One user on XDA described this approach as “immediately turning on developer then going quickly to system” after a factory reset, and it allowed them to enable OEM unlocking.
How to Unlock Bootloader Without SIM Card: A Complete Guide Unlocking a bootloader is often the first step for Android enthusiasts looking to install custom ROMs, gain root access, or personalize their device's software. While many manufacturers traditionally require a SIM card for verification during this process—most notably —it is often possible to bypass this requirement. Understanding Bootloader vs. SIM Unlocking
Warning: Unlocking a device bootloader may void warranty, erase all data, disable some device features (like DRM-protected codecs, secure wallet/biometrics), and can brick the device if done incorrectly. The exact steps and availability vary by manufacturer and model. Assume responsibility for backups and risk.
Install the specific USB drivers for your phone brand (e.g., Google, Samsung, or Xiaomi drivers) so your PC can communicate with the device in bootloader mode.
Connect your phone to the PC while holding both the and Volume Down buttons simultaneously. This forces the device into BROM (Boot ROM) mode.
Carriers often restrict bootloader unlocking on financed or network-locked devices to prevent users from bypassing network restrictions.
E. Carrier-locked bootloader alternatives
Pixel phones are the easiest to
If the option is greyed out, ensure you are connected to the internet and wait a few minutes for the system to update its status.
Post-unlock steps
While many manufacturers artificially require a SIM card for bootloader unlocking, it’s often possible to bypass—especially on devices with MediaTek chips, older Android versions, or unlocked bootloader policies (Pixel, Moto, OnePlus). For locked-down brands like Xiaomi or Samsung, a dummy SIM is the simplest solution.
You do need a SIM card to unlock a bootloader. The primary requirement is a data connection (Wi-Fi is sufficient) for the initial "OEM Unlock" toggle check, and a USB cable/PC for the final unlocking commands.
This is advanced and carries a higher risk of "bricking" your device if done incorrectly. Critical Reminders
A common misconception among new enthusiasts is that a mobile network connection (via a SIM card) is required to interface with the carrier or manufacturer servers to unlock a bootloader. While a SIM card is necessary for "SIM Unlocking" (removing carrier network restrictions), it is almost never required for "Bootloader Unlocking" (unlocking the software partition to allow custom code).
Officially, no. As one XDA Recognized Contributor put it: “Without a Sim it is not possible officially. Maybe with a paid service that will cost more than a sim card.”
The SIM does need to be in the phone when you perform the actual unlock on your computer. Method 2: Bypassing Xiaomi’s SIM Requirement
Many Android devices—such as Google Pixel, OnePlus, and older Motorola or Sony phones—do not require carrier or SIM verification to authorize bootloader unlocking. They only require an active Wi-Fi connection and a few toggles within the Android operating system. Step 1: Enable Developer Options and OEM Unlocking