Database Users

[Q] Benefits to a Nougat Upgrade?

The A7U with MM (as I have modified it) has been very satisfactory, but I continue to debate over the upgrade to N7.0.
I did try some early Nougat versions on the old Nexus 5 and a Samsung tablet and ended up reverting back due to various performance issues, but that was a while ago.
Also, some here have reported problems either with the process or with the function of the end resut, so I am looking for some recommendations pro or con about making the move to B15.
Thanks

amphi66 said:
The A7U with MM (as I have modified it) has been very satisfactory, but I continue to debate over the upgrade to N7.0.
I did try some early Nougat versions on the old Nexus 5 and a Samsung tablet and ended up reverting back due to various performance issues, but that was a while ago.
Also, some here have reported problems either with the process or with the function of the end resut, so I am looking for some recommendations pro or con about making the move to B15.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on N and the only reason im on N is because ZTE fixed the VoLTE and its not roaming on Verizon any more. Pretty much works as it should and acts just like a Verizon device which is impressive, because we never get to play with unlocked devices on Verizon.
Now to the actual B15 stuff. Its a bit more laggy then MM and a few apps are pretty much unusable on N. Those are WhatsApp and LinkedIn on my device. I think I've seen another one or two somewhere else.
Camera is definitely better for me. Battery is great for me but it was great before the update.
Pretty sure im forgetting a few things. Overall im happy with the device and even happier that VoLTE works now.
7.1.1 should be out soon, hopefully that takes care of these few issues.

All of this is covered in the nougat thread.

Seeing a higher build number in About Device

lafester said:
All of this is covered in the nougat thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your typical, cryptic response. I see lot of ROM threads and conflicting guides, but certainly no "Nougat thread". Can you offer a link?
Regards.

amphi66 said:
Thanks for your typical, cryptic response. I see lot of ROM threads and conflicting guides, but certainly no "Nougat thread". Can you offer a link?
Regards.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3552251
This is the thread that was started when nougat was released.
It mostly covers flashing issues but there is feedback as well.
You can also read the zte forum for lots of N opinions, probably more then anyone could ever need.
Personally I think its ok, but only with custom kernel to speed it up. Hoping 7.1.1 will be better.

lafester said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3552251
This is the thread that was started when nougat was released.
It mostly covers flashing issues but there is feedback as well.
You can also read the zte forum for lots of N opinions, probably more then anyone could ever need.
Personally I think its ok, but only with custom kernel to speed it up. Hoping 7.1.1 will be better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, hadn't seen it & gave it a read. I loaded Stock (rooted) 7.0 and found it fine. Perhaps a touch slower than MM, but certainly no noticeable problems (or benefit).
I had Substratum working 98% (including Android System) in MM so missed the darker theme. Also TB was unable to see its archive on the extSDcard, although worked fine when I moved it to the internal storage.
Also tried RR, but couldn't get Gapps to install over the ROM (TWRP errors: either unsupported device or incompatible ROM errors), so reverted back to B29 for now.
I saved a TWRP BU of B15 w/ all data for a starting point when 7.1 is released.

Oreo Update: Is there a way we can flash our Essential Phone to get 8.0?

HI,
I haven't been on here for years. Anyway, is there a way we can flash our phones to the most recent OS?
I've tried researching on here but didn't find anything. Thanks in advance.

The simple answer is no. Even though Android Oreo (8.0) has been officially released by Google it was only for the Pixel and Nexus Phones. Phone like the Essential made by other OEMs won't get the update until that manufacturer makes a officially ROM for their phone using the Android O code from Google. Hopefully since Essential uses the barbones stock Android ROM it won't take long for them to push out an 8.0 update. Another way to get 8.0 early would be to install a custom ROM built from O open source code from Google. And since we don't don't have kernel /source code from Essential yet and for that matter even TWRP custom recovery, it will be a little bit until we see custom Roms. Hopefully though Essential will either push out an update soon or release source code for the stock rom. Until that happens there will be no Android O. Sounds like we'll all just be patiently waiting to find out what happens in time.

Root in 8.0 - XA1 Ultra

Hi all, I wait like all of you the Oreo update, but with this, a little new question brings up in my mind... So, the root?
Yeah, I don't know how it works properly but in previous cases on other devices (always Sony and not) when I update the android version, the root disappear. Or am I wrong?
Btw the real problem is, in positive case, WHO will do it?
Because the developer who create it, like the recovery, for 7.0 (Janjan) has close the project... At this point it is right to update a rooted system and lost root?
Talk about.

Janjan hasn't closed it. He stated in his thread that he plans on releasing updates for Oreo

So always root and recovery? Or directly a rom?

He stated wait for Oreo, then he will get out recovery, and kernel. Then all u have to do is flash SuperSU or magistik. No custom roms from him as he doesn't have phone anymore.

Perfect! Rightly I think he need it too :highfive:
Thank you man!

BLU R1 HD Update V. 9.2

Hello, I just got the notification to update my Blu R1 HD, the version of the update is v 9.2.
Someone already updated? is stable?
Thank you

Yes it's stable, no changes except the April 2018 Android Security Updates.
I'm very surprised Blu is still sending out updates for this almost 2 year old device, that's better then some major brands!

Vulnerability said:
Yes it's stable, no changes except the April 2018 Android Security Updates.
I'm very surprised Blu is still sending out updates for this almost 2 year old device, that's better then some major brands!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't give them too much credit. They are just attempting to make up for the numerous security debacles that they had with most of their phones in 2016 and 2017. Plus the security update is from Google, not Blu.
Blu likely only pushed the update to stay on good terms with the FCC. Who recently put Bans on Huawei, and ZTE. Why else would they update a two yr old phone, when they cannot provide promised nougat updates for several phones.
They are not reputable, they published marketing literature, made claims on social media sites, and in interviews where they promised nougat updates for phones released in 2017 that came with Android 6.0
A year later no updates.
I understand that Miui 9 can be installed on this phone. If I can figure it out I will share the files here.

Will there be a modified version of 9.2 for people with rooted phones?
Thanks!

yaconsult said:
Will there be a modified version of 9.2 for people with rooted phones?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
put it out last week.
only did modified patch.
you need to be on fully stock v9.0 then flash this patch
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76455352&postcount=289

mrmazak said:
put it out last week.
only did modified patch.
you need to be on fully stock v9.0 then flash this patch
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76455352&postcount=289
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I am not stock since I am rooted and running xposed and removed ads.
So am I correct that to apply this update I should re-flash your 9.0 full ROM and then run your updater script before installing su and xposed and running the commands to delete the ads?
Thanks!

yaconsult said:
I guess I am not stock since I am rooted and running xposed.
So am I correct that to apply this update I should re-flash your 9.0 full ROM and then run your updater script before installing su and xposed?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Look at the last couple post on the modified stock romntjread. Confirmed installs of the patch from stock v9. They went the long way and "de-bloated, un-rooted, etc".
Re flash v9 then the patch should be fine.
8 still need to edit the first post over on that thread to add this patch.

Vulnerability said:
I'm very surprised Blu is still sending out updates for this almost 2 year old device, that's better then some major brands!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tsongming said:
Don't give them too much credit. They are just attempting to make up for the numerous security debacles that they had with most of their phones in 2016 and 2017. Plus the security update is from Google, not Blu.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess it's rather Amazon than Blu, since there are no updates for the retail ("non-prime") version...

lem22 said:
I guess it's rather Amazon than Blu, since there are no updates for the retail ("non-prime") version...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can buy a LeEco S3 for $89 it has 3gb ram,Snapdragon 652 ( 8 core processor) 32gb hard drive, 1080*1920 resolution, 3000mah battery and about 30 working custom Roms. We have 4 leecos in our house 2 LePro 3s and 2 Se3s.
I just sold one of my Blu R1s for $50, almost pays for an SE3. Blu should embrace the developing community and release the source code to these phones, imagine the respect they would get.
Sent from my LEX727 using XDA Labs

Hi, I don't know how to update my stock R1 HD, I had only updated it from the same cell phone to version 8.4 but it only indicates that there are no more updates available, how then can I put this version 9.2? thanks

Any way to remain on stock, but get the security updates?

I've use ROMs in the past, but never with the Essential phone. In fact my phone has run so well, I've never even factory reset it a single time, let alone put a ROM on it. But with Essential gone, I need a way to keep my phone secure.
I'm wondering what the best way to keep stock android (nothing wrong with stock) but allow myself to get the latest android updates as they come out. In looking at the ROMs there still seems to be some issues with bugs, and since this phone is my daily driver, I'd like it to be as stable as possible.
So is there:
1) A way to get the PH-1 on stock, but still get the important security updates somehow?
2) A rom available (even if android 9) that works for PH-1 that would be super stable but also get all new security updates?
Thanks in advance for any help.

holodude said:
I've use ROMs in the past, but never with the Essential phone. In fact my phone has run so well, I've never even factory reset it a single time, let alone put a ROM on it. But with Essential gone, I need a way to keep my phone secure.
I'm wondering what the best way to keep stock android (nothing wrong with stock) but allow myself to get the latest android updates as they come out. In looking at the ROMs there still seems to be some issues with bugs, and since this phone is my daily driver, I'd like it to be as stable as possible.
So is there:
1) A way to get the PH-1 on stock, but still get the important security updates somehow?
2) A rom available (even if android 9) that works for PH-1 that would be super stable but also get all new security updates?
Thanks in advance for any help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't want to be rude, but here's the answer:
1. None
2. None

chanh2018 said:
Don't want to be rude, but here's the answer:
1. None
2. None
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I could have sworn I saw something that basically said you can download the latest stock version (that includes security updates) and flash it every time there is a new update. But I guess I could have misunderstood?

holodude said:
I could have sworn I saw something that basically said you can download the latest stock version (that includes security updates) and flash it every time there is a new update. But I guess I could have misunderstood?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was the case until Essential went out of business - you could do OTA updates, or download and flash yourself. The stock security updates were only provided by Essential, and the Feb 2020 update was the last one for this phone...

holodude said:
I could have sworn I saw something that basically said you can download the latest stock version (that includes security updates) and flash it every time there is a new update. But I guess I could have misunderstood?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are correct: Android GSI. Info >here<

aleph23 said:
Android GSI
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And how would that be "remaining on stock", as per the OP?

holodude said:
I could have sworn I saw something that basically said you can download the latest stock version (that includes security updates) and flash it every time there is a new update. But I guess I could have misunderstood?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No way to stay on stock & get security updates (well you will get some direct from Google ie the Google Play System Update, the last one shown lower down this page
https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2020-03-01
and can be found in your settings under security, but its only a fraction of patches)
That means your best option is probably the Android 11 GSI when it's out of Developer Preview in a July (?) and hope it's bug free, else Lineage etc .... not that you want custom roms, sorry.

IronRoo said:
No way to stay on stock & get security updates (well you will get some direct from Google ie the Google Play System Update, the last one shown lower down this page
https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2020-03-01
and can be found in your settings under security, but its only a fraction of patches)
That means your best option is probably the Android 11 GSI when it's out of Developer Preview in a July (?) and hope it's bug free, else Lineage etc .... not that you want custom roms, sorry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Basically I'm looking for something safe and stable, whether it is ROM or otherwise. Right now I'm stable, but not safe. So you think my best bet is move to Lineage (to become safe) and then switch to the GSI when it is out of developer preview (and stable)?

From what I have read and asked here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/essential-phone/development/rom-evolution-x-4-1-69-t4073153
This ROM will give you what you are asking for as far as regular security updates are concerned. I have been waiting for Lineage to release an "OFFICIAL" version of Android 10 for our PH-1's but so far nothing. Also I would not mind going on Android 11 but then I do not think that will get monthly security updates either so I am thinking about trying this Evolution ROM out.... I have never worked with a phone with A/B slots so that is my only concern but after reading all the threads I am starting to understand how that works.
Hope this info helps you out.

holodude said:
Right now I'm stable, but not safe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Security updates are overrated. ?

SirDigitalKnight said:
From what I have read and asked here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/essential-phone/development/rom-evolution-x-4-1-69-t4073153
This ROM will give you what you are asking for as far as regular security updates are concerned. I have been waiting for Lineage to release an "OFFICIAL" version of Android 10 for our PH-1's but so far nothing. Also I would not mind going on Android 11 but then I do not think that will get monthly security updates either so I am thinking about trying this Evolution ROM out.... I have never worked with a phone with A/B slots so that is my only concern but after reading all the threads I am starting to understand how that works.
Hope this info helps you out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You & your big mouth! ?
https://download.lineageos.org/mata
(actually its been out a while, by the looks of it, but no mention here)
I'm the same boat as you, had hoped to flash LineageOS 17 months ago then move to Android 11 in few months time, guess it's decision time now.
---------- Post added at 03:31 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:23 AM ----------
holodude said:
Basically I'm looking for something safe and stable, whether it is ROM or otherwise. Right now I'm stable, but not safe. So you think my best bet is move to Lineage (to become safe) and then switch to the GSI when it is out of developer preview (and stable)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guess for stability & functionality it would have to be LineageOS.
Looks like May version is ver 17.1 (Android 10), not sure how this compares to previous version re bugs/working functions, but that means previous ver is already a month out of date on security )
edit: see this post also
https://forum.xda-developers.com/es...7-1-essential-ph-1-mata-t4066163/post82606687
Also DO NOT use the Essential USB cable & DO NOT relock boot loader!

SirDigitalKnight said:
From what I have read and asked here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/essential-phone/development/rom-evolution-x-4-1-69-t4073153
This ROM will give you what you are asking for as far as regular security updates are concerned. I have been waiting for Lineage to release an "OFFICIAL" version of Android 10 for our PH-1's but so far nothing. Also I would not mind going on Android 11 but then I do not think that will get monthly security updates either so I am thinking about trying this Evolution ROM out.... I have never worked with a phone with A/B slots so that is my only concern but after reading all the threads I am starting to understand how that works.
Hope this info helps you out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on EvoX the only thing tht is not t working very well, is tht if u fast forward or rewind on Netflix ur phone reboots, hopefully fixed next update, but I'm happy with this ROM, the touch lag is almost non existence for some reason, glad they managed to fix tht. Also L1 certification is still there. The 360 camera workes better in this Rom for some reason. The best part is the customization though, so much

IronRoo said:
You & your big mouth!
https://download.lineageos.org/mata
(actually its been out a while, by the looks of it, but no mention here)
I'm the same boat as you, had hoped to flash LineageOS 17 months ago then move to Android 11 in few months time, guess it's decision time now.
---------- Post added at 03:31 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:23 AM ----------
Guess for stability & functionality it would have to be LineageOS.
Looks like May version is ver 17.1 (Android 10), not sure how this compares to previous version re bugs/working functions, but that means previous ver is already a month out of date on security )
edit: see this post also
https://forum.xda-developers.com/es...7-1-essential-ph-1-mata-t4066163/post82606687
Also DO NOT use the Essential USB cable & DO NOT relock boot loader!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very strange that no one has started a new thread in the Custom ROM section about this... (This being an official release version of Lineageos 17.1) you would think it would be bigger news? There is still only an Unofficial thread... strange..
Anyway IronRoo let me know what you decide to do and how it goes... I am still on the fence as my PH-1 is currently working perfect on stock 10 but it is of course on the Feb 29th security patch... plus I haven't done a custom ROM install since my LG G5 but I hear it is like riding a bike... lol :silly::fingers-crossed:

SirDigitalKnight said:
Very strange that no one has started a new thread in the Custom ROM section about this... (This being an official release version of Lineageos 17.1) you would think it would be bigger news? There is still only an Unofficial thread... strange..
Anyway IronRoo let me know what you decide to do and how it goes... I am still on the fence as my PH-1 is currently working perfect on stock 10 but it is of course on the Feb 29th security patch... plus I haven't done a custom ROM install since my LG G5 but I hear it is like riding a bike... lol :silly::fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For LOS, I think we should wait until their server is back, and few more releases come out.
LineageOS 17.1 for Essential is so new, only couple releases, and still in updating state.

chanh2018 said:
For LOS, I think we should wait until their server is back, and few more releases come out.
LineageOS 17.1 for Essential is so new, only couple releases, and still in updating state.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, many will agree, though I'm OK with giving it a go but I need to buy a new high quality USB cable as kid damaged my Samsung one and have only a cheap 6" one which I'm not sure I trust to flash without bricking phone.

SirDigitalKnight said:
Very strange that no one has started a new thread in the Custom ROM section about this... (This being an official release version of Lineageos 17.1) you would think it would be bigger news? There is still only an Unofficial thread... strange..
Anyway IronRoo let me know what you decide to do and how it goes... I am still on the fence as my PH-1 is currently working perfect on stock 10 but it is of course on the Feb 29th security patch... plus I haven't done a custom ROM install since my LG G5 but I hear it is like riding a bike... lol :silly::fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just did a quick websearch and a few have tried flashing it reddit and here on the 16 thread, and it's suggested wait for next release (first recovery had issue, but now fixed, but next release of ROM should have a few fixes & Lineage build servers are down so not sure when new release will drop)