Does having my bootloader unlocked affect getting updates? I have no interest in installing custom roms(for now), and mainly just want root to block ads, install seeder to fix this damn lag, and possibly connect a ps3 controller to play games. Figured I'd just unlock and root. I didn't plan on installing cwm so I could still get updates straight from google. I know an update would just overwrite root, but not sure if the bootloader would affect it. My galaxy nexus I always installed custom roms so I don't know how the bootloader affected OTA's. thanks guys.
In principle it should not affect updates.
Have a look at a prior OTA update's installer script
./META-INF/com/Google/android/updater-script
The OTAs perform binary patching on individual files, one by one. (That is why OTAs can be so small.) Before they perform the patching, a checksum is performed on every file on the tab/phone targeted for patching. If even one of those checksums fail, the entire install is aborted.
In addition the version of the recovery is sometimes checked, too - so merely having a custom recovery can trip up an OTA if that type of assert() check is performed.
To put that in general terms, you could say that an OTA update will almost always succeed if you merely add things to a ROM and leave the stock recovery in place.
If you want to flash stuff without altering the stock recovery just use a soft boot of a custom recovery, e.g. "fastboot boot custom-recovery-image-file.img"
If an OTA fails, don't get scared - you can simply unpack it, modify the updater-script file to remove the failing assert(), re-zip it and flash it. This would need to be done with a custom recovery, though as the modified OTA would no longer be correctly signed.
HTH
Yes but don't remove any of the Google apps that come preinstalled, don't edit the build prop, and that might be it.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
BrianDigital said:
Yes but don't remove any of the Google apps that come preinstalled, don't edit the build prop, and that might be it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yep.
The most recent OTA had the boot image file as one of its patching targets, so it was also subject to checksum verification during the initial assert() sequence of "updater-script".
I guess that means that if you hook anything into the boot sequence that needs to be in the ramdisk, that will trip up the OTA, as it is pretty typical for OTA updates to diddle the kernel or ramdisk. I guess that if you want to stay on a near-factory base distro including new ota updates, that puts the onus on you to either
(a) check the installers of the stuff you flash to make sure the boot image is not being re-packed -or-
(b) maintain a chain of pure stock backup sequences: then you can then restore them, run the OTA patch kit on them, make a new nandroid backup, and re-run your custom flashes. Probably use TiB to restore your apps on top of that, too. Almost like an OS re-install sequence, frankly.
cheers
thanks guys! Does an update from google relock the bootloader? I'm guessing not since its a nexus and they're okay with us unlocking it but just wondering. Just trying to decide if its worth it. I feel myself using my nexus 7 less cause of the latest update. It's smooth once its running but turning the screen on after its been sitting, it take some time to get together.
tu3218 said:
thanks guys! Does an update from google relock the bootloader? I'm guessing not since its a nexus and they're okay with us unlocking it but just wondering. Just trying to decide if its worth it. I feel myself using my nexus 7 less cause of the latest update. It's smooth once its running but turning the screen on after its been sitting, it take some time to get together.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whoops (old timers disease) I said "bootloader" in that post above where I should have said "boot partition" or "boot image". (Now corrected.)
Updates typically don't touch the bootloaders. Interesting question though - if you replace a bootloader via fastboot, does it change the lock status? To that Q I don't know the answer from direct experience.
Maybe I'll give it a try. Ugh that's gonna be a lot of backup/restore ops.
In the meantime, have you seen a page with links to (older) *full* ROM install bundles that Google no longer has on their site? I only got a N7 in early Jan '13, so I don't have any of those older full-ROM+bootloader fastboot-based install bundles.
bftb0 said:
Whoops (old timers disease) I said "bootloader" in that post above where I should have said "boot partition" or "boot image". (Now corrected.)
Updates typically don't touch the bootloaders. Interesting question though - if you replace a bootloader via fastboot, does it change the lock status? To that Q I don't know the answer from direct experience.
Maybe I'll give it a try. Ugh that's gonna be a lot of backup/restore ops.
In the meantime, have you seen a page with links to (older) *full* ROM install bundles that Google no longer has on their site? I only got a N7 in early Jan '13, so I don't have any of those older full-ROM+bootloader fastboot-based install bundles.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah I haven't seen that. To be honest I've been so busy with flashing roms on my sgs3. I finally have settled down on a rom for my phone so I figured I'd give my nexus 7 a go. But I'd rather not be performing the whole backing up/flashing/modding on both. Its so much lol Plus my tablet I need to be dependable when I need it. That's why I hadn't planned on running roms, just basic root for blocking ads, etc. Before the last update this thing was so fast and enjoyable to use. It still is but its not to where it use to be. I was going to go back but I don't like knowing I'm not on the latest.
and mainly just want root to block ads, install seeder to fix this damn lag, and possibly connect a ps3 controller to play games.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seeder doesn't fix lag. Doesn't work. If your n7 is lagging then there is another cause.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
5.1.1 [DOK2] Setup [Debloated & Systemless Root] [Viper4Android][Bettery Battery]
I have seen a few people having issues with the DOK2 update and were looking for a step by step process of how to upgrade to the new firmware and optimize it to get goo performance. this thread will guide you through that process as well as link to the appropriate threads to download and get the needed files/add ons.
*****This process will wipe your phones internal storage and give you a clean install of the new firmware.
Step 1: Download the DOK2 firmware to your PC
There are a few places you can get this from:
Sammobile: N910T Firmware
Or XDA thread: Stock TW Firmware/Bootloader/Modem N910TUVU2DOK2 UNMODIFIED Mirror
(You will need the entire firmware not just the modem and baseband)
Step 2: Download ODIN to you computer
From ODIN DOWNLOAD: ODIN 3.10.7
Step 3: Odin Flash new firmware.
The download from Sammobile or Mega should be a .zip file. you will need to unzip that file to find the .tar file which is what you will use for ODIN flashing the firmware.
If you need help using Odin to flash the firmware check out this post on Android Central: Help Thread
After you have completed the Odin Flash the phone should reboot and come to the setup screen with your new firmware.
Step 4: Odin Flash TWRP
Download TWRP to your computer: TWRP Downloads
Specifically you want this file: twrp-2.8.7.0-trltetmo.img.tar
Use Odin to flash TWRP recovery onto your device.
If you get lost you can check this tutorial: ODIN Help
Step 5: Reboot your device and setup
Once you have rebooted go ahead and set up your device. we will worry abou debloating and getting root after your device is setup.
Step 6: make a backup in TWRP
Once your device is setup make a TWRP backup of your setting
Step 7: Getting Root
*****Update: New SuperSu 2.64 beta. Works even better with Samsung phones. *******
You will need the latest SuperSU beta from the below thread.
SuperSU Beta Systemless Root
Newest version is 2.64
You will then boot into TWRP and flash that zip in recovery. This will give you "Systemless Root"
Systemless root allows you to use the stock kernel with SE LINUX enforcing, but still be able to use root apps. However this is not complete root. Some root apps that need to modify the system will not work. this is just a BETA root and is not final yet. check back to that thread for updates as they come out.
Once you have flashed the SuperSU zip reboot your device and verify your root apps are working.
Step 8: DeBloating TW.
There are 2 options for debloating TW.
Option #1: V3.90 Debloater V3.90 DeBloater
This option works on both rooted and unrooted devices. It really is a program that uases ADB to allow you to FREEZE system apps. This will not allow you to completely delete the application with Systemless Root.
The OP has a TON of detail and walks through this process of how to uses his program.
Option #2: [Script]Touchwiz De-Bloating Script and Gapps ~ 222 Apps
http://forum.xda-developers.com/not...pt-touchwiz-bloating-script-222-apps-t3258537
This Option removes 222 applications. It is a simple download and flash in recovery process.
****HOWEVER This will remove some functionality of the device READ the list of application before you flash to make sure there are not any that you use. The OP also has instructions on how to modify the script if you want some application to not be removed.
Step 9 Viper4Android on Systemless root.
Download the Viper4 Andriod/Beat installer
Viper4Android w/ Beat Audio
Flash the installer zip in TWRP and reboot your device
Download BusyBox Installer
BusyBox by Stephen (Stericson)
Install BusyBox
Reboot
install Viper$Android Drivers
Reboot
Download both the Viper4Android SU policy fixes
1.) ViPER4Android-supolicy.zip
2.) XM_V4A_Fix_by_androidexpert35.zip
Reboot into TWRP and flahs both of these. you can flash them at the same time just to them in the order above. [1 then 2]
Reboot the device and enjoy V4a.
******Also the Beat portion of the zip is a bit wonky sometimes. I have not yet been able to get it to opperate effectively, so you may want to disable it or freeze it with Titanium backup.
Disclaimer: NONE of these zips are mine. I am posting download links from my mega, because I pulled these files from 3 different threads and only one was from an OP. the main Viper4Android /beats install zip comes from here : [SUPER MOD][4.3+/6.0][ v6.2 ] XTREMEMusic™ THE SOUND THAT YOU'VE NEVER HEARD!
*************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
With this setup I have easily gotten more than a days worth of usage. I average about 5.5 hours of SOT and 24 hrs between charges. Normally I plug in around 20 hours with about 40% battery left.
*****These are all items developed by other XDA USERS. Please provide the thanks on their respective threads as well.
Thanks for taking the time for this write up. I don't have much experience with the new systemless root. I was wondering since the steps you mentioned above doesn't require any pre-rooted steps if there is any way of getting root without triggering Knox. I know in the past you can do this with Android 4.x, however since I'm currently on the latest boatloader there is no going back. I understand many don't care about Knox, but since my replacement and having Knox intact, I'd thought it might be worth my while since systemless root seems to be the future for new Android releases. Also I've been running stock for the last few months and the experience has been pretty good, though I miss some of the conveniences of having root.
James62370 said:
Thanks for taking the time for this write up. I don't have much experience with the new systemless root. I was wondering since the steps you mentioned above doesn't require any pre-rooted steps if there is anyway off getting root without triggering Knox. I know in the past you can do this with Android 4.x, however since I'm currently on the latest boatloader there is no going back. I understand many don't care about Knox, but since my replacement and having Knox intact, I'd thought it might be worth my while since systemless root seems to be the future for new Android releases. Also I've been running stock for the last few months and the experience has been pretty good, though I miss some of the conveniences of having root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method is for root only. It requires installing TWRP which is a custom recovery. That means you will have to unlock the bootloader to be able to use this method. Once you unlock the bootloader (by Odin flashing TWRP) you have already tripped Knox. Knox is no big deal from what I have heard though. I have not heard of anyone getting denied a new phone because it was tripped.
The two main reasons to use this method are:
1.) It keeps the system intact, which allows you to use apps that check for root. (eg. Android Pay, Some Bank Apps etc)
2.) It allows you to use the stock kernel from 5.1.1. Currently the only way to get root on 5.1.1 and up is to install a custom kernel. Which is fine, and there are two really great option available with Emotion and Beast Mode, but I find the stock kernel gets me the best battery life and is the most stable.
ALSO this will be the way root is done going forward. 6.0.1 has a bunch of system file locks that prevent much of the system tinkering from happening. Chainfire (dev who built SuperSU) has a nice right up about the system partition on XDA right now explaining why some of the system tweaks we were used to will not be possible in the future. so at the very least this is good practice for getting ready for the Marshmallow update.
ShrekOpher said:
Step 8: DeBloating TW.
There are 2 options for debloating TW.
Option #1: V3.90 Debloater [http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/software/debloater-remove-carrier-bloat-t2998294]
This option works on both rooted and unrooted devices. It really is a program that uases ADB to allow you to FREEZE system apps. This will not allow you to completely delete the application with Systemless Root.
The OP has a TON of detail and walks through this process of how to uses his program.
Option #2: [Script]Touchwiz De-Bloating Script and Gapps ~ 222 Apps [http://forum.xda-developers.com/not...t-touchwiz-bloating-script-222-apps-t3258537]
This Option removes 222 applications. It is a simple download and flash in recoevery process.
****HOWEVER This will remove some functionality of the device READ the list of application before you flash to make sure there are not any that you use. The OP also has instructions on how to modify the script if you want some application to not be removed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Witch option is the easier? :silly:
Avide said:
Witch option is the easier? :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Option #2 is WAY easier as long as you don't want to modify the script. You just download it to you phone boot into recovery and flash it. Then reboot. Takes 5 min.
ShrekOpher said:
This method is for root only. It requires installing TWRP which is a custom recovery. That means you will have to unlock the bootloader to be able to use this method. Once you unlock the bootloader (by Odin flashing TWRP) you have already tripped Knox. Knox is no big deal from what I have heard though. I have not heard of anyone getting denied a new phone because it was tripped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciate your reply. I was under the impression that the boatloader is already unlocked which is why we can flash a recovery without jumping through too many hoops. I know that a custom recovery trips Knox, but if there's a way to install the latest supersu through a utility such as flashfire or mobile odin, Knox won't be tripped.
I'm not really worried about warranty, just curious to see if it's possible to retain the integrity. Unfortunately both those options I mention requires the device to already be rooted which defeats what I'm trying to accomplish.
Hopefully someone will be able to figure something out in the near future.
Is it possible to use xposed with this?
So Shrek you've made the total move over?
I am holding off, althoguh i dunno for how long , because i need darker theme colors. do you know of any options?
masri1987 said:
So Shrek you've made the total move over?
I am holding off, althoguh i dunno for how long , because i need darker theme colors. do you know of any options?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unless there is a feature in 5.1.1 that you MUST have, I would wait. I don't find anything to be significantly better on 5.1.1 vs. 4.4.4, but the battery life is much worse.
chodaboy19 said:
Unless there is a feature in 5.1.1 that you MUST have, I would wait. I don't find anything to be significantly better on 5.1.1 vs. 4.4.4, but the battery life is much worse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well i'm on 5.0.1 right now pop rocks, so yeah i probably will wait since there isn't a particular feature... i'm using the DOK2 modem on COD6 rom right now.
Is there a list of apps you should disable via the debloater specific to the tmobile note4?
masri1987 said:
So Shrek you've made the total move over?
I am holding off, althoguh i dunno for how long , because i need darker theme colors. do you know of any options?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no dark theme option as of right now, really it's the only thing i miss.
Will Rickards said:
Is there a list of apps you should disable via the debloater specific to the tmobile note4?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The list of apps on the "Debloater Script" (Option #2) thread is a great reference.
I tried everything exactly as indicated by this great guide, but I am still getting very poor battery life. I give up, I don't know what else to do.
I have googled and tried all sorts of suggestions from others with the same problem to no avail. Google Play Services and 5.1.1 have made my phone a useless POS. I guess it's time for a new phone. LOL
chodaboy19 said:
I tried everything exactly as indicated by this great guide, but I am still getting very poor battery life. I give up, I don't know what else to do.
I have googled and tried all sorts of suggestions from others with the same problem to no avail. Google Play Services and 5.1.1 have made my phone a useless POS. I guess it's time for a new phone. LOL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you ever use power saving mode? If you are in the stock kernel it can help a bunch. The phone operates just fine on it, if you are going to play a game or something you just turn it back off, but while your phone is in your pocket or laying around idle it keeps those background running Google services in check.
I'm normally getting about 6 hrs of SOT and about 24 hrs between charges. Below is where I'm at so far today. With about 2.5 hrs of SOT.
ShrekOpher said:
Do you ever use power saving mode? If you are in the stock kernel it can help a bunch. The phone operates just fine on it, if you are going to play a game or something you just turn it back off, but while your phone is in your pocket or laying around idle it keeps those background running Google services in check.
I'm normally getting about 6 hrs of SOT and about 24 hrs between charges. Below is where I'm at so far today. With about 2.5 hrs of SOT.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I found the culprit after 2 days of googling and countless wasted hours. My specific problem was that Media process was running all the time which in turn was causing Google Play Services to run at all times.
The Media process includes 2 packages: Media Storage and Download Manager. Together they perform scanning and indexing of media files on the internal SD and external SD.
I came across this page:
http://geeknizer.com/fix-android-media-server-scanner-sdcard-cpu-battery-drain/
I did step #3 which states that having more than 1,000 files in a folder makes this process crap out. I reformatted my microSD card, then I copied back all the files to the microSD. Then finally I deleted most of the pictures so that no one folder had more than 400 images.
I rebooted my phone and it started to behave normally. The Media Process only ran for 5minutes and stopped. Google Play Services ran for 2min and stopped. I have been through 1 charge already and got 5hrs or so of screen time with heavy use, I was installing apps, configuring accounts, freezing apps with Titanium backup, etc.
Overall, it seems like I have a happy ending to my story, BUT I will post a followup if the phone craps out again.
EDIT:
How do you get it to show the time on battery?
Mine doesn't have that information:
Does anyone have any interest in me adding how to set up Viper4Android on Systemless root to this thread? Just curious if I should go through the trouble.
There is a new version of SuperSU 2.64:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64161125&postcount=3
Changelog:
20.12.2015 - v2.64 - BETA
- (systemless) Detect more boot image partition names
- (systemless) Blank partitions before writing to them
- (systemless) Ask to restore boot and recovery images on full unroot
- (systemless) Implement "uninstall competing superuser apps"
- (systemless) Samsung: prevent "KERNEL IS NOT SEANDROID ENFORCING" warning
- (systemless) Cleanup system install properly if present, fixes a number of possible bootloops
- ZIP: 6.0+: Detect firmwares that can reload sepolicy from /data and use system-based root on these ("allow init kernel:security { load_policy }")
- supolicy: Additional SELinux patches for M (reduced logging only)
- Update translations
ShrekOpher said:
The list of apps on the "Debloater Script" (Option #2) thread is a great reference.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Link to script isn't working. ..have another?
Sent from my SM-N910T3 using Tapatalk
AlexanderBlaQ said:
Link to script isn't working. ..have another?
Sent from my SM-N910T3 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should be working now. Thanks for the heads up.
Hello everyone,
My Moto X Pure edition is on the way on the mail. I'm already excited to root it and get twrp on it. However, I believe the phone will come with android lollipop installed, and I should get an option for an OTA update for android 6.0.
My question is: Should I root my phone and install twrp BEFORE receiving the update, or after? I plan to use WinDroid Toolkit to root my phone and install twrp (seems to be the easiest way) so have any of you done it while having 6.0 already installed?
Your phone will most likely arrive with 6.0 pre-installed on it. You can't take an OTA with TWRP installed. I can't answer the WinDroid question.
Edit: It will most likely come with 6.0 already assuming you purchased it from Motorola.
quakeaz said:
Your phone will most likely arrive with 6.0 pre-installed on it. You can't take an OTA with TWRP installed. I can't answer the WinDroid question.
Edit: It will most likely come with 6.0 already assuming you purchased it from Motorola.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for your help! It's good that the phone will most likely come with MM. Does Motorola also offer an OTA update to 6.0.1?
I wanted to flash a pre-rooted stock-based ROM because I thought it would be easier to get root. Although, my preference really would be to get the stock update, then just root that. The only reason I wanted to flash an already rooted ROM was because it seems kind of tricky to root it haha. Is the systemless root by ivcarlos the easiest way to root MM? Or have you perhaps found another way to root it on MM?
Additionally, just to make sure before I go on with anything: I should first let the clean phone upgrade to android 6.0.1, AFTER that I should unlock the bootloader, followed by installing TWRP and root, correct? @vertigo_2_20
Thank you for any help you can give me!
Henryy97 said:
Thanks a lot for your help! It's good that the phone will most likely come with MM. Does Motorola also offer an OTA update to 6.0.1?
I wanted to flash a pre-rooted stock-based ROM because I thought it would be easier to get root. Although, my preference really would be to get the stock update, then just root that. The only reason I wanted to flash an already rooted ROM was because it seems kind of tricky to root it haha. Is the systemless root by ivcarlos the easiest way to root MM? Or have you perhaps found another way to root it on MM?
Additionally, just to make sure before I go on with anything: I should first let the clean phone upgrade to android 6.0.1, AFTER that I should unlock the bootloader, followed by installing TWRP and root, correct? @vertigo_2_20
Thank you for any help you can give me!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IIRC, that's how I did it (OTA 6.0.1 > unlock bootloader > flash TWRP > root), though I did miss some things along the way that I only found out about after the fact, so I've included warnings about those thing here. Before I rooted, I read the following (and a LOT more, but these are the primary ones I based how I did it on):
ivcarlos' method, which you mentioned
And this, which is what I followed for rooting, though I don't remember why. I also had to use 2.62-3 as mentioned in the instructions vs 2.65 which is mentioned at the end as verified working, since it didn't work for me.
I ran across this as well, probably when 2.65 didn't work, and there's some good tidbits in there, worth reading through.
I also found this, but only after I finished rooting with the other method, and I didn't have the time to mess with it. I don't know enough to say whether it's really a better method or not, but something worth checking out if you have the time.
Just make sure you backup anything you want to keep (phone log, texts, pictures, etc) before unlocking the bootloader. I recommend SMS Backup & Restore with Titanium Backup as a secondary backup. Then, use fastboot to back up your recovery before flashing TWRP (I didn't know to do this until too late). Also, make sure you back up your /system and /boot partitions (don't need /data, since you're dealing with a freshly wiped phone from unlocking the bootloader, so nothing there to back up) with TWRP (and store the backups on the external SD card and/or your computer) as soon as you get TWRP flashed, before you do anything else.
Remember, anything you do that modifies /system can potentially break the "systemless" aspect of this root, thereby breaking Android Pay as well as the ability to receive OTA updates. Examples of things that might do this are AdAway (there's apparently a systemless file that needs to be flashed before installing it, which I didn't realize until too late, so mine may be broken already) and battery apps like GSam and BetterBatteryStats. I've yet to get an answer on if these really do break it, though. One that definitely will is Xposed, but I just found there's a systemless version, so when I get time I plan on trying that out. I think even if you do break it you can just a) reflash your backup (/recovery, /boot, & /system) then take an OTA and reflash TWRP and re-root, or b) flash the updated partitions from the OTA then reflash recovery and re-root. Of course, any of those things that changed /system (AdAway, Xposed, battery apps, etc), will probably be broken by this, and I believe they're supposed to be uninstalled first and reinstalled after.
I wouldn't doubt if I've screwed something up, so hopefully somebody can correct me on anything I did, as well as provide more information regarding the breaking of systemless.
vertigo_2_20 said:
IIRC, that's how I did it (OTA 6.0.1 > unlock bootloader > flash TWRP > root), though I did miss some things along the way that I only found out about after the fact, so I've included warnings about those thing here. Before I rooted, I read the following (and a LOT more, but these are the primary ones I based how I did it on):
ivcarlos' method, which you mentioned
And this, which is what I followed for rooting, though I don't remember why. I also had to use 2.62-3 as mentioned in the instructions vs 2.65 which is mentioned at the end as verified working, since it didn't work for me.
I ran across this as well, probably when 2.65 didn't work, and there's some good tidbits in there, worth reading through.
I also found this, but only after I finished rooting with the other method, and I didn't have the time to mess with it. I don't know enough to say whether it's really a better method or not, but something worth checking out if you have the time.
Just make sure you backup anything you want to keep (phone log, texts, pictures, etc) before unlocking the bootloader. I recommend SMS Backup & Restore with Titanium Backup as a secondary backup. Then, use fastboot to back up your recovery before flashing TWRP (I didn't know to do this until too late). Also, make sure you back up your /system and /boot partitions (don't need /data, since you're dealing with a freshly wiped phone from unlocking the bootloader, so nothing there to back up) with TWRP (and store the backups on the external SD card and/or your computer) as soon as you get TWRP flashed, before you do anything else.
Remember, anything you do that modifies /system can potentially break the "systemless" aspect of this root, thereby breaking Android Pay as well as the ability to receive OTA updates. Examples of things that might do this are AdAway (there's apparently a systemless file that needs to be flashed before installing it, which I didn't realize until too late, so mine may be broken already) and battery apps like GSam and BetterBatteryStats. I've yet to get an answer on if these really do break it, though. One that definitely will is Xposed, but I just found there's a systemless version, so when I get time I plan on trying that out. I think even if you do break it you can just a) reflash your backup (/recovery, /boot, & /system) then take an OTA and reflash TWRP and re-root, or b) flash the updated partitions from the OTA then reflash recovery and re-root. Of course, any of those things that changed /system (AdAway, Xposed, battery apps, etc), will probably be broken by this, and I believe they're supposed to be uninstalled first and reinstalled after.
I wouldn't doubt if I've screwed something up, so hopefully somebody can correct me on anything I did, as well as provide more information regarding the breaking of systemless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your reply! I'll read the links you sent me, although from what I can see the "root done right" is for the nexus 6, and if it works for the moto x pure it doesn't seem to be overall that much beneficial over the systemless root.
What exactly is the effect of breaking the "systemless" aspect of the root? For example, if I install AdAway, what will happen? I didn't really get that from your post.
Perhaps after all this process, I'll write a how-to guide, heh
So according to your experience, SUPERSU 2.62-3 is the adequate version to use for android 6.0.1?
Thanks again!
Henryy97 said:
Thank you for your reply! I'll read the links you sent me, although from what I can see the "root done right" is for the nexus 6, and if it works for the moto x pure it doesn't seem to be overall that much beneficial over the systemless root.
What exactly is the effect of breaking the "systemless" aspect of the root? For example, if I install AdAway, what will happen? I didn't really get that from your post.
Perhaps after all this process, I'll write a how-to guide, heh
So according to your experience, SUPERSU 2.62-3 is the adequate version to use for android 6.0.1?
Thanks again!
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My understanding is that breaking it will render Android Pay inoperable and will make it so you can't take an OTA, though as I mentioned, it seems you still can by reverting back, it's just a LOT more work. But again, as I said, I'm not completely sure and I haven't been able to get an answer.
As for the supersu version, it doesn't really matter, because you'll just update it once you're rooted and booted into the OS. I just found that, despite what that post said, 2.65 did not work for me, so I had to flash 2.62-3 which did. Not a big deal, was just a little frustrating and scary when 2.65 didn't work because I was worried that I broke something and that the method wasn't going to work.
Edit: Good catch BTW on the link having to do with the Nexus. I didn't even look at what sub-forum it was in. At least it's one less thing to worry about for now, though I do hope it spreads to more devices, because we could always use more, not to mention better (assuming it is) ways of doing things.
vertigo_2_20 said:
My understanding is that breaking it will render Android Pay inoperable and will make it so you can't take an OTA, though as I mentioned, it seems you still can by reverting back, it's just a LOT more work. But again, as I said, I'm not completely sure and I haven't been able to get an answer.
As for the supersu version, it doesn't really matter, because you'll just update it once you're rooted and booted into the OS. I just found that, despite what that post said, 2.65 did not work for me, so I had to flash 2.62-3 which did. Not a big deal, was just a little frustrating and scary when 2.65 didn't work because I was worried that I broke something and that the method wasn't going to work.
Edit: Good catch BTW on the link having to do with the Nexus. I didn't even look at what sub-forum it was in. At least it's one less thing to worry about for now, though I do hope it spreads to more devices, because we could always use more, not to mention better (assuming it is) ways of doing things.
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Thanks. I am aware that you can revert back to lollipop, and do the update from there whenever you want to update to a newer OTA MM update. However, my real question is, what does it mean to break the systemless aspect? I know that it will prevent further OTA updates, but will xposed work as it should, etc? If I am rooting my device, it's really to get xposed. So, if it means that I must revert to an unrooted stock rom everytime I wanna update, then so be it. I just want to make sure that breaking the systemless root aspect will not make the ROM unstable. Will it?
Henryy97 said:
Thanks. I am aware that you can revert back to lollipop, and do the update from there whenever you want to update to a newer OTA MM update. However, my real question is, what does it mean to break the systemless aspect? I know that it will prevent further OTA updates, but will xposed work as it should, etc? If I am rooting my device, it's really to get xposed. So, if it means that I must revert to an unrooted stock rom everytime I wanna update, then so be it. I just want to make sure that breaking the systemless root aspect will not make the ROM unstable. Will it?
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I think you'll find all the info you're looking for and more in those links. But in summary, as I said, AFAIK the only consequence is breaking OTAs. It does not prevent you from using xposed, rather xposed is one of the things that breaks it. Systemless is so called because it roots without affecting the /system partition, therefore preventing the breaking of Android Pay and allowing OTAs. Once /system is modified (unclear if at all or just beyond a point), these two will no longer function. So if you "break" the systemless root by doing stuff that modifies /system (i.e. xposed, etc), you basically now have a standard (non-systemless) root, which simply negates the benefits it provides. But as far as I could tell, systemless is the only option anyway, so you just do it since it works and it's easy, then you either are careful not to break it if Pay/OTAs are important to you, or if you don't care about those then you just do whatever you want just as if you were rooted in the traditional way. But as I said, once I get the time, I plan to try out the systemless xposed, though it may not matter since I might have already broken it, but may as well, and maybe it'll mean not having to uninstall it when it comes time to take an OTA. If you play with it and figure it out, let me know.
vertigo_2_20 said:
I think you'll find all the info you're looking for and more in those links. But in summary, as I said, AFAIK the only consequence is breaking OTAs. It does not prevent you from using xposed, rather xposed is one of the things that breaks it. Systemless is so called because it roots without affecting the /system partition, therefore preventing the breaking of Android Pay and allowing OTAs. Once /system is modified (unclear if at all or just beyond a point), these two will no longer function. So if you "break" the systemless root by doing stuff that modifies /system (i.e. xposed, etc), you basically now have a standard (non-systemless) root, which simply negates the benefits it provides. But as far as I could tell, systemless is the only option anyway, so you just do it since it works and it's easy, then you either are careful not to break it if Pay/OTAs are important to you, or if you don't care about those then you just do whatever you want just as if you were rooted in the traditional way. But as I said, once I get the time, I plan to try out the systemless xposed, though it may not matter since I might have already broken it, but may as well, and maybe it'll mean not having to uninstall it when it comes time to take an OTA. If you play with it and figure it out, let me know.
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Once again, thanks. I reached the limit of thanks I can give for today, haha. I'm reading up much more on the process, etc. Just one final question, how often do the OTA updates come on average? I always like having the latest software installed, so MAYBE I can consider having an unrooted phone.. although that will be very difficult. I love my xposed. Anyway, I guess if updates only come about once a month, then rooting is fine. Not too much of a loss. I will definitely be making a how-to guide once I'm done with all of this! (and once my device arrives)
Henryy97 said:
Once again, thanks. I reached the limit of thanks I can give for today, haha. I'm reading up much more on the process, etc. Just one final question, how often do the OTA updates come on average? I always like having the latest software installed, so MAYBE I can consider having an unrooted phone.. although that will be very difficult. I love my xposed. Anyway, I guess if updates only come about once a month, then rooting is fine. Not too much of a loss. I will definitely be making a how-to guide once I'm done with all of this! (and once my device arrives)
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I bought my phone ~5-6 months ago. When I got it, the MM update was waiting (released late last year). Probably ~2 months later, another update came through. Since then, nothing. So it looks like probably 3 maybe 4 a year. I'd rather be rooted with all the benefits than get a small update, though I'd really rather have both.
6.0.1 is not out yet although there is a reteu version posted which works great. Rooting is as simple flashing su 2.62-3 with twrp.
lafester said:
6.0.1 is not out yet although there is a reteu version posted which works great. Rooting is as simple flashing su 2.62-3 with twrp.
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I'll check it out. Do you mind sharing the link to that version just in case? I am very confused now though, because @vertigo_2_20 says he has 6.0.1, and you say you didn't get it. Perhaps location matters? Can you elaborate a little bit more?
And actually, I've just realized: I think I was looking at too many outdated posts perhaps with all the complicated root procedures such as the one by ivcarlos. The guide that amit.lohar made is very simple which is the one vertigo kindly shared in this OP. One final question @vertigo_2_20 (sorry for so many questions). Does the method by amit.lohar work for 6.0 anddd 6.0.1? I would assume so since they're pretty much very similar. What is your take on this?
I assumed I was on 6.0.1 because I received a system update after being on MM, so I don't know what else it could be. Though it does just say 6.0 in settings. Regardless, I only did it a few weeks ago, so if you're fully updated, you'll be the same as what I was. Even if not, I would think it wouldn't matter. As long as you do a back up before messing with things, worse case scenario is you screw something up and restore the backup.
Henryy97 said:
I'll check it out. Do you mind sharing the link to that version just in case? I am very confused now though, because @vertigo_2_20 says he has 6.0.1, and you say you didn't get it. Perhaps location matters? Can you elaborate a little bit more?
And actually, I've just realized: I think I was looking at too many outdated posts perhaps with all the complicated root procedures such as the one by ivcarlos. The guide that amit.lohar made is very simple which is the one vertigo kindly shared in this OP. One final question @vertigo_2_20 (sorry for so many questions). Does the method by amit.lohar work for 6.0 anddd 6.0.1? I would assume so since they're pretty much very similar. What is your take on this?
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No I don't get links for people... this forum is small and easy to read. Dev section has one pre loaded with franken and there are two threads in general.
Henryy97 said:
Once again, thanks. I reached the limit of thanks I can give for today, haha. I'm reading up much more on the process, etc. Just one final question, how often do the OTA updates come on average? I always like having the latest software installed, so MAYBE I can consider having an unrooted phone.. although that will be very difficult. I love my xposed. Anyway, I guess if updates only come about once a month, then rooting is fine. Not too much of a loss. I will definitely be making a how-to guide once I'm done with all of this! (and once my device arrives)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If receiving the OTA updates is something you really want, systemless root will allow you to get them with a lot less effort. The trick is knowing which of the apps that require root privileges will end up modifying your system. Avoid the ones that will and you can enjoy root with less work to get updates. If the only root required apps you are interested in modifies the system, then it will be a matter of what you value more.
Sent from my awesome phone!
That reminds me of another thing I haven't yet figured out. If /system is modified, I'm assuming the OTA will still show up and just won't install, but I wonder if it won't even show up anymore. Anyone know?
aybarrap1 said:
If receiving the OTA updates is something you really want, systemless root will allow you to get them with a lot less effort. The trick is knowing which of the apps that require root privileges will end up modifying your system. Avoid the ones that will and you can enjoy root with less work to get updates. If the only root required apps you are interested in modifies the system, then it will be a matter of what you value more.
Sent from my awesome phone!
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Click to collapse
Ahhh! I guess I'll just flash ROMS to update my phone then because I need my xposed Besides, after 6.0, if we want root, we can only get the systemless one anyway, right?
Also, I did not quite understand something about systemless root. If the root is 'systemless', then how can apps still edit the system? I've read up that after a memory wipe, the root will actually go away but what happens if I have apps that already modified the system? I just don't quite get how the apps can get into the system and modify it, if the root itself cannot do that because it is systemless. Am I getting the wrong idea here? I've read, and read, and read. I can't find an answer to that :/ According to what you have said though, if I were to get an app that modifies the system, then it would essentially *break* the systemless aspect of it, right? Therefore, it just becomes a normal root?
I feel like I'm going in circles now so I hope someone will be able to explain this for me or just point me in the right direction!
Systemless root does not mean root doesn't have access to /system, it simply means a way of gaining root access without modifying the /system partition, because if you gain root with the old methods, which DO modify /system, it breaks Android Pay and OTAs. Root still has access to modify system, hence why you have to be careful in installing apps, xposed, etc, because if they have root access, they can modify it, and if they do, your systemless root just became useless. The whole point is to NOT modify it so as to keep those certain functions intact, but it doesn't prevent you from doing so after gaining root.
vertigo_2_20 said:
Systemless root does not mean root doesn't have access to /system, it simply means a way of gaining root access without modifying the /system partition, because if you gain root with the old methods, which DO modify /system, it breaks Android Pay and OTAs. Root still has access to modify system, hence why you have to be careful in installing apps, xposed, etc, because if they have root access, they can modify it, and if they do, your systemless root just became useless. The whole point is to NOT modify it so as to keep those certain functions intact, but it doesn't prevent you from doing so after gaining root.
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My experience was rooting 5.1.1 on the new phone. I backed up at every stage. I tried a few roms, no big deal. I liked 5.1.1 better due to micro sd card usage. I stupidly allowed the OTA to attempt to install. I knew it would fail but hoped it would stop nagging. The result I did not expect was phone continually rebooting on its own, trying to complete the update. After it completed the reboot it would start to shut down and begin the reboot process again. I restored a backup and froze the Motorola Update app with Titanium Backup. Problem solved. Don't do what I did!
Why would you want to stay on L? M is so much better. Between Doze and permission control, you'll have better battery life and more privacy and security. Not to mention the increased security from having more up-to-date software. I'd recommend just taking the update.
In the last week I received my xperia x compact completely stock. First thing I do when I get a new phone before even activating it is root it. I was utilizing this guide to root my xperia x compact "Guide: Root + Custom Kernel + Clean rom + TA for X Compact" and I am stuck on the step where you are instructed to flash the modified XC-GenesisKernel-v1.04-nodrm kernel and SU. Flashing this kernel always results in a boot loop (Ive waited more then 30 minutes for it to resolve). I reflash the stock service exchange unit - 34.1.A.1.198 MM firmware to get back a functioning phone. The guide recommends:
"Run xperifirm and download the "service exchange unit - 34.1.A.1.198" firmware for posterity and latest rom for your region."
Am I supposed to use the most current nougat firmware for the following steps and only use the service exchange unit firmware if I need to downgrade to the lower original firmware? The thread for the XC-GenesisKernel states it is for nougat roms, which would explain a boot loop when I try to use the service exchange unit MM rom. Ideally Id like to stay on MM so that I can use xposed. Root and the phone being fully functional with no loss of camera and such is my main desire, xposed is secondary. I have a Backup TA of my DRM keys, the phone bootloader is unlocked, and I am looking for a little direction / clarification, any help in this respect is greatly appreciated.
Thanks
efaustus9 said:
help in this respect is greatly appreciated.
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Click the first link in the guide and read it.
XperienceD said:
Click the first link in the guide and read it.
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Thanks, I read through it and I see indeed the latest nougat firmware is what I should use in the later steps of tuten1000's guide and is the source of the boot loop I am experiencing.
If possible I would like to stay on marshmallow so I can used xposed framework. Are you aware of or can you recommend a kernel I can flash that will give me root, fingerprint, and use of most DRM functions while still on marshmallow.
Maybe you can try my guide using Magisk with full DRM, Xposed and root. But you need to flash back to MM first if you need Xposed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/x-compact/how-to/android-pay-safety-net-rooted-unlocked-t3610342
itandy said:
Maybe you can try my guide using Magisk with full DRM, Xposed and root. But you need to flash back to MM first if you need Xposed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/x-compact/how-to/android-pay-safety-net-rooted-unlocked-t3610342
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Excellent itandy, this this just what I had in mind. I never downloaded and flashed a nougat rom as xposed was important to me. In following tuten1000's guide I did flash the XC genesis kernel as well as SU in recovery. This resulted in a boot loop but a prerequisite in your guide is a /system partition without any trace of su. Since I reflashed the stock service exchange unit 34.1.A.1.198 MM firmware I should be good to proceed right?
efaustus9 said:
Excellent itandy, this this just what I had in mind. I never downloaded and flashed a nougat rom as xposed was important to me. In following tuten1000's guide I did flash the XC genesis kernel as well as SU in recovery. This resulted in a boot loop but a prerequisite in your guide is a /system partition without any trace of su. Since I reflashed the stock service exchange unit 34.1.A.1.198 MM firmware I should be good to proceed right?
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You're all good to begin with MM stock ROM.
itandy said:
You're all good to begin with MM stock ROM.
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It worked beautifully, thank you so much itandy :victory:
Anyway to get rid of the device is not secure screen on boot?
efaustus9 said:
It worked beautifully, thank you so much itandy :victory:
Anyway to get rid of the device is not secure screen on boot?
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This is a common request but the answer is no.
itandy said:
This is a common request but the answer is no.
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Okay, it would be nice to be rid of but it is a worthwhile trade off.
In your guide you mention a safety net, and installing xposed breaks it. What is this safety net and what is the draw back to breaking it? Am I locked out of certain apps or functions?
efaustus9 said:
Okay, it would be nice to be rid of but it is a worthwhile trade off.
In your guide you mention a safety net, and installing xposed breaks it. What is this safety net and what is the draw back to breaking it? Am I locked out of certain apps or functions?
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SafetyNet is the security checking API used by some apps like Android Pay and Pokemon Go to make sure your device is not tampered with. Simply put it makes sure your device is stock, not unlocked, rooted or modified. Magisk currently is able to bypass SafetyNet checking for root and some other "unwanted" apps. But Xposed will still be detected because it works in much lower system level. And with Magisk you can simply disable Xposed temporarily and reboot if you want to use, say, Android Pay.
itandy said:
SafetyNet is the security checking API used by some apps like Android Pay and Pokemon Go to make sure your device is not tampered with. Simply put it makes sure your device is stock, not unlocked, rooted or modified. Magisk currently is able to bypass SafetyNet checking for root and some other "unwanted" apps. But Xposed will still be detected because it works in much lower system level. And with Magisk you can simply disable Xposed temporarily and reboot if you want to use, say, Android Pay.
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ah very informative, thanks again.
I installed the xposed framework SDK23 in Magisk manager, it is showing up as installed under modules in magisk but xposed is not in the app drawer and I cant seem to access it.
efaustus9 said:
ah very informative, thanks again.
I installed the xposed framework SDK23 in Magisk manager, it is showing up as installed under modules in magisk but xposed is not in the app drawer and I cant seem to access it.
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You need to install Xposed Installer separately. Try this unofficial app.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/material-design-xposed-installer-t3137758
itandy said:
You need to install Xposed Installer separately. Try this unofficial app.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/material-design-xposed-installer-t3137758
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Haha once again you come through. You are really helping me get this all sorted with so little fuss, I am very grateful.
This is my first xperia experience, I am coming from a samsung s3 running a KK slimrom and things are a bit different on this device. Any other pointers or recommendations for this new phone? Is there a way to make the soft key bar transparent so I can actually utilize the full 4.6"?
efaustus9 said:
Haha once again you come through. You are really helping me get this all sorted with so little fuss, I am very grateful.
This is my first xperia experience, I am coming from a samsung s3 running a KK slimrom and things are a bit different on this device. Any other pointers or recommendations for this new phone? Is there a way to make the soft key bar transparent so I can actually utilize the full 4.6"?
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I remember there're mods (maybe Xposed modules) to make the navbar autohide. Maybe you'd also like to check out my navbar Xposed module. See my signature.
itandy said:
I remember there're mods (maybe Xposed modules) to make the navbar autohide. Maybe you'd also like to check out my navbar Xposed module. See my signature.
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Great, I will definitely check out your app. Ideally Id like to mimic what I believe is called the "immersive mode" in supported apps. In this mode the app takes up the full screen and the icons are replaced with three persistent minimal dots.