Are you a proud owner of the latest Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro smartphone? Unlocking the bootloader of your device can open up a world of possibilities, allowing you to customize and optimize your smartphone experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of unlocking the bootloader on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro. Let’s get started!
Installing ADB and Fastboot Tools
Before we dive into the bootloader unlocking process, it’s essential to have ADB and fastboot tools installed on your computer. These tools will enable us to issue the necessary commands to unlock the bootloader. If you haven’t installed ADB and fastboot tools yet, don’t worry! We have a detailed tutorial that will guide you through the installation process. You can find the tutorial here.
Step 1: Enable Developer Mode
To begin the bootloader unlocking process, we first need to enable developer mode on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro. Follow these simple steps to enable developer mode:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on “About phone.”
- Find the “Build number” entry and tap on it seven to eight times. You will see a message indicating that you are now a developer.
Congratulations! You have successfully enabled developer mode on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro.
Step 2: Enable OEM Unlocking
Now that developer mode is enabled, we need to enable OEM unlocking. This step is crucial because it allows us to unlock the bootloader. Here’s how you can enable OEM unlocking:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on “System.”
- Tap on “Advanced.”
- Tap on “Developer options.”
- Find the toggle labeled “OEM unlocking” and enable it.
- Confirm that you own the device by entering your pin, pattern, or password.
- Tap on the “Enable” button to allow OEM unlocking.
Great job! You have successfully enabled OEM unlocking on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro.
Step 3: Boot into Fastboot Mode
Next, we need to boot your device into fastboot mode, also known as bootloader mode. Follow these steps to enter fastboot mode on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro:
- Press and hold the power button to open the power menu.
- Tap on the “Restart” option to restart your smartphone.
- While your phone is restarting, press and hold the volume down button.
- Keep holding the volume down button until you see the fastboot mode screen.
- Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable.
Fantastic! You have successfully entered fastboot mode on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro.
Step 4: Connect Your Device to Your Computer
Before we proceed with the bootloader unlocking process, ensure that your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro is connected to your computer via a USB cable. This connection is crucial for issuing commands from your computer to your device.
Step 5: Open a Command Prompt or Terminal
To issue the necessary commands for unlocking the bootloader, we need to open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer. Follow these steps to open a command prompt or terminal:
- Navigate to the folder where you have installed ADB and fastboot tools on your computer.
- Right-click in the folder and select “Open command prompt” or “Open PowerShell” (Windows) or “Open terminal” (Mac/Linux).
Step 6: Verify Device Connection
To ensure that your device is properly connected to your computer, we need to verify the device connection. In the command prompt or terminal window, type the following command and hit enter:
fastboot devices
If your device is connected correctly, you should see a device listed in the response. This confirms that your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro is connected to your computer.
Step 7: Unlock the Bootloader
Now, it’s time to unlock the bootloader of your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro. In the command prompt or terminal window, type the following command and hit enter:
fastboot flashing unlock
If everything has been done correctly, you should see an “OK” message in the command prompt or terminal window. At this point, your device will display a screen with different options.
Using the volume up or volume down buttons, highlight the option that says “Unlock the bootloader.” Read the warning message carefully before proceeding. When you are ready to unlock the bootloader, press the power button.
Your device will reboot and display the unlocked bootloader status. Congratulations! You have successfully unlocked the bootloader of your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro.
Step 8: Reboot Your Device
After unlocking the bootloader, your device will be reset, and all data will be wiped. To continue using your device, you need to go through the Android setup process. Follow these steps to reboot your device:
- Press the power button to select the “Start” option.
- Your device will start rebooting, and you will be taken back to the Android operating system.
Step 9: Enable Developer Options
Once your device boots back into the Android system, you can re-enable developer options. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on “System.”
- Tap on “Advanced.”
- Tap on “Developer options.”
In the developer options menu, you should see that the OEM unlocking option is grayed out, and the text indicates that the bootloader is already unlocked. This confirms that you have successfully unlocked the bootloader on your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro.
Conclusion
Unlocking the bootloader of your Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro can give you more control over your device and enable you to customize it to your liking. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you have successfully unlocked the bootloader, allowing you to explore new possibilities and enhance your smartphone experience.
Remember, unlocking the bootloader voids the warranty of your device, and it can also lead to potential risks if not done correctly. Proceed with caution and make sure you understand the consequences before unlocking the bootloader.
If you encounter any difficulties or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our support team. We are here to assist you on your tech journey.
Happy exploring with your unlocked Google Pixel 6 or Pixel 6 Pro!
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.
8 comments