Attention aux conséquences : Déverrouiller le bootloader sur le Pixel 9 désactive des fonctionnalités AI essentielles

Unlocking the bootloader on the Pixel 9 series: A Risky Move for AI Features

Years ago, unlocking the bootloader on Android phones was more common. While far fewer people do it now, there is still a niche that likes to test advanced software modifications and more. That said, it seems that unlocking the bootloader on the Pixel 9 series is not the best idea, as doing so will disable many AI features.

Disabling AI Features on Pixel 9 Devices

Unlocking the bootloader on your Android device opens up a world of possibilities. From enabling root access to use apps and mods with amazing features to making a 1:1 copy of your device’s system that allows you to easily recover it if the software gets corrupted. It also makes it easier to install ROMs, whether official or custom. However, those with experience in the matter know that unlocking the bootloader also disables some features. For example, you cannot get official updates via OTA or use some banking apps (although there are patches to fix this).

Meanwhile, Google seems to be going a step further regarding restrictions. Buyers of Pixel 9 devices are reporting that unlocking their bootloader disables multiple AI-powered features. This is a bummer since it takes away a certain appeal from such AI-focused devices. You’ll still get the excellent camera experience and solid performance, but that’s not all you’re paying for.

According to reports, Pixel Screenshots, Call Notes, and the new Weather app are among the AI features that stop working. On the other hand, Pixel Studio continues to work without issues with the bootloader unlocked. Apparently, the affected apps do a server-side check to see if the bootloader is locked or unlocked. Perhaps in the future, the community will find ways to patch these features. However, for now, this is just speculation.

The Security Risk of Unlocking Bootloaders

Google may be restricting the operation of those AI services for security reasons. While unlocking the bootloader opens up a world of possibilities, it also makes your device more vulnerable. Malicious third parties who have physical access to your phone will have an easier time accessing your private data or installing new software to use it without problems. Therefore, the Mountain View giant would like to avoid such situations.

Source : www.androidheadlines.com