Nokia 7.2 has unlockable bootloader (Update: Not for long, 'fix' incoming)

Update, November 4, 2019 (10:15 AM ET): It turns out the Nokia 7.2 bootloader is definitely unlockable, as is the bootloader of the Nokia 6.2. However, HMD Global is pushing out a “fix” for this “problem” which it claims was an “inadvertent miss” in its quality control.

Check out the full statement below, obtained by Nokiamob.net (via XDA Developers):

There is no change to our policy of allowing unlocking bootloader on Nokia phones. This was an inadvertent miss in the case of Nokia 7.2 and we will be issuing a maintenance release to remove the option. We regret the inconvenience and would like to remind our consumers that unlocking the bootloader will lead to the warranty on their Nokia phone becoming void.

If you already unlocked your Nokia 7.2 bootloader, you’re in quite the predicament now. If you accept this future OTA update, there’s a possibility it could brick your phone. Therefore, you’ll need to either stick with your current version of Android and simply not update the software or only update it through unofficial channels.

If you’re still interested in unlocking the bootloader on your Nokia 7.2 or 6.2, do it quickly, as this OTA update could roll out any day now.

Original article, October 31, 2019 (02:00 PM ET): HMD Global’s revival of the Nokia brand has gone exceptionally well so far. However, the custom ROM community has been miffed by how no new Nokia devices have unlockable bootloaders. It appears that’s not the case anymore, though, as the Nokia 7.2 bootloader has allegedly been unlocked.

According to Techmesto, not only is the Nokia 7.2 bootloader unlockable but it’s incredibly easy to unlock by following the usual steps: turning on developer options, enabling OEM bootloader unlocking, and then using ADB and fastboot to push the usual unlocking commands.

Allegedly, you don’t even need an unlock code to finish off the process.

As proof, Techmesto posted the below image which appears to be a Nokia 7.2 with an unlocked bootloader:

With an unlocked bootloader, Android developers can create custom ROMs for devices, such as the popular Lineage OS. Since all other HMD Global devices with the Nokia brand name come with fully-locked bootloaders and no option to unlock them, the custom ROM community mostly ignores Nokia devices.

It’s possible the Nokia 7.2 represents a turnaround of sorts for HMD Global. Or, it’s also possible that this is all a mistake and HMD will soon push an update to lock the Nokia 7.2 bootloader to match all its other devices.

Either way, if you have a Nokia 7.2 at the moment it is likely unlockable following the steps here. If you unlock it now it will stay unlocked, even if HMD pushes out a patch in the future.