Android Updates - Amazon version Moto g5 Plus - Moto G5 Plus Questions & Answers

Hi all,
I have been a member from XDA for quite a time but I never posted anything, so this is a first.
I have a Moto G5 Plus with the Amazon Prime version. I am happy with it despite the ads on the lock screen and the locked bootloader.
However, Do any of you have any clue on the delay Amazon deliver android updates? I have been checking the Android O coming updates and I know Amazon will have some delay while inserting the bloatware and ads to the update. So if any previous user of an Amazon variant phone has an answer, I would appreciate it.
Thanks.

Related

HDX 8.9 4th Gen. "SATURN"

So I bought the 4th gen HDX 8.9, aka "saturn", started looking around the forums, and to my surprise there is 0 development for this model. My guess is nobody was willing to upgrade to this device due to the fact there is very little difference from the previous model(couple of hardware upgrades). The only reason I purchased is Amazon gave me a no interest 5 month payment plan to buy. There are probably a lot of members(new members) looking on this forum and thinking their 8.9 is the same as what is being discussed here. There is not enough clear information to distinguish the two models. Now that Fire OS 4 is out there are no prefixes to the system version, ie: xx.4.5.2, it is just 4.5.2 across the board. As an example there is a thread in the QandA, here, where I see people calling the 4th gen "Apollo" and giving suggestions of downgrading or rooting using apollo software versions. NOT COOL. so as a warning:
BE VERY SURE YOU DO NOT HAVE A 4TH GEN 8.9 BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY MODIFICATION (ROOT/DOWNGRADE/SAFESTRAP) PROCEDURES POSTED ON THIS FORUM
Now to get to the real reason for my post. My 8.9 is currently on software version 22.4.5.2(SATURN) with wifi disabled. I would love to work with some other members to get this rooted and open the door for more development. I have tried the new method using the cve apk to no avail. I think it should work since it does on the older gens. And the only difference in the software versions would be hardware related tweaks. But, maybe I'm missing something. Any suggestions?
onemeila said:
So I bought the 4th gen HDX 8.9, aka "saturn", started looking around the forums, and to my surprise there is 0 development for this model. My guess is nobody was willing to upgrade to this device due to the fact there is very little difference from the previous model(couple of hardware upgrades). The only reason I purchased is Amazon gave me a no interest 5 month payment plan to buy. There are probably a lot of members(new members) looking on this forum and thinking their 8.9 is the same as what is being discussed here. There is not enough clear information to distinguish the two models. Now that Fire OS 4 is out there are no prefixes to the system version, ie: xx.4.5.2, it is just 4.5.2 across the board. As an example there is a thread in the QandA, here, where I see people calling the 4th gen "Apollo" and giving suggestions of downgrading or rooting using apollo software versions. NOT COOL. so as a warning:
BE VERY SURE YOU DO NOT HAVE A 4TH GEN 8.9 BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY MODIFICATION (ROOT/DOWNGRADE/SAFESTRAP) PROCEDURES POSTED ON THIS FORUM
Now to get to the real reason for my post. My 8.9 is currently on software version 22.4.5.2(SATURN) with wifi disabled. I would love to work with some other members to get this rooted and open the door for more development. I have tried the new method using the cve apk to no avail. I think it should work since it does on the older gens. And the only difference in the software versions would be hardware related tweaks. But, maybe I'm missing something. Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In terms of hardware only Chipset or to be precise CPU is changed rest all is same i believe...
For rooting try CVE Rooting apk for Apollo to my knowledge that should work & root device.
Due to locked bootloader and efuse your device future is limited to safe strap that needs to be built for your device yet.
There are some developments going on with APOLLO so that can be or should be implied to Saturn as well (atleast with little modifications)
onemeila said:
So I bought the 4th gen HDX 8.9, aka "saturn", started looking around the forums, and to my surprise there is 0 development for this model. My guess is nobody was willing to upgrade to this device due to the fact there is very little difference from the previous model(couple of hardware upgrades). The only reason I purchased is Amazon gave me a no interest 5 month payment plan to buy. There are probably a lot of members(new members) looking on this forum and thinking their 8.9 is the same as what is being discussed here. There is not enough clear information to distinguish the two models. Now that Fire OS 4 is out there are no prefixes to the system version, ie: xx.4.5.2, it is just 4.5.2 across the board. As an example there is a thread in the QandA, here, where I see people calling the 4th gen "Apollo" and giving suggestions of downgrading or rooting using apollo software versions. NOT COOL. so as a warning:
BE VERY SURE YOU DO NOT HAVE A 4TH GEN 8.9 BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY MODIFICATION (ROOT/DOWNGRADE/SAFESTRAP) PROCEDURES POSTED ON THIS FORUM
Now to get to the real reason for my post. My 8.9 is currently on software version 22.4.5.2(SATURN) with wifi disabled. I would love to work with some other members to get this rooted and open the door for more development. I have tried the new method using the cve apk to no avail. I think it should work since it does on the older gens. And the only difference in the software versions would be hardware related tweaks. But, maybe I'm missing something. Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The underlying exploits should still be viable on 4.5.2 for the saturn, the APK probably just needs some tweaking for other devices.
Anyone willing to test it? I just got my new HDX(got Best Buy to take it back and trade it out) and they gave me a Saturn.... urgh...
Same boat
I too purchased a new hdx 8.9 for the no interest payment system Amazon offers. I've been monitoring this forum for a couple of months, waiting for someone to crack into it. If there is any way I can help any devs working on the device/software, feel free to let me know. I have no development experience, but I don't mind testing and what not.
Whatever helps speed this process up.
I am of course running 4.5.3. Fun.
Terghan said:
I too purchased a new hdx 8.9 for the no interest payment system Amazon offers. I've been monitoring this forum for a couple of months, waiting for someone to crack into it. If there is any way I can help any devs working on the device/software, feel free to let me know. I have no development experience, but I don't mind testing and what not.
Whatever helps speed this process up.
I am of course running 4.5.3. Fun.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm waiting patiently also. tried every method under the sun on my 4th gen Saturn with no success. boy was I pissed when it updated on it's own. using saferoot installs the supersu app but it's not granting apps superuser permissions. tried downgrading etc. my next step is to open one of the rootable updates rename the binary etc. to see if I can trick it into accepting it.
I have a Saturn with "Fire OS 4.2"... Build Date of September 2014... Can I towelroot???
Scratch that, it updated as I was typing that
Anyone willing to tweak the apk? I'd test, but I have no warranty on this new one...
onemeila said:
So I bought the 4th gen HDX 8.9, aka "saturn", started looking around the forums, and to my surprise there is 0 development for this model. My guess is nobody was willing to upgrade to this device due to the fact there is very little difference from the previous model(couple of hardware upgrades). The only reason I purchased is Amazon gave me a no interest 5 month payment plan to buy. There are probably a lot of members(new members) looking on this forum and thinking their 8.9 is the same as what is being discussed here. There is not enough clear information to distinguish the two models. Now that Fire OS 4 is out there are no prefixes to the system version, ie: xx.4.5.2, it is just 4.5.2 across the board. As an example there is a thread in the QandA, here, where I see people calling the 4th gen "Apollo" and giving suggestions of downgrading or rooting using apollo software versions. NOT COOL. so as a warning...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm working on a Help thread/FAQs
[Help Thread][Fire HDX 8.9 - 2014] Ask Any Question, Noob Friendly
If anyone has some Hacks/Tricks they found that work with the Fire HDX 8.9 - 2014
Please post them there.
Thanks
Rooted Saturn waiting for Safestrap
Hi all,
I have an HDX 8.9 4th Gen (Saturn) device that was updated to 4.5.5.1. Rooted with Kingroot following directions in other parts of the forums. I also had an HDX 7 (Thor) that was updated to 4.5.5.1 and also rooted with Kingroot. I installed Safestrap 4.01 on the 7" device no problem and loaded the Nexus 4.05 custom Rom. Buttery smooth works like a charm. I am waiting on the update to FireOS 5 for the 8.9 as Kingroot is supposed to work to 5.1. Real question here is, will any of the fine Devs here be working to update Safestrap to work on Saturn 4.5.5.1 or will they be waiting for the FireOS 5 update, or doing nothing at all? I truly appreciate all the work they've done in keeping these great devices relevant, even if Amazon has not.
Fire HDX 8.9 (4TH GEN) hacks/work arounds
I just purchased a used Fire HDX 8.9 4th gen. from eBay and although it could not be registered with Amazon for whatever reason (lost, stolen, or ?) I hacked it to work as a regular Android tablet with Google Play Store and Alexa access.
NO ROOT REQUIRED
First I upgraded the Amazon firmware to the latest build by downloading it, renaming the .bin extension to .zip and side loaded it with the native Fire recovery. It loaded and worked fine.
Next I installed the Google Play store and related apps and they work fine.
Next I installed Youtub and it works fine.
Next I installed an e book reader (I like eReader Prestigio) and it works fine.
Next I installed a second launcher (Nova Launcher) and deactivated the native Fire launcher using Launcher HiJacker app and it works fine. Boots to Nova fast.
Next I downloaded the the upgrade to the Alexa app for android and it works even without a registered tablet.
Finally I downloaded and installed the Windows 10 application "Debloater" and disabled many native Amazon Fire apps that will not be needed because I use this device to watch Youtube videos, movies, surf the net, and to read and play on-line chess. It is a great tablet when hacked out of the Amazon echo system.
You can do this also .
Goodluck!
Oh the stock camera didn't work but the "open camera app" works fine.
bobcat131 said:
NO ROOT REQUIRED
Next I installed the Google Play store and related apps and they work fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you detail which versions you used? I'm assuming you installed Google Play Services before the Play Store. Which versions did you use? Did you have to install anything else before you could proceed to the next step?
Thanks!
I used the Open GAPPS 7.1 Pico

Motorola E3 problem.

I have a problem that I'm asking for help and support, as this is a question and answer forum.
I made a post a few days ago that the moderator decided to delete because people questioned the legitimacy of my problem.
Unfortunately, I have now had the same problem a second time.
I ask that someone please give me some advice and support rather than try to say my problem is a fabrication, made up or a lie.
13/01/2017
I received notification from Motorola that a 22mb OTA security update was available.
At the time, my device, a Motorola E3 XT1700 which was running system version S124 android 6.0, was ROOTED with TWRP, and was running various modifications such as Android N-ify and Pixel style nav bars.
I was puzzled I had an OTA update, I assumed being rooted removed that event happening, but I duly downloaded this update but as I had TWRP I could not flash the downloaded update.
I used "flash fire" from Google play to install the Update.
Installation went quite slowly with my device rebooting around 6 times.
I saw a new materialistic style boot animation and my device rebooted into android.
It quickly ran into serious issues with messages of every single Google app force closing, including Google now launcher and Gboard.
I had to skip the initial set up which I noticed was no different to normal.
I managed to get into settings and my build number and kernel versions were all the same as before.
The only difference I saw was my system version had gone from S124 to S131 and the android version was 7.0, but 7.0 is not available for this device.
The device kept force closing and rebooting every 2 minutes.
I had to contact a Motorola representative here in UK and they agreed to collect my device for examination and repair, but warned I would be liable for the cost.
We did argue over this, and eventually two days later, Motorola agreed to pay for the repairs as they said I had suffered "An exploitation" due to being rooted.
My device had been "reflashed" but I would no longer be able to receive any OTA updates.
They also told me there would be no android 7 for this device, but if I wanted to flash a custom ROM when one becomes available, that was up to me.
I also asked if I could flash a back up from an E3 power to my E3 if it went wrong again, they replied I could not because the E3 and E3 power are different devices and the firmware wasn't compatible with each other.
I do not know what any of that means.
Please help me to understand it.
21/01/2017
My device was returned two days ago, but the same thing has happened today.
Another 22mb update, but this time, my system version is going from S131 to S135 and my device has gone from an E3 XT1700 to E3 power XT1706.
The E3 is a European / American version where as the E3 power is exclusive to India and Asia.
The power is not available here in UK.
I have no reason to lie about this, and have provided screenshots from my device.
Please help me understand why this keeps happening?
That's all I want to know, how has my device became something else, a totally different model number?
How can I get another OTA update if Motorola have switched the function off and told me my new reflashed firmware has all the available updates?
Please will you help me understand this rather than accuse me of making things up or not abiding to the spirit of XDA by telling lies?
I have a genuine problem and fault with my device and want answers, not people calling me a liar.
I have already posted this on the Motorola Google plus community, where I explained I'm 16 years old, and when asking for support in my previous post here about this problem, it was deleted by the moderator for questioning its validity.......
I have since found out on Motorola's own forums this is a dodgy update that if installed can cause severe problems.
Many uses are advising not to flash this update.
I sorta already knew that.
Several users on Google plus pointed out to me they use XDA and have seen this problem talked about in the forums.
Someone directed me to Motorola's OWN forum where users are telling others to not download or flash this 22mb update because it breaks things!!!!
Finally, I want to share proof of my problem by showing the forum some photos and screenshots from my device.
For information purposes, let me list the difference between the 2 E3 models.
XT1700-E3 for Europe and continental USA
Single SIM
1GB ram
8 GB internal storage
XT1706-E3 POWER exclusive to India and Asia
Dual SIM dual stand by
2GB ram
16 GB internal storage
Now Look at the photos of my own devices box and packaging.
My device is a Motorola Moto E3 XT1700.
It has one SIM slot.
It has 1gb of ram
It has an 8gb internal storage.
After applying the update in question, in my about phone settings, my device is listed as a Motorola Moto E3 power XT1706.
I now have some blanked out settings for 2simcards that were not there before this happened.
Proof that something very strange has happened, and most of you think I'm lying.
I have several explanations from Motorola now and from users of Google plus as to what and why this has happened, and Motorola have admitted to being at fault in my case.
I'm happy with the reply I got from Steve who works at the repair centre who handled my case last week.
Let's see what explanations you experts come up with.
I know the answer now, this problem was down to three factors, one being human error in the way I applied the update.......But do you know the other 2 reasons?
I just wondered if anyone will enlighten me.
bubba1601 said:
Finally, I want to share proof of my problem by showing the forum some photos and screenshots from my device.
For information purposes, let me list the difference between the 2 E3 models.
XT1700-E3 for Europe and continental USA
Single SIM
1GB ram
8 GB internal storage
XT1706-E3 POWER exclusive to India and Asia
Dual SIM dual stand by
2GB ram
16 GB internal storage
Now Look at the photos of my own devices box and packaging.
My device is a Motorola Moto E3 XT1700.
It has one SIM slot.
It has 1gb of ram
It has an 8gb internal storage.
After applying the update in question, in my about phone settings, my device is listed as a Motorola Moto E3 power XT1706.
I now have some blanked out settings for 2simcards that were not there before this happened.
Proof that something very strange has happened, and most of you think I'm lying.
I have several explanations from Motorola now and from users of Google plus as to what and why this has happened, and Motorola have admitted to being at fault in my case.
I'm happy with the reply I got from Steve who works at the repair centre who handled my case last week.
Let's see what explanations you experts come up with.
I know the answer now, this problem was down to three factors, one being human error in the way I applied the update.......But do you know the other 2 reasons?
I just wondered if anyone will enlighten me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No one here is obligated to help you, despite this being a Q&A section. I'm glad you had a positive response from Moto support. Posting here in a demanding manner is not an acceptable way of asking for help. Again, the name of the site is xda-developers not xda-helpdesk.
Please be respectful at all times in the future and follow forum rules.
Thread closed.

Considering this phone, have a few questions

My Nexus 5X has broken for no reason so I need a new phone. I was going to get this one https://www.amazon.ca/Moto-Plus-5th-Generation-Unlocked/dp/B01MY57LLG but I'm hearing about adverts on the lock screen and stuff (even though it says Standard Version - Without Offers & Ads). Can these be removed? Can the phone be rooted? And is the ROM support good?
Thanks
Standard version does not have lockscreen ads. The only one with ads is the prime edition
Also came from Nexus 5X, this phone is really good and the is alot of ROM to chose from I currently run PureNexus
I was going to get this one https://www.amazon.ca/Moto-Plus-5th-Generation-Unlocked/dp/B01MY57LLG but I'm hearing about adverts on the lock screen and stuff (even though it says Standard Version - Without Offers & Ads).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amazon (at least in the United States) sells the G5 Plus either with Amazon Prime subsidized ads/offers for a reduced cost, or a G5 Plus that is NOT subsidized by Amazon Prime and does not contain ads or offers but is more expensive.
Can these be removed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you buy the non subsided version (ie, the Standard Version - Without Offers & Ads) then you do not need to remove the ads since they are not present. If you buy the subsided version that comes with ads then you can block/remove the ads. Search the forum for discussions on how to block or remove the ads from the Amazon Prime subsided version. For example here is one such discussion on how to block or remove the Amazon ads on the Amazon Prime subsided G5 Plus: https://forum.xda-developers.com/g5-plus/how-to/amazon-ads-removal-moto-g5-t3598515
Can the phone be rooted?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Standard Version - Without Offers & Ads CAN be rooted. Search the forum for threads on how to root the phone. For example here is one discussion: https://forum.xda-developers.com/g5-plus/how-to/how-to-root-moto-g5-plus-t3579659
The Amazon Prime subsided version CANNOT be rooted. More information on what Moto phones can be rooted (unlocked bootloader) can be found at this Lenovo/Moto link: https://mobilesupport.lenovo.com/us/en/solution/MS87215
And is the ROM support good?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again search the forum. Lots of discussion on ROM's for the G5 Plus. Start with the dedicated G5 Plus Development subforum: https://forum.xda-developers.com/g5-plus/development
Also came from 5x. On Stock as I only used to root for adblock but now I use dns66 and no need to mess with unblocking etc. Charging every other day is a bit of a change though
I too have a few similar questions, my LG G3 is getting a bit busted after 2 years of going strong, I was considering this device for a bit, in my country the model XT1685 is listed online the 32/3 model, so:
1. Is this model rootable?
2. Does it have development? Because I'm spoiled for choice of ROMs and Kernels on the G3.
3. In the development section the ROM threads do not mention which models do they support... does that mean all models use a similar ROM?
Thanks for answering in advance.
Cheers

Brand New Fire HD 8" 2017 — Anything I can do before first boot?

Hey guys,
I just hopped on the $50 deal Amazon was having for Fire HD 8" tablets, and I cringe at the idea of dealing with Amazon's proprietary bs.
Ideally I'd like to install a custom ROM, but it looks like that isn't an option regardless of my software version or generation. So, I'd really like to root at the very least, if possible.
Assuming that maybe the model ships with an OS version less than 5.6, is there anything I can do before first boot that could enable me to root or do something helpful?
I hope that all makes sense. Thanks so much for the help you guys.
I'm in the same situation with that $50 deal. Well I've actually booted mine up, but without internet connection, to avoid any updates from which I may not be able to backtrack. Judging from mine, it looks like these are shipping with Fire OS 5.6.0.0 which is dated as 28 Nov 2017. I gather that so far there's nothing in the way of unlocking to be done for this version, and that downgrading seems to risk the device bricking. I wish there was a separate xda section for the 2017 versions, it would save a lot of searching and disappointment
Honestly, unless you want to maintain the remote possibility of gaining root, just pay the $15 to Amazon to remove ads, install Google Play Store and Launcher Hijack and your launcher of choice, and it will feel as close as you're going to get to a standard Android tablet.
pastorbennett said:
Honestly, unless you want to maintain the remote possibility of gaining root, just pay the $15 to Amazon to remove ads, install Google Play Store and Launcher Hijack and your launcher of choice, and it will feel as close as you're going to get to a standard Android tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You see the date of the thread you replied to right?...

LG V35 + Android Security Patches + custom roms

Questions:
1. Are security patches a concern if I am not downloading 3rd party apps, not going to questionable websites (like porn), not doing any banking and mainly using the phone as an actual phone for calls, texts, and Whatsapp?
2. I came across this thread https://forum.xda-developers.com/lg-g7-thinq/how-to/guide-how-to-flash-stock-firmware-lock-t3820888 about flashing (near) stock firmware. Where do these files come from? Are they officially published by LG? And how do updates work if you flash your phone?
3. Is there any reason to not get the unlocked Amazon Prime version? People have stated that the Amazon apps can be disabled (though not deleted) and that Amazon no longer puts ads on the phones.
Backstory:
I've been an iPhone user since the 5 but my first smartphone was a Samsung Galaxy. It seems that Android has come a long way and I want to break out of the Apple ecosystem. I like the width of the V35's keyboard and those extra columns for apps is really cool. However, I do value Apple's security updates. I don't want my mail to be compromised. Given the questions above, would I be okay (with regards to cybersecurity) with getting a V35?

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