Oppo a72 unlock bootloader

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Unlocking the bootloader of your Oppo A72 is a process that allows you to gain deeper access to your device’s system, enabling you to install custom ROMs, kernels, and other modifications that aren’t possible on a locked bootloader. However, this process is not without risks, including voiding your warranty, potentially bricking your device, and compromising your device’s security. In this detailed review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about unlocking the bootloader on the Oppo A72, including the benefits, risks, steps involved, and precautions to take.

Understanding Bootloaders and Why You Might Want to Unlock Yours

What is a Bootloader?

A bootloader is a program that loads the operating system when your device is turned on. It initializes the hardware and software, and ensures that the operating system starts correctly. In most smartphones, including the Oppo A72, the bootloader is locked by default. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized modifications to the system software.

Why Unlock the Bootloader?

Unlocking the bootloader grants you access to the root directory of your device, allowing you to modify the system in ways that are not typically permitted. Some of the reasons you might want to unlock the bootloader include:

  1. Installing Custom ROMs: Custom ROMs can offer a different user interface, additional features, and optimizations that are not available in the stock ROM provided by Oppo.
  2. Root Access: Unlocking the bootloader is the first step toward gaining root access, which allows you to use apps that require administrative permissions.
  3. Installing Custom Kernels: Custom kernels can optimize performance, improve battery life, or add support for features like overclocking.
  4. Removing Bloatware: With root access, you can uninstall pre-installed apps that are not removable through standard methods.
  5. Access to Advanced Features: Some advanced features, like certain backup solutions or system tweaks, require an unlocked bootloader.

Risks and Considerations

While unlocking the bootloader offers many benefits, it’s important to understand the risks involved:

  1. Voiding Warranty: Unlocking the bootloader typically voids the warranty provided by the manufacturer. If something goes wrong, you may not be able to get your device repaired under warranty.
  2. Bricking the Device: If the process of unlocking the bootloader or flashing custom software goes wrong, it can “brick” your device, rendering it unusable.
  3. Security Risks: An unlocked bootloader makes your device more vulnerable to security threats, as it can allow unauthorized access to the system.
  4. Loss of Data: Unlocking the bootloader will erase all data on your device. It’s crucial to back up your data before proceeding.
  5. OTA Updates: You may no longer receive over-the-air (OTA) updates from Oppo, or the updates might not work correctly on a device with a modified system.

Prerequisites Before Unlocking the Bootloader

Before proceeding with unlocking the bootloader of your Oppo A72, there are several prerequisites to consider:

  1. Backup Your Data: Unlocking the bootloader will erase all data on your device, including apps, settings, and personal files. Use Oppo’s built-in backup tool, Google Drive, or a third-party app to back up your data.
  2. Install Necessary Drivers: Ensure you have the necessary USB drivers installed on your computer to allow proper communication between the Oppo A72 and your PC.
  3. Enable Developer Options: You need to enable Developer Options on your Oppo A72 to access the bootloader unlocking features.
  4. Enable USB Debugging: Within Developer Options, enable USB Debugging to allow your computer to interact with your device through ADB commands.
  5. Charge Your Device: Ensure that your Oppo A72 has at least 70-80% battery charge before starting the unlocking process to prevent any interruptions.
  6. Understand the Risks: Make sure you fully understand the risks involved and are prepared to potentially lose your warranty and data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Unlocking the Bootloader on Oppo A72

Here’s a step-by-step guide to unlocking the bootloader of your Oppo A72:

Step 1: Enable Developer Options

  1. Go to Settings: Open the Settings app on your Oppo A72.
  2. About Phone: Scroll down and tap on “About Phone.”
  3. Build Number: Locate the “Build Number” and tap it seven times. You will see a notification that says, “You are now a developer!”

Step 2: Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging

  1. Return to Settings: Go back to the main Settings menu.
  2. Developer Options: Find and tap on “Developer Options,” which should now be visible after unlocking Developer Mode.
  3. OEM Unlocking: Toggle the “OEM Unlocking” option to enable it. Confirm any warnings that appear.
  4. USB Debugging: Scroll down and enable “USB Debugging.” This will allow your computer to send commands to your device.

Step 3: Install ADB and Fastboot on Your Computer

  1. Download ADB and Fastboot: Download the latest ADB and Fastboot tools from the official Android developer website or use a trusted third-party source.
  2. Install Drivers: Ensure that the necessary drivers for your Oppo A72 are installed on your computer.

Step 4: Boot Your Oppo A72 into Fastboot Mode

  1. Power Off: Turn off your Oppo A72.
  2. Fastboot Mode: Hold down the Volume Up button and the Power button simultaneously until the device boots into Fastboot Mode.

Step 5: Connect Your Device to the Computer

  1. USB Cable: Connect your Oppo A72 to your computer using a USB cable.
  2. Command Prompt: On your computer, open a Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux) window in the directory where ADB and Fastboot are installed.

Step 6: Verify the Connection

  1. ADB Command: Type the following command and press Enter:
    adb devices

    This command should list your device, indicating that it is properly connected.

Step 7: Unlock the Bootloader

  1. Unlock Command: Enter the following command to unlock the bootloader:
    fastboot oem unlock
  2. Confirmation: You may need to confirm the unlock process on your device. Use the Volume keys to navigate and the Power button to confirm.

Step 8: Reboot the Device

  1. Reboot Command: Once the bootloader is unlocked, reboot your device by entering:
    fastboot reboot
  2. Set Up Your Device: After rebooting, set up your device as you would with a new phone.

What to Do After Unlocking the Bootloader

Once you’ve successfully unlocked the bootloader of your Oppo A72, there are several actions you can take to make the most out of this new freedom:

1. Install a Custom Recovery

Installing a custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) allows you to create full backups of your device, flash custom ROMs, and more.

Steps to Install TWRP:

  1. Download TWRP: Download the TWRP recovery image file for the Oppo A72.
  2. Boot into Fastboot Mode: Reboot your device into Fastboot Mode.
  3. Flash TWRP: Use the following command to flash TWRP:
    fastboot flash recovery twrp.img
  4. Reboot: Once installed, reboot your device into TWRP recovery by typing:
    fastboot reboot

2. Root Your Device

Rooting your Oppo A72 gives you administrative access, allowing you to modify system files, uninstall bloatware, and use apps that require root permissions.

Steps to Root:

  1. Magisk: Download the Magisk zip file for rooting.
  2. TWRP: Boot into TWRP recovery.
  3. Flash Magisk: Flash the Magisk zip file to root your device.
  4. Reboot: Reboot your device and verify root access using a root checker app.

3. Flash Custom ROMs

With the bootloader unlocked and a custom recovery installed, you can flash custom ROMs that offer different features, UI enhancements, and performance improvements.

Steps to Flash Custom ROMs:

  1. Download ROM: Download the custom ROM you want to install.
  2. TWRP Backup: Before flashing, create a full backup of your current system in TWRP.
  3. Flash ROM: In TWRP, wipe the necessary partitions (data, cache, system) and flash the custom ROM zip file.
  4. GApps: If necessary, flash Google Apps (GApps) separately.
  5. Reboot: Reboot your device and set it up with the new ROM.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Unlocking the bootloader and making modifications to your device can sometimes lead to unexpected issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

1. Device Stuck in Bootloop

A bootloop occurs when your device gets stuck in the boot screen after flashing a custom ROM or making changes to the system.

Solution:

  • Restore Backup: Boot into TWRP and restore a previous backup.
  • Re-flash ROM: If the problem persists, try re-flashing the custom ROM or revert to the stock ROM.

2. Loss of Data

Unlocking the bootloader wipes all data on the device from your Oppo A72. If you’ve already unlocked the bootloader and found that your data is lost, unfortunately, there’s no way to recover it directly from the device. However, there are preventive measures and some post-unlock steps you can take to manage data loss more effectively in the future.

Preventive Measures for Future Unlocks:

  1. Regular Backups: Make a habit of regularly backing up your data. You can use cloud services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Oppo’s backup service. This ensures that even if you lose data during the unlock process, you can restore it easily.
  2. Use Custom Recovery: After unlocking your bootloader, immediately install a custom recovery like TWRP. This tool allows you to take full system backups (also known as Nandroid backups), which can be restored at any time.
  3. Sync Your Apps: Ensure that apps like Google Photos, Contacts, and other essential services are synced with your Google account. This way, your photos, contacts, and other important data are automatically saved to the cloud.

Post-Unlock Data Management:

  1. Set Up Automated Backups: Once your device is unlocked, set up automated backups using a custom recovery or third-party apps that require root access. This will help in restoring your data in case of future issues.
  2. Flash Backup-Friendly ROMs: Some custom ROMs come with built-in tools that support seamless data backups and restores. Consider installing a ROM that offers this feature if data security is a priority.
  3. Avoid Experimental Mods Without Backup: Once your bootloader is unlocked, you might be tempted to experiment with different mods, kernels, or tweaks. Always ensure you have a current backup before making any changes, especially if they involve critical system files.

3. Device Not Recognized by ADB/Fastboot

If your Oppo A72 isn’t recognized by ADB or Fastboot, you won’t be able to proceed with commands necessary for unlocking the bootloader or flashing custom recoveries.

Solution:

  1. Reinstall Drivers: Ensure that the appropriate USB drivers for your device are installed on your computer. Sometimes, driver issues are the main cause of connectivity problems.
  2. Check USB Cable and Port: Use the original USB cable and try different USB ports on your computer. Also, ensure that your phone is in Fastboot mode.
  3. Verify ADB/Fastboot Installation: Check if ADB and Fastboot tools are correctly installed on your computer. You can test this by typing adb devices in the command prompt while your device is connected.
  4. Switch USB Mode: On some devices, you might need to change the USB mode from “Charging only” to “File Transfer (MTP)” or “USB Debugging” mode to establish a proper connection.

4. OTA Updates Fail to Install

After unlocking the bootloader or flashing a custom ROM, you may encounter issues with receiving or installing OTA (Over-the-Air) updates.

Solution:

  1. Re-lock the Bootloader: If you wish to receive OTA updates, you may need to re-lock the bootloader. This will, however, restore the device to its factory state, erasing all modifications.
  2. Flash Stock ROM: If OTA updates fail on a custom ROM, consider flashing the stock ROM. This will return your device to its original state, allowing you to receive official updates again.
  3. Manual Updates: Some users prefer to manually download and install OTA updates or use custom recovery to flash update packages. This method is more complicated but can bypass issues related to bootloader unlocks.

5. Bootloader Re-Locking

If you decide that you no longer want to keep the bootloader unlocked, you can re-lock it. However, re-locking the bootloader will usually require you to restore the device to its original factory firmware, wiping all data in the process.

Steps to Re-lock the Bootloader:

  1. Restore Stock ROM: Flash the original stock ROM using the custom recovery or Fastboot commands.
  2. Boot into Fastboot Mode: Reboot your device into Fastboot mode as you did during the unlocking process.
  3. Re-lock Command: Use the command below to re-lock the bootloader:
    csharp

    fastboot oem lock
  4. Reboot: After re-locking, reboot your device. It will be reset to factory settings, and the bootloader will be locked again.

Best Practices After Unlocking the Bootloader

Unlocking the bootloader opens up numerous possibilities for customization and performance enhancement. However, following best practices will help ensure that you don’t inadvertently damage your device.

  1. Research Before Flashing: Always thoroughly research the custom ROM, kernel, or mod you plan to install. Check user reviews, known bugs, and compatibility issues.
  2. Keep a Backup: Always have a recent backup of your current system. This allows you to revert to a working state if something goes wrong.
  3. Test New ROMs in Stages: After flashing a new ROM, test it for a few days before installing additional mods or customizations. This helps identify any issues early.
  4. Join Communities: Engage with online communities like XDA Developers, Reddit, or specific Oppo forums. These platforms can offer valuable support and insights from other users who have unlocked their bootloaders.
  5. Security Awareness: With an unlocked bootloader, be extra cautious with the apps you install, especially those requiring root access. Malicious apps could take advantage of the open system to cause harm.

Conclusion

Unlocking the bootloader of the Oppo A72 is a significant step toward personalizing your smartphone experience. It allows you to install custom ROMs, gain root access, and make system-level changes that are otherwise not possible. However, the process comes with risks, including voiding your warranty, potential security vulnerabilities, and the possibility of bricking your device if not done correctly.

By following the steps outlined in this review, you can unlock your bootloader with confidence, knowing the precautions to take and how to address any issues that may arise. Whether you’re looking to improve performance, install a custom ROM, or remove bloatware, unlocking the bootloader gives you the freedom to fully control your device. However, remember that with this freedom comes responsibility, so always back up your data, research thoroughly, and proceed with caution.

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