LG Bootloader incident - Revision history

Rudxain: minor fmt; some links

2026-04-18T21:09:27Z

minor fmt; some links

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:09, 18 April 2026
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	==LG Bootloader Unlocking Approach==		==LG Bootloader Unlocking Approach==
	[[File:LG G6 Fastboot mode for Bootloader unlock.jpg\|thumb\|426x426px\|LG G6 Device in fastboot mode requiring 'unlock.bin' to unlock bootloader]]		[[File:LG G6 Fastboot mode for Bootloader unlock.jpg\|thumb\|426x426px\|LG G6 Device in fastboot mode requiring 'unlock.bin' to unlock bootloader]]
	LG implemented a varied bootloader unlocking process across different regions. While some markets allowed standard Android unlocking methods, other regions required users to request a unique 'unlock.bin' key file directly from LG via their Developer portal.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=6 Jun 2020 \|title=Unlock Bootloader \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606173006/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|archive-date=2020-06-06 \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>		LG implemented a varied bootloader unlocking process across different regions. While some markets allowed standard Android unlocking methods, other regions required users to request a unique <code>unlock.bin</code> key file directly from LG via their Developer portal.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=6 Jun 2020 \|title=Unlock Bootloader \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606173006/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|archive-date=2020-06-06 \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>

	In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.		In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.

	On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or [[wikipedia:List_of_custom_Android_distributions\|custom ROM]] installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>		On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG [[List of phones that do not allow bootloader unlock\|devices permanently locked]], restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or [[wikipedia:List_of_custom_Android_distributions\|custom ROM]] installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>

	The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.		The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.
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	==Consumer response==		==Consumer response==
	LG's decision to discontinue their Developer portal to unlock bootloader generated negative response from users on sites like XDA Developers and Reddit. Users expressed frustration at being unable to install alternative Android versions such as LineageOS on their devices.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LineageOS Wiki - LG \|url=https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/#lg \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LineageOS Wiki \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128183856/https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/ \|archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2017-05-31 \|title=[GUIDE] Official LG G6 Bootloader Unlock (Currently supported: EU H870, USA US997) \|url=https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=XDA Forums \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222165813/https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=nobodywasishere \|date=2021-12-05 \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service on December 31st \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=Reddit \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20211205030734/https://old.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|archive-date=5 Dec 2021}}</ref>		LG's decision to discontinue their Developer portal to unlock bootloader generated negative response from users on sites like [[wikipedia:Valnet\|XDA Developers]] and [[Reddit]]. Users expressed frustration at being unable to install alternative Android versions such as [[wikipedia:LineageOS\|LineageOS]] on their devices.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LineageOS Wiki - LG \|url=https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/#lg \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LineageOS Wiki \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128183856/https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/ \|archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2017-05-31 \|title=[GUIDE] Official LG G6 Bootloader Unlock (Currently supported: EU H870, USA US997) \|url=https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=XDA Forums \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222165813/https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=nobodywasishere \|date=2021-12-05 \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service on December 31st \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=Reddit \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20211205030734/https://old.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|archive-date=5 Dec 2021}}</ref>

	The lockdown effectively prevented users from extending the software life of their smartphones, limiting them to LG's official updates. While LG had maintained a niche following for features like high-quality DAC and expandable storage, the bootloader restriction eliminated the platform's flexibility for custom software modifications.		The lockdown effectively prevented users from extending the software life of their smartphones, limiting them to LG's official updates. While LG had maintained a niche following for features like high-quality DAC and expandable storage, the bootloader restriction eliminated the platform's flexibility for custom software modifications.

Rudxain: link "custom ROM" and alt-OS to WP:android-distros

2026-04-18T21:00:33Z

link "custom ROM" and alt-OS to WP:android-distros

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:00, 18 April 2026
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	}}		}}

	After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251220114212/https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|archive-date=20 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251117025935/https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to [[Bootloader_unlocking\|unlock bootloader]] on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.		After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251220114212/https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|archive-date=20 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251117025935/https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to [[Bootloader_unlocking\|unlock bootloader]] on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or [[wikipedia:List_of_custom_Android_distributions\|alternative operating systems]] on certain LG smartphones.
	==Background==		==Background==

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	In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.		In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.

	On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>		On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or [[wikipedia:List_of_custom_Android_distributions\|custom ROM]] installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>

	The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.		The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.

Sojourna: /* LG Bootloader Unlocking Approach */

2026-04-01T20:05:01Z

LG Bootloader Unlocking Approach

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:05, 1 April 2026
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	==LG Bootloader Unlocking Approach==		==LG Bootloader Unlocking Approach==
	[[File:LG G6 Fastboot mode for Bootloader ~~unlcok~~.jpg\|thumb\|426x426px\|LG G6 Device in fastboot mode requiring 'unlock.bin' to unlock bootloader]]		[[File:LG G6 Fastboot mode for Bootloader unlock.jpg\|thumb\|426x426px\|LG G6 Device in fastboot mode requiring 'unlock.bin' to unlock bootloader]]
	LG implemented a varied bootloader unlocking process across different regions. While some markets allowed standard Android unlocking methods, other regions required users to request a unique 'unlock.bin' key file directly from LG via their Developer portal.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=2020~~-06-06~~ \|title=Unlock Bootloader \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606173006/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|archive-date=2020-06-06 \|access-date=2025~~-08-30~~ \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>		LG implemented a varied bootloader unlocking process across different regions. While some markets allowed standard Android unlocking methods, other regions required users to request a unique 'unlock.bin' key file directly from LG via their Developer portal.<ref>{{Cite web \|date=6 Jun 2020 \|title=Unlock Bootloader \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606173006/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev?categoryId=CTULRS0702 \|archive-date=2020-06-06 \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>

	In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.		In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.

	On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025~~-08-30~~ \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>		On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=30 Aug 2025 \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>

	The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.		The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.

Bananabot: Added archive URLs for 7 citation(s) using CRWCitationBot

2026-02-23T05:53:19Z

Added archive URLs for 7 citation(s) using CRWCitationBot

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:53, 23 February 2026
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	}}		}}

	After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to [[Bootloader_unlocking\|unlock bootloader]] on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.		After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251220114212/https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|archive-date=20 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251117025935/https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to [[Bootloader_unlocking\|unlock bootloader]] on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.
	==Background==		==Background==

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	===Bootloader Unlocking process on Android Devices===		===Bootloader Unlocking process on Android Devices===
	On most Android devices, bootloader unlocking involves a relatively straightforward process. Users typically need to enable Developer Options in their phone settings, activate OEM unlocking, connect the device to a computer, and use fastboot<ref>{{Cite web \|title=fastboot Manuals \|url=https://manpages.debian.org/unstable/fastboot/fastboot.1.en.html \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=debian Manpages}}</ref> commands to unlock the bootloader.		On most Android devices, bootloader unlocking involves a relatively straightforward process. Users typically need to enable Developer Options in their phone settings, activate OEM unlocking, connect the device to a computer, and use fastboot<ref>{{Cite web \|title=fastboot Manuals \|url=https://manpages.debian.org/unstable/fastboot/fastboot.1.en.html \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=debian Manpages \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112192512/https://manpages.debian.org/unstable/fastboot/fastboot.1.en.html \|archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref> commands to unlock the bootloader.

	===Carrier-Locked Devices===		===Carrier-Locked Devices===
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	In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.		In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.

	On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>		On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Developer \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104112838/https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|archive-date=4 Jan 2026}}</ref>

	The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.		The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.
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	==Consumer response==		==Consumer response==
	LG's decision to discontinue their Developer portal to unlock bootloader generated negative response from users on sites like XDA Developers and Reddit. Users expressed frustration at being unable to install alternative Android versions such as LineageOS on their devices.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LineageOS Wiki - LG \|url=https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/#lg \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LineageOS Wiki}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2017-05-31 \|title=[GUIDE] Official LG G6 Bootloader Unlock (Currently supported: EU H870, USA US997) \|url=https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=XDA Forums}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=nobodywasishere \|date=2021-12-05 \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service on December 31st \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=Reddit}}</ref>		LG's decision to discontinue their Developer portal to unlock bootloader generated negative response from users on sites like XDA Developers and Reddit. Users expressed frustration at being unable to install alternative Android versions such as LineageOS on their devices.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LineageOS Wiki - LG \|url=https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/#lg \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LineageOS Wiki \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128183856/https://wiki.lineageos.org/devices/ \|archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|date=2017-05-31 \|title=[GUIDE] Official LG G6 Bootloader Unlock (Currently supported: EU H870, USA US997) \|url=https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=XDA Forums \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222165813/https://xdaforums.com/t/guide-official-lg-g6-bootloader-unlock-currently-supported-eu-h870-usa-us997.3614719/ \|archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=nobodywasishere \|date=2021-12-05 \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service on December 31st \|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=Reddit \|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20211205030734/https://old.reddit.com/r/LineageOS/comments/r961u3/termination_of_lg_mobile_developer_website/ \|archive-date=5 Dec 2021}}</ref>

	The lockdown effectively prevented users from extending the software life of their smartphones, limiting them to LG's official updates. While LG had maintained a niche following for features like high-quality DAC and expandable storage, the bootloader restriction eliminated the platform's flexibility for custom software modifications.		The lockdown effectively prevented users from extending the software life of their smartphones, limiting them to LG's official updates. While LG had maintained a niche following for features like high-quality DAC and expandable storage, the bootloader restriction eliminated the platform's flexibility for custom software modifications.

Rudxain: link to BL unlocking

2025-11-06T18:49:06Z

link to BL unlocking

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:49, 6 November 2025
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	}}		}}

	After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to unlock bootloader on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.		After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to [[Bootloader_unlocking\|unlock bootloader]] on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.
	==Background==		==Background==

Rudxain: link "pre-installed apps" to Bloatware

2025-11-06T18:42:26Z

link "pre-installed apps" to Bloatware

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:42, 6 November 2025
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	===Carrier-Locked Devices===		===Carrier-Locked Devices===
	Mobile carriers typically ship Android devices with locked bootloaders as a means of controlling device software. This practice prevents users from installing alternative operating systems, removing pre-installed apps, or making significant system modifications.		Mobile carriers typically ship Android devices with locked bootloaders as a means of controlling device software. This practice prevents users from installing alternative operating systems, removing [[Bloatware\|pre-installed apps]], or making significant system modifications.

	By maintaining locked bootloaders, carriers ensure devices remain within their intended ecosystem, limiting user control and customization options. This approach restricts the full potential of the hardware, constraining users' ability to personalize or extend the life of their smartphones.		By maintaining locked bootloaders, carriers ensure devices remain within their intended ecosystem, limiting user control and customization options. This approach restricts the full potential of the hardware, constraining users' ability to personalize or extend the life of their smartphones.

Drakeula: remove redundant category

2025-09-22T04:48:26Z

remove redundant category

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:48, 22 September 2025
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	{{reflist}}		{{reflist}}
	[[Category:LG]]		[[Category:LG]]
	~~[[Category:Anti-Consumer Practices]]~~
	[[Category:Discontinued products]]		[[Category:Discontinued products]]

Mr Pollo at 00:54, 2 September 2025

2025-09-02T00:54:59Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:54, 2 September 2025
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	{{StubNotice}}		{{StubNotice}}
			{{IncidentCargo
	After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to unlock bootloader on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.{{IncidentCargo
	\|Company=LG		\|Company=LG
	\|StartDate=2021-12-31		\|StartDate=2021-12-31
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	\|Description=After exiting mobile, LG ends bootloader unlock services, preventing users from installing custom ROMs on their devices.		\|Description=After exiting mobile, LG ends bootloader unlock services, preventing users from installing custom ROMs on their devices.
	}}		}}

			After leaving the smartphone market in 2021<ref>{{Cite web \|title=LG to Close Mobile Phone Business Worldwide \|url=https://www.lgnewsroom.com/2021/04/lg-to-close-mobile-phone-business-worldwide/ \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Newsroom}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web \|last=Ro \|date=2021-12-06 \|title=LG is shutting down its developer website, last chance to unlock your bootloader \|url=https://www.gsmarena.com/lg_is_shutting_down_its_developer_website_last_chance_to_unlock_your_bootloader-news-52152.php \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=GSMArena}}</ref>, LG removed the ability for users to unlock bootloader on their existing devices. This decision effectively prevents users from installing custom firmware or alternative operating systems on certain LG smartphones.
	==Background==		==Background==

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	==References==		==References==
	{{reflist~~}}LG Android{{Ph-I-C~~}}		{{reflist}}
	[[Category:LG]]		[[Category:LG]]
	~~[[Category:Android]]~~
	~~[[Category:Smartphones]]~~
	[[Category:Anti-Consumer Practices]]		[[Category:Anti-Consumer Practices]]
	[[Category:Discontinued products]]		[[Category:Discontinued products]]

7x7: fixed citation date

2025-08-30T23:40:37Z

fixed citation date

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:40, 30 August 2025
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	In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.		In these regions, users needed to contact LG providing their device ID and IMEI number to obtain the necessary unlock file via email. This approach introduced an additional administrative step to the bootloader unlocking process, differentiating LG's method from other Android manufacturers' more direct unlocking procedures.

	On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-30~~-08~~ \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>		On 31 December 2021, LG closed its developer portal, effectively terminating all bootloader unlock requests. This action left consumers with LG devices permanently locked, restricting them to only official LG software updates and preventing any further system modifications or custom ROM installations.<ref>{{Cite web \|title=Termination of LG Mobile Developer website service \|url=https://developer.lge.com/resource/mobile/RetrieveBootloader.dev \|url-status=live \|access-date=2025-08-30 \|website=LG Developer}}</ref>

	The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.		The closure of the developer portal marked a final limitation for LG smartphone owners, effectively freezing the software ecosystem of existing devices and removing any future possibilities for bootloader unlocking.

7x7: Added categories

2025-08-30T23:38:41Z

Added categories

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:38, 30 August 2025
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	==References==		==References==
	{{reflist}}LG Android{{Ph-I-C}}		{{reflist}}LG Android{{Ph-I-C}}
			[[Category:LG]]
			[[Category:Android]]
			[[Category:Smartphones]]
			[[Category:Anti-Consumer Practices]]
			[[Category:Discontinued products]]