The Pixel 9 series unveiled at the Made by Google event 2024 managed to grab a lot of attention, but it was mainly the AI capabilities incorporated this time that were truly the star of the show. Many users have been able to get their hands on the new models and try the latest features and advancements. While it has been exciting for buyers to check the debuted AI tools for the lineup, many have shared trouble with using the features when the device's bootloader is unlocked.
Many AI features, such as Pixel Screenshots and Pixel Studio, seem to stop working when the Pixel device's bootloader is unlocked
Generally, unlocking a device's bootloader paves the way for more features as capabilities otherwise restricted can now be accessed by installing custom ROMs and even removing pre-installed bloatware. While this technique usually comes in handy, you should not try it with the Google Pixel devices, as some of the built-in AI features cease to work as a result.
Many users took it to XDA forums to share their experience with unlocking the bootloader and how it led to several features such as Pixel Screenshots, Call Notes, Pixel Studio, and even AI weather updates for the new Pixel Weather app.
Several reports claimed that the features seem to not work with the unlocked bootloader on the Pixel 8 and 9 lineup. Additionally, the Google Gemini Advanced promo gives free access to advanced capabilities but would not work when the bootloader is unlocked due to compromised device integrity.
Users have tried different fixes to resolve the ongoing issue, with some suggesting that installing Magsik modules did help them get access to a few features. In contrast, others suggested altering the device fingerprint to a Pixel 9 series model did the trick. While many workarounds tend to work, the only proper way of dealing with this hiccup is to unroot and lock the bootloader.
We are not certain as to why Google would be blocking the access of certain AI features on rooted and unlocked bootloader phones. However, it could be linked to the security and integrity verification process that is there to ensure a device is unmodified prior to certain features being allowed.
Google has not officially commented on this limitation on accessing AI capabilities claimed by some users. It is likely that company have some integrity checks in place that are causing certain AI features to be disabled for the Pixel 9 lineup. Users have a reliable fix for now until the company resolves the issue or gives a statement on it.
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