[Q] I'm sorry guys, rom help? - Galaxy S 4 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Ok guys, I'm sorry if this has been posted before but I'm really a noob to ROM and in deadly afraid of messing up since my s4 is the UNLOCKED one. Ie, I was smart enough to check xda first before accepting any OTA updates.
Now, my problem :
1: In every rom thread I see, people say how this or that is more stable, or this or that gives better performance. It's very confusing! Then when I go to the thread featuring said rom, it says "hey. Do this and that, then flash our rom".
At this point I get lost. How do I flash said rom? Yes, Google is my friend. It is also my enemy since it provides a lot of unnecessary and sometimes scary information. Ie, bricking. I don't want to mess up. I paid full price for this phone at best buy, but it isn't the dev edition. If I brick it I can return it but I won't have root. (ok, I checked. I'll have root but no room for rom)
2: I want a rom with better battery life and better performance, without needing to worry about continually updating each build. I can't decide on any roms. The best I can see seems to be hyperdrive?
3: I absolutely need/want said rom to work with all my current apps. Is this a concern at all or do they all work more or less? Some of the games I play use mpaax4. (galaxy on fire2)
4: what else am I missing? I'm not new to rooting. Just roms. The s4 was the hardest for me to root, requiring Odin. No one click method there!
Please be gentle. I'm not stupid, just afraid of messing up since at this point I have no safety net.

Omega rom by Indie is a nice TW based rom for instance that is very stable. Also nicely customisable and themable. You flash it with a custom recovery.

Now, my problem :
1: In every rom thread I see, people say how this or that is more stable, or this or that gives better performance. It's very confusing! Then when I go to the thread featuring said rom, it says "hey. Do this and that, then flash our rom".
At this point I get lost. How do I flash said rom?
-Flash via custom recovery (Philz, CWM, etc)
Yes, Google is my friend. It is also my enemy since it provides a lot of unnecessary and sometimes scary information. Ie, bricking. I don't want to mess up. I paid full price for this phone at best buy, but it isn't the dev edition. If I brick it I can return it but I won't have root. (ok, I checked. I'll have root but no room for rom)
2: I want a rom with better battery life and better performance, without needing to worry about continually updating each build. I can't decide on any roms. The best I can see seems to be hyperdrive?
-we cannot pinpoint the "best" rom. and these kind of questions are usually not allowed. the "best" rom differs with one's personal preference.. so you might have to read changelogs before flashing custom roms.
3: I absolutely need/want said rom to work with all my current apps. Is this a concern at all or do they all work more or less? Some of the games I play use mpaax4. (galaxy on fire2)
-yes, they will work regardless of what rom (unless you are on an aosp based rom and you want tw apps to work, the odds pretty slim unless someone ports the apps)
4: what else am I missing? I'm not new to rooting. Just roms. The s4 was the hardest for me to root, requiring Odin. No one click method there!
-odin is pretty the same with superoneclick.. basically, all you have to do is click on PDA, insert root file (usually .tar), put phone to download mode and plug it to pc, then click start.
*good luck!
Sent from my GT-I9505 using xda premium

Thread closed as its going to turn into a Best ROM thread.

Related

Need some Solid advice

Hi All
I got my international version SGS2 about 3 weeks ago. I am very happy with how its holding up currently but am trying to get the best battery life out of my phone. Coming from a Wave that lasted me 5 days without a problem I am trying to get something close to that.
I have a low to med usage pattern and it will most likely not change in the near future. I bought myself the Origianl Extended Battery 2000mAh and putting it through its paces now and currently on my 1st cycle.
Here is where I need the solid advice...
I am on the Original XFA firmware Android 2.3.3
1. I need to know if I can revert everything back to the original firmware when I need it and remove the root as well?
2. Can someone provide me with the Original FW as I have checked Check Fus and it cant even find the one installed on my phone?
3. Are the benefits of later Android versions really that much better or will I experience much the same as I am experiencing now on the Stock FW?
4. What are the real benefits of rooting and how does it affect my phone?
5. What Kernel should I flash if I decide to root my device as there are hundreds out there with no real explanation of the difference?
These are just some of my concerns and even though 2 days of reading XDA provided some idea into some of these things the explanations was very vague and not really helpfull in understanding what the actual benefits would be
If anyone could assist me I would be very grateful.
Hello, so.. i realize my english isnt perfect, im sorry:
1. When you root, you will have Clockworkmod recovery. This recovery allows you to do a nandroid backup, this backup can be used when you want, to restore the phone with a perfect mirror image of when you created the backup. Ofc it requires a rooted phone, this means it will mirror your 2.3.3 firmware, with root.
2. Intratech link to official firmwares: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1075278
This firmwares are originals, this mean the phone is going back to the original status as when you bought it (no root, no cwm). This will not remove the Download mode Counter that is incresed by 1 everytime you flash a custom firmware/kernel (rooting increases it).
3. Yes, the benefits can be noticed by a lot more smooth interface, faster browser, and some other small things. Specially if you are experiencing the "yellow left side screen" from the 2.3.5 it got fixed.
4. This is a good question, if you ask it, means you are quite happy with your actual situation and dont feel the need of rooting.
The real benefits are to be able to flash custom roms or kernels, that usually give more speed and gadgets compared to the stock firmware. This also allow you to use themes, to change partially or totally the aspect of your phone.
Some games dosnt work (not optimized for the S2) but with chainfire 3d (requires root) you can run almost every game for android).
5. You must start with CF-Root (easiest way) for root, this link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399
Install latest Samsung Kies to get latest samsung mobile usb drivers, but be 100% sure to kill kies process tree (from task manager) before flash with odin, kies dosnt like odin and blocks it at some point, resulting in a chance to semi brick the phone.
Carefull follow the instructions on the post and in 20-30 seconds you done.
After you obtained root, all the kernels for the S2 can be used, most populars are speedmod and siyah (im on this last) due the great stabilty/speed.
As last note, please be sure 100% you want/need to root:
Rooting void your warranty, ofc you can buy a usb jig to reset the counter and have again your warranty.
Be sure you understand rooting is not 100% safe, nor is any rom/kernel that you will flash.
Nowdays is really hard to brick a phone, but a really small chance to brick is always here, specially if you are not 100% sure on what you are doing.
@rembrandtlnx
Thanks a lot. You have been more helpful than reading XDA for 2 days solidly trying to find out what to do.
At the current moment I don't really see any benefit in rooting. My phone is not presenting with any of the battery draining bugs some users are finding so I am not sure if updating the firmware would be that helpful.
I don't use my phone for a gaming station so I don't play games on it.
toxicdust said:
@rembrandtlnx
Thanks a lot. You have been more helpful than reading XDA for 2 days solidly trying to find out what to do.
At the current moment I don't really see any benefit in rooting. My phone is not presenting with any of the battery draining bugs some users are finding so I am not sure if updating the firmware would be that helpful.
I don't use my phone for a gaming station so I don't play games on it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed if you are happy on the actual rom for you rooting dosnt make a big difference. I rooted both mines mainly to have the Miui, i always wanted it but my old poor phone wasnt supported.
Anyway, feel free to ask in future if you change your mind
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
rembrandtlnx said:
Indeed if you are happy on the actual rom for you rooting dosnt make a big difference. I rooted both mines mainly to have the Miui, i always wanted it but my old poor phone wasnt supported.
Anyway, feel free to ask in future if you change your mind
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have another few questions
1. Reading your links I noticed I don't need to root to flash original firmwares to my phone. If I do flash a original firmware to my phone using Odin does my counter increase and will i have that annoying ! at boot up?
2. Is there some way to retain the CSC while flashing?
3. If I flash with just 1 .tar file it would seem to contain all 3 segments PDA, Phone and CSC or would it just replace the PDA and keep the Phone and CSC in tact?
What my aim is that I want to update my Android as I go along but don't want to drop my CSC and I prefer having the compatibility with my provider as it makes it easier and more compatible with the network especially for international dialling.

New to epic

Can someone give me link on how to properly root epic 4g
Former Army sergeant 11C
Next time check out the stickies before you post.
Here you go, http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1009997
Take your time
Just wanted to tell you to read read read and take your time. The Epic is a little more in depth unit, and the best thing you can do is research. There is a lot of memory and ram tweaks, tons of roms, and tons of themes and hacks to use. I suggest going to YouTube and checking out some of QBking77's 'how to' videos, he has tons of great stuff and is really good about how he explains everything, he also is an avid supporter...meaning he definitely will get back to you if you have any questions. As the previous poster said, it is wise to read through as much as possible though, as this unit has been out awhile and there is a lot of information, I would say 95% of your questions are most likely already answered. But good luck!
Kchitown1977 said:
Can someone give me link on how to properly root epic 4g
Former Army sergeant 11C
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your service, sgt.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using Tapatalk
yea check out this dude.
put qbking77 on youtube
he's got all the info you could possibly need on sprint phones
Even with reading lots of threads it would be hard to know where to start.
What you need to know:
ODIN - a tool which lets you directly flash "stuff" (roms, kernels, recoveries) to your phone when in download mode. Find threads/directions to get this all setup because you'll need it. (drivers, etc) Be careful with Odin, it can brick your phone if you don't follow directions.
CWM 3101 - Current version of clockwork recovery mod. This is what you need to be able to flash things from the SD Card.
EI22 - Current version of Gingerbread OS. Don't use anything older. The stock kernel from samsung will overwrite any custom recovery at bootup, so if you want CWM you will need to use a custom kernel. Most (all?) custom ROMs include a custom kernel so if you go the route of a custom ROM this becomes a non-issue.
rocket321 said:
Even with reading lots of threads it would be hard to know where to start.
What you need to know:
ODIN - a tool which lets you directly flash "stuff" (roms, kernels, recoveries) to your phone when in download mode. Find threads/directions to get this all setup because you'll need it. (drivers, etc) Be careful with Odin, it can brick your phone if you don't follow directions.
CWM 3101 - Current version of clockwork recovery mod. This is what you need to be able to flash things from the SD Card.
EI22 - Current version of Gingerbread OS. Don't use anything older. The stock kernel from samsung will overwrite any custom recovery at bootup, so if you want CWM you will need to use a custom kernel. Most (all?) custom ROMs include a custom kernel so if you go the route of a custom ROM this becomes a non-issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
rocket321, Very good information for the beginners.
Here is the link directly to QBking77. It's a step-by-step video explaining how to install my personal favorite ROM to date, "ACS ICS 4.0". Very clean look, very stable, pre-rooted, overclockable.
http://www.youtube.com/user/qbking77#p/u/30/GZCF5qXsn_M
Another thing worth mentioning is that only certain Kernel's with work certain ROM's. The kernel included in that ACS ICS ROM is the Samurai Kernel. I do recommend installing the "Samurai-2.6.35_gen1.0.4+" with the ACS ICS ROM at...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1342047
rocket321 said:
Even with reading lots of threads it would be hard to know where to start.
What you need to know:
ODIN - a tool which lets you directly flash "stuff" (roms, kernels, recoveries) to your phone when in download mode. Find threads/directions to get this all setup because you'll need it. (drivers, etc) Be careful with Odin, it can brick your phone if you don't follow directions.
CWM 3101 - Current version of clockwork recovery mod. This is what you need to be able to flash things from the SD Card.
EI22 - Current version of Gingerbread OS. Don't use anything older. The stock kernel from samsung will overwrite any custom recovery at bootup, so if you want CWM you will need to use a custom kernel. Most (all?) custom ROMs include a custom kernel so if you go the route of a custom ROM this becomes a non-issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good explanation, I didn't mean to sound off putting by saying do your own work and research...there are plenty of people in here willing to help, hence why I mentioned QBKing77; dude knows his ****, and his how to videos are great for noobs (myself included) and experts alike. I just believe you should do your homework...get some base knowledge, and jump in...you can learn a lot from how to videos, but you'll never get better of you just rely on other people to show you what to do.
Odin is key, get comfortable with this program.
sent Epically via XDA mobile
EI22 ACS ICS
One more thing...ditch the usb cable that came with the epic. Its crap. Go to best buy (or other mega store) and get a blackberry cable. You will need this for odin.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
and if you love your keyboard, but hate that it tends to skip when you're typing too fast, a good rom is the way to go.
Yeah, definitely get rid of the stock Sammy mUSB, it was the cause of a lot of my initial problems. Blackberry and HTC cables have worked great.
Like I sad, these devices have been out awhile, and there is TONS of really great stuff available, check out the development section, and just absorb as much as you can...also, take advantage of the general and q and sections of the forum.
Good luck!
sent Epically via XDA mobile
EI22 ACS ICS
V6 supercharged, adrenaline injected

want your GS2 as close as possible to stock with PHENOMENAL battery life? READ THIS!

This is my first post on xda, but don´t underestimate me because of that. In fact, I´ve been following all the GS2 sections and read ALL the tutorials since i got my phone a couple of months ago. Never needed to open an account here to do all the customizations on my phone; This should tell a lot about the completeness of this forum (i.e. SEARCH, there´s a 95% chance that your question is already answered in some thread).
In fact i´m baffled by the amount of people that appears to be unhappy with their phones, doing lots of changes in kernels, roms, themes, etc., looking to improve performance, battery life, fanciness or only for the sake of change. In my experience, you won´t get a "life changing" improvement in GS2 only by a software change. As official firmwares get more and more advanced, their performance delta in contrast with custom firmware gets smaller. The only two areas where the gap is still big lies on eye candy and usability. Moreover, with Ice Cream Sandwich knocking at the door, there´s no additional functionality coming from newer Gingerbread firmware versions.
The customization I have done involves kernel and rom, and prioritize stability and energy comsumption over up to date firmware (as i said in the last paragraph, ICS is not ready yet and latter gingerbread versions doesn´t bring anything new). With that, I could achieve a battery life of 3+ days with average use; For demonstration, i´ve just checked my phone and it shows 2 days and 15 hours with 60% charge. Naturally I am not a heavy user, and the phone is deep sleeping on average 80% of the time, but here on the forum is generally assumed that a drain of 1%/hour is very good mark, so i guess this combo provides excellent battery life (0,6%/hour). I can testify it´s rock solid as well - I´ve been using it for almost a month without any FCs or reboots. And this scheme doesn´t involve underclocking at all, so don´t worry about performance.
Unfortunately (at least for the "spooners") this guide won´t have any images, just links to the respective threads - I´m assuming you do want to learn and read to get your information. The main purpose of this guide is to point a safe/fast/easy way of doing all the stuff, avoiding the need to read all the tutorials and choose the best route among many roads that lead to the same place in the end. The target reader is the complete beginner, who has a desire to learn and unlock his phone in a safe way. Naturally i am not responsible if you blow up your phone or something like that while following this guide; I´ve followed this and it works on my phone, that´s all i can say. I will describe here exactly what i did, step by step, since i opened that damned box
So without further ado, this is it:
1) Getting root
1.1) Install the samsung drivers and software (KIES) on your computer ( http://www.samsung.com/ae/support/d...d_mdl_name=GT-I9100/M16&srchword=Galaxy+S+II# )
1.2) Download the zergrush exploit (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1321582). If needed (and you will), read the zergrush guide on the respective thread. Warning: There´s a chance that your phone firmware is already patched, so this exploit won´t work.
1.2.1) IF AND ONLY IF zergush doesn´t work on your phone, you will have to use Odin to flash CF-Root (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399). Read the thread.
2) Backup
2.0) Although you can do all the flashing with Odin, i must assume i´m a lazy person, so i bought Mobile Odin from Android Market. It simplifies A LOT the process of flashing things on the GS2, and as a bonus it doesn´t change the rom counter on the phone! (Read this : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1347899)
2.1) It´s an excellent idea to download CF-Root kernel for your kernel version and flash it (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1103399 - read the thread to know how to find your kernel version), then enter clockworkmod recovery and do a backup of your internal card (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1118693).
2.2) After getting root, install Titanium Backup (from android store) and backup everything you need on the phone. Backup the efs folder as well (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1308546).
2.3) Store all backups you made in a safe place (that means away from your phone). Pray to the Android gods with faith, and you will never have to use them.
3) Customization
3.1) Download firmware version KK2 (http://www.multiupload.com/PBBE9HBXTS). Flash it, then enter CWM and clean cache and Dalvik. After that, you will lose root, all your customizations and all installed software. PS: Here in Brazil the last firmware version is 2.3.4, so this version still brings many improvements. If you already have a newer version on your phone, keep it.
3.2) Download CF-Root kernel for KK2 (see step 2.1). Flash it on your phone to get root back.
3.3) Install Titanium Backup again and use the backup you did on step 2.2 to get all your software back, including Mobile Odin if you bought it.
3.4) Download Ninphetamine kernel version 2.1.3 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1179814) and flash it.
3.5) Install voltage control (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=829731) and use it to do the following settings:
* General - don´t change anything
* Voltages : 200 mhz / 850 mv ; 500 mhz / 850 mv ; 800 mhz / 950 mv ; 1000 mhz / 1050 mv ; 1200 mhz / 1150 mv
3.6) Download Bloat Freezer from android market and use it to freeze all stuff you don´t want. (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1069924)
And it´s done. You can continue from where i stopped, installing jkay mod for eye candy and more functionality (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1154278), trying a custom firmware like Cyanogen, changing your kernel or doing God knows what. If you read all the stuff i´ve linked, i´m sure you can go on with your own legs from now on. The phone is yours to mess with!
You root with Zergush then you root with CF root then you flash firmware and wipe CF root then CF root again
Why not flash KK2 then cwm and root .
Or even just flash CWM root and do a nandroid backup then flash KK2 .
jje
Well, i just reproduced step by step what i did to customize my phone from the moment i opened the box. I was really afraid of changing the internal ROM counter, and was afraid as well of using odin, so i opted to use zergrush and buy mobile odin, and i still think that is the easiest and most secure way for the complete noob to customize his phone.
You are part right, because the KK2 firmware will not change the rom counter, but you must use odin to flash it. Mobile odin is easier, but if the reader is okay with using odin, in fact he will pass over many steps of the guide.
And when you say "You root with Zergush then you root with CF root", that´s not true. In fact, i recommend using zergrush and ONLY if it doesnt work you should use CF-Root instead.
b_sal said:
This is my first post on xda, but don´t underestimate me because of that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll try and give you the benefit of the doubt then.
b_sal said:
The customization I have done involves kernel and rom, and prioritize stability and energy comsumption over up to date firmware (as i said in the last paragraph, ICS is not ready yet and latter gingerbread versions doesn´t bring anything new). With that, I could achieve a battery life of 3+ days with average use
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn, I shouldn't have bothered.
Your post is written in such a way that it might fool an idiot into thinking you know what you're talking about, but it's pretty clear you don't. Let's see some of the things I took issue with in your post.
There's no such thing as "average use".
You recommend an old ROM.
Your "tutorial" involves several unnecessary, repeated steps (root, then flash a rooted kernel, then flash another rooted kernel ad infinitum?)
Your customisations are nothing more than undervolting which is specific to your device and some rather vague freeze stuff you don't want statement.
You finish the post by saying you can flash a different, AOSP based ROM, after all of the spam before it, negating everything.
Overall, good job.
JJEgan said:
You root with Zergush then you root with CF root then you flash firmware and wipe CF root then CF root again
Why not flash KK2 then cwm and root .
Or even just flash CWM root and do a nandroid backup then flash KK2 .
jje
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
His kinda defying the point of his root method.
Ignoring the repetitions, the post's still very useful. I'm on a 2.3.4 ROM as well and the OP's right about the minimal delta improvements of gingerbread updates.
Okay, i think you are not getting the objectives of the post:
1) it reproduces exactly what a noob (me) did to unlock his phone.
2) I never said i know every single way of rooting the phone, and didn´t made this post to prove anything.
3) it´s not exactly meant for the senior members, or at least, the senior members should filter from the post only the info they judge is valid for them.
4) it´s very clear in the post that i´m prioritizing stability and battery life over firmware versions. So i guess you bashed before reading the part i say that.
5) i really did that in the good intention of helping newbies to find their way, reading the links i "spammed" on the guide. But I may be hurting more than helping, who knows? If so, sorry, i´ll get back to reading, i don´t really mind writing guides at all.
b_sal said:
Okay, i think you are not getting the objectives of the post:
1) it reproduces exactly what a noob (me) did to unlock his phone.
2) I never said i know every single way of rooting the phone, and didn´t made this post to prove anything.
3) it´s not exactly meant for the senior members, or at least, the senior members should filter from the post only the info they judge is valid for them.
4) it´s very clear in the post that i´m prioritizing stability and battery life over firmware versions. So i guess you bashed before reading the part i say that.
5) i really did that in the good intention of helping newbies to find their way, reading the links i "spammed" on the guide. But I may be hurting more than helping, who knows? If so, sorry, i´ll get back to reading, i don´t really mind writing guides at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my friend by all means you have put all your information nicely organized and nicely put. you do have good intentions and please carry on doing what you are doing. but you need to re-evaluate what you have written because you might get people getting confused by what you are guiding them through. and plus they are already stickies regarding guides and the threads in development that helps people on how to root phones.
Give you one example you say to people the guide on how to zergrush exploit. and then you ask them do download a cf-root for something else. can not go through the whole thread. but you are asking people to re root twice with two different methods. hence why people above are pointing out to you...anyway good luck and hope you get the feedback you are looking for from this thread
Suarez7 said:
my friend by all means you have put all your information nicely organized and nicely put. you do have good intentions and please carry on doing what you are doing. but you need to re-evaluate what you have written because you might get people getting confused by what you are guiding them through. and plus they are already stickies regarding guides and the threads in development that helps people on how to root phones.
Give you one example you say to people the guide on how to zergrush exploit. and then you ask them do download a cf-root for something else. can not go through the whole thread. but you are asking people to re root twice with two different methods. hence why people above are pointing out to you...anyway good luck and hope you get the feedback you are looking for from this thread
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess that´s a good feedback on the post. I know there is a lot of guides on xda, and that´s a lot of information. Because of that, i had to read lots of tutorials, filter many of them saying mostly the same things, and assembling all the parts together in the end. So i thought of writing something that would unify all that, to make easier to the beginner and to avoid people having to read all the guides, like i had to do. I don´t feel the urge to do something perfect on my first post, but i fully acknowledge the need to edit the post and add more information about discarding some steps and adding alternative ways to get to the result. But in the end, i´m sure someone who follows it will as it is now won´t have any problems and will get the battery life i´m telling.
Download Ninphetamine kernel
your joking right, no doubt it was a good kernel at the time but it's old hat now technology advances everyday and there are far better kernels on here now that will offer much better battery life,etc,etc
I'm not knocking your post but most on here would know all of this already, noobs will just keep posting duplicate questions regardless of how many times they have already been answered previously.
oinkylicious said:
Let's see some of the things I took issue with in your post.
There's no such thing as "average use".
You recommend an old ROM.
Your "tutorial" involves several unnecessary, repeated steps (root, then flash a rooted kernel, then flash another rooted kernel ad infinitum?)
Your customisations are nothing more than undervolting which is specific to your device and some rather vague freeze stuff you don't want statement.
You finish the post by saying you can flash a different, AOSP based ROM, after all of the spam before it, negating everything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the post can be improved, so i´m taking your suggestions as well:
1) Okay, i think that expression can be changed.
2) I haven´t found any evidence of KK5 and latter improving battery life, that´s why i recommend KK2.
3) Like i said before, I was worried about the rom counter issue, and didn´t know i was going to flash an official firmware. I guess that if you want to install a custom firmware without incrementing the counter you must do what i did. If that´s not true, please let me know and i will change that.
4) Many people are using this same voltages on the forums without issues, and i just told what settings i use. Many beginners have this curiosity about what settings "everybody" is using.
5) In the end everybody is free to do whatever they want. If they read all the links and felt confidence about doing anything else, then the guide´s job is done in the same way.
jonny68 said:
Download Ninphetamine kernel
your joking right, no doubt it was a good kernel at the time but it's old hat now technology advances everyday and there are far better kernels on here now that will offer much better battery life,etc,etc
I'm not knocking your post but most on here would know all of this already, noobs will just keep posting duplicate questions regardless of how many times they have already been answered previously.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You may call me an heretic or whatever, but i really don´t see the point of, say, Siyah kernel launching a new version every couple days. I´m using Ninphetamine and it does everything my phone can do. A mobile phone is not (yet) the same thing as a desktop computer, so it doesnt need kernels updated that fast. I ask in all my noobiness : What the newer kernels can do that this kernel can´t?
b_sal said:
4) Many people are using this same voltages on the forums without issues, and i just told what settings i use. Many beginners have this curiosity about what settings "everybody" is using.
5) In the end everybody is free to do whatever they want. If they read all the links and felt confidence about doing anything else, then the guide´s job is done in the same way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you're still missing the point a bit. The name of your thread is "want your GS2 as close as possible to stock with PHENOMENAL battery life? READ THIS!"
The thread doesn't really address anything relating to battery life (such as wakelocks, misbehaving applications, screen brightness, signal strength). Voltage modifications which work for you may not work for someone else and the battery savings are negligible. You also don't mention the risks involved.
Then, since you've pulled me up on me taking issue with you saying to flash CM7, I'll repeat. Your thread title is "want your GS2 as close as possible to stock with PHENOMENAL battery life? READ THIS!" CM7 is about as far from stock as you can get. Also, telling people to flash a custom kernel (Ninphetamine) and saying it's "as close as possible to stock" is pretty absurd.
jonny68 said:
Download Ninphetamine kernel
your joking right, no doubt it was a good kernel at the time but it's old hat now technology advances everyday and there are far better kernels on here now that will offer much better battery life,etc,etc
I'm not knocking your post but most on here would know all of this already, noobs will just keep posting duplicate questions regardless of how many times they have already been answered previously.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One of the best kernels of all time. If it's not broken why fix it.
O/T I think we miss Harce. Post 5 was awesome most newb posts are post 5 material.
Look at VillainRom, see what base it is using, and why it's also a popular rom.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk
oinkylicious said:
I think you're still missing the point a bit. The name of your thread is "want your GS2 as close as possible to stock with PHENOMENAL battery life? READ THIS!"
The thread doesn't really address anything relating to battery life (such as wakelocks, misbehaving applications, screen brightness, signal strength). Voltage modifications which work for you may not work for someone else and the battery savings are negligible. You also don't mention the risks involved.
Then, since you've pulled me up on me taking issue with you saying to flash CM7, I'll repeat. Your thread title is "want your GS2 as close as possible to stock with PHENOMENAL battery life? READ THIS!" CM7 is about as far from stock as you can get. Also, telling people to flash a custom kernel (Ninphetamine) and saying it's "as close as possible to stock" is pretty absurd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since you´ve commented only about items 4 and 5, should i assume that you have nothing to say about items 1-3? I´m looking forward to read your opinion about that too.
You are damn right about item 4. For the sake of completeness i should warn about the risks of messing with voltages and the other topics you mentioned. You may not believe, but i really don´t see this thing as "my post" anymore. I guess we could improve on it and make it good , even if just for a person or two.
About item 5, i must disagree a little. Well, i say "as close as possible to stock" and not "stock". If i don´t change anything, so it´s stock, right? What you would define as "close to stock" then?
And the guide ended before the CM part - What I recommend is installing the KK2 firmware + ninphetamine + voltage settings, nothing else. I only left open the possibility of any customizations the reader wants to do, i´m not saying CM7 or jkay installation is a "must do".
b_sal said:
Since you´ve commented only about items 4 and 5, should i assume that you have nothing to say about items 1-3? I´m looking forward to read your opinion about that too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
b_sal said:
1) Okay, i think that expression can be changed.
2) I haven´t found any evidence of KK5 and latter improving battery life, that´s why i recommend KK2.
3) Like i said before, I was worried about the rom counter issue, and didn´t know i was going to flash an official firmware. I guess that if you want to install a custom firmware without incrementing the counter you must do what i did. If that´s not true, please let me know and i will change that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't really respond to 1). 2) I still disagree with, there's no reason to stick to an old version, especially one which is not supported by the latest version of the JKay mod (which you later recommend). Therefore, in my opinion it makes more sense to recommend XWKL1. 3). The process to get what you wanted was zergrush followed by flashing Ninphetamine (with mobile Odin/other app to avoid counter increase). None of the other kernel flashing was necessary.
b_sal said:
About item 5, i must disagree a little. Well, i say "as close as possible to stock" and not "stock". If i don´t change anything, so it´s stock, right? What you would define as "close to stock" then?
And i the guide ended before that. I only left open the possibility of any customizations the reader wants to do, i´m not saying CM7 or jkay installation is a "must do".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing any custom kernel, especially one which describes itself as "Now with 100% less Samsungyness" in the thread title is deviating a lot from stock. I would define "close to stock" in that regard as CF-Root.
b_sal said:
You may call me an heretic or whatever, but i really don´t see the point of, say, Siyah kernel launching a new version every couple days. I´m using Ninphetamine and it does everything my phone can do. A mobile phone is not (yet) the same thing as a desktop computer, so it doesnt need kernels updated that fast. I ask in all my noobiness : What the newer kernels can do that this kernel can´t?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tend to agree with you which is why i don't bother with Siyah anymore i just stick to Speedmod which is pretty much proven as having the best battery life out of all the current kernels available.
What the newer kernels can do that this kernel can´t?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well Siyah at this stage of development probably has many more features, Speedmod offers the best battery life which is good for me

[Q] First time Tablet/Android buyer.

Hello all,
I just ordered a new Note 10.1 from Costco.com (32 gig) and from reading reviews and such I was thrown into the world of rooting. For my job, we were given iPhones so I've really only had an iPhone and am used to the iOS. Not a fan. Have always wanted to try Android but have never been thrown into it.
Are there any good guides out there to help me better understand rooting, etc.? I understand that you have to unlock it, then flash a custom ROM. What happens when the newer version of that ROM comes out? Do you lose all of your Data? Can any mod be installed on any ROM? I just don't have a good understanding of how or what to do. Granted, I don't even have the tablet yet, however, I don't want to be completely lost when I get it. I do like the idea of rooting, given that you can install powerful apps that are only offered to rooted tablets.
This is my first post here and am hoping for some helpful responses of maybe some threads that I should read to help me understand things better.
Also, where do you find custom ROMS? Is there a certain section you have to go? Or are all the custom ROMS under the ANDROID DEVELOPMENT forum?
Thanks for the help.
Rooting gives you access to the base files of your device. Your device does not need to be "unlocked." That term refers to modifying the device to work with other carriers (i.e. Sprint, ATT, etc) other than the one it was built to work with. Basically, in order to root, you must first install a custom "recovery." CWM (Clockwork Mod Recovery) is probably the best one for our Notes. The recovery files can be downloaded in the development forums. Along with the program (Odin) that you use to get the recovery installed onto your Note. Once you have CWM installed you can then use a couple of different methods to root or install a custom rom that is already rooted (again look for these roms in the development areas of this forum). Make sure that you read and re-read the instructions that each developer lists on their forum until you feel comfortable and then follow the instructions to the letter! Not doing so can result in your Note really getting messed up. I have not rooted my note yet, however I have rooted and installed custom ROMs to several android phones that I have or have had and it can be really worth it to do so. Personally I am waiting for awhile with my Note for some easier and more reliable methods and ROMs to become available. Right now, I have a Samsung Infuse phone with CM10 installed and a Samsung Captivate with Slim Rom-Jellybean on it. I believe that early versions of both of these ROMs are already available for the Note 10.1. Of the two ROMs, I would probably go with CM10 - (Cyanogen Mod) as it seems to be more stable on my phones. Also, when you install a custom ROM on the Note 10.1, there is a binary counter that advances, that lets anyone who would have to work on it (like for warranty service), know that a custom ROM was installed and that would violate your warranty. There is already a modification available (again, in the development section), that resets this counter, so make sure that you research that too! Good Luck!!!
wd4oay said:
Rooting gives you access to the base files of your device. Your device does not need to be "unlocked." That term refers to modifying the device to work with other carriers (i.e. Sprint, ATT, etc) other than the one it was built to work with. Basically, in order to root, you must first install a custom "recovery." CWM (Clockwork Mod Recovery) is probably the best one for our Notes. The recovery files can be downloaded in the development forums. Along with the program (Odin) that you use to get the recovery installed onto your Note. Once you have CWM installed you can then use a couple of different methods to root or install a custom rom that is already rooted (again look for these roms in the development areas of this forum). Make sure that you read and re-read the instructions that each developer lists on their forum until you feel comfortable and then follow the instructions to the letter! Not doing so can result in your Note really getting messed up. I have not rooted my note yet, however I have rooted and installed custom ROMs to several android phones that I have or have had and it can be really worth it to do so. Personally I am waiting for awhile with my Note for some easier and more reliable methods and ROMs to become available. Right now, I have a Samsung Infuse phone with CM10 installed and a Samsung Captivate with Slim Rom-Jellybean on it. I believe that early versions of both of these ROMs are already available for the Note 10.1. Of the two ROMs, I would probably go with CM10 - (Cyanogen Mod) as it seems to be more stable on my phones. Also, when you install a custom ROM on the Note 10.1, there is a binary counter that advances, that lets anyone who would have to work on it (like for warranty service), know that a custom ROM was installed and that would violate your warranty. There is already a modification available (again, in the development section), that resets this counter, so make sure that you research that too! Good Luck!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are some of the main benefits to rooting then? I would think that if you have rooted a lot of phones you would for sure want your tablet rooted..?? Can you still perform mods to your tablet if it's NOT rooted? I saw someone with a cube on their homescreen with all their apps on it. It was 3D and pretty sweet looking. Will I be able to do stuff like that if I keep it stock.
Another thing, I read that you can't put apps on the expandable storage unless you root it...That is something I would like to do because I plan on putting games on it and such. Seems crappy you can't install some of the bigger apps on your 64 gig sd.
A lot is going to depend on which version of software you get initially on your tablet. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT let your tablet update the software when you first get it. The reason I say this is, if you have the older version of the software there is a very simple way to root your device. It's a simple install of one program and pushing a button. Very very easy.
If you get lucky and you get the older software and then root using the program I'm talking about, the next step is to spend $5 and buy Mobile Odin Pro. You can then download from here the latest software for your device and flash it using Mobile Odin with the ever root option. This will keep root on your new software. This will put you on the latest stock software and keep you rooted.
Custom ROMs can be nice. But I'd get my feet wet with the stock ROM before you start to jump into the Customs. First, stock on the Note 10.1 is pretty damn good. Second, you need to have some familiarity with what you want to be able to choose the right custom ROM to suit your needs. Finally, you'll give yourself some time to learn about your device so that you don't make a fatal mistake flashing, though most can be flashed using Mobile Odin.
Alas, if you get your Note and it turns out to have the latest ROM already, you can pretty much ignore everything I wrote.
just to give you one more thing to think about.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1957002
stock is nice btw
midas69 said:
A lot is going to depend on which version of software you get initially on your tablet. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT let your tablet update the software when you first get it. The reason I say this is, if you have the older version of the software there is a very simple way to root your device. It's a simple install of one program and pushing a button. Very very easy.
If you get lucky and you get the older software and then root using the program I'm talking about, the next step is to spend $5 and buy Mobile Odin Pro. You can then download from here the latest software for your device and flash it using Mobile Odin with the ever root option. This will keep root on your new software. This will put you on the latest stock software and keep you rooted.
Custom ROMs can be nice. But I'd get my feet wet with the stock ROM before you start to jump into the Customs. First, stock on the Note 10.1 is pretty damn good. Second, you need to have some familiarity with what you want to be able to choose the right custom ROM to suit your needs. Finally, you'll give yourself some time to learn about your device so that you don't make a fatal mistake flashing, though most can be flashed using Mobile Odin.
Alas, if you get your Note and it turns out to have the latest ROM already, you can pretty much ignore everything I wrote.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good to know. Thank you.
jaydubbbbs said:
just to give you one more thing to think about.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1957002
stock is nice btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. I'll check that out. Now, the process that you linked me to, will that give me the latest version ROM (4.2.1?). Another thing, once I root it, will I be able to have the Tablet automatically update and download 4.3, 4.4, etc. and so on? or will I have to manually download and install the new one every time it comes out?
I read in sammobile that samsung will launch Note 8.0, it is true?
What do you think?
rooting
deeselcyde said:
That's good to know. Thank you.
Thank you. I'll check that out. Now, the process that you linked me to, will that give me the latest version ROM (4.2.1?). Another thing, once I root it, will I be able to have the Tablet automatically update and download 4.3, 4.4, etc. and so on? or will I have to manually download and install the new one every time it comes out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have rooted several phones but not this tablet. Why? because for me the stock rom is good enough that I personally dont see an advantage to rooting it. Some like to root and install roms for the fun of it but I need the tablet to work and dont have time to futs around with getting to know a new rom.
I also have the impression,correct me if I'm wrong, that with custom roms you loose some of the multiscreen functionality and some of the pen functionality? If true that alone would keep me on stock.
optimus43 said:
I have rooted several phones but not this tablet. Why? because for me the stock rom is good enough that I personally dont see an advantage to rooting it. Some like to root and install roms for the fun of it but I need the tablet to work and dont have time to futs around with getting to know a new rom.
I also have the impression,correct me if I'm wrong, that with custom roms you loose some of the multiscreen functionality and some of the pen functionality? If true that alone would keep me on stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's more reasons to root other than just flashing custom ROMs. As a matter of fact, you really don't even have to root to install a custom ROM, you just need a custom recovery installed.
Personally I'm fine with the stock ROM on this tablet even though I run custom ROMs on my phones. I did have a custom ROM installed for a few weeks that was little more than the stock ROM with a few tweaks. It didn't lose any functionality with regards to multi-screen or pen. But some of the other more customized ROMs do lose functionality.
optimus43 said:
I have rooted several phones but not this tablet. Why? because for me the stock rom is good enough that I personally dont see an advantage to rooting it. Some like to root and install roms for the fun of it but I need the tablet to work and dont have time to futs around with getting to know a new rom.
I also have the impression,correct me if I'm wrong, that with custom roms you loose some of the multiscreen functionality and some of the pen functionality? If true that alone would keep me on stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing I care about is having the ability to install Google Apps that can only be installed on rooted ROMS. I've read that there are a lot of great apps for rooted ONLY tablets. Also, some of those 3D cube thingy's that have all the app icons on it are kind of cool. I don't know if you can install those on a stock ROM..??
deeselcyde said:
That's good to know. Thank you.
Thank you. I'll check that out. Now, the process that you linked me to, will that give me the latest version ROM (4.2.1?). Another thing, once I root it, will I be able to have the Tablet automatically update and download 4.3, 4.4, etc. and so on? or will I have to manually download and install the new one every time it comes out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no, it leaves the firmware as is and it simply gives you root access, i.e. administrative control over just about all processes that the tablet is capable of. It also allows you to flash custom ROMS. that method, along with the exynos exploit method ( not possible on 4.1.2), leave you as close to stock as possible . and leaves the official recovery. Someone will undoubtedly correct me if I am wrong, but so long as you don't flash a custom ROM, I believe you can still update through OTA. I know you can through KIES. If you do go with a custom ROM, I'm pretty sure you lose all the touch wiz goodies, like multi screen as another noted above. and likely would have to use ODIN or mobile ODIN to update.
deeselcyde said:
What are some of the main benefits to rooting then? I would think that if you have rooted a lot of phones you would for sure want your tablet rooted..?? Can you still perform mods to your tablet if it's NOT rooted? I saw someone with a cube on their homescreen with all their apps on it. It was 3D and pretty sweet looking. Will I be able to do stuff like that if I keep it stock.
Another thing, I read that you can't put apps on the expandable storage unless you root it...That is something I would like to do because I plan on putting games on it and such. Seems crappy you can't install some of the bigger apps on your 64 gig sd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Custom apps such as multi window manager. Custom roms if you wish. Overclock cpu with tegrak on stock rooted, it does sometimes come in handy to be safely overclocked. personally this tablet is so good off the shelf you dont NEED a custom rom but that overclock is good. Ability to access and change root files such as dolphin preference in order to make it work with flash player. More reliable backups of apps and data with titanium backup. There are a plethera of reasons for rooting a tablet. But do be cautious.
Don't forget you need root for AdAway. You also need root if you want to play around (very dangerous) with the build.prop file to try to install programs that the Play Store says aren't compatible.
deeselcyde said:
The only thing I care about is having the ability to install Google Apps that can only be installed on rooted ROMS. I've read that there are a lot of great apps for rooted ONLY tablets. Also, some of those 3D cube thingy's that have all the app icons on it are kind of cool. I don't know if you can install those on a stock ROM..??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 3d cube things I think your talking about are scroll effects, like cube, sphere or card stack. You dont need to be rooted for these, you can just download a launcher (nova, apex, adw) from the play store and change the effects in there.
Sent from my GT-N8010 using xda app-developers app
jaydubbbbs said:
just to give you one more thing to think about.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1957002
stock is nice btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One more question about that link. So once I follow the instructions provided in the link to root my Note 10.1, will I still have the custom ROM? And, will I be able to auto update from Samsung or whoever whenever a new version of the Android ROM comes out? I don't necessarily care about having someones custom ROM, I just want the benefits of using the GAPPS that I wouldn't be able to use if I wasn't rooted.
Thanks.

[Q] Upgrading ROM etc.

A friend saw my Samsung Note 3 performance & asked if I could do anything for her Razr M.
System - 98..7.XT905.Retail.en.au
Android version - 4.1.2
I haven't rooted a Moto before so I did some reading - seems very different to Samsung methods and also seems to have far more ways to do it and also, the thing which gives me pause, a wider variety of things to go wrong. Don't get me wrong, I am not afraid of risking my phone - I have bricked my S3 and my Note 3 quite a few times in searching for performance and function.
But this is someone else's phone and she gave it to me for a day!!!
So, given all she really wants is better performance, I'd appreciate any advice on what I should tackle.
Some Q's... (as in point me to threads - I can read and work things out but some pointers on where to look can save me having to read all the threads in all the forums for a phone I will probably never touch again)
1. How do I protect against bricking? i.e. what is the standard way to reflash a stock ROM if things go wrong?
2. Is there a Moto repository for stock ROMs? Sammy has sammobile.com where all new releases (and old) are available for DL - does Motorola have similar or is it just Google and hope?
3. What level do I need to go to just to give better performance? (e.g. on my Note I did a lot of debloating to improve things, but that came after root, kernel and custom recovery so I could remove system apps etc.) Do I need to unlock BL or just root and install a custom ROM?
4. At first glance there doesn't seem to be many custom variations of the stock ROM, mostly CM and AOSP types. I am not sure how different that would make her phone to use, so I am assuming I'd be better sticking with a stock-customised ROM - is that a correct assumption?
Thanks for any assistance...
Journyman16 said:
A friend saw my Samsung Note 3 performance & asked if I could do anything for her Razr M.
System - 98..7.XT905.Retail.en.au
Android version - 4.1.2
I haven't rooted a Moto before so I did some reading - seems very different to Samsung methods and also seems to have far more ways to do it and also, the thing which gives me pause, a wider variety of things to go wrong. Don't get me wrong, I am not afraid of risking my phone - I have bricked my S3 and my Note 3 quite a few times in searching for performance and function.
But this is someone else's phone and she gave it to me for a day!!!
So, given all she really wants is better performance, I'd appreciate any advice on what I should tackle.
Some Q's... (as in point me to threads - I can read and work things out but some pointers on where to look can save me having to read all the threads in all the forums for a phone I will probably never touch again)
1. How do I protect against bricking? i.e. what is the standard way to reflash a stock ROM if things go wrong?
2. Is there a Moto repository for stock ROMs? Sammy has sammobile.com where all new releases (and old) are available for DL - does Motorola have similar or is it just Google and hope?
3. What level do I need to go to just to give better performance? (e.g. on my Note I did a lot of debloating to improve things, but that came after root, kernel and custom recovery so I could remove system apps etc.) Do I need to unlock BL or just root and install a custom ROM?
4. At first glance there doesn't seem to be many custom variations of the stock ROM, mostly CM and AOSP types. I am not sure how different that would make her phone to use, so I am assuming I'd be better sticking with a stock-customised ROM - is that a correct assumption?
Thanks for any assistance...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stock ROM repository for XT905 -> http://sbf.droid-developers.org/phone.php?device=20
You should be able to use towelroot to root it.
Can't help much further since I have XT907
Edit: You could try freezing some unneeded bloatware (I know there's A LOT of that on the stock ROM for my phone) to free up some memory improve performance and conserve battery
rahimali said:
Stock ROM repository for XT905 -> http://sbf.droid-developers.org/phone.php?device=20
You should be able to use towelroot to root it.
Can't help much further since I have XT907
Edit: You could try freezing some unneeded bloatware (I know there's A LOT of that on the stock ROM for my phone) to free up some memory improve performance and conserve battery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the help. I'm learning... I gave her phone back with just a few tweaks and will get it back when I am confident I can unbrick anything that might go wrong.
In the Sammy world, freezing apps requires root - same in the Moto-world?
Journyman16 said:
Thanks for the help. I'm learning... I gave her phone back with just a few tweaks and will get it back when I am confident I can unbrick anything that might go wrong.
In the Sammy world, freezing apps requires root - same in the Moto-world?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root will be required for freezing system apps, not for users apps. Rooting should be fairly simple (hopefully). Install, supersu from the playstore, have data/wi-fi internet connectivity, install towelroot and use that to get root.
Don't let her update it the latest update breaks root. Hopefully she is on kitkat and that is why her phone is performing poorly. Root with towel root then run motoapkakypse.apk to unlock the boot loader. Now honestly there aren't any Roms I'd call a daily driver yet with the kitkat kernel so you'll have to downgrade to the jellybean kernel and install one of the top 3 or 4 Roms... I'm still on stock I found that location services and a few wake locks were the problems and fixed them with an app called app ops
Sent from my XT907 using XDA Free mobile app

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