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Google‘s new Pixel phones have an unusual issue. Not all of them, but a few early buyers of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro have noticed that the devices have arrived with an unlocked bootloader. It’s unclear how this situation transpired, but the company is offering replacements to affected users.
Pixel 8 buyers report an unlocked bootloader out of the box
Smartphones usually arrive with a locked bootloader, which is a small piece of software responsible for booting or starting the device. It helps load the OS when the device is powered on. Unlocking the bootloader gives you root or OS-level access to the device and allows the installation of custom firmware. However, this voids the device’s warranty and compromises its security. Attackers may be able to steal your data.
An unlocked bootloader may also cause issues with apps and device components. For example, it killed the cameras on Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 3. However, despite all these risks, Google seems to have failed to ensure a locked bootloader for all retail units of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. A handful of users have confirmed receiving their shiny new phones with an unlocked bootloader. They are shown a warning message when setting up the device.
“The bootloader is unlocked and software integrity cannot be guaranteed. Any data stored on the device may be available to attackers. Do not store any sensitive data on the device,” the warning reads, according to a Pixel 8 Pro user affected by this issue. The user subsequently tried to set contactless payments on the device and encountered this error, “Your phone can’t make contactless payments as it doesn’t meet software standards.”
There are a few more reports on Reddit, though the issue doesn’t appear to be widespread. Nonetheless, this is unusual and users are understandably worried. While anyone can lock the bootloader on their own using a computer and an ADB connection to the phone, not everyone has the technical know-how of this fix. Thankfully, Google isn’t leaving users on their own. It’s replacing the Pixel 8 phones affected by this issue.
Reach out to Google’s support team to have your phone replaced
If your Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro arrived with an unlocked bootloader, you should quickly reach out to Google’s support team to have your phone replaced. You can report the issue by clicking this link. Once you have provided the necessary details, you should receive a call from the company. New Pixel 8 buyers are advised to be attentive when setting up the phone.