In 2021, the Pixel 4a mobile phone, pre-installed with the customized ArcaneOS, emerged onto the scene. The FBI harnessed its power for global operations aimed at apprehending criminals. Fast forward 2 years, and the Pixel 6a mobile phone, equipped with an FBI custom ROM, has resurfaced. This device boasts three pre-installed applications but lacks the ability to unlock the BootLoader, a feature present in its predecessor, the Pixel 4a.
The internal version number for this FBI custom ROM is TP1A.220624.021.A1.2022121400. Interestingly, this internal version number bears a resemblance to the GrapheneOS September update version number, hinting at a possible connection to GrapheneOS.
The FBI’s custom ROM for the Pixel 6a incorporates the September security patch. The baseband version is 220720, and the BootLoader version is bluejay-1.2-8893284, suggesting that the device was manufactured shortly after the Pixel 6a’s release.
The entire initial setup process mirrors that of an ordinary AOSP-based custom ROM. Initially, users select their preferred language, followed by inputting date and time information. Next, the system checks the SIM card, and upon completion, prompts the user to create a device password.
Despite the FBI being a U.S. agency, it’s worth noting that the device bears a CE barcode on the back and is labeled with the model number G1AZG. Intriguingly, according to the Google Tensor source code, the G1AZG model is EU-specific.
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