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Some carrier locked and US devices can never be unlocked. On Sony devices ([but not all?][service-menu-gone]) you can check if the bootloader is unlockable using the service menu.

     

       
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Additonally, only Xperia (Sony's main consumer phone/tablet line) is unlockable. Their other Android devices (such as their TVs) are not unlockable.

     

       
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1. Dial `*#*#7378423#*#*` in the dialer.

     

       
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2. Tap "Service Info", then "Configuration", then "Rooting Status".

     

       
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3. Under Rooting Status look for "Bootloader unlock allowed"

     

       
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4. If "Yes", then the device is unlockable.

     

       
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For devices made [before 2019][TA patch 2019], Sony devices have a partition called `TA`, which contains files needed for things such as enhanced camera image processing, DRM keys, and display enhancements. Upon unlocking the bootloader, this partition is wiped and these features are lost, even on re-locking. If running Android Marshmallow or earlier, you can [back up][TA backup] the partition. 

     

       
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Sony supports [Custom AVB](../../README.md#custom-avb-keys) Since 2020.

     

       
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[Sailfish OS]:https://shop.jolla.com/

     

       
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[Unlock Service]:https://developer.sony.com/open-source/aosp-on-xperia-open-devices/get-started/unlock-bootloader

     

       
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[service-menu-gone]:https://www.reddit.com/r/SonyXperia/comments/qir0ze/what_happened_to_the_service_menu/

     

       
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[TA patch 2019]:https://www.reddit.com/r/SonyXperia/comments/1199y1j/what_are_the_consequences_of_getting_rid_off_the/

     

       
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[TA backup]:https://together.jolla.com/question/168711/xperia-x-backup-ta-partition-before-unlocking-bootloader/