New OnePlus software updates add Samsung-style ARB with permanent brick risk

[Redaktion]

The recent ColorOS updates reportedly introduce a hardware-level Anti-Rollback Protection (ARB). It's like what Samsung implemented with Knox and can brick the OnePlus 15 and 13 if you attempt to downgrade or install a custom ROM.

https://www.notebookcheck.net/New-OnePlus-software-updates-add-Samsung-style-ARB-with-permanent-brick-risk.1208015.0.html

[citral]

This should be illegal, full stop.

Current own a cheap OnePlus but that'll be my last.

[opckieran]

So much for OnePlus. Guess I'm stuck with Pixel phones...

[so be it]

Oh, wow.. Didn't even know this was a thing.

I wonder, if only local CN devices / imports are affected or global ones too. If all, then my main reason to get a OP phone would be gone.

[correction]

It looks like it might not necessarily forbid using a custom ROM, but it must be based on the minimum required version, if the e-fuse is blown:

Many users are asking: "If I am fused, can I still flash Custom ROMs?"

CURRENT ANSWER: NO. IT WILL BRICK YOUR DEVICE.

Why?
1. It is too new: The "Fuse-Blowing" update (ColorOS 16.0.3.501+) is brand new. OxygenOS hasn't even widely pushed it yet.
2. Developer Lag: Almost ALL current Custom ROMs for OnePlus 13 / Ace 5 were built BEFORE this fuse policy was known. They are adapted for the "Old" (Unfused) firmware environment.
3. The Trigger: If your phone is fused, and you flash a current Custom ROM, the system will trigger the Anti-Rollback (ARB) mechanism due to firmware/signature mismatches.
4. The Result: HARD BRICK immediately.

Advice:
Until Custom ROM developers explicitly announce "Support for Fused Devices / New Firmware Base", DO NOT FLASH ANYTHING if you have already updated to the .501+ version. You are stuck on Stock for now.