🚫 From August 1, 2025, new European cybersecurity legislation ends the era of custom ROMs and bootloader unlocking
New European legislation is forever changing the way we use our mobile phones.
🤔 What's happening?
Think of your phone as a house. Until now, you could change the interior design, add rooms, or even completely change the construction. This was done through a process called "bootloader unlocking."
💡 What is Bootloader (in simple terms)?
The bootloader is like the "guardian" of your phone. It decides what software is allowed to "run" on the device. When it is "locked", it only allows official software from the company (Samsung, Xiaomi, etc.).
📋 The New Rules
🔍 Detailed Changes from August 1, 2025
1. What changes from August 1, 2025
Η European Union activates a new part of the regulation RED (Radio Equipment Directive), concerning cybersecurity of all wireless devices — not just mobile phones, but also tablets, smartwatches, IoT devices, routers, and even smart home devices.
For the Android smartphones (and partly tablets) the main change is that:
- The operating system and firmware it must be digitally signed from the manufacturer.
- The device should not accept unsigned or "hacked" software. This means that the bootloader unlock and installation custom roms will become practically impossible on new devices released in the EU.
2. Why is the EU doing it?
The logic is:
- Network security: Prevent someone from installing malicious firmware that bypasses security measures.
- Data protection: Reducing the risk of personal information theft through infected software.
- Fraud prevention: It is not possible to create modified devices that falsify contact or payment information.
3. Which devices are affected?
- All the new Android devices that will be released in the EU post on August 1, 2025.
- Existing devices they will not be blocked abruptly, but if a new model or new major upgrade comes out, the manufacturer must comply.
- Apple is not affected much, because it already works with a fully locked bootloader.
4. What does it mean for the user?
- You will not be able to unlock the bootloader and install LineageOS, Pixel Experience, /e/OS, etc. (unless the manufacturer provides a special official mechanism).
- Rooting will become much more difficult or even impossible on new models.
- The device will be safer, but less free for parameterization.
5. Other relevant EU measures (June 2025)
At the same time, from June 20 2025 a separate regulation also came into force for software support and repairs:
- At least 5 years of security updates from circulation.
- 7 years spare parts available for repair.
- Goal: reduction of e-waste and better consumer protection.
🎯 Who Does It Affect?
They will not be able to install different Android versions for better performance
They lose the ability to fully control their device
Many alternative operating system projects are forced to stop
⚖️ Why Did This Happen?
The European Union mainly cites security reasons:
- 🔒 Virus protection: Only approved software can be run
- 🛡️ Privacy: Reducing malware risks
- 📜 Compliance with rules: Compliance with GDPR and other European laws
❌ What are we losing?
We cannot "upgrade" older devices with new operating systems
Limited options for personalizing the user experience
More e-waste due to faster replacement
🌍 What's Happening Worldwide?
Although the legislation is EU-wide, companies like Samsung apply the restrictions globally, affecting users all over the world. This is because it is more cost-effective to have a single model worldwide.
🤔 Is there Hope?
Some experts believe we shouldn't panic, as implementation may not be immediate in all cases. However, the trend is clear.
💡 Alternative Solutions
Although the options are limited, there are still ways to have more control:
- 🔍 Select device: Look for phones that offer more customization options
- 📱 Launchers: Use alternative work environments that change the appearance
- 🛠️ Apps: Install apps that offer more features
🔮 The Future
This change marks a new era in the world of smartphones. Security comes first, but the cost is freedom of choice. Only time will tell if this is the right balance.
Its creator LoveForTechnology.net — an independent and trusted source for tech guides, tools, software, and practical solutions. Each article is based on personal testing, evidence-based research, and care for the average user. Here, technology is presented simply and clearly.
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