Database Users

[Q] Need help recovering i337 S4

Hi All,
I just got an SPH-i337 yesterday and attempted to Root + Install Mod.
I ended up rooting and installing Safestrap (TWRP 2.6.x.x). Upon first use I backed up my current OS to a removable SD card using the utility in TWRP. I then, because I was not clear on how to download install CM which was what I was going to, installed ROM Manager and selected CM without setting up a ROM slot. I think this is where I went wrong.
Upon reboot, I was unable to access the Stock ROM and had no options to go to CM. When I attempted to perform a restore from my backup on SD it failed as well and keeps going to the Android recovery screen (not TWRP).
I'm now just trying to go back to stock and have tried using both Heimdall and Odin to no avail. Odin at least provides an error message:
SW REV. CHECK FAIL: Fused:4, Binary:1. What does this mean? That I'm attempting to use an image (.tar.md5 file) which is not current? Is there a way that I can still recover my phone?

..also, please let me know if there are pieces of information that I'm missing. I don't have much to go off of since the firmware and other information (I believe) is not able to be accessed.
Again I just got the phone yesterday. I also have about 40 tabs open that are full of searches that I've been doing regarding this. As yet, no luck.

revolut10n said:
..also, please let me know if there are pieces of information that I'm missing. I don't have much to go off of since the firmware and other information (I believe) is not able to be accessed.
Again I just got the phone yesterday. I also have about 40 tabs open that are full of searches that I've been doing regarding this. As yet, no luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look for the mk2 tar files. And do a lot of reading. You went wrong in a number of different areas

revolut10n said:
Hi All,
I just got an SPH-i337 yesterday and attempted to Root + Install Mod.
I ended up rooting and installing Safestrap (TWRP 2.6.x.x). Upon first use I backed up my current OS to a removable SD card using the utility in TWRP. I then, because I was not clear on how to download install CM which was what I was going to, installed ROM Manager and selected CM without setting up a ROM slot. I think this is where I went wrong.
Upon reboot, I was unable to access the Stock ROM and had no options to go to CM. When I attempted to perform a restore from my backup on SD it failed as well and keeps going to the Android recovery screen (not TWRP).
I'm now just trying to go back to stock and have tried using both Heimdall and Odin to no avail. Odin at least provides an error message:
SW REV. CHECK FAIL: Fused:4, Binary:1. What does this mean? That I'm attempting to use an image (.tar.md5 file) which is not current? Is there a way that I can still recover my phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
revolut10n said:
..also, please let me know if there are pieces of information that I'm missing. I don't have much to go off of since the firmware and other information (I believe) is not able to be accessed.
Again I just got the phone yesterday. I also have about 40 tabs open that are full of searches that I've been doing regarding this. As yet, no luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Safestrap only works with other TW ROMS, so your first issue was trying to use CM. Second, it's not official TWRP and is not even installed to the recovery partition so using ROM Manager was your second issue. Trying to boot into recovery normally will take you to stock recovery since it isn't installed in the recovery partition, there should be a splash screen that comes up after the Samsung Galaxy S4 screen asking to either press for recovery or continue. If that works, you can use the backup from there. If it's gone, you have to use ODIN. The reason you get that SW REV. CHECK FAIL is because you're trying to flash an older firmware than you have. Depending on if you were on 4.2.2 or 4.3 you will either need the MF3 or MK2 .tar.md5 respectively.

jd1639 said:
Look for the mk2 tar files. And do a lot of reading. You went wrong in a number of different areas
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for pointing me to those files. I'm sure I did go wrong in a few places as I felt that I was largely just winging it.. There's a TON of information out there. Is there anything specific that I was more wrong than the rest?

revolut10n said:
Thanks for pointing me to those files. I'm sure I did go wrong in a few places as I felt that I was largely just winging it.. There's a TON of information out there. Is there anything specific that I was more wrong than the rest?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Deadly sin said it all. Cm and rom manager. Here are the files you need http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=49687770

Thanks everyone. Hell of an introduction to Android, I have to say considering I just got off the WinPhone bandwagon yesterday (been using it for ~7 years).

revolut10n said:
Thanks everyone. Hell of an introduction to Android, I have to say considering I just got off the WinPhone bandwagon yesterday (been using it for ~7 years).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The s4 is a very difficult phone to use custom roms on. Once you're back up and running start here and read a lot before doing anything with it http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=42320391

jd1639 said:
The s4 is a very difficult phone to use custom roms on. Once you're back up and running start here and read a lot before doing anything with it http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=42320391
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now you tell me - after I've been trying to do this for 12+ hours. Many thanks though - it looks like the MK2 AiO files are working.

jd1639 said:
The s4 is a very difficult phone to use custom roms on. Once you're back up and running start here and read a lot before doing anything with it http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=42320391
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, it seems that I can't use the method listed directly on that page on account of running the MK2 baseband. If I'm going to go forward it looks like I'll have to use SafeStrap and unofficial TWRM + TW mods for the time being.
Of course, if something about what I'm saying is wrong, I'd be glad to hear it.

revolut10n said:
Unfortunately, it seems that I can't use the method listed directly on that page on account of running the MK2 baseband. If I'm going to go forward it looks like I'll have to use SafeStrap and unofficial TWRM + TW mods for the time being.
Of course, if something about what I'm saying is wrong, I'd be glad to hear it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check my last Post #50 it should get u an idea and where to find related link. Also check that MK2 INDEX & ROM LIST ....:good:

OTA push

OK, I must have inadvertantly started OTA and got the must install / delay screen pop up. I froze the smaller update system app to rid the pop up, and removed the update.zip package.
So far 2 weeks of reboots and use age no OTA package installer pop ups.

Is that for your I467 model and are you blocking the KitKat update, or a different model?

On both types... I am not dissabling OTA, as I may want to install 4.4.2 later. Just keeping the blasted install update notice from popping up every so often. It does not effect downloads or app installs, just keeps the notice from being a pain in the arse.

Do you happen to still have the 4.4.2 update.zip file?
@muniz_ri is trying to help us get root on 4.4.2 but he needs the 4.4.2 update.zip file for the i467.
If you have the file would you be willing to post a link so we can download it and work on rooting it?

dandroid7 said:
Do you happen to still have the 4.4.2 update.zip file?
@muniz_ri is trying to help us get root on 4.4.2 but he needs the 4.4.2 update.zip file for the i467.
If you have the file would you be willing to post a link so we can download it and work on rooting it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not for the i467 as I never connected with AT&T, just rooted and unlocked to use Virgin UK. Though I froze the software update to mirror my GT-N5110 settings.

OK thanks for the response

dandroid7 said:
OK thanks for the response
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent you a message

gooberdude said:
On both types... , just keeps the notice from being a pain in the arse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought I had read somewhere that you had both models, it was a pain.
I just couldn't remember how I stopped my pop-up, thanks you.
Quote godzulu
If you have the file would you be willing to post a link so we can download it and work on rooting it?
I'm sure that I have yet to complete a download of the OTA for I467. For years I'd preferred a custom Rom or kernel vs a carrier update - with that being said, how can I Download it & then STOP the installation (i do not want the update without root) & next, locate the zip to get it to you?
I would already guess that you and others have already tried.
***********************
It looks like someone had passed the file along & maybe Da_G is attempting a a workaround, yea!

OK, I realized that I had changed the option in about device to set auto update. If you go into app manager, and clear cache and data in both software update apps, you will reset parameters for FOTA. The nice thing about doing so on the GT-N5110, is that you can select world ROMs. UK GB is what I use, as it has 13 channel WIfI already set.
If you choose automatic, you will get a notice and will ask to install once the download iscompleted. if you do it manually, it will download when you select download.... but you can cancel.
The Firmware is located in System/cache/update, and the fle is update.zip.
If you like to mess with a library of ROMs, you can download as many as you like after renaming and moving them to SD.
As for rooting... Saferoot.zip works fine. there are a few topics that have it downloadable. just search in the Note 8.0 general and Q&A sections.

[GUIDE] Flashing ROMs to the Vivo Air

Alright, so following some prodding, searching, and questioning, I flashed MIUI V6 to my BLU Vivo Air alongside TWRP.
I will update this post with a detailed, step-by-step guide including my own personal mirrors for your convenience and those of you without 4PDA accounts, which is the Russian equivalent of XDA.
Upon booting, I noticed apps force closing without being launched. Namely Hangouts and Newsstand. I'm sure reinstalling them will resolve the issue rather quickly.
Stay tuned for updates.
Update 1:
TWRP had difficulty mounting data and cache for me, and was unable to format them. This led to applications force closing, window mishaps, and accounts glitching out. I just flashed Carliv recovery, and flashed MIUI with it. Flashing gapps at the moment, and will update you on my progress.
Update 2:
Currently attempting to format data (success), cache (success), and dalvik (success).
Update 3:
Rebooting into MIUI V6, checking if I've entered a bootloop.
5 seconds - Boot animation reached, "MIUI Pro."
165 seconds - Still booting.
180 seconds - Setup screen reached, MIUI V6 flashed successfully.
Update 4:
Google apps flashed successfully, no redraws or force closes this time. Had an issue with the keyboard not registering as being selected, Google voice typing appeared as the default. Pull down notification shader and "choose input method" to select MIUI Smart Keyboard. Signed into Google successfully. Will run preliminary tests on video playback, camera, and multitasking.
Guide:
If you mess up your phone, it is on you, and I am not to be held liable for your actions. This is your responsibility. A lack of planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on mine. With that out of the way, if you encounter troubles, I am more than happy to help you.
Step 1:
Root your phone using one of the links provided. Click HERE for method 1, or HERE for method 2. I personally used method 1 because it was the first I saw. They both get the job done.
Step 2:
Install THIS application (Settings -> Security -> Unknown Sources), and install a recovery. I installed Carliv recovery, and had no problems with it. You can also install TWRP, however, it had issues mounting data and cache. This left it unable to factory reset when I flashed MIUI, which subsequently led to problems. I do not recommend flashing TWRP - You have been warned. Carliv recovery says it can't "mount" cache, although when formatting it does so without a problem. I believe Carliv is supposed to be touch-based, although the touches weren't responding for me. The controls are as follows: Volume +/- for navigating, Power for selecting, and the Back key for, you guessed it, going back.
Step 3:
Install MIUI V6, located HERE, and then install Google Apps, located HERE. After installing, factory reset the device from recovery and reboot into the system. I posted my timestamps at the top of the post, so you can get an idea of how long your flash/boot process should take.
Step 4:
Basic setup. Be ready to fix your keyboard if you had the same issue I did, which isn't even necessarily a problem. Choose WLAN network and sign into your accounts, then you're good to go.
To root the ROM, I recommend finding "iRoot" for your computer. Then boot to recovery and install the SuperSU zip, as it's better than the root app which comes with the iRoot method.
Enjoy your ROM, and be sure to thank our Ruski comrades over at 4PDA!
Special thanks to @DvDwx. (research), @itsJohnuno (answers), and @Milly7 (testing).
All download links are being hosted by me, and I recommend creating mirrors of your own as safety precautions in the event that the files are removed or become unavailable.
Have a phenomenal day or night, possibly even both. If you have any questions, I'll do my best to answer them.

Nice Guide ;D

DvDwx. said:
Nice Guide ;D
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Push that Guide to Android Development thread, that is a ROM ;D
We need talk with our Forum Administrator to Manage some Topics and Fuse KAZAM Tornado 348 with BLU Vivo Air menu... and try explain to this administrator about the re-branding process to he can add the other phones like AllView, Fly and Gionee to this Phone Menu Threads topics ;D
:highfive:

DvDwx. said:
Push that Guide to Android Development thread, that is a ROM ;D
We need talk with our Forum Administrator to Manage some Topics and Fuse KAZAM Tornado 348 with BLU Vivo Air menu... and try explain to this administrator about the re-branding process to he can add the other phones like AllView, Fly and Gionee to this Phone Menu Threads topics ;D
:highfive:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't create the resources in the ROM, I just made a guide to flashing ROMs using a specific ROM as an example. I would feel bad posting it in the developer section because I don't wish to be given credit for the ROM. I didn't make it.

Ilxaot said:
I didn't create the resources in the ROM, I just made a guide to flashing ROMs using a specific ROM as an example. I would feel bad posting it in the developer section because I don't wish to be given credit for the ROM. I didn't make it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i understand that ;D
on my WonderMedia WM8880 Tablet project i share the projects from other developers... but i asked they to have permission to share that, and leave on post the credits with their names... maybe if you talk with developer on 4PDA for permission to do it or ask him if it is possible he share he ROM Project here is will be perfect... anyway Good Guide to Flash this ROM :highfive:

Could you please describe how to flash the carliv recovery. I downloaded the app in step 2 but I can't even seem to install the twrp recovery because phone reboots into stock recovery and I don't even see an option for the carliv one.

dimasp6 said:
Could you please describe how to flash the carliv recovery. I downloaded the app in step 2 but I can't even seem to install the twrp recovery because phone reboots into stock recovery and I don't even see an option for the carliv one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need have root to do this... And sometimes the root dont work correctly and dont stay giving the rights to aplicantion can work...

DvDwx. said:
You need have root to do this... And sometimes the root dont work correctly and dont stay giving the rights to aplicantion can work...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do have root with Kingroot. So I just need to keep trying until it successfully flashes?
Edit: The app mlp RIO recovery installer constantly freezes on me not allowing me to flash any of the recoveries.

dimasp6 said:
I do have root with Kingroot. So I just need to keep trying until it successfully flashes?
Edit: The app mlp RIO recovery installer constantly freezes on me not allowing me to flash any of the recoveries.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can also try iRoot. Install SuperSU and try using it as the root granter for the recoveries.

Does the magnetometer (compass) work for you guys on the miui rom? It doesn't work for me.

ron580 said:
Does the magnetometer (compass) work for you guys on the miui rom? It doesn't work for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The app itself hadn't worked for me, I tried it earlier. Have you tested another app? It may be the stock app. I haven't messed with it much, not a huge navigator myself. [emoji14]

Ilxaot said:
The app itself hadn't worked for me, I tried it earlier. Have you tested another app? It may be the stock app. I haven't messed with it much, not a huge navigator myself. [emoji14]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The senor doesn't work at all using this rom & google maps wont work properly without it. Also the time on the lock screen and the home screen show different times about an hour apart Other than that everything else works fine.

ron580 said:
The senor doesn't work at all using this rom & google maps wont work properly without it. Also the time on the lock screen and the home screen show different times about an hour apart Other than that everything else works fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. I've also noticed that downloading updates is botched, because it downloads an update for a different phone model. If you try to install it the installation will fail, but it won't hurt your phone.
All in all it's a pretty solid ROM for me.

Ilxaot said:
Yeah. I've also noticed that downloading updates is botched, because it downloads an update for a different phone model. If you try to install it the installation will fail, but it won't hurt your phone.
All in all it's a pretty solid ROM for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes its a great rom maybe we can ask the developer if he can fix the issues for us on 4pda. I would do it but i couldn't register on 4pda i kept on receiving an error.

request
Ilxaot said:
All in all it's a pretty solid ROM for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Known bugs? any screenshot running this ROM please? I'd like to see some, I'm not updated on what's going on with MIUI and btw, great work! thanks in advance!

JesusEMC said:
Known bugs? any screenshot running this ROM please? I'd like to see some, I'm not updated on what's going on with MIUI and btw, great work! thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll post some tomorrow. Re-read the past 5-6 posts and you'll see the bugs. I think you'll like it. MIUI is certainly different (settings default apps) and such, but it's a formidable ROM and performs relatively well.

ron580 said:
Yes its a great rom maybe we can ask the developer if he can fix the issues for us on 4pda. I would do it but i couldn't register on 4pda i kept on receiving an error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
on Captcha you need count the numbers and ignore the russian Letters Like for exemple -> ##22###16## -> 22+16= 38
to can finish the registration... and no, you don't need use VPN or Proxy to create the account :highfive:

ron580 said:
Yes its a great rom maybe we can ask the developer if he can fix the issues for us on 4pda. I would do it but i couldn't register on 4pda i kept on receiving an error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure he knows about it...and the guy is activity working on the ROM...except the latest update seems to just boot loop from what I've read, rather just wait and see.

itsJohnuno said:
I'm sure he knows about it...and the guy is activity working on the ROM...except the latest update seems to just boot loop from what I've read, rather just wait and see.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Our Buddy @SSJGohon found the kernel source code and already shared on some topic(i Already re-shared that on Cyanogen Mod to Mediatek SoC's Development thread... but anyone there say nothing about it... and already shared on 4PDA to maybe the MiUi developer can Bring something to All...). i already downloaded and already start my research about what can be maked with that and for sure have a possibility to we have a custom Kernel and maybe Custom ROM like PURE AOSP, AOSPA... but Cyanogen Mod is more difficult because we don't have a updated Repo Source from MediaTek to work like Driver Blobs to GPU, Bluetooth, Wifi Drivers... etc
My real problem is i don't have all skills to make a custom kernel to Mediatek SoC because a lot of things change from Qualcomm to Mediatek.. but if anyone here want to try development that just search the topics with @SSJGohon comments replays :highfive:

Ilxaot said:
I'll post some tomorrow. Re-read the past 5-6 posts and you'll see the bugs. I think you'll like it. MIUI is certainly different (settings default apps) and such, but it's a formidable ROM and performs relatively well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've already installed the ROM, it runs smoothly! You were right, I really like it! I had an issue trying to format /data, it took like 15 minutes, and did a hard reset (pressed power button for a few seconds) and tried to format again and it worked. Im a little bit worry cause I've had 2 radom reboots so far.. Any idea of what has happened to me?

Stock ROMs Factory v6.1 , v8.3 , v8.4 , v8.5 , v8.7, V9.0, V9.2-patch : v21

CAUTION TO NOT LOOSE TWRP
I read two posts that say v21, now again on V8.5, put the stock recovery back instead of twrp. This is probably a side effect of a fresh stock /system and wipe of /data.
As a preventive step, when done flashing and wiping reboot to recovery FIRST, before booting the system It will allow recovery to handle removing the recovery-from-boot.p that flashes stock recovery.
I just patched the modified V7.4.2 up to the newly released 8.3 now 8.4. 8.5, 8.7,9.0 -V9.2 Patch
New update has been made from V17 to V21 of the non prime version of R1-HD, Non prime is behind on security patch (2017-05-05)
Copied ROM from phone and made twrp install ROM from it.
* No preloader change (official updates change the preloader to block your ability to use sp flash tools for rom flashing)
* No lk.bin change __ this part is what allows you to choose boot options(boot menu when power and volume pressed together)
* No "FOTA" app Fota has now been left in to make it easier to get next update, if that ever happens.
* No opera browser
* No adds (removed in the modified 7.4.2)
* Custom boot logo (only done on v8.3, there was no interest in this so abandoned)
--Newer versions of rom left stock, Leaving mods up to user.
** while it is not necessary to do a wipe with this ROM, I still recommend it.
**Thanks:
** @vampirefo needed his patched v7.4.2 in order to apply this new 8.3 patch and again for 8.4
** @ColtonDRG OR @jasonmerc I do not remember which one made it: For the image used in the custom logo
and the modified zip is here .
Roms are rootable with SuperSU, flashed in twrp after install. Must be done in systemless mode. In order to patch system veridy in boot.img
Logo update did not work on original rom changing link to updated version
BLU rolled v8.3 back to v7.4.2 because of app compatability issues. V8.4 is there fixed release. Both 8.3 and 8.4 are modified prime roms with ads stripped
V21 is the non prime update.
Unmodified V6.1
==>NON-ROOTED-logo-not-replaced-modified-V8.3
==>Fixed Logo modified NON_ROOTED V8.3
==>>modified V8.4
==>>modified V8.5
==>>Full with Ads V8.7
==>>Full with Ads V9.0
==>>Patch For V9.2 must be flashed on top of fresh V9.0
****Run debloat ==>script to remove ads if you need/ want to, or remove from zip before flashing ****
alt. manual example: before reboot, while still in twrp. Select mount and put checkmark next to system. Then run these two commands in adb terminal
Code:
adb shell rm /system/priv-app/com.amazon.*/com.amazon.*.apk
adb shell rm /system/app/Adups*/*.apk
==>>Modified V21
** stand alone logo installs

I flashed this but I didn't get the custom boot logo.

mendelgordon said:
I flashed this but I didn't get the custom boot logo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had that happen to my second phone too.
I don't have an explanation yet.
I even made a separate update.zip , that one didn't make the logo change either. I did eventually change it with sp flash tool.
I tried with both recoveries.
and multiple /dev location formats. and for whatever reason my one phone did not accept the logo change from recovery.
And the other test phone it worked.

mendelgordon said:
I flashed this but I didn't get the custom boot logo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Neither did I but it all seems to be working fine

Been using this for about a day now, likewise no custom boot logo, but that's fine. Otherwise, it's been running super well. A lot better than the previous mostly stock version did for me with the bloatware APKs removed after the install. A lot of the general idiosyncrasies of the previous version of the stock rom seem to have gone away for me. It seemed to have weird storage management issues, errors moving to SD, broken symlinks that prevent apps from moving or being reinstalled, and a lot of other little non-storage issues, but so far, none off that here.
Long story short, good work! I hope we eventually see proper 7.x roms through some of the efforts going on, but in the meanwhile, your work here has made life a little bit better on 6.

It seems that I was able to get the logo.bin to update when I applied the original update patch, but not when I used the same line in the rom install.
It is no big deal that it did not work, I was just trying to make it look different at boot time.
edit:
I think i found the problem with the logo not updating.
i used the update-binary from the official patch update. (the one that allowed the logo to change the first time)
and it changes . so since the ROM seems to install the way it is , only the logo didn't flash I put it in a separate update.zip if anyone is interested in it.
EDIT 2:
clarification.
It was not so much the binary allowing the logo to change but the format of the partition location I had been using that needed that binary.
Further test had shown me that I could have used the binary I was using but just change the partition naming line
Code:
package_extract_file("logo.bin", "/dev/block/mmcblk0p9")
the above code works with the same update-binary as rom install
But I was using
Code:
package_extract_file("logo.bin", "/dev/block/platform/mtk-msdc.0/11230000.msdc0/by-name/logo")
Taken straight from the official patch, and thats why it needed the update-binary also.
I dont know what is different in the binary other than , major size difference.
The powered by me logo was just a test file to see changes in the logo.
**logo-update is same as composite but with alt updater-binary
**composite-logo screenshot is in op
**stock logo will return to original BLU logo

mrmazak said:
It seems that I was able to get the logo.bin to update when I applied the original update patch, but not when I used the same line in the rom install.
It is no big deal that it did not work, I was just trying to make it look different at boot time.
edit:
I think i found the problem with the logo not updating.
i used the update-binary from the official patch update. (the one that allowed the logo to change the first time)
and it changes . so since the ROM seems to install the way it is , only the logo didn't flash I put it in a separate update.zip if anyone is interested in it.
EDIT 2:
clarification.
It was not so much the binary allowing the logo to change but the format of the partition location I had been using that needed that binary.
Further test had shown me that I could have used the binary I was using but just change the partition naming line
Code:
package_extract_file("logo.bin", "/dev/block/mmcblk0p9")
the above code works with the same update-binary as rom install
But I was using
Code:
package_extract_file("logo.bin", "/dev/block/platform/mtk-msdc.0/11230000.msdc0/by-name/logo")
Taken straight from the official patch, and thats why it needed the update-binary also.
I dont know what is different in the binary other than , major size difference.
The powered by me logo was just a test file to see changes in the logo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hahaha the scribbled "ME" is hilarious. Your work is awesome, I don't think anyone using this rom will have an issue with the boot image but thanks for being so helpful and explaining.
P. S. Do you have any plans with the Nougat update?

Serenitybs said:
Hahaha the scribbled "ME" is hilarious. Your work is awesome, I don't think anyone using this rom will have an issue with the boot image but thanks for being so helpful and explaining.
P. S. Do you have any plans with the Nougat update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nougat is going to take a full build from scratch. We don't have 100% identical hardware with any other nougat device to my knowledge. We might have the same MTK chipset, but there are several other differences. All we really need is an official device overlay and the vendor files released by BLU themselves. We can then apply those to the latest Lineage or AOSP (I prefer AOSP myself) and build. Then the only problem we'll run into is anything that has changed in 7.x that isn't compatible with our kernel we use in 6.0. It'd be a slight chance our current kernel would work without some patches on 7.x We can't even get our official sources for anything else, so I'm almost certain we'll not find any patches to for the kernel to work properly with Nougat, at least not from BLU or any similar devices. None The less Nougat has been well thought of, and we have been trying to debug issues with a broken Port. But a broken port from a different device is just that - Broken. We need a team of knowledgeable devs to build Nougat + Kernel from scratch and then we'll have it working. I can't do it alone with the old computer I have, the R1HD would be long forgot of by the time I got Android Compiled haha.
Mr. Mazak I flashed your rom it went smooth, I was hoping the newest update was for 6.0.1. But I didn't lose any functionality, hopefully on my Cricket Service this update has patched some things to the radio device that will retain connection more steadily. I experienced a lot of coming and going with the 7.4.2 rom. None The Less you did a good job with this update Mr. My suggestion is find the same MTK chipset with a fully working 7.x rom and just port the /System but keep all our libs and inits from this release just for a test starter. And don't replace the camera app thats in AOSP 7.x. )

linuxsociety said:
Nougat is going to take a full build from scratch. We don't have 100% identical hardware with any other nougat device to my knowledge. We might have the same MTK chipset, but there are several other differences. All we really need is an official device overlay and the vendor files released by BLU themselves. We can then apply those to the latest Lineage or AOSP (I prefer AOSP myself) and build. Then the only problem we'll run into is anything that has changed in 7.x that isn't compatible with our kernel we use in 6.0. It'd be a slight chance our current kernel would work without some patches on 7.x We can't even get our official sources for anything else, so I'm almost certain we'll not find any patches to for the kernel to work properly with Nougat, at least not from BLU or any similar devices. None The less Nougat has been well thought of, and we have been trying to debug issues with a broken Port. But a broken port from a different device is just that - Broken. We need a team of knowledgeable devs to build Nougat + Kernel from scratch and then we'll have it working. I can't do it alone with the old computer I have, the R1HD would be long forgot of by the time I got Android Compiled haha.
Mr. Mazak I flashed your rom it went smooth, I was hoping the newest update was for 6.0.1. But I didn't lose any functionality, hopefully on my Cricket Service this update has patched some things to the radio device that will retain connection more steadily. I experienced a lot of coming and going with the 7.4.2 rom. None The Less you did a good job with this update Mr. My suggestion is find the same MTK chipset with a fully working 7.x rom and just port the /System but keep all our libs and inits from this release just for a test starter. And don't replace the camera app thats in AOSP 7.x. )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Somebody already tried this out

linuxsociety said:
Nougat is going to take a full build from scratch. We don't have 100% identical hardware with any other nougat device to my knowledge. We might have the same MTK chipset, but there are several other differences. All we really need is an official device overlay and the vendor files released by BLU themselves. We can then apply those to the latest Lineage or AOSP (I prefer AOSP myself) and build. Then the only problem we'll run into is anything that has changed in 7.x that isn't compatible with our kernel we use in 6.0. It'd be a slight chance our current kernel would work without some patches on 7.x We can't even get our official sources for anything else, so I'm almost certain we'll not find any patches to for the kernel to work properly with Nougat, at least not from BLU or any similar devices. None The less Nougat has been well thought of, and we have been trying to debug issues with a broken Port. But a broken port from a different device is just that - Broken. We need a team of knowledgeable devs to build Nougat + Kernel from scratch and then we'll have it working. I can't do it alone with the old computer I have, the R1HD would be long forgot of by the time I got Android Compiled haha.
Mr. Mazak I flashed your rom it went smooth, I was hoping the newest update was for 6.0.1. But I didn't lose any functionality, hopefully on my Cricket Service this update has patched some things to the radio device that will retain connection more steadily. I experienced a lot of coming and going with the 7.4.2 rom. None The Less you did a good job with this update Mr. My suggestion is find the same MTK chipset with a fully working 7.x rom and just port the /System but keep all our libs and inits from this release just for a test starter. And don't replace the camera app thats in AOSP 7.x. )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was just wishful thinking. I have no idea how all of this is done. All I know is @mrmazak has helped me to fall in love with my phone again with this V8.3. The 7.4.2 did seem a bit buggy for my phone but this update works beautifully and I didn't even root it. If this remains true I will be happy with this phone for awhile even on 6.0

Really confused right now.
I was browsing through the settings menus. And found in the Settings-security- menu a toggle labeled "quick boot" ( not to be confused with "fastboot") . I enabled it then rebooted to see if it booted quicker. Didn't seem to make much if any difference. So I went back to turn it back off. And it wasn't there. I checked in my other phone , it wasn't there on that one either.
Did any body see this menu item, and if so where is is it?
Edit 1:
Few more power off , power on cycles to compare times. With other phone and defiantly seems to have turned on some faster boot option.
This phone goes from off to on in 5-6 seconds other phone takes about 20.
Edit 2:
OK , I panicked for a minute.
Couldn't find the setting and thought that it was another way to block sp flash tool by preventing you from ever being fully powered off.
But the setting was in accessibility not security.

Mrmazak, first of all, thanks for the ROM, installed it yesterday. But I have a problem with SELinuxModeChanger app. First, I'm getting a security warning when installing it, then - when running it. And another message, with this app running - "can't obtain root", although SuperSU shows its status with green #, like every other app it gives root privileges to. On my other Prime phone, running 6.1 out of the box stock ROM, FM radio works just fine with SELinuxModeChanger app behaving flawlessly (no security warnings whatsoever). Any ideas?

detroitredwings said:
Mrmazak, first of all, thanks for the ROM, installed it yesterday. But I have a problem with SELinuxModeChanger app. First, I'm getting a security warning when installing it, then - when running it. And another message, with this app running - "can't obtain root", although SuperSU shows its status with green #, like every other app it gives root privileges to. On my other Prime phone, running 6.1 out of the box stock ROM, FM radio works just fine with SELinuxModeChanger app behaving flawlessly (no security warnings whatsoever). Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The mode changer app is technically a security issue. I did have that warning a few times when using mode changer app from the XDA thread of the developer, then when I used the app downloaded from f-droid it worked with systemless root and didn't give the security warning.

The app downloaded from f-droid worked for me as well, many thanks!

Big thanks for getting this out, updated from previous debloated, rooted version to this modified 8.3 stock rom, rooted with SU v2.79 SR3, all is good - only App that won't show up nor install, even tried the ones off APK Mirror site - is my Dunkin Donuts App, LOL. Play Store now said it's not compatible and the APK started to install then failed - any ideas or suggestions on what to do ??
Otherwise, it's all good - I will survive without DD App, just run that from another device when I need my caffeine fix.

Letitride said:
Big thanks for getting this out, updated from previous debloated, rooted version to this modified 8.3 stock rom, rooted with SU v2.79 SR3, all is good - only App that won't show up nor install, even tried the ones off APK Mirror site - is my Dunkin Donuts App, LOL. Play Store now said it's not compatible and the APK started to install then failed - any ideas or suggestions on what to do ??
Otherwise, it's all good - I will survive without DD App, just run that from another device when I need my caffeine fix.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also had an app that previously work, say is not compatible now.
Maybe has to do with apps that have links to pay accounts. And that has something to do with trustzone. (Tee1 & tee2)
Those sections I left out of the update. I will add it back in and test. Update when I do. It is also possible this problem is why Blu rolled back there update.
**EDIT**
well that didn't go well at all.
I flashed the new trustzone.bin files from the official update. Now phone no longer turns on and no longer connects to flash tool
**EDIT 2**
After much persistence and many failed attempts to get phone recognized in pc again. Finnaly got to a point that phone was cycling between "preloader" driver and "usb serial device", and with careful timing was able to start sp flash tool at just right time and the flashing back to original trustzone files seems to have recovered phone.
for the record i am not sure what steps made it work. But I was shifting back and forth between leaving phone sit on charge, then on charge with rubber band wrapped around power button, then not plugged in , and not plugged in with rubber band on power button.

Okay... persistence is key in customization, i guess! I am getting somewhere here!
mrmazak said:
The first link is needed to get phone unlocked so you can install twrp.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Finally got thru the steps in order (1-2-3-4) then Step (5) and sub-step 1. I can also boot to TWRP.
Now this brings me to this thread, 8.3 Stock ROM. The thread assumes one knows how to install it and I suspect this could be as easy as uploading it to a folder in the phone then booting to TWRP and INSTALLING the ZIP file? Could someone clarify the steps to install this 8.3 ROM?
Thanks!

OldSkewler said:
Okay... persistence is key in customization, i guess! I am getting somewhere here!
Finally got thru the steps in order (1-2-3-4) then Step (5) and sub-step 1. I can also boot to TWRP.
Now this brings me to this thread, 8.3 Stock ROM. The thread assumes one knows how to install it and I suspect this could be as easy as uploading it to a folder in the phone then booting to TWRP and INSTALLING the ZIP file? Could someone clarify the steps to install this 8.3 ROM?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. You are correct
Either put the zip file on external sd card , put card into phone boot into recovery mode and install , or put file directly onto phone .
Many ways to do that.
Easiest is to copy to phone while phone is connected to PC.
Cam also download file from internet with your phone.
Bottom line is get zip file to the phone boot to recovery and install

Anyone else having wifi issues after upgrading? While watching videos it seems the internet cuts out. The phone says it's still connected but I have to turn wifi off and back on for anything to work. Could be my router also but it didn't seem to be doing this until I installed 8.3

mrmazak said:
Yes. You are correct
Either put the zip file on external sd card , put card into phone boot into recovery mode and install , or put file directly onto phone .
Easiest is to copy to phone while phone is connected to PC.
Bottom line is get zip file to the phone boot to recovery and install
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right on man! I am officially running 8.3 ROM with April 5th 2017 Security Patch Level! Geez.. it was not easy but I got this working!
MrMazak, I followed all your instructions on both links, so could you tell me what exactly I have on my phone? Is it rooted? Bootloader Unlocked? The phone seems to be working fine but I don't know what level of access I have. Honestly I don't even know exactly what the differences between all these terms are.
Also, do I have or not SU? One of the steps under the .bat I believe install it. How do I access it?
Thanks again!
---------- Post added at 10:19 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:18 PM ----------
Weasel0 said:
Anyone else having wifi issues after upgrading? While watching videos it seems the internet cuts out. The phone says it's still connected but I have to turn wifi off and back on for anything to work. Could be my router also but it didn't seem to be doing this until I installed 8.3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My install is pretty fresh, couple of hours, but as far as I can tell all is working fine with Wifi, As a matter of fact this is a new device only connected with Wifi and no SIM Card.... internet works fine.

[RECOVERY][TWRP][Unofficial] Galaxy Tab Active 2 - TWRP 3.2.3-0 [Exynos]

Disclaimer
**** All flashing is done at your own risk! ****
**** While this recovery should not break your device, don't come back here blaming anyone if it does! ****
This is a TWRP 3.2.3 build based on Android 7.1.2 source kernel for the Galaxy Tab Active 2 (codename: gtactive2lte) - Exynos. The "tar" file should be installed using Odin (tested on Odin 3.12.3).
Special Notes:
1. DON'T FORGET TO ENABLE "OEM UNLOCK" (located in Developers options, if its not there, you may have to wait for a few days to access that option, some users claim that its within 10 days before this option appears).
2. KNOX will be tripped once you flashed custom binaries to your phone.
3. Samsung Firmware OTA (aka System Updates) will no longer work once you flashed custom binaries.
(You can flash custom ROMs if you want to keep the OS up-to-date.)
4. It is HIGHLY UNRECOMMENDED to purchase any access to any kind of private forums, ROMs or Kernels.(DO NOT GET FOOLED.)
Installation process:
1. Flash Stock ROM.
2. Flash recovery using Odin (AP = recovery.tar).
3. Load recovery immediately after flashing.
4. Format data (Will erase /data partition).
5. Reboot to recovery.
6. ADB push SuperSU to internal storage / insert SD-Card with SuperSU.zip.
7. Flash SuperSU using TWRP install option.
8. Reboot to system (May bootloop several times. Wait untill system loads).
Bugs:
1. ADB sometimes doesn't work in MTP mode. Need to manually change to PTP in order to get adb usage.
2. Bad label in ADB shell + bad characters appearing while writing through AD. Works well out of recovery and on recovery's terminal.
Sources:
Device tree - Device tree
Kernel - Kernel
TWRP sources - platform_manifest_twrp_omni
SuperSU - SuperSU-2.82-SR5
Recovery download:
Recovery
Version Information
Status: Stable
Current Stable Version: 1.0
Stable Release Date: 08/19/2018 (DD/MM/YYYY)
Contributors:
Many thanks to TWRP's developers for the support on building this recovery.
Special thanks to CaptainThrowback, Bigbiff and Dees_Troy on TWRP-freenode and Ashyx on xda-developers.
Please post any bugs you encounter. I will try to fix any issues that come up.

Thanks for the work and sharing. I'm excited to try. Having root would be great, but I'd also like to be able to make voice calls ( using bluetooth as the built-in speaker & microphone aren't adequate ). Do you think this is possible. What changes, if any, are required to have work with T397 Tab Active 2 ( US variant ) ? I'm sure that it's mobile frequencies are different than what the euro-spec'd T395, but otherwise I think identical.
Slomo

slomo2 said:
Thanks for the work and sharing. I'm excited to try. Having root would be great, but I'd also like to be able to make voice calls ( using bluetooth as the built-in speaker & microphone aren't adequate ). Do you think this is possible. What changes, if any, are required to have work with T397 Tab Active 2 ( US variant ) ? I'm sure that it's mobile frequencies are different than what the euro-spec'd T395, but otherwise I think identical.
Slomo
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, Samsung has a nice repo of their source kernels for every phone Samsung sources
I guess we just have to validate some data taken from boot.img from the stock rom and then build the same with the appropriate source kernel.

Shedaim said:
Well, Samsung has a nice repo of their source kernels for every phone Samsung sources
I guess we just have to validate some data taken from boot.img from the stock rom and then build the same with the appropriate source kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had no idea the source was available for these devices, thanks for sharing. T397 source is in the repository. Let me know if there is something that I can do to assist. I've not compiled these sources although I've compiled other things. Possible to use this tablet as a phone with this ROM as stock T397 ( even after installing several different dialers does not dial ) ?

slomo2 said:
Had no idea the source was available for these devices, thanks for sharing. T397 source is in the repository. Let me know if there is something that I can do to assist. I've not compiled these sources although I've compiled other things. Possible to use this tablet as a phone with this ROM as stock T397 ( even after installing several different dialers does not dial ) ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't check the dialer thing, as I don't even have cellular network on my Tablet.
I'll try to build the recovery for the T397 later today, but you will have to check it I guess, as I have no access to that one.

Shedaim said:
I can't check the dialer thing, as I don't even have cellular network on my Tablet.
I'll try to build the recovery for the T397 later today, but you will have to check it I guess, as I have no access to that one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This will be great, let me know if I can help, perhaps document.

slomo2 said:
This will be great, let me know if I can help, perhaps document.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so this is a first try, so I believe it's not going to work, but who knows? we may get lucky.
Recovery for SM-T397 - Android 7.1.2
If it doesn't get installed or leads to a bootloop, I'm gonna need you to pull the boot.img from your device, or send me a link of the stock ROM if it's available.
Please follow the intsallation process described on the README file on the github repository

Shedaim said:
Ok, so this is a first try, so I believe it's not going to work, but who knows? we may get lucky.
Recovery for SM-T397 - Android 7.1.2
If it doesn't get installed or leads to a bootloop, I'm gonna need you to pull the boot.img from your device, or send me a link of the stock ROM if it's available.
Please follow the intsallation process described on the README file on the github repository
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! Successfully installed. I found this video helpful for this generation of Samsung device and learning how to navigate recovery and download modes. I disabled auto-reboot in ODIN per your instructions, but it wasn't clear to me how to power-off after download so as to be able to go into recovery without booting so after adequate time I just pulled the battery. I'll spend the evening playing with things and report back, but so far everything seems to be working
---------- Post added at 11:27 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:15 PM ----------
slomo2 said:
Thank you! Successfully installed. I found this video helpful for this generation of Samsung device and learning how to navigate recovery and download modes. I disabled auto-reboot in ODIN per your instructions, but it wasn't clear to me how to power-off after download so as to be able to go into recovery without booting so after adequate time I just pulled the battery. I'll spend the evening playing with things and report back, but so far everything seems to be working
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One thing I notice, 7.1.1 is what was/is installed on my tablet now. Not sure what version of Android available on Samsung Opensource or how to check it, but I suspect it is the same since nothing has been pushed OTA.

7.1.1 is what The T397U should have already been on before you started. Mine is and I have not installed this recovery as of yet. Just wanted to let you know it's where it should be.

slomo2 said:
Thank you! Successfully installed. I found this video helpful for this generation of Samsung device and learning how to navigate recovery and download modes. I disabled auto-reboot in ODIN per your instructions, but it wasn't clear to me how to power-off after download so as to be able to go into recovery without booting so after adequate time I just pulled the battery. I'll spend the evening playing with things and report back, but so far everything seems to be working
---------- Post added at 11:27 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:15 PM ----------
One thing I notice, 7.1.1 is what was/is installed on my tablet now. Not sure what version of Android available on Samsung Opensource or how to check it, but I suspect it is the same since nothing has been pushed OTA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome. I really had my doubts being it the first build and all. I guess, there aren't really any major differences.
If it's possible, can you go through the TWRP checklist here
Some of the tests aren't really necessary, but it's a good checklist to go by anyway.
That way, I can officially add it to the OP.

Shedaim said:
Awesome. I really had my doubts being it the first build and all. I guess, there aren't really any major differences.
If it's possible, can you go through the TWRP checklist here
Some of the tests aren't really necessary, but it's a good checklist to go by anyway.
That way, I can officially add it to the OP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for delay. I've done the following tests all with the expected results. The only thing I noticed compared to previous installations of TWRP that I've performed ( some years ago ) is that the load time of recovery seems long at 1:15. Also a message about "RECOVERY NOT SEANDROID ENFORCING" which I suspect is normal. Tablet has been working without incident. Thanks again.
Blocking checks
- Correct screen/recovery size
- Working Touch, screen
- Backup to internal/microSD
- Restore from internal/microSD
- reboot to system
-ADB ( yes, if this means being able to access from ADB while in recovery )
Medium checks
- Screen goes off (and on )
- F2FS/EXT4 Support, exFAT/NTFS where supported
- all important partitions listed in mount/backup lists
===> define important ? - depends on the device, i guess
= Assume we can still boot a recovery (aboot/lk is still there for fastboot), can restore everything left ?
- backup/restore to/from external (USB-OTG) storage
- Correct date
Minor checks
- MTP export
- reboot to bootloader
- reboot to recovery
- poweroff
- battery level
- USB mass storage export
- set brightness
- vibrate

Security Policy Updates should not be applied to this system ?
Since this is stock Samsung OS that is rooted I'm guessing this system is still SELinux "enforcing" so does this mean that I can/should say yes to Security Enhancements automatic updates from Samsung ? Any explanation or link on this matter appreciated.

Hey @Shedaim, thanks a lot for this recovery, would it be possible to release an update for oreo?

maddada said:
Hey @Shedaim, thanks a lot for this recovery, would it be possible to release an update for oreo?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, sorry for the very late answer.
I'm currently not working on Android and I've never tried on OREO, so my politically correct answer would be: "Right now there is no plan to work the same magic on OREO, but whoever wants, can try to use the device tree I created with a new official OREO kernel (didn't know they have one already)".
Anyway, keep checking the forum from time to time, I may have found the time to work on it
Links to the device tree and other tools used are in the main page of this thread.
Thank you,
Shedaim

I Pay 100$ for making my Galaxy Tab Active 2 booting when its charging
Hey guys,
i hope somebody can help me.
Im trying since 2 Weeks to make my Galaxy Tab Active 2 booting when its charging.
I try all the ways i found (fastboot, LPM change and Autoboot App) and nothing was successful.
So i hope to find with this way somebody who would help me to get the feature.
I need it because i installed the Active 2 on my Harley Davidson as my navigation.
And the problem is that i make a Novalauncher thats looking like the original Harley Davidson one and starts without a code.
So when i put the Tablet in the Mask i dont get a method to press to power button and when i make a method (hole trough the mask or something) then everybody can start up my tablet and use it.
So if somebody can help me with that i will pay them 100$ for helping!
you can contact me at [email protected].
thanks alot

Excuse me for a moment, but i have a Galaxy Tab Active 2 WIFI (sm-t390) and im looking for a custom recovery for it. All i can find for this model is the SM-T395 variant of TWRP,root, etc. Absolutelly nothing for the SM-T390? Does any one have any ideas???? Thank you in advance either way.

sCOTTN916 said:
Excuse me for a moment, but i have a Galaxy Tab Active 2 WIFI (sm-t390) and im looking for a custom recovery for it. All i can find for this model is the SM-T395 variant of TWRP,root, etc. Absolutelly nothing for the SM-T390? Does any one have any ideas???? Thank you in advance either way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used the methods and recovery here for my tablet which is a T397U...works flawlessly. The same should work for the wifi T390 you have aswell.

Flash process
I am new to the rooting process. This will be my first time. What is the actual flash process? How do I flash the rom on my tablet?

All the links are dead can anyone please post this recovery

i can Flash this twrp-3.2.3-0-gtactive2lte-7.1.2.tar, Odin says pass, but there is no TWRP. it boots into System. when i stop and boot to recovery, there is stll custom recovery from T395XXU5CSH2.
Any hints?