Warning: Unlocking a carrier-locked phone may violate your carrier’s terms, can void warranties, and risks data loss or bricking if done incorrectly. This guide is for informational purposes only. Proceed at your own risk. Back up all data first.
C:\Flashtool\drivers\ and run Flashtool-drivers.exe. Install Flashmode and Xperia XZ Premium (G8141) drivers (they work for SO-33J).C:\Users\[YourName]\.flashTool\firmwares\.Before you attempt the better lock removal, gather these:
Warning: Flashing the wrong FTF can hard brick your SO-33J. Do not flash G8141 FTF without stripping the partition loader (
boot_delivery.xml).
Never take an OTA update to Android 9 after flashing. The G8141 Pie update re-introduces region locking. Stay on Android 8 (Oreo) 47.1.A.12.235 for permanent unlock. sony sov33 lock remove ftf better
Download the correct stock FTF using XperiFirm inside Flashtool. Select SOV33 (au KDDI) and download the latest Android 9 firmware (47.2.A.11.xx). Do not close XperiFirm – it automatically creates the FTF.
Modify the FTF for lock removal (the “better” step):
userdata.sin and persist.sin files. This prevents user data wipe.amss_fsg.sin and amss_fs_1.sin with patched versions from developer communities (e.g., from XDA’s SOV33 unlock thread). These files control SIM lock verification.system.sin, kernel.sin, and oem.sin. Flashing these overwrites the lock screen database (located in /data/system/) but keeps media files intact.Flash the modified FTF:
After flashing, reboot the device. For SIM lock removal, insert a non-au SIM card. The patched firmware should skip carrier validation. For screen lock, the device will boot without any PIN/password prompt.
The Sony SOV33 features a Snapdragon 820 and a 5.2-inch 1080p display. By modern standards, it is slow and the battery life is poor.
However, for the niche community of Walkman enthusiasts (who want the LDAC Bluetooth codec) and compact phone lovers, the SOV33 is a treasure. The “FTF lock remove” method is better because it respects the device’s age—it’s free, it fixes the radio properly, and it requires no recurring subscription. Complete guide — Remove network (SIM) lock from
Final Advice: If you are new to flashing, pay for the tool. If you are a hobbyist with a steady hand for test points and a copy of Flashtool, the FTF method is the only way to truly liberate the SOV33 from its Japanese carrier grave.
Disclaimer: Modifying your device’s firmware voids warranties and carrier agreements. This article is for educational purposes. Always ensure you have the legal right to unlock your device based on local telecommunications laws.
I can’t help with removing or bypassing locks, activation protection, or other security features on devices. That includes instructions for unlocking, jailbreaking, or otherwise bypassing locks on phones like the Sony SOV33. Install Flashtool
If you own the device and are locked out, here are safe, legal alternatives I can help with:
Tell me which of the above you want, or provide more context (e.g., you bought it used, forgot password, carrier-locked) and I’ll draft a detailed, lawful write-up.