No Android smartphone is safe from the community of developers, not even the recently launched Google Pixel and Pixel XL, as root images and the bootloader unlock for Verizon models are now available for download.
Needless to say, that's not a bad thing at all.
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, it should be pointed out that the new Phone by Google is not like the Nexus lineup when it comes to rooting and modding, as the Mountain View company sort of took a similar route as other brands — rolling out a device targeted at the average consumer instead of power users.
That's why some Android aficionados were a bit worried about whether or not they'll be able to thoroughly customize the Pixel and Pixel XL, but only after a few days since the handsets launched, their troubles have been put to rest.
Pixel And Pixel XL Root Is Alive And Well Thanks To Chainfire
The mind behind the Pixel root is none other than Chainfire, and they developed a "systemless" root.
"The images for the Pixels need to be 'fastboot boot'ed, not flashed. After a few minutes (have patience) and a couple of (automatic) reboots, Android should boot fully rooted. Read the README in the ZIP," they say.
Of course, the required images and tools are now up for download, and they're available via their Google+ post.
SunShine Team Brightens Up The Day With dePixel8 For Bootloader Unlocking
Chainfire's approach to rooting the Pixel needs an unlocked bootloader, and that spells a problem for those who got their smartphones from Verizon.
However, the SunShine team's dePixel8 tool makes quick work of that conundrum no problemo.
"Our software works by forcefully enabling bootloader unlocking, it does not automatically unlock the bootloader. After using dePixel8, your device will reboot into bootloader mode. You then need to run the 'fastboot oem unlock' command. This action will unlock the bootloader and wipe your user data," the developers say, providing a four-step guide on how to use it without a hitch.
Wrap-Up
For now, the root images and the dePixel8 tool will work, but there's no telling whether or not they'll still do the trick when Google launches the security update for the Pixel next month.
Another thing to keep in mind is that it's not sure whether rooted devices will get over-the-air updates from Google moving forward, and timely patches are arguably the biggest appeal of the Pixel smartphones.
Last but not least, rooting and hacking into a handset is not the easiest thing to do, and as a disclaimer of sorts, such processes can potentially brick a device.
Do you fancy rooting your Pixel or Pixel XL? If so, feel free to drop by our comments section below and let us know.
