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The Galaxy S3 being my first android (or smartphone for that matter), I had a tough time trying to figure out how to root my phone, which methods to use and which ROM to install. So I've compiled this from other threads here on xda after 2 days of heavy reading, for other noobs like me
FOLLOW THIS GUIDE TO THE LETTER. DO NOT TOUCH ANYTHING, PRESS ANYTHING, CHECK ANY BOXES UNLESS TOLD TO DO SO OR YOU WILL END UP WITH A 600$ BRICK
[/COLOR]Rooting
So what is rooting? Rooting basically gives you administrator privileges on your phone, allowing you to install a host of programs that allow you to, for e.g. use firewalls, remove bloatware, change themes, install improved kernels, install custom roms with improved boot and memory performance, the list is really endless.
ROOTING VOIDS YOUR WARRANTY
However, it IS possible to reverse the process and cover your tracks, should you need to claim warranty. Read on to find out how.
Here is some good prereading to help you understand the basic flashing process and apps involved, even if it was written for the S2:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1125282
Before we begin, its a good idea to note down the details under Settings -> About Phone, for future reference. Also note that under Status, if you root your phone, it changes to 'Modified'. This is, as stated before, reversible.
This guide is for the GT-I9300 Model. If your model number has a suffix (other than T) this may not work.
Step 1: Flashing CF-Root with Odin
This is an easy method to root your phone and I haven't needed to use any other. It comes with the added benefit of also installing Clockwork Mod and CWManager which we will use to make backups, flash our first ROM and cover our tracks. For those of you who want to install the newer clockworkmod touch look here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1719744
Guide compiled from here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1695238
1. Install Samsung Kies and plug your phone into your PC via USB so that all the appropriate phone drivers are installed
2. Download and extract Odin3-vX.X.zip from the download link below
3. Download and extract CF-Root-SGS3-vX.X.zip ONCE (you will end up with CF-Root-SGS3-vX.X.tar
CF-Root for SGS3 v6.4:
http://download.chainfire.eu/196/CF-Root/SGS3/CF-Root-SGS3-v6.4.zip
4. Disconnect your phone from your computer, close Samsung Kies and any antivirus/firewall that may interrupt the flashing process
5. Run Odin, click PDA and navigate to your CF-Root-SGS3-vX.X.tar file
6. Power off your phone and then boot it into download mode (Hold Volume Down + Home + Power button until the screen fires up)
7. Note the warning and continue.
8. Connect the phone to your PC via USB and allow drivers to install.
9. Make sure 'Re-partition' is NOT checked in Odin
10. Click Start button and wait for android to boot
11. If you see a green 'PASS' message in Odin, everything went as intended. Done!
Step 2: Make a NANDroid Backup
This is a precautionary measure that backs up your phone's current state, should you have any problems with custom Roms. It is also a step in reversing the root process, should you need to claim warranty.
1. Power off your phone and boot into recovery mode (Hold Volume Up + Home + Power button untill the screen fires up). This starts up ClockworkMod.
2. Use Volume Up/Down to navigate and the Power button to select
3. Navigate to Backup/Restore->Backup and wait for backup to finish
4. Go back and select 'Reboot System Now'
5. Connect your phone to your computer and copy the backup folder from /sdcard/clockworkmod/backups/
6. Done! Now you can restore this backup by booting into recovery mode and hitting Restore!
Step 3: Installing your first ROM
After hunting for a good ROM that was fast and bloatware free, I ended up with the nightly build of the popular CyanogenMod 9 and I don't intend to go back!! I haven't had any problems with it whatsoever but if you prefer, you could instead install the RC version.
Note: The camera's flash feature cannot and will not work on any version of cyanogenmod until samsung releases source code for their camera.
Here's how to flash the ROM. This is also the basic method of installing any other ROM or kernel, though the ROM/kernel developer would give you more tailored instructions.
1. Download the desired version of CyanogenMod 9 from here:
http://get.cm/?device=i9300
2. Download Gapps from here. I used the 20120429 version. This may not be necessary for other roms.
http://goo.im/gapps
3. Copy both files to your phone's internal sd card
4. Boot into recovery mode
5. Select 'wipe/factory reset' and confirm
6. Select 'wipe cache partition' and confirm
7. Go to Advanced -> wipe dalvik cache and confirm.
Now we're ready to flash the ROM!
8. Select 'install zip from sd card'
9. Select 'install zip from internal sd card and navigate to the cyanogenmod file and confirm
10. When done, use the same method to install the gapps file
11. Do a wipe/factory reset again (needed for google calendar sync to work)
12. Go back and select 'Reboot system now'
13. The boot screen of the new ROM will show up. Wait about 10 seconds, remove the battery and put it back in.
14. Power on and setup your phone. Done!
More on CyanogenMod:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1714354
Step 4: Installing your modem
With CyanogenMod 9, people report that the first call made doesn't work, but every subsequent call will. If, however, you are still unable to make calls, you may have to install your phone's specific modem driver which you should have noted under Baseband version before we began (under Settings->About Phone).
1. Go here to download your specific modem and copy it to your phone's internal sd card:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1740061
In my case, it was XXLFB.
2. Boot into Recovery Mode
3. Install .zip from internal sdcard and navigate to your modem.zip file
4. Done!
Step 5: Covering your tracks
So your phone is broken and you need to claim warranty? Not with your rooted phone you don't! The S3 uses a flash counter that tells it how many times the phone has been flashed, and your rooted phone appears as 'modified' under status information. Here's how to cover your tracks.
1. Download your phone's stock firmware for your region from here and copy it to your phone
http://www.sammobile.com/firmware/?page=3
2. Download TriangleAway from the download link below or consider buying it from googleplay to support the hardworking developers, extract it and copy it to your phone:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1494114
3. Install TriangleAway by opening the .apk your phone's file explorer (Mine's ES File Explorer)
4. Run TriangleAway and select 'Reset Flash Counter'. Your phone will Reboot into a special mode. Reset the flash counter here and pull the battery immediately after reboot.
5. Boot into Recovery Mode and do a factory reset, cache wipe and dalvik cache wipe.
6. Flash the stock Firmware, reboot and setup the phone without any logins.
7. Check that Settings -> About Device -> Status is not 'Modified'
8. Done!
[
More on TriangleAway:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1494114
Optional: Upgrade to CM10
1. Make a Nandroid backup so you can restore if you dont like cm10/if its too buggy.
2. Download CyanogenMod 10, Gapps and your modem from here and copy it to your internal sd card:
http://www.clockworkmod.com/rommanager/device/i9300/developer/daniel.hillenbrand%40codeworkx.de?manifest=http%3A%2F%2Fdeveloper.clockworkmod.com%2Fdeveloper%2Fdaniel.hillenbrand%40codeworkx.de%2Fmanifest&name=codeworkx&deviceName=Samsung%20Galaxy%20S3
3. Boot into Recovery Mode and install cm10 then gapps then modem using 'install zip from sd card -> choose zip from internal sd card'
4. Do a factory reset/wipe then reboot
5. Done!
More on CyanogenMod 10:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1779578
Please point out any errors/suggestions so I can make the appropriate changes. Also report any issues for the benefit of other noobs out there
Admins: If my formatting is inappropriate I apologize but I'm by no means an expert at this
Credits:
Chainfire
Teamhacksung
willk22
UpInTheAir
and All contributors without whom none of this would be possible
Download
I'm afraid to root mine in case something goes wrong.
Thus is the best root guide I have read thank you so much , will do thus when cm10 is more everyday user friendly. Can not thank you enough.
Sent from my GT-I9300 using xda premium
Awesome guide mate.
I'm too big a wuss to flash a custom rom at the moment but this is pushing me to try it!
good thread man just moved from sgs2 to this and what an improvement! Cheers
I spent an entire day researching heavily before I was comfortable doing this and since everything is compiled here, I'm glad to see it having the same effect on you guys
Triangle Away is a payed app. Offered for free by chainfire on his thread for xda members. He specifically asked not to post it elsewhere. I think you are not permitted to attach it on other thread. At least ask for permission to do it.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Phil3759 said:
Triangle Away is a payed app. Offered for free by chainfire on his thread for xda members. He specifically asked not to post it elsewhere. I think you are not permitted to attach it on other thread. At least ask for permission to do it.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have posted this thread only on xda and like chainfire believe it should be available for free. People won't buy the app unless theyve tried it and know it works. But since you complained I've removed the attachment and people will have to visit chainfire's thread in order to download it.
Thanks for feedback!
Use Clockworks Touch
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1719744
Can be found here
Updated to include clockwork touch option.
Awesome stuff jbonetwo :good:
Question though? Rooted & installed Cyanogen 9 as above, followed all steps all rebooted and set up phone as if 1st time user. Now I've lost all apps, contacts, messages etc and nothing has synced?
How can I get all contacts back? Not sure why it hasn't synced as I've linked my Gmail account and sync is on?
Please excuse an Android noob....
Updated with CM10 Instructions
FinGerS o FuDgE said:
Awesome stuff jbonetwo :good:
Question though? Rooted & installed Cyanogen 9 as above, followed all steps all rebooted and set up phone as if 1st time user. Now I've lost all apps, contacts, messages etc and nothing has synced?
How can I get all contacts back? Not sure why it hasn't synced as I've linked my Gmail account and sync is on?
Please excuse an Android noob....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will lose your apps when switching to a new rom. One good way to reinstall apps is with titanium backup pro (batch reinstall).
If you had your contacts sync;d with google, syncing with your google account on your new rom should (supposedly) restore your contacts. I didnt have to do this though since i added contacts after installing cm9.
Thank you for the guide, worked first time for me
Hello All! As you know rooting is an important and first step for a person to step into developer world. Our Android devices have many methods to root them, so as our Xperia SP too.Today I am gonna tell you step by step how to root your Xperia SP in the easiest way possible.!
This is for JB 4.3 firmware 12.1.A.205. Root your phone in one click!
Steps for rooting
Pre Rooting Instructions
Backup each and everything on your Android phone as follows :
Backup all your important contacts
Backup all your important sms messages.
Backup all your important call logs,
Backup all your important media content manually. (Copy to your PC.)
Make sure that you read the instructions carefully and applied all precautionary measures. Let’s go ahead.
***WARNING***
I WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DEAD OR BRICKED DEVICES, ROOTING IS FOR YOUR OWN NEED DO IT AT YOUR OWN RISK, IF YOU BLAME ME I'LL LAUGH AT YOU! ALSO YOU WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Download DoomLord Advance stock kernel file (.elf file) (thanks to him) ----> http://doomlord.xperia-files.com/download.php?dlid=U1BfRG9vTUxvUkRfQWR2U3RrS2VybmVsX0ZXLTIwMV92MDM= (links are in blue mostly)
2) Download Stock kernel for your device C5302 : - [SIZE="5"https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6OcGH8yjAPOaFRJRFBHUVk4QXM/edit][/SIZE][/COLOR][/U][/B][/U][/B][/COLOR][/SIZE][/B]
[B][U]C5303 : - [B][U][COLOR="Blue"]https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6OcGH8yjAPONzdxR0k0T0k5MGs/edit
4) Download latest version of root exploiter from here (click on the lambda icon to start download) ----> www.towelroot.com
Install the apk to your phone. Make sure your unknown sources option and the development options is enabled and you have ticked usb debugging option. If not then go to settings then about phone , scroll down and click 5-6 times on the build version of the device and you will have development option available.
Make sure you are connected to internet, open the root exploiter you downloaded and click on the tab which says
make it ra1n
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and that's it you're done rooting
Now time to install SuperSU on your phone
Go to play store and search for SuperSU and download it. Open it. After opening it will ask to update binary script Select continue and now it will ask for installation of the file. One you will have as normal mode other one would be TWRP/CWM. We don't have CMW/TWRP installed for now so select Normal mode and application will update itself!
In case if you have rooted and installed any recovery manually install the updater script from recovery. Place it in SD card reboot into recovery and install it. Download here
Installing the Recovery (CWM for those who haven't installed recovery) (With Unlocked Bootloaders)
1) Download Flashtool to your PC -- http://www.flashtool.net/download.php
2) Install it and open it.
3) Go to where you have downloaded flash tool zip file and locate "driver" there. Open it and install the C5302/03/06 driver for your phone. After installation of drivers open Flashtool.
4) Connect your Xperia SP to your PC now. Make sure that the connection is up to the mark.
5) Hit the smart lightening button on the right upper left side and select “Fastboot Mode.”. Make sure that usb debugging is on when you connect to PC
6)On the right side, click on “Reboot Device into Fastboot Mode.”
(If this doesn’t work for you, manually put your device into Fastboot Mode and connect it to your PC. To do so, turn off your Xperia device and now connect to your PC while keeping the Volume Up key pressed. As soon your PC detects your device,the blue LED will turn on showing fastboot mode.)
7) Now click on “Select Kernel to flash”.
8)In the format selection, by default it will be “*.sin”. Change it to *.elf.
Now select the DoomLord Advanced Stock Kernel.elf file that you downloaded first of all and flash it.
9)This kernel will flash CWM recovery in your device. Disconnect your device now.
Turn it on, as soon as you see the Sony Logo, press Volume – Key 5 to 6 times and you should see the CWM recovery interface now.
Install Recovery on Locked Bootloaders
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2352920
Go to this link and follow the instructions (Thanks to Dimtrov)
That's IT! Congrats! You rooted your Xperia SP!
Stock Kernel you downloaded keep it as if anything goes wrong during flashing the DoomLord's Kernel you can flash your original Kernel back to your device!
If anyone wants Unlocking Bootloader Tutorial just reply below
Hit thanks! ;D I definitely helped
***My Works***
Most Beautiful and Mesmerizing bootanimation for Xperia SP! ---> [http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...zing-boot-animation-xperia-sp-t2831628/COLOR]
]Official Android L boot animation for Xperia SP in two variants PURE WHITE AND ORIGINAL BLACK ---> [http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...id-l-boot-animation-xperia-sp-t2833128/COLOR]
UP movie boot animation for Xperia SP! ---> http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-sp/themes-apps/bootanimation-disney-studios-movie-boot-t2832873
Request your bootanimations here! ---> http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-sp/themes-apps/boot-animation-request-desired-t2833559
EDIT : Animation compelete check this threadhttp://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-sp/themes-apps/bootanimation-playstion-2-boot-t2834872
It requires lots of time and fund in order to create these files. Me being alone as a developer is really impossible to manage alone.! Please consider a small amount of donation and help me as it can help me get my resources Thank you!
1. There's no need to change kernel to root
2. U can't install custom kernel with locked bootloader,u're ure giving instructions to brick phones
3. There's no need for towelroot to have internet acces to work
4. And talking about Towelroot, there's a thread with towelroot in this forum (about three actually)
5. There are recoveries for locked booleaders, also there's an index with it in general
5. What with all ad f.ly and ad links? are u trying to make money? put a link to the original thread or the links of creators if is not your work
6. Red is a really bad color to be the main in the thread
just sayin'
QBerto said:
1. There's no need to change kernel to root
2. U can't install custom kernel with locked bootloader,u're ure giving instructions to brick phones
3. There's no need for towelroot to have internet acces to work
4. And talking about Towelroot, there's a thread with towelroot in this forum (about three actually)
5. There are recoveries for locked booleaders, also there's an index with it in general
5. What with all ad f.ly and ad links? are u trying to make money? put a link to the original thread or the links of creators if is not your work
6. Red is a really bad color to be the main in the thread
just sayin'
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apologies on first part for letting adfly links on the tutorial wasn't aware of this rule.
Secondly towelroot gave error on my Xperia SP that "Please make sure you are connected to internet" that's why I advised to stay connected likewise SuperSU would take Internet connetion to download then why not to be on safe side
As considered with that custom kernel flashing thing thank you for correcting me! You saved a blunder mishap and prevented it from happening thanks a LOT!:highfive::angel:
I always give credits to the one who created the original stuff! I NEVER TAKE CREDITS FOR OTHER'S WORK
And RED is a color that is easily hilighted and people actually pay more attention to words written in red rather than any other color
Just Saying
:good:
Wut? Towelroot now needs internet conection? D: maybe sounds paranoic, but don't like xD
and one more thing, you can install SU from the zip w/o recovery, just open the zip with a file manager and look into 'common' folder, there's a Superuser.apk in there, install as normal APK, and you can update binaries with the zip w/o internet too (just open SU app and click normal, the same as you said)
QBerto said:
:good:
Wut? Towelroot now needs internet conection? D: maybe sounds paranoic, but don't like xD
and one more thing, you can install SU from the zip w/o recovery, just open the zip with a file manager and look into 'common' folder, there's a Superuser.apk in there, install as normal APK, and you can update binaries with the zip w/o internet too (just open SU app and click normal, the same as you said)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As for being paranoic check this out http://www.shadowandy.net/2014/06/geohots-towelroot-features-one-click-root-many-kitkat-devices.htm and read cooment of guy named Alin guess I am not the only one facing this issue
As far as SU is considered I told both the method stop daydreaming and check the post clearly
There is an existing thread for this.
[LB/UBL] Root Your device with just an app!
Please use this existing thread for further posting.
@Tech N You Please search for existing threads before creating new threads.
In case you have not read the XDA Rules yet here is a link.....
The XDA Rules
Thread closed
THE ULTIMATE NOOBS GUIDE TO ROOTING
Introduction
Hello there people!
I've always been a fan of helping others out and I thought this guide will be helpful to those who want to get started on rooting their device. I'm making this as sort of an updated thread to @DooMLoRD 's Amazing Guide (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354704). I hope that you guys are positive towards this thread and not be ungrateful to the effort I've given to this thread. On another note, please, wait NO, YOU MUST THANK :good::good: the developers in their specific threads as a form of appreciation to their hardwork they've put into creating a more vibrant world for the Android Community! Enough chatter, let's get on with dis! :fingers-crossed:
Disclaimer
By following this guide, you are hereby responsible to anything that happens to your device. By rooting, you are essentially VOIDING your warranty but there is a way to regain your warranty though. If you follow this guide CORRECTLY, I can assure you that 80% of the time, you won't hit into problems.
Rooting
The term "root" in Android is defined as "Unlocking Higher Privelages to your Android Device". Rooting can also be compared to the User Account Controls in Windows PCs. Traditional rooting methods are usually what steers users away from actualy from rooting their device but the newly released app named; "TowelRoot" is an application developed by world-renowned hacker GeoHot which aims to simplify the rooting process to a click of a button. To root the Sony Xperia SP, the TowelRoot Application is able to quickly allow you to root your device in a click. Follow the steps below to root your device in a matter of seconds!
Go to Settings > Security > and check Unknown Sources ON to allow us to install third-party apps.
If needed, untick the Verify Application option
Access http://towelroot.com
Tap on the Lambda Sign [The Letter in the middle of the website]
Save the application that is downloaded [Application name: tr.apk ]
Install the TowelRoot Application
Once installation is completed, open the app
Tap on the Make it Ra1n Button and give it a maximum of 2 minutes to excecute the rooting process
Once Finished, the application should say that you are rooted!
If the Installation Fails, your phone will just simply reboot. If it does fail, you might want to turn to DoomLord's Easy Rooting Toolkit: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2329208 or other sources
Install SuperSU by ChainsDD or ChainFire on the Play Store
Open the app and update its binary and you should be completed!
And DONE! It wasn't that complicated right? Although I think we exceeded that few seconds promise, you still got root access now!
BootLoader
There are some Xperia SP's that come with a LOCKED Bootloader. It is highly recommended to unlock your bootloader as it will give you much more opportunities to the Android World. DoomLord has the whole proccess covered in perfect detail so I rather you guys take a look at his amazing guide by clicking on the badass link that redirects to his awesome post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354721
Recovery
The main aim of obtaining a recovery for your device is to have the ability to install Android MODS, ROMS and more on your device. The most trusted Recoveries in Android are; ClockworkMOD, Team Win Recovery Project [TWRP] and PHILZ Touch (A touch version of ClockworkMOD). To get all three recoveries follow the steps below!
Visit this site on your computer: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2649923
Download the ZIP File
Unzip the file to your most preffered location
Head to the About Phone Section in your Xperia SP Settings
Press on the Build Number multiple times until the notification that says, You are now a developer or You're Already a Developer pops up
Go back to the main page of your settings
Open the Developer Options Tab
Locate the USB Debugging Option and tick it
Click the button on the top right to enable the Developer Options
Go back to the main screen of your Xperia SP (Launcher)
Run the Install.bat file on your computer
Select Option 1 to start the installation process
A notification should pop up on your Xperia SP Screen. Click on Accept to allow the install to continue
Once done, the Installer should notify you that the installation is complete
How to access a Recovery
It is important to get used to used to using a Recovery as it will reduce the chance of you running into problems. Your phone should now have 3 recoveries but we'll use the most trusted recovery which is the ClockworkMOD Recovery. To access the recovery follow this steps:
Turn on your device
Upon showing the SONY Logo, press and hold the Camera Button until a set of lights appear
If done correctly, you should be able to access CWM Recovery
Installing a Custom ROM
A Custom ROM is a custom-made android developed by Developers around the world. It is important to follow the steps shown by the Developer to install the Custom ROM to your device. If not, you can start saying goodbye to your Android as it will get what is known as a soft-brick. Every person has their own preffered custom ROMs that they use be it VANIR; a ROM based off pure Android, CyanogenMOD; a ROM based off its own system modifications and even your own Sony ROMs being made better! Take a look at this list at the thread below to find your own custom ROMs .Be sure to follow the instructions given by the Developer! It is also recommended that you look at the thread closely to see if there are any bugs and also required specifications before installing the ROM of your choice.
Redirect yo' ass to the thread by clicking on this small ass link to my right mate : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2683688
Android Kernels
An Android Kernel is the 'Software' that your hardware looks to to get functions working. Android Kernels for the Xperia SP are bound to the Android System/ROM that you have installed on your phone. Some Custom ROMs have their own Kernel built into them so again, look closely at the instructions on their specific thread. The links below will redirect you to the Kernels that are made available for the Xperia SP
Kernel for Stock Sony Firmware:
DooMKernel V13: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2345567
Williams Kernel V5.1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2750392
Stock .2.245 / .2.254 Kernel: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2404452
Kernel for CyanogenMOD and MIUI ROMS:
Williams Kernel V4: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2764939
NayakKernel V1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2581531
Installing MODS
Android Firmware generally gets shipped with bugs and issues that are mainly caused by phone manafacturers so it is wise to install MODs that help to improve your Android Experience even further. The list below shows you one of the most effective and great MODs that work on the Xperia SP. Check em' out mate! Follow the instructions to install the MODS to your device!
PurePerformancesX: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2360670
AdBlockPLUS: https://adblockplus.org/en/android
Backing Up your device
Sometimes we run into trouble so we will usually back up our devices either by the Cloud or by using a storage device. The most common way of backing up your device is by backing up a 'system image' of your device by using the application called NanDroid (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.h3r3t1c.onnandbup). Once installed, backup your device to your preferred storage device but we recommend backing it up to our good old SD Cards. Another way to backup your device is by creating a flashable zip of what YOU want to be backed up. This can be done through an all new application known as ZIPme by the famous (I think? ) JMRummyApps (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=zip.me). Choose what you want to be backed up with the app and store it in your SD Card.
Recovering your device
Its perfectly normal to soft-brick your device now and then but it is important to know how to recover your device from it! Here are 2 methods to recovering your poor Xperia SP to its original state(s).
1. By Recovery
So if you still have the custom recoveries installed on your device, you can simply use the backups that you made from the applications in the 'Backing Up your device section'. To use the backup to good use, make your way to the the Recovery of your device and follow the instructions below:
Factory Reset your device by clicking on the wipe data option on the menu
After wiping your device, go back to the main page by hitting the GO BACK button on the sceen
Hit the 'Install ZIp' option
Press Choose zip from SDCard1
Locate your NanDroid Backup
Hit Install and let the phone do its thing
Once completed, reboot device and you should have android back! If not, follow the next method to recover your device
1. By Flashtool
Flashtool is a utility that is able to flash (install) STOCK SONY Firmware to your device without a lot of hassle. Follow the steps below to get your ass more known to flashtool! :silly:
Download Flashtool to your computer here: http://www.flashtool.net/download.php
Once installed, download and install the drivers from this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2635830
If you're running on the useless (just kidding) Windows 8/8.1, follow the steps on this post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...bootloader-t2153261/post38878089#post38878089
Download your country-specific FTF (Firmware) File from this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2311964
Launch the Flashtool Utility
Click on the Lightning Button (Install Button)
Click the FlashMode Option
Locate your downloaded Firmware by pressing the button with the 3dots on the top right hand corner of the window
Select the Firmware
Click Flash
Follow the On-screen instructions after that
Reboot Device
Wait for maximum of 10minutes for rebuilding of system files
The Stock Android should pop-up and you can repeat all of the steps mentioned above to reroot your device!
Warranty Recovery
Preparing your device to obtain worthy of the warranty you got with your device means following the steps in the 'Recovering Your Device' and flashing the Stock SONY Firmware via flashtool. To Lock your bootloader again, follow the steps provided by AndroidTeen.com (Just a random site I found that helped me lock my bootloader ) http://androidteen.com/sony-xperia-sp-how-to-relock-bootloader/
Further Assistance
The Xperia SP community is full of derps people. If you ever run into any problems and such, please do post a informative thread that includes all the information you can provide and your help question in THIS forum section. It is also recommended to ask your question in the specific thread of your problem (eg. Installing a recovery problems and enquiries should be posted on its specific thread). You can also alternatively request for assistance on this thread too.
Epilogue
Thank you for following me in the guide this far and I hope you've benefited from this guide or maybe even give you a good read! Support this guide by leaving a BLOODY, I meant Nicely crafted Thanks by hitting the Thanks button for the thread! Be sure to support all of the developers and sources cited in this guide! Hope to see you again in my next guide! (It's a gaming guide ) If you want to contribute to the guide in any-way, (BIG or small) do PM me @Furrydaus and i'll look into it!
Credito's
>/The Legend @DooMLoRD
>/The Bad-ass GeoHot
>/The Smart @dssmex
>/The Compiler @mrjraider
>/Kernel Crafter @karthiknayak94
>/Kernel Creator @pec0ra
>/The All-Mighty @Jeeko
Contributers
Thank you for helping out in the Guide! Big or Small! :good:
>/[MENTION]@adebnath[/MENTION]
If the Installation Fails, your phone will just simply reboot. If it does fail, you might want to turn to DoomLord's Easy Rooting Toolkit: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2329208 or other sources
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Reserved
Changelog:
Added Alternatives to Rooting
Improved Grammar and Spelling of Guide
Added Contributers Section
Added more links to specific threads
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please confirm TowelRoot is working with .207 stock rom?
Thanks.
adebnath said:
Can you please confirm TowelRoot is working with .207 stock rom?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TowelRoot should work on ALL Stock ROMs! Try it out! If it does fail, it will just reboot. Wow you just reminded me to add that statement in thanks! :good:
You know most of this intel can already be found here on the forum.
My rooting guide with towelroot, backing up the device, repairing it. Etc etc..
So I dont see the point of creating this guide?
~~ Regards
mrjraider said:
You know most of this intel can already be found here on the forum.
My rooting guide with towelroot, backing up the device, repairing it. Etc etc..
So I dont see the point of creating this guide?
~~ Regards
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? Well this seems to be a huge waste of time. I think i'll just leave it here on the forums to improve those seacrhing for this threads. Do you mind posting your thread link here? Would love to take a look at it
NayakKernel is for cm 11 based ROM [emoji6]
Furrydaus said:
Really? Well this seems to be a huge waste of time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly what I was thinking.
For a device that's over a year old, it's quite normal that all the above has already been covered.
Anyway, it's not a bad idea to put all this "basic" information in one thread but I suggest you to post links to the individual threads.
That way people know where to post in case of questions or problems.
Gamm86 said:
Exactly what I was thinking.
For a device that's over a year old, it's quite normal that all the above has already been covered.
Anyway, it's not a bad idea to put all this "basic" information in one thread but I suggest you to post links to the individual threads.
That way people know where to post in case of questions or problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ill update the thread to make it more comprehensive as soon as I can.
OP is now updated with more sweg!
Check le Changelog for details! :silly:
My anti-virus shows me that there is a trojan in the tr.apk can i ignore that?
71cosmo said:
My anti-virus shows me that there is a trojan in the tr.apk can i ignore that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Its totally safe except if you dont follow the steps I stated
Great guide Furrydaus :good:
When I press make it a ran, it ask for internet connection although it is connected
Any idea?
mn399 said:
When I press make it a ran, it ask for internet connection although it is connected
Any idea?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try redownloading towelroot
Sent from my Xperia SP using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
272
adebnath said:
Can you please confirm TowelRoot is working with .207 stock rom?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes It is working. I root my device using towel root with .207 update
*ENHANCEMENTS*
Full proper root (still requires remount to edit root level files for added security)
init.d support
Internal Storage Cache tweaks
Governor tweaks
sysctl tweaks
Network tweaks
Dalvik tweaks
Memory usage tweaks
Ram tuning
Improved battery life
Busybox 1.24.1
Custom watchface support
Custom embedded faces (WIP, only one has been changed so far)
*REMOVED*
AdupsFota
AdupsFotaReboot
BasicDreams
Calender
DocumentsUI
FlappyBird
HTMLViewer
MTKLogger.apk
PrintSpooler
*ADDED*
SuperSU
AOSP Calendar
AOSP Email
AOSP Exchange support
Heads-Up Notifications
*Issues*
?? You tell me ???
NOT Issues
Lag and stutter on boot and for the first couple minutes after install. Because there is no source to build from, every core change has to be done by scripting. So that lag is network fixes, memory tweaks and other fixes being implemented.
Firmware Oddities
Weather on watchface vs the app/widget- The data on a watchface updates periodically while the app/widget requires you manually update it.
*Improvements and Changes pending*
Real "OK Google" everywhere support (/system space is the main limiting factor)
Further security checks
Theme fixing
DeODEXed build for themers (DeODEXed should not be a daily driver for average users)
ROM OTA service
Fixing the retina burning brightness level
*INSTRUCTIONS*
(How I write my instructions- If it's not listed, don't do it. If I don't mention it, it not worth thinking about. In short- Turn off brain, follow the steps.)
First time installers:
Extract the "K8 Round v1.0.3.zip" to your desktop
Download and extract the "K8 TWRP Recovery Files.zip" at the bottom of this post to the SP Tool's firmware folder
Turn the K8 on (doesn't matter if it's stock, stock with OTA, or rooted)
Connect the K8 to the computer
Turn on USB Storage on the K8 (check notifications if you don't get a popup)
Copy the folder from the "K8 Round v1.0.3.zip" to the K8 (you should see one folder, "TWRP")
Open SP Tool
Select the "K8_Round_Android_scatter" scatter
Hit the "Download" button
Turn off the K8 without disconnecting it from the computer
(SP Tool will flash TWRP)
Disconnect the K8 from the computer
Press and hold the lower button
Power on the K8
Keep pressing the lower button til TWRP boots
Wipe
"Restore" the backup
Reboot
Updating from previous release:
Extract the "K8 Round v1.0.3.zip" to your desktop
Turn the K8 on (doesn't matter if it's stock, stock with OTA, or rooted)
Connect the K8 to the computer
Turn on USB Storage on the K8 (check notifications if you don't get a popup)
Copy the folder from the "K8 Round v1.0.3.zip" to the K8 (you should see one folder, "TWRP")
Disconnect the K8 from the computer
Power off the K8
Press and hold the lower button
Power on the K8
Keep pressing the lower button til TWRP boots
Wipe
"Restore" the backup
Reboot
Credits:
@cyrux75 (TWRP build)
@pogodancer (edited scatter for TWRP only install)
@pablo11 (community and thread help)
You (for donations to help get this on the roll)
Change log
Change Log
v1.0.0
Initial Release
v1.0.1
Fixes
Fixed data issue
Fixed Weather app issue (adware and malware hosts list blocked the server)
Removed Open Mic+
Changes
Adjusted CPU Governor to step up at 90% load vs the previous 98% (battery life impact is to be expected)
Added Heads-Up Notifications
Additional network and memory tweaks
Added "Wear" boot animation for the lulz
Updated Busybox to 1.24.1
v1.0.2
Fixes
Fixed the poor battery life due to 90% load clock up
Changes
Adjusted CPU Governor to step up at 95% load vs the previous 90%
Adjusted CPU Governor power save bias from 150 to 250
Minor tuning busybox install
v1.0.3
Fixes
Rebuilt for stock to eliminate possible flashing issues. (flashed multiple times before uploading)
Changes
None
This one too!
This is just for k8 right? Mini and D5 is not supported?
Enviado desde mi Letv X500 mediante Tapatalk
great job as always!
negriton said:
This is just for k8 right? Mini and D5 is not supported?
Enviado desde mi Letv X500 mediante Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's right. Main reasons are there is no functional TWRP for the D5/Mini right now, merging takes a little time, and per my agreement with the K8 Round folks they get release priority. Now I do have an SP Tools flashable build for the D5/Mini, with all the same changes (and issues), that I'll upload later.
looking forward to Mini's and D5's updates. Nevertheless I take a sit to see how is going this update.
Thanks for your hard work!
Lokifish Marz said:
*ENHANCEMENTS*
Full proper root (still requires remount to edit root level files for added security)
adware and malware hosts list
init.d support
Internal Storage Cache tweaks
Governor tweaks
sysctl tweaks
Network tweaks
Dalvik tweaks
Memory usage tweaks
Ram tuning
Improved battery life
Custom watchface support
*REMOVED*
AdupsFota
HTMLViewer
Basic Daydreams
FotaProvider
MTK Logger
*REPLACED*
K18 launcher replaced with D5 launcher (adds custom watchface support)
*ADDED*
4.4 Open Gapps (pico)
SuperSU
Root Browser
Open Mic (adds "OK Google" support everywhere)
*Issues*
Stock Weather app and widget will not update
?? You tell me ???
*Improvements and Changes pending*
build.prop tweaks
Getting the stupid weather app to work (this is a carry over from the D5/Mini)
Assigning a function to the third button (menu maybe)
Fine tuning
Real "OK Google" everywhere support
Further security checks
AOSP Browser, Calendar, email (maybe)
Theme fixing
Custom boot logo and animation
DeODEXed build for themers (DeODEXed should not be a daily driver for average users)
*INSTRUCTIONS*
Extract zip
Copy contents to internal storage (TWRP and Clockskin folders)
Flash TWRP using SP Tools
Reboot into recovery after flashing (the two lower buttons)
Wipe
Install backup
Reboot
Enjoy
Credits:
@cyrux75 (TWRP build)
@pogodancer (edited scatter for TWRP only install)
@pablo11 (community and thread help)
You (for donations to help get this on the roll)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@ lokifish marz, thanks for your work! I would like to ask you if you used the original base band of the k8 or if you changeg it. I am asking because i am experiencig some issue with poor signal using stock ROM.
Tnx
A costume ROM - Nice one!
I am a bit confused, how to install this ROM.
My K8 is stock, without root and with the latest OTA-Update.
Do I have to root my watch first or can I use the SP-Flash tool, like in the attached picture. This doesn't work for me.
MTK Droid Tools shows me:
"ATTENTION! File /system/recovery-from-boot.p which restore factory recovery in case of phone switching on in a normal mode Is Found! "
...this is why we can't get twrp on watch with actually update . Recovery will always change to orginal recovery at start. Or flash more than recovery with SPFlashTools ... but don't do it if you don't know what you do ! ☺
Do I have to install an older stock firmware? Thanks
rockabilly said:
...this is why we can't get twrp on watch with actually update . Recovery will always change to orginal recovery at start. Or flash more than recovery with SPFlashTools ... but don't do it if you don't know what you do !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My watch is on the latest OTA and does not boot from custom recovery.
Please wait for confirmation from the thread owner about this procedure !!
Personally - to get around this I will copy the new image from @Lokifish Marz on to SD storage and then flash only the original UBOOT.img (from the stock read-back files linked in the K8 round thread) and the TWRP - recovery.img.
However - I am NOT recommending this approach for everybody as I have not confirmed it yet and @Lokifish Marz may have other ideas about how to flash this rom for users on the latest OTA who cannot boot from custom recovery.
It should work but as I say - but I have not tried it yet.
I would be happy for any comments/feedback about this.
I would root the watch, then use mobileuncle to boot into recovery, then just install everything included above. Easy as that . I hope hahahahahha
cosmospho said:
I would root the watch, then use mobileuncle to boot into recovery, then just install everything included above. Easy as that . I hope hahahahahha
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rooting the watch will be an unnecessary challenge - just the way I feel about it....
OK, the installation method is exactly as I listed it. I'll break it down even further in the OP.
I have flashed the ROM multiple times with the OTA, without the OTA, rooted and unrooted. It worked every single time. Why does it work? Because TWRP only gets replaced after the device boots into Android if you accepted the OTA. Why? Because the device has to boot to Android to read the script that replaces custom recovery with stock. So if the script is there, TWRP is still there until you see a watchface when booting the device.
@cosmospho - don't waste your time. Rooting properly, and safely, can only be done by flashing SuperSU in TWRP.
ok so I have the device rooted with kingroot from the past, should I just go back to stock and then TWRP and your rom. Would that be the best way, or since I already have Root with Kingroot can I just boot into recovery and go from there ?
Thanks.
cosmospho said:
ok so I have the device rooted with kingroot from the past, should I just go back to stock and then TWRP and your rom. Would that be the best way, or since I already have Root with Kingroot can I just boot into recovery and go from there ?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From the OP;
Lokifish Marz said:
(doesn't matter if it's stock, stock with OTA, or rooted)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks @Lokifish Marz
I flashed TWRP on mine and it refused to boot into recovery, even on first boot.
That's the only reason I posted what I said previously.
I'll try again later.
Cheers.
pablo11 said:
Thanks @Lokifish Marz
I flashed TWRP on mine and it refused to boot into recovery, even on first boot.
That's the only reason I posted what I said previously.
I'll try again later.
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Odd. I know I had to get the button press right to get it to work. The only one that worked consistently was to press and hold both the middle and lower buttons to turn it on, then to continue holding down the lower button until TWRP booted.
Same problem on my watch. I thought, that I am to stupid to press a button.
My watch just simple makes a normal boot.
Fastboot (Upper button) works.
pablo11 said:
Thanks @Lokifish Marz
I flashed TWRP on mine and it refused to boot into recovery, even on first boot.
That's the only reason I posted what I said previously.
I'll try again later.
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With Barnes & Noble now selling the Galaxy Tab S2 710 (32gb) for $299 in the U.S. (and an extra 10% off if you're a B&N member), I picked one up yesterday and immediately came here to research rooting and set up. What I found were a lot of guides written a while ago, and a lot of confusing (at least to me) information. So I thought I would consolidate, in one place, in a new thread, what I eventually did, on the assumption that there might be a lot of new Tab S2 owners in the coming weeks. Obviously, you undertake these steps at your own risk, and YMMV. Also, hopefully equally obviously, none of the fantastic tools here are original with me -- credit goes to all those, like chainfire, ashyrx, wanam, engine95 and many more who have built and/or developed them.
1. If your Tab comes with anything but 5.1.1 XXU2BPB1, feel free to take the OTA update. In the US, it's the most current build as of 4.30.16 and you will still be able to root.
2. If you don't already have it, download Odin 3.10.7. You can find it here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2711451
When you run Odin in Windows, probably better to run it in administrator mode (right click on the icon), although I haven't always found that to be necessary.
3. Flash a Custom Recovery using the PDA tab of Odin. Put your Tab into Download mode by turning it off, then pressing and holding the Home, Power and Volume Down buttons all at the same time. When the download screen comes up, press the Volume Up button to continue. Now you're ready to attach your Tab to your PC. Load TWRP 3.0.2-1 from Ashyx's thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/tab-s2/development/recovery-twrp-2-8-7-x-lollipop-5-1-1-t3205686 into Odin. Follow his instructions carefully -- once the custom recovery flashes, you have to manually reboot into the new recovery (so untick the auto-reboot option in Odin) or else your new custom recovery gets overwritten and you go back to your stock recovery.
4. Backup your Stock Rom -- While you're still in TWRP (or if you've already rebooted, go back to it), it would make sense to do a full backup of your stock ROM. That way you can restore your Tab to its original state if you ever need or want to.
5. Root -- Here's where I found the most confusion on these forums. You can do a systemless root -- i.e., keeping a stock, SE Enforcing, kernel (as opposed to flashing a permissive kernel and always getting the red SE Noneforcing Kernel message on a reboot and/or needing to use CF-Auto-Root). All you need to do is install Super SU 2.71 (BETA). Get the zip from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/2014-09-02-supersu-v2-05-t2868133 and put it on your Tab. Then flash using the "Install" choice within your TWRP recovery. Reboot -- and when TWRP asks you whether you want to install SuperSU because you're not rooted -- you have to say "NO" (OK, that's counterintuitive, but chainfire's instructions are clear).
5. Debloat -- That's beyond this thread's scope, but I recommend Titanium Backup from the Play Store. If you want to get rid of the "Nook" logo on reboot, flash the zip file from post #2 of Engine95's thread (using TWRP) found here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/tab-s2/development/rom-neked-nook-oj1-5-1-1-710-t3317823
6. SD Card Fix -- if you find your third party apps can't write to your SD Card, the attachment below describes how to fix it. If this type of editing scares you (make a backup first!), the Play Store app SD Card Fix supposedly still works with Lollipop and you can try that.
7. Netflix Fix -- for some reason, Netflix doesn't like root on the Nook Tab. The fix for this is as simple as renaming the file "system/lib/liboemcrypto.so" (using a root explorer of your choice) as "system/lib/liboemcrypto.so.bak"
8. Xposed -- I happen to like Xposed and don't find it messes up anything, while giving you a ton of customization options. Installation is a two-step process. First, find the correct version of wanam's Xposed zip from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xposed/unofficial-xposed-samsung-lollipop-t3180960, and flash it using TWRP. For Lollipop on the S2, I used his SDK 22-arm version (SDK 23 is for Marshmallow). Don't worry if the reboot takes a long time -- that's normal. Then, once rebooted, simply install wanam's Xposed apk (XposedInstaller_3.0_Alpha4) that's available in the same thread.
That's it. I hope this saves some of you a lot of my trial and error, and, if it does, please press the "thanks" button.
EDIT -- Here's a #9 I just discovered --- Microsoft Office apps, although pre-installed on the device, will not open once you're rooted (or maybe it's just flashing TWRP that does it). Moreover, if you uninstall and try a re-install from the Play Store, if you're like me, you'll get a device not compatible message. My solution was to sideload the apks (e.g., Word, Excel and Powerpoint) from my Note 4, but I suspect you could also change your device ID within your build.prop file (backup first!) and get a similar result.
ANOTHER EDIT (5.2.16) -- #10 -- I can't get Google Play Movies to work at all on my T710 after rooting. Tried renaming libemcrypto.so without luck. Tried editing boot.prop to disguise myself as a Nexus 10. Tried the Xposed module Root Cloak. All no good. Any suggestions welcome!
Thanks! I just got a new nook and have started to come into these forums and also noticed the old and randomly updated threads. I appreciate the clear instructions. Are there any roms right now that you are recommending?
rawdikrik said:
Thanks! I just got a new nook and have started to come into these forums and also noticed the old and randomly updated threads. I appreciate the clear instructions. Are there any roms right now that you are recommending?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I'm trying to stick with stock. Engine95's rom seems to have some happy users though....
how do you manual reboot to recovery mode after download mode? i have tried the (pwr+vol up+home) but it does not work at all.. once i reboot normally the TWRP which i flashed cannot get installed at all. I need HELP!