How to Unlock Bootloader and Root Google Nexus 7 [GUIDE]

Google Nexus 7 is the first Android tablet to debut Jelly Bean onboard. Together with a power-packed hardware configuration - armed with latest quad-core processor - and a budget-friendly price, it is the most desirable Android tablet in the market at the moment.

Users could further boost the tablet's credentials by rooting it and installing custom ROMs. However, to do this, it is necessary to unlock the device's bootloader. Thanks to XDA senior member WugFresh, it is now possible to unlock the tablet's bootloader using a Graphical User Interface (GUI). It is no longer necessary to remember vague commands to unlock bootloader through ADB, which should make it easier for less tech-savvy users.

Key Points to Note

• This guide pertains to the Google Nexus 7 model only and will not work with any other models. The instructions provided in this guide are for reference purpose only.
• IBTimes UK will not be held responsible for any cases of your device warranty being void or damage caused to your device as a direct consequence of unlocking its bootloader or rooting it. Users should proceed at their own risk.

Installation Requirements

• Google Nexus 7
• A Windows PC
• Download the Google Nexus 7 Toolkit (NexusRootToolkit.v1.5.2.sfx.exe, md5sum: 0558d6aad855d048bcb319bcff3271ce) and save it to the desktop on your computer.
• It is advisable to backup all your important personal data on your phone to avoid loss of data (eg, contacts, SMS, MMS, Internet settings, Wi-Fi passwords, and the like), in case such data is erased while performing the procedure in this guide.

Here is a step-by-step guide to unlock bootloader and root Google Nexus 7 [Courtesy: Android Authority]:

How to Unlock Nexus 7 Bootloader

Step 1: Launch NexusRootToolkit.v1.5.2.sfx.exe that was saved to the desktop on your computer.

Step 2: Now, connect your Nexus 7 tablet to your computer using an USB cable.

Step 3: Navigate to the model number type, tap Change button and select the exact model number of your tablet.

Step 4: Hit the Unlock button, and then press Ok button to confirm unlock action for your tablet's bootloader.

Step 5: Wait for a couple of seconds and your tablet should automatically boot into Bootloader Mode.

Step 6: Once the tablet boots up, you will see a prompt message on the screen saying "Unlock bootloader?" Now, select Yes and press the tablet's Power button to confirm the selection. Wait for a couple of seconds while your tablet gets unlocked, after which it should reboot itself.

How to Root Google Nexus 7

Step 1: Launch NexusRootToolkit.v1.5.2.sfx.exe from the desktop on your computer.

Step 2: Tap the Root button to initiate rooting process on your tablet. As an alternative, you can also install ClockworkMod (CWM) Recovery by selecting the Permanent CWM option.

Step 3: Press Ok button to confirm and begin rooting your tablet. By default, your tablet should automatically reboot itself into Bootloader Mode. At this point, the program will load the necessary bootable files to your tablet, like BusyBox, su binaries, the Superuser.apk, and the rooting script.

Step 4: Now, your tablet should automatically reboot into Fastboot Mode. Wait for a couple of seconds, while the program finishes loading the essential rooting files.

Step 5: Disconnect your Nexus 7 device from your computer.

Step 6: Locate the Superuser application on your tablet and launch it to update the binaries.

Step 7: Finally, launch BusyBox and get root access on your device.

This ends the rooting process, and you have successfully unlocked your Google Nexus 7 tablet.