Samsung blocks bootloader unlocking in One UI 8, restricting custom ROMs globally
Samsung’s latest One UI 8 update appears to prevent users outside the US from unlocking the bootloader on Galaxy devices, a feature previously allowed in select regions. The change, spotted in the software code for devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and S25 beta builds, sets a bootloader flag to “locked” by default. Bootloader access is essential for installing custom firmware and gaining deeper control over Android devices. Samsung has not yet commented on the policy shift.
This move marks a significant rollback of user freedom in device customization and could spark backlash among Android power users and developers.
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