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OEM UNLOCK GREYED OUT ON MY PIXEL 2.

OEM Unlock Greyed Out on My Pixel 2: The Definitive Troubleshooting Guide

We understand the immense frustration when you attempt to unlock the bootloader of your Google Pixel 2, only to find the critical OEM unlocking toggle greyed out and disabled. This specific barrier is one of the most common roadblocks encountered by Android enthusiasts, developers, and those looking to install custom ROMs or root their devices using tools like Magisk. The situation becomes even more perplexing when you have confirmed that the device is reportedly unlocked via IMEI checks and assurances from the seller. The discrepancy between a device being “carrier unlocked” (SIM free) and the “OEM unlock” setting being active is a nuanced issue rooted deeply in Google’s device security protocols and carrier agreements.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dissect every potential cause for the OEM unlock greyed out issue on the Pixel 2. We will move beyond surface-level advice and delve into the technical specifics of FRP locks, carrier restrictions, software version constraints, and bootloader state. Our objective is to provide a structured, step-by-step methodology to diagnose the exact cause and apply the precise solution to enable that toggle.

Understanding the Distinction: Carrier Unlock vs. OEM Unlock

Before attempting any fixes, it is imperative to understand why a phone that is SIM unlocked might still have a disabled OEM unlock switch. These two locking mechanisms serve entirely different security functions within the Android ecosystem.

What is a Carrier Unlock?

A carrier unlock (or network unlock) removes the software restriction that binds a device to a specific mobile network provider (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile). When a Pixel 2 is carrier unlocked, you can insert a SIM card from any carrier worldwide, and the device will connect to the network. This status is often verified through IMEI databases. However, this unlock only pertains to network access and does not grant permissions to modify the device’s system partition or bootloader.

What is OEM Unlocking?

OEM unlocking is a developer setting that allows the device’s bootloader to be unlocked. This is a prerequisite for flashing custom recoveries (like TWRP), installing custom ROMs (like LineageOS), or rooting the device (via Magisk). When the bootloader is unlocked, the device’s security chain is broken, allowing unsigned code to run. Google enforces a mandatory 72-hour waiting period on most Pixel devices after a factory reset before the OEM unlocking option becomes available. This is a security measure designed to prevent theft and unauthorized access.

Why IMEI Checks Can Be Misleading

Checking an IMEI to see if a device is “unlocked” typically only confirms the carrier unlock status. It does not reflect the device’s Factory Reset Protection (FRP) status, the bootloader unlock eligibility, or whether the device is blacklisted for other reasons. Consequently, a Pixel 2 can be fully carrier unlocked but still restricted from OEM unlocking due to an active FRP lock or a pending software timer.

Primary Causes for the OEM Unlock Toggle Being Greyed Out

We have identified the four most prevalent reasons why the OEM unlock setting remains disabled on the Pixel 2. Each requires a distinct diagnostic approach.

1. Factory Reset Protection (FRP) Lock

The most common cause for a greyed out OEM unlock is an active FRP lock. If the previous owner of the Pixel 2 did not properly remove their Google account before selling the device, or if a factory reset was performed via recovery mode without removing the account first, the device will be FRP locked. For security reasons, Google prohibits bootloader unlocking on devices with an active FRP lock to prevent unauthorized access to user data.

2. The 72-Hour Security Countdown

Google implements a mandatory waiting period on Pixel devices (specifically those running Android 7.0 and higher) after a factory reset. During this period, the OEM unlocking toggle is disabled. You must wait for this timer to expire—typically 72 hours—before the option becomes active. This timer is reset if another factory reset is performed, effectively restarting the waiting period.

3. Carrier-Specific Restrictions (Especially Verizon)

While you mentioned the device is unlocked, we must address the specific history of the Pixel 2. Certain variants of the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, particularly those originally sold by Verizon or purchased through specific retailers (like Best Buy), came with bootloader unlock restrictions baked into the firmware. Even if the device is SIM unlocked, the bootloader may remain permanently locked by the carrier’s software configuration. Verizon Pixel models are notorious for this restriction.

4. Software Version and Update Constraints

Occasionally, specific Android security patch levels or software builds can conflict with the OEM unlocking process. If the device is running an outdated version of Android or a specific carrier-locked firmware build, the toggle may remain greyed out until the device is updated to a compatible version.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Enable OEM Unlocking

We will now walk through the troubleshooting steps to resolve the OEM unlock greyed out issue. Follow these steps in order, as they are arranged from the most common and least invasive fixes to more complex solutions.

Step 1: Verify and Remove Factory Reset Protection (FRP)

This is the first and most critical step. You cannot unlock the bootloader if the device is still linked to the previous owner’s Google account.

  1. Boot the device and complete the initial setup wizard.
  2. Connect to Wi-Fi and proceed until you reach the “Verify your account” screen (this is the FRP lock screen).
  3. Check Active Accounts: Once you reach the home screen (if you bypassed FRP or it wasn’t active), go to Settings > Accounts. Ensure there are no accounts listed, particularly Google accounts.
  4. Remove Accounts: If you see an account that is not yours, or if you added your own account, remove it. Navigate to Settings > Google > Manage your Google Account. Tap on the account and select Remove Account.
  5. Perform a Factory Reset: After removing all Google accounts, perform a factory reset to clear any cached credentials.
    • Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
    • Let the device reboot and set it up again.
    • Do not sign in to a Google account immediately. Skip the account setup if possible, or create a dummy account.
  6. Check Developer Options: Go to Settings > System > Developer options. Check if the OEM unlocking toggle is now active. If it is still greyed out, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: The Mandatory 72-Hour Wait Period

If you have just performed a factory reset (which is often necessary to clear an FRP lock), the 72-hour timer is automatically triggered. This is a hard-coded restriction in the Pixel’s bootloader.

  1. Patience is Required: You must wait for the countdown to finish. The exact time can vary but is generally 3 full days (72 hours).
  2. Keep the Device Charged: Ensure the device remains powered on and connected to the internet (Wi-Fi) during this period. The device checks the time with Google servers.
  3. Do Not Factory Reset: Do not perform any further factory resets during this window, as doing so will reset the clock back to 72 hours.
  4. Verification: After 72 hours have passed, navigate back to Developer Options > OEM unlocking. The toggle should now be blue and clickable.

Step 3: Addressing Carrier-Specific Bootloader Locks

If the device has passed the FRP check and the 72-hour wait, yet the toggle remains greyed out, the issue likely lies with the carrier configuration. This is particularly relevant for Pixel 2 devices originally sold by Verizon.

  1. Identify the Carrier Variant:
    • Check the model number in Settings > About phone.
    • Pixel 2 (G011A) is the unlocked model (North America).
    • Pixel 2 (G011B) is the Verizon model.
    • If you have the G011B model, the bootloader is likely permanently locked. Verizon locked the bootloader on the Pixel 2 to prevent tampering, and this restriction cannot be removed via software toggles.
  2. The “Caller ID” Trick (Legacy Method):
    • Some users reported success with an older method involving the Caller ID app, though this is less effective on newer Android versions running on the Pixel 2.
    • Go to Settings > Apps > Show System (or three-dot menu > Show system apps).
    • Find Carrier Services and Google Connectivity Services. Force stop them and clear their cache/data.
    • Restart the device and check the toggle again.
  3. Flash Stock Firmware (If Locked by Software):
    • If the device is carrier unlocked but the software is preventing OEM unlock, flashing the factory image for the unlocked variant (G011A) might help, though flashing a Verizon firmware onto a Verizon hardware ID is usually enforced at the bootloader level.
    • Warning: Flashing the wrong firmware can result in a hard brick. Only attempt this if you are certain of the hardware model.

Step 4: Utilizing Fastboot to Check Bootloader State

We can bypass the UI settings to check the actual bootloader status using ADB and Fastboot. This provides definitive data on the device’s state.

  1. Set up ADB and Fastboot: Ensure you have the Android SDK Platform-Tools installed on your computer.
  2. Enable USB Debugging: On the Pixel 2, go to Settings > Developer options and enable USB debugging. Connect the device to your PC.
  3. Open Command Prompt/Terminal: Navigate to the folder where Fastboot is located.
  4. Check Device Connection:
    adb devices
    • Accept the USB debugging prompt on the Pixel 2 screen.
  5. Reboot to Bootloader:
    adb reboot bootloader
  6. Check Lock State:
    fastboot devices
fastboot oem device-info
    • Look for the lines labeled Device unlocked and Device critical unlocked.
    • Scenario A: If Device unlocked: false and OEM Unlock supported: false, the bootloader is locked, and the toggle will be greyed out.
    • Scenario B: If Device unlocked: false but OEM Unlock supported: true, the software toggle is the issue (likely the 72-hour timer or FRP).

Step 5: The “Set CG (Carrier Group) Lock” Command (Advanced)

For Pixel 2 devices that appear to be stuck due to carrier verification, specifically the Verizon variants, there is a low-level fastboot command that attempts to adjust the carrier lock status. Proceed with extreme caution.

  1. Reboot to Bootloader: adb reboot bootloader
  2. Attempt to Set CG Unlocked:
    fastboot oem set-cfg unlocked
    • Note: This command is not universally supported and may return an error or “Not implemented” on some builds.
  3. Verify the Change:
    fastboot oem get-cfg
    • If the output indicates that the CG is locked, this confirms a carrier-level restriction that prevents OEM unlocking.
  4. Critical Warning: Do not attempt to flash images if the CG is locked and the bootloader reports as locked. This can trigger Verified Boot failures.

Step 6: Dealing with “OEM Unlocking Greyed Out” Due to RIL (Radio Interface Layer) Issues

An often-overlooked cause is a corrupt RIL or modem partition. If the Pixel 2 cannot properly communicate with the network (even if the SIM is unlocked), the system may refuse to authorize bootloader unlocking due to security verification failures.

  1. Flash Modem/Firmware:
    • Download the latest factory image for the Pixel 2 (specifically the carrier-unlocked version, regardless of your hardware model, if you are confident the hardware is compatible).
    • Extract the image files.
    • Flash the radio-img.img (modem firmware) specifically:
      fastboot flash radio radio.img
  2. Reboot and Check: After flashing the radio, reboot the device fully, let it sit on the network for 15-20 minutes, then check the Developer Options again.

Step 7: Root Access Workaround (The “Root Approach”)

If the OEM unlock toggle remains greyed out despite all software attempts, and the device is not permanently locked by hardware (Verizon), we can attempt to gain temporary root access to force the unlock state. This is complex and requires a specific vulnerability, but it is a common topic in the Magisk community.

Troubleshooting Specific Error Messages

While attempting these fixes, you may encounter specific errors in Fastboot.

“Oem unlock is not allowed”

This error typically confirms that the 72-hour timer is still active or that the device is FRP locked. It may also appear if the device’s bootloader version is older than the current security patch, creating a mismatch.

“Device is locked” (in fastboot oem device-info)

If Device unlocked: false is displayed, the bootloader is cryptographically locked. If OEM Unlock supported: false is also displayed, the carrier has disabled the unlock capability permanently. This is often the case with Verizon models. The only solution for permanent locks is usually hardware-based (using a clip or specialized tool to bypass the eFuse), which is risky and generally not recommended for average users.

Final Steps: Factory Images and Clean Flash

If all else fails, a clean flash of the latest Android factory image for the Pixel 2 can resolve software corruptions that cause the toggle to remain greyed out.

  1. Download the Factory Image: Obtain the official image from Google’s developer portal. Ensure you select the image matching your device model (e.g., Walleye for Pixel 2).
  2. Extract and Flash:
    • Extract the .tgz file and the resulting zip.
    • Execute the flash-all script (or run the individual fastboot commands manually if the script fails).
    • Do not lock the bootloader during this process.
  3. Post-Flash Setup:
    • After the flash completes, boot the device.
    • Do not connect to Wi-Fi immediately.
    • Go straight to Settings > System > Developer Options.
    • Check the OEM unlocking toggle immediately. Sometimes it is active right after a flash before the device fully checks in with Google servers.
    • If active, enable it immediately and reboot to the bootloader to unlock.

Conclusion: Why Your Pixel 2 is Likely Restricted

Based on your description—where an IMEI check shows unlocked but the OEM toggle is greyed out—the most probable scenario is a remaining Factory Reset Protection (FRP) lock or a hardware-level carrier restriction (common in Verizon Pixel 2 units).

If you have removed all Google accounts and waited the requisite 72 hours, and the toggle is still disabled, you are likely facing a permanently locked bootloader by the carrier. This is a security feature embedded in the hardware’s bootloader partition that cannot be removed via standard software commands.

Recommended Path Forward:

  1. Factory Reset and ensure no Google accounts are linked (check via Settings > Accounts).
  2. Wait 72 hours without resetting.
  3. If still locked, check the model number. If it is a Verizon variant (G011B), the bootloader is likely permanently locked, and you will not be able to enable OEM unlocking. In this case, the device is functionally “carrier unlocked” but “system locked,” preventing custom firmware installation.

We hope this guide assists you in resolving the OEM unlock greyed out issue on your Pixel 2. By systematically addressing FRP locks, carrier restrictions, and software timers, you can determine the exact nature of the lock and proceed with the appropriate solution.

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