Zenfone 9 Unlock — Bootloader

Unlike some phones that use a simple fastboot command, Asus requires a specific app to generate the unlock key.

You are now ready to flash TWRP, install Magisk, or flash a custom ROM on your Zenfone 9

As of April 2026, the official method to unlock the bootloader on the Asus Zenfone 9 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

is officially discontinued and unavailable to users at home.  Current Status of Unlocking 

Official Server Shutdown: In August 2023, ASUS removed the official unlocking tool from their website and shut down the servers required for the process.

Paid Service Offer: In late 2024 and 2025, reports emerged of ASUS offering a paid service (approximately $200/€185) to unlock the bootloader if the device is sent to their repair centers.

Update Restrictions: Recent firmware updates (e.g., version 33.0804.2060.189) were reportedly released to block unofficial unlocking methods and prevent firmware downgrading.  Warning: Risks of Unlocking 

If you find a way to unlock (official or otherwise), be aware of the following: 

Unable to unlock Bootloader on Zenfone 9 and Zenfo... - ASUS

The ASUS Zenfone 9 bootloader unlock status has shifted from an officially supported feature to a highly restricted one. While ASUS initially provided a dedicated tool for this, the official server-based method was disabled in mid-2023. Current Unlocking Status (2026) zenfone 9 unlock bootloader

Official Tool Disabled: The official "Unlock Device App" (an APK provided by ASUS) no longer works because it requires connection to ASUS servers that have been taken down for maintenance and never restored for the Zenfone 9.

Paid Service Alternative: As of late 2024 and 2025, ASUS reportedly offers bootloader unlocking as a paid service through their official repair centers in some regions (such as Europe) for approximately $205 (€185).

Warranty Voidance: Officially unlocking the bootloader through ASUS—or any third-party method—voids the manufacturer's warranty. Features of Unlocking the Bootloader

Unlocking the bootloader on the Zenfone 9 allows for deep system modifications that are otherwise blocked:

The official bootloader unlock tool for the ASUS Zenfone 9 is currently unavailable, as ASUS has disabled the servers required for the process. Forums - Linus Tech Tips

While ASUS originally provided an official app to unlock their devices, they suspended the service in

. Despite initial claims that it would return, the official tool remains offline for the Zenfone 9 and subsequent models. Forums - Linus Tech Tips Current Status and Alternatives Official Tool Status

: The ASUS Unlock Device App no longer functions because the backend servers needed to authorize the unlock are deactivated. Third-Party Paid Services

: Reports indicate that some official ASUS service centers in Europe may offer to unlock bootloaders for a fee (roughly $200 USD / €185 EUR Unlike some phones that use a simple fastboot

), though this is not a standard consumer-facing policy and availability varies by region. Unofficial Methods

: As of early 2026, there is no reliable, free software-based workaround or "exploit" to bypass the requirement for ASUS's official server handshake. Forums - Linus Tech Tips Key Considerations Before Attempting If a method becomes available, keep these risks in mind: : Unlocking the bootloader typically voids your manufacturer warranty

: The process triggers a factory reset, wiping all personal data from the device.

: Disabling the bootloader lock makes the device more vulnerable to unauthorized firmware modifications and may disable security features like Google Play Integrity (affecting banking apps and Netflix). www.oneplus.com on forums like XDA Developers to find a workaround?

How to unlock bootloader for OnePlus smart Phone - Search Detail

As of April 2026, it is currently not possible to officially unlock the bootloader of the Asus Zenfone 9 using Asus's provided tools.

While Asus originally provided an official unlock APK for this device, they permanently discontinued the service for all models released in 2023 or earlier, including the Zenfone 9. ASUS - ZenTalk Current Official Status Service Discontinuation

: In late 2025, Asus officially confirmed that the Bootloader Unlock Tool for older models, such as the Zenfone 9, has been removed from their website due to "stability considerations". Unmaintained Servers

: The servers required for the official unlock APK to function are no longer active, rendering the original app useless. Official Stance : Despite earlier promises to bring the tool back, official Asus Support Download the UnlockBootloader_ZF9

now informs users that unlocking is no longer supported for these devices. Unofficial Methods & Challenges

There have been community-driven attempts to find workarounds, but they are increasingly difficult: Firmware Patching

: Asus has released firmware updates (e.g., version 33.0804.2060.189) specifically designed to block unofficial unlocking methods and prevent users from downgrading to older, more vulnerable firmware. Web Endpoint Shutdown : Unofficial tools that relied on the dm.asus.com/unlock/register

endpoint were effectively killed when Asus disabled that web address. Potential Risks

: Any current "one-click" unofficial tool found online should be treated with extreme caution as it may be outdated, malware-ridden, or capable of permanently bricking your device. Summary of Consequences

If you were to find a working method, be aware of the standard implications:

Unable to unlock Bootloader on Zenfone 9 and Zenfo... - ASUS

We will divide this into two phases: Phase A (preparation via ADB) and Phase B (the unlock tool).

ASUS does not provide an official tool to relock the bootloader. Attempting to lock it manually via fastboot oem lock will likely corrupt your device signature, resulting in a hard brick. If you need to return to factory state, you must flash the full stock raw firmware using ASUS’s Flash Tool, but the bootloader status may remain "unlocked."

The factory reset wiped Developer Options. Go turn them on again.