Phones that do not allow bootloader unlock
A bootloader is a program that runs when the phone turns on and loads the operating system. [1] Most phones lock the bootloader by default, which means that a new bootloader or operating system can't be installed on the phone. [2]
How it works
Some manufacturers do not allow unlocking the bootloader even if the phone is not under a contract. Some manufacturers allow to unlock the bootloader on some regions, or require a payment or an online connection to unlock the phone. Some manufacturers may void the warranty or block certain features permanently if the bootloader is unlocked
Why it is a problem
If the bootloader cannot be unlocked the operating system can't be modified in any way which is not allowed by the manufacturer.
Examples[3]
- Huawei
- HMD Global/Nokia
- Vivo/IQOO
- ZTE
- Meizu
- Asus
- Alcatel
- Apple
- Energizer
- Cat
- Sharp
- Doogee
- TCL
- Coolpad
- Realme (on some regions)
- OPPO (outside China)
- Xiaomi (China only)
- Samsung (USA only)
- HTC
- Motorola (on some devices)
- Google Pixel (Verizon)
References
- ↑ "GNU Grub website".
- ↑ "Lock and unlock the bootloader". Android Open Source project.
- ↑ "Bootloader wall of shame". GitHub.