Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel became a new concern for every user who want to do so. After all for Connecting the dots from Pixel to the vastness of your device, unlocking the bootloader of the Google Pixel is like having an open door to the entire control panel of your smartphone. If you need to root your handset, flash a custom ROM, or simply use recovery tools like TWRP, then the bootloader unlocking is the necessary first step. This guide, that can be considered a bible for any Pixel device, leads you step by step through the advantages, dangers, demands, and complete unlocking process.
🔓 Why Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel necessary ?
Unlocking the bootloader gives you an opportunity to deeply modify your phone and boost its performance via minor tweaks. Just below you will find some compelling reasons of the users who unlocked their Pixel devices:
✅ Advantages of Getting Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel
- Install Custom ROMs such as LineageOS, PixelDust, or other Android variants
- Using Magisk That Gives Root Access, You Can System-Level Customization, Modules, And Tools
- Flash Custom Recovery such as TWRP, which provides system backups and the possibility of flashing zip files
- Access Full System Control to remove unnecessary applications, continue modifying the kernel, and more
Nevertheless, it is a well-known fact that with great power always comes great responsibility. It is essential, however, to consider the possible danger before you decide to go ahead.
⚠️ Risks & Warnings Before You Begin
Bootloader unlocking definitely has its benefits, but also some drawbacks. Here are the points you should take into account:
❌ Potential Risks
- Data Wipe – Unlock wipes the phone clean. Backing up is a must.
- Warranty Voiding – UnpluggingWidevine DRM Downgrade – The streaming quality might go down from L1 (HD) to L3 (SD). Certain custom ROMs can solve this issue.
- Widevine DRM Downgrade – The streaming quality might go down from L1 (HD) to L3 (SD). Certain custom ROMs can solve this issue.
🧰 Pre-Requirements before Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel
To make sure you can unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel device, check that you have the tools and conditions mentioned below ready:
- ✅ Google Pixel smartphone (any model)
- ✅ USB Cable (preferably original or high-quality)
- ✅ Computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
- ✅ Device Backup (via Google Drive or local storage)
- ✅ Android SDK Platform-Tools (includes ADB & Fastboot)
Get the Android SDK Platform-Tools from the official website to begin.
🔧 Detailed Steps to Unlock Bootloader on Pixel Devices
Proceed cautiously if you want to unlock bootloader on Google Pixel device and avoiding the bricking of your device.
1️⃣ Enable Developer Options & OEM Unlocking
- Go to Settings > About Phone
- Tap Build Number 7 times to enable Developer Options
- Go to Settings > System > Developer Options
- Toggle OEM Unlocking to ON
Please note that if OEM Unlocking is disabled, follow the instructions in the Troubleshooting section.
2️⃣ Connect Pixel to PC and Reboot to Fastboot Mode
Launch a terminal (macOS/Linux) or Command Prompt (Windows) in the platform-tools folder and
4️⃣ Execute the Unlock Command
Execute the command below:
fastboot flashing unlock
Your Pixel will be asking for your confirmationhe volume buttons to highlight “Unlock the Bootloader” and press power to confirm.
⚠️ This step will completely remove all your personal information from the memory.
5️⃣ Reboot the Device
After unlocking, restart your device using:
fastboot reboot
The device will turn on again, and the first boot might be longer than usual.
6️⃣ Verify Unlock Status
To make sure your bootloader is unlocked, type this command:
adb reboot bootloader
Look at the display – if it shows Device State: Unlocked, you have done it right.
🔄 What to Do After Unlocking the Bootloader
After getting unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel device, the following list contains the steps that are very advisable to take:
- ⚙️ Install Magisk in order to get root access and be able to install powerful system modules
- 🛠 Flash TWRP Recovery for the convenience of backup and flashing
- 🧱 Install a Custom ROM such as LineageOS for the betterment of the performance and additionally new features
- 🧪 Use Universal SafetyNet Fix + Magisk to fix SafetyNet Issues
- 🎥 Restore Widevine L1 Support if your ROM or kernel is compatible with it
🔁 Optional: Relock the Bootloader
If you want to relock (not advisable, unless you are going to install stock firmware):
fastboot flashing lock
⚠️ If you relock while running a custom ROM, your device may become bricked. Only relock if you have the original stock firmware.
🛠 Troubleshooting Common Issues
OEM Unlocking Grayed Out?
- Remove the SIM card
- Do a factory reset
- Try to connect to a different Wi-Fi or mobile network
- Note: Some carrier-locked phones (e.g., Verizon) permanently block bootloader unlocking.
Conclusion
This was all about Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel device. After doing the above steps, when you Open the bootloader of your Google Pixel device. It will turn it into a platform for unlimited customization options. Afterwards you can do whatever you intended after Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel device. We hope you got to know how to Unlock Bootloader on Google Pixel device. Even still if anyone have query then feel free to reach out below.