Database Users

Using Note without rooting or custom ROMs

Would you see any problem with me using the international version of the Note without rooting or using custom ROMs? Are there any annoyances you're experiencing with the stock ROM? Will Samsung actually update this device for atleast a year? My U.S. Samsung devices never got updates, but that might've been mostly the carrier's fault

Unrooted note?
I haven't rooted my note yet, and I don't have any complaints. To be honest, I really don't see a reason to root it, at least not until a functional ICS ROM is available for it. As for the updates, the main update we're looking for is ICS which I'm hearing may not be available until April though.

Ive not rooted my international Note either.
Love it!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA App

I've rooted mine only... but to be honest I only did it out of habit.
I don't think I've actually used root for anything and will only use it to install ICS if CM9 hits before the samsung release.

I'm only rooted. Nothing more.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

I'm just rooted and CWM'd... Until either a semi-stable full featured CM7 port comes out, or even better, a CM9 port, I can tough it out waiting. One thing is for sure though.
I WILL GET TOUCHWIZ OFF THIS DEVICE ONE WAY OR ANOTHER.
It's slow, it's laggy, the home button takes a CRIMINALLY long time to return to my homescreen from just about every app... it's the worst.
Samsung Galaxy NoteNexus. That'll do =)

Same here , didn't root it yet and loving it but would definitely would root it to tell the difference in two....
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

I haven't rooted it yet. I see no point. I used to root for taking snapshot in previous Androids. With GS2, I rooted to install few custom fonts. The only reason if I will ever need to root Note would be to install AdFree but screen is so big I don't mind few space taken away by ad and morally if I am using free version, developer should earn something from ads.

I didn't find a reason to root it either,I usually do it to install the Armenian fonts but the GNote came already installed.
The unit I have is fast and no lags so no worries in that front either.

I have rooted neither. I would only consider when stop getting OS upgrade. I will wait for ICS till then have enough to enjoy.

Gazzz said:
It's slow, it's laggy, the home button takes a CRIMINALLY long time to return to my homescreen from just about every app... it's the worst.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, that lag sucks!
The lag is caused by voice control. Voice control is activated by pressing the home button twice, so when you hit it once the phone waits awhile to see if you're going to hit it again.

I rooted though I told myself not to...I'm just hooked to it!
Seriously, I like freezing the bloatware and deleting stuff that take up unncessary space and also cause my phone to slow down. With ICS, I believe one can just delete the apps without rooting, which will be great.
Based on my experience with the Galaxy S and S2, ROMs are just not worth the effort for me, except for the very lightweight ones that are deodexed and not much more.
I believe you can use the phone unrooted, unless you have itchy fingers like me.

I am Rooted, as you know second most reading thread 'How to Root' i hav wrote, n i cant stop myself unrooted. But really i can say some must things you can define 'need' are such
- To use Titanium Backup(really itz boring jobe to restore all application n setting withot it)
- If your place dont support Google Navigation
- Use set CPU (really battery sucks without this
- N atleast for me 'Root call blocker'
More thn this i dont think any must use for root.
Even myself have wrote thread how to, but i hav not pushed CF root till to my device

Incidentally if you use the superoneclick method of rooting there is an "unroot" feature built in as well.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk

I just singleclick rooted, so I could backup and freeze apps. None of the custom roms interest me yet.. Haven't installed cwr either.
Freezing voice control gets rid of the home button lag, good advice!!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

dr.ketan said:
I am Rooted, as you know second most reading thread 'How to Root' i hav wrote, n i cant stop myself unrooted. But really i can say some must things you can define 'need' are such
- To use Titanium Backup(really itz boring jobe to restore all application n setting withot it)
- If your place dont support Google Navigation
- Use set CPU (really battery sucks without this
- N atleast for me 'Root call blocker'
More thn this i dont think any must use for root.
Even myself have wrote thread how to, but i hav not pushed CF root till to my device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dr Ketan,
Can you please elaborate on the following points:
1. "If your place dont support Google Navigation"
How does rooting your phone help getting Google Navigation to work? Navigation does not work in my area, so would be good if you could share some tips.
2. "Use set CPU (really battery sucks without this)"
Are you under clocking the CPU in order to get better battery life? Can you give more details on this? Won't this make the phone more laggy?

Yumunum said:
Would you see any problem with me using the international version of the Note without rooting or using custom ROMs? Are there any annoyances you're experiencing with the stock ROM? Will Samsung actually update this device for atleast a year? My U.S. Samsung devices never got updates, but that might've been mostly the carrier's fault
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've rooted mine, but have not loaded a custom ROM. The main reason for rooting is for running ClockSync, Titanium Backup Pro and Theft Aware (now Avast).

Rooted.
So I can use Chainfire 3D for a night mode.

Raghav1980 said:
Dr Ketan,
Can you please elaborate on the following points:
1. "If your place dont support Google Navigation"
How does rooting your phone help getting Google Navigation to work? Navigation does not work in my area, so would be good if you could share some tips.
I understand there is a method by loading a modified Google Maps / Navigation APK that removes the unsupported location message. I had a brief look at the process and seemes a little complicated and I just use NDrive.
2. "Use set CPU (really battery sucks without this)"
Are you under clocking the CPU in order to get better battery life? Can you give more details on this? Won't this make the phone more laggy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. I was very skeptical at first about this, but I have run SetCPU on my Galaxy SII to test and performance was great and it seemed that battery life was also no problem. I installed SetCPU on my Note soon after I rooted it and have felt no performance decrease. SetCPU has a "ondemand" setting, this will change the speed of the CPU according to the needs of the apps running. Much like the SpeedStep technology found in laptops.
SetCPU has a nice info display and it shows the "Time in State" from this you can see what time your CPU is spending at each MHz increment. It stands to reason if 80% of the time the CPU is running at 200 MHz it's using less than running at 1400 MHz.
I've included a screen cap of the Time in State display from my note.
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Raghav1980 said:
Dr Ketan,
Can you please elaborate on the following points:
1. "If your place dont support Google Navigation"
How does rooting your phone help getting Google Navigation to work? Navigation does not work in my area, so would be good if you could share some tips.
2. "Use set CPU (really battery sucks without this)"
Are you under clocking the CPU in order to get better battery life? Can you give more details on this? Won't this make the phone more laggy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes sure i will guide, how you can activate google navigation in india
First Download this
Now you have req Root, and Root explorer app, b'coz you have to remove maps.apk app from Sys/apk directory, and replaced with above said application.
Anyway there is still one method, which doesn't require root, but you wil get double icon each fr lattitude, map, navigation etc(with minor difference)
if you need navigation in india then you can use that modified version of map. I mean new modified version which allow you to use navigation will install along with original map.
for this download this, and simply install like other application.
Now regarding Set CPU, i think somone hav already answered n explined nicely.
After installing SEtCPU, you will get control over CPU speed(directly affect battery performance)
e.g. If you add profile when screen is off, CPU set to 500 mH. then definetely your battery drain diminished < 1%/hr in idle state(screen off) compare to > 2 % with 3G n Data on idle state
There won't be lag issue b'coz you are under clocking in off screen state only.

Luv my note BUT things I hate (compared to iphone)

Luv the screen pen etc.
But samsung upgrade policy is archaic to say the least. I'm still waiting nearly a month since the german version has been released. At least give us the dates ...and what excuse could there be mines unlocked.and I dont really want to root it and lose the warranty.how come apple can update millions more in a single day ..come on samsung
Kies software is a joke up to five hours to back up and then it doesn't restore ( on the web thousands of people have the same problem.
Why can't I back up my phole phone inc memry card easily and fast.
Still not found a soft app for a keybourd as good as the iphone re spell check etc.
Just my thoughts I would luv another brand with the pen etc.
It seems samsung looks after new customers only.
Just my thoughts
I have no loyaty to samsung
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA

magichoward said:
Luv the screen pen etc.
But samsung upgrade policy is archaic to say the least. I'm still waiting nearly a month since the german version has been released. At least give us the dates ...and what excuse could there be mines unlocked.and I dont really want to root it and lose the warranty.how come apple can update millions more in a single day ..come on samsung
Kies software is a joke up to five hours to back up and then it doesn't restore ( on the web thousands of people have the same problem.
Why can't I back up my phole phone inc memry card easily and fast.
Still not found a soft app for a keybourd as good as the iphone re spell check etc.
Just my thoughts I would luv another brand with the pen etc.
It seems samsung looks after new customers only.
Just my thoughts
I have no loyaty to samsung
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you shoulda stuck with the iphone, I don't see what benefits you would have coming over to android if you're not prepared to root and try ROMs, yes samsung is a joke, but I can honestly say I have never regretted leaving iOS for android once.........except when the phone hangs during A PHONE CALL!!!! you know the thing it was actually made for - making and receiving phone calls, Not a regular occurrence I must admit but quite an ironic defect of many new ROMs I've tried in the past, LOL

magichoward said:
Luv the screen pen etc.
But samsung upgrade policy is archaic to say the least. I'm still waiting nearly a month since the german version has been released. At least give us the dates ...and what excuse could there be mines unlocked.and I dont really want to root it and lose the warranty.how come apple can update millions more in a single day ..come on samsung
Kies software is a joke up to five hours to back up and then it doesn't restore ( on the web thousands of people have the same problem.
Why can't I back up my phole phone inc memry card easily and fast.
Still not found a soft app for a keybourd as good as the iphone re spell check etc.
Just my thoughts I would luv another brand with the pen etc.
It seems samsung looks after new customers only.
Just my thoughts
I have no loyaty to samsung
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Plug your phone into a computer like you are used to and get your update.
Apple can update in a day because there are very few models.
Boot into recovery to back up to phone.
Thread closing in
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Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

You don't need to be rooted to use PC Odin to install the latest official ROM.
There are great keyboards out there...instead of just one on the iPhone. Look at Thumb Keyboard or Swiftkey. There is even an iPhone keyboard...gasp.
And since you don't want to root (you can unroot for warranty purposes and Samsung is none the wiser....) checkout MyBackup Pro in the market.

Samsung - a joke as a company?!?! Do us a favor and never, ever buy a Motorola phone. If you are going ballistic over a Galaxy, you'll kill yourself with a Droid...

you can just copy all the files from your sd to your computer very very very easily using a usb cable, have you never used a computer before? Or alternatively download dropbox and use that to back up your phone. Little bit of research about how android works might actually benefit you. About the updates, if you wanna get all the amazing features of android compared to iphone, you'll have to put up with the update schedules, but updates don't really matter on android you still have more functions that ios.

Wow ... cool it guys. OP is simply used to the apple way of doing things. Give him some time to explore the wonderful world of Android iam sure he'll start to love it.
OP please google a bit or check the play store you will find the solutions for all your complaints.
Edit
I just checked your other posts, almost all of it is about Samsung not updating the note to ics.
Why do you want the stock ics so badly ?
Do you honestly believe that ics will solve all your problems magically?
Believe me stock ics is a can of worms that is better left unopened . (personal opinion pls don't flame me guys )
but If you are so desperate please flash any custom roms which suits your needs, I recommend paranoid

Just to add, since i got my note i have had to firmware updates. One to 2.3.6 and then the 4.0.3 update. This is since April. Now you tell me of any iphone that has had 2 updates in that timeframe. (including major updates like ics )....
And apple can update easier as in total there are only 5 phone's ,of which only a couple of model get the update. Think his many different droids there are!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk

magichoward said:
a keybourd as good as the iphone re spell check etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please tell me you're having a laugh.... Have you never been on http://www.damnyouautocorrect.com/ ?

i wanted new set of icons....with flashy colours...i just installed a ROM....and my friend has an iphone and he wanted to change the icons too....o]h wait...you can only change WALLPAPERS in that... thats AWESOME

ACTUALLY I have the Note and I have never rooted. I don't find it necessary. I have an application called Folder Sync, and what it does is it backs up my files every night (especially camera files, but you can set it up to your entire SD card) to Dropbox or SugarSync, it has a lot of options for providers. The benefit is that you don't manually need to connect to a computer or anything. You will always have your files synced up. I even have it so when I delete a file off of the server or my computer, it'll be reflected as well on the phone. I hated having to have to connect my phone to my computer every time I wanted to update a folder, sync something, or download something. Every night my phone waits until 4AM, plugged in and has wifi on to sync my 32 gig SD card with its content.
As for the keyboard, it might take you some time to, you know, actually get used to a normal keyboard. Apple had good autocorrect. But I'd rather take the more accurate typing space on the Note over the iPhone's smart predictive text. Apart from that, I have AutoText Replacements which means I can type ty and thank you will come out. I have "putmail" and my mailing address comes out. This is really helpful, and it can't be done on the iPhone, but yes on Android. Try Ultra Keyboard, that's what I use. Tons of themes, settings and it's fairly intuitive.
There are a lot of benefits to Android. If you're just angry about ICS not out yet in your region, I'm sorry, but many times it doesn't only depend on Samsung. It depends also on the carriers, which most bend over backwards for Apple only because they're what's hot and hip right now.
I'd say that if you're easily frustrated, stick to iOS. If you like to tinker a little, stay with Android. The possibilities are endless with apps and configurations.
Once again, I don't root because I think Android is open enough the way it is. You can download an original rom and install it without voiding your warranty, using PC Odin.
Foldersync link
Ultra Keyboard link

This is as close as Im getting to a rotten Apple
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"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
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Sent from my GT-N7000 using xda premium

zkyevolved said:
Every night my phone waits until 4AM, plugged in and has wifi on to sync my 32 gig SD card with its content.
Once again, I don't root because I think Android is open enough the way it is. You can download an original rom and install it without voiding your warranty, using PC Odin.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This won't give you full peace of mind compare to Rooted.
Agree, If you are noob then should avoid from custom things and playing of different mods.
There is nothing wrong to have rooted Note with rest of completely stock.
Here are some must reason to root (for me)
- Backup you are creating is just additional data, you can get it again once you have application installed on device. And this data is having rare chance to get delete. even you format(hard reset) this data still survives. Only thing which is better to have is backup of Camera (DCMI folder) which you can't get(here folder sync really need). But i do save it on ext memory card, so in case of anything goe wrong still it will escape.
Now if you are rooted, then you can schedule your backup tottaly different way. Like my system stuff backup will start three days of weeks at 4AM, which backup my contacts, SMSs or watever sytem data.
And rest of three days it backup all newer installed application + data (here you will get app + setting, after restoring even you don't need to enter credential, OR won't lose levels you have completed in games)
- What I need is google Maps, In my country still google don't providing me navigation (just direction), but with moded Map I can get it. And yes root is needed for that.
-Remove lots of bloatware from stock system
-Stoping unnecessary auto starting application on boot.
Reagarding warranty, anytime you can just flash stock ROM with PC Odin and your root will erase and you get warranty back

Is it worth rooting the Nexus 4?

I don't understand what's so good about it? I know there's custom roms but how MUCH better is it REALLY? I'm debating if I should root my phone but I don't want to break it :[

*shrug*
I know some people will say that the Nexus 4 is for developers and you should experiment with custom ROMs/Kernels because that's what it's meant for..
But for me, the stock Android experience is completely fine with me, I actually prefer it. I find no reason to root my phone, although it will not "hurt" your phone per se. Just read and get familiar with ADB you'll be fine.
Oh and FYI I've rooted every other device I've owned, ran CM & other ROMs and I think they're cool and all but for me, nothing compares to stock 4.2.2
Just my two cents.

stock is definitely good.
I just like the options and other features you get in other roms. Like the ability to change the colour of navbar/statusbar.

dreseansr said:
I don't understand what's so good about it? I know there's custom roms but how MUCH better is it REALLY? I'm debating if I should root my phone but I don't want to break it :[
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have to ask this question then no, you probably haven't got sufficient reason to root. I would have been perfectly happy on stock but I'm far more happy with PA, it gives so much more freedom. I've made the nav bar shorter, the quick toggles the notification tray better, set certain apps to open in expanded desktop mode by default and installed an adblock. For me, that's enough reason to root and ROM the phone. Using my friend's stock N4 feels weird in comparison (especially true about the nav bar).

dreseansr said:
I don't understand what's so good about it? I know there's custom roms but how MUCH better is it REALLY? I'm debating if I should root my phone but I don't want to break it :[
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I flashed my galaxy s near a thousand times in 2 years and around 50 times with my nexus 4 with no brick/breaking it.
The feature I love the most about root is using AdAway https://code.google.com/p/ad-away/ so I have no ads on my apps therefore no battery drain (http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/story/2012/03/20/technology-free-apps-ads-battery.html) or annoying ads.
And you can root your phone without flashing a new rom but new rom gets you better performances and cool improvements like thoses (for more information about the changes you can find most answers on google :
►Built with Linaro Gcc 4.8.1 ( O3, -fstrict-aliasing, etc.)
►Sources patched for better performance
►Fully deodexed, Rooted, Busybox included
►0,90,180,270 degree rotation option
►CM Tiles fully customizables!
►Navbar extra settings
►Dual Pane settings
►DSP Manager
►Navbar height settings
►Pie control Settings (Color & Extra button & Trigger Options included)
►CM Lockscreen security Settings
►Extended power menu with settings
►Theme Chooser
►Clear all button on recent apps
►Option to control cursor in text fields using volume keys
►Allow volumes to be unlinked
►Volume rocker wake & Volume music control
►Fixed dream settings
►Quick message and reply & Emoji and Strip unicode support
►Allow user-installed apps to be disabled and force stop when disabling an app
►Templates functionality
►Split SMS functionality
►Dialer - T9 & Dialpad settings
►Low audio fix
►Increased lock screen widget limit to 9
►Advanced Browser Settings
►Clock style Settings
►Status bar brightness control
►Navigation Bar Settings
►Expanded Desktop Mode
►Cm Calculator App
►Extra browser settings
►Statusbar Settings
►Lockscreen shortcut Settings
►Silent Mode & Quite Hours
►Kill app back button
►Custom lockscreen background
►Purity Wallpapers app
►Hide ime switcher feature
►Bind VolUp+VolDown to toggle the ringer
►Advanced Phone Settings (ex.Vibrate on Answer...)
►LED control settings
►Navigation bar Quick launch shortcuts
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I like to customize too but I really don't want to break my phone, not that I'm not good with technology and stuff but taking the risk is what's stopping me, I don't wanna break it by a mistake.

dreseansr said:
I like to customize too but I really don't want to break my phone, not that I'm not good with technology and stuff but taking the risk is what's stopping me, I don't wanna break it by a mistake.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its actually pretty difficult to brick a nexus device, and the unlocking/flashing recovery procedure is extremely easy.
Theres very little risk. If you can read instructions you will be fine.

Stock is great but this phone, like any Android phone IMO needs root for full potential.
-Sent from Marino's Maxx-

stock is great and tons of people will be more than fulfilled and happy with just stock, but rooting gives you full control like all the root apps, ROMs, Kernels, Nandroid backup, and at anytime you can easily switch back to stock. Very easy to root a Nexus device too

I was very happy with stock. But the temptation and the curiosity ended up forcing me to root. As long as you do your homework by reading forums and also using youtube as a guidance, your good.

anyone can recommend any vids to root android 4.2 or any informational things i can read to start it then?

dreseansr said:
anyone can recommend any vids to root android 4.2 or any informational things i can read to start it then?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2018179
Read this a couple times, understand what each step does, and finally do it. Its really quite easy.

dreseansr said:
anyone can recommend any vids to root android 4.2 or any informational things i can read to start it then?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's another good guide
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2266654
Nexus 4 Guide-Unlock Bootloader, Root, Install Custom Recoveries & Custom ROMs/Kernel
Sent from my Nexus 4

spaceman860 said:
Here's another good guide
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2266654
Nexus 4 Guide-Unlock Bootloader, Root, Install Custom Recoveries & Custom ROMs/Kernel
method it wont work?
Sent from my Nexus 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These are both from 2012, how do I know it will work on 4.2? Isn't rooting like Jailbreaking.. If it's not the same update as the jail breaking method it wont work?
chromium96 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2018179
Read this a couple times, understand what each step does, and finally do it. Its really quite easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These are both from 2012, how do I know it will work on 4.2? Isn't rooting like Jailbreaking.. If it's not the same update as the jail breaking method it wont work?

dreseansr said:
These are both from 2012, how do I know it will work on 4.2? Isn't rooting like Jailbreaking.. If it's not the same update as the jail breaking method it wont work?
These are both from 2012, how do I know it will work on 4.2? Isn't rooting like Jailbreaking.. If it's not the same update as the jail breaking method it wont work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those guides work fine with 4.2.2. Trust me...i just rooted a week ago on 4.2.2 and everything went fine.
And this one is from May 6th, 2013

The steps are the same for any nexus device and any os version. You should also read this guide so you can learn about android
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2010338
[REF] "Android for the Nexus 4" 101 & FAQs
Sent from my Nexus 4

spaceman860 said:
The steps are the same for any nexus device and any os version. You should also read this guide so you can learn about android
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2010338
[REF] "Android for the Nexus 4" 101 & FAQs
Sent from my Nexus 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my two cents... you wont break it from rooting it. you have a much better chance of dropping it and that will or at least could.
my nexus, my love was in my hand and I tripped real good on a stump in a parking lot at night, I know what is a stump doing there? and it went flying face first onto the concrete and not a scratch. however there was a very tiny chip on the edge of the glass but you cant see it unless you look right at it for a second.
anyway these devices are great. I want a 16 cored nexus next Im waiting to root that and OC it.

Pa Color Splasher makes your phone look really cool , like on Google now the Nav & status bar turn the black to white to match the app
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"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
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"lightbox_share": "Share",
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Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2

dreseansr said:
I don't understand what's so good about it? I know there's custom roms but how MUCH better is it REALLY? I'm debating if I should root my phone but I don't want to break it :[
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes man! it worths it a lot! you mustnt have fear! our nexus can restore easily.
if you dont feel you to do it now , look for tutorials on youtube about it , for example wugfresh it's highly recommended.
just be careful at the moment you flash a kernel or something different it must be from Nexus 4 ALWAYS .
dont mistake with galaxy nexus, nexus s etc.

dreseansr said:
These are both from 2012, how do I know it will work on 4.2? Isn't rooting like Jailbreaking.. If it's not the same update as the jail breaking method it wont work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jailbreaking uses exploits to install unofficial system software on an ios device, which Apple patches with each update. We aren't exploiting anything here, so the process doesn't change across os version or device.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium

Help me to FINALLY start using my Z3C after 10 weeks of fear!

I bought my Z3C 10 weeks ago and still haven't used it other than turning it on for a few minutes etc. I charged it for the first time yesterday and am now ready to start! I had been waiting in the hope that CM11/12 would come to it, but I think it's time to forget about that happening and just start using it.
I'm pretty ignorant of all tech things so would really appreciate any help in being able to achieve the following with it:
Rooted
Free of bloatware
updateable OTA
simple android launcher
all the while without losing quality of camera etc..
I've been suggested just using google now launcher and disabling apps and I've been suggested XPOSED and I've been suggested AOSP and I'm a little confused as to what to go for. I see FXP just posted this: http://fxpblog.co/releases/aosp-lollipop-release-from-fxp-just-in-time-for-christmas/
But I'm not even too sure if that meets my criteria?
It's a phone used 99% for business and once I set it up once, I want that to be it and don't want to be reinstalling ROMS etc. I'd like whatever I do now, to last me until I get rid of the phone in maybe 2 years time as I can't have any downtime (which is why I've chosen the Christmas holidays to migrate from my current phone to the Z3C too )
If anyone could please please advise I'd really appreciate it and you'd be greatly helping me!

Why root it at all?
There's hardly any bloat, and what there is van be disabled.
Adblock plus works for both 3g and wifi almost as well as a adaway.
Install Nova launcher and you are done.

cormie said:
I bought my Z3C 10 weeks ago and still haven't used it other than turning it on for a few minutes etc. I charged it for the first time yesterday and am now ready to start! I had been waiting in the hope that CM11/12 would come to it, but I think it's time to forget about that happening and just start using it.
I'm pretty ignorant of all tech things so would really appreciate any help in being able to achieve the following with it:
Rooted
Free of bloatware
updateable OTA
simple android launcher
all the while without losing quality of camera etc..
I've been suggested just using google now launcher and disabling apps and I've been suggested XPOSED and I've been suggested AOSP and I'm a little confused as to what to go for. I see FXP just posted this: http://fxpblog.co/releases/aosp-lollipop-release-from-fxp-just-in-time-for-christmas/
But I'm not even too sure if that meets my criteria?
It's a phone used 99% for business and once I set it up once, I want that to be it and don't want to be reinstalling ROMS etc. I'd like whatever I do now, to last me until I get rid of the phone in maybe 2 years time as I can't have any downtime (which is why I've chosen the Christmas holidays to migrate from my current phone to the Z3C too )
If anyone could please please advise I'd really appreciate it and you'd be greatly helping me!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its impossible to root without losing camera quality. Why would you even want to? Its a stable clean rom they have on there and the extra's baked in are only useful. Just delete all the crap apps, possible with my T-Mobile version (Netherlands) and just keep some of the sony stuff. The walkman app is my default music player since it supports folder playing.
Seriously just use the phone its a quality product.

Thanks a lot for the replies folks, really appreciate it, especially Christmas morning
The reason I wanted to root, is just to have it open for anything that might need root access in the coming 2 years or so of use. I think there's a few apps I have on my Motorolla RAZR-I XT890 (phone I've been using for the last 1.5/2 years) which need root access:
AdAway (if adblock plus does the same job then that should be fine, but I listen to music a lot on youtube and don't want ads there if possible)
Auto Ring (I THINK this needs root access, it's an app that lets you white list certain numbers/contacts so that if your phone is on silent, it still rings - pretty important for me)
InCall Recorder (again I THINK it needs root, it can record calls internally, not using the microphone like most of these apps do - actually, it's never worked properly on my Razr-I, but I'd like to have it there)
Root Explorer (think it needs root, I use this to disable apps, replace default launcher etc, maybe it's not necessary anymore?)
I'm happy to replace all the above but I also use:
CERBERUS - This needs Root access to be hidden from the app drawer, I'm not sure if it needs it for other functions too, but this is very important.
I've a very specific list of apps I use for my phone, k9 mail, dialer one, jorte calendar and widgetsoid, I'm sure these will all still work fine and if the camera will instantly lose quality and ability on a root, I'd prefer to avoid it if possible?
One important thing to note by the way... Before I've had to hire an android expert to set my phone up for me to root it, install a rom etc. I don't like to mess around with things I'm not familiar with and prefer to pay someone who is guaranteed to do it right, rather than researching for hours how to do it, so I'd be looking for the same this time if I'm going down the root route, but if that's not necessary, that could be even easier!

Cerberus doesn't need root to be hidden!
Sent from my iPhone 5S

Oh really? So maybe I'd actually get away without rooting so? What are the main reasons to root so?

cormie said:
Oh really? So maybe I'd actually get away without rooting so? What are the main reasons to root so?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, despite feeling like I needed to root my previous N4, I haven't found the need to root this phone. In terms of what I want, there's really nothing pressing that outweighs the loss of camera functionality, etc. In fact, there were a bunch of things that I expected would need root that actually didn't.
The back button on PieControl works with accessibility and doesn't actually need root any more, which was my major worry. My airplane mode and GPS Power Toggles don't work, but those are easily accessible in the editable Quick Settings dropdown. Cerberus is hidden from the app drawer, though it isn't installed as a system app. My Tasker stuff that deals with music toggle pause/next/back works if I use the shell command to input keyevents (despite all documentation saying that should only work with a rooted phone). The computer app lets you do backups and restores, so you don't need nandroid backups, and Titanium Backup is not as big a deal for me, despite its utility for rolling back app upgrades. There is some stuff Secure Settings can't do, like turn the pattern lock on or off, but that's probably the only one I care about, and once L rolls in a month or so, I think that should be taken care of.

Thanks a lot for the comprehensive reply. If there was one place I thought I'd be getting people telling me I should root and do this and that to the phone, XDA would be it, given the responses so far, I guess I'm better off just leaving well alone then? It's good that cerberus is hidden from the app drawer, but you just reminded me of the more important root required install to system app ability. I guess as long as my phone doesn't fall into the hands of a professional phone thief who can clear cerberus with ease, I might be ok though?
Everything else I'll hopefully get by with too, but I'd really prefer youtube without ads!
So given that I might just leave well alone and start using it... How can I just start fresh now? Maybe a factory reset (even though I haven't used the phone)... but what should be the first things I should install to allow me disable/remove all the bloatware and replace the home launcher etc? If anyone could give even a mini step by step it would be amazing!

There's hardly any bloatware. I suggest you use the phone as it is. Just install all the updates from update center and go on using. I'm sure you'll find the Sony launcher better than most other launchers. It grows on you
Sent from my Compact Beast The Third.

You really don't need to root this phone, the softwares are well written as not buggy, most apps these days world's well without much tweaking.
This is my first phony airport any urges to root.

Thanks again everyone!
I'm not sure I mentioned, or if it emulates from my posts, but I'm quite particular about the way I have it set up hence wanting to remove pretty much any app I don't use, I've been using ZEAM launcher for about 4 years on my current phone and previous. It hasn't been updated in about 2 years now, but as long as I can have the following I'll be ok:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
I think I'm probably overthinking all this and just need to start using it

I'm pretty new here, and I do have a z3 compact, but how did you root it? I'd like to mod some games and they require rooting to do so thats my reasoning.

RyukuZ said:
I'm pretty new here, and I do have a z3 compact, but how did you root it? I'd like to mod some games and they require rooting to do so thats my reasoning.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right now rooting involves unlocking bootloader. There is no root method for locked bootloader

What would be the best way to disable/delete/replace apps I wonder and how do you know what's safe to disable and what's not? Is it just a case of disabling everything or can you delete apps too? Anything else I should be aware of before I start the migrate?

cormie said:
What would be the best way to disable/delete/replace apps I wonder and how do you know what's safe to disable and what's not? Is it just a case of disabling everything or can you delete apps too? Anything else I should be aware of before I start the migrate?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You may try using the Search option in the XDA forum. All your questions have been already answered days or weeks ago

BarajaVLC said:
You may try using the Search option in the XDA forum. All your questions have been already answered days or weeks ago
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm so afraid though :angel: hehehe

cormie said:
I'm so afraid though :angel: hehehe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also hqve the razr I and looking to get a new upgrade as razr has become so slow
How does z3 compact compare, spec wise and physically as I found razr was perfect size

mickeystar said:
I also hqve the razr I and looking to get a new upgrade as razr has become so slow
How does z3 compact compare, spec wise and physically as I found razr was perfect size
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's meant to be a lot better, I haven't started using it, but size wise it's pretty much the same, you won't notice a difference using it or in your pocket lets say.
My razr has been slow too, but I think I'm just putting it through too much but other than that it's been a great phone.
I need a phone that can handle multi intensive apps running at the same time, maps, phone, music etc. I wouldn't think you'd be disappointed.

cormie said:
It's meant to be a lot better, I haven't started using it, but size wise it's pretty much the same, you won't notice a difference using it or in your pocket lets say.
My razr has been slow too, but I think I'm just putting it through too much but other than that it's been a great phone.
I need a phone that can handle multi intensive apps running at the same time, maps, phone, music etc. I wouldn't think you'd be disappointed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
razr has become very temperamental
i have found chrome to be incredibly slow and not even bothered with the latest few updates, music app stops randomly in general lots of lag. can no longer be bothered to wait for the 4.4 update
Looks like ill be switching to the z3 compact

cormie said:
I bought my Z3C 10 weeks ago and still haven't used it other than turning it on for a few minutes etc. I charged it for the first time yesterday and am now ready to start! I had been waiting in the hope that CM11/12 would come to it, but I think it's time to forget about that happening and just start using it.
I'm pretty ignorant of all tech things so would really appreciate any help in being able to achieve the following with it:
Rooted
Free of bloatware
updateable OTA
simple android launcher
all the while without losing quality of camera etc..
I've been suggested just using google now launcher and disabling apps and I've been suggested XPOSED and I've been suggested AOSP and I'm a little confused as to what to go for. I see FXP just posted this: http://fxpblog.co/releases/aosp-lollipop-release-from-fxp-just-in-time-for-christmas/
But I'm not even too sure if that meets my criteria?
It's a phone used 99% for business and once I set it up once, I want that to be it and don't want to be reinstalling ROMS etc. I'd like whatever I do now, to last me until I get rid of the phone in maybe 2 years time as I can't have any downtime (which is why I've chosen the Christmas holidays to migrate from my current phone to the Z3C too )
If anyone could please please advise I'd really appreciate it and you'd be greatly helping me!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't root, disable bloat where you can. Google now launcher on this phone is great!
May I also recommend the ringke fusion clear case.

My battery stats, are they good?

How are the battery stats for a year old device? My Xiaomi Mi Note 10 lite goes 9hrs sot on a 5210mah battery.
60Hz
FHD+
Sync on manual
Location off
4glte
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

paq1170 said:
How are the battery stats for a year old device? My Xiaomi Mi Note 10 lite goes 9hrs sot on a 5210mah battery.
60Hz
FHD+
Sync on manual
Location off
4glte
View attachment 5397557View attachment 5397559View attachment 5397561
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep not bad, above average.
Leave 120 on and location. I can still get 9-10 hours with it.
It's your apps that cost the most battery.

dladz said:
Yep not bad, above average.
Leave 120 on and location. I can still get 9-10 hours with it.
It's your apps that cost the most battery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah you got some trashware running, one of the worst is WhatsApp, it's a liability all way around.
UBA... best to go directly to the site through your browser rather than let their app run on your device unless you really need to.
Google is also sucking hard too. If you need its functionality fine.
If not, you can temporarily disable it. Try disabling just Google play Services to see how much of a difference it makes over 24 hours. You can toggle it on/off as needed. It has a lot of nickel and dime dependencies that rely on it. So cut the dragon's head off and see what you got.

blackhawk said:
Yeah you got some trashware running, one of the worst is WhatsApp, it's a liability all way around.
UBA... best to go directly to the site through your browser rather than let their app run on your device unless you really need to.
Google is also sucking hard too. If you need its functionality fine.
If not, you can temporarily disable it. Try disabling just Google play Services to see how much of a difference it makes over 24 hours. You can toggle it on/off as needed. It has a lot of nickel and dime dependencies that rely on it. So cut the dragon's head off and see what you got.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Open apps and notifications, then battery within an app and restrict..that's all I've needed to do tbh.
Have never breached 11 hours on this phone, managed 14 on the OnePlus 5 and 17 on the p20 pro

Thanks for your opinions. UBA is my banking app, i did alot of transactions. I had alot of pending updates that i attending to, maybe thats why Google play services drained alot. As for whatsapp, well a necessary evil.

paq1170 said:
Thanks for your opinions. UBA is my banking app, i did alot of transactions. I had alot of pending updates that i attending to, maybe thats why Google play services drained alot. As for whatsapp, well a necessary evil.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea I use WhatsApp. Way too many family members use it, plus work.
There's a plus version that could potentially be less draining..
Not sure if it is or not

dladz said:
Yea I use WhatsApp. Way too many family members use it, plus work.
There's a plus version that could potentially be less draining..
Not sure if it is or not
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Text or phone them. All FB companies are bad, beyond redemption. They destroy careers, lives and are used to manipulate the masses.
Don't fed the beast, speaking of the devil...
Irish Watchdog Fines WhatsApp $266 Million for 'Severe' Breaches of Privacy Law
The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) has imposed a record 225-million-euro ($266 million) fine on WhatsApp Ireland for infringements of data ...
m.theepochtimes.com

blackhawk said:
Text or phone them. All FB companies are bad, beyond redemption. They destroy careers, lives and are used to manipulate the masses.
Don't fed the beast, speaking of the devil...
Irish Watchdog Fines WhatsApp $266 Million for 'Severe' Breaches of Privacy Law
The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) has imposed a record 225-million-euro ($266 million) fine on WhatsApp Ireland for infringements of data ...
m.theepochtimes.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have Facebook dude..
Got rid of it years ago.
They're a massive pile of crap, should be banned. Probably would be if they didn't feed the government with all our data. Plus anyone with a bank balance willing to pay for it.

dladz said:
I don't have Facebook dude..
Got rid of it years ago.
They're a massive pile of crap, should be banned. Probably would be if they didn't feed the government with all our data. Plus anyone with a bank balance willing to pay for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read the article, or use "find" (face) to search for it. FB, Instagram, Twitter are the same. WhatsApp is a data miner sharing the digital wealth. All are unacceptable liabilities.
Root cause; you're not the customer, you're the product.
Meh, time to take out the trash...

blackhawk said:
Read the article, or use "find" (face) to search for it. FB, Instagram, Twitter are the same. WhatsApp is a data miner sharing the digital wealth. All are unacceptable liabilities.
Root cause; you're not the customer, you're the product.
Meh, time to take out the trash...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep I'm aware bud. That's why I don't deal with them.

dladz said:
Yep I'm aware bud. That's why I don't deal with them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The issue with all of these apps goes far beyond just data mine or fedding you disinformation.
Ever post something you shouldn't have? It's bound to happen. Deleting may not stop it from doing damage.
Anyone investigating you can weaponize even seemingly innocuous posts against you let alone those occasional off posts.
You have conveniently index them for easy reference for anyone who cares to investigate or profile you.
The larger the platform's head count, the higher the risks.
15 years ago I posted on FB for 3 weeks until the light went on. NO.

I dont think i can live without whatsapp. Although i dont do facebook no more. Guys, i got two questions instead of opening a new thread.
1. If i wanted to squeeze out more battery life, will rooting and undervolting/ underclocking make any difference? Is there a custom kernel that is optimised for battery life?
2. Whats d best GCam? The camera on this phone is good, but i feel the software is underwhelming.

Cigars are a more benign addiction... Perhaps you just stated the most convincing argument to delete WhatsApp. Positive benefits vs negative ones; what's your payoff for using it?
You would root a phone just to use a social media app? When the actual problem is the app and the least of of it's undesirable qualities is battery consumption.
Rooting isn't needed on today's phones or even necessarily desirable.
Don't need to see another I bricked my phone thread here.
Aa for Gcam I don't have a clue.

blackhawk said:
Cigars are a more benign addiction... Perhaps you just stated the most convincing argument to delete WhatsApp. Positive benefits vs negative ones; what's your payoff for using it?
You would root a phone just to use a social media app? When the actual problem is the app and the least of of it's undesirable qualities is battery consumption.
Rooting isn't needed on today's phones or even necessarily desirable.
Don't need to see another I bricked my phone thread here.
Aa for Gcam I don't have a clue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry but I disagree with you bud.
WhatsApp although affiliated they have my number and thats it.
As for root. Yes it is needed.
Very very much so.
This is xda developers. Wouldn't be much development without root.

paq1170 said:
I dont think i can live without whatsapp. Although i dont do facebook no more. Guys, i got two questions instead of opening a new thread.
1. If i wanted to squeeze out more battery life, will rooting and undervolting/ underclocking make any difference? Is there a custom kernel that is optimised for battery life?
2. Whats d best GCam? The camera on this phone is good, but i feel the software is underwhelming.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes
2. For the best overall experience the OOS camera stands alone, gcam is way too buggy

dladz said:
Sorry but I disagree with you bud.
WhatsApp although affiliated they have my number and thats it.
As for root. Yes it is needed.
Very very much so.
This is xda developers. Wouldn't be much development without root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It just depends how much you value your time and how you wish to spend it.
Just because you can doesn't mean you should...
Cheers

blackhawk said:
It just depends how much you value your time and how you wish to spend it.
Just because you can doesn't mean you should...
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whether I should or not is irrelevant, I can and I choose to.
Being good at what I know means my time is unaffected.
I can root and install a ROM in less time it takes to set up your new phone.
Also this little lot:
Not watching ads
Being able to remove bloat.
Being able disable zram / install custom ROMs /kernels / Magisk mods / tweak clock settings / systemless modifications / change boot animation / add animations to device / use root apps like wifikill / access the 4th camera / back up in frozen state using titanium or swift / disable logging.
I could do this all day bud, saying you don't need root on xda is like saying don't share an opinion on Reddit it makes no sense, if you'd like to see what no root on a device does to a community, please go and check out a Huawei devices threads, it is a ghost town, there is literally no point of them being there it's just full of sad people who didn't realise they couldn't unlock their bootloader with the occasional thread about using your phone without root, it's a pretty pathetic sight in all honesty.
"Just because you can doesn't mean you should"
Also please no more quotes, I can't take any more.

Rooting is the reason why i love android. The freedom that comes with rooting can not be obtained with jailbreaking iphones

paq1170 said:
Rooting is the reason why i love android. The freedom that comes with rooting can not be obtained with jailbreaking iphones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
100% agree.
If you've ever played a car game on PC/consoles and you get to buy a crappy or sub par car but it can be upgraded to be a bohemoth monster, like a Honda s2000 or VW GTI.
That's Android
Apple is the other option for the more expensive Ferrari, that is rapid but cannot be modified at all and you're already at the peak of what it can be..
People with an imagination should stick with Android, if you need to have choices made for you then yep jump on Apple they're more than happy to choose for you.
Seems were going off topic here but at the same time rooting is really closely tied to battery life and performancr.
When I had my p20 pro. I could unlock the bootloader and root, which I did, the processor was not enough to run GameCube games, but when I disabled zRAM it was the catalyst to make games just about playable, used the windwaker as a base (I have a thread about this on the P20 Pro forum)
I lost my key and then installed a firmware that locked the bootloader, I was screwed from that point onwards.
Performance gone, all root apps gone, and believe me when you can't root you really miss those apps, there just is no comparable variant, the entire P20 Pro forum died overnight, there was nothing to install, modify, change or tweak..the knock on effect is the subsequent Huawei forums, check out the 30 and 40 forums, they're dead, deader than Bidens presidency.
Long live root I say.
So long as we get someone to take over Magisk development now that topjohnwu has sold his soul and so long as Nvidia don't acquire ARM and void any attempts to root, were golden. But they're two big IF's
There's always been a threat over root and that will always be the case but this is the biggest issue we've ever faced on a massive scale.
For example, every Magisk user today lost the ability to use Gpay globally.
Cheers John.