Overview

• The One UI 8 update eliminates the OEM Unlocking developer option on Galaxy S25 series, Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 devices running beta or stable builds.
• Users who upgrade to One UI 8 report that previously unlocked bootloaders become automatically relocked upon installation of the new firmware.
• By removing and re-locking bootloaders, Samsung confines users to its stock software environment and prevents rooting, custom ROMs and kernel tweaks.
• Samsung has offered no official rationale for the bootloader changes, leaving enthusiasts without clarity on security or carrier requirements.
• The move reflects a broader industry shift toward tighter software control despite extended OS support promises of up to seven years from Samsung.