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You cannot root a Pixel with a locked bootloader using the standard method. Root tools work by modifying boot-related software, and a locked bootloader refuses to run anything that is not signed by the device’s root of trust. Android’s documented route to modification therefore starts with unlocking the bootloader, and unlocking erases the phone. Neither the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) nor Google documents a way to root a locked Pixel.
Why a locked bootloader stops rooting
AOSP’s device-state documentation draws the line directly: “LOCKED devices prevent you from flashing new software to the device, whereas UNLOCKED devices allow modification.” (Android Open Source Project, Device state documentation.)
The restriction is enforced at boot. AOSP’s Verified Boot guidance says a locked device will only boot software signed by the device’s root of trust, and the Android bootloader overview describes the boot and recovery partitions being verified before the kernel runs. A rooted boot image is, by definition, software the manufacturer did not sign, so a locked device rejects it. Any guide that tells you to flash a patched image while the bootloader stays locked is describing a step the documented security model is designed to block.
What unlocking involves
Unlocking is the only route Android documents to modifying device partitions. AOSP notes that most Android devices ship with a locked bootloader and that a flashing unlock is needed before device partitions can be reflashed. The generic steps are below. Pixel menus and labels can differ by model and Android version, so confirm each screen on your own phone.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
- Back up everything first. Unlocking performs a factory reset, so photos, messages, and app data stored only on the phone will be lost.
- Enable Developer options. Go to Settings > About phone and tap Build number seven times.
- Turn on OEM unlocking. Go to Settings > System > Developer options and enable OEM unlocking. If the toggle is missing or greyed out, the device is not eligible to unlock in its current state (see the eligibility section below).
- Enter the bootloader. With the phone connected to a computer that has the Android platform tools installed, run
adb reboot bootloader. - Run the unlock command. Run
fastboot flashing unlock. The phone displays a warning on its own screen. Confirm it with the volume and power buttons as prompted. - Let the device reset. The phone wipes its data and reboots. Expect the first setup screens to appear again.
AOSP’s guidance says the unlock action displays a warning and performs a factory reset, and the state change itself requires on-device confirmation. Android treats the lock-to-unlock transition as a wipe for that reason.
What unlocking costs you
- All user data is erased. Google’s factory-image page states that installing a factory image erases all data, and unlocking triggers the same wipe.
- Apps are removed. Installed apps and their associated data can be uninstalled during the reset.
- Security is reduced. Google’s warning reads: “Warning: Installing a factory image will erase all data from your device, and unlocking the bootloader will make your device less secure.” (Google, Factory Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices.)
- Relocking is recommended afterward. Google’s factory-image page recommends relocking the bootloader after factory-image use once you are finished.
Alternatives that do not require unlocking
If your goal is to recover, reinstall, or update a Pixel rather than to modify it, Google documents two paths with different requirements.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Full OTA sideload
Google’s Pixel factory-image page describes a full OTA sideload as usually easier and safer than a factory image. It does not require unlocking the bootloader and does not wipe data. It is an update or recovery method, and it does not root the device. Use it when the phone needs an official update applied without changing its security state.
Factory image flashing
Flashing a factory image erases all data and, under the same Google guidance, requires an unlocked bootloader. Once the install is complete, Google recommends relocking. Because the process replaces the whole system, use it only when a full reinstall is the goal.
Verifying an official image
Google’s Pixel Binary Transparency documents factory-image authenticity metadata for Pixel 6 and newer devices. Checking this metadata helps confirm that an image you downloaded is the official build. It does not authorize rooting a locked device. Images from unofficial sites should not be treated as official unless they can be checked against that metadata.
Check eligibility before following any guide
Unlock eligibility is not a single rule for all Pixels. Confirm the following on your own device before starting:
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
- Model and generation. Instructions differ by model. Use the factory-image page for your exact Pixel.
- Carrier, region, and state. Carrier or regional restrictions can affect whether the OEM unlocking toggle appears or can be enabled.
- Anti-rollback instructions. Google’s factory-image page includes special anti-rollback instructions for certain Pixel models and updates. As of the version we reviewed, these include Pixel 10 family devices affected by the May 2026 release. Follow the instructions that match your model and build, and do not apply them to other Pixels.
Comparing your options
| Option | Bootloader state needed | Wipes data | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock use with no changes | Locked | No | Unmodified Android; no root |
| Full OTA sideload | Not required (works while locked) | No | Official update or recovery; no root |
| Factory image flash | Unlocked | Yes | Full reinstall; Google recommends relocking afterward |
| Unlock and modify (root) | Unlocked | Yes | Modification possible; security is reduced |
Only the last row produces a rooted device, and it is the only one that requires unlocking first.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
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