Modifying your HTC One M9 can be a lot of fun, especially experimenting with new custom ROMs, mods, kernels and custom recoveries. Since HTC One M9 is based on the Android open source platform, things that can be done with the device are endless. You can customize the phone to the extent that no one will be able to recognize the device software-wise.
If you are thinking about getting into the world of flashing ROMs and mods, there is one thing that you have to do before, and that is unlocking the bootloader of your HTC One M9. A locked bootloader means that you cannot do anything with the phone as far as software modification is concerned.
Luckily, unlocking the HTC One M9 is a very simple process to do because HTC has set a dedicated website for unlocking bootloaders. In comparison, it is very difficult to unlock other device’s bootloaders because OEMs and carriers do not publish guides on how to do so. Follow the detailed guide below to unlock the bootloader of your HTC One M9.
How To Unlock Bootloader of HTC One M9
Warning: Unlocking the bootloader of your device voids warranty and you will not get official support from HTC. Everything on your phone’s internal storage will be deleted including applications, pictures and photos.
Since unlocking the bootloader causes loss of all data stored on the phone, it is recommended to make a full backup of all important files and store them on an external SD Card on PC.
Step 1: Create an account on HTC Dev
Go to HTC Dev and create an account. Then you have to go to your email address to verify your account. Once you have verified you account, go back to HTC Dev and select Unlock Bootloader > Get Started to begin with the unlocking process.
Step 2: Get Identifier Token
Go to the ADB folder on your PC and open command prompt (Shift + Right Click). Turn the phone off and boot into Bootloader Mode by pressing Power and Volume Down buttons at the same time. Once you are in Bootloader Mode, enter the following code:
fastboot oem get_identifier_token
Copy the token, go here and head over to My Device Identifier Token, paste the text and click Submit.
Step 3: Unlock HTC One M9 Bootloader
An e-mail will be sent to your account with a file called Unlock_code.bin. Download the file and move it to the ADB folder on your PC. Open Command Prompt again and enter the following code:
fastboot flash unlocktoken Unlock_code.bin
A warning will appear on your phone asking if you want to unlock the booloader or not. Click yes. This will unlock the bootloader of your HTC One M9 and you will be able to root the device and install ROMs.