How To Unlock Bootloader In Honor 9 Phone Site

A: No. Unlocking a Kirin 960 device breaks hardware-backed attestation. You can use Magisk modules like "Universal SafetyNet Fix" and "Play Integrity Fix" – but for banking apps, you may need to use the web version.

Only works if your HONOR 9 has Kirin 960 and is on old enough bootrom (pre-2018 manufacturing date).

Not recommended for beginners.

If your goal was simply to root or remove bloatware, consider that without bootloader unlock, you cannot root HONOR 9 (no known exploit on recent firmware). Your only practical option is paid unlock via DC-Unlocker.

Would you like a step-by-step guide for downgrading from EMUI 9 to EMUI 8 as a preparation step?

A: Technically yes (fastboot oem relock CODE), but do not do it unless you are reverting to 100% stock to sell the phone. Relocking with custom software will brick the device.

Because Huawei/Honor closed bootloader unlocks, many HONOR 9 phones cannot be unlocked anymore – especially those on EMUI 9+ or with security patches after July 2018. If the above fails, selling the phone and buying one with unlockable bootloader (Pixels, OnePlus, Xiaomi) may be easier.

If you proceed, DC-Unlocker is your best bet. Expect to pay a few euros and possibly open the phone for testpoint if software method fails.

The HONOR 9, released in 2017, remains a beloved smartphone for many enthusiasts. Its sleek glass design, dual cameras, and the Kirin 960 chipset offered a premium experience. However, for users seeking to extend the device’s life beyond official software updates—perhaps by installing LineageOS or a custom kernel—the first hurdle is unlocking the bootloader. Historically, this was a straightforward process. Today, it is a cautionary tale about corporate policy and device ownership. This essay explores the official method, the subsequent policy changes, and the unofficial (and risky) workarounds available to unlock the HONOR 9’s bootloader.

Understanding the Bootloader

Before attempting the process, one must understand the bootloader’s function. Think of the bootloader as the security guard at the entrance of your phone’s hardware. It initializes the operating system (Android) and, crucially, verifies its digital signature. If the software has been tampered with, a locked bootloader will refuse to boot, protecting the device from malware. Unlocking the bootloader disables this verification, allowing the installation of custom recoveries (like TWRP) and unofficial operating systems. It also, notably, wipes all user data and voids any remaining warranty.

The Official (Now Defunct) Method

When the HONOR 9 was first released, unlocking the bootloader was a legitimate, supported process. The steps were as follows:

This method was clean, safe, and official. However, it died in mid-2018. HONOR/Huawei, citing concerns about user security, data protection, and the "integrity of the user experience," abruptly shut down the unlock code website. No official alternative was ever provided for existing models like the HONOR 9.

The Current Reality: Unofficial and Risky Workarounds

With no official path, unlocking a HONOR 9 today requires third-party, unsupported methods. These carry significant risk and are not recommended for casual users. The two primary approaches are:

Step-by-Step (Using a Paid Service - Example Outline)

Note: This is a generic guide. Specific tools vary.

Critical Warnings

Conclusion: Should You Unlock a HONOR 9 in 2024?

The honest answer for most users is no. The official, safe method is dead. The remaining unofficial methods require technical skill, financial cost, physical risk to the device, and acceptance of serious security compromises. Unless you are an experienced Android developer who specifically needs a Kirin 960 device for low-level testing, the risks outweigh the benefits.

For the dedicated enthusiast who still wishes to proceed, the path is clear: research the current most reputable paid service (check XDA Developers forums for real-time feedback), prepare to disassemble your phone, and accept that you may end up with a glass-and-metal brick. The story of unlocking the HONOR 9 is a lesson in the fragility of user freedom on modern smartphones—a key once provided is now lost, and breaking in may cost you the lock forever.

Unlocking the bootloader on an HONOR 9 is quite difficult because Huawei (HONOR's parent company at the time) officially stopped providing unlock codes on July 25, 2018.

Since there is no official web form anymore, you have to use third-party tools or hardware "testpoint" methods to get the code. 🛠️ Methods to Unlock (2026 Status) 1. PotatoNV (Best Free Option) How to Unlock Bootloader in HONOR 9 phone

This is an open-source tool specifically for devices with Kirin 659, 655, or 960 chipsets—which includes the HONOR 9. Pros: Free and open-source.

Cons: Requires opening the phone physicaly. You have to short a "testpoint" on the motherboard to enter the low-level HUAWEI USB COM 1.0 mode.

Source: Check the PotatoNV GitHub project or discussions on XDA Developers. 2. Paid Services

If you don't want to open your phone, some paid services can still read the bootloader code via software, though their availability fluctuates.

Services: Ministry of Solutions or HCU Client are often cited by users.

Note: These typically cost between $4 and $20 and require a Windows PC. 3. Hardware "Dongles" (Professional)

Tools like Sigma Box or Unlock Tool are used by repair shops to generate codes. Unless you already own one, it’s usually cheaper to pay a remote service or a local shop to do it for you. 📝 Review: Is it worth it?

Custom ROMs: Can install newer Android versions (like LineageOS) since official support ended at Android 9.

High Risk: Method #1 requires physical disassembly; one slip can kill the motherboard.

Full Control: Allows for Rooting (Magisk) and system-level tweaks.

Data Loss: Unlocking the bootloader triggers a mandatory factory reset.

Performance: Debloating the system can make the older Kirin 960 feel snappy again.

Security: You lose Widevine L1 (HD Netflix) and some banking apps may stop working.

If you're ready to proceed, these technical guides show the specific steps for the HONOR 9 and similar Kirin devices: Honor 9 STF-L09 EMUI9 TWRP and Root (Android 9) 4K views · 6 years ago YouTube · Ministry Of Solutions

: This puts the phone into a low-level "USB COM 1.0" mode. You then use A: No

to flash a temporary bootloader and set a new 16-digit unlock code of your choice. 3. Alternative Paid Services

For those unwilling to open their phone, third-party paid services like HCU-Client DC-Unlocker

may still function for certain firmware versions. These services typically require a fee and specific software to read or generate the code via a USB connection. 4. Completing the Unlock via Fastboot

Once you have obtained a code (either through PotatoNV or a paid service), the final step is performed through standard Android tools: Honor 9 Lite EMUI 9.1 TWRP and Root LLD-L31/L21/L22/AL10

Unlocking the bootloader on an Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

is a complex and high-risk process because the official method was permanently discontinued years ago. Since July 2018, HONOR and its former parent company, Huawei, stopped providing the necessary unlock codes to consumers. 1. The Legacy Status of HONOR 9 Unlocking

In the past, users could simply request a 16-digit unlock code from the Official Huawei/HONOR Portal. Today, that official service is defunct. For an HONOR 9, which typically runs on a Kirin 960 chipset, the only remaining paths involve third-party software or advanced hardware exploits. 2. Required Preparation

Before attempting any method, you must prepare the device. Note that unlocking wipes all user data.

Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About Phone and tap Build Number seven times.

Toggle Critical Settings: In Settings > System > Developer Options, enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging.

Install PC Tools: Download the Android Platform Tools to use ADB and Fastboot commands. 3. Unofficial Unlocking Methods

Because official codes are unavailable, users must rely on specialized tools:

Unlocking the bootloader on an HONOR 9 is a two-part process: obtaining a unique 16-digit unlock code and then using ADB/Fastboot commands on a computer to apply it. 

Important Warning: Unlocking the bootloader will factory reset your phone, erasing all internal data. Additionally, Huawei/HONOR officially terminated their unlock code service in July 2018, so official codes are no longer provided.  Phase 1: Obtaining the Unlock Code 

Since official channels are closed, you must use third-party methods to find your 16-digit code. You will need your device's IMEI, Serial Number, and Product ID (found by dialing *#*#1357946#*#* on your phone). 

Open-Source Tools: PotatoNV is a popular open-source tool for Kirin-based devices like the HONOR 9. It may require opening the device to access "testpoints".

Paid Services: Services like DC-Unlocker or other third-party retailers can often generate these codes for a fee.  Phase 2: Preparing the Phone  How to Unlock Bootloader in HONOR 9 phone?, How To

Unlocking the Bootloader on HONOR 9: A Step-by-Step Guide

The HONOR 9 is a powerful and feature-packed smartphone that has gained a significant following worldwide. However, one of the key advantages of Android devices is the ability to customize and modify them to suit individual preferences. Unlocking the bootloader is the first step towards gaining ultimate control over your device, allowing you to install custom ROMs, kernels, and other modifications. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of unlocking the bootloader on your HONOR 9 phone.

Warning:

Before we begin, it's essential to note that unlocking the bootloader will void your device's warranty. Additionally, the process may potentially brick your device if not performed correctly. Therefore, proceed with caution and at your own risk.

Required Materials:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Enable Developer Options and OEM Unlocking

Step 2: Install Fastboot and ADB Drivers

Step 3: Boot into Fastboot Mode

Step 4: Obtain an Unlock Code

Step 5: Unlock the Bootloader

Step 6: Verify Bootloader Status

Conclusion

Unlocking the bootloader on your HONOR 9 phone is a straightforward process that requires some technical expertise and caution. By following these steps, you can gain ultimate control over your device and explore the world of customization and modification. However, remember to proceed with caution and at your own risk, as unlocking the bootloader will void your device's warranty.

Additional Tips and Recommendations:

To unlock the bootloader of an HONOR 9, you must navigate a landscape where official support has been discontinued since 2018. Because the official unlock portal is closed, you generally have two paths: using third-party software that may require physical disassembly or paying for a third-party code service. Preparation & Warnings

Data Loss: Unlocking the bootloader will factory reset your phone. Back up all data first.

Warranty: This process typically voids your manufacturer warranty.

Requirements: Ensure you have a PC with ADB and Fastboot drivers installed. Option 1: The "PotatoNV" Method (Free/Open Source)

This is the most reliable free method for the HONOR 9 (Kirin 960 chipset), but it requires opening the phone to access a "testpoint".

Unlocking the bootloader on an is a complex process because Huawei (HONOR's former parent company) officially discontinued its bootloader unlock code service in

. Today, you must rely on third-party software or hardware-level exploits. Current Methods for Unlocking (2026) 1. The PotatoNV Method (Free & Open Source)

This is the most reliable method for the HONOR 9, which uses the Kirin 960 chipset

. It works by using a "software testpoint" to bypass security. Requirements: You must be comfortable disassembling the phone to access a specific test point on the motherboard. The Process: Open the back cover and locate the HONOR 9 STF testpoint

Short the testpoint to the iron shield (ground) while connecting it to a PC. PotatoNV tool to generate and set a new 16-character unlock code.

The phone will then recognize this custom code for the standard unlock command. 2. Paid Third-Party Services If you don't want to open your device, paid services like DC-Unlocker HCU-Client

are historical alternatives, though their compatibility with the latest security patches varies. The Process:

You pay for credits, connect the phone in a specialized mode (often "Manufacturer Mode"), and the tool reads or provides the code for you. The Unlock Procedure (Once You Have a Code)

Once you have obtained a code from PotatoNV or a paid service, the manual unlocking steps are as follows: Not recommended for beginners