If you are seeing the error message FAILED (remote: 'Please flash unlock token first.')
on your OnePlus device, it usually means you are using a carrier-branded model (like T-Mobile) that requires an official unlock token before the bootloader can be unlocked.
Here is a guide to getting and flashing that token to fix the error. 1. Requirements for Unlocking
Before you can flash a token, your device must meet these criteria: SIM Unlocked
: Your device must already be carrier-unlocked (SIM-unlocked) by your provider. OEM Unlocking Settings > System > Developer options and enable OEM unlocking USB debugging : Unlocking the bootloader will factory reset your phone and erase all data. 2. Get Your Device Codes please flash unlock token first oneplus better
You need two pieces of information for the OnePlus unlock request: on your phone to get your IMEI. Unlock Code Reboot your phone into Fastboot mode (Power off, then hold Volume Up + Volume Down + Power). Connect to your PC and run this command: fastboot oem get_unlock_code Copy the code that appears in the terminal. 3. Request the Token Visit the official OnePlus Unlock Token Service
(or the specific T-Mobile variant page) and submit your IMEI, email, and the unlock code you just retrieved. : It typically takes 1 to 2 weeks (sometimes as fast as 7 days) for OnePlus to email you the unlock_token.bin 4. Flash the Unlock Token Once you have the file from your email, follow these steps: unlock_token.bin file in your ADB/Fastboot folder on your PC. Reboot your phone into Fastboot mode and connect it to your PC. Run the following command (replace
Once it says "OKAY," you can finally run the standard unlock command: fastboot oem unlock fastboot flashing unlock for newer models like the OnePlus 10 Pro). Use the volume keys on your phone to select "UNLOCK THE BOOTLOADER" and confirm with the power button. Pro-Tip: The "MSM Tool" Alternative
If you don't want to wait 2 weeks for a token, many users on XDA-Developers suggest using the MSM Download Tool If you are seeing the error message FAILED
The error message "Please flash unlock token first" is a specific requirement for carrier-branded OnePlus devices (most commonly T-Mobile variants) during the bootloader unlocking process. Unlike global models, these devices require a unique digital signature—an .bin file—to authorize the unlock. Why This Happens
Standard OnePlus devices can often be unlocked with a simple fastboot oem unlock command. However, carrier-branded variants (like the OnePlus 8 or 9 series from T-Mobile) have an additional security layer. The bootloader is restricted until a specific Unlock Token provided by OnePlus is flashed to the device. How to Fix the Error
To resolve this and successfully unlock your bootloader, follow these essential steps:
Sometimes users mistakenly use fastboot oem unlock or try to bypass the token. The bootloader is strict: token first, then unlock. Scenario B: You applied for a token, but
Flashing the token verifies that you are the device owner. This prevents unauthorized bootloader unlocks (e.g., if your phone is lost or stolen). OnePlus respects user freedom while keeping security intact.
OnePlus devices (especially newer models) require an official unlock token from OnePlus before you can fully unlock the bootloader. This token is tied to your device’s unique ID.
If you try to run fastboot oem unlock or fastboot flashing unlock without first obtaining and flashing that token, you’ll see the error.
In short:
You can’t just run the unlock command—you need permission from OnePlus first.