Google Android 14 init_boot.img (GKI 2.0)

How to root the Google Pixel 8, 8 Pro & Pixel 8a with Magisk

Rooting guide for Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a via Fastboot. Explains Tensor G3 init_boot patching, 7-year security update maintenance, and Play Integrity fix configuration.

At a glance

Device familyGoogle Pixel 8, 8 Pro & Pixel 8a
Launch softwareAndroid 14 (7-Year Software Update Lifecycle)
ChipsetGoogle Tensor G3 (ARMv9-A, Titan M2)
Root partitioninit_boot.img (GKI Architecture)
Firmware formatOfficial Google Factory Image Zip (image-shiba / image-husky / image-akita)
Bootloader unlockDeveloper Options OEM Unlocking + Fastboot (`fastboot flashing unlock`)
Warranty / security impactUnlocking the bootloader wipes user data and may disable some hardware-backed features. It can usually be re-locked and re-flashed to stock.

Rooting method

  1. Step 1. Download the stock firmware or factory image that matches your exact build (Official Google Factory Image Zip (image-shiba / image-husky / image-akita)).
  2. Step 2. Extract init_boot.img from the package.
  3. Step 3. Copy init_boot.img to the phone, open the Magisk app, tap Install → Select and Patch a File and choose it. Magisk writes magisk_patched.img to your Download folder.
  4. Step 4. Copy the patched image back to your computer.
  5. Step 5. Reboot to the bootloader and flash it, then reboot the device.
Flash command
fastboot flash init_boot magisk_patched.img fastboot reboot

For the full workflow and prerequisites, see the installation guide and boot image patching guide.

If the device bootloops

Recovery

Hold Power + Volume Down -> Fastboot -> fastboot flash init_boot init_boot.img

More options: fix a Magisk bootloop.

Keeping root across updates

Magisk App -> Install to Inactive Slot (After OTA)

See the OTA survival guide for the full procedure.

Related

Google rooting hub

Hub

All Google models covered on this site.

Play Integrity Fix

Module

Restore device integrity for Google Wallet and banking apps after rooting.

Shamiko

Module

Hide root from apps that perform detection checks.

Root method checker

Tool

Confirm which partition to patch and generate the flash command.
Independently written from public upstream documentation. Verify every command against the official Magisk documentation and your exact device firmware before flashing. Not affiliated with the Magisk project.