ASUS charges for previously free service - Revision history

Sojourna: Sojourna moved page Asus Charges for Free Service to ASUS charges for previously free service: Misspelled title: Not in sentence case: Company name style; a bit more descriptive.

2026-03-05T02:57:29Z

Sojourna moved page Asus Charges for Free Service to ASUS charges for previously free service: Misspelled title: Not in sentence case: Company name style; a bit more descriptive.

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:57, 5 March 2026
(No difference)

Marc84: /* References */ Add image archive links.

2026-03-05T02:10:38Z

References: Add image archive links.

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	*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref name=":0" />		*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref name=":0" />
	[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter<ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([https://ghostarchive.org/archive/TFKv1 Archived] 2026-03-03 through GhostArchive)</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]		[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter<ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([https://ghostarchive.org/archive/TFKv1 Archived] 2026-03-03 through GhostArchive)</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]
	[[File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|alt=email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. \|thumb\|email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit to Mishaal Rahman on twitter for providing the screenshot. <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083/photo/1		[[File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|alt=email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. \|thumb\|email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit to Mishaal Rahman on twitter for providing the screenshot. <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083/photo/1 ([[:File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|Lawsuit photo archived]] and [[:File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|response letter photo archived]].)
	</ref>]]		</ref>]]

Venture18+: /* References */ reformatted bare citations, removed duplicate citations and re-archived tweet to GhostArchive

2026-03-03T12:56:26Z

References: reformatted bare citations, removed duplicate citations and re-archived tweet to GhostArchive

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:56, 3 March 2026
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	==Background==		==Background==
	[[ASUS]] used to provide free bootloader unlocking capabilities for their Zenfone & Republic of Gamers (ROG) Android phones.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ~~Archived])~~</ref> This feature was actively advertised & was part of the company's appeal to tech-savvy consumers.		[[ASUS]] used to provide free bootloader unlocking capabilities for their Zenfone & Republic of Gamers (ROG) Android phones.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web \|last=Brown \|first=C. Scott \|date=2024-04-05 \|title=ASUS refunds Zenfone buyer for failing to provide bootloader unlock tools as promised \|url=https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ \|archive-date=2025-12-15 \|website=Android Authority}}</ref> This feature was actively advertised & was part of the company's appeal to tech-savvy consumers.

	===Timeline of Events===		===Timeline of Events===
	*In May 2023, ASUS disabled their bootloader unlocking tools without warning<ref~~>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https~~:/~~/www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref~~>		*In May 2023, ASUS disabled their bootloader unlocking tools without warning<ref name=":0" />
	*The company began removing posts about bootloader unlocking from their ZenTalk forums<ref~~>https~~://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		*The company began removing posts about bootloader unlocking from their ZenTalk forums<ref name=":0" />
	*Forum moderators claimed the tools were "under maintenance" or being "overhauled for compliance reasons" without providing timeframes for restoration<ref~~>https~~://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		*Forum moderators claimed the tools were "under maintenance" or being "overhauled for compliance reasons" without providing timeframes for restoration<ref name=":0" />
	*By early 2024, ASUS began charging approximately €185 (excluding VAT) for bootloader unlocking<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/~~post~~-~~89720356 ([~~https://web.archive.org/web/20260223031547/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 ~~Archived])~~</ref>		*By early 2024, ASUS began charging approximately €185 (excluding VAT) for bootloader unlocking<ref name=":1">{{Cite web \|date=2024-08-06 \|title=Asus says they will unlock my bootloader for ...money. \|url=https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223031547/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 \|archive-date=2026-02-23 \|website=xdaforums.com}}</ref>

	==Impact==		==Impact==
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	*'''Removal of Advertised Features''': The bootloader unlocking capability was an advertised feature that influenced people's buying decision, which was later removed.		*'''Removal of Advertised Features''': The bootloader unlocking capability was an advertised feature that influenced people's buying decision, which was later removed.
	*'''Lack of Transparency''': ASUS provided minimal communication about the change in policy, with documented cases of forum posts being removed & only vague explanations being provided.<ref~~>https~~://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref> In one of their communications with a customer, they seem to have accidentaly shared internal communication templates revealing the discontinuation of the bootloader unlock tool, without making any public announcements. <ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/update-unoff-bl-unlock-24-01-20-asus-closed-this-method.4649465/post-89761447/</ref>		*'''Lack of Transparency''': ASUS provided minimal communication about the change in policy, with documented cases of forum posts being removed & only vague explanations being provided.<ref name=":0" /> In one of their communications with a customer, they seem to have accidentaly shared internal communication templates revealing the discontinuation of the bootloader unlock tool, without making any public announcements.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2024-01-06 \|title=UPDATE: Unoff.BL unlock 24.01.20. Asus CLOSED this method! \|url=https://xdaforums.com/t/update-unoff-bl-unlock-24-01-20-asus-closed-this-method.4649465/post-89761447/ \|archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/hIXtC \|archive-date=2026-03-03 \|website=xdaforums.com}}</ref>
	*'''Monetization of Previously Free Features''': The transition from a free service to a paid one, costing €185 (excluding VAT), is a significant change in the product's pricing structure after purchase<ref~~>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356 ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260223031547/https~~:/~~/xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref~~>		*'''Monetization of Previously Free Features''': The transition from a free service to a paid one, costing €185 (excluding VAT), is a significant change in the product's pricing structure after purchase<ref name=":1" />
	*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref~~>https~~://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref name=":0" />
	[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([~~http~~://~~web.archive~~.org/~~web/20250723110144/https://x.com~~/~~MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083~~ Archived])</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]		[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter<ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([https://ghostarchive.org/archive/TFKv1 Archived] 2026-03-03 through GhostArchive)</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]
	[[File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|alt=email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. \|thumb\|email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit to Mishaal Rahman on twitter for providing the screenshot. <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083/photo/1		[[File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|alt=email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. \|thumb\|email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit to Mishaal Rahman on twitter for providing the screenshot. <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083/photo/1
	</ref>]]		</ref>]]

	==Legal Implications==		==Legal Implications==
	This led to at least one successful legal challenge. In March 2024, a UK customer took ASUS to small claims court over this and got a full refund for both the device & the court fees, totaling £770 (~$973). This case potentially sets a precedent for other consumers affected by the policy change.<ref~~>https~~://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		This led to at least one successful legal challenge. In March 2024, a UK customer took ASUS to small claims court over this and got a full refund for both the device & the court fees, totaling £770 (~$973). This case potentially sets a precedent for other consumers affected by the policy change.<ref name=":0" />

	===Consumer Response===		===Consumer Response===

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2026-02-23T03:17:42Z

Added archive URLs for 3 citation(s) using CRWCitationBot

Banana: Added archive URLs for 13 citation(s) using CRWCitationBot

2026-02-15T23:22:21Z

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Big Mac: Page listed on 'Dead-end pages' report. Added links to articles that actually exist.

2026-02-05T04:08:46Z

Page listed on 'Dead-end pages' report. Added links to articles that actually exist.

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:08, 5 February 2026
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	==Background==		==Background==
	ASUS used to provide free bootloader unlocking capabilities for their Zenfone & Republic of Gamers (ROG) Android phones.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref> This feature was actively advertised & was part of the company's appeal to tech-savvy consumers.		[[ASUS]] used to provide free bootloader unlocking capabilities for their Zenfone & Republic of Gamers (ROG) Android phones.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref> This feature was actively advertised & was part of the company's appeal to tech-savvy consumers.

	===Timeline of Events===		===Timeline of Events===

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2026-02-02T21:16:00Z

Oops! You missed a spot!

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:16, 2 February 2026
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	\|ArticleType=		\|ArticleType=
	\|Type=Digital Restrictions, False Advertising, Firmware Lockout		\|Type=Digital Restrictions, False Advertising, Firmware Lockout
	\|Description=On May 2023, without giving a notice to the users, ASUS removed the ability for ~~it's users to access~~ the ~~bootloader tools on their~~ Zenfone and ROG Android phones. As a follow-up, in Early 2024, ASUS began charging 185 euros for bootloader unlocking.		\|Description=On May 2023, without giving a notice to the users, ASUS removed the ability for owners of the Zenfone and ROG Android phones to access the bootloader tools. As a follow-up, in Early 2024, ASUS began charging 185 euros for bootloader unlocking.
	}}		}}
	The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.		The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.

H0l0: fixed gibberish

2026-02-02T21:14:59Z

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← Older revision		Revision as of 21:14, 2 February 2026
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	\|ArticleType=		\|ArticleType=
	\|Type=Digital Restrictions, False Advertising, Firmware Lockout		\|Type=Digital Restrictions, False Advertising, Firmware Lockout
	\|Description=On May 2023, without giving a notice to ~~it's~~ users, ASUS removed the ability for it's users to access the bootloader tools on their Zenfone and ROG Android phones. As a follow-up, in Early 2024, ASUS began charging 185 euros for bootloader unlocking.		\|Description=On May 2023, without giving a notice to the users, ASUS removed the ability for it's users to access the bootloader tools on their Zenfone and ROG Android phones. As a follow-up, in Early 2024, ASUS began charging 185 euros for bootloader unlocking.
	}}		}}
	The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.		The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.

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2026-02-02T21:12:45Z

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← Older revision		Revision as of 21:12, 2 February 2026
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	{{IncidentCargo		{{IncidentCargo
	\|Company=ASUS		\|Company=ASUS
	\|StartDate=2023		\|StartDate=2023-5
	\|EndDate=		\|EndDate=
	\|Status=		\|Status=Active
	\|ProductLine=ROG, Zenfone		\|ProductLine=ROG, Zenfone
	\|Product=		\|Product=
	\|ArticleType=		\|ArticleType=
	\|Type=		\|Type=Digital Restrictions, False Advertising, Firmware Lockout
	\|Description=		\|Description=On May 2023, without giving a notice to it's users, ASUS removed the ability for it's users to access the bootloader tools on their Zenfone and ROG Android phones. As a follow-up, in Early 2024, ASUS began charging 185 euros for bootloader unlocking.
	}}		}}
	The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.		The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.

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2026-01-26T16:00:10Z

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← Older revision		Revision as of 16:00, 26 January 2026
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			{{IncidentCargo
			\|Company=ASUS
			\|StartDate=2023
			\|EndDate=
			\|Status=
			\|ProductLine=ROG, Zenfone
			\|Product=
			\|ArticleType=
			\|Type=
			\|Description=
			}}
	The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.		The ASUS boot loader unlocking tool disappearing is a prime example of how device ownership rights have eroded, where functionality that was present at the time of sale is no longer present years down the line.

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:17, 23 February 2026
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	*The company began removing posts about bootloader unlocking from their ZenTalk forums<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		*The company began removing posts about bootloader unlocking from their ZenTalk forums<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	*Forum moderators claimed the tools were "under maintenance" or being "overhauled for compliance reasons" without providing timeframes for restoration<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		*Forum moderators claimed the tools were "under maintenance" or being "overhauled for compliance reasons" without providing timeframes for restoration<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	*By early 2024, ASUS began charging approximately €185 (excluding VAT) for bootloader unlocking<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>		*By early 2024, ASUS began charging approximately €185 (excluding VAT) for bootloader unlocking<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356 ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260223031547/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>

	==Impact==		==Impact==
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	*'''Removal of Advertised Features''': The bootloader unlocking capability was an advertised feature that influenced people's buying decision, which was later removed.		*'''Removal of Advertised Features''': The bootloader unlocking capability was an advertised feature that influenced people's buying decision, which was later removed.
	*'''Lack of Transparency''': ASUS provided minimal communication about the change in policy, with documented cases of forum posts being removed & only vague explanations being provided.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref> In one of their communications with a customer, they seem to have accidentaly shared internal communication templates revealing the discontinuation of the bootloader unlock tool, without making any public announcements. <ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/update-unoff-bl-unlock-24-01-20-asus-closed-this-method.4649465/post-89761447/</ref>		*'''Lack of Transparency''': ASUS provided minimal communication about the change in policy, with documented cases of forum posts being removed & only vague explanations being provided.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref> In one of their communications with a customer, they seem to have accidentaly shared internal communication templates revealing the discontinuation of the bootloader unlock tool, without making any public announcements. <ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/update-unoff-bl-unlock-24-01-20-asus-closed-this-method.4649465/post-89761447/</ref>
	*'''Monetization of Previously Free Features''': The transition from a free service to a paid one, costing €185 (excluding VAT), is a significant change in the product's pricing structure after purchase<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>		*'''Monetization of Previously Free Features''': The transition from a free service to a paid one, costing €185 (excluding VAT), is a significant change in the product's pricing structure after purchase<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356 ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260223031547/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>
	*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>		*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250723110144/https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 Archived])</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]		[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250723110144/https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 Archived])</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]
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	===Consumer Response===		===Consumer Response===
	The response from the consumer community has been notably negative, with documented concerns about:		The response from the consumer community has been notably negative, with documented concerns about:
	*The high cost of the unlocking service (€185 excluding VAT)<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>		*The high cost of the unlocking service (€185 excluding VAT)<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356 ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260223031547/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>
	*The principle of charging for a previously free feature<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260215232054/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>		*The principle of charging for a previously free feature<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260215232054/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:22, 15 February 2026
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	==Background==		==Background==
	[[ASUS]] used to provide free bootloader unlocking capabilities for their Zenfone & Republic of Gamers (ROG) Android phones.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref> This feature was actively advertised & was part of the company's appeal to tech-savvy consumers.		[[ASUS]] used to provide free bootloader unlocking capabilities for their Zenfone & Republic of Gamers (ROG) Android phones.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref> This feature was actively advertised & was part of the company's appeal to tech-savvy consumers.

	===Timeline of Events===		===Timeline of Events===
	*In May 2023, ASUS disabled their bootloader unlocking tools without warning<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref>		*In May 2023, ASUS disabled their bootloader unlocking tools without warning<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	*The company began removing posts about bootloader unlocking from their ZenTalk forums<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref>		*The company began removing posts about bootloader unlocking from their ZenTalk forums<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	*Forum moderators claimed the tools were "under maintenance" or being "overhauled for compliance reasons" without providing timeframes for restoration<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref>		*Forum moderators claimed the tools were "under maintenance" or being "overhauled for compliance reasons" without providing timeframes for restoration<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	*By early 2024, ASUS began charging approximately €185 (excluding VAT) for bootloader unlocking<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>		*By early 2024, ASUS began charging approximately €185 (excluding VAT) for bootloader unlocking<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>

Line 25:		Line 25:

	*'''Removal of Advertised Features''': The bootloader unlocking capability was an advertised feature that influenced people's buying decision, which was later removed.		*'''Removal of Advertised Features''': The bootloader unlocking capability was an advertised feature that influenced people's buying decision, which was later removed.
	*'''Lack of Transparency''': ASUS provided minimal communication about the change in policy, with documented cases of forum posts being removed & only vague explanations being provided.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref><ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref> In one of their communications with a customer, they seem to have accidentaly shared internal communication templates revealing the discontinuation of the bootloader unlock tool, without making any public announcements. <ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/update-unoff-bl-unlock-24-01-20-asus-closed-this-method.4649465/post-89761447/</ref>		*'''Lack of Transparency''': ASUS provided minimal communication about the change in policy, with documented cases of forum posts being removed & only vague explanations being provided.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref> In one of their communications with a customer, they seem to have accidentaly shared internal communication templates revealing the discontinuation of the bootloader unlock tool, without making any public announcements. <ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/update-unoff-bl-unlock-24-01-20-asus-closed-this-method.4649465/post-89761447/</ref>
	*'''Monetization of Previously Free Features''': The transition from a free service to a paid one, costing €185 (excluding VAT), is a significant change in the product's pricing structure after purchase<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>		*'''Monetization of Previously Free Features''': The transition from a free service to a paid one, costing €185 (excluding VAT), is a significant change in the product's pricing structure after purchase<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>
	*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref>		*'''Extended Device Lifespan Impact''': The change affects consumers' ability to maintain & update their devices beyond ASUS's official support window, which has been documented as "one of the worst software support commitments in the Android world"<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>
	[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]		[[File:Lawsuit against asus over bootloader unlocking.jpg\|thumb\|Document of customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit Mishaal Rahman on twitter <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 ([http://web.archive.org/web/20250723110144/https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083 Archived])</ref> for this document showing the customer suit against ASUS]]
	[[File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|alt=email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. \|thumb\|email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit to Mishaal Rahman on twitter for providing the screenshot. <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083/photo/1		[[File:ASUS concedes defeat to customer who filed small claims court suit.png\|alt=email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. \|thumb\|email from ASUS in response to customer small claims suit against ASUS over bootloader unlocking. Credit to Mishaal Rahman on twitter for providing the screenshot. <ref>https://x.com/MishaalRahman/status/1776306579979047083/photo/1
	</ref>]]		</ref>]]

	==Legal Implications==		==Legal Implications==
	This led to at least one successful legal challenge. In March 2024, a UK customer took ASUS to small claims court over this and got a full refund for both the device & the court fees, totaling £770 (~$973). This case potentially sets a precedent for other consumers affected by the policy change.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/</ref>		This led to at least one successful legal challenge. In March 2024, a UK customer took ASUS to small claims court over this and got a full refund for both the device & the court fees, totaling £770 (~$973). This case potentially sets a precedent for other consumers affected by the policy change.<ref>https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251215020008/https://www.androidauthority.com/asus-bootloader-unlock-settlement-3431818/ Archived])</ref>

	===Consumer Response===		===Consumer Response===
	The response from the consumer community has been notably negative, with documented concerns about:		The response from the consumer community has been notably negative, with documented concerns about:
	*The high cost of the unlocking service (€185 excluding VAT)<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>		*The high cost of the unlocking service (€185 excluding VAT)<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/post-89720356</ref>
	*The principle of charging for a previously free feature<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/</ref>		*The principle of charging for a previously free feature<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260215232054/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>

	===EU Warranty Implications===		===EU Warranty Implications===
	This has additional implications in the European Union, where:		This has additional implications in the European Union, where:
	*It is illegal to deny warranty repairs based on software modifications<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/</ref>		*It is illegal to deny warranty repairs based on software modifications<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260215232054/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>
	*ASUS has been reported to deny warranty service for devices with unlocked bootloaders, despite this legal protection<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/</ref>		*ASUS has been reported to deny warranty service for devices with unlocked bootloaders, despite this legal protection<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260215232054/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>
	*The company has offered "one time warranty repairs" with the condition of relocking the bootloader<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/</ref>		*The company has offered "one time warranty repairs" with the condition of relocking the bootloader<ref>https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/ ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260215232054/https://xdaforums.com/t/asus-says-they-will-unlock-my-bootloader-for-money.4685488/#post-89720356 Archived])</ref>

	==References==		==References==