Fastboot Commands to Enable & Disable Factory Mode on Google Pixel Phones
Fastboot Commands to Enable & Disable Factory Mode on Google Pixel Phones
Factory Mode is a low-level diagnostic state on Google Pixel phones that can be useful for advanced repairs but often causes problems when left enabled. If your Pixel phone is stuck with No Service, Airplane mode turning on automatically, or showing “Radio OFF” error, factory mode is likely enabled on your device.
In this guide, I will show you all the fastboot commands to check, enable, and disable factory mode on Google Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL series. If you find manual commands confusing, I also show you a one-click alternative using the free Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3.

Turn ON or OFF Factory Mode on Google Pixel (Image for reference only)
Table of Contents
- Fastboot Commands to Enable & Disable Factory Mode on Google Pixel Phones
- Table of Contents
- 1. What is Factory Mode on Pixel Phones?
- 2. Why Would You Need to Enable or Disable Factory Mode?
- 3. Prerequisites (Before Running Any Commands)
- 4. Download Required Tools and Drivers
- 5. Fastboot Commands Reference Table
- 6. Step-by-Step: Check Factory Mode Status
- 7. Step-by-Step: Enable Factory Mode (Manual)
- 8. Step-by-Step: Disable Factory Mode (Manual)
- 9. One-Click Alternative: Use Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3
- 10. Video Guide (CPID/IMEI Fix Process)
- 11. Troubleshooting Common Errors
- 12. Important Notes
- 13. Frequently Asked Questions
- 14. Final Words
- 15. Disclaimer
- 16. Download Links Summary
1. What is Factory Mode on Pixel Phones?
Factory Mode (also called Factory Test Mode) is a low-level diagnostic state built into Google Pixel phones. When enabled:
- The cellular radio is completely disabled
- Phone shows No Service or No Signal
- Airplane mode often gets stuck or toggles automatically
- Making calls shows “Radio OFF” error
- The phone enters a special state for NV parameter repairs and factory testing
Factory Mode is useful for technicians performing IMEI repairs, NV data fixes, or hardware diagnostics. However, if factory mode remains enabled after repairs, your phone becomes unusable for normal calls and mobile data.
2. Why Would You Need to Enable or Disable Factory Mode?
| Scenario | Action Needed | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| After IMEI 0 / CPID repair | Disable Factory Mode | The repair process enables factory mode. It must be disabled for radio to work. |
| Phone stuck in Radio OFF loop | Disable Factory Mode | Factory mode is likely enabled from previous repair or failed OTA update. |
| Performing NV data repairs | Enable Factory Mode | Factory mode allows low-level access to NV parameters. |
| Testing hardware components | Enable Factory Mode | Diagnostic tools require factory mode for certain tests. |
| Phone has No Service after OTA | Disable Factory Mode | April 2026 security patch broke factory mode exit on Pixel 6 series. |
Most common reason users need this guide: After fixing IMEI 0 issues on Pixel 6 series (especially after the April 2026 OTA update), the phone remains stuck in factory mode with No Service and automatic airplane mode toggling.
3. Prerequisites (Before Running Any Commands)
Before using any fastboot commands, ensure you have:
| Requirement | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windows PC (or Mac/Linux) | Required | Commands work on all operating systems |
| USB Data Cable (Original) | Required | Poor quality cables cause connection failures |
| USB Debugging Enabled | Required | Settings → Developer Options → USB Debugging |
| OEM Unlocking Enabled | Required (for disable) | Settings → Developer Options → OEM Unlocking |
| Bootloader Unlocked | Required (for disable on newer patches) | fastboot flashing unlock wipes data |
| Platform Tools (ADB/Fastboot) | Required | Download from Google or use toolkit |
| Google USB Drivers (Windows only) | Required | Download link provided below |
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: Disabling factory mode on Pixel 6 series with April 2026 security patch or newer requires alternative commands. The standard
fastboot oem disable_factory_modewill fail silently. Use the One-Click Alternative section below if manual commands fail.
4. Download Required Tools and Drivers
| Tool/Driver | Download Link | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Google USB Drivers | https://gsm6.com/samsung-android-usb-drivers-download-link/ | Required for Windows to detect Pixel in fastboot |
| Platform Tools (ADB and Fastboot) | https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools | Get from this Article |
| Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 | https://gsm6.com/google-pixel-technicians-toolkit-v3-download/ | One-click alternative (recommended) |
Note about USB Drivers: While the link above is for Samsung drivers, the same package includes Google USB drivers that work perfectly for all Pixel devices. Install them, then reboot your PC.
5. Fastboot Commands Reference Table
Here is the complete reference for all factory mode related fastboot commands on Google Pixel phones:
| Action | Command | Works On | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check factory mode status | fastboot oem device-info | All Pixels | Shows “Factory Mode: true or false” |
| Enable Factory Mode (standard) | fastboot oem enable_factory_mode | All Pixels (pre-2026) | Works on older security patches |
| Enable Factory Mode (alternative) | fastboot oem startfactorymode | Pixel 6 and newer | Alternative syntax |
| Disable Factory Mode (standard) | fastboot oem disable_factory_mode | All Pixels (pre-2026) | Fails on April 2026+ patches |
| Disable Factory Mode (alternative 1) | fastboot oem off-mode-charge 0 | Pixel 6 series | Works on April 2026+ |
| Disable Factory Mode (alternative 2) | fastboot oem clear_factory_mode | Pixel 6 and 6 Pro | Works on April 2026+ |
| Disable Factory Mode (alternative 3) | fastboot oem factory_mode off | Pixel 7, 8, 9 | Syntax for newer Tensor chips |
| Reboot to system | fastboot reboot | All Pixels | Reboot after changes |
| Reboot to bootloader | fastboot reboot bootloader | All Pixels | Reboot fastboot mode |
| Check device connection | fastboot devices | All Pixels | Should show serial number |
Command Priority Order for Disabling Factory Mode (April 2026 and newer):
Try these commands in sequence:
Command 1: fastboot oem disable_factory_mode (Standard - will likely fail)
Command 2: fastboot oem off-mode-charge 0 (Alternative 1 - often works)
Command 3: fastboot oem clear_factory_mode (Alternative 2 - Pixel 6 specific)
Command 4: fastboot oem factory_mode off (Alternative 3 - Pixel 7 and newer)
6. Step-by-Step: Check Factory Mode Status
Before enabling or disabling anything, check the current status.
Step 1: Boot phone into fastboot mode
- Power off your Pixel phone completely
- Press and hold Volume Down + Power buttons simultaneously
- Release when you see the fastboot screen (green start arrow)
Step 2: Connect phone to PC
- Use original USB data cable
- Connect phone to your computer
Step 3: Open command prompt / terminal
- Windows: Open CMD or PowerShell as Administrator
- Mac/Linux: Open Terminal
Step 4: Navigate to platform-tools folder
Windows example: cd C:\platform-tools
Mac/Linux example: cd ~/platform-tools
Step 5: Verify device connection
Type: fastboot devices
Expected output: A serial number followed by the word “fastboot”
Step 6: Check factory mode status
Type: fastboot oem device-info
Look for the line that says: Factory Mode: true OR Factory Mode: false
- If
true→ Factory mode is ENABLED (radio is OFF) - If
false→ Factory mode is DISABLED (radio should work normally)
7. Step-by-Step: Enable Factory Mode (Manual)
Use this section if you intentionally need to enable factory mode for NV repairs or diagnostics.
Prerequisite: Phone in fastboot mode (follow Steps 1-5 from Section 6)
Step 1: Run enable command
Type one of these commands:
fastboot oem enable_factory_mode
OR if that fails:
fastboot oem startfactorymode
Step 2: Verify enable was successful
Type: fastboot oem device-info
You should see: Factory Mode: true
Step 3: Reboot phone
Type: fastboot reboot
After reboot, your phone will have No Service and radio disabled. This is normal when factory mode is enabled.
8. Step-by-Step: Disable Factory Mode (Manual)
Use this section if your phone is stuck with No Service, Radio OFF, or automatic airplane mode toggling.
Prerequisite: Phone in fastboot mode (follow Steps 1-5 from Section 6)
Step 1: Run disable commands in priority order
Start with standard command:
fastboot oem disable_factory_mode
Step 2: Check if factory mode is disabled
Type: fastboot oem device-info
If Factory Mode: false appears, skip to Step 5.
If still true, continue to Step 3.
Step 3: Run alternative command 1
fastboot oem off-mode-charge 0
Step 4: Check status again
Type: fastboot oem device-info
If still true, run alternative command 2:
fastboot oem clear_factory_mode
For Pixel 7 and newer, also try:
fastboot oem factory_mode off
Step 5: Verify factory mode is disabled
Type: fastboot oem device-info
Confirm you see: Factory Mode: false
Step 6: Reboot phone
Type: fastboot reboot
After reboot, your phone should have normal cellular service. Airplane mode will no longer turn on automatically.
9. One-Click Alternative: Use Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3
If manual commands feel complicated or keep failing, the Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 includes a dedicated Disable Factory button that automatically tries all standard and alternative commands in the correct order.
Why use the toolkit instead of manual commands?
| Feature | Manual Commands | Toolkit V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Time required | 5-10 minutes | 10 seconds |
| Command knowledge needed | Yes | No |
| Automatic command ordering | No | Yes |
| Success confirmation | Manual check | Visual confirmation |
| Error handling | None | Automatic retry |
How to use the Disable Factory function:
- Download Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 from the link below
- Install and activate with the free daily token
- Boot your Pixel phone into fastboot mode
- Connect phone to PC
- Open the toolkit and go to Repair Tab
- Click Disable Factory under Fastboot Functions
- Wait for the green success message
- Flash stock firmware and lock bootloader
For detailed step-by-step instructions with screenshots, see my complete guide:
👉 Fix Pixel 6 Radio OFF & Airplane Mode Loop After IMEI 0 Repair
Download Toolkit:
👉 Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 - Free Download
10. Video Guide (CPID/IMEI Fix Process)
The video below shows the complete CPID/IMEI 0 repair process using Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3. This process often leaves factory mode enabled, which is why you need the Disable Factory function afterward.
Why does factory mode get enabled? The toolkit enables factory mode temporarily to fix NV parameters and repair IMEI 0. On older Android versions, the toolkit automatically disables factory mode after repair. However, the April 2026 security patch changed Google’s factory mode protocol, causing the automatic disable to fail. This is why you need to manually (or with the toolkit’s button) disable factory mode after IMEI repair.
Video Tutorial
Watch this guide for visual instructions
Uploaded: May 12, 2026
Video: Full IMEI 0 permanent fix for Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a using Toolkit V3. After video, use Disable Factory function.
11. Troubleshooting Common Errors
| Error Message | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
fastboot: command not found | Platform tools not installed or PATH not set | Navigate to platform-tools folder first, or add to system PATH |
waiting for any device | Phone not detected | Reinstall USB drivers, try different USB port, check cable |
Device not unlocked | Bootloader is locked | Run fastboot flashing unlock (wipes data), then retry |
Command not allowed | OEM unlocking disabled | Enable OEM Unlocking in Developer Options |
FAILED (remote: unknown command) | Command not supported on this device | Try alternative commands from Section 5 |
| Factory mode still true after commands | April 2026+ security patch | Use alternative command 2 or 3, or use toolkit’s Disable Factory button |
| Phone bootloops after disabling | Corrupted system partition | Flash stock firmware after disabling factory mode |
fastboot oem device-info shows nothing | Fastboot version too old | Update platform tools to latest version (r35 or newer) |
12. Important Notes
Bootloader unlock requirement: Disabling factory mode on Pixel 6 series with April 2026+ security patches requires an unlocked bootloader. Unlocking wipes all data. Back up before starting.
Data loss warning: Both unlocking and locking bootloader will wipe your phone completely. The Disable Factory command itself does NOT wipe data, but the prerequisite unlock step does.
Not all commands work on all devices: Google changes fastboot commands between Android versions. If one command fails, try the alternatives in the priority order shown above.
Pixel 6 specific issue: The April 2026 security patch specifically broke factory mode exit on Tensor G1 chips (Pixel 6 series). Pixel 7 and newer use a different implementation but may still benefit from the alternative commands.
After disabling factory mode: You should flash stock firmware and relock bootloader for normal everyday use. An unlocked bootloader with disabled factory mode will work, but banking apps and Google Pay may fail.
Command syntax is exact: Fastboot commands are case-sensitive and must be typed exactly as shown. One wrong character and the command will fail.
USB cable quality matters: Many “connection not detected” problems are solved by using the original Google USB cable that came with your Pixel phone.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is factory mode on Pixel phones?
Factory mode is a low-level diagnostic state that disables the cellular radio for NV parameter repairs and hardware testing. When enabled, your phone shows No Service and cannot make calls.
Q2: Why does my Pixel 6 still have factory mode enabled after running the standard command?
Google changed the factory mode protocol in the April 2026 security patch. The standard fastboot oem disable_factory_mode command no longer works on Pixel 6 series with this patch or newer. You need to use alternative commands (off-mode-charge 0 or clear_factory_mode) or the toolkit’s Disable Factory button.
Q3: Will enabling or disabling factory mode wipe my data?
No, the fastboot commands themselves do not wipe data. However, unlocking your bootloader (required for disabling factory mode on newer patches) WILL wipe all data. Also, locking bootloader after disabling factory mode will wipe data again.
Q4: Do I need an unlocked bootloader to disable factory mode?
For Pixel 6 series with April 2026 security patch or newer, yes – you need an unlocked bootloader. For older patches or Pixel 7 and newer, an unlocked bootloader may not be required. Test the commands first; if you get “Command not allowed,” you need to unlock.
Q5: How do I check if factory mode is currently enabled?
Boot to fastboot mode and run: fastboot oem device-info. Look for the line that says “Factory Mode: true” (enabled) or “false” (disabled).
Q6: My phone shows “Radio OFF” and airplane mode keeps turning on. Is this factory mode?
Yes, these are the classic symptoms of factory mode being enabled. Follow the disable steps in Section 8 to turn it off.
Q7: Can I enable factory mode on a locked bootloader?
Sometimes yes. The fastboot oem enable_factory_mode command works on many devices even with locked bootloaders. However, disabling almost always requires unlock on newer security patches.
Q8: What is the difference between factory mode and safe mode?
- Safe Mode: Disables third-party apps only. Radio and calls work normally. Entered by holding Volume Down during boot.
- Factory Mode: Disables cellular radio entirely. Used for repairs. Entered via fastboot commands only.
Q9: Will these commands work on Pixel Tablet or Pixel Fold?
Yes. The Pixel Tablet (tangorpro) and Pixel Fold (felix) use similar Tensor chips and support the same fastboot commands. However, the April 2026 factory mode issue has not been reported on these devices.
Q10: I tried all manual commands and factory mode is still enabled. What now?
Use the Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 Disable Factory button. The toolkit tries additional proprietary commands not documented in public fastboot references. Download link is in Section 4 above.
Q11: Do I need to flash stock firmware after disabling factory mode?
Yes, strongly recommended. Disabling factory mode alone may leave system partitions in an inconsistent state. Flashing stock firmware ensures everything is clean and stable.
Q12: Can I lock my bootloader after disabling factory mode?
Yes, but only after flashing completely stock firmware. Never lock bootloader on modified or custom firmware – this will brick your phone. Run fastboot flashing lock after confirming you are on official Google firmware.
Q13: Why does the video show IMEI repair? What does that have to do with factory mode?
IMEI repair tools (like Toolkit V3) temporarily enable factory mode to fix NV parameters. After repair, factory mode must be disabled. The April 2026 update broke automatic disable, which is why users end up stuck in factory mode after fixing IMEI 0.
Q14: Will future OTA updates re-enable factory mode?
No. Once factory mode is properly disabled and you lock your bootloader, future OTA updates will not re-enable it. The factory mode flag is stored in a separate partition that OTA updates do not modify.
Q15: Can I use these commands on a bricked phone that won’t boot?
No. These commands require the phone to be in fastboot mode. If your phone is completely dead (no fastboot, no recovery, no power), these commands will not work. You need EDL or JTAG repair for hard bricks.
Q16: What fastboot version do I need?
Use platform-tools version r35 (released March 2026) or newer. Older versions may not support the alternative commands. Download from the official Google link in Section 4.
Q17: I see “FAILED (remote: unknown command)” for every command. What does this mean?
Your phone’s bootloader does not recognize the command. This usually means either:
- You typed the command incorrectly (check spelling and spaces)
- Your device uses different OEM commands (rare on Pixels)
- Your bootloader is corrupted (reflash stock firmware)
Q18: Is there a way to disable factory mode without a PC?
No. Factory mode can only be toggled via fastboot commands from a computer. There is no on-device setting or dialer code to exit factory mode.
Q19: Will disabling factory mode fix my IMEI if it shows 0 or null?
No. Disabling factory mode only turns off the diagnostic state. It does NOT repair IMEI. If you have IMEI 0 (null IMEI), you need to fix that first using Toolkit V3 or another CPID repair method. After IMEI is fixed, then disable factory mode.
Q20: Can I use these commands on non-Pixel Android phones?
Some commands may work on other brands (OnePlus, Motorola, Xiaomi) but are not guaranteed. Each manufacturer uses different OEM commands. This guide is specifically for Google Pixel devices.
14. Final Words
Factory mode is a powerful but dangerous tool. When left enabled, it makes your Pixel phone unusable for calls and mobile data. The April 2026 security patch made this worse by breaking the standard disable command on Pixel 6 series.
Now you have three ways to fix it:
- Manual commands – Use the priority order of commands in Section 8
- One-click toolkit – Use Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 Disable Factory button
- Combined approach – Use manual commands, then toolkit if they fail
If you are a technician or advanced user, learning these commands is valuable. If you just want your phone working again, use the toolkit – it is faster and handles all the complexities automatically.
Remember the golden rule for Pixel 6 repairs after April 2026:
Fix IMEI → Immediately Disable Factory → Flash Stock → Lock Bootloader
15. Disclaimer
This guide and the associated commands 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 commands 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 commands 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.
Warranty Void: Unlocking bootloader, modifying software, or using fastboot commands may void your manufacturer warranty. Check your warranty terms before proceeding. Google explicitly states that unlocking bootloader on Pixel devices voids warranty.
Legal Compliance: Modifying device software may violate terms of service with your carrier. You are responsible for knowing and following all applicable agreements.
Data Backup: Unlocking and locking bootloader 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.
Command Accuracy: Fastboot commands change between Android versions and security patches. Commands provided in this guide worked at the time of writing (May 2026). Future updates may break compatibility.
No Guarantee: While these commands work 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 does not promote or support illegal activity such as IMEI cloning, changing IMEI to non-original values, or repairing devices you do not own.
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.
16. Download Links Summary
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Google Pixel Technicians Toolkit V3 (One-click disable) | https://gsm6.com/google-pixel-technicians-toolkit-v3-download/ |
| Fix Pixel 6 Radio OFF Complete Guide (with screenshots) | https://gsm6.com/pixel-6-radio-off-airplane-mode-loop-fix/ |
| Google USB Drivers (Windows) | https://gsm6.com/samsung-android-usb-drivers-download-link/ |
| Platform Tools (ADB and Fastboot) | https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools |
| Video Guide (CPID/IMEI 0 Fix Process) | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xV4Ha30fTQ0 |
| GSM6 Community Forum (Support) | https://forum.gsm6.com |
Article last updated: May 12, 2026
Tested on: Pixel 6 (oriole), Pixel 6 Pro (raven), Pixel 6a (bluejay), Pixel 7 (panther) – 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 factory mode issues. Questions? Join the GSM6 Community Forum for support.


