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Yes. In most jurisdictions, unlocking your own phone is legal. Japan passed laws allowing unlocking in 2015, though au makes it difficult. You are modifying your own hardware.
To remove the network lock on an SOV33:
If you don't have a specific FTF file, you can use these official Sony methods: Xperia Companion
Select using the volume buttons and confirm with the Power button. Removing FRP Lock (Google Account Lock) sony sov33 lock remove ftf better
Navigate to the left pane and select -> SOV33 (au) . Select the available firmware version from the middle pane.
always remove the Factory Reset Protection (FRP) Google account lock. If you are stuck at the Google sign-in after flashing, you may need a separate bypass method involving specific APKs like "Technocare". Alternative: Xperia Companion If you find Flashtool too complex, Sony's official Xperia Companion software offers a Software Repair : Yes
Simply download the SOV33 FTF from XperiFirm and flash it back. The lock will return, but you can re-flash the G8141 FTF again later.
If your Google account was active, you may still face a Google FRP (Factory Reset Protection) lock after the reboot, which requires the original account credentials to bypass. You are modifying your own hardware
Because Sony removed DRM keys, you cannot unlock the bootloader officially on SOV33 without losing camera quality. Therefore, the "better" method involves staying on Android 8 (Oreo) or using a patched kernel.
: You must enter "Flash Mode" by turning off the phone and holding the Volume Down button while connecting it to your PC via USB. The "FRP" Limitation : While FTF flashing removes screen locks, it