It's fantastic that you're looking to gain more control over your Verizon Pixel! Unfortunately, I need to start with some crucial information that will significantly impact your journey.
It's generally not possible to OEM unlock a Verizon Pixel phone.
Yes, you read that right. Verizon, in its efforts to control the software experience and prevent users from flashing custom ROMs or rooting, locks down the bootloader on their Pixel devices, and this lock is exceptionally difficult, if not impossible, to bypass for most users. While some older Pixel 1 and XL models had specific, often finicky, workarounds, for later generations (Pixel 2 onwards), Verizon's locking mechanism has become much more robust.
Why is this the case?
Verizon, like some other carriers, implements a deeply embedded lock on the bootloader of the phones they sell. This differs from a simple "carrier lock" (which prevents you from using the phone on another network until it's paid off or a certain period passes). An OEM unlock, or more accurately, a bootloader unlock, allows you to flash custom firmware, install custom recoveries (like TWRP), and gain root access, fundamentally changing the operating system. Verizon's policy prevents this.
What does this mean for you?
If you have a Verizon Pixel, it's highly probable that the "OEM unlocking" option in your developer settings will be greyed out and inaccessible, even if your phone is fully paid off and carrier-unlocked.
Given this significant hurdle, this guide will focus on understanding why this is the case, what limited options might exist for very specific older models, and what you can do if you absolutely need an unlocked Pixel.
Understanding the Landscape: Verizon Pixels and Bootloader Locks
Before we dive into any potential (and often historical) workarounds, it's vital to understand the fundamental difference between a Pixel purchased directly from Google and one from Verizon.
Unlocked Pixel (from Google) vs. Verizon Pixel
Google Store Unlocked Pixels: These phones are designed by Google with the intention of allowing users to unlock the bootloader. The "OEM unlocking" option is readily available in Developer Options, and with a simple fastboot command, you can unlock it. This provides the freedom for enthusiasts and developers to customize their devices.
Verizon Pixel: These devices come with a pre-locked bootloader that Verizon has heavily secured. The OEM unlocking toggle is intentionally disabled in the software, and there is no official or widely known method provided by Verizon to enable it. This effectively prevents users from flashing custom ROMs, installing custom recoveries, or easily gaining root access.
OEM Unlocking vs. Bootloader Unlocking
It's important to clarify these terms, as they are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings:
OEM Unlocking (in Developer Options): This is a software switch within your phone's Android settings. When enabled, it allows the bootloader to be unlocked. It doesn't unlock the bootloader itself, but rather grants permission for the next step.
Bootloader Unlocking (via Fastboot): This is the actual process of issuing commands via your computer (using
fastboot) to unlock the bootloader after the OEM unlocking switch has been enabled. This is the step that actually wipes your device and allows for custom software to be flashed.
On Verizon Pixels, the problem lies with the first step: the OEM unlocking toggle is greyed out and cannot be enabled. Without this, you cannot proceed to the fastboot flashing unlock command.
Step 1: Engage with Reality – Is Your Verizon Pixel Even Unlockable?
Alright, let's start with some hard truth. Before you invest any time or effort, let's confirm whether your specific Verizon Pixel might fall into the rare category of models where unlocking was ever possible, or if it's simply a non-starter.
Ask yourself: What Pixel model do I have, and when did I purchase it?
If you have a Pixel 2 or newer from Verizon: The chances of OEM unlocking are virtually zero. Verizon implemented stricter bootloader locks from the Pixel 2 onwards, making widely available workarounds ineffective. Most online discussions and expert opinions confirm this.
If you have an original Pixel or Pixel XL from Verizon: There were some historical exploits (like "dePixel8") that allowed unlocking for these specific models, particularly if they were running older Android versions and hadn't received certain security updates. However, these exploits are largely patched, and finding a device in that specific state today is highly unlikely. Even if you do, the process is complex and not guaranteed.
If you determine your device is a Pixel 2 or newer from Verizon, please understand that the following "steps" are largely for historical context and to illustrate the impossibility for most modern Verizon Pixels. There is no reliable, current method to OEM unlock these devices.
Step 2: (For Historical Pixel 1/XL Users Only) Checking the "OEM Unlocking" Toggle
This step is primarily for those with the original Pixel or Pixel XL, hoping they might be on an older software version where a loophole existed. For all other Verizon Pixel users, this will likely be a quick confirmation that the option is unavailable.
Sub-heading: Enabling Developer Options
To even see the "OEM unlocking" toggle, you need to enable Developer Options on your phone.
Open Settings: Navigate to your phone's "Settings" app.
Go to "About phone": Scroll down and tap on "About phone."
Tap Build Number Repeatedly: Find "Build number" and tap on it rapidly seven times. You'll see a toast notification counting down, and then a message saying, "You are now a developer!"
Go Back to Settings: Return to the main "Settings" menu.
Access Developer Options: You should now see a new option, typically under "System," called "Developer options." Tap on it.
Sub-heading: Inspecting the "OEM unlocking" Toggle
Once in Developer Options:
Locate "OEM unlocking": Scroll through the Developer Options until you find the "OEM unlocking" toggle.
Observe its State:
If it's greyed out and cannot be toggled on: This is the most common scenario for Verizon Pixels, especially newer ones. It means Verizon has hard-locked the bootloader, and there's no official way to enable this option. At this point, for most modern Verizon Pixels, your journey to OEM unlock effectively ends here.
If it's toggleable (and you have an original Pixel/XL with an older firmware): Congratulations, you've found a rare exception! Proceed with extreme caution to the next steps, but be aware that the success rate is still low, and you risk bricking your device if not done precisely.
Step 3: (Highly Unlikely & Risky) Attempting Historical Workarounds for Pixel 1/XL
WARNING: These methods are outdated, involve flashing older firmware, and carry a significant risk of bricking your device if not followed precisely. They are not recommended for the average user and are presented here purely for informational completeness for those with original Pixel/XL devices running specific older software versions. Proceed at your own risk. For Pixel 2 and newer, these methods will not work.
This section is a deep dive into the historical "dePixel8" and similar exploits that targeted the original Pixel/XL. If your OEM unlocking option is still greyed out, do not attempt these.
Sub-heading: Prerequisites for a (Potentially) Unlockable Pixel 1/XL
Before even considering these advanced steps, ensure you have:
A Verizon Pixel/Pixel XL (original generation) on specific, older Android versions. (e.g., Android 7.0/7.1, potentially very early Android 8.0 builds before exploits were patched).
No SIM card inserted in the phone. This was a crucial step in many of the old workarounds, as the presence of a Verizon SIM on first boot-up would often trigger the bootloader lock.
Android SDK Platform Tools (ADB & Fastboot) installed on your computer.
Necessary USB drivers for your Pixel installed on your computer.
A full backup of all your data. Unlocking the bootloader will factory reset your device.
A non-Verizon SIM card (optional, but sometimes helped).
Sub-heading: The General Concept of Older Exploits (Not a Detailed Guide)
Older exploits, like dePixel8, typically leveraged a vulnerability in the initial setup process or specific software versions to temporarily enable the OEM unlocking toggle before the Verizon-specific locking mechanisms fully engaged. The process often involved:
Factory Resetting the device.
Booting up without a Verizon SIM card. Some methods suggested booting with no SIM at all, while others recommended a non-Verizon SIM.
Skipping initial setup steps (Wi-Fi, Google account login).
Enabling Developer Options immediately.
Rapidly attempting to enable "OEM unlocking." This was often a race against the clock before Verizon's software could re-lock the option.
Connecting to Wi-Fi and quickly navigating to a website (e.g., Google.com) in Chrome. This was a bizarre but reported step in some methods, seemingly to trigger something that briefly enabled the toggle.
Uninstalling the "com.android.phone" package via ADB. This was a critical step in some bypasses to prevent the phone from "calling home" to Verizon and locking the bootloader.
Rebooting and quickly checking the OEM unlocking toggle again.
Again, these are highly specific, likely patched, and not guaranteed to work even if you found a perfectly conditioned original Pixel/XL. For any Pixel 2 or newer, these simply won't bypass the Verizon lock.
Step 4: Accepting Reality and Considering Alternatives
If you've reached this point with a modern Verizon Pixel, the harsh reality is that direct OEM unlocking is likely not possible. So, what are your alternatives if you want the freedom of an unlocked bootloader?
Sub-heading: Buying a Google Store Unlocked Pixel
The most straightforward solution: If you require an unlocked bootloader for custom ROMs, rooting, or other advanced modifications, the most reliable path is to purchase a Pixel directly from the Google Store (or another retailer selling the "unlocked by Google" version). These devices are not subject to Verizon's bootloader restrictions.
Trade-in considerations: You might consider trading in your Verizon Pixel for a Google Store unlocked model. Factor in its resale value, which might be lower due to the bootloader lock.
Sub-heading: Using Your Verizon Pixel as-is
For standard usage: If your primary goal isn't deep system modification (like custom ROMs or rooting), and you're happy with the stock Android experience and Verizon's network, then your Verizon Pixel will function perfectly fine as a daily driver. It will still receive official software updates from Google (though sometimes slightly delayed by Verizon's testing) and can be carrier-unlocked for use on other networks after meeting Verizon's device payment or tenure requirements.
Carrier Unlock vs. Bootloader Unlock: Remember the distinction. A Verizon Pixel can be carrier unlocked (meaning you can use it with other SIM cards), but this does not mean its bootloader can be OEM unlocked.
Step 5: (Advanced, Not Recommended for Most) Exploring Potential Future Exploits (Highly Unlikely)
It's important to state that this section is purely speculative and highly improbable for consumer-level users.
Sub-heading: The Nature of Bootloader Exploits
In the world of Android modding, new exploits sometimes emerge that bypass carrier or manufacturer bootloader locks. However, these are:
Rare: Discovering such exploits requires significant technical expertise and often vulnerabilities at a very low level of the device's software.
Short-lived: Once discovered, manufacturers (Google) and carriers (Verizon) are usually quick to patch these vulnerabilities with software updates, rendering the exploit useless.
Risky: Using unverified exploits can lead to permanently bricking your device.
Sub-heading: Where to (Theoretically) Look for Such Information
If a truly groundbreaking exploit were to be discovered for modern Verizon Pixels, it would almost certainly be discussed and documented on highly technical forums dedicated to Android development and rooting.
XDA Developers Forum: This is the go-to resource for Android enthusiasts. Look for dedicated forums for your specific Pixel model. Be prepared for highly technical discussions and a strong likelihood of finding confirmation that Verizon Pixels are un-unlockable.
Do not trust random websites or unofficial tools claiming to easily "OEM unlock" your Verizon Pixel. These are often scams or contain malicious software.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my Pixel is a Verizon model?
You can usually check the model number in Settings > About phone. Verizon models often have a specific model number or a "VZW" designation in some software builds. You can also sometimes tell by pre-installed Verizon apps (though Pixels have minimal bloatware) or the original packaging. If you bought it directly from Verizon, it's a Verizon model.
How to carrier unlock a Verizon Pixel?
Verizon's policy states that devices are automatically unlocked 60 days after purchase if certain conditions are met (e.g., fully paid off). You do not need to contact them to request a carrier unlock in most cases.
How to know if my Pixel's bootloader is unlocked?
Reboot your phone and pay close attention to the boot screen. An unlocked bootloader will often display a warning message, such as "Your device software cannot be checked for corruption. Please lock the bootloader," or a similar warning during startup.
How to enable USB debugging on my Pixel?
Enable Developer Options (by tapping build number 7 times in About phone), then go into Developer Options and toggle on "USB debugging."
How to install ADB and Fastboot drivers?
Download the Android SDK Platform Tools from Google's official developer website. These tools include ADB and Fastboot. For drivers, Google provides universal USB drivers, or your PC might install them automatically when connecting your Pixel.
How to factory reset my Pixel?
Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Be sure to back up your data first!
How to flash a custom ROM on a Pixel?
This typically requires an unlocked bootloader, a custom recovery (like TWRP), and the custom ROM files. Since Verizon Pixels generally cannot be OEM unlocked, flashing custom ROMs is not possible.
How to root a Pixel?
Rooting also requires an unlocked bootloader and usually involves flashing Magisk or a similar rooting solution via a custom recovery. Again, this is generally not possible on Verizon Pixels.
How to bypass Google account verification (FRP) after a factory reset?
FRP (Factory Reset Protection) is a security feature. If you factory reset your device and it was logged into a Google account, you'll need to re-enter the credentials for that account to set up the phone again. There are no legitimate bypasses for FRP.
How to get security updates on a Verizon Pixel?
Verizon Pixels receive official over-the-air (OTA) security updates directly from Google, although sometimes Verizon may delay their release by a few days for their own testing and certifications.
