How To Unlock Bootloader In Honor 9 Phone Portable May 2026

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 of an Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

(STF-L09/STF-L29) in 2026 is significantly different than it was at launch. Since Huawei (HONOR's former parent company) officially stopped providing unlock codes in 2018, standard methods no longer work for most users.

This article details the three primary methods available today: the hardware-based PotatoNV method, paid third-party services, and brute-force scripts. Preparation and Prerequisites

Before attempting any of these methods, you must perform the following:

Backup Data: Unlocking the bootloader triggers a factory reset, erasing all internal storage.

Battery Charge: Ensure your phone is at least 60% charged to prevent power-offs during the process.

Install Drivers: Download and install Huawei HiSuite to ensure your PC recognizes the phone. You also need ADB and Fastboot tools.

Enable Developer Settings: Go to Settings > About Phone and tap Build Number 7 times. Then, in Settings > System > Developer Options, enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking (though the latter may be greyed out on newer firmware). Method 1: PotatoNV (Recommended/Free)

PotatoNV is an open-source tool that works for the HONOR 9 because it uses the Kirin 960 chipset. This method requires opening the device but is the only reliable free option available in 2026.

⚠️ Critical Warning – Read Before Starting
Unlocking the bootloader will:

• Wipe all user data (factory reset).
• Void your warranty (if any remains).
• Make your device less secure (e.g., Android Verified Boot disabled).
• Cause SafetyNet / Play Integrity failures – banking apps, Google Pay, and some games may stop working.
• Permanently mark the device as “unlocked” in software (visible in settings).

Huawei/HONOR officially stopped providing bootloader unlock codes in May 2018. For a HONOR 9 (released 2017), official unlocking is no longer possible. You must use unofficial / paid / community methods or rely on vulnerabilities depending on your firmware version.

“OEM unlocking” option is greyed out

• Connect to internet (Wi-Fi) for at least 30 minutes – phone must phone home to Huawei servers to allow unlock.
• Wait 7–14 days of uptime (some Honor phones have a timer).
• If still greyed, your phone may be carrier-locked – unlock SIM lock first.

4. The Unlock Procedure

Once you have your 16-digit code:

1. Install ADB and Fastboot drivers on your PC.
2. Connect the Honor 9 to the PC.
3. Open a command prompt in your ADB folder and type: adb reboot bootloader (The phone will boot into a screen showing the Honor logo and "FASTBOOT&RESCUE MODE".)
4. Type the unlock command: fastboot oem unlock [YOUR-CODE-HERE] (Replace [YOUR-CODE-HERE] with the 16 digits).
5. The Confirmation: The phone screen will ask for confirmation. Use the volume keys to select UNLOCK and press the power button.

Method B (Free – but rarely works now): Try old Honor unlock website archive

• Some users in XDA forums claim a leaked Huawei/Honor unlock code generator exists, but most are malware. Avoid random online generators.

Final thoughts

Unlocking the HONOR 9 bootloader gave me flexibility and control, but it required patience and respect for the risks. If you value custom ROMs, full backups, or kernel tuning, unlocking is powerful. If you rely on warranty, bank apps, or vendor guarantees, weigh those against the benefits.

If you want, I can:

• Provide step-by-step fastboot and ADB commands tailored for HONOR 9,
• List official/unofficial sources where older code-request procedures are documented,
• Or produce a short checklist you can follow on a single printed page. Which would you like?

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) How to Unlock Bootloader in HONOR 9 phone

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:

Official bootloader unlocking for the was discontinued by Huawei in

. Because the official web portal no longer generates unlock codes, you must now use third-party hardware or software methods. HUAWEI Global HONOR 9 (STF)

chipset, which is compatible with a popular open-source tool called ⚠️ Critical Warnings : This process will factory reset your phone. Back up all data first. Hardware Risk : The most reliable modern method (PotatoNV) requires opening the phone to access a "testpoint" on the motherboard. : Unlocking the bootloader will void your warranty Method 1: PotatoNV (Recommended/Open-Source)

This method is free but requires physical disassembly of the device. 1. Preparation Huawei HiSuite HUAWEI USB COM 1.0 drivers : Download the latest release of PotatoNV from GitHub 2. Disassemble the Phone Power off the device.

Use a hairdryer to heat the back cover and carefully peel it off using a plastic card. Locate the Honor 9 STF (refer to images on the PotatoNV GitHub for the exact pin location). 3. Unlocking Procedure Connect a USB cable to your PC (but not the phone yet). Use metal tweezers to short-circuit the testpoint to the metal shield on the motherboard.

While holding the short, plug the USB cable into the phone. Wait 3 seconds, then release the tweezers. Device Manager on your PC. It should show HUAWEI USB COM 1.0 . Select your device from the list. Select the bootloader type (usually "Kirin 960"). In the "Unlock code" field, enter any 16-character string

. The phone will reboot, and the screen should indicate the bootloader is unlocked. Method 2: Paid Third-Party Services

If you are uncomfortable opening your phone, some paid tools claim to unlock the bootloader via software, though they often require older security patches to work. Unlock bootloader form - HUAWEI Community

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:

• A HONOR 9 phone with a minimum of 20% battery charge
• A computer with Windows, macOS, or Linux installed
• A USB cable
• The Huawei Unlock Code Tool (download from the official Huawei website or other reliable sources)
• The Fastboot and ADB drivers (download from the official Android website or other reliable sources)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Enable Developer Options and OEM Unlocking

1. Go to your HONOR 9's Settings app.
2. Scroll down to About phone and tap on it.
3. Tap on Build number seven times to enable Developer options.
4. Go back to Settings and select Developer options.
5. Scroll down to OEM Unlocking and toggle the switch to enable it.

Step 2: Install Fastboot and ADB Drivers

1. Download the Fastboot and ADB drivers from the official Android website or other reliable sources.
2. Extract the downloaded files to a folder on your computer, such as C:\Android\platform-tools.
3. Connect your HONOR 9 to your computer using a USB cable.

Step 3: Boot into Fastboot Mode

1. Power off your HONOR 9.
2. Press and hold the Volume down and Power buttons simultaneously for 5-7 seconds to enter Fastboot mode.
3. Release the Power button but keep holding the Volume down button.
4. Your device should now be in Fastboot mode, indicated by a screen with a Fastboot logo.

Step 4: Obtain an Unlock Code

1. Visit the official Huawei website and download the Huawei Unlock Code Tool.
2. Launch the tool and follow the on-screen instructions to generate an unlock code.
3. You will need to provide your device's IMEI number, which can be found in Settings > About phone > Status.
4. Once you have obtained the unlock code, save it for later use.

Step 5: Unlock the Bootloader

1. Open a command prompt or terminal on your computer and navigate to the folder where you extracted the Fastboot and ADB drivers.
2. Type fastboot oem unlock and press Enter.
3. You will be prompted to confirm the unlocking process. Type yes and press Enter.
4. Enter the unlock code you obtained earlier and press Enter.
5. The bootloader unlocking process will now begin. This may take a few minutes to complete.

Step 6: Verify Bootloader Status

1. Once the unlocking process is complete, reboot your device by typing fastboot reboot and pressing Enter.
2. After your device restarts, go to Settings > Developer options and verify that the OEM Unlocking option is still enabled.
3. You can also use the fastboot oem get-bootinfo command to check the 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:

• Make sure to backup your device's data before unlocking the bootloader, as the process will erase all data on your device.
• Use a compatible USB cable and ensure that your computer recognizes your device.
• Be patient and careful during the unlocking process, as incorrect steps can potentially brick your device.
• Join online communities and forums to explore the world of customization and modification for your HONOR 9 device.

Unlocking the bootloader of an HONOR 9 is the first step toward gaining full control over your device. Whether you want to install a custom ROM, flash TWRP recovery, or root your phone, this guide covers everything you need to know. Understanding the Risks and Requirements

Before proceeding, it is vital to understand that unlocking the bootloader is a significant modification.

Data Loss: Unlocking the bootloader triggers a factory reset. Back up your photos, contacts, and apps.

Warranty: This process usually voids your official manufacturer warranty.

Security: A locked bootloader ensures only signed software runs. Unlocking it makes the device slightly more vulnerable to unauthorized software.

The HONOR Challenge: Since 2018, Huawei and HONOR officially stopped providing unlock codes. You will likely need to use third-party tools or services. Prerequisites A PC with Windows 10 or 11. The original USB data cable. HONOR 9 battery charged to at least 60%. ADB and Fastboot drivers installed on your computer.

HiSuite installed (to ensure all Kirin chipset drivers are present). Step 1: Prepare the Phone Settings

To allow the computer to communicate with your HONOR 9, you must toggle specific developer options. Open Settings > About Phone.

Tap Build Number seven times until it says "You are now a developer." Go back to Settings > System & Updates > Developer Options. Enable OEM Unlocking. Enable USB Debugging. Step 2: Obtaining the Unlock Code

As mentioned, HONOR no longer provides these codes for free. To get your 16-digit bootloader unlock code, you generally have two options: To unlock the bootloader of an HONOR 9

Third-Party Services: Websites like Ministry of Solutions or Global Unlocking Solutions can provide codes for a fee. You will need to provide your IMEI and Serial Number.

Software Tools: Tools like DC-Unlocker or HCU Client are professional-grade programs that can sometimes read the code directly from the device while it is in "Manufacturer Mode." To find your IMEI, dial *#06# on your phone. Step 3: Boot into Fastboot Mode

Once you have your 16-digit code, you need to put the HONOR 9 into its bootloader interface. Power off your phone completely. Connect the USB cable to your PC, but not the phone yet.

Hold the Volume Down button and plug the cable into your phone.

Release the button when you see a white screen with a small Android robot; this is Fastboot Mode. Step 4: Run the Unlock Command Now, move to your computer to finalize the process. Open the folder where ADB and Fastboot are installed.

Hold Shift + Right Click in the folder and select "Open PowerShell window here" or "Open Command Prompt here."

Verify connection by typing:fastboot devices(You should see your device serial number listed).

Execute the unlock command (replace YOURCODE with your actual 16-digit code):fastboot oem unlock YOURCODE

A warning will appear on your HONOR 9 screen. Use the volume buttons to select "Yes" and the Power button to confirm. Step 5: Verification and Reboot

The phone will now perform a low-level factory reset and reboot. This may take a few minutes. Once it boots back to the setup screen: Go back into Developer Options.

Check the Bootloader Lock status; it should now say "Unlocked." Troubleshooting Common Issues

Command Not Found: Ensure you are running the command inside the ADB folder or that ADB is added to your System Path.

Device Not Detected: Try a different USB port (USB 2.0 is often more stable than 3.0 for fastboot) or a different cable.

Invalid Code: Double-check the IMEI you sent to the code provider. Even one wrong digit will result in a non-working code. Next Steps

Now that your HONOR 9 bootloader is unlocked, you can proceed to flash a custom recovery like TWRP to begin your journey with custom firmware and advanced system optimizations.

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 ⚠️ Critical Warning – Read Before Starting Unlocking

Step 4: After unlocking – what next?

Once unlocked, you can:

• Flash TWRP (custom recovery) – needed for Magisk root or custom ROMs.
• Install Magisk for systemless root.
• Flash LineageOS / /e/ OS / crDroid – community ROMs for HONOR 9.

Note: After unlocking, the phone will show a warning screen on boot (press Power key to continue). This cannot be removed unless you relock the bootloader (fastboot oem relock – but this will wipe data again and may brick on modified software).