Microsoft may render unlocked WP7 devices ‘permanently unusable’


26 Nov 2010

Microsoft has said that using a Chevron WP7, a tool to unlock Windows Phone 7 devices, could result in phones being rendered “permanently unusable.”

ChevronWP7 was recently released that allows owners to unlock their Windows Phone 7 handsets in order to load home-made applications.

The tool fools the phone into registering it as a developer device with the application as opposed to with Microsoft.

The tool may also allow piracy to occur on the device, letting users bypass the Windows Phone Marketplace. Users could download the source XAP from an XML feed, letting users get apps from this.

Speaking to WinRumors, a spokesperson noted that Microsoft was prepared for such unlocking software to hit their mobile OS.

“We encourage people to use their Windows Phone as supplied by the manufacturer to ensure the best possible user experience,” said the spokesperson.

“Attempting to unlock a device could void the warranty, disable phone functionality, interrupt access to Windows Phone 7 services or render the phone permanently unusable.”