Unlocking the Bootloader

Warning

This guide is for MT6761 (Helio A22) devices only. If you have an MT8766 processor, see the MT8766 disclaimer before proceeding.

Overview

Unlocking the bootloader enables advanced modifications including custom recovery, custom ROMs, and root access. The bootloader is a security checkpoint that verifies device software—unlocking it removes these restrictions.

What you’ll accomplish

  • Unlock your device’s bootloader for advanced modifications

  • Prepare for rooting, custom ROMs, and other modifications

Warning

Data Loss Risk: Unlocking the bootloader will factory reset your device, erasing all data.

This guide uses MTKClient, an open-source tool for MediaTek-based devices.

Prerequisites

  • MTKClient installed and working

  • Python 3.9 or newer

  • USB drivers for MediaTek devices

  • Quality USB data cable

  • Developer Options enabled with OEM unlocking (see below)

Enable Developer Options

  1. Navigate to Settings → About Phone

  2. Tap Build Number seven times

  3. Go to System → Developer Options

  4. Enable OEM unlocking

  5. Enable USB debugging

Unlock Using MTKClient

  1. Launch GUI:

    python mtk_gui

  2. Power off device

  3. Navigate to “Flashing” tab → Click “Unlock Bootloader”

  4. Enter BROM mode:

    • Hold Owl/Heart button (top left) + Back button

    • While holding, plug in USB cable

    • Keep holding until device detected

  5. Wait for completion, then reset device

  1. Power off device completely

  2. Run unlock and factory reset commands in MTKClient directory:

    python mtk e metadata,userdata,md_udc
python mtk da seccfg unlock

  3. Enter BROM mode:

    • Hold Owl/Heart button (top left) + Back button

    • While holding, plug in USB cable

    • Keep holding until device detected

  4. Wait for completion (10-30 seconds)

    Note: Some users need to reconnect USB multiple times. If stuck, disconnect and re-enter BROM mode.

  5. Reboot device:

    python mtk reset

Verification

After unlocking, you’ll see an Orange State warning on boot:

Orange State
Your device has been unlocked and can't be trusted
Your device will boot in 5 seconds

This is completely normal and confirms successful unlock. Some Google Play pre-installed devices may not show this message.

Post-Unlock: Create Backup

Create a complete backup before making any modifications. You’ll need about 5GB of free disk space:

  1. Power off device

  2. Launch GUI:

    python mtk_gui

  3. Enter BROM mode (hold Owl/Heart + Back, plug USB)

  4. Go to “Read partition(s)” tab

  5. Click “Select all partitions”

  6. Optionally uncheck “userdata” (encrypted personal data)

  7. Enable “Dump GPT”

  8. Click “Read Partition(s)” and choose save location

    MTK GUI Backup Interface

  9. Back up preloader from “Flash Tools” tab

  1. Power off device

  2. Read all partitions in MTKClient directory:

    python mtk rl backup --skip=userdata

    To include userdata (encrypted personal data):

    python mtk rl backup

  3. Enter BROM mode:

    • Hold Owl/Heart button (top left) + Back button

    • While holding, plug in USB cable

    • Keep holding until device detected

  4. Wait for backup to complete

    Partitions will be saved to the backup directory in your MTKClient folder.

Troubleshooting

Device Not Detected

If MTKClient shows “Waiting for PreLoader VCOM” indefinitely:

  • Ensure MediaTek USB drivers installed properly

  • Use quality data cable (not charging-only)

  • Try different USB ports (USB 3.0/3.1 often work better)

  • Verify button combination: Owl/Heart (top left) + Back

  • Confirm device fully powered off

  • Windows: Check Device Manager for MediaTek device

  • Try Preloader mode: plug USB without holding buttons

Process Freezes

  • Unplug USB, wait 5 seconds, reconnect in BROM mode

  • Multiple reconnection attempts may be needed

  • Don’t touch cable/device during process

  • Try USB 2.0 port instead of 3.0

Relocking the Bootloader

Danger

Only relock with completely stock, unmodified system partitions. Relocking with modifications will brick your device.

  1. Restore to stock firmware

  2. Verify all partitions unmodified

  3. Power off device

  4. Run: python mtk da seccfg lock

  5. Enter BROM mode when prompted

  6. Wait for completion and reboot