Samsung's imminent One UI 8 update may raise eyebrows within the community of custom ROM enthusiasts
New Samsung Update Locks Out Device Modifications on Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7
One UI 8, the latest software update from Samsung, has introduced a significant change that affects the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. The update removes the "OEM Unlocking" toggle from the developer options, effectively preventing users from unlocking the bootloader on these devices [1][2][3].
This change is global, applying to devices outside the U.S. where bootloader unlocking was previously accessible [2][3]. The new bootloader code line, , hides and disables the OEM Unlock option, blocking the initiation of the bootloader unlocking process [2][3].
The removal of the "OEM Unlocking" toggle has far-reaching implications for custom ROMs and device modding. With this change, users will no longer be able to install custom ROMs, kernels, or gain root access, as unlocking the bootloader is a fundamental first step for any such modifications [1][3][4]. This effectively ends support for modding on new Samsung flagships like the Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 running One UI 8, tightening Samsung’s control over their devices' software environments [4].
The modding community, which often extends device lifespan and customization, faces a significant setback with this change [4]. Android power users and developers who rely on deep-level tweaks, such as custom ROMs, custom kernels, and root access, may also be impacted [5].
The XDA Forum post written by SammyGuru further discusses the implications of One UI 8's changes on device modding, suggesting that it may signal tighter control over what users can tweak under the hood on newer Galaxy flagships [6].
In summary, with One UI 8, Samsung has significantly restricted or altogether blocked the possibility of custom ROMs, rooting, and other bootloader-dependent modifications globally [1][2][3][4].
[1] The removal of the bootloader unlock option in One UI 8 is likely to affect recent flagship Galaxy devices worldwide. [2] A new boot configuration line, androidboot.other.locked=1, is hiding the "OEM Unlock" toggle in settings. [3] The OEM Unlocking option is also missing on international Galaxy devices, suggesting bootloader access may now be fully blocked worldwide. [4] Custom ROM installation and kernel work may be impossible on newer Galaxy flagships due to the removal of the bootloader unlock option in One UI 8. [5] The change in One UI 8's bootloader lock may signify tighter control over device modifications for newer Galaxy flagships. [6] The XDA Forum post was written by SammyGuru.
Smartphone enthusiasts may find it challenging to modify their Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 with the latest One UI 8 update from Samsung, as the update restricts the ability to unlock the bootloader, thus preventing the installation of custom ROMs and kernels. This change in technology, along with the removal of root access, substantially impacts the technology and customization options available for these new devices.
