Google May Limit AI Features on Android Phones with Unlocked Bootloaders, Pixel Devices Already Affected

For the tech-savvy Android user, unlocking the bootloader is a worthwhile endeavor, granting root access and the ability to install a range of applications or tools with special functionalities, including the option for firmware flashing if compatible firmware is available.

However, it has come to light that users of Google Pixel 8 and 9 devices experiencing disabled Google-provided AI features upon unlocking their device's bootloader, a situation not documented in Google's support files.

Applications such as Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, Call Note, and the new Pixel Weather, all of which incorporate AI functionalities powered by Google's Gemini driver, are impacted.

Furthermore, users who have unlocked their Google Pixel 9 Pro are also ineligible to participate in Google's one-year Google Gemini Advanced promotion, possibly as an anti-fraud measure or to prevent reverse-engineering of Gemini?

It's important to note that while these restrictions currently apply only to Google's own Pixel devices, many of this year’s new Android models are expected to feature built-in Google AI functionalities, possibly prompting OEMs to follow Google's lead in implementing similar restrictions.

Professional users on XDA forums have discovered that, through the installation of Magisk modules and employing spoofing techniques, it is possible to regain partial AI functionality, though results vary. The only reliable method to fully restore functionality is to unroot and relock the bootloader.

Given that Google has not mentioned this in their support documentation, Android Authority has reached out to Google for clarification.