How to unlock Google Pixel 3 bootloader

Unlocking smartphone bootloaders isn’t as common now, but it’s still possible for those who like to modify their devices. You can unlock Google Pixel 3 bootloader, even with its Titan M security chip.

Reasons to unlock your bootloader include flashing factory images, gaining root access, installing custom recovery and ROMs or rescuing your device from a boot-loop or soft-brick.

Be aware that Google doesn’t recommend unlocking bootloader because it can compromise your security. Additionally, unlocking Pixel 3 bootloader wipes all user data, so you’ll need to reinstall all your apps and contacts.

Preparing to Unlock Your Pixel 3 Bootloader

To unlock bootloader on your Google Pixel 3: you need to complete few steps involving software installation and phone settings adjustments. Here’s detailed guide to help you through process:

1. Download and Set Up Necessary Files

Download Android Debug Bridge (adb) and Fastboot:

• You need adb and fastboot tools to communicate with your phone. Download the appropriate zip file for Windows, macOS or Linux.
• Extract the zip file to location that’s easy to find, like your desktop or specific folder on your computer (e.g., C:\adb).

2. Prepare Your Pixel 3

Enable Developer Options:

• On your Pixel 3- go to Settings > System > About phone.
• Find the Build Number at the bottom and tap it multiple times until you see a message saying you’re now a developer.

Activate USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking:

• Navigate to Settings > System > Developer options.
• Turn on USB Debugging to allow adb to communicate with your phone.
• Enable OEM Unlocking to permit bootloader unlocking.

Set USB Mode to File Transfer:

• Connect your Pixel 3 to your computer using USB Type-C cable.
• Pull down Notification bar, select USB preferences, and set USB mode to File Transfer.

3. Unlock Bootloader

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• On your computer- go to folder where you extracted adb and fastboot.
• Open a command prompt window. On Windows 10- hold Shift and right-click in the folder, then select “Open PowerShell window here” or “Open command window here” for older versions.

Verify adb Connection:

• Type adb devices and press Enter. If your Pixel 3 is connected properly, it should show up in list.
• If your device is listed as unauthorized, accept USB debugging prompt on your Pixel 3 and run command again.

Boot into Bootloader Mode:

• In command prompt- type adb reboot bootloader and press Enter.
• Your Pixel 3 will reboot into bootloader mode, displaying fastboot screen.

Unlock the Bootloader:

• Enter command fastboot flashing unlock in command prompt.
• A warning screen will appear on your phone detailing the risks. Press power button to confirm after highlighting “Unlock bootloader” with volume buttons.

Reboot Your Phone:

• After confirming, your phone will reboot into fastboot mode and then restart. Bootloader will now be unlocked.
• Press Enter after typing fastboot reboot into command prompt.

Your Pixel 3 will perform factory reset, erasing all user data. You’ll need to set up your phone again from scratch. Note that every time you boot your phone, you’ll see security warning about unlocked bootloader. Congratulations, your Pixel 3 bootloader is now unlocked!

• How to Unlock Your iPhone with an Apple Watch
• How to unlock any T-Mobile phone
• How to unlock Samsung phone

Conclusion: Unlock Google Pixel 3 bootloader

Unlocking bootloader on your Google Pixel 3 lets you customize your phone or fix serious issues, even with Titan M security chip.

But, be cautious: Google warns that unlocking bootloader can compromise your phone’s security and will erase all your data, so you’ll need to set up your phone again from scratch.

If you’re okay with these risks, follow the steps to download the necessary tools, prepare your phone and use commands to unlock bootloader. Afterward, your phone will reboot and you’ll see a security warning each time you start it up.