Motorola used to be loved by many Android fans for one big reason: easy bootloader unlocking. This allowed users to flash custom ROMs, root their phones, and completely personalize their devices. But lately, things have changed — and not in a fun way.
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TL;DR
Motorola has quietly removed bootloader unlock support for several of its older devices. This means you can’t customize them anymore the way you used to. No more flashing ROMs or getting super user access. If you own one of these phones — sorry, you’re out of luck.
What’s a Bootloader Anyway?
Good question! Before we dive into the list, let’s break it down.
The bootloader is a small bit of software that runs when your phone starts up. It checks for secure software and launches the Android system. But if it’s unlocked, it lets you do whatever you want — like installing custom ROMs, root access, or even using a completely new OS.
Enthusiasts love this. It gives total control.
Manufacturers? Not so much. 😬
Why Motorola Stopped Allowing Unlocks
Motorola used to make it super easy to unlock bootloaders. They even had a dedicated unlock page. Fans appreciated it. But times have changed.
There’s been a push for more security. Also, carriers don’t like it when users mess with their devices. Sometimes, a messed up unlock can lead to more support calls — and that costs money.
Motorola hasn’t said much about why they’re shutting this down. But users started noticing that phones which used to be eligible are now rejected when they try to unlock.
How Bootloader Unlocking Used to Work
Easy peasy:
- You’d go to Motorola’s unlock page.
- Check if your phone is eligible.
- Enable Developer Options.
- Use a few commands to get a unique code.
- Submit the code and receive an unlock key.
Done!
But now? That page gives an error for several phones.
List of Devices That No Longer Qualify
This list is based on user reports and community feedback. Motorola doesn’t post an official list, so users tested devices one by one.
Here are some of the most commonly mentioned ones:
- Moto G6
- Moto G6 Play
- Moto Z3 Play
- Moto X4
- Motorola One
- Motorola One Power
- Motorola One Vision
- Motorola One Action
Some users also mentioned the Moto E5 and Moto G7 Play.
It’s important to note: even if you unlocked in the past, the same device might not be eligible now — especially if it’s a different model or carrier variant.
What About Newer Motorola Devices?
Well, it’s a mixed bag.
Many of the newer Moto phones like the Moto G Power (2022) or the Razr series are not unlockable either. In fact, it looks like Motorola is slowly removing the option for almost all consumer-grade devices.
The ones that sometimes can be unlocked? They’re usually the factory unlocked models sold directly by Motorola and not tied to any carrier.
Can You Still Check If Your Phone Qualifies?
Yes, sort of.
Go to the Motorola Bootloader Unlock page. Follow the instructions to get your device ID and paste it into the checker.
If it says it’s not eligible — that’s it. There’s no workaround (at least, not an easy one).
Carrier Versions = Bad News
Fun fact: most of the phones that lost unlock support are carrier-branded.
Especially phones from:
- Verizon
- AT&T
- Sprint
Even some factory unlocked phones have disabled unlocking after software updates. It’s a bummer.
Why This Matters
If you like customizing your phone, rooting it, or installing LineageOS — you’re out of luck if your device is on the no-unlock list. Locked bootloaders mean:
- No custom ROMs
- No rooting for advanced tweaks
- No removing bloatware the deep way
- Limited control over your own $300+ device
Any Way Around the Lock?
Some people suggest unofficial tools or hacks. But here’s the thing:
- They rarely work on newer Motorola phones.
- They often require risky procedures.
- If something goes wrong, you might hard-brick your phone for good.
Not fun, right?
And forget going to Motorola customer support. They usually won’t help with anything even slightly related to bootloader unlocking.
What Can You Do Now?
If you’ve got one of these locked-down phones, your choices are limited. But here’s what you can do:
- Accept the stock experience and make peace with it.
- Next time, buy a phone that officially supports bootloader unlocking.
- Consider buying a Pixel phone — they’re the most unlock-friendly phones around.
Final Thoughts
The Motorola many of us knew and loved — the one with tinker-friendly devices — has changed.
Locked bootloaders on older phones, fewer unlockable models, and an almost-silent phaseout of an enthusiast feature hurts. A lot of tech fans are sad to see it go.
If you care about freedom on your phone, double-check unlock policies before buying your next device. Always.
Stay safe, tinker smart, and may your next phone be one big hackable playground!