cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 

Original topic:

Why can't we unlock our bootloaders on paid devices?

(Topic created: 04-06-2025 08:31 AM)
1448 Views
qanony
Asteroid
Options
Suggestions
Seriously It’s frustrating that Samsung locks the bootloader on devices we’ve fully paid for. I get the security concerns, but we should at least have the option to unlock it—at our own risk. Many of us want more control over our devices, like installing custom ROMs or rooting for advanced features. Other brands offer unlock options—why not Samsung? Anyone else feel the same?
5 Replies
CEParsons
Black Hole
Options
Suggestions
The days of the wild west are long gone, cowboy. For 99.9% of users, stability and security are more important than radical freedom.
RedOregon
Comet
Options
Suggestions
Has nothing to do with the Beta. Ask this question in the main Members forum and you'll get a lot more information and discussion.
Options
Suggestions
I agree those days were fun and brought newer features to older devices even after manufacturers said they couldn't run them.
0 Likes
Reply
USBetaModerator3
Beta Moderator
Options
Suggestions

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

We understand your perspective and the desire for greater control over your device. At this time, Samsung prioritizes device security, user data protection, and software integrity—which is why bootloader unlocking is restricted on many models, particularly those sold in certain regions or tied to specific carrier requirements.

That said, we appreciate your feedback and will share it with the relevant team. We understand this is an important topic for advanced users, and your input helps us shape future policies and experiences.

Regards,
One UI Beta Team

 

0 Likes
Reply
Ziad_Sydek
Constellation
Options
Suggestions

Samsung prioritizes security, user data, and software integrity.

●  For security reasons: Show clear warnings and make unlocking harder if needed.

●  For user data: The device is already wiped once the bootloader is unlocked.

●  For software integrity: Custom ROMs are not officially verified.

There is no fair reason to remove the bootloader unlock option entirely. Saying “Your device is locked permanently for your protection” is not acceptable.

I purchased this device—specifically a carrier-unlocked model with strong hardware and SoC—and I should be free to use it as I choose. If I want to run a newer Android version on my unlocked device, and accept the risks to security, data, and integrity, that should remain my choice.

Many Samsung devices reach the end of major software updates after the promised 4 years of OS upgrades. That is understandable, since continued support is costly. However, with the bootloader permanently locked, users are also prevented from extending the life of their device unofficially. This effectively limits the use of otherwise powerful and capable hardware.

●  It is okay for Samsung to end support after 4 years.

●  It is not okay to prevent users from updating unofficially.

It should be one or the other: continue official updates beyond the 4-year promise, or allow users to update unofficially. Removing both options leaves users without a path forward.

Other OEMs may make bootloader unlocking more difficult, but removing it entirely disregards user choice and forces unnecessary upgrades. This is the first time I feel truly disappointed in Samsung, and it may be the last time I choose your devices.