Hello
I have run into a roadblock while trying to install /e/OS on my Pixel 4a (sunfish). The device is carrier-unlocked (originally from Verizon); but during the installation process specifically when attempting to flash the recovery image I get the error:
fastboot: error: flashing is not allowed for critical partitions 
Iāve already unlocked the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock, and OEM Unlock is enabled in Developer Options. Despite that; this error halts the flashing process entirely.
After some digging, it seems certain carrier firmware buildsāeven when unlockedākeep this critical partition protection enabled via bootloader flags. 
Iām wondering if anyone has found a clean way to bypass or reset those restrictions (e.g., via patching or downgrading bootloader versions). Checked Setup - /e/OS community IoT Training guide related to this and found it quite informative.
A few threads mention reverting to a stock Google image to remove carrier overlays, but I havenāt found a definitive guide specific to /e/ installs. It would be helpful if the install docs could mention this edge case for users coming from US carrier variants.
Thank you!! 