@mods May I request that you pin this thread? Thanks
To the XDA Community and readers alike,
Welcome to the Xperia Z3 reference guide aimed at compiling all of the most useful and most effective methods and tips to guide you through using you Xperia Z3. In this guide, I will try my best to cover all of the topics needed to get you started with your Xperia Z3 endeavors both Advanced and Basics. If you feel you want to contribute, then please place what you feel should be added in the thread. I will ensure you’re properly credited for your contribution . This guide utilizes the same format in this guide by XDA Recognized Developer @DooMLoRD and has been modified to suit the Xperia Z3 community.
To start off, let me introduce myself. People refer to me as Furrydaus and I am a developer, contributor and a person whom people look for if they have queries for their Xperia SP who's 15 Years old. (Yep you heard that right!). (I do not have the Recognized Contributor Tag but I don't actually bother much. The community is far more important than those tags ) I help out projects and also create projects for the community. I mainly develop for the Xperia series and the Xperia SP is my third device that I owned under the Xperia Series. The Xperia Z3 is my fourth device that I own. I help with creating Firefox OS, CyanogenMod 11s, Z3Perience and other mini mods for the Xperia SP. So with that silly introduction of myself out of the way :silly:, let’s get started with the guide shall we?
The Contents Covered in this guide:
The Basics
• BootModes
• Information Concerning your device
Advanced Information
• FlashTool
• Root
• Bootloader Unlock
• Recovery
• Flashing Custom Kernels
• Flashing Custom ROMs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
>> The Basics
[Boot Modes]
Every new mobile device released under SONY has access to various boot modes that is able to handle different things. The 'Boot mode' is a form of interacting with higher level functions on your device such as the hardware
• Standard Boot Mode – This is the standard boot method used to start you device to its normal state. You are able to access the standard boot mode by pressing the power button on your device. (If you don't know this, then I have nothing else to say )
• Flash Mode – This is the mode used to flash official firmware to your device by using an .ftf file (Will cover more about .ftf's later). This mode is similar to what you use to flash firmwares in Samsung Devices through ODIN. To access Flash Mode, Press the volume down button while inserting the Micro USB Cable into your device
• Fastboot mode –This is the mdoe used to flash an official/custom kernel and system images. To access Fastboot, press the volume up button while inserting the Micro USB Cable into your device. This mode requires you to unlock your bootloader (Unlocking The bootloader is covered in the later parts of the guide)
>> The Basics
[Information that concerns your device]
Kernel:
A kernel is used as an interface to talk to your hardware and software. This can be reffered to as the MIDDLE MAN and plays a very important role in making your device function. It is VERY important to not flash the wrong kernel into your device.
Model numbers:
The Xperia Z3 is shipped worldwide in three different variants namely,
• D6653 (TD-LTE)
• D6603 (LTE-A)
• D6633 (Dual LTE-A)
The devices are equipped with everything from hardware to software but they differ in the network type each utilizes due to country specific radio
Android version: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Android_(operating_system)
The Android Version determines whether your device is running the latest features and implementation in design and functionality by Google. It is recommended to always upgrade your android version officially to get the most out of your device. The Xperia Z3 is shipped with Android 4.4.4 Kitkat
Baseband version:
The Baseband is the software interface that communicates your radio to the networks available. A missing baseband=no network. This isn’t the full description but gives you the basic understanding to its use.
Build number:
The Build number is used to identify the firmware version for your device. For example, the Xperia Z3 is shipped with official firmware that is denoted as 23.0.A.2.93. The Firmware version determines whether you device is Up-To-Date. The build.prop in your device can also be tweaked to change the Build Number but we recommend that you do not do so to ensure you device gets the latest updates officially. Official Build Numbers and Firmware Versions can be found here
Firmware:
The firmware is a package containing all the official software for a particular build. It contains system, kernel and baseband files. Firmware is supplied mainly via the forums in an FTF package (a container file ending with .ftf) which can be flashed via FlashTool. Official Build Numbers and Firmware Versions can be found here
Here's the largest and the only .ftf thread containing all of the .ftfs for most devices: http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/general/ftf-stock-firmwares-xperia-z3-models-t2886061
(I will be helping out the OP soon by providing 100's of ftf's for you guys )
What are the ways to update/repair firmware?
SEUS (Sony Ericsson Update Service) / PCC (PC Companion) / EMMA are all official ways to update to new or repair existing firmware on your device. SEUS/PCC are available to all users (consumers), EMMA is special and is only available to select individuals. This requires you to connect device to PC and then the software will check for updates and download them over the internet.
Updates can also be sent as FOTA (Firmware over-the-air)/OTA (over-the-air) updates where you can download and install the updates without the need to connect to PC/any software.
>> Advanced Information
FlashTool
Flashtool is an unofficial utility supplied by the community namely, AndroXyde. It is the most EASIEST way to flash official firmwares, kernels, custom kernels on both locked and unlocked bootloader devices to your needs. Firmwares that can be flashed via FlashTool is denoted with a .ftf at the end of the file. FlashTool can be used to flash both locked and unlocked bootloaders devices.
For Everything Flashtool,(download links, release notes, FAQ) Head right down to the Flashtool Homepage
Flashtool is also available on GitHub
~ [FLASHTOOL GUIDE] HOW TO for n00bies
Sony also provides an official FlashTool but it can be used only with unlocked bootloader devices.
>> Advanced Information
ROOT
The term root is defined as the way to indicate that your phone has access to higher privileges than standard mobile phones. It can be referred to as the Administrator Mode for Windows but on android instead. Obtaining root requires you to be extra careful as a certain tweak you do to your device might result in a faulty/non-working Z3 that you bought . But with root, you are able to do a world of things from changing the aesthetic look of your device to affecting the performance of your device by overclocking
To obtain root, we recommend you to read this;
CWM-Based Recovery 6.0.4.7 Recovery for Xperia Z3! [DooMLoRD]
>> Advanced Information
Bootloader Unlocking
SONY, Carriers and even other companies tend to lock their bootloaders as a way to force a user to stay with the current state of the device as a way to make sure that their hardwork isn't being replaced. SONY allows the bootloader to be unlocked but it comes with a hefty result for the Z3. Read on to find out why,
Before unlocking your bootloader, You might want to read this:
Extracted from Official SONY unlock bootlaoder site:
Code:
What is this?
By unlocking the boot loader, it’s possible to put custom ROMs on your Xperia™ device. However, we recommend standard users not to unlock the boot loader, as it is not needed. We are proud to deliver great software experiences through our rigorously tested and official software releases. If you are not familiar with the risks involved, you should not proceed further.
Voiding the warranty
If you unlock the boot loader, you may void the warranty of your device and/or any warranty from your operator. See your device’s warranty statement for details. Additionally, due to the modified device software, Sony’s repair network will likely have to replace key components before it can properly test, repair and verify your device using our repair tools and software. Consequently, if Sony performs a warranty repair, Sony will likely charge you a significant service fee for the additional costs caused by your modification of the software.
Risks
Please be aware that Sony cannot guarantee the full functionality, and will not be responsible, for any unsigned custom ROM being flashed to your device after the boot loader is unlocked. An unsigned custom ROM may not have gone through the thorough tests that we run for each device and software version that we release.
Also, a custom ROM might not work properly on your device, and certain functions and offerings may cease to work. The performance of the device might also be affected, and you may damage your device permanently. In worst case, unlocking the boot loader will cause physical injuries or material damage, for example, due to the device overheating.
Certain pre-loaded content on your device may also be inaccessible due to the removal of DRM security keys. For high-end devices running recent software versions, for instance Xperia Z3, the removal of DRM security keys may affect advanced camera functionality. For example, noise reduction algorithms might be removed, and performance when taking photos in low-light conditions might be affected. The secure user data partition may also become inaccessible, and you will not be able to get any more official software upgrades if you unlock the boot loader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are sure you want to unlock, the we recommend you read this;
Guide [for beginners] – How to Unlock Bootloader via Flashtool [sid.8491]
>> Advanced Information
Recovery Mode
To learn more about recovery mode, we recommend you read this guide from addictive tips:
Complete Guide to CWM Recovery [Addictive Tips]
To obtain recovery, follow this guide we recommended earlier to obtain root;
CWM-Based Recovery 6.0.4.7 Recovery for Xperia Z3! [DooMLoRD]
>> Advanced Information
Flashing a Custom Kernel
Custom Kernels are mainly specific to the ROM that is being used, stock or custom and you must use the specified kernel with the specified rom to ensure things go smoother for you.
To flash a custom kernel, you can,
1. Flash via Flashtool using FastBoot Mode >>LINK TO GUIDE BY ANDROIDIZER
2. Flash via Recovery in an update.zip file (or in the rom zip itself)
>> Advanced Information
Flashing a Custom ROM
Custom ROMs provide you with possibly enhanced, more or better features than a stock ROM and it depends on the user itself if they want to flash a custom ROM. Most custom ROMs developers provie a .zip which can be used to flash through recovery as means to install the ROM. Usually ROM developers will place the specified steps to flashing the ROM so follow that instead. But if they don’t, this what you generally do,
1. Download the ZIP file and Save it on ur PC (you can also save it to your mobile)
2. Connect your device to the computer and save the .ZIP file on the SDCARD of your device
3. Disconnect the device from the computer upon completion of file transferreboot into recovery
4. Boot into your Custom Recovery and navigate through the menus to find and clear the Dalvik Cache, Cache Partition and System (Factory Reset)
5. Navigate around the recovery menu again to find for the .zip file transferred earlier and flash the .Zip file
6. After flashing is over, reboot device and you will be able to boot on the custom ROM. If not, contact the developer via PM or the Thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
>> Changelog
The Changelog goes from the oldest to the newest changes (Bottom-> Top)
Code:
5 October 2014: Improved Thread, Added Changelog, Added new up-to-date information
5 October 2014: Release of the Guide
Any information you feel you want to add in?
Feel you should have been credited for something?
Then PM me or reply to the thread so I can handle the request! :good:
Updated the guide with many new pieces of information and also added a changelog to show what has been updated
[emoji1]
Nice guide you have there... Applies mostly to all xperia devices... =)
Hi
In deed i very nice work but for a newbee like my with a unlocked Z3... what do i need to have root in order to remove bloatware?
Regards
Mod, please sticky this!
Indeed a nice guide for newbees
bernardix said:
Hi
In deed i very nice work but for a newbee like my with a unlocked Z3... what do i need to have root in order to remove bloatware?
Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
System App Uninstaller from the Google play store
Sent from my C5303 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Looks like great guide, i am going to read it tomorrow when my phone arrives.
Nice guide for newbies. Nice work!
Related
HEY XDA I FOUNDED A FTP FILE - FIRMWARE FOR YOUR BELOVED XPERIA E
HERE IS THE DOWNLOAD LINK:dl-developer.sonymobile.com/code/copylefts/ffos_experimental.tar.bz2
INSTALATION
How to flash Firefox OS on Xperia™ E
Now that you have a basic understanding of Firefox OS, and if you’re ready to start tinkering with it on an Xperia™ device (for now, Xperia™ E), the next step is to flash Firefox OS on it. Before you flash this experimental ROM, please consider the following carefully:
Before you unlock the boot loader, make sure that you have read and understood that unlocking the boot loader may void the warranty of your device.
You must be using an unlocked Xperia™ E. It will not work on a locked Xperia™ E.
You should be an advanced developer with extensive knowledge in how to flash and switch between different ROMs. If you are a consumer without these developer skills, then we strongly recommend you not do try this as you may damage your phone.
Some of the features are not switched on or implemented:
No radio connectivity available, due to that this software has not passed certification and type approval. This means that you cannot make any phone calls or use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
The functionality of the SD card might be unstable.
The touch sensitivity is not fully calibrated.
This software can be flashed on an Xperia™ E that has similar hardware specifications as the initial scope of the first version of Firefox OS and is therefore a natural candidate.
Flash Firefox OS on your Xperia™ E by performing the following steps:
Unlock the boot loader using our unlock boot loader service. Note that the possibility to unlock a device can sometimes be restricted due to operator restrictions. Also note that once you’ve unlocked your phone, you will not get any official software updates from Sony.
Download and install the flash tool for Xperia.
Start the flash tool and connect your phone as described in the flash tool instructions. When you connect your unlocked Xperia™ E, the Firefox OS software will be available to flash. There is also a standard Sony software version that you can flash, if you want to go back to Android™ from the Firefox OS software.
If everything went well, your device is now ready to boot with Firefox OS. Turn on the power and after the initial boot sequence, you can start to explore Firefox OS.
IF THIS WORKS FOR YOUR XPERIA E PLEASE HIT THANKS
To install need emma
Siokrismarios said:
HEY XDA I FOUNDED A FTP FILE - FIRMWARE FOR YOUR BELOVED XPERIA E
HERE IS THE DOWNLOAD LINK:dl-developer.sonymobile.com/code/copylefts/ffos_experimental.tar.bz2
INSTALATION
How to flash Firefox OS on Xperia™ E
Now that you have a basic understanding of Firefox OS, and if you’re ready to start tinkering with it on an Xperia™ device (for now, Xperia™ E), the next step is to flash Firefox OS on it. Before you flash this experimental ROM, please consider the following carefully:
Before you unlock the boot loader, make sure that you have read and understood that unlocking the boot loader may void the warranty of your device.
You must be using an unlocked Xperia™ E. It will not work on a locked Xperia™ E.
You should be an advanced developer with extensive knowledge in how to flash and switch between different ROMs. If you are a consumer without these developer skills, then we strongly recommend you not do try this as you may damage your phone.
Some of the features are not switched on or implemented:
No radio connectivity available, due to that this software has not passed certification and type approval. This means that you cannot make any phone calls or use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
The functionality of the SD card might be unstable.
The touch sensitivity is not fully calibrated.
This software can be flashed on an Xperia™ E that has similar hardware specifications as the initial scope of the first version of Firefox OS and is therefore a natural candidate.
Flash Firefox OS on your Xperia™ E by performing the following steps:
Unlock the boot loader using our unlock boot loader service. Note that the possibility to unlock a device can sometimes be restricted due to operator restrictions. Also note that once you’ve unlocked your phone, you will not get any official software updates from Sony.
Download and install the flash tool for Xperia.
Start the flash tool and connect your phone as described in the flash tool instructions. When you connect your unlocked Xperia™ E, the Firefox OS software will be available to flash. There is also a standard Sony software version that you can flash, if you want to go back to Android™ from the Firefox OS software.
If everything went well, your device is now ready to boot with Firefox OS. Turn on the power and after the initial boot sequence, you can start to explore Firefox OS.
IF THIS WORKS FOR YOUR XPERIA E PLEASE HIT THANKS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TO FLASH IT NEEDS EMMA YOU CAN DOWNLOAD FROM HERE;dl-developer.sonymobile.com/tools/Flash_tool_for_Xperia_5.zip
COPY AND PASTE THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD
What do you mean by this? You are copying the whole thing from sony site... And this, is old...
typed and published under my permission
look
wasturaka said:
What do you mean by this? You are copying the whole thing from sony site... And this, is old...
typed and published under my permission
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
look i take the install from xperia e site but the firmware is my compilation ok?
What does your one do ?? Is there GSM on it ??
nope
johnt880 said:
what does your one do ?? Is there gsm on it ??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well i try 20 times to fix this but no luck
Flash tool for Xperia download link update
Siokrismarios said:
TO FLASH IT NEEDS EMMA YOU CAN DOWNLOAD FROM HERE;dl-developer.sonymobile.com/tools/Flash_tool_for_Xperia_5.zip
COPY AND PASTE THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the fresh URL: http://developer.sonymobile.com/services/flash-tool/how-to-download-and-install-the-flash-tool
Where's the link can't find it?
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
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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.
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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?
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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?
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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.
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Yes It is working. I root my device using towel root with .207 update
Hi.. Im new here with this device i read almost every single post here but there are quite a few things that I don't get it..
What is bootloader? Should i unlock it before rooting the device? And recovery here is in Chinese so shall i get TWRP instead? Also about the flashing Roms issue that erase imei and SN.. why would that happen? And How can i take a backup for these in case i lose them.. Some people mentioned SN writing tools but some people says its not working so im abit confused.. And has anyone noticed that the flashlight of the mobile is actually yellow that affects camera's captures? I would be really grateful if someone helps
1. What is a Bootloader?
Hboot, or we may call it Boot-loader, is like BIOS to windows. It is the first thing that runs when you boot up your Android device. It packages the instructions to boot operating system kernel and most of them are specifically designed to run their own debugging or modification environment.
Every Android phone has a boot-loader that instructs the operating system kernel to boot normally. But you need to understand one thing here that as Android OS is an open source OS and is available on a variety of different hardware, every manufacturer has their own version of bootloader specific for the hardware present in it’s environment.
2. Should you unlock it before rooting the device?
It solely depends on you whether you want to unlock it or not. Unlocking bootloader will give you access to installing custom recoveries on your phone and also you can use custom kernels to boost up phone's performance or simply get more battery juice. Since our K4 note doesn't have any custom kernels so good luck with that.
Warning: Unlocking Boot-loader voids phone's warranty
3. Why does IMEI/SN erases while flashing ROM's
People don't read the tutorial properly. They blame the OP instead when they do something wrong and loose their IMEI/SN.
What basically happens is, when flashing ROM's through SP flash tools, They should flash it in "DOWNLOAD" mode only and not in "Format ALL" mode. People who all lost their IMEI basically did this mistake.
4. How to Backup and Restore your IMEI/SN (NVRAM)
All the device specific details such as IMEI, SN, MAC addresses are stored in a partition called as NVRAM. So backing it up will indirectly be referring to backing up your IMEI/SN. Here is how you can do it.. LINK
5. How to install Recovery?
if you are on Marshmallow then you will be able to install recovery through this thread. LINK
6. Yellow Flashilight problem?
This bug is introduced in Android V6.0 that is marshmallow. Actually this is not truly a bug. Unlike on Lollipop which had only one LED light enabled during Camera operations, Lenovo decided to enable both of the LED's (That is white and yellow) to give the images a more true LIVELY appeal.
But terming this as bug here because nobody liked it and users were pissed off straightaway. Hopefully, Lenovo will fix it soon.
Hit Thanks if i helped..
Krishnas096 said:
1. What is a Bootloader?
Hboot, or we may call it Boot-loader, is like BIOS to windows. It is the first thing that runs when you boot up your Android device. It packages the instructions to boot operating system kernel and most of them are specifically designed to run their own debugging or modification environment.
Every Android phone has a boot-loader that instructs the operating system kernel to boot normally. But you need to understand one thing here that as Android OS is an open source OS and is available on a variety of different hardware, every manufacturer has their own version of bootloader specific for the hardware present in it’s environment.
2. Should you unlock it before rooting the device?
It solely depends on you whether you want to unlock it or not. Unlocking bootloader will give you access to installing custom recoveries on your phone and also you can use custom kernels to boost up phone's performance or simply get more battery juice. Since our K4 note doesn't have any custom kernels so good luck with that.
Warning: Unlocking Boot-loader voids phone's warranty
3. Why does IMEI/SN erases while flashing ROM's
People don't read the tutorial properly. They blame the OP instead when they do something wrong and loose their IMEI/SN.
What basically happens is, when flashing ROM's through SP flash tools, They should flash it in "DOWNLOAD" mode only and not in "Format ALL" mode. People who all lost their IMEI basically did this mistake.
4. How to Backup and Restore your IMEI/SN (NVRAM)
All the device specific details such as IMEI, SN, MAC addresses are stored in a partition called as NVRAM. So backing it up will indirectly be referring to backing up your IMEI/SN. Here is how you can do it.. LINK
5. How to install Recovery?
if you are on Marshmallow then you will be able to install recovery through this thread. LINK
6. Yellow Flashilight problem?
This bug is introduced in Android V6.0 that is marshmallow. Actually this is not truly a bug. Unlike on Lollipop which had only one LED light enabled during Camera operations, Lenovo decided to enable both of the LED's (That is white and yellow) to give the images a more true LIVELY appeal.
But terming this as bug here because nobody liked it and users were pissed off straightaway. Hopefully, Lenovo will fix it soon.
Hit Thanks if i helped..
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Click to collapse
Ahaaaaa Thanks Alot now it get it all.. Hope they fix that soon.. And i read that some devs here is willing to make a custom kernel i guess.. thanks again and sorry for wasting ur time.. Btw have u noticed that the sound on headset and Bluetooth is also abit lower than other devices?
Lenovo A7010 - CM13.0 Android 6.0 on lenovo-forums.ru
I just got an Xperia X Compact and haven't modified it yet. It has Build number 34.3.A.0.228 . I wanted to get a clean android system (ideally with root) and figured that flashing a ROM like OmniRom or ParanoidAndroid would be the best way to go. I was trying to figure out how to flash a ROM onto the X Compact. I saw this guide, but it appears to be about obtaining root on the stock ROM, including something about modifying the kernel... but it also tells me things about unlocking the bootloader, which many of these ROMs say they need.
What exactly do I need to do to get something like OmniRom or PA on my otherwise unmodified device? Do I just follow the instructions in that guide up to the point where I unlock the bootloader, then switch to the ROM instructions? Do I need TWRP? And what's all this about backing up and restoring DRM keys?
And all that said, what's the most reliable ROM out there for the Xperia X Compact? It seems to be PA, they have it on their official devices list, but I could be wrong.
The first thing you need to do is to backup your DRM key, because if you don't, it will be lost forever. For this you need to downgrade etc., so it will take some time, but if you follow the guide, you should be done in a couple hours. If you lose the key, you might be excluded from using services that utilize DRM, as well as enhanced algorithms by Sony (known is the camera app).
After you have your DRM backup, you can go back to business as usual with flashing ROMs etc. However note that for using the DRM key, you need a patched kernel. While the DRM key can be put back on the phone, it will now reside on a different location that the kernel needs to be aware of.
You can patch your own / ROM-provided kernel as to the guide but there is also pre-patched kernels floating around. You don't need to do this for testing ROMs as long as you don't need DRM functionality or use Sony's camera app (which provides better image quality with the key present!).
You will need TWRP sooner or later for the usual ROM flashing tasks, while flashing the patched kernel can be conveniently done with fastboot. However you do not have to install TWRP, instead you can boot it from PC via fastboot whenever you need it.
The most reliable ROM right now is stock rom, however you can heavily modify it and strip stuff using Magisk etc.
While the phone is officially supported by Paranoid Android, people reported crucial hardware features to be missing and random phone reboots. Have a look at the corresponding thread if these issues have been solved yet.
Thanks for the help! I looked it up and the random phone reboots in PA have been solved. But for the other things... now I'm trying to figure out how to downgrade to back up the DRM keys. What kinds of "services" other than the high quality camera need the keys? Like Google Apps? or more obscure things?
Also is the flashtool.net FlashTool necessary to get a ROM onto the device? I'm kind of sketched out about letting a closed-source program tweak my phone firmware tbh.
You can get an older firmware via XperiFirm. It is a nice tool actually. Make sure you download the version specified and not just any old version to make the TA extraction work.
There are several ways to flash .ftf (official firmware) files, but the only two that I am aware of are the official Sony tool and FlashTool. Btw. in FlashTool you need to repackage (bundle) the FTF for flashing.
Services that need the DRM key include Google's SafetyNet, AFAIK.
Hello can any one help. How can I purchase a z1compact from eBay with a unlockable boot loader. What am I looking for? eg. an international version, or one from a specific region. I have one already but the bootloader unlock allowed =no. It is rooted and I have twrp recovery but I want to upgrade or flash a android 7.0 custom rom .Any solutions for that. I don't want to end up with two phones with seem problem.
senortech said:
Hello can any one help. How can I purchase a z1compact from eBay with a unlockable boot loader. What am I looking for? eg. an international version, or one from a specific region. I have one already but the bootloader unlock allowed =no. It is rooted and I have twrp recovery but I want to upgrade or flash a android 7.0 custom rom .Any solutions for that. I don't want to end up with two phones with seem problem.
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Click to collapse
I can't answer your question directly. It's more an alternative solution which I think should work (at least you can try...).
If you've got a working TWRP you should be fine. Installing AICP/lineage/whatever shouldn't be a problem then, even with a locked BL.
Just boot to TWRP, wipe /data, /system and caches and install the firmware you'd like to have.
Only downside: If something breaks and you can't even enter TWRP you have to use the sony repair/flashtool and reinstall stock. Then repeat the rooting + TWRP installing stuff...
Make sure you've installed a recent (and working) TWRP version as for installing ROM's starting from oreo you need at least TWRP 3.2.x if I remember correctly.
BTW: Why do you want to install 7.0 / nougat? It's outdated and not updated anymore. I'd suggest using android 9
AICP 14
LineageOS 16
or android 8
LineageOS 15.1
or even android 5
LineageOS 12.1
These builds are updated at least monthly. And the first three of them also provide OTA update support which makes things very comfortable.
Thanks so much for your reply. Although I'll say it left me surprised. After researching the last couple of days ,even here on this site I was lead to believe that an unlocked bootloader was absolutely essential to flash a custom rom not based on stock firmware much less upgrade to a later version of android. However I am more than willing to take your word for it seeing that you are one of the modders for the Rom I would like to try "LoS 15 Oreo". I fully understand that the risk is totally mine. A further question, I currently run andriod 5.1.1 with dual custom recovery twrp and cwm, how do I update my current twrp version 2 . Something to the latest recommended. Do I flash the new zip with my current twrp recovery ?
senortech said:
Thanks so much for your reply. Although I'll say it left me surprised. After researching the last couple of days ,even here on this site I was lead to believe that an unlocked bootloader was absolutely essential to flash a custom rom not based on stock firmware much less upgrade to a later version of android. However I am more than willing to take your word for it seeing that you are one of the modders for the Rom I would like to try "LoS 15 Oreo". I fully understand that the risk is totally mine. A further question, I currently run andriod 5.1.1 with dual custom recovery twrp and cwm, how do I update my current twrp version 2 . Something to the latest recommended. Do I flash the new zip with my current twrp recovery ?
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Click to collapse
Well, at first I have to apologize for the "optimistic" answer. There's one "small" detail I forgot about. It's the boot.img signature which may cause problems. However I don't know if Sony was enforcing the verified boot / signature checking even with android L. This would mean the bootloader checks, if the boot.img was signed with Sony keys - if not: it'll enter a bootloop (or doesn't turn on at all). Unlocking the bootloader then allows you to also boot unsigned images.
But I didn't tried booting custom images with locked BL on my own
So I guess it's a try and error thing here... Most likely you'll end up unsuccessfully
However you can still give it a try. Can you post the output of
Code:
cat /proc/partitions
when you're in recovery? (TWRP has an inbuilt terminal, or you can use adb shell).
At first you need an independent recovery - which means it can boot up without needing the stock boot.img. That's your current configuration: original sony kernel boots up and you decide which ramdisk it should load by pressing vol+/-.
That's why it's actually no real recovery. If something in boot.img breaks you won't be able to reach recovery anymore.
So I think of following steps now:
Make sure you've installed the latest sony firmware
install the bootloader patch from @munjeni (he also states you need a unlockes BL, so it's not really promising Maybe he can jump in and give further clarification here?)
install TWRP (e.g. this) with dd like this (change your inputfile accordingly):
Code:
dd if=/sdcard/twrp.img of=/dev/block/platform/msm_sdcc.1/by-name/FOTAKernel
if you strike it lucky you'll be able to boot into the new real recovery with: poweroff device; hold VOL down and power until vibration; release power but keep holding VOL down until TWRP screen comes up (needs ~10 seconds or so)
To be honest: I lost my confidence a bit. Maybe buying a device with unlockable BL is the way to go. I suppose the devices sold with contracts by big carriers like Vodafone or Telekom (however they are called in your country) DON'T have unlockable BL's. So devices without a simlock may have a good chance to be unlockable. However - that's just a guess.
Well doing some research found an interesting Movistar forum stuff : if you unlock your phone ( free to use whatever SIM you want ) then its possible to change "bootloader allowed : no to yes" . At least thats what the spanish thread says ( https://comunidad.movistar.es/t5/So...not-allowed/m-p/2404928/highlight/true#M26138 )
1- After make your phone SIMfree it says to do a factory reset and check if allowed : yes
2- Also says that you need to send phone to sony tech fisic store
3- Or using Sony pc companion
I am not sure why it says that need to deliver the phone to sony store since online bootloader is kids game, but thats what the thread says
Finally, if you want to buy a new one, all unlocked phones ( no carrier ) will let you unlock bootloader ...... 99% sure :fingers-crossed:
ps : my english is horrible, I hope you understand it