Unlocking the bootloader of your Google Pixel 7 is a crucial step if you want to take full control of your device and explore its full potential. By unlocking the bootloader, you gain the ability to install custom ROMs, root your device, and perform other advanced modifications. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of unlocking the bootloader on your Google Pixel 7.
Before You Begin
Before diving into the unlocking process, there are a few things you need to take care of:
- Backup Your Data: Unlocking the bootloader will erase all the data on your device. So, it’s essential to back up your important files, photos, and any other data you don’t want to lose.
- Install ADB and Fastboot Tools: You’ll need to have ADB and Fastboot tools installed on your computer. These tools allow you to communicate with your device and issue commands. If you haven’t installed them yet, refer to our tutorial on how to install ADB and Fastboot tools.
- Enable Developer Mode: To unlock the bootloader, you need to enable Developer Mode on your Google Pixel 7. Go to the “About Phone” page in the Settings app and tap on the device build number seven to eight times. This will enable Developer Mode on your device.
Enabling OEM Unlocking
Once you’ve enabled Developer Mode, follow these steps to enable OEM unlocking:
- Open the Settings app on your Google Pixel 7.
- Scroll down and tap on “System.”
- Tap on “Developer options.”
- Look for 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.
Enabling OEM unlocking is a crucial step as it grants permission to unlock the bootloader using fastboot commands.
Booting into Fastboot Mode
With OEM unlocking enabled, you’re now ready to boot your Google Pixel 7 into Fastboot Mode:
- Power off your Google Pixel 7.
- Press and hold the Power button to open the device’s menu.
- Tap on the “Restart” option to restart your phone.
- While your phone is restarting, press and hold the Volume Down button until the phone boots up.
Once your device boots up, you’ll see the Fastboot Mode screen, indicating that you’re ready to proceed with the bootloader unlocking process.
Unlocking the Bootloader
To unlock the bootloader of your Google Pixel 7, follow these steps:
- Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open a command prompt, Windows PowerShell, or terminal on your computer. Make sure you open it in the same folder where you have installed ADB and Fastboot tools.
- In the command prompt, navigate to the folder where ADB and Fastboot tools are installed.
- Type the command
fastboot devices
and hit Enter. This command checks if your device is properly connected to the computer. If you see a device listed, it means your device is connected. - If your device is not listed, make sure it is connected correctly, and you have the proper USB drivers installed on your PC.
- Once your device is listed, enter the command
fastboot flashing unlock
and hit Enter. - You’ll see a confirmation message on your device asking if you want to unlock the bootloader. Use the Volume Up or Volume Down buttons to highlight the “Unlock the bootloader” option, and then press the Power button to confirm.
- Your device will reboot, and the bootloader unlocking process will begin. This process may take a few minutes.
- After the bootloader is unlocked, your device will reboot into the Android operating system.
Congratulations! You have successfully unlocked the bootloader of your Google Pixel 7. It’s important to note that unlocking the bootloader will wipe all the data on your device. After the reboot, you can go through the Android setup process and restore your data from the backup you created earlier.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any difficulties during the bootloader unlocking process, here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:
- Make sure you have installed the latest version of ADB and Fastboot tools.
- Double-check that your device is properly connected to your computer via a USB cable.
- Ensure that you have the correct USB drivers installed on your PC.
- Restart your device and try the unlocking process again.
- If the issue persists, seek help from online forums or contact Google support for further assistance.
Conclusion
Unlocking the bootloader of your Google Pixel 7 opens up a world of possibilities for customization and advanced modifications. With the step-by-step guide provided above, you can confidently unlock the bootloader and unleash the full potential of your device. Remember to proceed with caution and back up your data before proceeding. Happy modding!
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.
Using Android SDK Platform tools installed
connected Google Pixel 7Pro via USB to PC
Developer tools enabled and USB debugging enabled
verified device is connected via command
but when I enter fastboot flashing unlock and hit enter it just says waiting for device (no response at all)
Have rebooted phone and tried again with same issue. What now?