2011 Xperia Bootloader Unlocking using SETool & Test Point (Paid)

2012-05-31: ICS + root is now available for the arc/arc s: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=huPuFmmeZHc&hd=1

This video answers common questions about the bootloader and unlocking. It also shows the three methods (2 free, 1 paid) available to unlock the 2011/2012 Xperia bootloader.

As of Q1 2013, there are NO methods to unlock the bootloader of 2012/2013 phones. If your phone has a non-removable battery and is carrier-branded, you can't unlock the bootloader.

NOTE: Unlocking your bootloader is very advanced. It allows you to modify your device at a very deep level. It can lead to BRICKING your device. If you do NOT know what you're doing, do NOT attempt this. You have been WARNED.

Unlocking your bootloader allows you to install custom ROMs (usually via http://www.clockworkmod.com), install custom kernels (e.g. overclock, pre-rooted, etc.) and other functions such as installing Sony's official Ice Cream Sandwich alpha (no radio functionality yet, only for testing: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoIsNYR7XJ8&hd=1)

ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS backup all your data before attempting to modify your phone in any way: Sony Ericsson Backup & Restore, Titanium Backup, MyBackup, etc.

Various Android applications including mirrors of all the Sony applications (Update Service, PC Companion) and BACKUP software: http://jp1.ca/androidstuff

Bootloader unlock is independent of any firmware on the phone. It is also SEPARATE from SIM/network unlock. Your phone does NOT have to be rooted. SIM unlocking your phone does NOT unlock your bootloader. Flashing your phone does NOT SIM unlock or unlock your bootloader. (However, when you unlock your bootloader with the paid method, the SIM/network unlock is also removed.) SIM/network unlocking is ONCE and PERMANENT and not affected by any firmware.

This works for ANY 2011 Xperia: arc/s, PLAY, neo, neo V, pro, mini, mini pro, ray, active, Live with Walkman.

If you're looking for information about unlocking the X10's bootloader: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1254087 This was released back in September 2011.

Bootloader info for the X8, W8, X10 mini, X10 mini pro: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1254225

Other videos (not mine):
Mini bootloader unlock video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5gyKqRjCKA
Relocking the arc bootloader: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVIUNXNbZhU
X10 mini pro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RorGuBkl7pw

There are THREE methods depending on your device's lock state. If it is a generic, (carrier) unbranded device, you can use:
#1 Official Sony Unlock: http://unlockbootloader.sonyericsson.com/
#2b: s1tool (only supports certain devices): http://androidflip.com/unlock-xperia-phones-bootloader-without-losing-drm-data-track-id-working/

READ all the instructions carefully. I am NOT responsible for what happens to your phone. This is VERY advanced. DO NOT EVEN attempt this if you ask questions like "How do I change the ringtone on my phone?"

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

If your device is NOT carrier branded, you may be able to use the FREE S1tool to unlock your bootloader. The S1tool ONLY supports the following models: X10 Xperia, E10 Mini, E15 Xperia X8, U20 Mini Pro, LT15 Xperia ARC, MT15 Xperia NEO, R800 Xperia PLAY, ST18 Xperia RAY, ST15 Xperia Mini, SK17 Xperia Mini Pro

If your device is locked (bootloader unlock not allowed), it can STILL be UNLOCKED. However, the only available method is using the PAID SE Tool, shown in this video:
#2a: http://phoneunlockserver.com/forum/index.php?/topic/7-guide-all-xperia-bootloader-unlock-unlock-sim-enable-fastboot

Jinx's contact info: http://phoneunlockserver.com/forum/index.php?/user/1-jinx13%E2%84%A2/

Where to attach the wire/paperclip/test point needles: http://androidflip.com/test-points-for-xperia-devices-xperia-arc-active-mini-mini-pro-neo-play-pro-ray/

Programs required for Jinx13's paid bootloader unlock: http://jp1.ca/androidstuff

Видео 2011 Xperia Bootloader Unlocking using SETool & Test Point (Paid) канала Jeremy Phan