Samsung is not a fan of Verizon's bootloader locking policy, releasing Developer Edition Galaxy S III

We all know the story with Verizon and there complete and utter fear of unlocked bootloaders. They even came out and said they don’t want them unlocked because it will create anÂ nonuniformÂ experience between users. We are pretty sure the users that would care enough about an unlocked device don’t really care about the Verizon experience, just the service. Now Samsung is answering the call in the only fashion they can. They are releasing a full on Verizon CDMA with LTE Galaxy S III with an unlockable bootloader. This is awesome for developers to get their hands on, and even Verizon customers who are looking to get more out of it. All of this is assuming you don;t mind the $600 price tag. At least it is the same device and you won’t have a nasty contract. On the downside, Verizon won’t be able to support you if you break anything. Score one for Samsung though.

Don’t go grabbing your credit cards just yet though, the SamsungÂ Galaxy S III Developer Edition isn’t available, but it is coming. Check out the Q&A Engadget go a hold of with a few answers.

Q&A

Who is this for?

Samsung and Verizon Wireless recognize that there are many enthusiasts and professional developers that are interested in customizing their device with third-party ROM software. Unlocking the bootloader can put the stability of the phone in jeopardy; therefore, only experienced developers should attempt to unlock the bootloader.

What about the other carriers?

Other versions of the Galaxy S III are sold with a user-unlockable bootloader as a standard feature. Those models are available directly from the respective carriers.

Where can I buy the Galaxy S III Developer Edition?

The Developer Edition will be sold online directly from Samsung. When the device is available for purchase, it will be sold through the Samsung developer portal at developer.samsung.com

Why is Verizon Wireless’ version locked?

Depending on the device, an open boot loader could prevent Verizon Wireless from providing the same level of customer experience and support because it would allow users to change the phone or otherwise modify the software and, potentially, negatively impact how the phone connects with the network. The addition of unapproved software could also negatively impact the wireless experience for other customers. Unlocking the device also voids the warranty.

Has Samsung always unlocked the bootloader on its phones?

While not all previous Samsung Android devices have had an easily unlockable bootloader, all of our other current Galaxy S III flagship lineup, and all Nexus-branded devices, support the standard bootloader unlocking procedure.

What happens if I load custom software and damage (“brick”) my phone?

Problems caused by your unlocking the bootloader and installing custom software will not be covered by the warranty. Problems with third-party and customized bootloader software can cause irreparable harm to the Galaxy S III. Users interested in performing these actions should proceed with caution and at their own risk. Out of warranty Galaxy S III Developer Edition devices will be serviced directly through Samsung, and service charges will apply.