Just last week, Android users chimed in when Motorola asked its Facebook fans what applications it would like to see next from developers. Not doubt the handset manufacturer was hoping to receive responses such as Netflix; instead the bulk of the respondents asked for an unlocked bootloader which is necessary for rooting and flashing your Android device.
According to AusDroid, Motorola has listened to its customers and will ship its future handsets with an unlocked bootloader, similar to the Motorola Xoom. This information comes from a correspondence between a Motorola customer and a company representative as shown below:
We completely understand the operator requirement for security to the end user, and as well, want to support the developer communities desire to use these products as a development platform. It is our intention to enable the unlockable/relockable bootloader currently found on Motorola XOOM across our portfolio of devices starting in late 2011, where carriers and operators will allow it.
Though this not an official statement, AusDroid claims to have information directly from the handset manufacturer that suggests this could be true. Of course, we couldn’t help but notice the disclaimer at the bottom that notes an unlcoked bootloader will be available on those carriers and operators that allow it. This certainly gives them some wiggle room to lock down select models and lay the blame on the carrier and not themselves.