Bricking your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro can be a daunting experience. However, with the Fastboot method, you can breathe new life into your device. This guide outlines the process to unbrick your Pixel 8 series smartphone using Fastboot, a powerful tool in Android development and debugging
Unbrick Pixel 8 and 8 Pro via Fastboot Method: Ultimate Guide
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STEP 1: Install Android SDK
Before starting, install the Android SDK Platform Tools on your PC. This official tool from Google provides ADB and Fastboot binaries, essential for this process.
- Download the Android SDK Platform Tools.
- Extract it to a convenient location on your PC, creating the
platform-tools
folder
STEP 2: Download Pixel 8/Pro Firmware
Your bricked device will require its stock firmware to be reinstalled.
- Download the factory image for your specific device model:
- Pixel 8 [Shiba] Factory Image
- Pixel 8 Pro [Husky] Pro Factory Image
- Extract the downloaded firmware inside the
platform-tools
folder
STEP 3: Boot Pixel 8/Pro to Fastboot Mode
To enter Fastboot Mode:
- Power off your device by long-pressing the power button.
- Then press and hold the Power and Volume Down keys for a few seconds until the Fastboot Mode appears
STEP 4: Flash Firmware
There are two methods to flash firmware: With Data Format and Without Data Format.
With Data Format
This method retains your data but may not be as effective in some cases.
- Double-click on the
flash-all.bat
file in theplatform-tools
folder. - Once flashing is complete, type
fastboot reboot
in the command prompt to restart your device
Without Data Format
This method performs a clean firmware install, erasing all data but is more effective.
- Right-click on the
flash-all.bat
file and select Edit with Notepad or TextEdit. - Remove the
-w
keyword from thefastboot update
command line. - Save changes and run the modified
flash-all.bat
file. - Once done, type
fastboot reboot
in the command prompt
Also read: Google Pixel 8/8Pro Stutters And Lags in Apps Fix
Conclusion
This guide provides a comprehensive approach to unbrick your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro using the Fastboot method. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or new to Android troubleshooting, these steps should assist you in reviving your device without needing professional help. Remember to follow each step meticulously to avoid any further damage to your device.