You can unlock an Android bootloader using Termux on another Android phone, completely eliminating the need for a PC. This method relies on the android-tools package executed on a host phone connected to the target phone via an OTG cable. 🛠️ Requirements & Setup
To execute this process successfully, gather the following hardware and software elements:
Host Device: An Android phone running the Termux terminal app. Target Device: The Android phone you want to unlock. OTG Adapter & Data Cable: To physically bridge both phones.
Termux App: Download the latest builds exclusively from Termux on GitHub or F-Droid (avoid the outdated Play Store version).
Termux:API: Required to allow Termux to safely utilize your phone's native USB hardware. 📲 Step 1: Prepare the Target Phone
You must first instruct the target phone to accept external bootloader modifications.
Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About Phone and tap Build Number 7 times. unlock bootloader using termux better
Toggle Settings: Go to System > Developer Options and enable both USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking.
Boot to Fastboot: Power off the device, then hold the Volume Down + Power buttons until the Fastboot bunny or screen appears. ⌨️ Step 2: Configure Termux on the Host Phone
Open Termux on your separate host device and run the following terminal commands sequentially to establish the environment: Update packages: pkg update && pkg upgrade Install tools: pkg install android-tools Install USB API: pkg install termux-api
Note for non-rooted host devices: Stock Termux cannot communicate with raw USB ports on unrooted phones. If your host phone is not rooted, you must install custom wrappers like termux-adb on GitHub to properly bridge the standard commands to the hardware. 🔓 Step 3: Run the Unlock Commands
Physically plug the OTG adapter into the host device and run the cable to the target device (currently sitting in Fastboot mode). Inside the Termux prompt, run the following scripts: Check Connection: fastboot devices Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard
(If you see a string of numbers followed by "fastboot", your physical connection is solid.) Unlock Command (Standard): fastboot oem unlock Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard Unlock Command (Alternative for newer devices): fastboot flashing unlock Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard You can unlock an Android bootloader using Termux
⚠️ Critical Warning: Successfully executing an unlock protocol triggers a compulsory hard reset. Back up all critical files on the target device prior to running these commands, or they will be permanently erased.
Unlock Bootloader of any Device using PC or Android. - GitHub
Unlocking a bootloader using Termux is not only possible but better for advanced users needing portability, automation, or a backup method when no PC is available. The key improvements over traditional guides are:
However, this method is not for beginners – root access and understanding of fastboot protocols are mandatory. For supported devices (Pixel, OnePlus, Motorola), Termux provides a lean, powerful, and portable unlocking solution.
Unlocking an Android device’s bootloader lets you install custom recoveries, ROMs, and gain deeper control. Using Termux on-device can be a cleaner, privacy-preserving, and faster workflow than relying on a PC—especially when you can avoid cables, drivers, or third-party tooling. Below is a practical, security-minded guide and commentary on doing this “better” with Termux.
Warning: unlocking the bootloader usually voids warranty, wipes user data, and can expose the device to risks. Follow device-specific manufacturer instructions first. This guide assumes you understand those risks and have backups. Static ADB/Fastboot binaries from Google for reliability OTG
Here's where Termux shines. Modern Android supports USB accessory mode. With the termux-usb add-on, you can forward USB devices to Termux, turning your phone into a host that controls another phone.
Scenario: Phone A (running Termux) → USB-C to USB-C cable → Phone B (target to unlock).
Connect your phone to itself? No—Termux communicates internally using the Android Debug Bridge over TCP/IP (local). Run:
adb devices
You should see your device listed. If not, run:
adb kill-server
adb start-server
adb devices
A prompt will appear on your phone to allow USB debugging (even though it’s localhost). Accept it.