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dragpyre

The title essentially sums it up, I have an Xperia U ST25i with the latest firmware ending .184, locked to the O2 network in the UK, and I know that certain network operators prevent bootloader unlocking. So if I unlocked the phone to all networks, would that essentially make it equivalent to a SIM free handset, and would I be able to unlock the bootloader and flash a pre rooted firmware?

If not, I know certain operators around the world allow bootloader unlocking for a small fee. Do you know if O2 is one of these operators?

Thank you.

Rephrased and expanded on question.

Uliwooly

no you can't, you can debrand but you can't unlock the bootloader

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unrelated topic, if you have some time please check this thread

http://talk.sonymobile.com/thread/44888

dragpyre

Would sending it to O2 allow unlocking? I know some networks unlock bootloaders if you pay them a fee and sending it to them.

Uliwooly

that's something you will have to ask them, as it's up to them to allow you to unlock your bootloader or not, there's a thread on this forum regarding movistar allowing their users to unlock the bootloader but they have to take it to a sony repair center.

Don't forget to mark the Correct Answers & Helpful Answers

unrelated topic, if you have some time please check this thread

http://talk.sonymobile.com/thread/44888

dragpyre

Well, they're owned by Telefonica S.A. so it should hopefully all be good, shouldn't it?

Uliwooly

I can't really comment on that or give you false hope, but for what I've seen networks don't allow this.

Don't forget to mark the Correct Answers & Helpful Answers

unrelated topic, if you have some time please check this thread

http://talk.sonymobile.com/thread/44888

Petter

If your was bought together with an operator and is branded you won't be able to unlock the bootloader. That's the simple and short answer there is I'm afraid.

You can read more about it on the link below.