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In a sudden shock to the Android modding community, Samsung’s One UI 8, based on Android 16, is reportedly removing the bootloader option from Galaxy devices. The company has started rolling out the One UI 8 update. Still, as of writing, its availability is currently restricted to Galaxy foldable devices, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.
These foldable devices come with pre-installed One UI 8, and the latest update has enhanced users' experiences with the software. For a long time, Samsung has limited bootloader unlocking to its devices in the US; however, Galaxy users from other regions have still had the privilege to unlock it. This change marks a significant shift in Samsung’s policy toward user control and customization.
Reports from various sources have highlighted that 'OEM Unlocking,' a key feature for unlocking the process, has been removed from the developer settings.
Some sources have found a specific line in the bootloader’s code: androidboot.other.locked=1. This effectively hides the OEM Unlock option for the users on devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Fold 7.
Notably, this was previously implemented for US users. Still, this time, the code has been added to the One UI 8 firmware on non-US Samsung devices, indicating that this policy is no longer limited to the US but has become a global policy.
That’s not the end. There’s another part of this update. Reports indicate that the internal firmware of older Galaxy models, such as Galaxy S23 Ultra and S22 Ultra, reportedly auto-relocks previously unlocked bootloaders upon updating to One UI 8.
This demonstrates that this process is an active implementation and not just an omission of an option. However, at the time of writing, there’s no official statement from Samsung explaining this move.
Until the official statement is released explaining or justifying this move, it’s difficult to determine the exact reason for this firmware update globally. However, Samsung may be aiming for security hardening to reduce vulnerabilities by restricting root access, custom ROMs, or unintended system modifications.
While Android and One UI have always been renowned for maximum user freedom, Samsung is prioritizing security over customization.
The Samsung July update is really becoming a topic of discussion. Because this will affect power users who depend on bootloaders to install custom ROMs, gain root privileges, or extend the functional lifespan of devices via community firmware. Still, they are just a part of millions of Samsung users globally, and this change is to refine the entire section.
Samsung One UI 8 update is expected to bring a lot of important new tools. This move may also align with industry requests or regulatory demands. However, until the company clarifies its position, everything remains speculation only.
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This Samsung bootloader block marks a significant shift. After this update is rolled out, bootloader unlocking will be blocked globally on Galaxy devices. Previously unlocked ones will be automatically blocked after the update.
This move is expected to improve device security. Still, at the same time, it fundamentally limits the freedom of those who were significantly dependent on bootloader access for customization and extended utility.
Despite nothing being explained up to this point, it looks like this shift is likely to redefine what ‘power user’ means for Samsung devices. This transformation marks a swift shift from an open, mod-friendly environment to a restricted community locked behind company policies.
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