Database Users

[WARNING] Sony confirm - Unlocking bootloader affect camera functionality

Bringing some bad news for those who already unlocked their bootloader.
But sony confirms bad image quality on z3 and z3 compact on unlocked bootloader due to DRM keys (some noise reduction algorithms and other may be lost.
More info on this site
http://www.xperiablog.net/2014/10/0...oader/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook
Official info here
http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
and thread in z3 compact subforum here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3-compact/general/loss-drm-keys-t2890936

Just a heads up, this has always been the case with previous Xperias.

I know. I just want to let the people know.
In my opinion, there is no such a ROM worth to broke camera functionality.

If people just want to root their Z3, do they still need to unlock the bootloader?
My Z1 is rooted and the bootloader is still locked.

ssj_jaypee said:
If people just want to root their Z3, do they still need to unlock the bootloader?
My Z1 is rooted and the bootloader is still locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only if an exploit is found.

ssj_jaypee said:
If people just want to root their Z3, do they still need to unlock the bootloader?
My Z1 is rooted and the bootloader is still locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For now, only root methos is with unlocked bootloader. We will need to wait for a while to have proper root with locked bootloader.

Well, The Z3 is not listed as one of the supported devices for unlocking, so no fault of Sony here....

gregbradley said:
Well, The Z3 is not listed as one of the supported devices for unlocking, so no fault of Sony here....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But some users confirm they unlocked their Z3 even there is no Z3 on list, as i remember.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/general/bootloader-unlock-t2888735
here

electrash said:
But some users confirm they unlocked their Z3 even there is no Z3 on list, as i remember.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/general/bootloader-unlock-t2888735
here
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes they have unlocked it, but if its not on the supported list and people then unlock anyway then what can you expect? Its not Sony's fault

gregbradley said:
Yes they have unlocked it, but if its not on the supported list and people then unlock anyway then what can you expect? Its not Sony's fault
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, sure. I didnt understand your point from first reply. Now i understand and i agree with you.

gregbradley said:
Well, The Z3 is not listed as one of the supported devices for unlocking, so no fault of Sony here....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
anyway Z3 is already supported as i check it yesterday
Sent from my D6653 using XDA Free mobile app

gregbradley said:
Yes they have unlocked it, but if its not on the supported list and people then unlock anyway then what can you expect? Its not Sony's fault
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what ? Z3 compact is in the list, but unlocking BL on Z3c broke functionality anyway. See the photos on xperiablog. So it doesn`t make any sense at all...
I`m so upset

BIONZ processing algorithm is replaced with a generic algorithm that reduces the quality. The issue was the same on the Z1 on pre-4.3 firmware.
Sony will fix this later, I hope.

chunlianghere said:
anyway Z3 is already supported as i check it yesterday
Sent from my D6653 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I stand corrected, the Z3 is now in the supported list. It must be a recent addition

gregbradley said:
I stand corrected, the Z3 is now in the supported list. It must be a recent addition
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but previously when z3 is not in the list, i try z3 compact, which still works. the code given is the same for both.

I don't own a Z3/Z3c but if it uses the TA partition to store the DRM keys, then Backup TA should be used before unlocking the BL.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598
However, the Backup TA team did not yet included Z3/Z3c in the list of supported devices (see the above thread).
You may want to ask there if the tool works for Z3/Z3c as well.
If it works, you will be able to restore the DRM keys after.
But, I'd rather wait for a root exploit that doesn't need you to unlock the BL...

That tool requires root so the Z3/Z3c isn't going to be supported until we get a root exploit. Everything depends on that right now.

arturiu said:
I don't own a Z3/Z3c but if it uses the TA partition to store the DRM keys, then Backup TA should be used before unlocking the BL.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598
However, the Backup TA team did not yet included Z3/Z3c in the list of supported devices (see the above thread).
You may want to ask there if the tool works for Z3/Z3c as well.
If it works, you will be able to restore the DRM keys after.
But, I'd rather wait for a root exploit that doesn't need you to unlock the BL...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's sure Backup TA would work properly, but the problem is that Backup TA needs root too.
That's why we need an exploit first.

Hello everyone, I was looking at this device as a new toy. However, unlocking the bootloader for me is a must with any device I buy. I have yet to own a Sony. Can anyone tell me how big of a difference is the camera once you unlock the bootloader? Is it a small difference or a major issue? Thanks in advance!

Travisdroidx2 said:
Hello everyone, I was looking at this device as a new toy. However, unlocking the bootloader for me is a must with any device I buy. I have yet to own a Sony. Can anyone tell me how big of a difference is the camera once you unlock the bootloader? Is it a small difference or a major issue? Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On xperia z3 is MAJOR. I would advise to wait for proper root method, and support from TA backup app to backup your DRM first, and then to test your self.
This way, if you dont like it, you can restore your DRM with TA backup.

Problem after ulocking bootloader?

If I unlock the bootloader do I lose some functions like on the Sony Xperia where you are not able to use the Sony App and the quality of photo is reduced like the video reproduction because a chipset is disabled?
TIA

As far as i know, you are not be able to install OTA updates anymore. i read many times, that this will cause a bootloop.

Erazor84 said:
As far as i know, you are not be able to install OTA updates anymore. i read many times, that this will cause a bootloop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Simply this is not true!!!
Harlock1978 said:
If I unlock the bootloader do I lose some functions like on the Sony Xperia where you are not able to use the Sony App and the quality of photo is reduced like the video reproduction because a chipset is disabled?
TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All functions are working well after bootloader is unlocked! And of course I receive OTA every time when flash and downgrade to 052

I confirm, OTA update works after unlocking bootloader!

QuadRooter vulnerability

I guess most of you have learned of the recently discovered vulnerability affecting over 900m Qualcomm devices. Apparently even after Google's latest July patches, the vulnerability persists, allowing root access to affected handsets. Pretty much the entire Xperia line using Qualcomm SOCs is affected.
My question is: will we see a rooting method based on this exploit? I know that unlocking the BL is the most straight forward way to root, however me and others I believe, would like to have a backup of their TA partition first. Ivyroot apparently works on older firmwares (not with .253), but as with BackupTA there's always some risk involved when restoring.
Perhaps a bounty is the proper way to go?

expecting security patch by Google!
meanwhile i have installed zonealarm...

Though if we could get a temp root on LB we could always refine the method for a permanent root on LB. Then, on the post from whichever genius makes the permanent root, have a damn neon flashing sign saying "OKAY, GO PATCH THIS NOW" via another kernel or a software fix as part of the "tutorial" post that would eventually be made.

pattmyn said:
Though if we could get a temp root on LB we could always refine the method for a permanent root on LB. Then, on the post from whichever genius makes the permanent root, have a damn neon flashing sign saying "OKAY, GO PATCH THIS NOW" via another kernel or a software fix as part of the "tutorial" post that would eventually be made.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
permanent root on LB cannot be done post 5.1.1 (android). it will be same as finding loop wholes in system and vulnerabilities of MM. atleast SONY don't support such methods where SONY RIC protects device to the level of putting it in to bootloops rather than allowing root access (when tried rooting on LB and DM-VARIETY+SONYRIC on).
the permanent solution ? either
1. switch to devices which allow PREROOTED O/S
2. UB and flash Kernal /ROMS as your own

YasuHamed said:
permanent root on LB cannot be done post 5.1.1 (android). it will be same as finding loop wholes in system and vulnerabilities of MM. atleast SONY don't support such methods where SONY RIC protects device to the level of putting it in to bootloops rather than allowing root access (when tried rooting on LB and DM-VARIETY+SONYRIC on).
the permanent solution ? either
1. switch to devices which allow PREROOTED O/S
2. UB and flash Kernal /ROMS as your own
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that's a depressing way to start my day lol. I love this damn phone but there's some rooted apps I miss dearly.

pattmyn said:
Well that's a depressing way to start my day lol. I love this damn phone but there's some rooted apps I miss dearly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i know what you mean! Xperias are my personal addiction!
i made deal with devil and lost drm keys and took security risks over my Z5 in exchange of rooted device.
in my opinion its matter of time, sooner or later you will also root your device!

YasuHamed said:
i know what you mean! Xperias are my personal addiction!
i made deal with devil and lost drm keys and took security risks over my Z5 in exchange of rooted device.
in my opinion its matter of time, sooner or later you will also root your device!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not with a locked bootloader that can't be unlocked, I ain't. Unless you know some magical people at Sony that could override that lol

pattmyn said:
Not with a locked bootloader that can't be unlocked, I ain't. Unless you know some magical people at Sony that could override that lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well one LONG workaround for you will be
via flashtool, (xperifirm) select z5p , select "INTERNAL" in the country list and download .170 version (android 5.0.2) the version at which it left sony factory.
flash it, Root it via kingroot (where kingroot is considered unsafe) , extract DRM KEYS
https://github.com/DevShaft/Backup-TA/releases
once u have those, upgrade to 6.0.1 and unlock the bootloader, flash it with custom kernal and relock the boot loader.
this way atleast you will have your ORIGINAL z5p KEYS with you for any future times

However relocking the BL with root will result in bootloop, since file system hash won't match the bootup check. However, with a TA partition backup, running an unlocked BL is much safer, for when you need to relock BL, and send the phone in for repairs etc.

YasuHamed said:
well one LONG workaround for you will be
via flashtool, (xperifirm) select z5p , select "INTERNAL" in the country list and download .170 version (android 5.0.2) the version at which it left sony factory.
flash it, Root it via kingroot (where kingroot is considered unsafe) , extract DRM KEYS
https://github.com/DevShaft/Backup-TA/releases
once u have those, upgrade to 6.0.1 and unlock the bootloader, flash it with custom kernal and relock the boot loader.
this way atleast you will have your ORIGINAL z5p KEYS with you for any future times
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not all bootloaders can be unlocked. Some specifically can't be because Sony made them that way because the carriers wanted it that way...
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Free mobile app

guhvanoh said:
Not all bootloaders can be unlocked. Some specifically can't be because Sony made them that way because the carriers wanted it that way...
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
agree, i believe z1 and z tablets in USA (versions) were falling in the catagory you mentioned.
if the bootloader cannot be locked then.... betty buy blackberry
---------- Post added at 11:30 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:29 AM ----------
guhvanoh said:
Not all bootloaders can be unlocked. Some specifically can't be because Sony made them that way because the carriers wanted it that way...
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
agree, i believe z1 and z tablets in USA (versions) were falling in the catagory you mentioned.
if the bootloader cannot be locked then.... betty buy blackberry

guhvanoh said:
Not all bootloaders can be unlocked. Some specifically can't be because Sony made them that way because the carriers wanted it that way...
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he said.

pattmyn said:
What he said.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
he is referring to some sony devices who's bootloader was denied unlocking.
but don't worry, most of the devices (outside USA) has bootunlocking ALLOWED

Per-purchase question .....
YasuHamed said:
he is referring to some Sony devices who's bootloader was denied unlocking.
but don't worry, most of the devices (outside USA) has boot unlocking ALLOWED
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My GF's M4 Aqua had the option to unlock the bootloader in the dev settings. It still couldn't have the BL unlocked (E2306), but the other 2 variations could, the E2303 and the E2353.
The E2306 was subsidized and discounted by Sony and mass distributed by lower end carriers here in Canada, hence the unlockable BL.
This model has the E6833 and the E6883, which one has the BL that can be/is unlocked?

UnableToResetOldProfile said:
My GF's M4 Aqua had the option to unlock the bootloader in the dev settings. It still couldn't have the BL unlocked (E2306), but the other 2 variations could, the E2303 and the E2353.
The E2306 was subsidized and discounted by Sony and mass distributed by lower end carriers here in Canada, hence the unlockable BL.
This model has the E6833 and the E6883, which one has the BL that can be/is unlocked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the OEM UNLOCKING allowed in Developer options is just an extra step.
my z5dual was giving one IMEI however with flashtool i was getting TWO IMEI numbers, both different and with the second imei i was able to unlock.
is yours M4aqua Dual

Unlock bootloader, it's safe?

Hey, did Unlock bootloader damage your phone?
In z3c would lose the quality of the camera and Bravia mode.
Is now possible to do a Roth without fear?

FIFAR4 said:
Hey, did Unlock bootloader damage your phone?
In z3c would lose the quality of the camera and Bravia mode.
Is now possible to do a Roth without fear?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Give this a read as it answers your questions. https://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/root-root-stock-firmware-modern-sony-t3558904

FIFAR4 said:
Hey, did Unlock bootloader damage your phone?
In z3c would lose the quality of the camera and Bravia mode.
Is now possible to do a Roth without fear?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you will face the same issue(s), contrary to the guide posted above I would encourage you to backup the TA partition, you can not use the tool in the described in the guide called iovyroot for X compact you will need to use the dirty cow exploit
EDIT: Btw. Flashtool can also do the dirty cow exploit and retrieve the backup.

and although the also guide goes on about nobody knows what widedevine is anyway bla bla.
I can tell you its used for; drm video like amazon prime, Netflix, hbo, etc. so if you plan on using most drm protected video services on your phone, its a thing to also take into consideration (if used any of them on a pc you probably already battled a bit with widevine heh). I am pretty sure the genesis kernel 'fixes' or emulate this without the real drm key from a backup, (I did not check before restoring my own) which would make it the only one on XC atm.

Root Achieved!

Update to newest fw, unlock bootloader, , flash this boot and this recovery
When that's done you can flash either su, magisk via TWRP to get root.

Let us know how it goes!

I didn't think Sony had updated their website to support this device for unlocking yet?

alexp999 said:
I didn't think Sony had updated their website to support this device for unlocking yet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With the Sony XZs you could just pick Sony XZ.

FartyParty said:
With the Sony XZs you could just pick Sony XZ.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They share the same chipset/platform though. The only difference is the camera.
The XZP is the first Sony with the SD835.

alexp999 said:
They share the same chipset/platform though. The only difference is the camera.
The XZP is the first Sony with the SD835.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Duh, I'm dumb!
I guess we have to wait then.

I just hope for a root method without unlocking the bootloader

xshunin said:
I just hope for a root method without unlocking the bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, that won't happen.

FartyParty said:
No, that won't happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't we just have to wait for an exploit?

I tried out my luck unlocking XZ Premium bootloader using older Sony XZ from the list, and I made it
xttp://i64.tinypic.com/2pshxu1.png
But I can't find suitable custom recovery to work with XZ Premium
twrp-3.1.1-0-kagura.img (TWRP for the old XZ) didn't work (using 'fastboot boot twrp-3.1.1-0-kagura.img' command without flashing it).

kemod said:
I tried out my luck unlocking XZ Premium bootloader using older Sony XZ from the list, and I made it
xttp://i64.tinypic.com/2pshxu1.png
But I can't find suitable custom recovery to work with XZ Premium
twrp-3.1.1-0-kagura.img (TWRP for the old XZ) didn't work (using 'fastboot boot twrp-3.1.1-0-kagura.img' command without flashing it).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You've unlocked your BL without backing up your TA? You know that you lost your DRM keys?
---------- Post added at 10:31 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:25 AM ----------
It looks like something good is coming soon:
https://kernel.andro.plus/yoshino.html
https://github.com/AndroPlus-org/android-kernel-sony-msm8998

schickel said:
You've unlocked your BL without backing up your TA? You know that you lost your DRM keys?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Err...I don't know if I really need it (or know much about it). I guess it has something to do with Sony proprietary app, music, etc?
If yes, I don't think I really care about it. I don't even have the intention to relock the bootloader...I guess.

kemod said:
I tried out my luck unlocking XZ Premium bootloader using older Sony XZ from the list, and I made it
xttp://i64.tinypic.com/2pshxu1.png
But I can't find suitable custom recovery to work with XZ Premium
twrp-3.1.1-0-kagura.img (TWRP for the old XZ) didn't work (using 'fastboot boot twrp-3.1.1-0-kagura.img' command without flashing it).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're awesome! Thanks for sharing this.
Have you tried twrp-3.0.2-4-kagura.img instead? That always worked for me.
kemod said:
Err...I don't know if I really need it (or know much about it). I guess it has something to do with Sony proprietary app, music, etc?
If yes, I don't think I really care about it. I don't even have the intention to relock the bootloader...I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here, I don't care about the keys at all since I don't have intentions to relock bootloader and I don't care about the warranty.
I have no desire to wait for them to update tabackup tool .

kemod said:
Err...I don't know if I really need it (or know much about it). I guess it has something to do with Sony proprietary app, music, etc?
If yes, I don't think I really care about it. I don't even have the intention to relock the bootloader...I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and @FartyParty
It's not only about proprietary apps. It's about advanced functions for both camera and music. There will be no noise canceling and other algorithms that make the backbone of decent looking pics and videos. That's why everyone is freaked about the TA backup. They're unique and cannot be used from another XZp. Relocking the BL won't do a thing since those keys are buh-bye forever. I for once bought this beauty for the looks, camera, and music (-ish), but I'll miss Xposed FW like crazy (hopefully we'll have xposed for N soon).
Best thing to do now is to wait for a custom kernel that restores those functions - it's just around the corner.
sorry for spamming the forum - got bored at work. still - DRM functionality is pretty important.

Sebi673 said:
and @FartyParty
It's not only about proprietary apps. It's about advanced functions for both camera and music. There will be no noise canceling and other algorithms that make the backbone of decent looking pics and videos. That's why everyone is freaked about the TA backup. They're unique and cannot be used from another XZp. Relocking the BL won't do a thing since those keys are buh-bye forever. I for once bought this beauty for the looks, camera, and music (-ish), but I'll miss Xposed FW like crazy (hopefully we'll have xposed for N soon).
Best thing to do now is to wait for a custom kernel that restores those functions - it's just around the corner.
sorry for spamming the forum - got bored at work. still - DRM functionality is pretty important.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am fully aware what losing the drm-keys does and I simply do not care about it, since you can simply apply the drm-fix and be on your way.
When I got my XZs I rooted it instantly, applied the drm-fix and continued as normal.
For me, root is always #1 and I'm more than happy to lose the drm-keys to get it.

FartyParty said:
I am fully aware what losing the drm-keys does and I simply do not care about it, since you can simply apply the drm-fix and be on your way.
When I got my XZs I rooted it instantly, applied the drm-fix and continued as normal.
For me, root is always #1 and I'm more than happy to lose the drm-keys to get it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree.. I now found out there is a DRM fix. I thought it would take some time. I'm one day away from my XZp

FartyParty said:
Have you tried twrp-3.0.2-4-kagura.img instead? That always worked for me..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried 3.0.2-0, 3.0.2-4, 3.1.0-0, 3.1.1-0 kaguras, still no luck via 'fastboot boot <recoveryfilename>'
How about you? Have you unlocked your bootloader yet? Have you found a custom recovery that works? I really really want to root this device.
FartyParty said:
I am fully aware what losing the drm-keys does and I simply do not care about it, since you can simply apply the drm-fix and be on your way.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I on the other hand didn't know that
It's been a while since my last Xperia and this is ridiculous, to lose essential features that makes it different to other phone just from unlocking the bootloader? Seriously?

kemod said:
Tried 3.0.2-0, 3.0.2-4, 3.1.0-0, 3.1.1-0 kaguras, still no luck via 'fastboot boot <recoveryfilename>'
Well I on the other hand didn't know that
It's been a while since my last Xperia and this is ridiculous, to lose essential features that makes it different to other phone just from unlocking the bootloader? Seriously?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He tagged me so had to reply.
It's not really ridiculous at all. It's a choice you make. Either you keep it locked and use it without root or you unlock it.
With the drm-fix you don't really lose the features.
And not yet but I will as soon as I get my second pink .

I'm screwed....just took a photo to look how bad the result would be after bootloader unlock and it's just the worst experience ever.
No photo could be taken, all shots just gave me literally full blank green picture (no picture at all!). Video works normally I think...
Oh my....what did I just do

kemod said:
I'm screwed....just took a photo to look how bad the result would be after bootloader unlock and it's just the worst experience ever.
No photo could be taken, all shots just gave me literally full blank green picture (no picture at all!). Video works normally I think...
Oh my....what did I just do
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to wait for a custom kernel that has drm-fix included and it will be fine again.
But your warranty is now gone.