The Pixel 9 series unveiled at the 2024 Made by Google event managed to attract a lot of attention, but it was the AI features included this time around that were really the star of the show. Many users were able to get their hands on the new models and try out the latest features and advancements. While it was exciting for buyers to try out the AI tools featured on the lineup, many are having trouble using the features when the device’s bootloader is unlocked.
Many AI features like Pixel Screenshots and Pixel Studio seem to stop working when the Pixel device’s bootloader is unlocked
Generally, unlocking the bootloader of a device paves the way for more features as otherwise limited functions are now accessible by installing custom ROMs and even removing pre-installed bloatware. Although this technique is usually handy, you should not try it with the Google Pixel devices as it will make some of the built-in AI features stop working.
Many users have shared their experiences with unlocking the bootloader on the XDA forums and reported how it resulted in various features like Pixel screenshots, call notes, Pixel Studio, and even AI weather updates for the new Pixel Weather app.
Several reports have claimed that the features don’t seem to work with the unlocked bootloader on the Pixel 8 and 9 series. The Google Gemini Advanced offering also provides free access to advanced features but doesn’t work if the bootloader is unlocked due to compromised device integrity.
Users have tried various solutions to fix the persistent issue. Some said that installing Magsik modules helped them access some features, while others said that changing the device fingerprint to a Pixel 9 series model did the trick. While many workarounds work, the only proper way to fix this issue is to unroot and lock the bootloader.
We’re not sure why Google blocks access to certain AI features on rooted and unlocked bootloader phones, but it could be related to the security and integrity verification process that ensures a device hasn’t been modified before allowing certain features.
Although Google has not officially commented on this restriction of access to AI features claimed by some users, the company must have performed some integrity checks that result in disabling certain AI features for the Pixel 9 series. Users have a reliable solution for now until the company fixes the issue or makes a statement about it.
