Android developers want and need Android devices that with unlocked bootloaders so that they can "play" with the software. Average consumers go into dangerous terriority and the void warranty protection by unlocking the bootloaders on Android devices.
HTC began providing the keys to unlocking the bootloaders on certain devices, last year. The unlocking webpage states "We strongly suggest that you do not unlock the bootloader unless you are confident that you understand the risks involved. This is a technical procedure and the side effects could possibly necessitate repairs to your device not covered under warranty." There is a drop menu showing the HTC Sensation 4G, Droid Incredible 1/2, HTC Rezound, HTC ThunderBolt, HTC Vivid, EVO Design and other models with an "*" on some models that require an HBOOT update. Apparently, the HTC One X from AT&T can not be unlocked, yet. Some conjecturatti reported that it is AT&T's fault.
HTC notes ” if you cannot find your phone in this list. Devices launched after 9/2011 will be shipped with the unlock capability. Please check back often for updates on the unlock status of additional devices"
Google-owned Motorola promised unlocked bootloaders and currently offers a webpage to unlock the Motorola Photon Q LTE in order to unlock it you have to go to the Motorola Unlock page with major precautions and agreements.
The same pages and rules apply to the soon to be released Droid RAZR HD and Droid RAZR M Developer Editions that can be unlocked. Verizon Wireless, instead of letting the general public's smartphone on a contract be unlocked for some models insists upon a developer edition that is bought separately and priced without subsidy. The Droid RAZR M Developer Edition is priced at $549 and available for preorder from Motorola for a September 13 release date. The price or release dates have not been announced the Droid RAZR HD Developer Edition.
The is a Verizon Samsung Galaxy S III Developer Editon that is "coming soon.'
The Motorola wording is pretty strong, it puts you in the mobile hotspot and to blame.
- Unlocking your device and installing your own software might cause the device to stop working, disable important features and functionality, and even make the device unsafe to the point of causing you harm. Neither Motorola, nor your wireless carrier or retailer from whom you purchased the device, will be responsible for such damage, so please do not unlock or load any software unless you know what you are doing.
- Once you get the unlock code, your device is no longer covered by the Motorola warranty; in other words, please don't blame us if things go wrong, even if they appear unrelated to unlocking the bootloader.
- Yu still need to operate your device in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations prescribed by the FCC, and any other governmental agency for that matter.
- Finally, in order to unlock your device, you need to agree to important legal terms, which can be found on the next page. Agreeing creates a binding legal agreement, so be sure to read them carefully.
After agreeing to the legal terms you get it on let code which is validated.
When you unlock your bootloader you enter int the Twilight Zone, you can't be sure what you'll find there or if you will ever return to your current reality.
Before you attempt any unlocking or entering into that new dimension, be sure to backup all your data and be ready to lose everything. It's also like going to Vegas, you could win large amounts of software or lose your booty.
Do you think its worth unlocking the boot of your device? Or should you leave the trunk of your data safely locked?
Unlocking the bootloader is different from say unlocking your iPhone so that you can use it with a different carrier. In order to unlock an AT&T iPhone you must be a current AT&T customer or a former AT&T customer who can provide the phone number or account number for the account, the iPhone was designed for use on AT&T's network, All contract obligations, including any term commitment, associated with the device to be unlocked have been fully satisfied and the iPhone has not been reported lost or stolen.