HTC Announces Web-Based Bootloader Unlock Tool

Via its Facebook page today, HTC announced some more details about how it will unlock the bootloaders of devices that are currently selling with them locked. The tool will be web-based, require a valid email address, a device-specific token, require consent to void parts of the warranty, but then give a code which will unlock the phone's bootloader permanently. HTC stated back in July that a bootloader unlocking process was coming soon, and has now given some specifics on the timeline and which devices will see it first.

The first unlocks will start with the global HTC Sensation, followed by the HTC Sensation on T-Mobile which we reviewed recently, and finally the HTC EVO 3D on Sprint. A software update will take place before the web unlock tool goes live to prepare the devices for the unlocking process. 

Phones will continue selling with their bootloaders locked for the indefinite future because of security and warranty concerns. 

Because unlocking the bootloader provides extensive control over the device and modifications may cause operation, security and experience issues, new devices will continue to ship locked but will support user-initiated unlocking using a new Web-based tool.