Verizon Galaxy S5 Bootloader Has Been Unlocked

Verizon has a storied history with regards to bootloader unlocking – namely, they hate the very idea of it. For years now, Verizon has maintained that preventing you from unlocking your device’s bootloader is for your own benefit. In a letter sent to customers who filed a complaint with the FCC, Verizon states that:

“[A]n open bootloader could prevent Verizon Wireless from providing the same level of customer experience and support because it would allow users to change their phone or otherwise modify the software and, potentially, negatively impact how the phone connects with the network.”

There is some truth to this claim, as users with unlocked bootloaders are able to modify the device’s radio files which could potentially cause problems with cellular connectivity. Verizon also states that :

“The addition of unapproved software could also negatively impact the wireless experience for other customers.”

We all know what they mean by this – they don’t want people to use tethering. Not unexpected, of course, as Verizon wants to make money off of anyone using their mobile network. The same is true for almost every carrier. However, Verizon (along with AT&T) is unique in its stubbornness to lock down its devices, with nearly every device released for its network being unable to be unlocked. They would rather you purchase an entirely new phone to be able to unlock your bootloader, rather than sticking with what you have.

Victory for the Consumer

For months, Verizon Galaxy S5 users have waited for even a simple root method. They eventually got one thanks to the community coming together and setting a bounty for it, incentivizing any developer looking to claim nearly $20,000! But the holy grail that the Verizon Galaxy S5 community was looking out for – and what they pledged their money to see – was still out of reach. Until today, that is. Beaups, a member of the Firewater team responsible for the Sunshine bootloader unlock tool, has just posted a video demonstrating a proof of concept for unlocking the S5 bootloader. This process shows a Verizon Galaxy S5 bootloader being put into developer mode, though the proof of concept should work on any S5. At the moment, there are no determined plans to release the unlocking method as it is merely a proof of concept, but the implications of this development should excite every Verizon Galaxy S5 owner. Who knows, maybe your device will eventually be able to join the list of devices that are tasting that sweet, sweet Marshmallow.

Are you excited for what this development will bring? Let us know what you hope to do with an unlocked device in the comments below!

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