OnePlus devices require an unlock token from OnePlus before you can officially unlock the bootloader. While this may seem like an extra step, it’s actually a key advantage over other manufacturers.
For OnePlus 8/9/10 users, you can sometimes downgrade to an early OxygenOS 11 build using the MSM Download Tool (a unbrick tool that resets your phone to factory firmware). Early OOS 11 builds on these devices did not require a token.
Risky but better workflow:
Warning: This method is better for freedom but worse for stability. You risk bricking if you use the wrong MSM package. please flash unlock token first oneplus better
If you’ve ever tried unlocking your OnePlus bootloader or flashing a new ROM, you might have run into the frustrating message:
“Please flash unlock token first.”
Don’t worry—this doesn’t mean your phone is broken. It’s just OnePlus’s security feature telling you that you haven’t completed the official unlock process correctly. Here’s how to fix it and get back on track. OnePlus devices require an unlock token from OnePlus
Download and flash the token:
After 7 days, OnePlus emails you a .bin file. Flash it:
fastboot flash unlock_token Unlock_token.bin
If successful, you see OKAY [ 0.XXs].
Finally unlock:
fastboot flashing unlock
Use the volume keys to confirm on the phone screen. The device will wipe all data and reboot.
User on XDA with a OnePlus 8 (T-Mobile variant) tried:
fastboot oem unlock
Got:
FAILED (remote: 'Please flash unlock token first')
They then:
So the “oneplus better” solution was: skip the token, convert to global firmware via MSM, then unlock.