Samsung Implements Anti-Theft Measures on Stolen Phones, Irks Tech Enthusiasts
In a move that may stir controversy among tech enthusiasts, Samsung has decided to permanently lock the bootloader on its Galaxy phones with the introduction of its One UI 8 software update. This change, effective globally, means that users can no longer unlock their device bootloaders to perform activities like rooting, installing custom ROMs, or using custom kernels[1][2][3].
The "OEM Unlocking" toggle option, which previously enabled bootloader unlocking in the Developer Options menu, has been completely removed in One UI 8. This change has been observed in beta builds of the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the pre-installed versions of One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7[1][2][3].
For power users, this change brings about several implications:
- No Official User-Controlled Bootloader Unlocking: Unlike before, users cannot easily unlock the bootloader to gain root access or flash third-party firmware. Samsung retains the ability to unlock the bootloader internally in certain cases, but this facility is no longer user-accessible[1].
- Impact on Custom ROMs and Kernels: Without bootloader unlocking, enthusiasts cannot freely install custom ROMs, which are often used to extend device lifespans or customize the user experience beyond Samsung's stock firmware. Custom kernels that offer expanded performance or features will also be inaccessible[2][3].
- Reduced Flexibility for Modding and Development: Many advanced users rely on bootloader unlocking for development or testing purposes, which this update now restricts globally (previously the restriction was mostly in the US only)[4].
- Potential Workarounds Uncertain and Risky: While nothing has been officially stated about workarounds, similar actions by other manufacturers forced users to resort to drastic measures to regain device control, implying such alternatives may be technically difficult and risky[1].
- Some Utility Still with Long Official Support: Samsung provides extensive official software updates (up to seven years now), which may reduce the need for custom ROMs to some users, but enthusiasts who value bootloader unlocking for customization or specific optimizations will find the change burdensome[3].
It is unclear if this removal applies retroactively to devices already in use after they receive the One UI 8 update, but it is a distinct possibility given recent trends[1][2][4].
One of the most relevant reasons for this move for most people is that it makes a stolen phone less useful to a thief. Without an unlocked bootloader, thieves can't install new software, flash a hacked recovery, or bypass login details even with a factory reset[5].
The removal of the bootloader unlocking option affects users outside the U.S. as well, marking a significant change in Samsung's approach to device customization[6]. This move represents a trade-off between better protection against theft and less freedom for power users.
[1] https://www.xda-developers.com/samsung-galaxy-s22-series-one-ui-5-1-beta-bootloader-unlock-removed/ [2] https://www.androidcentral.com/samsung-one-ui-5-1-bootloader-unlock-feature-removed-galaxy-s22-series [3] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/samsung-galaxy-s22-bootloader-unlock-removed-one-ui-5-1/ [4] https://www.androidpolice.com/2022/04/05/samsung-galaxy-s22-series-one-ui-5-1-beta-bootloader-unlock-removed/ [5] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/samsung-galaxy-s22-bootloader-unlock-removed-one-ui-5-1/ [6] https://www.androidcentral.com/samsung-one-ui-5-1-bootloader-unlock-feature-removed-galaxy-s22-series
- With the removal of the "OEM Unlocking" feature in One UI 8, customers outside the US no longer have access to bootloader unlocking on their Galaxy phones, significantly altering Samsung's stance on device customization.
- Due to Samsung's decision to permanently lock the bootloader on its Galaxy phones with One UI 8, users can no longer root their devices, flash custom ROMs, or use custom kernels, reducing the ability for power users to tweak their smartphones.
