Googlebook bootloader unlock official, Magisk in the works

9to5Google reports that Google has confirmed Googlebook owners can unlock the bootloader. On a support page, Google says a developer or advanced user can unlock the device's bootloader to install a custom version of the operating system or test an app. The company also notes that most users don't need to do this.

The steps are similar to what you'd do on a Pixel or other Android phone. After enabling OEM unlocking in Settings and Developer options, you hold Esc + F2 and press the power button. Release all keys when the screen lights up. Bootloader unlock then appears under advanced options.

Magisk support is also on the way. John Wu, the Magisk developer, confirmed on Twitter/X that support for Googlebook is in the works. Wu called Googlebook “the ideal platform for Android modding,” explaining that rooted modern Android phones often have apps break, including banking apps. He says some tweaks are needed before Magisk is ready, but it's coming.

For people who like to modify their devices, this makes Googlebook a more open Android option than most current phones. If you just want a working device, you can skip the bootloader entirely.

• Android
• bootloader
• Googlebook
• John Wu
• Magisk
• root