We spoke a few weeks ago about HTC unlocking bootloaders on all of their devices. The time has finally came where they have talked about it more as a “coming soon” than “its in discussion”. There is one thing HTC users need to take into account, it may void your warranty if you use it.
HTC’s Statement on Facebook August 3rd:
So how will this work? The Web tool, which will launch this month, requires that you register an account with a valid e-mail address and accept legal disclaimers that unlocking may void all or parts of your warranty. Then plug in your phone to a computer with the Android SDK loaded to retrieve a device identifier token, which you can then enter into the Web tool to receive a unique unlock key via e-mail. Finally, apply the key to your device and unlocking will be initiated on your phone.
HTC has listened to us all and will be making this tool available later this month:
**UPDATE 8/3/2011**
Since our last update, many of you have asked how the bootloader unlocking process will actually work, and in particular why HTC’s most recently released devices still have a locked bootloader. Rest assured we’re making progress toward our goal to roll out the first software updates in August to support unlocking for the global HTC Sensation, followed soon by the HTC Sensation 4G on T-Mobile and the HTC EVO 3D on Sprint. Because unlocking the bootloader provides extensive control over the device and modifications may cause operation, security and experience issues, new devices will continue to ship locked but will support user-initiated unlocking using a new Web-based tool.
So how will this work? The Web tool, which will launch this month, requires that you register an account with a valid e-mail address and accept legal disclaimers that unlocking may void all or parts of your warranty. Then plug in your phone to a computer with the Android SDK loaded to retrieve a device identifier token, which you can then enter into the Web tool to receive a unique unlock key via e-mail. Finally, apply the key to your device and unlocking will be initiated on your phone.
We’re excited to bring bootloader unlocking to developers and enthusiasts, and we feel this new Web tool will meet your needs and continue to provide customers with the best experience. Thanks to the community for supporting these efforts!
We look forward to having the ability to unlock bootloaders on our HTC devices and are happy that there is a manufacturer that looks out for the users and not just their bottom line. Although we do believe that more of us that are technical minded will look at HTC more thouroughly when choosing new devices to play with because of their caring attitude towards consumers.
That’s why I bought an HTC.