Unlocking the bootloader of your Samsung Galaxy A series device can open up a world of possibilities. It allows you to install non-Samsung code on your device, such as Magisk and TWRP, giving you the freedom to customize and optimize your smartphone experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of unlocking the bootloader on any device in the Samsung Galaxy A series.
What is Bootloader Unlocking?
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s clarify the difference between unlocking the bootloader and unlocking the SIM. Unlocking the SIM allows you to use your smartphone on different mobile carriers, while unlocking the bootloader enables you to install unofficial code on your device’s Android file system.
It’s important to note that unlocking the bootloader will result in a factory data reset, erasing all the data on your device. Make sure to back up any important files before proceeding with the unlocking process.
Step 1: Enable Developer Options
To begin the bootloader unlocking process, you need to enable the hidden Developer Options menu on your Samsung Galaxy device. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on “About phone.”
- Navigate to “Software information” and tap on it.
- Locate the “Build number” and tap it 7 to 10 times. You will see a message at the bottom of the screen that says, “Developer mode is enabled.”
- Go back to the main settings page.
- Scroll down to the bottom, and you will find the “Developer Options” menu just below the “About Phone” menu.
- Tap on “Developer Options” and find the option labeled “OEM unlocking.”
- Tap on the toggle next to “OEM unlocking” to enable it. A confirmation window will appear; tap on “Turn on” to enable OEM unlocking. This step is crucial and must be completed before proceeding further.
Note: If you don’t see the “OEM unlocking” toggle in the Developer Options menu, it means your device’s bootloader unlocking capability is blocked by your mobile carrier. In such cases, it may not be possible to unlock the bootloader of your device.
Step 2: Boot into Download Mode
Once you have enabled OEM unlocking, you can proceed to boot your Samsung Galaxy device into Download Mode. Follow these steps to enter Download Mode:
- Power off your device completely.
- Press and hold the volume up and volume down buttons simultaneously.
- While holding the volume buttons, insert a USB Type-C cable into the port at the bottom of your device.
- Your device will boot up to a blue screen.
- Press and hold the volume up button to initiate the bootloader unlock process.
- On the blue confirmation screen, press the volume up button again to confirm the bootloader unlock. Alternatively, you can press the volume down button to cancel or exit the process and boot back into Android.
- Shortly after pressing the volume up button, your device will reboot. You will see information on the screen indicating that your device’s bootloader has been unlocked.
Please note that the first boot after unlocking the bootloader may take longer than usual, as the device is performing a factory data reset. Be patient during this boot cycle and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device.
Step 3: Verifying Bootloader Unlock
After the bootloader unlocking process and the subsequent factory data reset, you need to verify that the bootloader has been successfully unlocked. To do this:
- Connect your device to a Wi-Fi network or a mobile data network.
- Go back to the Developer Options menu.
- You will notice that the “OEM unlocking” toggle is now grayed out, and underneath it, you will see the message “bootloader already unlocked.”
If you checked the Developer Options menu before connecting to the internet, you may not have seen the “bootloader already unlocked” message. It appears only after the device has been connected to the internet.
Congratulations! You have successfully unlocked the bootloader of your Samsung Galaxy A series device. Now, you can install unofficial code and customize your device to your heart’s content.
Conclusion
Unlocking the bootloader of your Samsung Galaxy A series device can be a game-changer, giving you the freedom to explore a wide range of customization options. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can unlock the bootloader and unleash the full potential of your device. Remember to proceed with caution, as unlocking the bootloader will result in a factory data reset. Always back up your data before attempting such modifications.
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.