Universal bootloader unlock method has been found for the LG G8, G8S, G8X, and V50 ThinQ

Unlocking a bootloader, rooting a device, and flashing custom ROMs are popular hobbies here on XDA. Many users hold the ability to root in high regards, and almost find no interest in phones if they are not able to be bootloader unlocked. LG, however, has a storied history with regards to bootloader unlocking — namely, the Korean OEM prefers to allow only a handful of models to be unlocked by end-users (probably due to requirements from carriers). The modding community isn’t happy with LG’s stance, and now it seems that our impatient users found an unofficial bootloader unlock method that can be applied on nearly every variant of the LG G8 ThinQ, LG G8S ThinQ, LG G8X ThinQ, and the LG V50 ThinQ.

XDA Forums: LG G8 ThinQ || LG G8X ThinQ || LG V50 ThinQ

Based on input from XDA Senior Member cloud1250000, XDA Member Seasee606 has come up with a really innovative process to unlock the bootloader of the LG G8/G8S/G8X or the LG V50 ThinQ. However, the unofficial method isn’t as simple as you may think. It makes use of a leaked engineering bootloader, which requires you to force the target device to boot to the Qualcomm SoC’s Emergency Download Mode (EDL) and perform several low-level flashing jobs.

The underlying concept of this method is pretty much like the one used for the Sprint LG G8 ThinQ bootloader unlocking process, minus the initial part where you need to gain temporary root access using an exploit. In a nutshell, the new method doesn’t require a specific firmware, and it is even compatible with the Verizon variant of the LG G8. The engineering bootloader essentially puts the devices into a state where they are capable of accepting the regular fastboot oem unlock command without a token generated from LG’s official unlocking server.

Unlock the bootloader of the LG G8, G8X, G8S, and V50 ThinQ — XDA Thread

Since the process is a bit tricky and requires flashing via EDL mode, it’s safe to say that it isn’t meant for beginners and will most definitely void the warranty. If you want to proceed anyway, do read the thread and opening post very carefully, and execute steps with utmost precision.

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Niagara Launcher is a fresh take on the Android home screen, and it’s now out of beta

The average screen size of phones has grown exponentially over the last few years, making one-handed operation a struggle for many users. While some OEMs have implemented native one-handed modes in their custom Android skins to ease this issue, the problem is still widespread. Thankfully, the Google Play Store is home to several third-party launcher apps that can help simplify one-handed use to a great extent. Niagara Launcher is one such app that offers a fresh take on the Android home screen.

Developed by XDA Member 8bitpit and XDA Recognized Developer Maxr1998, the Niagara Launcher lays out all your apps in a clutter-free list on the home screen. The app has been available in early access on the Google Play Store for over two years now, and, in that time, it has received several new features and has gained over a million installs. After the successful beta run, the launcher is now finally launching on the stable channel. In case you haven’t tried it out yet, here’s a quick look at some of its features:

The most notable aspect of the Niagara Launcher is its minimal home screen layout. As you can see in the attached screenshots, the app gives you access to all your apps in a list on the home screen with a scroll bar next to it that lets you quickly swipe through all apps in alphabetical order. The launcher lets you customize the list to add your favorite apps at the top.

Niagara Launcher even includes an adaptive feature that brings up the right app to the top of the list, giving you easy access to incoming notifications, upcoming calendar events, and more. On top of that, it lets you quickly preview and reply to notifications with a single tap. Furthermore, the launcher comes with a built-in media widget that shows up at the top of the list for easy access. And the best part is that all these features are available for free without any ads at all.

As with other third-party launcher apps on the Play Store, Niagara Launcher also packs a ton of customization options that let you personalize almost all aspects of your phone’s home screen, right from the font color to the app icons. If you want access to even more features, you can subscribe to Niagara Pro.

The premium subscription unlocks a host of additional features, like a minimal weather widget, an integrated calendar, custom swipe actions, custom font support, Sesame integration, and the Niagara Dots icon pack. The in-app subscription can be unlocked for around €6/$6/₹100 per year, or you can get lifetime access with a one-time payment option. To commemorate the launch, the developers are offering Niagara Pro for a lower early access price of €4/$4/₹80 per year for the next few days. If you like what you see, you can download the app from the Play Store link below. You can read more about the Niagara Launcher and all of its features on its Medium blog.

Niagara Launcher fresh & clean (Free⁺, Google Play) →

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This video clearly shows why Google shelved muskie, the Pixel 2 XL manufactured by HTC

When we first heard rumors about the Pixel 2 lineup back in 2017, we learned that the company was working on two devices codenamed ‘walleye’ and ‘muskie’. Soon thereafter, we learned about a third device called ‘taimen’, which led many to believe that Google was planning on launching three Pixel devices. But that didn’t end up being the case, as Google only launched two devices that year — the HTC-made Pixel 2 (walleye) and the LG-made Pixel 2 XL (taimen). The HTC-made Pixel 2 XL (muskie) was canceled altogether, and a new hands-on video sheds some light on why that may have happened.

The hands-on video of HTC’s canceled Pixel 2 XL prototype comes from YouTuber Calyx Hikari, and it gives us a close look at its design. As you can see in the video, the prototype shares its back panel design with the LG-made Pixel 2 XL. It has the same two-tone finish with a single camera with a flash in the top left corner and a circular fingerprint scanner in the middle. But over on the front, things are completely different.

Unlike the Pixel 2 XL’s relatively slim bezels, ‘muskie’ features humongous top and bottom bezels that give it a dated look. This could probably be one of the many reasons behind Google’s decision to shelve the device. In my opinion, Google made the right choice. Because if the company went ahead with HTC’s prototype, it would’ve looked ugly in comparison with other flagships of its time.

The video further gives us a brief glimpse of the software running on the prototype using a wireless mouse, as the device doesn’t seem to have a working touchscreen. The About phone section shows that the device is running Android 8.0 Oreo with Android security patches from May 2017. It also confirms the codename ‘muskie’.

What are your thoughts on muskie? Do you think it would’ve been as well-received as the LG-made Pixel 2 XL? Let us know in the comments section below.

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The OnePlus Valentine’s Day sale has begun, so take advantage of discounts and free gifts for a loved one (or yourself)

That’s right, it’s February. Already! Time flies when you’re stuck inside due to a pandemic. Or something. Anyway, OnePlus is celebrating the start of February with the OnePlus Valentine’s Day sales event! From now until the 17th, you can save on phones and getting free goodies for the sweetheart in your life… even if that sweetheart is yourself. This includes deals on the recently released OnePlus Nord N10 5G and more!

The star of the OnePlus Valentine’s Day sale is the OnePlus 8. In addition to it being $100 off, you can buy a second and get 50% off the second phone! With each OnePlus 8 being $599, that means you can get two OnePlus 8 devices for just $898! If you’re not interested in two smartphones, though, you can pick up the OnePlus 8 5G UW from Amazon for just $550. It’s GSM and CDMA unlocked, so it works with all carriers!

BOGO 50% Off OnePlus 8

Buy at OnePlus

OnePlus 8 5G UW (Unlocked)

Buy at Amazon

Let’s not forget the OnePlus 8 Pro! The premium flagship is back to its standard sale price for the OnePlus Valentine’s Day sale–$799. However, this time you get a free Urban Traveler Backpack with purchase. Normally $79, this backpack is slim and sleek, yet has plenty of room for everything you may need for a trip. If you’ve been eyeing the OnePlus 8 Pro, this isn’t a bad incentive to finally grab one! The OnePlus store only has the Ultramarine Blue in stock, but you can go to Amazon for a black phone at the same discount. You just won’t get a backpack!

OnePlus 8 Pro (Ultramarine Blue)

Buy at OnePlus

OnePlus 8 Pro (Black)

Buy at Amazon

Finally, there is a deal on the newly released OnePlus Nord N10 5G. While there’s no discount on the device, you’ll be able to get a free case or screen protector with your purchase. If that’s not love for your smartphone I don’t know what is! The budget device is only $300 as well, so you won’t be breaking your wallet for this one!

OnePlus Nord N10 5G

Buy at OnePlus

Remember, the OnePlus Valentine’s Day sale lasts until the 17th, but that doesn’t mean stock will. Don’t delay for these sweet deals!

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Check out the best Galaxy S21 Plus thin cases you can get for your new phone

Bulky smartphone cases aren’t for everybody. If you’ve purchased one of the new Galaxy S21 series devices already, you’re probably going to be on the hunt for a case for your shiny new smartphone. It’s a beautiful smartphone, though expensive too, and you’ll want to protect it in some way, even if you don’t want to completely plaster over its design. We have all of the best thin cases for the Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus, in order to help you choose which to buy!

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus Official clear cover

Crystal clear

This is Samsung's official clear case, and it's one of the most barebones that you can get.

$19.99 at Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus Official clear protective

Crystal clear

This is Samsung's official clear protective case, providing slightly more protection.

$39.99 at Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus Official clear standing cover

Perfect for videos

This is Samsung's official clear standing case - great for watching videos with your phone propped up!

$34.99 at Samsung

Spigen Thin Fit

Spigen's thin case

Spigen is one of the best-known brands in cases, and this is the perfect thin fit for your smartphone.

$12.99 at Amazon

Ringke Air

Clear and pretty

The Ringke Air case is incredibly thin and light, and designed to add as little bulk and weight as possible.

$8.99 at Amazon

Spigen Slim Armor CS

A case and card holder!

The Spigen Slim Armor CS not only protects your smartphone with little-added bulk, but it has a card holder too.

$15.99 at Amazon

Nillkin CamShield Case

Protect your camera

Want something that'll protect your camera while not adding too much bulk? This case might do the trick.

$15.99 at Amazon

TORRAS Shockproof

Matte black

Thin and unobtrusive with a matte black finish means that it won't change much of your new phone's feel.

$19.97 at Amazon

Caseology Vault

Super slim

This case from Caseology is super slim, adding only 0.13-inches of thickness to your smartphone.

$19.97 at Amazon

All of the cases above will provide basic protection to your new smartphone, without adding a ton of bulk. Some of them will let you show off the Galaxy S21 Plus’ design, while others will put a unique spin on it. Whatever you may want, there’s a case for everybody. Spigen is one of the best names in the business, while Nillkin and Ringke also make great quality cases as well. If you are looking for other options, you can check out our other recommendations on the best Galaxy S21 Plus cases.

We do agree though, the Galaxy S21 Plus is a great phone to hold without a case. While the Galaxy S21 Ultra might reign as the king when it comes to the premium range, thanks to its subtly curved screen edge, the Galaxy S21 Plus retains its own allure with the typical glass sandwich design and a growingly-rare flat display. But accidents do happen, and they rarely come with prior notice. A case might look like a burden, but these thin cases are as minimal as you can get while still retaining some semblance of protection. You can opt for skins too, but they only offer scratch protection and not drop protection, as the metallic railing of the device remains exposed.

Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus

The Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus is the middle child in the new 2021 flagship series, packing in a flagship SoC and a premium build, along with a decent display and camera setup.

Buy from Samsung.com

Which of these Galaxy S21 thin case did you choose from? Did you have any other options that are worth the look and money?

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Stable Android 11 update finally goes live for Nokia 8.3 5G in several countries

HMD Global is kicking off the stable Android 11 rollout for the Nokia 8.3 5G. According to the company’s official timeframe, the Nokia 8.3 was supposed to receive the Android 11 update in Q4 2020, but it’s only now — one month later — that the company is fulfilling its promise. Better late than never, as the saying goes, the Nokia 8.3 5G should be more than happy to get their hands on the newest iteration of Android.

As officially announced in a post over at Nokia Community, the Android 11 update for the Nokia 8.3 5G will be delivered in two batches. The first wave is kicking off today with the update already seeding to the Nokia 8. 3 5G owners in Europe, the U.S., the UK, and several Middle East countries.

We are excited to announce the roll out of our Android 11 update plan with Nokia 8.3 5G as part of our commitment to be trusted, secure and built to last. Update available now https://t.co/Ti1TtSrUFx pic.twitter.com/HBqhHqiAEi

— Nokia Mobile (@NokiaMobile) February 2, 2021

Here is the full list of countries that will be receiving the update in the first wave:

• Bahrain
• Belgium
• Denmark
• Egypt
• Finland
• France
• Hong Kong
• Iceland
• Iran
• Iraq
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Lebanon
• Libya
• Lithuania
• Macau
• Morocco
• Norway
• Oman
• Pakistan
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Sweden
• Tunisia
• UAE
• USA
• Vietnam

A screenshot shared by Twitter user @jack_lo0 shows the update carries software version V2.180 and includes the January 2020 security patches.

All the showstopper Android 11 features are also on board, including Chat Bubbles, one-time permissions for location and microphone, Conversation Notifications, Google Play system updates, and more.

HMD Global says the update will be rolled out in phases, with 10% of the approved regions getting the OTA initially, followed by gradual expansion in the coming days. The full rollout will be completed by February 7. If your country is not on the list, don’t worry — you’ll receive the update in the second wave. The company says it will announce the details about the second wave at a later date.

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POCO M3 and Xiaomi Mi 10i / Mi 10T Lite receive unofficial TWRP ports

Unofficial builds of TWRP are now available for the POCO M3 and Mi 10i / Mi 10T Lite, making it possible for the owners of these smartphones to try out new custom ROMs, kernels, and other mods — as and when they become available.

The unofficial TWRP build for the POCO M3 comes courtesy of XDA Senior Member TheMalachite. Since this is an initial release, it will likely contain bugs and missing features. At the time, data decryption doesn’t seem to work upon the second reboot. If you’re interested and want to give it a shot, head over to the linked thread below to download the recovery image and follow along with the flashing instructions. Do make sure that your POCO M3’s bootloader is unlocked and you have access to a PC with ADB and fastboot binaries installed.

Download TWRP for POCO M3 || POCO M3 XDA Forums

Meanwhile, the TWRP build for the Mi 10i (also known as the Mi 10T Lite in some markets) comes thanks to XDA Member geoanto555. The recovery is still in the alpha stage, but it seems to be working fine, as reported by several testers in the thread. If you have a Mi 10i with an unlocked bootloader and want to try out this early build of TWRP, you can find the test build posted by the developer in the linked thread below.

Download TWRP for Mi 10i/10T Lite || Mi 10i XDA Forums

The arrival of TWRP and the recent release of kernel source code should get the development scene going for the POCO M3 and Mi 10i. Keep an eye out on the XDA forum of your device, as there will likely be many new custom ROMs and mods for you to try out in the coming weeks.

TWRP (short for Team Win Recovery Project) by far remains the most popular and widely used custom recovery for Android modders. The team recently released a new version of the recovery, which, among other improvements, adds support for devices launched with Android 10 out-of-the-box.

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