Database Users

[How to] Unrooted stock Lollipop for Slickdeals & Fatwallet users - the easy way

A lot of people (who just bought Amazon Warehouse 2014 Fire HDs) want to just install Lollipop without any other modifications or root. This is a simple guide to get there while avoiding any bricking :
1) boot your device, figure out the OS version
2) turn off wireless
3) if FireOS is 4.1.1 or less than 4.5.3, download & copy to Fire HD this file : https://kindle-fire-updates.s3.amazonaws.com/update-kindle-20.4.5.3_user_453011120.bin , hit Settings/Device Options/System Updates/Check Now , the device should upgrade to 4.5.3
4) once on 4.5.3, consider rooting & TWRP. If still uninterested, proceed.
5) Download & copy the 5.2.2 update file to Fire HD : http://forum.xda-developers.com/fir...-2-update-2-ota-capture-t3229844/post63410771 (1st post), , hit Settings/Device Options/System Updates/Check Now , the device should upgrade to 5.2.2
6) The end. If problems in Step 5), boot into recovery (hold Power & Vol+ buttons together during boot), and in recovery, do factory reset
Update: after running 5.2.2 version, you cannot downgrade to 4.5.4, 4.5.5, and the prior Lollipops (5.2.0). If you try, you'll get a brick.

Bump.
Given that Amazon has pulled the dev preview (Lollipop) now, this is a highly relevant thread.

If 4.5.3 < system version <=4.5.5 we should go ahead and follow your other guide ? Or will this apply for 4.5.5 as well[accept for 4.5.5.1 which bricks] ?

fizz1234 said:
If 4.5.3 < system version <=4.5.5 we should go ahead and follow your other guide ? Or will this apply for 4.5.5 as well[accept for 4.5.5.1 which bricks] ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This guide is without root, and is valid for any FireOS except for 4.5.5.1. It let's people skip the developer's preview request from Amazon. To get rooted Lollipop, the other guide should be followed.

bibikalka said:
This guide is without root, and is valid for any FireOS except for 4.5.5.1. It let's people skip the developer's preview request from Amazon. To get rooted Lollipop, the other guide should be followed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which other guide are you referring to? I was on 4.5.5 and installed the DP OS linked here, but Im having trouble getting Gapps installed so I was gonna go back and root, install TWRP and hopefully GAPPS will work.

Non-root-- went from 4.5.5. to side loaded 5.0 but with July build, not Sept build as listed here.
Then saw this thread and side loaded 5.0 Sept build and it worked fine.
I preferred July build to Sept build (looked closer to stock android) so tried to downgrade. Kindle would no longer side load July build as was earlier than sept. So I factory reset and used ADB to downgrade to 4.5.3. It successfully opened to settings and confirmed to 4.5.3 and wanted to OTA update to 4.5.5 immediately. I let it update (non root and not registered) and it bricked (kindle turned black, holding power reset did not fix, adb did not recognize).

conif said:
Non-root-- went from 4.5.5. to side loaded 5.0 but with July build, not Sept build as listed here.
Then saw this thread and side loaded 5.0 Sept build and it worked fine.
I preferred July build to Sept build (looked closer to stock android) so tried to downgrade. Kindle would no longer side load July build as was earlier than sept. So I factory reset and used ADB to downgrade to 4.5.3. It successfully opened to settings and confirmed to 4.5.3 and wanted to OTA update to 4.5.5 immediately. I let it update (non root and not registered) and it bricked (kindle turned black, holding power reset did not fix, adb did not recognize).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, this is a known issue. I hope you can return or exchange it! Amazon really dropped the ball on this one in terms of software quality.
After running Oct Lollipop on Fire (5.2.2u2), it bricks with 4.5.4 and later bootloaders, as well as with the bootloaders from the early Lollipop releases. So you would have gotten brick either way !!!

bibikalka said:
Yep, this is a known issue. I hope you can return or exchange it! Amazon really dropped the ball on this one in terms of software quality.
After running Oct Lollipop on Fire (5.2.2u2), it bricks with 4.5.4 and later bootloaders, as well as with the bootloaders from the early Lollipop releases. So you would have gotten brick either way !!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK might be worth putting in your top post this point so people know that if they ever want to downgrade, its better to use the 5.0 July build. Also I heard that if you use the 5.0 July build, you can downgrade safety to 4.5.3 but then must root and use TWRP if you want to upgrade from there, please confirm.

conif said:
OK might be worth putting in your top post this point so people know that if they ever want to downgrade, its better to use the 5.0 July build. Also I heard that if you use the 5.0 July build, you can downgrade safety to 4.5.3 but then must root and use TWRP if you want to upgrade from there, please confirm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To get root via 4.5.3 indeed you are better off downgrading from an older Lollipop, since those were non-bricking (but why do you need to touch lollipop if the device comes with 4.1.1 and you could go straight to 4.5.3 ???).
On the other hand, any Lollipop can be downgraded to 4.5.3 with no issues. Then, if you ever ran 5.2.2u2 (Sept or Oct build), your only options then 4.5.3 & 5.2.2u2 (the rest will brick).
Amazon made it such that margin for error is small due to the bricking caused by the downgrades.

bibikalka said:
To get root via 4.5.3 indeed you are better off downgrading from an older Lollipop, since those were non-bricking (but why do you need to touch lollipop if the device comes with 4.1.1 and you could go straight to 4.5.3 ???).
On the other hand, any Lollipop can be downgraded to 4.5.3 with no issues. Then, if you ever ran 5.2.2u2 (Sept or Oct build), your only options then 4.5.3 & 5.2.2u2 (the rest will brick).
Amazon made it such that margin for error is small due to the bricking caused by the downgrades.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure if its to much to ask from you, is it possible you can add something like below to your OP:
If current versions is xxxx, only downgrade to xxxx or upgrade to xxxx using xyz guide link otherwise brick. I don't think there are many combinations so the list should be short.

Amazon FireOS System Updates from 5.1.4 to 5.3.1.0 released.

Came out on July 14, 2016 10:30 PM. There is no bin file at this time.
Note: Don't try to downgrade from this. Might brick your FireOS. Need a report on it actually works or not first.
Cannot be rooted. Tested with NewKingrootV4.95_C149_B285_en_release_2016_07_15_105203.apk

Comment moved to different post. Sorry new to forum

Tip: If you log in on the Amazon it gonna try to update the system automatic. Don't log in then it gonna ask first after the download.

It wouldn't let me past the splash screen without logging in

Anybody knows how I can get 5.1.2 back on my updated 5.3.1.0. Fire?
I tried the Downgrade to Fire OS 5.1.2. Supertool, but all I get is the => Fastboot mode... screen.
When I restart again its still 5.3.1.0.
I am totally new to this, so I may miss something
Thank you for any help!

Venio2000 said:
Anybody knows how I can get 5.1.2 back on my updated 5.3.1.0. Fire?
I tried the Downgrade to Fire OS 5.1.2. Supertool, but all I get is the => Fastboot mode... screen.
When I restart again its still 5.3.1.0.
I am totally new to this, so I may miss something
Thank you for any help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't recall that anyone posted anything about the new release. You should just wait until the resident experts chime in with some guidelines.

fmc000 said:
I don't recall that anyone posted anything about the new release. You should just wait until the resident experts chime in with some guidelines.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will - I just wish I would have waited longer with the update, but it was brand new and said: update me now
Thx for any help/ Info

I used the 5.1.2 bin file and installed adb drivers on my windows computer. I used a program called minimal adb and fastboot. I opened minimal adb and fastboot, powered on fire by holding volume down and power until bootloader. Selected apply update from adb. Typed ' adb sideload' and dragged the bin file into the window of minimal adb and fastboot. Hit enter and watched it climb to100%. This was from 5.1.4 and 5.1.3. I do not know if it will work going down from 5.3.1.0. the fire is a piece of crap with the stock amazon installed imo

Venio2000 said:
Anybody knows how I can get 5.1.2 back on my updated 5.3.1.0. Fire?
I tried the Downgrade to Fire OS 5.1.2. Supertool, but all I get is the => Fastboot mode... screen.
When I restart again its still 5.3.1.0.
I am totally new to this, so I may miss something
Thank you for any help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is the date of your 5.3.1.0 FireOS ?
This thread is your friend :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/unbrick-amazon-fire-7in-2015-5th-gen-t3285294
You would try to sideload the 5.1.2 (the last version that's rootable at the moment). There is a chance the downgrade would brick (due to the possible higher version of the newer bootloaders ), so be prepared to send Fire back to Amazon if this fails.
One option is to write the entire new system, but that would take forever since those tools are slow ...

WARNING: Do not downgrade from 5.3.1.0. Brick the device if you do.

so now we're screwed and can't root a device? Has this ever happened before? What are the odds the first device I purposely buy to try my hand at rooting something and it turns out to be unrootable after I brick the first one....

The ROM image for FireOS 5.3.1.0 has now been published on the Fire (5th Generation) Software Updates page. The filename is update-kindle-global-37.5.5.2_user_552153420.bin
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201830180
Determine your software version
Determine the current software version on your Fire tablet before downloading and installing a software update.
Swipe down from the top of the screen and then tap Settings.
Tap Device Options, and then tap System Updates.
If you have the latest software update, it should look like this: Your device is running Fire OS 5.3.1.
Download Fire (5th Generation) software updates
Click the link below to download the software update to your computer:
Download Software Update 5.3.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

fusion01k said:
so now we're screwed and can't root a device? Has this ever happened before? What are the odds the first device I purposely buy to try my hand at rooting something and it turns out to be unrootable after I brick the first one....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're replacement probably will not have 5.3.1.0 on it, but a lower version. So if I were you, I'd turn off my wifi router to be safe before turning on the device for the first time. Then turn on my new device, skip the wifi login step on the device, and check the version number. If 5.1.4 or below, you should be able to downgrade (if need be) and root. Then shut off OTA updates. Then you can turn on your router/wifi etc.

beezar said:
You're replacement probably will not have 5.3.1.0 on it, but a lower version. So if I were you, I'd turn off my wifi router to be safe before turning on the device for the first time. Then turn on my new device, skip the wifi login step on the device, and check the version number. If 5.1.4 or below, you should be able to downgrade (if need be) and root. Then shut off OTA updates. Then you can turn on your router/wifi etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the advice. I will check it out when it arrives soon.

beezar said:
You're replacement probably will not have 5.3.1.0 on it, but a lower version. So if I were you, I'd turn off my wifi router to be safe before turning on the device for the first time. Then turn on my new device, skip the wifi login step on the device, and check the version number. If 5.1.4 or below, you should be able to downgrade (if need be) and root. Then shut off OTA updates. Then you can turn on your router/wifi etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For those without a bricked device, just one on 5.3.1.0 and still want to root is it best to just sit tight then and wait on a work around?

jmorlin said:
For those without a bricked device, just one on 5.3.1.0 and still want to root is it best to just sit tight then and wait on a work around?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well there doesn't seem to be another choice. A "work around" may come tomorrow or never. Seen both scenarios play out.

bibikalka said:
One option is to write the entire new system, but that would take forever since those tools are slow ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@bibikalka what tools are you referencing here? And how to write entire new system?

beautiful3cellar said:
@bibikalka what tools are you referencing here? And how to write entire new system?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, that's not correct It looks like Amazon patched the hole that allowed AFTV2 tools to work. Since these tools don't work with FireOS 5.3.1, even the slow path is not available

bibikalka said:
Sorry, that's not correct It looks like Amazon patched the hole that allowed AFTV2 tools to work. Since these tools don't work with FireOS 5.3.1, even the slow path is not available
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFTV2 Tools works below OS 5.3.1 though?

beautiful3cellar said:
AFTV2 Tools works below OS 5.3.1 though?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the last version was 5.1.1. The tools don't work in 5.1.2 . Amazon replaces the preloader with each update, so they can fix it quite easily.

FireOS 4.5.5.2 is out; breaks root; how to block OTA updates

As of this posting two contributors running FireOS 4.5.5.1 reported being upgraded to 4.5.5.2 which breaks root and various side-loaded apps including Google Play Store. It is not known if 4.5.5.2 can be rooted and/or Safestrap v4 compatibility. Those running rooted FireOS v4 should block OTA updates to protect from unsolicited Amazon distributions.
How to disable OTA updates (source):
- Get a file explorer which has root access (I used ES File Explorer because it was already in the Amazon App Store but every other file explorer should work too)
- Browse to /system/priv-app/ and search for DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk
- Just rename DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk to whatever you like (Important: After renaming the file mustn't end with .apk)
- Profit! You can now access the internet freely without the fear of evil amazon updates
Edit: OTA updates on FireOS v4.x can also be blocked using the technique described in this post.

Davey126 said:
As of this posting two contributors running FireOS 4.5.5.1 reported being upgraded to 4.5.5.2 which breaks root and various side-loaded apps including Google Play Store. It is not known if 4.5.5.2 can be rooted and/or Safestrap v4 compatibility. Those running rooted FireOS v4 should block OTA updates to protect from unsolicited Amazon distributions.
How to disable OTA updates (source):
- Get a file explorer which has root access (I used ES File Explorer because it was already in the Amazon App Store but every other file explorer should work too)
- Browse to /system/priv-app/ and search for DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk
- Just rename DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk to whatever you like (Important: After renaming the file mustn't end with .apk)
- Profit! You can now access the internet freely without the fear of evil amazon updates
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which Users? and which apps? Just Google Apps? or are there many that some of us might be using atm ?

DBCAB said:
Which Users? and which apps? Just Google Apps? or are there many that some of us might be using atm ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ref: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kin...oot-how-to-install-google-play-store-t3339865
Relax - just block OTA updates and put yourself in the driver's seat. Then you get to decide if/when to upgrade, not Amazon.

Davey126 said:
Ref: http://forum.xda-developers.com/kin...oot-how-to-install-google-play-store-t3339865
Relax - just block OTA updates and put yourself in the driver's seat. Then you get to decide if/when to upgrade, not Amazon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I know how to block ota and all but was wondering if the update even exists and what it does , my mother has a stock kindle never rooted etc and hasn't received anything yet, cant find any info on it but ty for reply , and yeah i like being able to control my device , we all should be able to anyway without modifications, we paid for the device should be able do whatever we want.

I am from germany and got the update last tuesday

Kingroot not work on 4.5.5.2
Hi all,
I am new on the forum and very unlucky!
Yesterday my Kindle Fire HDX 8.9" 3rd gen was upgraded to 4.5.5.2 and I decided to try another way to enjoy my Kindle.
I red this forum and decided to install the Nexus ROM.
First pass was to root the device with Kingroot but it doesn't work (ended with error "ROOT FAILED - no strategy now")
So I think that the new version of firmware 4.5.5.2 CAN'T be rooted directly with Kingroot 4.9.6.
Bye
Davey126 said:
As of this posting two contributors running FireOS 4.5.5.1 reported being upgraded to 4.5.5.2 which breaks root and various side-loaded apps including Google Play Store. It is not known if 4.5.5.2 can be rooted and/or Safestrap v4 compatibility. Those running rooted FireOS v4 should block OTA updates to protect from unsolicited Amazon distributions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Tried and retired kingroot 8x. Did not work. What are some other things I can try?

AzizA MeelaS said:
Tried and retired kingroot 8x. Did not work. What are some other things I can try?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
4.5.5.2 is not rootable at present. Keep trying Kingroot from time to time.

Too late to block OTA! My Kindle Fire 7 HDX 3rd gen updated automatically to 4.5.5.2 and Google Service stops working and could not open Google Play Store, keeps crashing it. Could not login Google account, can't see Google Photos.
Kingroot 4.9.6 failed to root.
Hope can be fixed soon.

mxnerd said:
Too late to block OTA! My Kindle Fire 7 HDX 3rd gen updated automatically to 4.5.5.2 and Google Service stops working and could not open Google Play Store, keeps crashing it. Could not login Google account, can't see Google Photos.
Kingroot 4.9.6 failed to root.
Hope can be fixed soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At present the only solution is a risky downgrade to 3.2.8 followed by a controlled upgrade to 4.5.5.1. Instructions must be carefully followed to avoid bricking; all personal apps/data will be lost. Consider waiting for a root exploit which could happen tomorrow or never.

Any updates to root 4.5.5.2?

aaronkatrini said:
Any updates to root 4.5.5.2?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best option is to try Kingroot from time to time. The community will only know if someone reports success.

is this bad
I rooted on 4.5.5.1, blocked updates then turned system off. I turned it on in the morning to find it has reset itself. I looked for the update file in /system/priv-app, but it wasn't there. Is this bad?

Android Rom Guy said:
I rooted on 4.5.5.1, blocked updates then turned system off. I turned it on in the morning to find it has reset itself. I looked for the update file in /system/priv-app, but it wasn't there. Is this bad?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Obvious questions:
- what version of FireOS does it show now?
- still rooted?

i accidentally update to 4.5.5.2 too from a rooted 4.5.5.1
i'am so frustrate right now as there is no way to root this damn 4.5.5.2 version

n.fajira said:
i accidentally update to 4.5.5.2 too from a rooted 4.5.5.1
i'am so frustrate right now as there is no way to root this damn 4.5.5.2 version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can rollback to 3.2.8 and then upgrade back to 4.5.5.1, root and block OTA updates to prevent recurrence. Also possible to unlock the boot loader which opens the door to all custom roms for this device. Note 3.2.8 rollback carries a risk (permanent brick) if not executed properly. A summary of the procedure can be found here. Make sure you fully understand before attempting. Guessing 50% of those who start end up bricking their device by simply not following instructions.

Davey126 said:
You can rollback to 3.2.8 and then upgrade back to 4.5.5.1, root and block OTA updates to prevent recurrence. Also possible to unlock the boot loader which opens the door to all custom roms for this device. Note 3.2.8 rollback carries a risk (permanent brick) if not executed properly. A summary of the procedure can be found here. Make sure you fully understand before attempting. Guessing 50% of those who start end up bricking their device by simply not following instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i'am sorry i forgot to mention my device version is Kindle fire HD 7 soho. i know i suppose to be in other thread. anyway, you think i can follow the steps you mention above?

n.fajira said:
i'am sorry i forgot to mention my device version is Kindle fire HD 7 soho. i know i suppose to be in other thread. anyway, you think i can follow the steps you mention above?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Likely not. The specially crafted 3.2.8 rollback image was captured during a brief period when Amazon honored downgrade requests. It is device dependent and would probably brick a HD 7.

Davey126 said:
Obvious questions:
- what version of FireOS does it show now?
- still rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Version- 4.5.5.1
Still Have Root after rooting on 31/06/16 with Bigfoot 4.5.0

Android Rom Guy said:
Version- 4.5.5.1
Still Have Root after rooting on 31/06/16 with Bigfoot 4.5.0
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Suspect reset was random given many days have passed without further consequence.

FireOS 5.3.1.1 is coming - root 5.3.1 ASAP & disable OTA !!!

I've glanced at the updates for the latest Fire HD 8 2016 model, and it has version 5.3.1.1 already available :
https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=202073860
So if history is any guide, all the other Fires will see the same update real soon now ...
Use the latest Kingroot to root FireOS 5.3.1, and disable OTA !!!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/root-t3471289

How do I remove ota Updates?
I renamed 2 APKs now when I check for updates it reports "Failed" am I Fine?
I want to switch to CM12.1 but I am afraid to try the method for 5.1.2 someone said it is the same procedure but I am not yet srue.
and I need to pay for Super Sume I guess.
so At least can someone clear out how we disable ota updates? I don't trust PM hide method, Renamed some apk but I am not sure if it worked.

-Yami- said:
How do I remove ota Updates?
I renamed 2 APKs now when I check for updates it reports "Failed" am I Fine?
I want to switch to CM12.1 but I am afraid to try the method for 5.1.2 someone said it is the same procedure but I am not yet srue.
and I need to pay for Super Sume I guess.
so At least can someone clear out how we disable ota updates? I don't trust PM hide method, Renamed some apk but I am not sure if it worked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could use rootjunky's supertool but if it already says failed it should be fine

tonibm19 said:
You could use rootjunky's supertool but if it already says failed it should be fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks I'll go ahead and also apply rootjunkies supertool method, I wasnt sure if it gonna work on 5.3.1 so didn't try.
Just to make sure I am not letting it connect to internet, switching to CM12.1 will be the best.

-Yami- said:
How do I remove ota Updates?
I renamed 2 APKs now when I check for updates it reports "Failed" am I Fine?
I want to switch to CM12.1 but I am afraid to try the method for 5.1.2 someone said it is the same procedure but I am not yet srue.
and I need to pay for Super Sume I guess.
so At least can someone clear out how we disable ota updates? I don't trust PM hide method, Renamed some apk but I am not sure if it worked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really need to take a step back and review the documentation that has already been posted starting with the forum index . Tons of relevant material. The SuperTool should handle everything you need in advance of flashing a new ROM if that's your objective:
- SuperTool can disable OTAs, replace KingUser with SuperSU and perform a host of other useful tasks
- "renamed some apk" is not helpful; details matter
- don't need to pay for anything beyond the device itself
- if still worried about OTA updates turn off WiFi and keep reading on another device

Davey126 said:
Really need to take a step back and review the documentation that has already been posted starting with the forum index . Tons of relevant material. The SuperTool should handle everything you need in advance of flashing a new ROM if that's your objective:
- SuperTool can disable OTAs, replace KingUser with SuperSU and perform a host of other useful tasks
- "renamed some apk" is not helpful; details matter
- don't need to pay for anything beyond the device itself
- if still worried about OTA updates turn off WiFi and keep reading on another device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am aware of supertool, I was not sure if it gonna work on 5.3.1 or not and someone said he switched using super sume so it was paid.
I renamed otaverifier.apk and devicesoftwareota.apk
I'll go ahead and use supetool thank you.
edit:
I got an option:
1 block OTA updates from Amazon 5.0.1
2 block OTA updates from Amazon on 5.1.1 and 5.1.2
so this was why I avoided this tool, not sure which one to use and not sure if it gonna brake something or not because I am on 5.3.1
I'll go ahead and read .bat file.
edit2:
found these lines
files\adb.exe shell pm hide com.amazon.otaverifier
files\adb.exe shell pm hide com.amazon.device.software.ota
files\adb.exe shell pm hide com.amazon.settings.systemupdates
Renamed those APKs.
but the tool also have this:
files\adb.exe shell su -c "rm -r /system/app/otaverifier"
files\adb.exe shell su -c "rm -r /system/priv-app/DeviceSoftwareOTA"
files\adb.exe shell su -c "rm -r /system/priv-app/SystemUpdatesUI"
so these are responsible APKs, I missed out "SystemUpdatesUI" on my first try thanks to this tool now I know what do rename.
I must be safe now I guess, it is not going to download and replace those bcz I didnt use PM-Hide.
edit:
I also cannot find any option to convert from kingroot to SuperSu in supertool.
at least not in its menu.

-Yami- said:
I am aware of supertool, I was not sure if it gonna work on 5.3.1 or not and someone said he switched using super sume so it was paid.
I renamed otaverifier.apk and devicesoftwareota.apk
I'll go ahead and use supetool thank you.
edit:
I got an option:
1 block OTA updates from Amazon 5.0.1
2 block OTA updates from Amazon on 5.1.1 and 5.1.2
so this was why I avoided this tool, not sure which one to use and not sure if it gonna brake something or not because I am on 5.3.1
I'll go ahead and read .bat file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- devicesoftwareota.apk is the operative file; just make sure it does not end in .apk
- as noted in numerous recent posts follow the procedures for 5.1.2 with 5.3.1
- if you can read/interpret the .bat file then none of this should be a mystery; the SuperTool simply automates a number of relatively trivial tasks that can be performed manually if desired (taking nothing away from the SuperTool; it is a fantastic resource for a huge community of individuals who have benefited from the selfless individual who authored it; props to @tomstg, a.k.a. Root Junkie!).
- if you have a question, ask; just be sure you have done your homework first given the vast pool of resource that is already out there; no interest in repackging what has already been written; props to @sd_shadow who tirelessly collects information from contributors and and assembles guides for YOUR benefit.
- if still uncertain shelve the device for a few weeks until the dust settles given the recent (<48 hours old) discovery that 5.3.1 can be rooted

Can 5.3.1.1 be downgraded to 5.3.1.0?

Danny1976 said:
Can 5.3.1.1 be downgraded to 5.3.1.0?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unknown but assume not unless posted otherwise. Only way to know is someone tries it and scores success or a brick.

I got my Fire HD8 (6th gen/2016) and the update for 5.3.1.1 is available. Still hasnt updated, I turned it off now. I cannot root 6th gen HD8 and I dont know of any methods that prevent the OTA update without root. Help
Edit: ops, I fail at navigating the xda forum apparently. I didn't see im in the wrong section.

I guess a benefit of the having a low end device like the Fire 7" is that they receive updates later than other devices. So you are aware of problems related to rooting early.
Anyways I ordered a Fire at Amazon Germany that arrived today and was initially shipped with Firmware 5.0.1.
I wonder why they still ship out devices with such old firmware. But tht's good for us

sebr said:
I guess a benefit of the having a low end device like the Fire 7" is that they receive updates later than other devices. So you are aware of problems related to rooting early.
Anyways I ordered a Fire at Amazon Germany that arrived today and was initially shipped with Firmware 5.0.1.
I wonder why they still ship out devices with such old firmware. But tht's good for us
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know the drill - root and protect that bootloader before connecting to WiFi! Or take the express route and boot directly into fastboot via <power>+<vol-down>, fire up TWRP and have your way with a custom ROM. Bounce back if you need any help with procedures.

Yeah no worries CM12 already running on it. But what is different in Bootloader versions past 5.0.1? I thought the bootloader is locked anyways - regardless of what firmware version is used - and cannot be flashed.

sebr said:
Yeah no worries CM12 already running on it. But what is different in Bootloader versions past 5.0.1? I thought the bootloader is locked anyways - regardless of what firmware version is used - and cannot be flashed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
5.0.x bootloader allows a custom recovery (eg: twrp) to be booted from fastboot. Nothing like a true recovery to expedite flashes and recover from missteps.

Yeah.... I wasn't able to get KingRoot to work with 5.3.1.1 and now I'm on 5.3.2 and it still won't work. I just got this tablet about a week ago. I should have rooted it before I first connected to WiFi, but I received it as a gift, so I hadn't researched the process in advance and I wasn't certain that I wanted to mess with it. I usually root my devices, but I considered leaving this one unrooted... until it was too late. Sometimes, a little hesitation makes the decision for you.

ManWithCamera said:
Yeah.... I wasn't able to get KingRoot to work with 5.3.1.1 and now I'm on 5.3.2 and it still won't work. I just got this tablet about a week ago. I should have rooted it before I first connected to WiFi, but I received it as a gift, so I hadn't researched the process in advance and I wasn't certain that I wanted to mess with it. I usually root my devices, but I considered leaving this one unrooted... until it was too late. Sometimes, a little hesitation makes the decision for you.
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First I have heard of 5.3.1.1 and 5.3.2 for 5th gen tablets. Sure you have a 7" model (first released Sept 2015) and not the latest HD8 (released 2016)?

Davey126 said:
First I have heard of 5.3.1.1 and 5.3.2 for 5th gen tablets. Sure you have a 7" model (first released Sept 2015) and not the latest HD8 (released 2016)?
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That's probably because the smart people on here have already blocked their updates. Yes, I confirmed that a 7" tablet is what was ordered from Amazon. It also has 2015 stamped on the back and it claims to be a 5th generation tablet in the settings. It installed the 5.3.2.0 update last night at 11:18pm.

ManWithCamera said:
That's probably because the smart people on here have already blocked their updates. Yes, I confirmed that a 7" tablet is what was ordered from Amazon. It also has 2015 stamped on the back and it claims to be a 5th generation tablet in the settings. It installed the 5.3.2.0 update last night at 11:18pm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So now we know: FireOS 5.3.2 is in the wild and (apparently) can not be rooted w/KingRoot at present. What isn't known is whether 5.3.2 can be rolled back to 5.3.1 without bricking. Typically someone has to sacrifice their device (accidentally or intentionally) to determine that.
I'll create a new thread with you findings later today if someone doesn't beat me to it. Thanks for sharing.

FireOS 5.3.2.1 rollbacks

FYI - early indications 5.3.2.1 -> 5.3.1.0 rollbacks are problematic.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/fireos-5-3-2-arrived-t3500922/post70052733

Here as well
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/fireos-5-3-2-arrived-t3500922/post70061090

Bricked mine too. It shows up as a USB COM port and spits out "READYREADYREADYREADY" until it disconnects itself. I think this means it should be possible to restore 5.3.2.1 via sp flash tool (or maybe another serial loader). If we can get the right files
Attached a scatter file I found online for the MTK8127 chipset, which fire has. No idea if it's right. SP tool for some reason won't keep the com port open...

kaysond said:
Bricked mine too. It shows up as a USB COM port and spits out "READYREADYREADYREADY" until it disconnects itself. I think this means it should be possible to restore 5.3.2.1 via sp flash tool (or maybe another serial loader). If we can get the right files
Attached a scatter file I found online for the MTK8127 chipset, which fire has. No idea if it's right. SP tool for some reason won't keep the com port open...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
scatter files haven't worked, with any firmware versions
Sent from my sailfish using XDA Labs
---------- Post added at 05:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:47 PM ----------
see http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/development/unbrick-fire-7-5th-gen-downgrade-t3388747
Sent from my sailfish using XDA Labs

Yeah, I got the READYREADYREADYREADYREADY brick that I was expecting. Three tablets, got two of them rooted and OTA blocked, then had an emergency and the third apparently wasn't actually Off so it happily ****ed me.
There's never been a recovery from the READYREADYREADY firmware loader, I'd assume? Deciding if I should keep or toss this one. At least this ****'s cheap since we don't actually own it.

I just got an Amazon Fire and am new to this whole thing. Ultimately I'd love to root it, and install a different ROM. But in the short term, I'm just playing with installing the Play Store and turning off lock screen ads. Anyway, I just opened the package up today, and I let it update itself to 5.3.2.1 before I was aware that this might cause me trouble.
I did download the SuperTool here:
http://rootjunkysdl.com/files/?dir=SuperTool
I successfully installed the Play Store. I next tried disabling the lock screen ads, but the tool said I would need to root first. When I selected the option to do that, it asked for my FireOS version, but didn't give 5.3.2.1 as an option. So I'm afraid to go through the root process.
It sounds like downgrading to an earlier version will brick this. What about rooting it with a tool like the one I downloaded? Is that likely to cause trouble as well? Is there much I can do with this currently?

There's no known way (yet) to flash 5.3.2.1 back to something earlier, that's true (and some who got hit by a brick will confirm).
There's also no known success (yet) rooting this, but since KingRoot is evolving, there may be hope. There are multiple releases of KR around, and the cloud part (where the methods are kept) seem to be constantly changing - if you decide to keep the Fire, you may as well spend some time trying to get it rooted... KR versions 4.8.5, 4.9.2, 4.9.6 have been suggested; if you decide to use KR 5, you will have to remove it from the list of device administrators before replacing it with SuperSU - of course only if you're successful. We're all waiting for RootJunky to release a new SuperTool that will possibly automate this - ATM Nov 29 is still the latest version available...

Does the RootJunky SuperTool just use KR under the hood? I'll have to keep an eye on this. I don't mind getting my hands a bit messy on this, but I don't want to be blazing a new trail. I'm not experienced enough with it. I don't mind waiting a bit to get some hand holding.

komi_9 said:
Does the RootJunky SuperTool just use KR under the hood?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does:
Code:
$ grep -ri kingroot.apk .
./1-Amazon-Fire-5th-gen.bat:files\adb.exe install -r apps\Kingroot.apk
./3-Amazon-Fire-5th-gen-linux-mac.sh: sudo $ADB install -r apps/Kingroot.apk
SuperTool is a zip file - and the "magic" is done in human-readable scripts (bat or bash). Firmware bin files are zips too. Open them in your fav archive tool, and inspect what's inside.
tl;dr: ST installs whatever you put into apps/Kingroot.apk - watch out for Spelnig when replacing the version coming with ST with another one you have dl'ed from apkmirror.

hope this works! Thanks for the good work guys

dmerillat said:
Yeah, I got the READYREADYREADYREADYREADY brick that I was expecting. Three tablets, got two of them rooted and OTA blocked, then had an emergency and the third apparently wasn't actually Off so it happily ****ed me.
There's never been a recovery from the READYREADYREADY firmware loader, I'd assume? Deciding if I should keep or toss this one. At least this ****'s cheap since we don't actually own it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm fairly certain you can still write to the flash memory from that loader, just a matter of figuring out how. There's a python script that I think will work as long as you figure out what to write...

So..there is no way to Root or downgrade 5.3.2.1??

At this moment there isn't, sorry. But tools are not static, and there's even the chance that a future fireOS upgrade will be easier to root. You've got the choice to return your Fire while/if still on warranty or wait for better days to come.
Edit: I have read rumours that KingRoot would now be able to root 5.1.3 - this, of course, may be due to the usual number confusion (and 5.3.1 was meant).
On the other hand, the patch level of 5.3.2.1 might not include DirtyCow attacks yet:
Code:
ro.build.version.security_patch=2016-10-05
and indeed I saw RootJunky add some DC stuff to his download site... There might be something around the corner, indeed.

Confirm, even hardbrick if flash from 5.3.2.1 to 5.3.2

I just used the supertool on the same model Fire tab, on 12/27/16. Here's what I've learned:
1. Amazon will indeed remove offers/ads from the discounted Fire, without cost, if you ask.
2. Supertool uses KingRoot, as of my download date.
3. Supertool was not successful in removing ads, but did install the Play Store. It did prevent OTA updates, but the root didn't work for me, so I reloaded original firmware and of course it updated right away. Next time I would try to root after registering my Fire with Amazon.
4. It aopeared to me that the Supertool attempted a downgrade (5.1.1?) before rooting, so if downgrading will brick a device running 5.3.2.1, then I think the answer to the OP's question is "no".
related question: Knowing all the above, can I still re-try the Supertool option #1, and (re)install the Play Store and remove ads? (I bought 3 of them Amazon removed ads on 1 of them so far.))

rallison203 said:
I just used the supertool on the same model Fire tab, on 12/27/16. Here's what I've learned:
1. Amazon will indeed remove offers/ads from the discounted Fire, without cost, if you ask.
2. Supertool uses KingRoot, as of my download date.
3. Supertool was not successful in removing ads, but did install the Play Store. It did prevent OTA updates, but the root didn't work for me, so I reloaded original firmware and of course it updated right away. Next time I would try to root after registering my Fire with Amazon.
4. It aopeared to me that the Supertool attempted a downgrade (5.1.1?) before rooting, so if downgrading will brick a device running 5.3.2.1, then I think the answer to the OP's question is "no".
related question: Knowing all the above, can I still re-try the Supertool option #1, and (re)install the Play Store and remove ads? (I bought 3 of them Amazon removed ads on 1 of them so far.))
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- SuperTool does not attempt a FireOS rollback
- 5.1.1 refers to underlying Android build
- Amazon will (reluctantly) remove ads from ONE device registered to an account
- KingRoot works best if device is NOT registered with Amazon
- at present KingRoot is not effective against FireOS 5.3.2+

Thanks for responding, sorry for any misinformation, I'm quite a noob. So - if the supertool doesnt rollback, do you think I'd have trouble retrying the ad removal tool while running 5.3.2.1. ?

rallison203 said:
Thanks for responding, sorry for any misinformation, I'm quite a noob. So - if the supertool doesnt rollback, do you think I'd have trouble retrying the ad removal tool while running 5.3.2.1. ?
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Don't see any significant risks with rerunning but also don't think it will be fully effective on an unrooted device.

Is this probably the best thread to follow if I want to be notified when it's possible to root 5.3.2.1?

valzi said:
Is this probably the best thread to follow if I want to be notified when it's possible to root 5.3.2.1?
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I hope so, I'm certainly subscribed