Motorola backtracks: Photon 4G does not have unlocked bootloader

And so the nerd saga that is bootloaders continues. While a representative at today's Sprint-Motorola Photon 4G event in New York City was informing members of the media (us and other sites as well) that the Photon would have an unlocked bootloader, we sought out double-secret confirmation. Which we've now gotten.

According to a Motorola Global PR representative we've both e-mailed with and spoken to by phone, the Photon 4G does not have an unlocked bootloader, and it's unknown if and when it'll get one as part of the new bootloader policy.

Here's the official word:

"As we've previously communicated, it is our intention to include the unlockable/relockable bootloader in software releases starting in late 2011, where operator and channel partners will allow it. However, this feature is not included in the software found on PHOTON 4G."

There you have it, folks. What we were told at the event in NYC was incorrect. But here's to hoping things will change. And, hey, at least it still has Gorilla Glass, right?

Phil Nickinson