Posted by validatori 1/25/2026
If someone has physical access to your phone, you have a lot more to worry about than mere root exploits. And given those who root their devices are far out of the profile of ordinary users, so a specially targeted hack like this is pointless as compared to the regular kind of exploits in apps that can target a wider base.
From the article:
Any subsequent attempt to install older firmware results in a permanent "hard brick" - the device becomes unusable
This implies that not only does an older custom ROM not work, but neither does attempting to recover by installing a newer ROM.
In the last week or two it's been rumoured that Oppo are pulling the plug on OnePlus, and are going to wind up the brand entirely. (Although it may cling on in certain markets, like India).
Edit: It seems that this does apply to OxygenOS too: https://xdaforums.com/t/critical-warning-coloros-16-0-3-501-...
If so, is this 'fuse' per-planned in the hardware? My understanding is cell phones take 12 to 24 months from design to market. so, initial deployment of the model where this OS can trigger the 'fuse' less one year is how far back the company decided to be ready to do this?
You can still change the IMEI on many phones if you know how to.