How to Unlock Bootloader on Verizon Google Pixel and Pixel XL

Unlike most Google Pixel devices, the Verizon variants of the Google Pixel and Pixel XL come with a locked bootloader that cannot be unlocked through the...

Abd Razaaq

Last updated on May 31, 2026

Abd Razaaq

Author

I'm a Tech Content Writer and Full-Time blogger. Since I love Android and Google's device, I started my career in writing for Android OS and their features. This led me to start "GetDroidTips". I have completed Master of Business Administration at Mangalore University, Karnataka.

Unlike most Google Pixel devices, the Verizon variants of the Google Pixel and Pixel XL come with a locked bootloader that cannot be unlocked through the standard Fastboot method. However, thanks to the dePixel8 exploit tool developed by Sunshine, users can unlock the bootloader on these devices and gain access to advanced Android customization features.

Once the bootloader is unlocked, you can install custom ROMs, root your device with Magisk, flash custom kernels, or install custom recoveries such as TWRP. If you’re planning to customize your Verizon Google Pixel or Pixel XL, unlocking the bootloader is the first step.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete process of unlocking the bootloader on the Verizon Google Pixel and Pixel XL using the dePixel8 exploit.

Why Unlock the Bootloader?

Unlocking the bootloader gives you complete control over your device and allows you to:

Important Notes

Before proceeding, keep the following points in mind:

This guide is intended only for the Verizon Google Pixel and Google Pixel XL.

Unlocking the bootloader may void your device warranty.

Incorrectly following the instructions may cause software issues or even brick your device.

Although this process typically does not erase user data, creating a complete backup is strongly recommended.

Make sure the latest USB drivers are installed on your computer.

Enable both USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking from Developer Options before starting.

Install ADB and Fastboot

If you haven’t already installed ADB and Fastboot on your computer, download and install the latest version. Users who already have ADB and Fastboot configured can skip this step.

Step 2: Enable Developer Options

Open Settings on your device.
Navigate to About Phone.
Tap Build Number seven times until you see the message:
“You are now a developer.”
Return to Settings.
Open Developer Options.
Enable USB Debugging.
Enable OEM Unlocking.

Step 3: Prepare the dePixel8 Files

Extract the downloaded dePixel8 ZIP package.
Copy the extracted files into your ADB installation folder.

Step 4: Open Command Prompt or Terminal

Connect your Pixel device to the computer using a USB cable.
Open the ADB folder where the dePixel8 files were copied.

On Windows

Hold Shift and right-click inside the folder.
Select Open Command Window Here or Open PowerShell Window Here.

On macOS or Linux

Open a Terminal window.
Navigate to the ADB directory using the cd command.

Step 5: Run the dePixel8 Exploit

Enter the following commands one at a time:

adb push dePixel8 /data/local/tmp
adb shell chmod 755 /data/local/tmp/dePixel8
adb shell /data/local/tmp/dePixel8

After the final command executes successfully, your device should automatically reboot into Bootloader Mode.

Step 6: Unlock the Bootloader

Once your device is in Bootloader Mode, execute the following command:

fastboot oem unlock

If a confirmation screen appears on the device:

Use the Volume Up key to highlight the confirmation option.
Press the Power button to approve the unlock request.

The bootloader unlocking process will now begin.

Step 7: Reboot the Device

After the bootloader has been successfully unlocked, reboot the device using the following command:

fastboot reboot

Your Verizon Google Pixel or Pixel XL will now restart with an unlocked bootloader.

Verify Bootloader Status

To verify that the bootloader is unlocked:

Power off the device.
Boot into Bootloader Mode by pressing Volume Down + Power.
Look for the Device State information.

If it displays Unlocked, the process was successful.

What to Do Next?

Now that the bootloader is unlocked, you can:

Install TWRP Recovery
Root your device using Magisk
Flash custom ROMs
Install custom kernels
Modify system partitions
Explore advanced Android customizations

Conclusion

That’s it! You have successfully unlocked the bootloader on your Verizon Google Pixel or Pixel XL using the dePixel8 exploit tool. Unlocking the bootloader opens the door to a wide range of customization options, including rooting, custom ROM installation, and advanced system modifications.

If you encounter any problems during the process or have questions about any of the steps, feel free to leave a comment below.

Disclaimer

Unlocking the bootloader is an advanced procedure and carries certain risks. It may void your warranty and could potentially render your device unusable if performed incorrectly. Proceed entirely at your own risk, and always ensure you have a complete backup of your important data before making any modifications.

How to Unlock Bootloader on Verizon Google Pixel and Pixel XL

Why Unlock the Bootloader?

Important Notes

Prerequisites

Step 1: Download Required Files

Download dePixel8 Tool