sony Xperia XZ1?
Replied to the Email you sent.
Is there any idea for unlock Bootloader for vivo y20g. I used lot of methods but result is nothing… Any expert is here teach me buddy…
Wait for that message
“You can unlock”
🥰
Sorry, I don’t own a Vivo Y20G phone. You should check on XDA developers maybe someone can help you.
P.S. I edited your comment and removed your E-Mail ID from the comment.
Rahul……I have a sm-g97ou1 Running 11.0os( I tried to do all the suggested steps in instructional videos) no oem unlocking available & when trying to update software it says software is up-to-date can this vs of S10e OEM be unlocked & how ?
Samsung S10e OEM cannot be unlocked if you have a US device (Country restrictions). If your device is not from the US, then you can try the method mentioned in this XDA thread to fix the missing OEM unlock option.
https://www.xda-developers.com/fix-missing-oem-unlock-samsung-galaxy-s9-samsung-galaxy-s8-samsung-galaxy-note-8/
Samsung may have put some time restrictions like – You can only unlock your device after signing into Samsung account from your device and waiting for 7 days.
Usually, the OEM Unlock option is clearly present in the developer options, unless Samsung doesn’t want you to unlock the OEM.
Exactly what I was saying about Samsung galaxies. If it’s running Snapdragon chip forget about it. But if it has Samsung exynos chip you’re in luck buddy
In my google pixel 3a XL, when click on build version -it said you are now developer, but the OEM unlock option still can’t be unlocked. Do you have any other suggestions ?
If the option is greyed out, then your device may be carrier-locked.
Awesome discussion so about Google before I go on I want to explain that I am from America the phones over different Google wants you to experiment your phone along with OnePlus and Motorola. I’m going to speak on those three the reason why the oem unlock is greyed out it’s probably because it doesn’t have a lock open your bootloader and close it again. One plus I’m not too familiar with him but they’re on the same platform and wavelength keep it simple experiment. The last but not least my favorite Motorola. They also want you to experiment but do you make it sound complicated and it’s really not you have two options unlock the bootloader. Wanted to do it the normal way with a computer and ADB commands pro using a computer is Motorola has a program where if you mess anything up you can download Android and everything right back on your phone. Second auction is what I did I chose to use an Android device using ADB commands how to unlock another Motorola Android device super simple because you’re already running in the shell . Basically have to get a string of numbers get on the Motorola website send them to string of numbers did they email you the unlocking code or key code
Thank you so much the Vivo X60 PRO has some neat features but echo feedback has issues so understanding OEM unlocked through your dynamic tutorial skills is a blessing
In God We Trust
Psalm56
Jul’
I’m glad you found this tutorial useful. 🙂
THANK YOUU VERYY MUCH!!!!
You’re welcome. 🙂