Database Users

Noob needs help - Totally overloaded with info!

Greetings all.
Firstly, thanks for such a great repository of info. I have successfully managed to root my phone using Chainfire's method. I'm supremely happy to have even accomplished that.
I'm not a tech noob, but I'm quite new to Androids.
The feeling of frustration at trying to learn new terms and make sense out of all this information is HUGE. I have seen various "noob" entitled threads, as well as threads (Like ChainFire's) that make it somewhat easier. However, there seems to be so many threads to look through, and different info/terms that at this point trying to add a battery percentage mod to the status bar (which I'm sure is an easy easy thing to some of you) has become quite the gargantuan task for me.
---to that topic i'm having trouble understanding what it means when people say "flash using CWM". I understand "flash" (i think) and i know what CWM is, but have no idea what steps to take to "flash the necessary apk" files.
Do i use CWM? I've seen mention of using a root explorer or just adding the files overtop.
Then I've read "backup first". Yes, i know i want to do that. I have Titanium Backup on my device. And I've backed it up> but then i read that i should be using Nandroid. Where the hell do i get that? lolz. I mean I've searched for it and found threads, but from HTC section. Is it even compatible? No D/L links...
arrrrgggggg!!!
I did find some resources from Villain rom. So at least I found some term definitions.
Speaking of Roms...
If I have KF3 on my phone, and i wanted to put Villain Rom v.2 on it, would i need to install KF2? Or is it recommended to put on KG1? Am I flashing that like I flashed the kernels when rooting (via odin)?
------------------------------------
Well if you made it through that - thanks. My head feels like it's going to explode. Too much info, too fast. I feel like I've had a ton of info my brain really doesn't comprehend. What was that movie...Johnny Mnemonic?
I wish we had a Rooting Rom'ing Guide for Noobs. One that explained what terms meant along with the instructions. Maybe a screenshot or two.

benivolent said:
Greetings all.
Firstly, thanks for such a great repository of info. I have successfully managed to root my phone using Chainfire's method. I'm supremely happy to have even accomplished that.
I'm not a tech noob, but I'm quite new to Androids.
The feeling of frustration at trying to learn new terms and make sense out of all this information is HUGE. I have seen various "noob" entitled threads, as well as threads (Like ChainFire's) that make it somewhat easier. However, there seems to be so many threads to look through, and different info/terms that at this point trying to add a battery percentage mod to the status bar (which I'm sure is an easy easy thing to some of you) has become quite the gargantuan task for me.
---to that topic i'm having trouble understanding what it means when people say "flash using CWM". I understand "flash" (i think) and i know what CWM is, but have no idea what steps to take to "flash the necessary apk" files.
Do i use CWM? I've seen mention of using a root explorer or just adding the files overtop. CWM comes with Chain Fires Rooted Kernel. If you have rooted your phone using Chaninfiire Kernel you should have an app called CWM. you need to put the apk in your internal storage using PC, then open CWM, theer is an option to install apk. select that and browse to the file.. all done
Then I've read "backup first". Yes, i know i want to do that. I have Titanium Backup on my device. And I've backed it up> but then i read that i should be using Nandroid. Where the hell do i get that? lolz. I mean I've searched for it and found threads, but from HTC section. Is it even compatible? No D/L links...
it means backing up ur phone using CWM.. open CWM and theer is a backup option select that or just boot to recovery power off then Power+home key+ volume Up) and select backup from there
arrrrgggggg!!!
I did find some resources from Villain rom. So at least I found some term definitions.
Speaking of Roms...
If I have KF3 on my phone, and i wanted to put Villain Rom v.2 on it, would i need to install KF2? Or is it recommended to put on KG1? Am I flashing that like I flashed the kernels when rooting (via odin)?
no ur not required to put KF2 first. flash the villain rom using CWM (install zip from sd card)
------------------------------------
Well if you made it through that - thanks. My head feels like it's going to explode. Too much info, too fast. I feel like I've had a ton of info my brain really doesn't comprehend. What was that movie...Johnny Mnemonic?
I wish we had a Rooting Rom'ing Guide for Noobs. One that explained what terms meant along with the instructions. Maybe a screenshot or two.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hope that helps

Thanks indeed!
I did have a problem with the CWM, I did pretty much exactly as you mentioned - prior to me making this thread - and I used cwm to browse to the location with the apk on my sd card. installed... nothing happened.
re: cwm and back up - again, did as you had mentioned, but when i go into cwm and press "backup" it give me option to name the file, and then resets into recovery mode (i think - as i've used the buttons method to get to the same screen) but there is no "back up" option listed. also there is some csc error message. see picture.
re: villain rom. so to confirm, I do not have to change from kf3 to another kernel to install VR2.0?

Have to agree, especially for people coming form the world of Ilockedinsideaboxfullofnothingtochangeordophone
What are the benefits of flashing a custom rom?

PM sent.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA Premium App

benivolent said:
Thanks indeed!
I did have a problem with the CWM, I did pretty much exactly as you mentioned - prior to me making this thread - and I used cwm to browse to the location with the apk on my sd card. installed... nothing happened.
re: cwm and back up - again, did as you had mentioned, but when i go into cwm and press "backup" it give me option to name the file, and then resets into recovery mode (i think - as i've used the buttons method to get to the same screen) but there is no "back up" option listed. also there is some csc error message. see picture.
re: villain rom. so to confirm, I do not have to change from kf3 to another kernel to install VR2.0?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
according to that pic..u dont have cwm installed properly.. that recovery screen is from the default recovery which comes from the phone..ur not flashing your rooted kernel properly.. ur recovery screen should be orange in colour and it will be stated there clockwork mod recovery
and you can safely ignore that csc error..

THUDUK said:
Have to agree, especially for people coming form the world of Ilockedinsideaboxfullofnothingtochangeordophone
What are the benefits of flashing a custom rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mean like my Blackberry? heh. for sure.
I'm hoping with the Custom Rom it's got less bloatware, better battery life.

xinfinityoO said:
according to that pic..u dont have cwm installed properly.. that recovery screen is from the default recovery which comes from the phone..ur not flashing your rooted kernel properly.. ur recovery screen should be orange in colour and it will be stated there clockwork mod recovery
and you can safely ignore that csc error..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never installed cwm as a separate action. Only used the "cwm" that came with chainfire's stuff. I've seen the orange colour you speak of in an faq I've found, but I'm not sure how to remedy this....
I am using the system as described for flashing kernels in Chainfire's thread.
1. debug mode on phone
2. phone into download mode (three buttons)
3. start Odin
4. plug phone into usb
5. browse to zip/tar file of unsecured
6. phone reboots
7. root phone
8. install secured kernel to sd card
9. use cwm to flash that kernel. (which did so successfully i believe)
Is there another step I should have done to install CWM? will reflashing the kernel via odin fix this?
thanks!

benivolent said:
I never installed cwm as a separate action. Only used the "cwm" that came with chainfire's stuff. I've seen the orange colour you speak of in an faq I've found, but I'm not sure how to remedy this....
I am using the system as described for flashing kernels in Chainfire's thread.
1. debug mode on phone
2. phone into download mode (three buttons)
3. start Odin
4. plug phone into usb
5. browse to zip/tar file of unsecured
6. phone reboots
7. root phone
8. install secured kernel to sd card
9. use cwm to flash that kernel. (which did so successfully i believe)
Is there another step I should have done to install CWM? will reflashing the kernel via odin fix this?
thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ur puting the kernel in the PDA section ?? and it is the chainfire kernel ur flashing using ODIN??
boot to download mode
CF kernel >> PDA (Odin)
Flash
Reboot
You get yellow triangle
to remove triangle use a usb jig..its the best option ..u can get it from ebay for less then 10 bux
or
transfer zimage file from the CF kernel.tar file (extract) to internal storage
boot to download mode
stock kernel >> PDA (ODIN)
flash
reboot
open up CWM application(should be in your apps)
choose flash kernel
browse to the zimage file from earlier (from cf kernel)
all done
your step 8 looks wrong.. secured kernel would mean stock..u will not flash the stock kernel (secured)

benivolent said:
You mean like my Blackberry? heh. for sure.
I'm hoping with the Custom Rom it's got less bloatware, better battery life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not unless bloatware has been removed . Read the rom posts in dev section .
Villain lite rom would be one with less bloatware or use the remove bloatware script same section .
Battery life is more than just the rom much is down to user apps installed .
Villian full rom thread has some useful battery info over the last ten or so pages .
jje

xinfinityoO said:
ur puting the kernel in the PDA section ?? and it is the chainfire kernel ur flashing using ODIN??
Yes, browsing to the CF kernel in pda section of odin
boot to download mode
CF kernel >> PDA (Odin)yup
Flashyup
Rebootyup
You get yellow triangleyup
to remove triangle use a usb jig..its the best option ..u can get it from ebay for less then 10 bux don't have a jig... yet
or
transfer zimage file from the CF kernel.tar file (extract) to internal storage
boot to download modemight do this then
stock kernel >> PDA (ODIN)
flash
reboot
open up CWM application(should be in your apps)
choose flash kernel
browse to the zimage file from earlier (from cf kernel)
all done
your step 8 looks wrong.. secured kernel would mean stock..u will not flash the stock kernel (secured)I did flash the secured version of the kernel back onto it after rooting it. That might have been the issue. I just reflashed CF kernel and had the CWM work differently for the back up. still not orange, but at least it actually backed it up!!! yaaaahooooo!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
initially i had rooted with the one click method, and then still didn't have root so changed and did the chainfire method. but still put a stock kernel on after flashing and getting root with super one click. I think I didn't realize that the CF kernel means I get root without having to use superone click. and still put a stock kernel back on afterwards.

JJEgan said:
Not unless bloatware has been removed . Read the rom posts in dev section .
Villain lite rom would be one with less bloatware or use the remove bloatware script same section .
Battery life is more than just the rom much is down to user apps installed .
Villian full rom thread has some useful battery info over the last ten or so pages .
jje
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, fantastic. Thanks I'll have a look at that. I may not have gotten to the end yet with all 700+ pages hehe

And thanks to all who've responded to my issues. Much appreciated.
Here's the reflashed CF kernel CWM doing the back up... this about right?

benivolent said:
And thanks to all who've responded to my issues. Much appreciated.
Here's the reflashed CF kernel CWM doing the back up... this about right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes
get a jig ..will save u a lot of work.. since i think u made an error while trying to remove the triangle

xinfinityoO said:
yes
get a jig ..will save u a lot of work.. since i think u made an error while trying to remove the triangle
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I purchased one from somewhere in the UK (off ebay), just waiting for it to arrive.
So now I've gotten my CWM working and i've backed up my phone with titanium and cwm (no need for nand i guess?) Can i safely try to add the mods for the battery %?

benivolent said:
I purchased one from somewhere in the UK (off ebay), just waiting for it to arrive.
So now I've gotten my CWM working and i've backed up my phone with titanium and cwm (no need for nand i guess?) Can i safely try to add the mods for the battery %?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as far as i think..backup using cwm is nand backup..unless i am wrong
once you have cwm backup u can play around with mods

thanks again for your help.

FAQS/Guide/Additional Info For Rooting S2 - High level summary

I rooted my S2 a few days back... there is a lot of info in the forums but spread all over the place and it took quite a long time to find the specific answers to some of the questions i had. Thus I've done a short form guide to help anyone looking to root and give them a bit of extended background and *hopefully* reduce all the copy threads/posts in the forum.
NB/ I'm no android expert. Please don't flame if something i've said is wrong. Let me know/PM me and I'll change it. This is only meant to be high level info!
1. What is rooting?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rooting_(Android_OS)
2. What are the warranty implications?
Warranty is void BUT you can return the phone back to *stock* (standard manufacturer ship state) so, as long as you don't bone anything in the root process you can get still get warranty returns.
3. What is [recovery]/[kernel]/[rom]?
Your samsung device memory is separated into different partitions to load different parts of the software to make you device work.
http://www.villainrom.co.uk/vBwiki/index.php/Glossary_of_Android_Terms
Typically you have the kernel partition which tells the device what to load on power on), you have the system partition where your ROM (main operating system is loaded) and you have the recovery partition which allows a user to access and write to the system partition (i.e. load custom roms).
Only difference on the galaxy s2 is that the kernel partition and recovery partition linked. What this means for you is that if you change the kernel, you also change the recovery.
4. What is stock [kernel][firmware]?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1125282
Essentially the stock kernel is the original Samsung kernel shipped on the device (split into many different variants subject to location, sub model, carrier, date etc...) and firmware essentially is the kernel with the Samsung Rom.
5. My current kernel is KG*|KF*...n, can i install any other stock kernel? What are all the different stock kernels? Can I install one over mine?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
Yes you can use any Kernel from any country as long as it is for SGS2 with the correct hardware
Check the models are the same.
6. What's the difference between Cf-Root and Clockworkmod and which do i want?
CF-Root is simply a customised version of the clockwordmod recovery. It still functions the same but cf-root has it's own app for making direct recovery calls from within android as CF-root doesn't function with Rom manager, where pure clockworkmod recovery does work with rom manager.
As far as I'm concerned, it's a question of whether you want to use Rom manager really?
7. How do I root the samsung galaxy S2?
All I will say is..ENSURE KIES IS NOT RUNNING IN SYSTEM TRAY OR TASK MANAGER. KILL THE WHOLE PROCESSS TREE IF YOU FIND IT BEFORE DOING ANY ROOTING!
CF-Root http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399
Clockworkmod http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1118693
N00b guide http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126522
You can also use the root toolbox method for some stock firmwares without having to flash the recovery:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1319653
8. What is superoneclick and what is odin? Where do i get them?
Odin is a flash utility to allow you to push a kernel to your phone from your pc.
Superoneclick is a flash app that will root your phone from your pc.
If you don't want to use superoneclick then simply flash an unsecured kernel (i.e. CF-Root) using Odin and you'll get root already.
Look in the kernel posts and you'll find latest versions there.
9. Can i still get OTA (over the air) updates to my stock rom eventhough I've rooted?
you can update via Kies and root again. Kies wont detect if your phone is rooted or not as long as you are on Stock firmware.
10. How do i get back to stock (as if nothing has ever happened to the phone/factory ship)?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
Flashing a full stock rom and kernel (firmware) using odin will remove everything.
11. What is this yellow exclamation mark and how do I get round it?
Whenever you access the download mode, and write a new kernel, your phone will know you've changed the kernel. The exclamation mark is simply a flag for samsung to easily know whether you've messed with the kernel on returns. You can easily get rid of it by using a jig OR re-flashing the stock kernel following an initial root...then re-flashing the zimage from the CWM image. - Jig is far easier and quicker though.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=14283369&postcount=2
12. What is the custom binary download counter and how can I restore it?
A counter living in the kernel to record the number of times you've changed the kernel. Only way to remove it is to get a usb jig...
13. What is a jig and what does it do?
it's a little usb plugin from ebay then puts the phone into download mode (even if you bricked a kernel update) resets the kernel counter and removes the yellow exclamation mark.
Simply boot off the phone. Plug it in. The screen will say something like 'Erasing boot information'...then unplug it and re-boot. Very simple.
A jig is a cheap and essential piece of hardware that everyone rooting should invest in!
14. What is download mode and what is recovery mode and how do I access them?
Recovery > enter recovery with the key combination of Vol Up + Home + Power
Download > Accessible on all phones, regardless of kernel via Vol Down + Home +
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1134290
15. What is deodexed|Odexed?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=16461907&postcount=2
http://www.villainrom.co.uk/vBwiki/index.php/Glossary_of_Android_Terms
16. Once rooted I can install custom roms, but can I overwrite the kernel?
Yes, so long as the kernel is compatible with the hardware and in some cases the rom.
17. I've rooted and put CF-Root XWKF(...n)...But I want to put a different kernel on and still have the CWM recovery?
Simply flash the CF-Root over the current CF-Root. However if you are updating a major version (i.e. CWM 4 to CWM 5) just check on CF-Root's thread first.
18. I've pwned my device? What do I do now?
Get a jig to put back into download mode and then flash the original stock firmware.
19. My device is sim locked and/or full of carrier apps? How can I get rid?
To get rid of carrier branding and apps simply flash a different firmware/rom that isn't branded from a carrier. See questions 4 and 5 above for lists of the different stock firmwares.
To get rid of the sim lock you have two options:
1. Root and then use one of the apps from market place (mixed success across the boards); or,
2. Extract some data from your phone in hex code and try and calculate the unlock code yourself.
I bought mine sim free so not done any of this but a quick scan of the forums turned up these two posts which may be useful.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1207513&referrerid=2648941
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1064978&referrerid=2648941
20. What is a 'cooked' rom?
Cooked roms are just roms that someone has made based on the stock rom with slight high level changes. They are different from developed roms such as Cyanogen or Villainrom which receive significant low level modifications and developments.
Check out the Rom kitchen project which when released in stable version will allow you to build your own rom on the fly and select all the apps etc.. you want in it: brilliant example of the benefits of Android!
http://www.romkitchen.org/beta/index.php
21. What is CSC and how do i change my ROM CSC?
CSC = consumer software customisation. The file contains the software packages specific to that region, carrier branding and also APN settings for data connection, SMS, MMS etc...
Three ways to change it (NB it will wipe your device!):
1. Flash a multiCSC ROM and that use CSC Select from Market;
2. Flash a multiCSC ROM and type *#272*Device IMEI# into the dial pad and selecting the csc of your choice;
3. Flash a ROM using ODIN, then flash the desired CSC separately using ODIN.
22. Do you just install Rom over an existing?
Some people do and 9 times out of 10 it works, however I personally boot into recovery, wipe all data/factory reset and wipe Davlik cache > then power off > boot into download mode and install the new rom as above. Best way to ensure a 100% clean install.
23. What is the best way to go from Android 2.x to Android 4.x (Ice Cream Sandwich)?
I struggled trying to get Titanium to quickly and efficiently migrate my data (I'm sure it's very possible but I didn't have the time nor inclination to work around it) therefore I just restored my apps data after manually installing the apps from the marketplace. Once you have a stable working phone on ICS future titanium backup/restores are easy as normal.
24. Titanium Backup? What's the difference in app colour?
Menu => Legend;
Green = App - with data that you should backup;
White = App - should be fine to backup;
Red = System app/service - Wouldn't backup as typically installed by default.
Other tools apps that will be helpful are Titanium Backup (from Android Marketplace https://market.android.com/details?id=com.keramidas.TitaniumBackup&hl=en) and also get a Dropbox account (for free) from Free 2GB Cloud Storage from Dropbox as Titanium can sync to Dropbox.
25. Anything else of note?
Other tools apps that will be helpful are Titanium Backup (from Android Marketplace https://market.android.com/details?id=com.keramidas.TitaniumBackup&hl=en) and also get a Dropbox account (for free) from Free 2GB Cloud Storage from Dropbox as Titanium can sync to Dropbox.
Also slightly linked, if every you want a good UK based hosting for blogs/web/dev - I couldn't recommend TsoHost enough. They are the best hosting company I've ever worked with! Unlimited sql databases and PHP setting modification! If you want 10% off all hosting packages use the code 'wibbsy' at checkout!

Would not this be better in the General section .As a sticky even though noobs dont read stickies .
Witness a very similar Guide posted long time .
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1125282
jje

I welcome suggestions on how to move it and or make it sticky?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA App

wibbsy said:
I welcome suggestions on how to move it and or make it sticky?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PM a Mod.
jje

This was exactly what I was looking for - thanks for this! I got my Galaxy S2 about 3 hours ago and now it's all rooted and awesome thanks to this guide.

You have been great help thnx man .
---------- Post added at 05:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:59 AM ----------
Can you post a step by step guide as how to debrand the S2 ?
it will be very much appreciated.

Debranding is easy... just flash a rom that isn't branded. See q. 19.

New to xda. Thanks to threadstarter, really useful information for newbies like me.

great info there . keep up the good work.

thank you very much

Thanks
Just like to say thanks for this appreciate you taking the time to write this.
Nice one

I want to flash back to stock firmware, but after download from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278, instead of PDA, CSC and MODEM files, there were several image files (Power ISO). What to do with them? I desperately need to download stock firmware with MSR - CSC... Any help would be so appreciated!

Thanks. I think it is nice to have all the info in one post. Makes life easier.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk

thanks for the info!

Thanks dude for the very useful info.

Thanks for the info. Nice to have it all in one place.

i get its. thanks for guide

Thanks! Makes much sense!

Thanks for the summary! This have helped a lot for newcomers like me

+1. Very helpful.

[HOWTO] Rooting + Wiping + Flashing : For the ultimate noob.

Note from rootsu:
XDA staff have transferred ownership of this thread to me so that I can update the rooting methods. The reason for this is because the rooting method contained within is outdated and since identified as unsafe.
I have PM'd the original OP @Stormlister to update the thread but unfortunately have received no response.
I aim to keep the structure of the thread in tact. I am only here to edit out / replace outdated and unsafe methods contained within this thread. The work below is not my own.
Disclaimer:
This guide is for total noobs (I am one myself). Until the information here can be confirmed by an experienced person please don't bet on the fact that this information is 100% accurate. I studied and put together bits and pieces of information that I found everywhere, tried it and it worked. I will mention the sources. Even though its probably not a good idea for a noob to write any sort of guide, these were taken from working sources, I have tried it myself and all works flawlessly.
About me:
I write open source software and also write documentation.
Why:
I wrote this tutorial as I found the scattered information all over kinda confusing on the subject of flashing, wiping and ROMS.
Who's it for?
You already know what you want to do, but don't know where to start.
THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Getting Started - Rooting
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Root means you are opening the operating system to allow a user or application full read and write access. This is needed by some special applications to change operating system files. For example the "Adfree" application changes system files to block certain domains which completely stops ads from showing up on your phone. Unlike other systems like in the iOS, all the root applications are available in the Google Play store, I think Google is great for allowing this.
The main thing I root first even though it is not needed to flash a rom is the fact that you ALWAYS need to make a backup, if something goes wrong you have a something to fall back on and the friendly xda community can help us get things running again.
The easiest way I found to quickly and safely root was by using the following software:
ODIN (Desktop software) (Incorrect usage may make your phone unusable.)
Before you start using Odin, make sure all the Kies* services on your desktop is stopped. (On Windows, you can press Ctrl+Alt+Delete, go to task manager, services and stop it from there). Infact you should consider uninstalling Kies altogether as it is really not needed if you are going to root. There are more than enough backup software that does not add the bloatware.
This piece of genius is a tool to flash among other things a new ROM to your phone.
We will be using this piece of software twice, first to root it, and then to flash your S3 with a new ROM.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<rootsu insert>
Recommended methods to "root" depending on your requirements...
1) You want root only. No custom ROMs, kernels etc. Just root, just to use root apps.
CF Auto Root Via Odin
Why? Tried and tested method, simple to use. No need to choose what exploit you want to use as it's tailored for your device.
What does it do? It gives you a stock recovery (so can't flash things) and roots the Android OS
The Steps:
1) Download the Latest Odin
2) Download CF-Auto-Root for your model
3) Follow These steps to root
2) You want to flash custom ROMs / Kernels
If you want root on your existing Android ROM, you can do 1) first. Then flash a recovery of your choice (CWM, Philz, TWRP) via Odin
However, if you immediately plan on flashing a ROM, there's no need to root your existing ROM. Simply skip straight to installing a recovery. Backup then flash what you like.
The Steps:
1) Download the Latest Odin
2) Download recovery of your choice CWM, Philz, TWRP
3) Follow The steps to Flash Philz recovery (But for the recovery of your choice)
These steps can also be followed to update recovery to newer versions
</rootsu insert>
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Difficulty: Easy
After you have completed the tutorial your phone should be rooted and ready to go to the next step.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Backing up
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The next thing we will need to do is backup our current apps, settings and even ROM. Now that the phone is rooted we can install a few applications to help with this process. Lets do this now.
In Google Play Store, search and install:
Titanium Backup (Google Play)
With this tool, you will be able to backup application and settings of your current installation.
To do so;
Open Titanium Backup
At some point it will ask for root access, you will need to allow it root access.
Click on Backup/Restore.
It will show you a list of software.
Click the ok tick top right.
It will now show a list of actions you can take.
You will now [ RUN ] Backup all user apps+ system data.
It will flip to a new screen, click top right ok tick again.
The backup process will take a few minutes.
After the backup completes, we will need to copy it to a safe place, just in case something else goes wrong.
With above explained, there are more optimized Titanium Backup methods, this is a must read:
http://checkrom.com/threads/titanium-backup-explained.433/
You could also backup your whole system from the boot menu of ClockWorkMod / custom recovery - which you will already have if you used the rooting method above. Have a look at this short yet very informative video to do just that:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPvNr7LqP30&feature=related
Difficulty: Easy
Bear in mind that custom recoveries vary, they all work pretty much the same. The backup is referred to as a "nandroid" backup, but in the recovery menus, it may well be referred to as simply "backup and restore".
To boot into whichever custom recovery you have installed, power off the phone. From off, hold Volume Up + Home then press and hold Power until the S3 splash screen shows. Release power. Once in recovery, find the backup and restore menu and take a backup.
There is one more place you need to manually write down some settings, the APN for your data and MMS, this is the only area besides the branding when another countries stock rom might affect you if you chose to use it. So head over to;
Settings->More Settings->Mobile Networks->Access Point Names.
Click on each and write down its settings.
Backing up EFS folder
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The EFS is a filesystem folder which contains important information like for instance your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number, even though I cant find any evidence that anyone lost their EFS folder yet, I think it is probably important enough to back it up. First open your favorite file browser like ASTRO and click on your internal build in sdcard0 and see if you have a efs_Backup folder. If you have such a folder its is probably backup up inside already. To be honest, I dont know what backed mine up, but it was there, and it will be likely there if you followed the procedures listed in the collection of this tutorial.
However, the folder is only 6mb, if you don't have such a backed up folder, using an application like KTOOL, gives you the ability to backup the whole "/efs" folder to wherever you like. The external SSD and also your PC would be a good idea to back it up to.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Difficulty: Easy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROM - Hunting for a new rom
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
************************************************************************************************************
My ROM is not YOUR ROM
But I have an S3, wtf is this? Note that when hunting for a ROM that you make sure it is either based on your models ROM or supports your models ROM. The reason this should be noted is because the models are so profoundly different, from Dual Core to Quad Core, from 1GB memory to 2GB memory etc. This means each ROM is optimized of based on a specific model. If you have the GT-I9300, you have the most popular model which has a lot of custom ROMS.
Read more about the differences here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1870827
************************************************************************************************************
This is where I got confused, I did not know if I had to match the code base of my factory stock rom to the rom I wanted. I was afraid that it might flash my modems software making my phone unusable with my service provider. It seems that the rom file is only to flash the actual OS and wont include the modem flash too.
So what ROM to pick, there seems to be very good ROMS out there, but know, the further you go away from the stock rom, the more difficult things become. You might just want to upgrade to the latest Jelly Bean and not worry about an improve stock Samsung rom. Or you might want to take it to a whole new level and perhaps install a pure Android rom (however, I noted a few people having trouble with the pure android rom, you really need to know what you are doing). But as I say, it seems things gets kinda tricky the further you move away from the Stock Rom.
Lets look at a few examples of solid roms:
At this stage we only have one stock rom available in Jelly Bean, this is most probably the safest bet when you only want to upgrade to Jelly Bean (If you do decide to just go with the safest rom, you can just root again after the rom was successfully flashed) [INTERNATIONAL GALAXY S3 ONLY] [DONT USE THIS ROM ON ANYTHING ELSE THAN INTERNATIONAL VERSION (IT WONT WORK)]:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1646610
Now we can start looking at roms based on stock roms that was improved by a linux guru, very good example of such a rom which is very solid is Android Revolution HD, if you have other Samsung devices I would recommend sticking to this one as it comes stock with Allshare Play:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1797334
The most popular OMEGA rom for the S3 international, pure awesomeness:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1663656
Then you get completely customized roms like Cyanogenmod, this is next level roms and should probably only be tried once you are more confident with flashing ( . Y . )
Note that Cyanogenmod is very controversial for the international version of the S3, there are technical issues, and newer stable version is always behind, I would NOT go for Cyanogenmod at the moment..
http://www.cyanogenmod.com/
For a very nice list of roms and some explanations have a look at:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1674286
Now that you have your rom, lets continue.
Difficulty: Easy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wiping & Flashing - Cleaner Flashing Method
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[I will try and confirm all my findings below]
When people refer to the term wipe, it is my understanding that it means to delete the old ROM from various locations. This ensures a more clean installation, almost like its better to install Windows afresh instead of an upgrade. However, this is not Windows, its Linux, I am sure the logic behind this is because the way Linux works, it has certain files in certain directories, that if the file is there, the service is loaded automatically. Now if you had to replace a stock rom with something completely different, some of those auto loaded files will be left behind and you will be stuck with loaded services that should not be there. But this is just my experience, I am not sure if this completely accurate.
This is where things might start becoming slightly confusing. Many people seem to argue that when upgrading from a stock version to another stock version that you don't need to wipe, I completely agree with this, as this will almost be the same upgrade process the default upgrade will follow.
However, if you upgrade to a very different ROM, start paying attention, as things might just get slightly more complicated. This I have not tried myself yet, but it seems that for this to work you wont need Odin.
Some people also recommend formatting and not just deleting, I will even advice against this, this is the EXT4 filesystem, not some NTFS filesystem. I cannot see the real benefit of formatting.
At this stage I don't know how to wipe the phone if you are going to use the alternative Odin flashing method explained below, this I have done, tried and tested, working fine:
[Below method I use to flash my own international S3]
This is what you will be doing to install a custom rom while wiping it for a fresh install (make sure you have your titanium backups handy ):
Copy your ROM inside an easy locatable phone folder by browsing to it, from your PC and copying it to your phones folder using your micro USB cable. I strongly recommend using your External SD card as some roms may wipe your internal SD card leaving you without any ROM to update.. that will be very sad. :crying:
Boot into recovery (Vol up + Home + power from off)
You will see a new Unix like screen appear, use volume + and - to navigate up and down, home button is enter, and soft touch back button back is back.
Next we will wipe the phone (if your ROM does not have special instructions on wiping this is a standard method).
Goto Wipe Data/Factory Reset -> Yes
Goto Wipe Cache Partition -> Yes
Goto Advance -> Wipe Dalvik Cache -> Yes
Next Select Install Zip from SD Card (You may also mount External SD card and load ROMS from external SD card (I can recommend this))
It will take a while...
Reboot, and hope to god all is good.
I can confirm above works perfectly, I have flashed HD Revolution ROM successfully using above method.
BUT PLEASE BE WARNED: HD Revolution recommends using Super Wipe, the instructions are unclear, it says you must copy it to the your sd card, if you do this and copy it to your internal sd card all will be wiped including your images, I think you are screwed then. Rather copy them to your EXTERNAL SD card and choose zip from EXTERNAL SD card.
Or you can see a very clear example video of how to wipe data from your phone in preparation of a new rom;
Be aware, this video shows that you should UNLOCK your bootloader, some phones wont boot after this, don't do it except if you know you have to.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJUCOtX1cUk
Difficulty: Medium
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALTERNATIVE Flashing - With Odin
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have not followed the wiping method and you will just be going for the stock updated rom, you should not be needing any wiping, you can just download the stock rom as linked and follow this great guide:
STOCK ROM:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1646610
ODIN GUIDE
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1671969
Difficulty: Medium
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Restoring your data
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After you have are done with a successful flash, we want to recover our apps, but its not just a matter of recovering everything, it will be a mess if you do that.
Many people carry out a backup before installing a custom rom and didnt really understand what kind of backup they should of carried out and have just gone with what they have seen, WRONG!!! when it comes to custom roms there is only one type of backup you can do.
Custom roms have their own system files and dont like other system files being installed over it, you will definitely have rom problems if you carry out this kind of restore from a backup over a custom rom.
When using Titanium Backup its important not to use the settings - backup all system data and backup all user apps + system data, you cant use these with a custom rom, so dont try this kind of backup, this kind of backup is to restore your phone back to its previous state, should something go wrong with the rom installation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read more detail here:
http://checkrom.com/threads/titanium-backup-explained.433/
Difficulty: Easy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Getting rid of bloatware
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you went for a stock based ROM, you might want to get rid of all the SAMSUNG bloatware that sits in memory and really never gets used.
This is mostly all the "S" software like "S Suggest", I believe not a lot of people is going to use this for instance. And one can't simply uninstall it as it is hiden from uninstalling.
There is a very easy way if you are rooted though (another reason to root). Simply install the little greatness called "Nobloat Free" from the Play store.
Now select those bloatware you dont want and simply uninstall. But make sure it might not be useful for yourself. To give you an idea, "AllShare Play" might sound useless, however, if you have a XBMC media pc, by simply enabling "PNP" in the configuration, you can display photos and videos instantly from your G3, does not matter where you are in XBMC.
Difficulty: Very Easy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unrooting and getting back your Warranty!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At some stage you might want to sell your phone or it is giving you hardware issues that has nothing to do with software. At this stage you want to reset the phone to it 100% factory state and status. It is completely possible, unfortunately it wont work to just update the rom to the stock factory rom as there are built in counters and status writes who flags the phone as modified. However, by following these tutorials, you can quickly reset your phone.
You will need the factory rom for your country, this can be downloaded here:
http://www.sammobile.com/firmware/
Then watch both of these tutorials and decide which one you feel the most comfortable with:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEI_c1R0_nQ&feature=related
And another approach to regaining your warranty:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEsBwtqY2xE&feature=related
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Oops, if you are stuck on a crossroad and you think you might have bricked (term used to define the fact that you made your phone unusable) your phone, following this tutorial will help you out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypmqJbZqOaU&feature=related
Difficulty: Easy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to everyone
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I just want to say thanks to the wonderfully smart people who makes rooting possible. It is amazing how much more fun some people can make the life for other. I truly appreciate every bit of it.
Also special thanks to xdadevelopers who keeps an awesome community together.
Odin Greatness!
CF-Root
SuperSu
CWM
CWMManager
ClockworkMod (WTF, this is omg awesome!)
Titanium Backup
Adfree
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Congrats on your new firmare!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FAQ
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JiiNDER said:
Hey I want to thank you so much for your guide! It actually makes rooting a lot easier. I had one question though, if I root and a new official firmware comes out, can I still update to the latest stock rom with Kies even though I will lose my root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It all depends what ROM you loaded, if its not the default factory ROM or based on it, you will have to follow the instructions of the CUSTOM rom provider on how an upgrade should be achieve. Else simply use the newest default rom and simply re-root, should be a very quick to do. Also, dont use KIES if you have already rooted, rather use ODIN and follow the instructions. NOTE: KIES, if left running will make ODIN behave incorrectly.

just a slight correction/heads up.... if you root with cf root then cwm recovery is installed, hence no need to use Rom manager, it's kinda outdated now imho
---------- Post added at 05:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:49 PM ----------
further to that you may want to provide instructions after the rooting process on how to get into recovery and download mode

slaphead20 said:
just a slight correction/heads up.... if you root with cf root then cwm recovery is installed, hence no need to use Rom manager, it's kinda outdated now imho
---------- Post added at 05:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:49 PM ----------
further to that you may want to provide instructions after the rooting process on how to get into recovery and download mode
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I will note that above.

The stock rom at the bottom goes to the international version rom. I found this thread in the Sprint version so u might want to note that. If someone were to flash that they wouldn't boot up.
Sent from Galaxy SIII

Added many corrections.

musclehead84 said:
The stock rom at the bottom goes to the international version rom. I found this thread in the Sprint version so u might want to note that. If someone were to flash that they wouldn't boot up.
Sent from Galaxy SIII
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you please explain why you think it wont boot, what exactly would be different that wont make it boot. I believe it will?

Great tutorial for the noobs. Would be really useful for them. :thumbup:
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app

Stormlister said:
Could you please explain why you think it wont boot, what exactly would be different that wont make it boot. I believe it will?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Different CPU's, different kernels, different drivers, different partitions, different radios and tech (one being GSM the other being CDMA) and the list goes on...

graffixnyc said:
Different CPU's, different kernels, different drivers, different partitions, different radios and tech (one being GSM the other being CDMA) and the list goes on...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the feedback man... will mark it as International Only.

I had question regarding Odin behaving strangely, make sure KIES is stopped in your services. I have added it in the tutorial.

Stormlister said:
I had question regarding Odin behaving strangely, make sure Kiss is stopped in your services. I have added it in the tutorial.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you mean Kies ? (Samsung) good tut for super noobs btw
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app

i would recommend you to recommend not installing Kies at all, or uninstall it if installed.
any backup that you can do with it, can be done by 3rd party apps. it has a lot of security issues. and worst, its slow as hell.
i think a person that want to root his phone and flash a custom rom, will have no need of it anyway.
Edit: thumbs up for the effort! i could have really used such guide when i just started, instead i learned it the hard way!

OverRipeBananas said:
Do you mean Kies ? (Samsung) good tut for super noobs btw
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, yes Kies, thanks for spotting it

Thanks, I'll try this soon! Glad I found this, voiding warranty still sounds scary. I have other rooted devices and sometimes they can blow me away, so I think I'll go for it anyway.
Cheers.

MrEdgar said:
Thanks, I'll try this soon! Glad I found this, voiding warranty still sounds scary. I have other rooted devices and sometimes they can blow me away, so I think I'll go for it anyway.
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally think it is well worth-it, it is almost as if the phones turns into mini super computer when rooted. It is so much fun to have a ROM installed and setup that you are completely happy with, removing bloatware, no intrusive ads. Just stay away from overclocking, I think that is taking it too far if you are a scary pants like myself.
Also, you know how the retailers are, they almost never deliver on their warranty anyway.

No offence, but given this guide is designed 'for the ultimate noob' AND it has been stickied, there are some glaringly obvious things missing, that should be cover at the beginning of your post/guide before hitting the processes of
In the first post, you do not cover information pertaining to the flash counter and triangle away, and most importantly by far, BACKING UP THE EFS. Also, possible risks from installing potentially malicious apks from 'other sources' to a rooted device.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app

Good job! :good:

bootx1 said:
No offence, but given this guide is designed 'for the ultimate noob' AND it has been stickied, there are some glaringly obvious things missing, that should be cover at the beginning of your post/guide before hitting the processes of
In the first post, you do not cover information pertaining to the flash counter and triangle away, and most importantly by far, BACKING UP THE EFS. Also, possible risks from installing potentially malicious apks from 'other sources' to a rooted device.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
None taken, but in a community it works like this. We build a tutorial together. Instead of taking the time pointing out what you think is missing. Why did you not just write the part so I could add it? This tutorial is based on the international version, I am not sure if the triangle notification does not affect this version but I could not test it as I did not ran into this problem.
Regarding the EFS, I will do some research regarding this and add it to the tutorial.

I have added detail on backing up EFS folder and also triangle away.

CF-Root 6.4 - SuperSU+CWM5.5+CWMManager does not work on stock JellyBean Firmware right?

[SGH-i257m][ROOT] A Newbs Guide To Rooting & Modding the CANADIAN S4 Mini

Hey There!!
Just a little guide I threw together for all the new CANADIAN SGH-i257m S4 Mini owners out there who are looking to join the world of modded Androids
I found it quite difficult to track all the info down on Google over the last couple of weeks and have yet to find a CLEAR guide as to how to go about modding this specific model of phone, and unlocking its true potential so I figured I'd throw one up on here since everyone has been so helpful, so here it is!
* If anyone notices anything wrong or changes I need let me know!*
*Disclaimer*
First off I would like to say that I in NO WAY had anything to do with developing ANY of these methods that I am about to explain here, they are property of their respective owners, I am just placing them in a clear order for new users to follow so if anyone has any issues with this please let me know and i will fix it ASAP!
I also assume that you have backed up all of your contacts ETC on the phone to either the sim card or google or something. Its always safer to start from scratch and restore a backup right?
Also, PLEASE READ THE WHOLE GUIDE, and ANY linked posts. They have some good answers to a lot of peoples issues with rooting and whatnot
WARNING:
!*!*!*!THE METHODS EXPLAINED BELOW DO TRIP THE KNOX 0X1 WARRANTY FLAG!*!*!*!
If you are at all afraid of tripping the flag and voiding your warranty the please DO NOT continue as I, nor anyone else here are responsible for ANY damage or warranty issues you may run into after this. You are still able to flash a STOCK ROM back onto the phone but the 0x1 flag will always be there.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED
Another thing I should mention is that although these posts/files are technically for the GT-i9195(LTE) model, I have tested this on my personal phone (SGH-i257m) and I assure you it works GREAT with no problems if you follow the instructions given.
If you DONT want CyanogenMod 11 and want to roll with the stock ROM, you can refer to THIS post. Just follow the instructions as if your phone is the GT-i9195
Originally Posted by arco68
Actually, the SGH-I257M and GT-I9195 are pretty much identical in every way. Unlike the US carriers, the Canadian ones didn't see the need to go about and change everything on it.
The recovery and ROM's for the 9195 should work just fine on it. The only thing is that the model number will be set as GT-I9195. However, in latest CM11 nightlies I've added a routine which will identify which variant it is, and it will set the model number accordingly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HERES HOW TO INSTALL CyanogenMod 11 and recovery-clockwork on your SGH-i257m:
Heres the Original Post By arco68 if your interested!
1.You need to download 4 files to your computer (linked below) and move gapps and CM 11 over to your phones internal storage
Odin 3.09
gapps version 20140105
recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 extracted on your pc (YOU MUST USE THIS RECOVERY TO FLASH CM 11) just download it from that post
CyanogenMod 11 Nightly LTE VERSION
!!MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LATEST ABOVE VERSION OF CYANOGEN! IT IS THE GT-I9195 VERSION AND IS REQUIRED FOR YOUR PHONE TO WORK PROPERLY!! YOU MAY BRICK YOUR PHONE OTHERWISE
Now the fun part! After you have installed Odin and extracted recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 somewhere on your pc :
2. Turn off the phone.
-Press and hold home, volume down and power. A "Download" screen should appear (a big yellow triangle, youll know when you see it)
-Connect your USB cable, and press volume up to continue.
-Start Odin, and uncheck "F. Reset Time", and then click AP button.
-Select "recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5" file that you previously downloaded and extracted, and press Start button (Odin might seem like it hung up when you first load the file but just let it do its thing!! It eventually let you press start). The phone will reboot when finished.
-After the phone resets (it wil vibrate) IMMEDIATELY hold volume up and home buttons to boot into recovery mode. if you miss it dont worry you can always try again.
3. Once your in recovery your going to want to wipe data/factory reset and wipe cache
4. Now choose install from sdcard and navigate to the files we put on there earlier, and install cm-11
5. When that is complete install gapps the same way you installed cm-11
6. REBOOT PHONE AND PROFIT!
Thats basically it people. After that is HIGHLY suggest going and reading the ORIGINAL posts where i got all of this info from, so you can be familiar yourselves Feel free to post any feedback or questions and ill get back to you ASAP!
Enjoy your new rooted and amazingly awesome SGH-i257m
SIDE NOTES:
1.Be sure to use the built in updater for Cyanogen! I have it set to check for updates DAILY (because its still in daily duuuuh ) and everything will work beautifully!
2.I DO NOT recommend restoring your apps data etc from your old rom using google backups, as it re-installs ALL the bloatware that is removed when you install CM11. Instead use an app like AppBak to give you a list of what you had so you can choose
Original Posts:
[GT-I9195][ROM][Official][4.4.2] CyanogenMod 11.0 Nightlies for S4 Mini LTE
[GT-I9190][ROM][Official][4.3.1] CyanogenMod 10.2 Nightlies for S4 Mini 3G
[RECOVERY][ROOT] Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini LTE (GT-I9195)
STOCK i257m ROMS for ALL Canadian Carriers
Sammobile Firmware List for SGH-i257m

Thanks for contributing to the community
The guide looks pretty much set just you might want to start your thread title with something like [SGH-I257M].
You can also mention which of the two ROMs you used and have tested with and if possible just inform readers to use that one (arco68 did mention that the GT-I9195 was the one that the SGH-I257M is identical to and not the GT-I9190) to avoid confusion.
Cheers!

Nice guide,very interesting...
Thank you

*This is an automated message,No need to Respond
Nice guide,very interseting
Thank you

Whosat said:
Thanks for contributing to the community
The guide looks pretty much set just you might want to start your thread title with something like [SGH-I257M].
You can also mention which of the two ROMs you used and have tested with and if possible just inform readers to use that one (arco68 did mention that the GT-I9195 was the one that the SGH-I257M is identical to and not the GT-I9190) to avoid confusion.
Cheers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are very welcome!
Thanks for the feedback, I have fixed some errors i found as well as what you said
Hopefully it makes a bit more sense now!
Cheers!

Many Thanks!!!
This is an awesome thread! Thank you SO much for the work you put into this for the many Canucks up here with Bloated i257m's.
I have been waiting for 6 months for a detailed guide for the Canadian s4m . woohoo!

@Davis4ever
You are very welcome!
Im glad I was able to help out with your phone.
Feel free to share with others!
Enjoy your new phone: D
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk

Now we need someone to build an I257M rom
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk

Unfortunately I am not qualified to do that
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk

ExiLeX420 said:
Hey There!!
Just a little guide I threw together for all the new CANADIAN SGH-i257m S4 Mini owners out there who are looking to join the world of modded Androids
I found it quite difficult to track all the info down on Google over the last couple of weeks and have yet to find a CLEAR guide as to how to go about modding this specific model of phone, and unlocking its true potential so I figured I'd throw one up on here since everyone has been so helpful, so here it is!
* If anyone notices anything wrong or changes I need let me know!*
*Disclaimer*
First off I would like to say that I in NO WAY had anything to do with developing ANY of these methods that I am about to explain here, they are property of their respective owners, I am just placing them in a clear order for new users to follow so if anyone has any issues with this please let me know and i will fix it ASAP!
I also assume that you have backed up all of your contacts ETC on the phone to either the sim card or google or something. Its always safer to start from scratch and restore a backup right?
Also, PLEASE READ THE WHOLE GUIDE, and ANY linked posts. They have some good answers to a lot of peoples issues with rooting and whatnot
WARNING:
!*!*!*!THE METHODS EXPLAINED BELOW DO TRIP THE KNOX 0X1 WARRANTY FLAG!*!*!*!
If you are at all afraid of tripping the flag and voiding your warranty the please DO NOT continue as I, nor anyone else here are responsible for ANY damage or warranty issues you may run into after this. You are still able to flash a STOCK ROM back onto the phone but the 0x1 flag will always be there.
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED
Another thing I should mention is that although these posts/files are technically for the GT-i9195(LTE) model, I have tested this on my personal phone (SGH-i257m) and I assure you it works GREAT with no problems if you follow the instructions given.
If you DONT want CyanogenMod 11 and want to roll with the stock ROM, you can refer to THIS post. Just follow the instructions as if your phone is the GT-i9195
HERES HOW TO INSTALL CyanogenMod 11 and recovery-clockwork on your SGH-i257m:
Heres the Original Post By arco68 if your interested!
1.You need to download 4 files to your computer (linked below) and move gapps and CM 11 over to your phones internal storage
Odin 3.09
gapps version 20140105
recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 extracted on your pc (YOU MUST USE THIS RECOVERY TO FLASH CM 11) just download it from that post
CyanogenMod 11 Nightly LTE VERSION
!!MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LATEST ABOVE VERSION OF CYANOGEN! IT IS THE GT-I9195 VERSION AND IS REQUIRED FOR YOUR PHONE TO WORK PROPERLY!! YOU MAY BRICK YOUR PHONE OTHERWISE
Now the fun part! After you have installed Odin and extracted recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 somewhere on your pc :
2. Turn off the phone.
-Press and hold home, volume down and power. A "Download" screen should appear (a big yellow triangle, youll know when you see it)
-Connect your USB cable, and press volume up to continue.
-Start Odin, and uncheck "F. Reset Time", and then click AP button.
-Select "recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5" file that you previously downloaded and extracted, and press Start button (Odin might seem like it hung up when you first load the file but just let it do its thing!! It eventually let you press start). The phone will reboot when finished.
-After the phone resets (it wil vibrate) IMMEDIATELY hold volume up and home buttons to boot into recovery mode. if you miss it dont worry you can always try again.
3. Once your in recovery your going to want to wipe data/factory reset and wipe cache
4. Now choose install from sdcard and navigate to the files we put on there earlier, and install cm-11
5. When that is complete install gapps the same way you installed cm-11
6. REBOOT PHONE AND PROFIT!
Thats basically it people. After that is HIGHLY suggest going and reading the ORIGINAL posts where i got all of this info from, so you can be familiar yourselves Feel free to post any feedback or questions and ill get back to you ASAP!
Enjoy your new rooted and amazingly awesome SGH-i257m
SIDE NOTES:
1.Be sure to use the built in updater for Cyanogen! I have it set to check for updates DAILY (because its still in daily duuuuh ) and everything will work beautifully!
2.I DO NOT recommend restoring your apps data etc from your old rom using google backups, as it re-installs ALL the bloatware that is removed when you install CM11. Instead use an app like AppBak to give you a list of what you had so you can choose
Original Posts:
[GT-I9195][ROM][Official][4.4.2] CyanogenMod 11.0 Nightlies for S4 Mini LTE
[GT-I9190][ROM][Official][4.3.1] CyanogenMod 10.2 Nightlies for S4 Mini 3G
[RECOVERY][ROOT] Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini LTE (GT-I9195)
STOCK i257m ROMS for ALL Canadian Carriers
Sammobile Firmware List for SGH-i257m
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should help these folks that stumble upon this from google as well to show them how to unlock the phone to use in the States on ATT or Tmobile. When I unlocked mine I used the regionlockaway app after rooting using the s4 mini rootkit and was on stock rom. Was painless and smooth. Link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2470551
Also you could inform them that all lte roms work for our phone as in 9195 roms. BUT there kernels DO NOT work.
And just another thing about roms, Cyanogenmod is a basic AOSP with very little customizbility, Liquidsmooth is the best option for AOSP on our phones, Ive always hated basic cyanogenmod builds link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2676053 and also ive never liked clockworkmod recoveries as well lol.. we have twrp touchscreen recovery as an option on our phone: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2589011
EDIT: also if anyone is looking for stock rom firmwares to flash to odin they can be found here: http://www.sammobile.com/firmwares/ by searching for i257m and picking which carrier you want.
---------- Post added at 08:33 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:33 AM ----------
[/COLOR]
Omega2513 said:
Now we need someone to build an I257M rom
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All LTE roms work on our device. look for 9195 roms, there are plenty!

civicsr2cool said:
All LTE roms work on our device. look for 9195 roms, there are plenty!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They do but then they get identified as a 9195 and we lose features that are I257M exclusive.
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk

Omega2513 said:
They do but then they get identified as a 9195 and we lose features that are I257M exclusive.
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And what features are those? I thought we gained not lost,FM radio wasn't an option stock and it is after 9195 roms

Is this confirmed to be working on MK5? And does MI3 have KNOX installed or is it the MK5 update that installs it? Thanks in advance
Sent from my SM-G730W8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

civicsr2cool said:
And what features are those? I thought we gained not lost,FM radio wasn't an option stock and it is after 9195 roms
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are some S4 features such as the smart stay and some of the gestures that was put into the I257M and I haven't seen a 9195 rom with those in it. The radio is nice if you use it.
ninjablackwing said:
Is this confirmed to be working on MK5? And does MI3 have KNOX installed or is it the MK5 update that installs it? Thanks in advance
Sent from my SM-G730W8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do believe that MI3 has KNOX but there is something in Mk5 that makes it harder to get around.
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk

Omega2513 said:
There are some S4 features such as the smart stay and some of the gestures that was put into the I257M and I haven't seen a 9195 rom with those in it. The radio is nice if you use it.
I do believe that MI3 has KNOX but there is something in Mk5 that makes it harder to get around.
Sent from my SGH-I257M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply but I still want to know whether or not this method can root and install cwm on MK5.
Sent from my SM-G730W8 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

does this method work on the newly released i257 US AT&T?
Sent from my LG-E970 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Being completely new to the technical aspects of this phone i wanted some clarification on the details. I did some more research and asked a bunch of questions of ExiLeX420. He very graciously answered in detail. Thank you ExiLeX420. I incorporated the results as some Notes and Explanations into his original post and reproduced it here. Hope this helps, especially others who are new like me!
As i post this i have not done this procedure yet myself. I have been having a technical problem requiring that i return the phone for repair. Once that process is settled, or my warranty runs out, then i will consider doing this myself.
Note:
The phone is rooted once you INSTALL CM11 (arco has it pre rooted for you), but the KNOX flag is tripped when you flash the custom recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 onto the phone using Odin. Once you do this there is no going back! As soon as ANYTHING on the inside of the phone is modified via something other than Samsung it gets set to 0x1.
Before beginning do the following ...
Save your contacts to an external SD card
Download the stock i257m ROM from Sammobile. The link is at the end of this note. The stock ROM is actually very good to have because it allows you to start FRESH. Yes the KNOX flag will always be tripped, but it DOES allow you to get updates once you flash the stock ROM back onto the phone using Odin. But there is no need to update as CM11 runs on 4.4.
If you would like a list of all the apps on your phone then install AppBak and run it before proceeding with step 1 of the guide below. That way you'll have a list of all the apps you had if you want them back. The program even links them in the play store. Just run it again after finishing step 6 below to restore your apps. OTOH, if you have only a few apps to transfer over just write down a list and re-download/install them fresh.
====================
1.You need to download 4 files to your computer (linked below), and move gapps and CM 11 over to your phones storage - you could in theory use the internal storage but for the sake of this just use the external sd card.
Odin 3.09
gapps version 20140105
recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 extracted on your pc (YOU MUST USE THIS RECOVERY TO FLASH CM 11) just download it from that post
CyanogenMod 11 Nightly LTE VERSION
Notes:
gapps is a version of the google play store that works with CM 11 and allows you to download apps regularly, as if the phone wasn't modded.
Extracting the md5 from the zip is simple - just double click the zip and out comes the md5.
We are using the Nightly version of CyanogenMod rather than a release Candidate or even a Stable version because according to arco68 "the SGH-I257M ... in latest CM11 nightlies I've added a routine which will identify which variant it is, and it will set the model number accordingly. It sets the model number properly so you retain all of the features the phone comes with originally".
!!MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LATEST ABOVE VERSION OF CYANOGEN! IT IS THE GT-I9195 VERSION AND IS REQUIRED FOR YOUR PHONE TO WORK PROPERLY!! YOU MAY BRICK YOUR PHONE OTHERWISE
Now the fun part! After you have installed Odin and extracted recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 somewhere on your pc :
2. Turn off the phone.
-Press and hold home, volume down and power. A "Download" screen should appear (a big yellow triangle, youll know when you see it)
-Connect your USB cable, and press volume up to continue.
-Start Odin, and uncheck "F. Reset Time", and then click AP button.
-Select "recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5" file that you previously downloaded and extracted, and press Start button (Odin might seem like it hung up when you first load the file but just let it do its thing!! It eventually let you press start). The phone will reboot when finished.
-After the phone resets (it wil vibrate) IMMEDIATELY hold volume up and home buttons to boot into recovery mode. if you miss it dont worry you can always try again.
Note:
If you miss you don't have to do ALL of the above steps over; you just have to boot into recovery using the volume up and home buttons. Just keep the phone in your hand and wait for it to reboot and vibrate, and when it does hold the power, home, and volume up buttons and you'll get into recovery.
3. Once your in recovery your going to want to wipe data/factory reset and wipe cache.
Note:
This step is done to delete all the old data left from the stock ROM so nothing conflicts with CM11. Use this method ...
Turn your Galaxy S4 mini OFF.
Simultaneously press and hold the Volume Up + Home + Power buttons on your device until the logo appears, then release.
Once Android system recovery loads, use the volume buttons to navigate to ”Wipe data/Factory reset” and the power button to select it.
Confirm your choice by selecting “Yes”.
Select “Reboot System Now”.
There are separate options to Wipe Data/Factory Reset and Wipe Cache.
4. Now choose install from sdcard and navigate to the files we put on there earlier, and install cm-11
5. When that is complete install gapps the same way you installed cm-11
6. REBOOT PHONE AND PROFIT!
Thats basically it people. After that is HIGHLY suggest going and reading the ORIGINAL posts where i got all of this info from, so you can be familiar yourselves Feel free to post any feedback or questions and ill get back to you ASAP!
Enjoy your new rooted and amazingly awesome SGH-i257m
SIDE NOTES:
1.Be sure to use the built in updater for Cyanogen! I have it set to check for updates DAILY (because its still in daily duuuuh ) and everything will work beautifully!
2.I DO NOT recommend restoring your apps data etc from your old rom using google backups, as it re-installs ALL the bloatware that is removed when you install CM11. Instead use an app like AppBak to give you a list of what you had so you can choose
Original Posts:
[GT-I9195][ROM][Official][4.4.2] CyanogenMod 11.0 Nightlies for S4 Mini LTE
[GT-I9190][ROM][Official][4.3.1] CyanogenMod 10.2 Nightlies for S4 Mini 3G
[RECOVERY][ROOT] Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini LTE (GT-I9195)
STOCK i257m ROMS for ALL Canadian Carriers
Sammobile Firmware List for SGH-i257m

dynamiclynk said:
does this method work on the newly released i257 US AT&T?
Sent from my LG-E970 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate the detailed directions an did locate them through the search function of the forum.
I do not see that anyone confirmed that this process and these roms would work on the newly released AT&T SGH-I257 with volte. I appreciate any constructive responses.

thx for that but i have problem

mdawdy said:
Being completely new to the technical aspects of this phone i wanted some clarification on the details. I did some more research and asked a bunch of questions of ExiLeX420. He very graciously answered in detail. Thank you ExiLeX420. I incorporated the results as some Notes and Explanations into his original post and reproduced it here. Hope this helps, especially others who are new like me!
As i post this i have not done this procedure yet myself. I have been having a technical problem requiring that i return the phone for repair. Once that process is settled, or my warranty runs out, then i will consider doing this myself.
Note:
The phone is rooted once you INSTALL CM11 (arco has it pre rooted for you), but the KNOX flag is tripped when you flash the custom recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 onto the phone using Odin. Once you do this there is no going back! As soon as ANYTHING on the inside of the phone is modified via something other than Samsung it gets set to 0x1.
Before beginning do the following ...
Save your contacts to an external SD card
Download the stock i257m ROM from Sammobile. The link is at the end of this note. The stock ROM is actually very good to have because it allows you to start FRESH. Yes the KNOX flag will always be tripped, but it DOES allow you to get updates once you flash the stock ROM back onto the phone using Odin. But there is no need to update as CM11 runs on 4.4.
If you would like a list of all the apps on your phone then install AppBak and run it before proceeding with step 1 of the guide below. That way you'll have a list of all the apps you had if you want them back. The program even links them in the play store. Just run it again after finishing step 6 below to restore your apps. OTOH, if you have only a few apps to transfer over just write down a list and re-download/install them fresh.
====================
1.You need to download 4 files to your computer (linked below), and move gapps and CM 11 over to your phones storage - you could in theory use the internal storage but for the sake of this just use the external sd card.
Odin 3.09
gapps version 20140105
recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 extracted on your pc (YOU MUST USE THIS RECOVERY TO FLASH CM 11) just download it from that post
CyanogenMod 11 Nightly LTE VERSION
Notes:
gapps is a version of the google play store that works with CM 11 and allows you to download apps regularly, as if the phone wasn't modded.
Extracting the md5 from the zip is simple - just double click the zip and out comes the md5.
We are using the Nightly version of CyanogenMod rather than a release Candidate or even a Stable version because according to arco68 "the SGH-I257M ... in latest CM11 nightlies I've added a routine which will identify which variant it is, and it will set the model number accordingly. It sets the model number properly so you retain all of the features the phone comes with originally".
!!MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LATEST ABOVE VERSION OF CYANOGEN! IT IS THE GT-I9195 VERSION AND IS REQUIRED FOR YOUR PHONE TO WORK PROPERLY!! YOU MAY BRICK YOUR PHONE OTHERWISE
Now the fun part! After you have installed Odin and extracted recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5 somewhere on your pc :
2. Turn off the phone.
-Press and hold home, volume down and power. A "Download" screen should appear (a big yellow triangle, youll know when you see it)
-Connect your USB cable, and press volume up to continue.
-Start Odin, and uncheck "F. Reset Time", and then click AP button.
-Select "recovery-clockwork-6.0.4.6-serranoltexx.tar.md5" file that you previously downloaded and extracted, and press Start button (Odin might seem like it hung up when you first load the file but just let it do its thing!! It eventually let you press start). The phone will reboot when finished.
-After the phone resets (it wil vibrate) IMMEDIATELY hold volume up and home buttons to boot into recovery mode. if you miss it dont worry you can always try again.
Note:
If you miss you don't have to do ALL of the above steps over; you just have to boot into recovery using the volume up and home buttons. Just keep the phone in your hand and wait for it to reboot and vibrate, and when it does hold the power, home, and volume up buttons and you'll get into recovery.
3. Once your in recovery your going to want to wipe data/factory reset and wipe cache.
Note:
This step is done to delete all the old data left from the stock ROM so nothing conflicts with CM11. Use this method ...
Turn your Galaxy S4 mini OFF.
Simultaneously press and hold the Volume Up + Home + Power buttons on your device until the logo appears, then release.
Once Android system recovery loads, use the volume buttons to navigate to ”Wipe data/Factory reset” and the power button to select it.
Confirm your choice by selecting “Yes”.
Select “Reboot System Now”.
There are separate options to Wipe Data/Factory Reset and Wipe Cache.
4. Now choose install from sdcard and navigate to the files we put on there earlier, and install cm-11
5. When that is complete install gapps the same way you installed cm-11
6. REBOOT PHONE AND PROFIT!
Thats basically it people. After that is HIGHLY suggest going and reading the ORIGINAL posts where i got all of this info from, so you can be familiar yourselves Feel free to post any feedback or questions and ill get back to you ASAP!
Enjoy your new rooted and amazingly awesome SGH-i257m
SIDE NOTES:
1.Be sure to use the built in updater for Cyanogen! I have it set to check for updates DAILY (because its still in daily duuuuh ) and everything will work beautifully!
2.I DO NOT recommend restoring your apps data etc from your old rom using google backups, as it re-installs ALL the bloatware that is removed when you install CM11. Instead use an app like AppBak to give you a list of what you had so you can choose
Original Posts:
[GT-I9195][ROM][Official][4.4.2] CyanogenMod 11.0 Nightlies for S4 Mini LTE
[GT-I9190][ROM][Official][4.3.1] CyanogenMod 10.2 Nightlies for S4 Mini 3G
[RECOVERY][ROOT] Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini LTE (GT-I9195)
STOCK i257m ROMS for ALL Canadian Carriers
Sammobile Firmware List for SGH-i257m
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just for everyone using ATT model. This doesn't work for the Samsung SGH-I257 ATT model.

[ROOT][GUIDE][XSP]The Ultimate Noobs Guide to Rooting

THE ULTIMATE NOOBS GUIDE TO ROOTING​
Introduction
Hello there people!
I've always been a fan of helping others out and I thought this guide will be helpful to those who want to get started on rooting their device. I'm making this as sort of an updated thread to @DooMLoRD 's Amazing Guide (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354704). I hope that you guys are positive towards this thread and not be ungrateful to the effort I've given to this thread. On another note, please, wait NO, YOU MUST THANK :good::good: the developers in their specific threads as a form of appreciation to their hardwork they've put into creating a more vibrant world for the Android Community! Enough chatter, let's get on with dis! :fingers-crossed:
Disclaimer
By following this guide, you are hereby responsible to anything that happens to your device. By rooting, you are essentially VOIDING your warranty but there is a way to regain your warranty though. If you follow this guide CORRECTLY, I can assure you that 80% of the time, you won't hit into problems.
Rooting
The term "root" in Android is defined as "Unlocking Higher Privelages to your Android Device". Rooting can also be compared to the User Account Controls in Windows PCs. Traditional rooting methods are usually what steers users away from actualy from rooting their device but the newly released app named; "TowelRoot" is an application developed by world-renowned hacker GeoHot which aims to simplify the rooting process to a click of a button. To root the Sony Xperia SP, the TowelRoot Application is able to quickly allow you to root your device in a click. Follow the steps below to root your device in a matter of seconds!
Go to Settings > Security > and check Unknown Sources ON to allow us to install third-party apps.
If needed, untick the Verify Application option
Access http://towelroot.com
Tap on the Lambda Sign [The Letter in the middle of the website]
Save the application that is downloaded [Application name: tr.apk ]
Install the TowelRoot Application
Once installation is completed, open the app
Tap on the Make it Ra1n Button and give it a maximum of 2 minutes to excecute the rooting process
Once Finished, the application should say that you are rooted!
If the Installation Fails, your phone will just simply reboot. If it does fail, you might want to turn to DoomLord's Easy Rooting Toolkit: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2329208 or other sources
Install SuperSU by ChainsDD or ChainFire on the Play Store
Open the app and update its binary and you should be completed!
And DONE! It wasn't that complicated right? Although I think we exceeded that few seconds promise, you still got root access now!
BootLoader
There are some Xperia SP's that come with a LOCKED Bootloader. It is highly recommended to unlock your bootloader as it will give you much more opportunities to the Android World. DoomLord has the whole proccess covered in perfect detail so I rather you guys take a look at his amazing guide by clicking on the badass link that redirects to his awesome post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354721
Recovery
The main aim of obtaining a recovery for your device is to have the ability to install Android MODS, ROMS and more on your device. The most trusted Recoveries in Android are; ClockworkMOD, Team Win Recovery Project [TWRP] and PHILZ Touch (A touch version of ClockworkMOD). To get all three recoveries follow the steps below!
Visit this site on your computer: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2649923
Download the ZIP File
Unzip the file to your most preffered location
Head to the About Phone Section in your Xperia SP Settings
Press on the Build Number multiple times until the notification that says, You are now a developer or You're Already a Developer pops up
Go back to the main page of your settings
Open the Developer Options Tab
Locate the USB Debugging Option and tick it
Click the button on the top right to enable the Developer Options
Go back to the main screen of your Xperia SP (Launcher)
Run the Install.bat file on your computer
Select Option 1 to start the installation process
A notification should pop up on your Xperia SP Screen. Click on Accept to allow the install to continue
Once done, the Installer should notify you that the installation is complete
How to access a Recovery
It is important to get used to used to using a Recovery as it will reduce the chance of you running into problems. Your phone should now have 3 recoveries but we'll use the most trusted recovery which is the ClockworkMOD Recovery. To access the recovery follow this steps:
Turn on your device
Upon showing the SONY Logo, press and hold the Camera Button until a set of lights appear
If done correctly, you should be able to access CWM Recovery
Installing a Custom ROM
A Custom ROM is a custom-made android developed by Developers around the world. It is important to follow the steps shown by the Developer to install the Custom ROM to your device. If not, you can start saying goodbye to your Android as it will get what is known as a soft-brick. Every person has their own preffered custom ROMs that they use be it VANIR; a ROM based off pure Android, CyanogenMOD; a ROM based off its own system modifications and even your own Sony ROMs being made better! Take a look at this list at the thread below to find your own custom ROMs .Be sure to follow the instructions given by the Developer! It is also recommended that you look at the thread closely to see if there are any bugs and also required specifications before installing the ROM of your choice.
Redirect yo' ass to the thread by clicking on this small ass link to my right mate : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2683688
Android Kernels
An Android Kernel is the 'Software' that your hardware looks to to get functions working. Android Kernels for the Xperia SP are bound to the Android System/ROM that you have installed on your phone. Some Custom ROMs have their own Kernel built into them so again, look closely at the instructions on their specific thread. The links below will redirect you to the Kernels that are made available for the Xperia SP
Kernel for Stock Sony Firmware:
DooMKernel V13: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2345567
Williams Kernel V5.1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2750392
Stock .2.245 / .2.254 Kernel: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2404452
Kernel for CyanogenMOD and MIUI ROMS:
Williams Kernel V4: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2764939
NayakKernel V1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2581531
Installing MODS
Android Firmware generally gets shipped with bugs and issues that are mainly caused by phone manafacturers so it is wise to install MODs that help to improve your Android Experience even further. The list below shows you one of the most effective and great MODs that work on the Xperia SP. Check em' out mate! Follow the instructions to install the MODS to your device!
PurePerformancesX: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2360670
AdBlockPLUS: https://adblockplus.org/en/android
Backing Up your device
Sometimes we run into trouble so we will usually back up our devices either by the Cloud or by using a storage device. The most common way of backing up your device is by backing up a 'system image' of your device by using the application called NanDroid (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.h3r3t1c.onnandbup). Once installed, backup your device to your preferred storage device but we recommend backing it up to our good old SD Cards. Another way to backup your device is by creating a flashable zip of what YOU want to be backed up. This can be done through an all new application known as ZIPme by the famous (I think? ) JMRummyApps (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=zip.me). Choose what you want to be backed up with the app and store it in your SD Card.
Recovering your device
Its perfectly normal to soft-brick your device now and then but it is important to know how to recover your device from it! Here are 2 methods to recovering your poor Xperia SP to its original state(s).
1. By Recovery
So if you still have the custom recoveries installed on your device, you can simply use the backups that you made from the applications in the 'Backing Up your device section'. To use the backup to good use, make your way to the the Recovery of your device and follow the instructions below:
Factory Reset your device by clicking on the wipe data option on the menu
After wiping your device, go back to the main page by hitting the GO BACK button on the sceen
Hit the 'Install ZIp' option
Press Choose zip from SDCard1
Locate your NanDroid Backup
Hit Install and let the phone do its thing
Once completed, reboot device and you should have android back! If not, follow the next method to recover your device
1. By Flashtool
Flashtool is a utility that is able to flash (install) STOCK SONY Firmware to your device without a lot of hassle. Follow the steps below to get your ass more known to flashtool! :silly:
Download Flashtool to your computer here: http://www.flashtool.net/download.php
Once installed, download and install the drivers from this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2635830
If you're running on the useless (just kidding) Windows 8/8.1, follow the steps on this post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...bootloader-t2153261/post38878089#post38878089
Download your country-specific FTF (Firmware) File from this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2311964
Launch the Flashtool Utility
Click on the Lightning Button (Install Button)
Click the FlashMode Option
Locate your downloaded Firmware by pressing the button with the 3dots on the top right hand corner of the window
Select the Firmware
Click Flash
Follow the On-screen instructions after that
Reboot Device
Wait for maximum of 10minutes for rebuilding of system files
The Stock Android should pop-up and you can repeat all of the steps mentioned above to reroot your device!
Warranty Recovery
Preparing your device to obtain worthy of the warranty you got with your device means following the steps in the 'Recovering Your Device' and flashing the Stock SONY Firmware via flashtool. To Lock your bootloader again, follow the steps provided by AndroidTeen.com (Just a random site I found that helped me lock my bootloader ) http://androidteen.com/sony-xperia-sp-how-to-relock-bootloader/
Further Assistance
The Xperia SP community is full of derps people. If you ever run into any problems and such, please do post a informative thread that includes all the information you can provide and your help question in THIS forum section. It is also recommended to ask your question in the specific thread of your problem (eg. Installing a recovery problems and enquiries should be posted on its specific thread). You can also alternatively request for assistance on this thread too.
Epilogue
Thank you for following me in the guide this far and I hope you've benefited from this guide or maybe even give you a good read! Support this guide by leaving a BLOODY, I meant Nicely crafted Thanks by hitting the Thanks button for the thread! Be sure to support all of the developers and sources cited in this guide! Hope to see you again in my next guide! (It's a gaming guide ) If you want to contribute to the guide in any-way, (BIG or small) do PM me @Furrydaus and i'll look into it!
Credito's
>/The Legend @DooMLoRD
>/The Bad-ass GeoHot
>/The Smart @dssmex
>/The Compiler @mrjraider
>/Kernel Crafter @karthiknayak94
>/Kernel Creator @pec0ra
>/The All-Mighty @Jeeko
Contributers
Thank you for helping out in the Guide! Big or Small! :good:
>/[MENTION]@adebnath[/MENTION]
If the Installation Fails, your phone will just simply reboot. If it does fail, you might want to turn to DoomLord's Easy Rooting Toolkit: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2329208 or other sources
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Reserved
Changelog:
Added Alternatives to Rooting
Improved Grammar and Spelling of Guide
Added Contributers Section
Added more links to specific threads
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Can you please confirm TowelRoot is working with .207 stock rom?
Thanks.

adebnath said:
Can you please confirm TowelRoot is working with .207 stock rom?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TowelRoot should work on ALL Stock ROMs! Try it out! If it does fail, it will just reboot. Wow you just reminded me to add that statement in thanks! :good:

You know most of this intel can already be found here on the forum.
My rooting guide with towelroot, backing up the device, repairing it. Etc etc..
So I dont see the point of creating this guide?
~~ Regards

mrjraider said:
You know most of this intel can already be found here on the forum.
My rooting guide with towelroot, backing up the device, repairing it. Etc etc..
So I dont see the point of creating this guide?
~~ Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? Well this seems to be a huge waste of time. I think i'll just leave it here on the forums to improve those seacrhing for this threads. Do you mind posting your thread link here? Would love to take a look at it

NayakKernel is for cm 11 based ROM [emoji6]

Furrydaus said:
Really? Well this seems to be a huge waste of time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly what I was thinking.
For a device that's over a year old, it's quite normal that all the above has already been covered.
Anyway, it's not a bad idea to put all this "basic" information in one thread but I suggest you to post links to the individual threads.
That way people know where to post in case of questions or problems.

Gamm86 said:
Exactly what I was thinking.
For a device that's over a year old, it's quite normal that all the above has already been covered.
Anyway, it's not a bad idea to put all this "basic" information in one thread but I suggest you to post links to the individual threads.
That way people know where to post in case of questions or problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ill update the thread to make it more comprehensive as soon as I can.

OP is now updated with more sweg!
Check le Changelog for details! :silly:

My anti-virus shows me that there is a trojan in the tr.apk can i ignore that?

71cosmo said:
My anti-virus shows me that there is a trojan in the tr.apk can i ignore that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Its totally safe except if you dont follow the steps I stated

Great guide Furrydaus :good:

When I press make it a ran, it ask for internet connection although it is connected
Any idea?

mn399 said:
When I press make it a ran, it ask for internet connection although it is connected
Any idea?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try redownloading towelroot
Sent from my Xperia SP using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

272
adebnath said:
Can you please confirm TowelRoot is working with .207 stock rom?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes It is working. I root my device using towel root with .207 update