Bootloader Unlocking a Google Pixel 6
What is “Unlocking the Bootloader”?
Unlocking the bootloader on a device is a process that allows you to gain access to the device's system files and make changes that are typically restricted by the manufacturer. It's an essential step for users who want to root their Android devices, install custom ROMs, or perform other advanced modifications. Keep in mind that unlocking the bootloader may void your warranty, will wipe the device, and it can also lead to device instability, so it's crucial to understand the risks and proceed with caution. Bootloader unlocking is the first step in rooting an Android device.
Why do Digital Forensic Specialists Unlock a Bootloader?
Digital Forensic specialists may want to bootloader unlock a device for various purposes. These tasks may involve comprehending the device's functionality, evaluating applications, gaining access to raw data, obtaining a complete file system after generating test data. Having a full file system acquisition when generating testing data can help the investigator to fully analyze how the phone functions and where data is stored. As Android devices undergo advancements or operating system updates, the locations where data is stored may undergo alterations. In the examination of evidence, investigators aim to avoid overlooking pertinent information due to these potentially changing storage patterns. Developing an awareness of mobile data structures and their locations ensures that investigators and forensic experts remain well-versed and up to date with valuable knowledge.
Application and Tools Utilized within this Blog:
Google USB Driver: https://developer.android.com/studio/run/win-usb
SDK Platform-Tools for Windows: https://developer.android.com/tools/releases/platform-tools
Steps to Unlock the Bootloader
If the device has not been put into Developer mode, follow steps 1-9 first. If the device is already in Developer mode, start at step 10:
1. Go to Settings.
2. Set up the device and plug the device into the computer using a USB connection.
3. Open “Settings”.
4. Navigate to and select “About Phone.”
5. Scroll down until there will be a Build number (make note of it).
6. Click on “Build number” 7 times (there will be a countdown to becoming a developer). Once you reach the final input, the phone will ask for credentials if there are any, ex: pin number.
7. Go back to main settings menu and select “System.”
8. Within System, navigate to the Developer Options { } setting.
9. Under developer options, ensure the “Use Developer Options” toggle switch is on by pressing the toggle button. You will also see the option for “OEM unlocking”.
10. Once you toggle the “OEM unlocking” option on, you will receive a popup “Warning: Device protection features will not work on this device while the setting is turned on”. Select “Enable” to continue.
11. Next, we are going to update the devices USB Driver
12. Navigate to the Google Android Developer site to grab the drivers for the Google Pixel device: https://developer.android.com/studio/run/win-usb
13. Select Download the Google USB Driver ZIP file link.
14. Extract the downloaded file (in this example it is usb_driver_r13_windows.zip).
15. Navigate to Device Manager on your Windows computer.
16. Under “Other Devices” select the Pixel 6 device, and double-click it to open the device’s properties.
17. Navigate to the Drivers tab and select update drivers.
18. Select Manually browse my computer for drivers.
19. Navigate to the location where the USB driver directory is. Ensure “Include subfolders” is checked to select the entire directory and select “OK” and Next to install the driver.
20. Upon successful completion, this screen will be presented.
Alternatively, you may receive “The best drivers for your device are already installed”. If so, click “close” and proceed to next step.
21. Next, we will unlock the bootloader. **Please note that once this completed, the device will be wiped and all data will be lost.
22. Restart device (hold down volume up, and power button and select “Restart”)
23. When the screen is black, hold down the volume button until device starts in Fastboot mode. You can see below that the bootloader is locked by the “Device state: locked”.
24. Open the platform tools folder and type “CMD” to open the command prompt.
25. Type “fastboot flashing unlock.”
26. The user will receive a warning and will see “Do not unlock the bootloader” (image on the left). Press the volume key to see “Unlock the bootloader” (image on the right) and then press the button with the “>”.
27. The user will now see a “Start” button with the “Device state: unlocked”. Press “Start”.
28. The user will now see a message that, “The bootloader is unlocked, and software integrity cannot be guaranteed.” User does not have to interact with this, the device will start automatically.
Conclusion
Remember, this is a general guide, and the steps may vary for different manufacturers of Android devices. It's crucial to find specific instructions for your device to avoid any issues. Additionally, keep in mind that unlocking the bootloader can have consequences, so proceed at your own risk, and make sure you understand the implications for the particular device.
I hope this information proves beneficial for Bootloader Unlocking a Google Pixel 6. Should you have any inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Hexordia@Hexordia.com. Please see https://www.hexordia.com/blog-1-1/unlock-rooting-pixel6a for Hexordia’s Android: Unlock and Rooting Blog.