31 replies to this topic

[vash_h]

Just a question, what's the advantage of unlocked boot loader?

Sent from my XT910

[snives]

Just a question, what's the advantage of unlocked boot loader?

Sent from my XT910

Ability to modify 100% of the software, including the kernel. CM for example normally uses a standardized kernel to allow a nearly identical code to run on tons of different devices. In the case of some devices, this could include enabling a global phone mode, improving overclock, faster boot times, and nearly endless other optimizations. The only legitimate justification for locking it is to make a full software bricking of the device only possible if the manufacturer screws up. Kernels aren't incredibly hard to build, but mastering kernel development is very advanced.

[vash_h]

I see.. Is Android the only one that allows unlocked kernel? Wp7, iPhone I don't think has..

If this is one of the reasons ppl buy Android, they should allow unlocked boot loader..

Or just an idea, can we port over kernels? From the unlocked razrs to locked razrs

Sent from my XT910

[59S]

I think WP phones has locked bootloaders.

[59S]

Decided to keep it.

[snives]

I see.. Is Android the only one that allows unlocked kernel? Wp7, iPhone I don't think has..

If this is one of the reasons ppl buy Android, they should allow unlocked boot loader..

Or just an idea, can we port over kernels? From the unlocked razrs to locked razrs

Sent from my XT910

We can build kernels for the RAZR already, which would be essentially the same thing as borrowing one from an unlocked device. The issue is the eFuse chips used to physically and permanently mark the devices as each version. Once a device is flagged as a consumer device, it will always follow the integrated bootloader on boot (Kholk claims to have found a work around, but no work has been shared to my knowledge). This bootloader checks for an official Motorola signature, which to say the least is as easy to crack as a federal banks encryption. So although we can get the kernels together and install them, we can not sign them such that the device will let us use them. The two most likely paths for bypassing (assuming Kholk hasn't pulled off what many would call a miracle) would be either an official unlock being released, or the key used for signing being leaked. Given that likely only the top level engineers have access to the key, it is more likely that they will release the promised unlock.

I should have been more concise... sorry for the rambling.

[snives]

Decided to keep it.

Good to hear. I love this phone, and even with the locked bootloader I would rather have it over any other device currently available.

[59S]

Good to hear. I love this phone, and even with the locked bootloader I would rather have it over any other device currently available.

Yes, I still have hope to see a unlocked bootloader soon and full of roms. Crossing my fingers that kholk can do it.

[vash_h]

We can build kernels for the RAZR already, which would be essentially the same thing as borrowing one from an unlocked device. The issue is the eFuse chips used to physically and permanently mark the devices as each version. Once a device is flagged as a consumer device, it will always follow the integrated bootloader on boot (Kholk claims to have found a work around, but no work has been shared to my knowledge). This bootloader checks for an official Motorola signature, which to say the least is as easy to crack as a federal banks encryption. So although we can get the kernels together and install them, we can not sign them such that the device will let us use them. The two most likely paths for bypassing (assuming Kholk hasn't pulled off what many would call a miracle) would be either an official unlock being released, or the key used for signing being leaked. Given that likely only the top level engineers have access to the key, it is more likely that they will release the promised unlock.

I should have been more concise... sorry for the rambling.

Thank for the detailed explanaton.. I understand more now. Thank you.

Sent from my XT910

[Armus]

I'm somewhat familiar with large number theory and encryption but would like to know more. What kind of key signing is this? Anyone know of a good resource to find more information on it?

[snives]

I'm somewhat familiar with large number theory and encryption but would like to know more. What kind of key signing is this? Anyone know of a good resource to find more information on it?

I honestly can't remember what bit level or method is used, I just remember laughing when I did see it because it thought it was overkill. The info is out there though, because I've stumbled across it. I just can't remember where. I believe I was google researching the efuse chip and came across a discussion about the specifics of moto bootloader locking.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[59S]

If I remember, the Atrix bootloader was also locked but got unlocked by a dev in XDA and is now running custom roms + unsigned kernels. So not all the Motorola phone's have locked BL