🚫 Samsung One UI 8 May Permanently Block Bootloader Unlocking – A Major Shift for Galaxy Devices

Samsung’s upcoming One UI 8, based on Android 16, is already making headlines — not just for its new features, but for a move that’s raising serious concerns among developers and power users.

🔐 No More Bootloader Unlocking on Samsung One UI 8?

Samsung has quietly introduced a restriction in One UI 8 that appears to block bootloader unlocking by default. The change was first spotted in the latest updates for the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7, and also in the Galaxy S25 Ultra One UI 8 beta.

The usual “OEM Unlocking” toggle — which allows unlocking the bootloader — is missing from these models. Without it, installing custom ROMs, kernels, or mods becomes nearly impossible.

📲 What the Firmware Reveals

According to XDA Developers, a string found in the firmware confirms the change:

androidboot.other.locked=1

This suggests the bootloader is locked by default, and the option is being deliberately hidden — even in regions where unlocking was previously supported. Samsung may be applying this restriction globally, marking a significant shift from its past practices.

🤔 What Does This Mean for the Developer Community?

For regular users, this may not impact day-to-day usage. But for developers, tinkerers, and Android enthusiasts, this is a major limitation.

• Development of custom ROMs for Galaxy devices may decline.
• Older supported models like Galaxy S23 and S22 might also face unlocking restrictions.
• Community-driven ports (e.g., Android 15 on the Galaxy S7) may disappear.

Samsung’s extensive software support — often 4 years or more — has already lowered the demand for third-party ROMs. However, locking the bootloader removes the option for long-term software life after official support ends.

📉 A Shift Away from Developer-Friendly Policies?

Samsung has not yet confirmed this bootloader policy change. It's unclear if:

• This applies to all upcoming Galaxy devices.
• Older phones will also lose the unlock option.
• This restriction is temporary (beta-related) or permanent.

If enforced, this could cause Samsung’s custom development scene to shrink even further, particularly for those relying on unofficial firmware updates to extend device life.

📌 

The move to block bootloader unlocking in Samsung One UI 8 is a significant change. While it may enhance device security and protect warranties, it also risks isolating the Android developer community that has supported the brand over the years.

We’re still waiting for an official response from Samsung. Until then, developers and power users should proceed with caution when updating to One UI 8 on supported models.

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