Database Users

Convince me! Benefits of Custom ROMs vs Disadvantage of losing OTA

Hi all
Actually the subject speaks it self but,
As you probably know, after you install a custom ROM, you'll lose OTA eligibility which includes flash support for browser, bug fixes and much more.
Still, I know you'll keep on installing custom ROMs... So Convince me to install a custom ROM...

you lose (I was wrong you get OTA on custom roms) ota but anything OTA is gonna be on this site in seconds

When you are ready to void your warranty then install a custom ROM. What makes you think that these OTA updates won't magically find a place into custom ROMs?
With a custom ROM you get root access. You will never have root access with an OTA ROM, if you know enough about android and how to use root access then that should be enough for you.

henihazbay said:
Hi all
Actually the subject speaks it self but,
As you probably know, after you install a custom ROM, you'll lose OTA eligibility which includes flash support for browser, bug fixes and much more.
Still, I know you'll keep on installing custom ROMs... So Convince me to install a custom ROM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Chances are, anything included in an OTA update will be on XDA (by way of custom ROMS) before it hits phones via OTA. For example, multi-touch in the browser was already in Cyanogen's Rom (and possibly others). Sure, maps didn't have it, but only cause Cyanogen didn't enable it yet, posssibly because he figured Google would get to it in a short time anyway, who knows. The patch to enable full access to your memory was here first as well, and (at this time) we still don't know if today's OTA update includes this. Lots of other reasons to root, but if all you're worried about is getting OTA updates, you can stop worrying.

In fairness I've not noticed any performance increase on my Nexus One, since adding the Cyanogen rom on Sunday.
There are a few more apps, some extra options, and a really dodgy multitouch in the browser app, but I have to admit I don't really think it was worth it for me.
Fortunately I've got the nandroid backup of my stock rom, so in a week or so I'll probably restore that and get the OTA updates anyway...

the difference between cooked multitouch and the native one in the OTA is quite noticeable.
rather than estimating the pinch to zoom (like on the Hero/Sense UI) the new 2.1-update1 is extremely accurate zooming where your fingers are placed, as well as being smooth as butter.

Raymond77 said:
In fairness I've not noticed any performance increase on my Nexus One, since adding the Cyanogen rom on Sunday.
There are a few more apps, some extra options, and a really dodgy multitouch in the browser app, but I have to admit I don't really think it was worth it for me.
Fortunately I've got the nandroid backup of my stock rom, so in a week or so I'll probably restore that and get the OTA updates anyway...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is this possible? I think once you rooted, you can't get the OTAs anymore

if you are rooted but have stock bootloader and stock rom you can receive OTA updates still, and still install them aswell,

You do know that the features included in the official OTA that just was released a few days ago have already been placed into most of the available ROMs, when you root, you're really not "losing" the ability to get OTAs, you just are losing the ability to get them automatically sent to your phone. It just means you must install then manually, or, i.e, update the ROM your using.
When Flash 10.1 comes, do not worry, it will be in every ROM in a matter of hours. Or even before it is officially released - everything is possible after rooting. Also, after rooting, you are allowed to just do "more". Like have custom trackball colors, Nexus Torch, other apps that require ROOT access - and, for those who like installing different Android Builds, like Sense, that is all possible too.

rooting is more of a warranty issue then anything else.

this should do it look at the bottom 281 megs of free memory

gtrplr71 said:
this should do it look at the bottom 281 megs of free memory
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. But free memory is memory not being used for anything, so what's the point? It's an e-peen thing, like the guys who build triple SLI I7 gaming rigs with 12 gigs and use it to run WoW.
But one thing to consider is that an OTA update is generally well tested. Cooked ROMs are frequently not. The current Cyanogen 5.0 "stable" one has gone through three revisions in one day or so to correct for things that would normally be caught in a regression test pass for the "real bits."
The advantages of staying stock is that GOOG, HTC and TMO will have releases processes in place, quality gates for changes to pass, etc that the cooked rom scene does not.
The advantage of going rooted with a custom rom is you get new cool stuff sooner.
So. Root, nandroid and then try it out. If you don't like the result, restore. Done.
I'm running Cyan 5 beta 4. Have not installed the "stable" release build as I'm waiting for the bug churn to slow.

gtrplr71 said:
this should do it look at the bottom 281 megs of free memory
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What software is that?

jabreu203 said:
What software is that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Advanced Task Manager.

Looking over the whole net to get an answer to this question.
What are the benefits of going rooted and installing a custom rom?
There is totally NO answer, cause the answer that EVERYBODY gives "you gain all the benefits of have your phone rooted" is just not an answer. What ar those benefits damn?
I know there's no straight answer, but I am looking for some examples....things that will show me some actual benefits in everyday use. And please dont give me the second most popular answer "you are able to install custom Roms"....
Yes...ok....but I want examples of the benefits of that, too...
(I have rooted my phone and installed Leedroid rom......and still trying to figure out why all that fuzz...)

Theres a whole search engine out there.
You serious? You necro'd a year and a half old thread to ask this?
If you go to any custom rom thread in this forum, you will be given access to a list of features.
Or you could google the rom in question, an example might be "Cyanogenmod features"
This was the second result:
http://wiki.cyanogenmod.com/index.php?title=Features
You say you have leedroid, which makes me suspect that A: you don't have a Nexus One, and B: You should have read the first post of the thread, where the features of the custom rom are included
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=842802
Rooting gives you all the features of the custom rom you choose to install. Every rom has it's own set of features, which may explain why there is no single 'answer' you are looking for.
Rooting without installing a custom rom limits you to extra features like Nandroid back ups, and things like setCPU.

thanks for taking the time to reply. I figured that I was on a wrong phone thread only after I posted (I have HTC desire). I guess I have to spend some time with my rooted+rom phone to understand the real benefits myself.

henihazbay said:
So Convince me to install a custom ROM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you are just lazy to me. You don't want to go read up like everyone else did. I say stick w/ stock rom so you don't make another thread that asking to convince you to go to a particular rom or just a bunch of random questions that are in stickies.

If you don't root, you don't get the 'H'!! LOL
If you ask everyone the forum, why they rooted their phone, 1/2 will not know why.
Some, surprisingly, believe they need to root their phone to get the 'H' to get faster internet speed.
Some believe their 'stock, non-rooted' phone always gets 'H' and that is how it comes from the store.
Some believe that if you root your phone, it will transform into a power ranger.

There are 2 reasons to root your phone as I see it
To access hardware you otherwise couldn't
To extend the life of your device by installing the latest/greatest custom ROM
For example, a stock N1 without root access can not utilize trackball wake, so if that is important to you, gain root access to the phone.
Also, the N1 is getting a little long in the tooth by smartphone standards and Google will presumably stop pushing updates one day. So if Android v5.0 is important to you, you will need root access to install CyanogenMod 9, which might help you squeeze more functionality from the phone.
The rest is software stuff. Notification power widgets, overclocking, toggle GPS via software are all dependent on root. But these things are just "niceties" and aren't necessarily limiting your hardware, IMO.

Why Root?

I know this topic must have been beaten to a bloody death, but as a former G1/Cyanogenmod user, I'm starting to debate whether or not I should root my G2. My G1 always gave me problems when I was running Cyanogenmod. This is likely due to the now low-end specs of the device, but I have grown wary of custom roms, regardless. I can't help but worry that my device may become unstable or slow like my G1, and that I might have difficulty restoring to factory state if I need to take advantage of my warranty.
One of the primary reasons I wanted a rooted device was to be able to effectively tether. Now that my G2 has this built in, there's one less point for rooting. I don't much ever plan of going out of the country, so I have no need for a SuperCID. I don't yet see any cool toys for G2 root users, like a USB host-enabled driver. Also, my main reason for rooting my G1, apps on the SD card, is now built-in, no partitioning required.
This isn't to say that I don't appreciate all the hard work that's gone in to making this option available. I just don't know how it can apply to me.
So tell me, why do you root, what do you geek out with using root, and what do you most often use your root for?

The simple answer is don't root then. I have rooted and flashed the hell out of every android device I've ever owned, until this one, and to be honest I wouldn't mind having just having root on this, which has now gone since the latest ota, but other than that, I have no intention of flashing anything on it as it seems to be just fine for my use. The root access I want for apps like shoot me and clock sync that I use regularly now. It would be nice to have a phone and just use it, rather than spending all my time setting it back up after each new Rom I've tried on a weekly basis. So, unless you need to, don't.

So cool posts here. I have to agree. I used to geek and tweak and check out ROMs on my TP2, too. I always ended up stock WM6.1(!) because that worked best. Now coming to Android and the DZ I am just shocked how badly this RULEZ. I don't feel like tweaking anything. I wouldn't fear losing warranty, I just don't wanna root yet. Well, I miss my front cam and the qwerty keys could be bigger )
Sent from my HTC Desire Z using XDA App

root/S-OFF is useful for me right now so that I can do a nandroid backup of my phone from time to time (via Recovery Manager/Clockwork). I am very happy with my stock ROM (HTC 1.34), which is a big change from my previous WinMo Touch Pro 2, where the stock ROM sucked big time.
If you don't feel like you need root, then don't do it, simple as that !

Still havent rooted and I seem to be happy with the stock rom of the Desire Z. Still waiting it out but I do miss some of the other apps that require rooting.
I eventually will root my device and get over the fear of bricking my unit. Are there any official updates happening?
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App

kuplet said:
I eventually will root my device and get over the fear of bricking my unit. Are there any official updates happening?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a 1.72 OTA update for the Desire Z which is being pushed out. I don't know exactly where you are in the world, but this has certainly been rolled out in Europe. However, be careful, because right now rooting that updated ROM is not possible, and unless you have full radio S-OFF via gfree beforehand, you can't downgrade either once you put it on.

The "RELEASE" versions of Cyanogen have been stable as hell. Running CM 6.1.1 now. So if that's the reason why you're not doing it, take my anecdote for what it's worth.
If you don't want to root or use any of the custom ROMs then don't do it. It's your decision, not ours.

One of my biggest reasons for rooting is SetCPU. Right now, I can get my phone to last about a day and a half with minimal to moderate use. Days of heavy use it'll last at least 12hrs.
I also like having access to the system files in case I feel like messing with them.
Besides, rooting doesn't mean you have to flash a custom ROM. You can have a rooted phone with a stock ROM.

WARNING!! About latest update (8.6.5.21) and my general observation

First off anyone wanting to root do not update past 8.6.5.19 or 8.6.6.19 for the tf01g the newest firmware update from asus .21 blocks the razorclaw root exploit.
i dnt know about the rest of you but i watched this forum and others for about 2 months straight when i got my B80 tf01 waiting for a way to root...i mean everyday anxiously....to the point i was teaching myself android to see if i could figure out a way myself!! realistic or not..
the transformer isnt my first android device but ive only had a few and infact the tf01 stole me away from my ipad thankfully!!! thanx android!! But once i got root i was so happy it was literally an awesome christmas gift from rayman and the devs and asus ultimately.
Now heres where my observstions come in....whether anyone cares or not...after waiting for root like i did and finally getting it there was no wayespecially after seeing the roms out there that i was puting asus firmware back on my device...the devs will support it better and longer anyway.... why in the world would people who had root just go and OTA update and blow root, im guessing those who did are probably not meant to root and are probably safer not rooted.
I know its not the way it is but its almost like we got a little way in that only those who are advanced enough would be able to get and keep root and those not advanced enough would miss the chance or lose root.. I for one wont put anything straight from asus on my device unless devs just cant do ics which i highly doubt. more likely they will release before asus.
i used to really wonder why there were some questions not answered or the guys in the know getting aggravated about thwe questions over and over again, but not anymore i so respect these guys and totally understand where they are coming from watching people ask some of the questions ive seen in the last few days after this update so makes me get it.

Loosely put the level of noobness is amazing around this neck of the woods ?
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium

what on earth is the purpose of this post?

Were you high when you wrote this ?

After reading this post twice, I'm still confused what the purpose is.. must have been a nice trip?

I dont agree that anyone but a noob should return to stock. I regard myself pretty clued up with technology and sheer geekery and have been for thirty years, but I returned to stock due to just wanting this device to work. I had certain issues after rooting and was happy with how it worked before rooting. Now I do agree the devs here do a brilliant job, but for me, I am happy with a stock device for the time being.
Seg

not a whole lot of purpose to the post other than warning those who obviously dont know and a little bit of a rant or ramble... it is the general forum and i didnt see anything too terribly wrong with it..
if it was totally out of line then i apologize just some people amaze me sometimes.....
for those who feel stock is more reliabe more power too ya and we are all entitled to our opinions and i just disagree.... stock for me wasnt even close in peformance and obviouly control of my device was far from what i have with root.... i can return to stock anytime if needed but i cant justify it.

Since updates from asus come out pretty often i dont see any point in rooting at least not for me. I did root my nexus one though and got CM7 on it but for my TF101 i still prefer it stock since the updates come really fast and they usually breaks the root exploit and such...i think this is a personal thing, for me i'm pretty satisfied with stock..until they stop giving out updates regularly then i'll start rooting and playing with custom roms on my TF101 just like i did on my N1

mlbl said:
Since updates from asus come out pretty often i dont see any point in rooting at least not for me. I did root my nexus one though and got CM7 on it but for my TF101 i still prefer it stock since the updates come really fast and they usually breaks the root exploit and such...i think this is a personal thing, for me i'm pretty satisfied with stock..until they stop giving out updates regularly then i'll start rooting and playing with custom roms on my TF101 just like i did on my N1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also, the battery life and speed of stock is perfect to be honest.

The Transformer is my 4th android device and it's the only one so far i've NOT rooted.
Currently, I see Asus updating it regularly and I don't want to miss out on any vital updates.
With my phones, rooting was essential to make space, get rid of annoying stock apps and tether to other devices.
With the TF101 I don't see a major need for me to root.

I dont understand the point of the OP (opening post) and must say that I prefer my TF101 just as it is - unrooted and FULLY up to date.

I have a question, as I just got my tablet a couple days ago. So basically, what the OP is saying is that you can't root if you update to 8.6.5.21. I've been doing a lot of reading (this isn't my first android device), and I think I've come to conclusion that I can't root just yet. A) You have to be on a lower version than 8.6.5.21. B) Your serial number has to be B70 or lower. So, even if I downgraded to the lower version number, I still won't be able to root? (My serial number starts with B90) Thanks for your input, as I'm not going to attempt to root until I have all the facts straight.

dougstoner said:
I have a question, as I just got my tablet a couple days ago. So basically, what the OP is saying is that you can't root if you update to 8.6.5.21. I've been doing a lot of reading (this isn't my first android device), and I think I've come to conclusion that I can't root just yet. A) You have to be on a lower version than 8.6.5.21. B) Your serial number has to be B70 or lower. So, even if I downgraded to the lower version number, I still won't be able to root? (My serial number starts with B90) Thanks for your input, as I'm not going to attempt to root until I have all the facts straight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I get the point of the OP- a warning and general observations. To some extent, I agree. Because of the speed that ASUS sends out updates, it's trickier to maintain root on a stock system. If you want to run a non-rooted stock rom, then the updates are safe. If you want to run a rooted stock rom, you'll have to do some legwork to maintain root. It would probably be easier to just run a custom rom, rather than a rooted stock rom. As far as the newb questions go, I don't mind the ones that have done some homework, but I usually ignore the ones that don't even know what they are asking.
@dougstoner- either A OR B will work. For you, your only root option today is 8.6.5.19, although I'm not sure if it's possible to downgrade.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk

dougstoner said:
I have a question, as I just got my tablet a couple days ago. So basically, what the OP is saying is that you can't root if you update to 8.6.5.21. I've been doing a lot of reading (this isn't my first android device), and I think I've come to conclusion that I can't root just yet. A) You have to be on a lower version than 8.6.5.21. B) Your serial number has to be B70 or lower. So, even if I downgraded to the lower version number, I still won't be able to root? (My serial number starts with B90) Thanks for your input, as I'm not going to attempt to root until I have all the facts straight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
False.
BA0 here (means this is beyond the B# series). Bought TF a week ago, came with the dock bundle. Updated to the latest Asus FW but had no trouble using RC or CWM installer.apk
the only thing I can't really do is put it into APX mode and use NVFlash.

seven2099 said:
False.
BA0 here (means this is beyond the B# series). Bought TF a week ago, came with the dock bundle. Updated to the latest Asus FW but had no trouble using RC or CWM installer.apk
the only thing I can't really do is put it into APX mode and use NVFlash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't say false, you might have gotten lucky and got 8.6.5.19 but
keep in mind the latest update got pushed out about a week or so, the latest update for you at the time might have been 8.6.5.19 but the latest as of now is 8.6.5.21 which is not rootable with Razorclaw.
Being you have a BAO you will not be able to use NVFLash at this time.
Your BAO is just a continuation of B9O.

A continuation right the way upto F.

So, if I can downgrade to the lowest version, I can root. (if that's possible)
I can't install a custom bootloader though right? Since my serial number is too high? Basically, all I can do is root if I can get to the right version, and wait until I have NVFlash for higher serial numbers to load a custom rom? Thanks for all the replies guys. I appreciate it.

The OP could have been onto something.
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium

I always prefer root on any android device because it allows for customistions way beyond stock firmwre.until you have rooted and used a transformer running a custom firmware at 1.5ghz you have no frame of reference at all. Most custom rom devs will update their Roms using the latest Asus firmware anyway so you aren't missing out on any new stock firmware features. I wouldn't go back to stock now if you paid me! I liken it to tuning a car, stock is fine but there is nothing like remapping the ecu and it often makes the car handle better and use less fuel.

bob dylan said:
I always prefer root on any android device because it allows for customistions way beyond stock firmwre.until you have rooted and used a transformer running a custom firmware at 1.5ghz you have no frame of reference at all. Most custom rom devs will update their Roms using the latest Asus firmware anyway so you aren't missing out on any new stock firmware features. I wouldn't go back to stock now if you paid me! I liken it to tuning a car, stock is fine but there is nothing like remapping the ecu and it often makes the car handle better and use less fuel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If only for Voodoo rooting is an absolute must.

[Q] 4.2 rooted or 4.4 update?

So with the inevitable release of KitKat tomorrow, I have the quandary of upgrading or not. I understand the 4.4 will kill my root, but I really haven't used the root option due to interceding life getting in the way since I rooted it (originally I was going to use Ti Backup and go from there, but have never bought it). So losing root is not a huge deal breaker one way or another currently.
With the leaked build, does it look like a good update to do or has the current ROM users of KitKat feel it's not worth it? I'd like to get some input to help make up my mind...

scottiemedic said:
So with the inevitable release of KitKat tomorrow, I have the quandary of upgrading or not. I understand the 4.4 will kill my root, but I really haven't used the root option due to interceding life getting in the way since I rooted it (originally I was going to use Ti Backup and go from there, but have never bought it). So losing root is not a huge deal breaker one way or another currently.
With the leaked build, does it look like a good update to do or has the current ROM users of KitKat feel it's not worth it? I'd like to get some input to help make up my mind...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I own both an I337 and an M919 and, given the flexibility of the M919, I was able to try both official and leaked 4.4 TW releases mainly for the I9505. Based on those experiences I would say take the update. 4.4 update should be noticeably faster.
In regard to keeping root, I'm hoping SuperSu Pro's Survival mode works.

I'd say go with the update if you don't care about root. The only problem is Knox is more locked down, also more bloat/crap ware on the new update. I do love the camera on the lockscreen, plus the album artwork on the lock screen is a big + for me. I don't know if art is implemented into the gs4 but it does make a difference but the only thing is, is that most apps are not optimized for it yet.
Sent from my XT1058 using xda premium

So should I revert the few changes I have done? IE, I've killed startup apps with ES Task Manager and (obviously) disabled the software update checker.

I'm on the original/not locked down 4.2.2. What do I need to do, to accept the update? I too found that I don't use Root much, but T.B. would be nice to have. I have clockword installed now as a bootloader, so maybe I need to revert to stock bootloader somehow. Previous OTA's have failed.

As far as experience goes, I say wait and keep your options open. I like the freedom of a clean rom, free from bloat and clutter of apps that i dont use. Not to mention a battery life that exceeds far beyond a regular un-rooted device. Visit the numerous threads of other people's experiences. I'm rooted and have been able to try out different rooms from 4.2 to 4.4. Accepting an ota will unroot your device without anyway of reverting back. Good luck with your decision.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

aiwapro said:
I'm on the original/not locked down 4.2.2. What do I need to do, to accept the update? I too found that I don't use Root much, but T.B. would be nice to have. I have clockword installed now as a bootloader, so maybe I need to revert to stock bootloader somehow. Previous OTA's have failed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're on the not locked down version, then you shouldn't take the update. It will lock your bootloader and that device will never see an AOSP ROM again. You should wait for something like StockUp to be updated to the new 4.4 or use any of the many other 4.4 ROMs available. If you really want to get one with the stock update and locked bootloaders, I'm sure someone would love to trade.

aiwapro said:
I'm on the original/not locked down 4.2.2. What do I need to do, to accept the update? I too found that I don't use Root much, but T.B. would be nice to have. I have clockword installed now as a bootloader, so maybe I need to revert to stock bootloader somehow. Previous OTA's have failed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We were able to get the MK2 tar files rather quickly after the OTA release and will hopefully be able to get the 4.4 tars just as quickly. If that's the case you will be able to flash all partitions, except the bootloader, to run the 4.4 ROM and keep your unlocked bootloader. I would not give up the unlocked bootloader if I were you.

scottiemedic said:
So with the inevitable release of KitKat tomorrow, I have the quandary of upgrading or not. I understand the 4.4 will kill my root, but I really haven't used the root option due to interceding life getting in the way since I rooted it (originally I was going to use Ti Backup and go from there, but have never bought it). So losing root is not a huge deal breaker one way or another currently.
With the leaked build, does it look like a good update to do or has the current ROM users of KitKat feel it's not worth it? I'd like to get some input to help make up my mind...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you are not someone that really uses or needs root like us flashaholics. I love having complete control over my devices. The extraordinary battery life, increased performance, extra capabilities like tethering and so forth. If I want to delete an un-wanted app or service ( At&t navigator anyone) or try a new rom I can. With a stock rom with locked boot loaders (really an oxymoron for "open source" Android isn't it?) you have what you get, like it or not. It's sad they load these awesome devices up with so much performance killing bloat ware. It's like buying a new corvette & then attaching a loaded u-haul trailer to it. What's the point of having it if you can't use it as intended? Anyway my 2 cents worth. Choose your path wisely grasshopper, as there's no turning back.

Hello everyone!
I have been thinking about getting myself one of these lovely phones but after reading what y'all have been saying about the locked bootloader I'm not sure I want to... I won't be able to actually get a phone until next week so I'm assuming it will come already pre-loaded with this update??
I would like to be able to root this phone just like I did my old ET4G from Sprint... would this be an option if I was to get one next week?
Just an FYI I will be on the AT&T network.
ttfn
CDL

crazy_dragonlady said:
Hello everyone!
I have been thinking about getting myself one of these lovely phones but after reading what y'all have been saying about the locked bootloader I'm not sure I want to... I won't be able to actually get a phone until next week so I'm assuming it will come already pre-loaded with this update??
I would like to be able to root this phone just like I did my old ET4G from Sprint... would this be an option if I was to get one next week?
Just an FYI I will be on the AT&T network.
ttfn
CDL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get a nexus 5. You'll love it
Sent from my Nexus 5

jd1639 said:
Get a nexus 5. You'll love it
Sent from my Nexus 5
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AT&T doesn't offer that phone... unless I'm just not seeing it LOL

crazy_dragonlady said:
AT&T doesn't offer that phone... unless I'm just not seeing it LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They don't but it works fine on att. Very easy to root and mod. No locked bootloader.
Sent from my Nexus 5

John The Rhino said:
Sounds like you are not someone that really uses or needs root like us flashaholics. I love having complete control over my devices. The extraordinary battery life, increased performance, extra capabilities like tethering and so forth. If I want to delete an un-wanted app or service ( At&t navigator anyone) or try a new rom I can. With a stock rom with locked boot loaders (really an oxymoron for "open source" Android isn't it?) you have what you get, like it or not. It's sad they load these awesome devices up with so much performance killing bloat ware. It's like buying a new corvette & then attaching a loaded u-haul trailer to it. What's the point of having it if you can't use it as intended? Anyway my 2 cents worth. Choose your path wisely grasshopper, as there's no turning back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I've just never gotten any real good info on WHAT my rooted GS4 can do. I'd love to extend battery life and tether, but without really knowing all the possible downfalls, I've never pulled the trigger on like system apps, bloatware, etc. You know of a good resource for slightly technical people with clear definitions of what certain programs do and what can and can't be deleted?
I think at the time I rooted (I'm a MF3 S4), there was no 'unrooting' or flashing to stock, and therefore have been reluctant. I know I don't spend enough time on here learning, my 5 and 2 year old suck all my extra time away.
I'd love to maximize my phone to it's greater abilities, just overwhelmed I guess on where to start as I'm perfectly happy on 4.2 (I owned 3 iPhones before getting this one, so I have limited Android experience, but I recently also got an ASUS TF300 and rooted and ROMed my Kindle Fire almost 2 years ago to CM9).

scottiemedic said:
I guess I've just never gotten any real good info on WHAT my rooted GS4 can do. I'd love to extend battery life and tether, but without really knowing all the possible downfalls, I've never pulled the trigger on like system apps, bloatware, etc. You know of a good resource for slightly technical people with clear definitions of what certain programs do and what can and can't be deleted?
I think at the time I rooted (I'm a MF3 S4), there was no 'unrooting' or flashing to stock, and therefore have been reluctant. I know I don't spend enough time on here learning, my 5 and 2 year old suck all my extra time away.
I'd love to maximize my phone to it's greater abilities, just overwhelmed I guess on where to start as I'm perfectly happy on 4.2 (I owned 3 iPhones before getting this one, so I have limited Android experience, but I recently also got an ASUS TF300 and rooted and ROMed my Kindle Fire almost 2 years ago to CM9).
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Hey man, no worries. The reality is I would much rather play with my kids (if I had any) than an electronic device. So it's nice to know your priorities are right. There's few picture worthy moments we get from our phones, but kids provide such memories constantly. For everyday use, stock is fine & was for me for a little while. You are doing the right thing by waiting until you know more before you do something wrong & brick your phone. This is the place where you can learn how to root, install Safestrap recovery & flash incredible custom rom on your mf3 S4 when you are ready.

Just purchased a MXP and have questions

While I wait for the arrival of my MXP I have some questions for the community so that I can hit the ground running. First thing, I'd like to unlock my boot loader but I was just curious if there is a way to re-lock it afterwards just in case I need to send in for repairs or something along those lines? Also wondering about VOLTE support. I see some roms that state they have it working but is this a stock feature or do I need to use a custom ROM to get VOLTE to function? Also is there any known method of rooting without unlocking the boot loader just in case re-locking it is not possible? Thanks for the help everyone.
I am coming from a g920a. That phone is torture for someone like me who likes stock Android and rooted devices. Probably the worst phone I have ever had. Can't wait to get my hands on my MXP and leaves this piece of junk behind!

I'm on Verizon and I can confirm it supports advanced calling, which is VoLTE as far as I know but it might require turning it on at the provider level.
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

I haven't messed with VoLTE yet so I can't answer those questions, but as for your others: The bootloader can be relocked, but the unlock method involves submitting an unlock request code to motorola, and they immediately email you an unlock key, along with a warning about voiding your warranty, so even relocking it does not unvoid your warranty. HOWEVER, it only voids your warranty for software issues. If it's a hardware problem unrelated to the bootloader being unlocked, they'll still handle it, and accidental drops and things are still covered if you buy an accidental damage warrenty. Also, as far as I know there is still no way to root without unlocking the bootloader.

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squallz506 said:
Volte is only available on stock roms.
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I thought this had been fixed on AICP based ROMS?
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

countryfolk07 said:
I thought this had been fixed on AICP based ROMS?
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
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Whoops, yeah I guess they fixed it down the line. Sorry, I've been enjoying stock+xposed too much to follow custom development.
Edit: also root without bootloader unlock will likely never happen. We have a root method already, so there's no incentive to find another method.

The answer you seek was right in the first page of this forum....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x-style/general/moto-x-style-how-to-unlock-bootloader-t3192140
That being said, I would consider waiting until after Marshmallow drops before you unlock your bootloader so as not to interfere with any OTA's. Conventional wisdom is that it is coming within the next few weeks as the "test drive" has already started and a "soak test" should follow shortly.

yeah i know it can be unlocked I already read that post. I would not have gotten this phone if the boot loader was not un-lockable. That's the whole reason I am moving away from my AT&T Galaxy s6. I was just trying to clarify if re-locking made any difference as far as the warranty is concerned. I appreciate the answers guys. Just trying to determine if I should keep it stock or use a custom ROM out of the box. Sounds like I will go stock for the time being. Now as far as unlocked boot loaders interfering with OTA's? Is this really a thing? And wouldn't somebody just post the OTA image on the forums when its ready anyway?

timde9 said:
yeah i know it can be unlocked I already read that post. I would not have gotten this phone if the boot loader was not un-lockable. That's the whole reason I am moving away from my AT&T Galaxy s6. I was just trying to clarify if re-locking made any difference as far as the warranty is concerned. I appreciate the answers guys. Just trying to determine if I should keep it stock or use a custom ROM out of the box. Sounds like I will go stock for the time being. Now as far as unlocked boot loaders interfering with OTA's? Is this really a thing? And wouldn't somebody just post the OTA image on the forums when its ready anyway?
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Well as to it being a thing, I certainly can't say for sure. But what reason is there to unlock the bootloader if you're not going to root? And once you do that, you almost certainly will not get OTA's. What am I missing? Is there another reason you are looking to unlock?
The one thing I don't know is if there a some type of a "tamper flag" that would require something like triangle away.
You don't think you could just do a fastboot oem lock?

Sorry to give you the wrong impression but I fully intend to root and also install Xposed and all that good stuff. There are a lot of things I need that require these things such as BubbleUPNP's audio cast feature, and of course the all powerful AdAway and YouTube AdAway in addition to Titanium Backup and Viper4Android etc. I normally use that stuff every day and so dealing with my last phone was like living in Android Hell. All the great hardware but software that was hopelessly mangled un-rootable and just sad for such a powerful device as the s6. Being able to have these things back is my number one reason for buying this phone so you best believe that's the very first thing I will do once it comes in lol. The only reason I am so concerned about the warranty is because I have needed it in the past for several other devices and so don't want do something that is un-doable. But from the sounds of it this will only affect me if the software causes the defect and I am fairly confident I can fix anything software related all by myself. Mostly only concerned about hardware defects and if they will still be covered that is just perfect.
And already I am feeling the difference here in this part of xda. The forums for the g920-a are like calling out into the dessert, and in no time at all you guys have address my major concerns. Thanks again

timde9 said:
Sorry to give you the wrong impression but I fully intend to root and also install Xposed and all that good stuff. There are a lot of things I need that require these things such as BubbleUPNP's audio cast feature, and of course the all powerful AdAway and YouTube AdAway in addition to Titanium Backup and Viper4Android etc. I normally use that stuff every day and so dealing with my last phone was like living in Android Hell. All the great hardware but software that was hopelessly mangled un-rootable and just sad for such a powerful device as the s6. Being able to have these things back is my number one reason for buying this phone so you best believe that's the very first thing I will do once it comes in lol. The only reason I am so concerned about the warranty is because I have needed it in the past for several other devices and so don't want do something that is un-doable. But from the sounds of it this will only affect me if the software causes the defect and I am fairly confident I can fix anything software related all by myself. Mostly only concerned about hardware defects and if they will still be covered that is just perfect.
And already I am feeling the difference here in this part of xda. The forums for the g920-a are like calling out into the dessert, and in no time at all you guys have address my major concerns. Thanks again
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I'd still recommend waiting at least a couple of weeks to see if Marshmallow shows up!
I'm coming to the MXPE from a OnePlus One which I have to say was one of the funnest phones I've ever owned. I wasiunlocked, rooted and flashing CM12.1 nightlies about twice a week.
I thought I would miss it, but so far so good on the MXPE without rooting. We'll have to see what happens after MM drops. I'd like to get it rooted, but I haven't done nearly the amount of modding you've done.
Good luck with your phone. I can honestly tell you it's a really nice device!

While its tempting to wait for marshmallow to show I cannot live without root any longer. I have already been without it for months because of this damn s6. I'm sure someone will upload the OTA as soon as it's available so I'll just flash it when the time comes.

timde9 said:
Sorry to give you the wrong impression but I fully intend to root and also install Xposed and all that good stuff. There are a lot of things I need that require these things such as BubbleUPNP's audio cast feature, and of course the all powerful AdAway and YouTube AdAway in addition to Titanium Backup and Viper4Android etc. I normally use that stuff every day and so dealing with my last phone was like living in Android Hell. All the great hardware but software that was hopelessly mangled un-rootable and just sad for such a powerful device as the s6. Being able to have these things back is my number one reason for buying this phone so you best believe that's the very first thing I will do once it comes in lol. The only reason I am so concerned about the warranty is because I have needed it in the past for several other devices and so don't want do something that is un-doable. But from the sounds of it this will only affect me if the software causes the defect and I am fairly confident I can fix anything software related all by myself. Mostly only concerned about hardware defects and if they will still be covered that is just perfect.
And already I am feeling the difference here in this part of xda. The forums for the g920-a are like calling out into the dessert, and in no time at all you guys have address my major concerns. Thanks again
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Well if you're an xposed user you should root immediately with no concern about the 6.0 OTA, since xposed doesn't work on 6.0. I'm not moving to 6.0, myself, until xposed is released for it. I use xposed modules everyday and am not giving it up, not even for doze mode.

That's kinda how I am feeling as well. I can achieve similar results to doze with the xposed app amplify with enough tweaking so its not a big deal.