Z3C (D5803) Unlockable Bootloader

[themadwizard]

Is there any way to determine before I buy the phone that the bootloader will be unlockable?  I really like this phone, but I want the unlockable bootloader.  From what I can tell, the only way to do so is the service menu after powering up the phone, which doesn't work out so well when ordering it onlin (which is the only way to get it).

[apjashley1]

I bought a network-branded phone, but even after flashing another software version the bootloader can't be unlocked. I thought this setting was permanent?

[themadwizard]

Unfortunately, the nearest Sony store is hundreds of miles away...

[Uliwooly]

@apjashley1

It is permanent, if your phone is or was network branded/locked to a carrier, you will not be able to unlock the bootloader, if you click on the link I posted on the first page, you'll see that the only way around it is to replace the motherboard, which is the most expensive part of the phone. 

[Uliwooly]

@themadwizard

Where did you purchased this phone?

[themadwizard]

On Amazon from Saletagz.  Unlocked International Model.

[Uliwooly]

@themadwizard

Perhaps you can get a refund

on a side note, why do you want to unlock the bootloader?

[themadwizard]

I can get a refund, they have offered it to me.  I am trying to find a way to get a phone with an unlockable bootloader after this.

I want to install CyanogenMod on my phone.  I used to have it on my Sprint GS3, but I moved to AT&T and made the mistake of buying an S5 from them.  I finally couldn't take Samsung's horrible software and kernel and moved on to the Z3 Compact.  I really like it, but I don't like many of the settings and limitations of the z3c (like the fact that I can't control notification volumes separately from ring volume).

I am really big into customizing my stuff.

[Uliwooly]

@themadwizard

Get a refund and buy it at BestBuy or Sony either at a physical store or online 

[themadwizard]

That's the plan.  I was hoping to find out if there was a way to find out if it is bootloader unlockable before they ship it.

Best Buy still wants over $500 for it.

[Uliwooly]

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