14 DAY TRIAL // Taiwanese mobile phone maker HTC Corporation is set to make some changes to its current policy regarding the bootloaders on its mobile phones.
While it has them locked at the moment, HTC promises unlocked bootloaders from now, a move that would offer users increased freedom when it comes to the software they can load on their handsets.
Lately, there have been a lot of complaints on HTC's locking of bootloaders, and the company announced a few days ago that they are looking into the matter.
A few hours ago, the handset vendor posted on Facebook a statement supposedly coming from their CEO, which unveils the aforementioned policy change.
“There has been overwhelmingly customer feedback that people want access to open bootloaders on HTC phones,” Peter Chou, CEO of HTC, stated.
“I want you to know that we've listened. Today, I'm confirming we will no longer be locking the bootloaders on our devices. Thanks for your passion, support and patience.”
This comes as great news for enthusiasts, although the announcement refers to future mobile phones from HTC, that's for sure.
Most probably, existing devices, which feature locked bootloaders, might be upgraded at a future point in time, so as to enable users easily load custom ROMs on them.
Some of the company's latest flagship models, including the HTC Incredible S, the Sensation, or their first 3D-capable device, the EVO 3D, come with locked bootloaders.
Many users were disappointed with the company's plans to have the phones locked down this way, and enthusiasts even cried out in rage.
However, it seems that the vendor does not want to lose its supporters, and the recently made announcement seems set to prove that.
Other major mobile phone makers also released their handsets with unlocked bootloaders, offering users the possibility to install their own custom ROMs on these phones. Samsung and Motorola would be among these companies.