Fix Pixel 6 Radio OFF, No Service & Airplane Mode Loop After IMEI 0 Repair

Fix Pixel 6 Radio OFF & Airplane Mode Loop After IMEI 0 Repair (April 2026 Update)

Is your Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, or Pixel 6a stuck with No Service after fixing IMEI 0? Does your phone keep turning Airplane Mode ON automatically every few seconds? When you manually turn off Airplane Mode and try to make a call, do you see the error “Radio OFF” ?

This is a known bug that appears after using IMEI/CPID repair tools on Pixel 6 series devices running the April 2026 Android security patch or newer. The good news is that this is completely fixable using a free function inside the same toolkit you already used.

In this guide, I will show you how to use the Disable Factory function in Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 to permanently fix this Radio OFF / Airplane mode loop. No additional tools, no paid services, and no repeat repairs needed.

Table of Contents

• Fix Pixel 6 Radio OFF & Airplane Mode Loop After IMEI 0 Repair (April 2026 Update)
• Table of Contents
  • 1. What is the Radio OFF / Airplane Mode Loop Issue?
  • 2. Error Symptoms
  • 3. Devices Compatible with This Fix
  • 4. Why This Happens (The April 2026 Update Bug)
  • 5. Tools Required (All Free)
  • 6. Step-by-Step Fix Guide
    • Step 1: Install Google USB Drivers
    • Step 2: Unlock Bootloader (If Not Already Unlocked)
    • Step 3: Download & Install Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3
    • Step 4: Launch Toolkit & Activate with Daily Token
    • Step 5: Boot Phone into Fastboot Mode
    • Step 6: Connect Phone to PC
    • Step 7: Navigate to Disable Factory Function
    • Step 8: Click Disable Factory Button
    • Step 9: Flash Stock Firmware
    • Step 10: Lock Bootloader
    • Step 11: Verify Service is Restored
  • 7. Video Guide (CPID/IMEI Fix Process)
  • 8. How to Avoid This Issue (For Future Repairs)
  • 9. Why This Method is Better Than Reflashing or Reset
  • 10. Important Notes
  • 11. Troubleshooting Common Issues
  • FAQ(s)
  • 13. Final Words
  • 14. Disclaimer
  • 15. Download Links Summary

1. What is the Radio OFF / Airplane Mode Loop Issue?

The Radio OFF / Airplane mode loop is a post-repair bug that affects Google Pixel 6 series devices after performing IMEI 0 (CPID) repair. The phone successfully gets its IMEI back, but the cellular radio remains disabled. The system continuously forces Airplane Mode ON, and any attempt to turn it off results in a “Radio OFF” error when calling.

This issue does not mean your IMEI repair failed. Your IMEI is still fixed. The problem is that the phone remains stuck in Factory Mode – a low-level diagnostic state that disables the cellular radio.

Above: Pixel 6 stuck with Airplane Mode ON and No Service after IMEI repair.

2. Error Symptoms

If your Pixel 6 series device has this issue, you will experience:

• No Service / No Signal in status bar
• Airplane mode turns ON automatically every few seconds
• Cannot disable airplane mode permanently – it re-enables itself after ~10 seconds
• “Radio OFF” error when attempting to make a call
• Phone works on Wi-Fi but cellular functions are dead
• IMEI shows correctly in settings (*#06#)
• Baseband version shows as “Unknown” in some cases

3. Devices Compatible with This Fix

This fix works on all Google Pixel 6 series devices regardless of storage size or region:

Android Versions Confirmed:

• Android 14 (all security patches up to March 2026)
• Android 15 (all security patches)
• Android 16 (including April 2026 update)
• Android 17 (beta/stable)

Bootloader Status Required: ✅ Unlocked (temporary requirement for fix)

4. Why This Happens (The April 2026 Update Bug)

The Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 fixes IMEI 0 by performing these steps:

1. Enables Airplane Mode (to isolate the modem)
2. Enables Factory Mode (to gain low-level NV parameter access)
3. Repairs IMEI/NV data permanently
4. Attempts to disable Factory Mode (using the standard command)

The Problem:
Starting with the April 2026 Android security patch, Google changed the protocol required to exit Factory Mode on Tensor chips (Pixel 6 series). The standard fastboot command (fastboot oem off-mode-charge 0 or similar legacy commands) no longer works on patched devices.

The Result:
Factory Mode remains ENABLED after repair → Radio stays OFF → System forces Airplane Mode ON → User sees the loop.

The Solution:
The toolkit now includes a dedicated “Disable Factory” function in the Repair Tab that sends both standard AND alternative commands to ensure Factory Mode is disabled regardless of security patch level.

5. Tools Required (All Free)

Before starting, download these free tools:

Important: The toolkit is completely free. You will need a daily activation token from the official download page. The token refreshes daily at 00:00 UTC.

6. Step-by-Step Fix Guide

Follow these steps carefully. Do not skip any step.

Step 1: Install Google USB Drivers

If you haven’t already installed Google USB Drivers:

• Launch Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3
• Go to Help & Support tab
• Click Download Google USB Drivers
• Install the drivers on your Windows PC
• Restart your computer after installation

Step 2: Unlock Bootloader (If Not Already Unlocked)

⚠️ WARNING: Unlocking the bootloader will WIPE ALL DATA on your phone. Backup your photos, contacts, and files before proceeding.

If your bootloader is already unlocked (most IMEI repair users already unlocked it), skip to Step 3.

To unlock bootloader:

1. Enable Developer Options (Settings → About Phone → Tap Build Number 7 times)
2. Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging in Developer Options
3. Boot phone to bootloader: adb reboot bootloader
4. Run command: fastboot flashing unlock
5. Confirm on phone screen using volume keys and power button
6. Phone will wipe data and reboot

Step 3: Download & Install Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3

Download the latest version from the official page: → https://gsm6.com/google-pixel-technicians-toolkit-v3-download/

Run the installer as Administrator (right-click → Run as Administrator). Follow the installation wizard. After installation, launch the toolkit from your desktop or Start Menu.

Step 4: Launch Toolkit & Activate with Daily Token

When you first launch the toolkit, it will ask for an activation token:

1. Visit the toolkit download page: https://gsm6.com/google-pixel-technicians-toolkit-v3-download/
2. Copy the daily token displayed on the page
3. Paste the token into the toolkit activation window
4. Click VERIFY

The toolkit will activate and show the main interface.

Step 5: Boot Phone into Fastboot Mode

On your Pixel 6 device:

1. Power off the phone completely
2. Press and hold Volume Down + Power buttons simultaneously
3. Release when you see the Fastboot Mode screen (green start arrow)

Alternatively, if phone is booted to system:

• Connect to PC, open command prompt, run: adb reboot bootloader

Step 6: Connect Phone to PC

Using an original USB data cable, connect your phone (in fastboot mode) to your Windows PC. The toolkit should automatically detect the device.

Above: The Disable Factory button located in Repair Tab → Fastboot Functions.

Step 7: Navigate to Disable Factory Function

In the toolkit main window:

1. Click on the Repair Tab
2. Look for the Fastboot Functions section
3. Find the button labeled “Disable Factory”

Step 8: Click Disable Factory Button

Click the Disable Factory button. The toolkit will:

1. Send the standard fastboot command to disable factory mode
2. If that fails or times out, send alternative commands
3. Show a green success message in the log window when done

Wait for the success message before proceeding. This usually takes 5-10 seconds.

Step 9: Flash Stock Firmware

After factory mode is disabled:

1. Download the correct stock firmware for your exact Pixel 6 model from Google’s official images or your preferred source
2. In the toolkit, go to the Flash Tab
3. Click Flash Factory Firmware
4. Select the firmware file you downloaded
5. Click Execute and wait for flashing to complete (5-10 minutes)

Do not disconnect the phone while flashing is in progress.

Step 10: Lock Bootloader

After flashing stock firmware successfully:

1. Keep the phone in bootloader/fastboot mode
2. In the toolkit, go to Repair Tab → Fastboot Functions
3. Click Lock Bootloader
4. Confirm on your phone screen (use volume keys to select YES, power to confirm)

The phone will reboot and wipe data (one final time). This is normal.

Above: Bootloader successfully locked after completing the fix – device state shows LOCKED.

Step 11: Verify Service is Restored

After the phone reboots:

1. Complete the Android setup wizard
2. Check the status bar – No Service should be gone
3. Turn off Airplane Mode (if it’s on)
4. Make a test call
5. Check mobile data

Your Pixel 6 should now have full cellular service with no automatic airplane mode toggling.

7. Video Guide (CPID/IMEI Fix Process)

The video below shows the complete CPID/IMEI 0 repair process using Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3. This includes steps like creating root file, flashing firmware, rooting with Magisk, and the IMEI repair itself.

After completing the steps shown in the video, follow the screenshot guide above (Steps 7-11) to fix the Radio OFF / Airplane mode loop using the Disable Factory function.

Video: Full IMEI 0 permanent fix for Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a using Toolkit V3. After video, use Disable Factory function.

8. How to Avoid This Issue (For Future Repairs)

If you are performing IMEI 0 repair on a Pixel 6 series device running April 2026 security patch or newer:

After fixing CPID/IMEI using Toolkit V3, immediately:

1. Click Disable Factory (Repair Tab → Fastboot Functions)
2. Flash stock firmware
3. Lock bootloader

Do not reboot or disconnect the phone between the IMEI repair and the Disable Factory step. Perform them in the same session.

For devices on older security patches (March 2026 or earlier) , the toolkit automatically disables factory mode correctly. The manual Disable Factory function is only required for April 2026+ patches.

9. Why This Method is Better Than Reflashing or Reset

10. Important Notes

• IMEI remains fixed – Disabling Factory Mode does NOT affect your repaired IMEI. Your IMEI will stay correct.
• Data loss warning – Unlocking and locking bootloader wipes data. Back up before starting.
• Bootloader must be unlocked – You cannot disable factory mode on a locked bootloader.
• Works on all April 2026+ updates – Including Android 16 and Android 17 beta.
• One-time fix – After disabling factory mode and locking bootloader, the issue will not return unless you re-enter factory mode through other tools.
• No paid services needed – The toolkit is completely free with daily tokens.
• Pixel 7/8/9 not affected – This specific Factory Mode protocol change currently only affects Pixel 6 series. Pixel 7 and newer use a different implementation.

11. Troubleshooting Common Issues

FAQ(s)

13. Final Words

The Radio OFF / Airplane mode loop after IMEI 0 repair is not a hardware failure and not a failed repair. It is simply a side effect of Google’s security patch changes in April 2026 that modified how Factory Mode behaves on Pixel 6 series.

With the Disable Factory function in Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3, you can permanently resolve this issue in under one minute. The fix is free, requires no additional tools, and preserves your IMEI repair.

If this guide helped you fix your phone, share it with others who might be facing the same issue. No one should have to pay $20-50 for a solution that is freely available.

Remember the golden rule for Pixel 6 repairs after April 2026:

Fix IMEI → Immediately Disable Factory → Flash Stock → Lock Bootloader

14. Disclaimer

This guide and the associated tools are provided for educational and informational purposes only. By proceeding, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• User Responsibility: You are solely responsible for any actions taken on your device. Follow the steps carefully and at your own risk. The author and GSM6.com assume no responsibility for bricked devices, lost data, dead SD cards, or any other damage that may occur.

• No Liability: The author of this guide, Abdul Malik (AM), GSM6.com, and any affiliates are not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, including but not limited to loss of data, loss of profits, or device damage arising from the use of these tools or following these instructions.

• Device Ownership: This guide is intended for users who legally own their devices and are performing repairs on their own property. Use on devices you do not own may violate local laws, including but not limited to computer fraud and abuse statutes.

• Warranty Void: Modifying device software, unlocking bootloader, and flashing custom or factory firmware may void your manufacturer warranty. Check your warranty terms before proceeding. Google and device manufacturers explicitly state that unlocking bootloader on Pixel devices voids warranty.

• Legal Compliance: IMEI repair laws vary by country. In many jurisdictions, modifying or repairing IMEI numbers on mobile phones is legal only for devices you own for the purpose of restoring original IMEI. Some countries prohibit any IMEI modification. You are responsible for knowing and following your local laws. This guide assumes you are restoring a device to its original, factory IMEI that matches the device’s sticker and original purchase documentation.

• Data Backup: While this method preserves user data during the Disable Factory step, the bootloader unlock and lock steps will erase all data. It is your responsibility to back up important data before starting. The author is not responsible for lost photos, contacts, or files.

• Driver Installation: Installing USB drivers and disabling driver signature enforcement (if required) carries inherent security risks. Only download drivers from trusted sources (links provided in this guide). Do not disable driver signature enforcement unless absolutely necessary.

• Token System: The daily activation token system is provided free of charge. Tokens refresh daily at 00:00 UTC. If a token does not work, refresh the download page and copy the new token. Token issues are not grounds for claims against the author or website.

• No Guarantee: While this method works on all Pixel 6 series devices tested (over 500+ units as of May 2026), individual device behavior may vary due to hardware differences, previous modifications, or unknown software states. The author does not guarantee 100% success on every device.

• Video Content: The embedded YouTube video is for educational purposes only. The video creator (Abdul Malik) does not promote or support illegal activity such as IMEI cloning, changing IMEI to non-original values, or repairing devices you do not own.

• Affiliate Disclosure: No affiliate links are used in this guide. All tools and downloads are direct or official mirrors. GSM6.com may display ads, but no payment is received for promoting specific products.

By reading and following this guide, you accept all terms stated above. If you do not agree with these terms, do not proceed. Seek professional repair services instead.

15. Download Links Summary

Article last updated: May 11, 2026
Tested on: Pixel 6 (oriole), Pixel 6 Pro (raven), Pixel 6a (bluejay) – Android 16 (April 2026 patch) and Android 17 DP3

Found this guide helpful? Share it on forums, Reddit, or social media to help others stuck with the same issue. Questions? Join the GSM6 Community Forum for support.