At a Glance
- Unlocking the bootloader is the key to unlocking its full potential, allowing you to install custom ROMs, kernels, and root your device.
- This guide will walk you through the process of how to unlock bootloader Asus ROG Phone 2, step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
- Turn off your phone and then press and hold the Volume Down button while connecting it to your computer using the USB cable.
Are you ready to take your Asus ROG Phone 2 to the next level? Unlocking the bootloader is the key to unlocking its full potential, allowing you to install custom ROMs, kernels, and root your device. This guide will walk you through the process of how to unlock bootloader Asus ROG Phone 2, step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
Understanding the Bootloader
Before diving into the unlocking process, it’s essential to understand what the bootloader is and why unlocking it is significant.
The bootloader is a small piece of software that runs before the Android operating system. It’s responsible for loading the kernel and other essential components. In its locked state, the bootloader restricts access to the system, preventing modifications like installing custom ROMs or rooting the device.
Unlocking the bootloader removes this restriction, opening up a world of possibilities for customization and optimization. However, it’s crucial to understand that unlocking the bootloader comes with certain risks, including voiding your warranty and potentially bricking your device if not done correctly.
Prerequisites
Before you embark on unlocking the bootloader, ensure you have the following:
- A working Asus ROG Phone 2: Ensure your device is fully charged and backed up.
- USB cable: A high-quality USB cable to connect your phone to your computer.
- Computer: A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- ADB and Fastboot drivers: These drivers are necessary for communicating with your device. You can download them from the Asus website or the official Android SDK.
- Backup of your data: It’s always a good idea to back up your data before unlocking the bootloader, as it will wipe your device’s internal storage.
Enabling Developer Options and USB Debugging
1. Open Settings: Go to your phone’s settings app.
2. Navigate to About Phone: Scroll down to the bottom and tap on “About Phone.”
3. Tap on Build Number: Tap on the “Build Number” seven times. You should see a message confirming that developer options are enabled.
4. Go back to Settings: Now, you’ll find a new option called “Developer Options” in the settings menu.
5. Enable USB Debugging: Within Developer Options, enable “USB Debugging.”
Downloading and Installing ADB and Fastboot
1. Download the Android SDK platform-tools: Download the latest version of the Android SDK platform-tools from the official Google developer website.
2. Extract the files: Extract the downloaded zip file to a location on your computer.
3. Add to System Path: For ease of use, add the platform-tools directory to your system’s PATH environment variable. This will allow you to access the ADB and Fastboot commands from any directory.
Unlocking the Bootloader
1. Boot into Fastboot Mode: Turn off your phone and then press and hold the Volume Down button while connecting it to your computer using the USB cable. You should see the fastboot mode screen.
2. Open a command prompt or terminal: Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer.
3. Navigate to the platform-tools directory: Use the “cd” command to navigate to the directory where you extracted the Android SDK platform-tools.
4. Issue the unlock command: Type the following command and press Enter:
“`
fastboot oem unlock
“`
5. Confirm the unlock: Your phone will display a warning message. Use the Volume keys to navigate to “Yes” and press the Power button to confirm.
Verifying the Unlocked Bootloader
1. Reboot your phone: After unlocking the bootloader, reboot your phone.
2. Check for the unlock status: Once your phone boots up, go to Settings > About Phone > Bootloader Status. You should see a message confirming that the bootloader is unlocked.
Final Steps: Flashing a Custom Recovery and Rooting
Now that your bootloader is unlocked, you can flash a custom recovery like TWRP and root your device. This will give you full control over your phone, allowing you to install custom ROMs, kernels, and other modifications.
Time to Unleash the Potential: The Final Word
Unlocking the bootloader of your Asus ROG Phone 2 opens up a world of possibilities for customization and optimization. With a custom recovery and root access, you can truly unleash the full potential of your device. Remember to back up your data before proceeding and follow the steps carefully to avoid any issues.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Is unlocking the bootloader safe?
A: Unlocking the bootloader is generally safe. However, it’s important to follow the steps carefully and use reputable resources for instructions. Incorrect steps or using unofficial tools can lead to bricking your device.
Q: Will unlocking the bootloader void my warranty?
A: Yes, unlocking the bootloader will void your warranty. However, you can relock the bootloader if you need to claim warranty service.
Q: Can I lock the bootloader again after unlocking it?
A: Yes, you can relock the bootloader using the following command:
“`
fastboot oem lock
“`
Q: What are some popular custom ROMs for the Asus ROG Phone 2?
A: Some popular custom ROMs for the Asus ROG Phone 2 include LineageOS, Resurrection Remix, and Paranoid Android.
Q: What are the benefits of rooting my phone?
A: Rooting your phone gives you complete control over your device, allowing you to install custom ROMs, kernels, and apps, remove bloatware, and customize your system in ways that are not possible with stock Android.