Database Users

[Guide] Rooting Nexus 7 (Wi-Fi and 3G Edition) [Newbie-Friendly] [ADB/Fastboot]

Information: If you're experienced with ADB/Fastboot or Manual Android Rooting, you could read this thread and see if you find something that seems wrong and report to me, thanks!
Introduction​Hello there!
I decided to create a new Nexus 7 Rooting Guide, I know that there are some guides already, but I have a few reasons to make this guide.
Unlike many rooting guides, this one doesn't use an automated program (a.k.a Toolkit) and it works for both Nexus 7 Wi-Fi and Nexus 7 3G.
This guide has been tested with a Nexus 7 3G Edition, running Android 4.2.1/4.2.2.
Last Topic Update: Never
Last Minor Topic Update: Check thread edit date!
Requirements:
Nexus 7 (Wi-Fi or 3G Edition)
Android SDK
ADB/Fastboot Drivers
Unlocked Bootloader
If you don't have ADB/Fastboot drivers installed, please check out this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1907796
See Basic Knowledge and Driver Installation parts.
If you have Android SDK and ADB/Fastboot drivers installed and working, you can continue reading.
Make sure you have USB Debugging enabled in your Nexus 7.
Don't forget to unlock the bootloader!
Warning: You're the only one responsible if something bad happens to your device!
Nothing bad is going to happen, but there is always a small risk.
Personally, I recommend having +60% of Battery during ROM Changes (Flashing and etc).
I also recommend you to learn how to do a Factory Image Restore (Flash Stock ROM) before attempting to root...
Rooting your Nexus 7​
To root our device, we're simply going to put in our tablet a small program called "SuperSU", you might want to download it now to your PC:
SuperSU v1.04
Basically, we´re going to put SuperSU in /system partition, the file you downloaded is a "Flashable ZIP".
We're going to use TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) to flash the Flashable ZIP (In this case, SuperSU), after flashing SuperSU you get root privileges!
Now, go to your Android SDK Folder where Fastboot (fastboot.exe) is located (platform-tools), open a command prompt and change directories to your Fastboot location, if you need help just search on Google.
Now, you have CMD (Command Prompt) open with the Android SDK Directory, and we need to reboot your device into Fastboot mode, to do that just type the following:
adb reboot-bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're now in Fastboot Mode (a.k.a Bootloader), type the following to make sure you're in Fastboot Mode:
fastboot devices
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should see something like this:
Code:
> fastboot devices
# the following output should be returned
<device serial number> fastboot
Type "fastboot reboot" to reboot the device, then copy the SuperSU.zip you downloaded to your Nexus 7.
I also forgot to tell you to download TWRP, if you have the Nexus 7 Wi-Fi Edition, your board codename is Grouper, if you have the 3G Edition, your board codename is Tilapia.
TWRP for Nexus 7 [grouper]
TWRP for Nexus 7 3G [tilapia]
Copy the correct TWRP Edition to your Nexus 7, then boot into the bootloader.
Temporarily boot TWRP using the following command:
fastboot boot TWRP.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Replace "TWRP.img" with the correct file name.
You can also flash TWRP instead of temporarily booting.
Inside TWRP click "Install" and select the SuperSU ZIP File, then Confirm Flash.
After flashing, reboot your device and you should have SuperSU installed. (Open SuperSU just to test)
Congratulations! You now have a Rooted Device!
To make sure you have rooted, download "Root Checker" from Google Play.
Conclusion​As you can see, this tutorial is a little different from others, I explained what we were going to do and also explained the commands instead of giving you directly the commands.
This tutorial was written to teach the basics of ADB/Fastboot, I hope you rooted your device without problems and learnt/learned something, have a good day!
Feel free to give suggestions or corrections!
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.​

Just for newbies wondering what this really means:
1. install and boot into TWRP/CWM recovery means you boot up a 'mini' linux which can do whatever it wants(as root) to any of the partition on the device(including the /system one)
2. the supersu package contains 2 files(an APK and the more importantly 'su') plus some update scripts that (1) would run and copy them to the appropriate places(mainly the 'su' which is the only file that is critical)

I think you need to mention the bootloader unlock someplace.
Perhaps you can find those specific instructions in another good reference thread; but if not then, at a minimum you should put it in your prerequisites list.
In the narrative as it stands, you casually mention the other thread
[GUIDE] Flashing a Factory Image with fastboot / return to stock
but don't insist that your reader looks at that thread.
But the time for doing the unlock sequence follows the begginers first (fastboot) driver installation, so unless someone reads that thread pretty thoroughly, they will skip it in your description here, and will get stopped out at
Code:
fastboot boot TWRP.img
which needs the privileges of an unlocked bootloader. Since unlocking the bootloader currently entails performing a full-phone wipe, the consequences of that are pretty significant and shouldn't be skipped over.
cheers. Thanks.

bftb0 said:
I think you need to mention the bootloader unlock someplace.
Perhaps you can find those specific instructions in another good reference thread; but if not then, at a minimum you should put it in your prerequisites list.
In the narrative as it stands, you casually mention the other thread
[GUIDE] Flashing a Factory Image with fastboot / return to stock
but don't insist that your reader looks at that thread.
But the time for doing the unlock sequence follows the begginers first (fastboot) driver installation, so unless someone reads that thread pretty thoroughly, they will skip it in your description here, and will get stopped out at
Code:
fastboot boot TWRP.img
which needs the privileges of an unlocked bootloader. Since unlocking the bootloader currently entails performing a full-phone wipe, the consequences of that are pretty significant and shouldn't be skipped over.
cheers. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello!
Thanks for your answer, I completely forgot about the "Unlocking Bootloader" part, tomorrow when I get some time I will edit the thread...
Have a good day/night.
Edit: Added "Unlocked Bootloader" to the requisites list and a small note after "Make sure you have USB Debugging enabled in your Nexus 7", tomorrow I may edit the thread again.
Edit 2: I think the essential part is written, and because I'm a little busy, I will leave (temporarily) this thread. You're free to enhance this guide and re-publish it following Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 Unported License.

[Beginners Guide] Unlock & Custom ROM your TF300

I have been asked to port my "Beginners Guide" from the TF700 forum for the TF300. Since both tablets are very similar, that was not too hard to do
If I have missed to update a link specific for the TF300, do let me know please.
And the standard disclaimer: I am not responsible if you misunderstand instructions I give here, if my instructions are wrong, if you forget to charge the battery and the tablet dies halfway through a flash or if your house goes up in flames. YOU DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK
These instructions assume that you are on the latest Asus bootloader: 10.6.1.27.5
To determine which bootloader you currently have:
From an "Off" state, boot the tablet with Volume Down and Power into the bootloader menu. Read the small script in the upper left. You'll see
US_epad-10.6.1.27.5-20130801" or similar.
US or WW, JP, CN is your SKU or region
10.6.1.27.5 is your bootloader version
20130801 is the build date (and immaterial in most cases).
First things first:
Backup everything on your tablet you care about to an external microSD or your PC. Don't worry about your apps. You can always install them from the Play Store.
This is just common sense. It is not inherently risky to flash custom ROMs. But something can wrong at any time and you have to be careful. If you are, this is a safe procedure.
Basically the process of flashing a custom ROM on the TF300 involves three steps:
1) Unlock the bootloader using Asus' Unlock tool
2) Install a custom recovery on the tablet
3) Flash a custom ROM of your choice using said custom recovery​
Unlocking the bootloader
Your tablet should be fully charged at this point!
Make sure "USB debugging" is checked in Settings > Developer Options (if you don't see it, go to About Tablet and tap 7 times on Build Number)
Go to Asus website: https://www.asus.com/support/Download/28/1/0/9/8BmzkQ4yoz5WzBrW/32/
Choose "Android" for OS and look for the "Utilities" on the resulting page.
Download the Asus Unlock Tool v7 (not v8! It says v7 is for ICS but it'll work fine on JB - see below)
The tool downloads as a .rar file which is an archive you have to decompress. 7zip is a free and very good Windows tool that will do it for you
On your tablet, in Settings > Security check "Unknown Sources"
Copy the .apk you extracted from the .rar archive to your tablet.
Find the apk in your tablet's file browser, tap it and let it install
Open the app and follow the instructions. You will loose your warranty as soon as you click "I agree".
Update 2/15: Google added another wrinkle: It now checks even sideloaded apps and refuses to install them if they are considered not secure. The Unlock tool seems to fail their test. v8 does not install at all anymore. v7 will install if you allow "less secure apps" in your Google account settings. On the web - not your Google account on the tablet
July 2015: And another wrinkel... It seems to be pretty consistent now that the Unlock Tool hangs on the Google account password step. I suspect something changed on the Google side. It probably doesn't allow the tool to check/compare the password anymore. There have been quite a few security changes lately and the unlock tool never gets updated so I suspect that Google now is blocking access by the tool to it's servers.
The work-around is easy enough: Delete the Google account from the tablet (Settings > Accounts), then run the tool again. If that doesn't do it, do a factory reset from Settings, reboot and during the initial setup establish a WiFi connection but skip the google account setup, then run the tool
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This can be a 5 Minute operation that goes without a hitch or a very frustrating experience with lots of error messages. There is no definite rhyme or reason for this. For some people it works like a charm, for others it works after 15, 25 or 55 attempts, for some never.... This problem is widely discussed on several forums. Google it if you hit that roadblock.
To check if you are unlocked, boot the tablet and read the tiny script. It should say:
The device is unlocked.
Installing a custom recovery on your tablet
I highly recommend you choose TWRP as your custom recovery. If you want CWM, you are on your own.
To push TWRP to your tablet you need to set up "Fastboot" between your tablet and your PC. Fastboot is a protocol that enables you low level access to your tablet.
Practice/Background
Power down your tablet and disconnect it from the dock
Push and hold the Volume Down key (left side of the rocker) and the Power key until you feel the tablet vibrate twice. Let go when you see the tiny script. Read it and it tells you that your tablet is now in fastboot mode and you will see three icons (I assume again you are on a JB 4.2 bootloader. In older bootloaders you had 4 icons and had to select the USB icon to get into fastboot mode):
RCK - (which should be flashing) is your recovery (the stock recovery at this point, but once TWRP is installed this is one way to get into it)
Android - is your system, selecting it boots you back to into your ROM.
Wipe Data - stay away! Especially with custom software installed never, ever use this option!
To toggle between the three icons use Volume Down, to select one use Volume Up. Try it but do not push Volume Up when the 'Wipe data' icon is flashing!​
Installing ADB and fastboot plus the necessary drivers
For a working ADB/fastboot connection from PC to tablet you need:
a) Asus device drivers – if you connect the tablet to your PC and it's recognized as a portable device you should be ok. If not, download the Asus Sync Utility from their support/downloads site and install it to get the drivers, then uninstall the program from your PC if you don't want it. The drivers will stay.
b) Fastboot and ADB drivers which will be installed if you run the tool below.
Windows Vista, 7, 8, 10:
Download and run this cool little tool [TOOL] [WINDOWS] ADB, Fastboot and Drivers - 15 seconds ADB Installer v1.1 - xda-developers (don't forget to hit the Thanks button)
The tool installs the adb and fastboot.exe to a folder on your C:\ drive (look for adb) and the corresponding drivers. Takes about 15 seconds.
On Windows 8 and 10 you need to turn off the driver verification feature. Here's a great video on how to do it:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afrvSGiMAtk
Or - even better - here's a quick command line toggle to achieve the same (thank you @Jack_Hardin):
Jack_Hardin said:
If you're running W10, you can disable Device Driver Signing without following the procedure in the linked video, but by (more simply) right-clicking on the Start button, selecting Command Prompt (Admin) and then typing:
Code:
BCDEDIT /set nointegritychecks ON
Doing the same with OFF at the end of the string, as easy to guess as it looks, will reenable them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jack_Hardin said:
Win XP (and all other Win versions if the above does not work for some reason)
I recommend the "ADB Install Tool" mentioned above or the 'Minimal ADB Fastboot Tool': [TOOL]Minimal ADB and Fastboot [7-18-13] - xda-developers
Either works fine.
If you need the drivers, get them here and install manually in Device Manager:[ADB/FB/APX Driver] Universal Naked Driver 0.72 (We dont need no stinking HTC Sync) - xda-developers
Win7 and Win8 users seem to have the best luck wth the drivers sbdags provided here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2646279
It's fine if you want to use his Recovery Install Tool from that thread. But I highly recommend you familiarize yourself with basic fastboot commands! There are lots of tuturials all over the web.
Linux:Check out this site https://code.google.com/p/adb-fastboot-install/
iOS:[GUIDE] Set up ADB and Fastboot on a Mac easily (With Screenshots!) - xda-developers or:
http://htc-one.wonderhowto.com/how-...-mac-os-x-send-commands-your-htc-one-0151178/
The fun begins
Fastboot does not play well with USB 3.0, so use a USB 2.0 port for this. And no hubs and such....
Boot the tablet into fastboot mode and connect it to your computer via the original USB cable
In Windows Explorer navigate to the folder that contains your adb.exe and fastboot.exe
Win 7/8: Shift + right click and select "Open command window here".
For Win XP click here
select 'Run' from the Start menu, type
Code:
cmd
and hit Enter. In the resulting command prompt type
Code:
cd C:\adb\ [I](or whatever the path to your fastboot folder is..)[/I]
In the command window on your PC type:
Code:
fastboot devices
If that command returns a string of numbers and letters, you are good as gold.
Click me: View attachment 3070087
If it returns: "No devices found", fastboot is not working - yet - and you have to troubleshoot.
Getting the correct drivers working can be the hardest part of this exercise. If your computer does not "see" the tablet in fastboot, try to uninstall the existing driver (if any) in Device Manager and manually install the drivers I linked to above. And if Windows does not cooperate at all, PM me and I can hook you up with a Puppy Linux live CD with fastboot/adb set up already.
Let's assume everything is good:
On your computer go here: https://dl.twrp.me/tf300t/
Download the latest version of TWRP.
FYI ONLY: If, for whatever reason, you want to format your data partition:
Formatting /data starting with TWRP 2.7.x and later takes a lot longer than in previous versions (up to 90 minutes). LET IT FINISH. DO NOT INTERRUPT THE FORMATTING.
Rename the file to twrp.blob and place it into the same directory as your fastboot.exe. Note: More recent versions of TWRP download with an .img extension. Leave the extensions as is, rename the first part to watever is easy to type
Again check the connection with
Code:
fastboot devices
If you get the connection, in the command window type:
Code:
fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.blob
or
Code:
fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.img
This will flash the recovery to the recovery partition
If it is successful type:
Code:
fastboot reboot
and let the tablet boot up normally.
You may get a dialog in TWRP offering to root the stock rom. You can accept or cancel it - doesn't matter. I assume you are going to install a custom rom and they are rooted anyway.
Create a nandroid
Your almost there! You are now on the stock ROM with a custom recovery installed.
Power the tablet down and boot into the bootloader menu with Volume Down and Power buttons.
With RCK flashing, push Volume Up and you should boot into TWRP. Familiarize yourself with the many options of the touch based interface without executing anything yet. TWRP is very user friendly. You basically cannot do anything of consequence "by accident", so don't be shy.
To create your Nandroid (a full system backup) touch "Backup", leave the default selection as they are and swipe the button to create a nandroid of your current system.
This is a very healthy habit to develop: You always want to have a nandroid of your last working system squared away so that you can do a simple restore if you flash something that does not work, or something goes wrong during a flash. With a working recovery and a good nandroid you are minutes away from a working system if you soft brick your tablet.
Hint:
It's a good idea to have at least one good nandroid on external media. Sooner or later you will format your data partition and if you're like me, you may forget to backup your nandroids in the heat of the moment..
Installing a custom ROM
From here on out it's as easy as downloading the installation file of your custom ROM, booting into TWRP, choosing "Install" and navigating to the zip of the ROM you want to flash.
If you see a "signed" in the zip file name (best_rom_ever_signed.zip), make sure you check "verify zip signature" under the "Install" menu. Some devs sign their ROM zips - a better way to ensure file integrity than md5 sum.
Whatever you decide to flash: READ THE OP of the corresponding thread and make sure you have the correct bootloader and the required recovery installed! I can't stress this enough! If you are not sure, DO NOT FLASH!
Look for the ROMs in the Development section of the XDA forum for this tablet: http://forum.xda-developers.com/transformer-tf300t/development
It is mandatory to do a Factory Wipe in TWRP before installing a custom ROM or going from one ROM base to another (a so called clean install).
If you choose 'Wipe' in TWRP, all you have to do is swipe the button - 'Factory Wipe' is the default selection under the 'Wipe' menu. You will loose your apps, but it will not wipe your /data/media/ folder where your files, pictures, etc live.
If you do this right before flashing the custom ROM, make sure you have the zip file of your custom ROM on your microSD - not on your internal SD where it may get wiped....
Once you installed a custom recovery NEVER EVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES - AND I REPEAT: NEVER! - use the 'Wipe Data' option from the bootloader menu or the "Factory Reset" option in Settings > Backup&Restore.
In your custom recovery you have the option to wipe, backup and restore every partition on your tablet selectively or collectively. Any wiping, any backup and any restore of the system, data, recovery or boot partitions MUST be done in your recovery (or in fastboot)!
You can safely use Titanium Backup or Asus Backup for apps and settings, but that's it. For everything else use your recovery.
FREE ADVICE
There are alternative methods to flash a recovery to your device using apps like GooManager (currently not supported anyway), TWRP Manager or Flashify from the Play Store which do it right from your tablet. These apps "save you the trouble" of getting ADB and fastboot set up and working on your PC. These methods still exist and they do work - mostly - and if you have root. But I would not recommend them.
If you are not willing to invest the time to learn the basics about ADB and fastboot (google "adb fastboot xda tutorial") and install the necessary drivers on your PC, you should not be flashing anything to your tablet!
GET ADB AND FASTBOOT WORKING!
Sooner or later you will do something stupid (I have done it and so will you) and ADB/fastboot may save your bacon IF you had it working when you didn't really need it.
Hit the 'Thanks' button and rate the thread 5 stars if this helped you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Save it for later

Mine

sbdags said:
@stamatis could we sticky this please.
Brilliant post Bernd :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can we make that happen here to @stamatis
Thx Josh

Nice one Bernd! :good::good:

boot sequence
Hi,
Is normal to see three TUX and some phrases at the power on ?
Can I hide it ?
tnkx
Nicola

You mean the penguins?
That's normal I'd you're running a Rom that uses _that's preinit scripts. You can't hide them - why would you?

thank you SO much
I love you!
Wow, I've never had so much trouble rooting a device before! And days ago, I rooted my T700 without any problems. So, I guess I should have expected the hubby's TF300T to be problematic! Recoveries didn't work, I tried multiple ones. Eventually, I had a recovery that didn't recognize any partitions. I used fastboot to erase them all and put the stock ROM back on--wouldn't boot up. This thread was an immense help! I've moved the other recoveries and ROMs into my non-working folder!
Thanks again!
Lynne

Awesome
What a well written guide! I have a decent understanding of fastboot and adb (although minimal experience), and I perfectly understood every step.
My advice to all newbies like me.... Read stuff ALL of the way through (and understand it), BEFORE stepping off in it.

ok im a bit lost... i have rooted both Nexus 7s, nook hd and hd+, a tf101, and a few tv boxes.. so im not sure why this is hanging up... im trying to root and install the TWRP recovery on a tf300... followed the instructions and even have the char string that means... every thing should be good to go.... have checked that the twrp is in the dir of adb... but when i try to push the twrp.blob to the tf300, it just give me.. this error..
c:\adb>fastboot devices
015d14febf64041b fastboot
c:\adb>fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.blob
sending 'recovery' (6800 KB)...
FAILED (command write failed (Invalid argument))
finished. total time: 0.002s
so.. at this point i not sure what else to trouble shoot... the tablet is in fastboot mode.. adb sees the tablet.. at least that is what the char string confirms.... so any help would be very much appreciated.. just a bit lost on this...
chris

scuzzo said:
ok im a bit lost... i have rooted both Nexus 7s, nook hd and hd+, a tf101, and a few tv boxes.. so im not sure why this is hanging up... im trying to root and install the TWRP recovery on a tf300... followed the instructions and even have the char string that means... every thing should be good to go.... have checked that the twrp is in the dir of adb... but when i try to push the twrp.blob to the tf300, it just give me.. this error..
c:\adb>fastboot devices
015d14febf64041b fastboot
c:\adb>fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.blob
sending 'recovery' (6800 KB)...
FAILED (command write failed (Invalid argument))
finished. total time: 0.002s
so.. at this point i not sure what else to trouble shoot... the tablet is in fastboot mode.. adb sees the tablet.. at least that is what the char string confirms.... so any help would be very much appreciated.. just a bit lost on this...
chris
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bootloader is unlocked yes ?
What is your bootloader version ?
Try a different USB port ?
Thx Josh

lj50036 said:
The bootloader is unlocked yes ?
What is your bootloader version ?
Try a different USB port ?
Thx Josh
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hello,
bootloader is unlocked or at least it says it is at the boot screen.. "your device is unlocked"..
real time... just swapped ports... its says it pushed the recovery.... so... will continue along this path.... and see how it goes.... i think its good to go... just as you suggested... port swap... cool... i bought this just so i could root it and put the kit kat kis rom on it.... thanks for your help and big ups to OP.... great guide ...
thanks again.!

Nice guide!
I've been wanting to put a custom rom on my transformer for a long time. This guide worked like a charm.
The only problem I had was when I tried to flash TWRP recovery, but switching USB port fixed that problem.
I flashed the latest CM12.1 nightly and it works fine.
Many thanks!

Help please, I'm stuck!
I'm trying to flash recovery,
after typing:
fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.blob
I got this on tablet screen:
"Starting Fastboot USB download protocol"
for about 25-30 already and nothing happens, any ideas?
thanks

You won't see anything on the tablet screen, but what does the command window say?
Go back, read the guide again, it's all in there....
Sent from my K00C using Tapatalk

berndblb said:
You won't see anything on the tablet screen, but what does the command window say?
The command window didn't say anything, just blinking cursor after my command line
Go back, read the guide again, it's all in there....
Sent from my K00C using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mishka79 said:
I'm trying to flash recovery,
after typing:
fastboot -i 0x0B05 flash recovery twrp.blob
I got this on tablet screen:
"Starting Fastboot USB download protocol"
for about 25-30 already and nothing happens, any ideas?
thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks,
After writing the question, I've restarted my tablet and did all the steps again.
The second time everything worked as it should. :good:
thanks for your great guide

Really great guide
Amazing guide thanks for the help

Thank you for this good tutorial but I have one question.
I'm a newbie here, here is my dilemma: I've flashed CM android 5.1.1 successfully from stock 4.2. (Thanks for this detailed tutorial), but I lost my root privileges, now I can't use my root apps. How do I apply root to this ROM? My device is an ASUS TF300T. I've tried Kingo Root and King Root but no success.
I would really appreciate your help and inputs.
Cheers!

ANDROIDYER said:
I'm a newbie here, here is my dilemma: I've flashed CM android 5.1.1 successfully from stock 4.2. (Thanks for this detailed tutorial), but I lost my root privileges, now I can't use my root apps. How do I apply root to this ROM? My device is an ASUS TF300T. I've tried Kingo Root and King Root but no success.
I would really appreciate your help and inputs.
Cheers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have not used CM in quite a while but I think you have to enable root in Developer Options. I think it is not enabled by default.
If hat does not work you can go to Chainfire's website and download the flashable SuperSU and just flash it in recovery

Thanks and a couple of notes on TF300T
Thanks so much for the great guide. My 300TF was nearly bricked due to slowness and freeze-ups. I'd stopped using it. The process worked and am now running KatKiss. Couple of problems and their solutions for anyone who may have the 300TF:
-When trying to "Unlock Bootloader" I kept getting to "enter Google password" but when I did so (correctly) it was not accepted. The solution was to do another factory reset and NOT install google services. Didn't ask for password after that.
-Used fastboot command line to install "twrp.blob" but nothing happened and it timed out. I had to take out other usb connect programs first (in my case "easy-tether" and my LG phone connect app.) After that everything went as per your guide.
Thanks again
Geneg

[Q][Solved] Where should I begin as a beginner?

Edit:
[Procedure] http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64841837&postcount=27
Edit/
I am creating this thread dedicated for me and other beginners "noobs".
Where should I begin as a beginner?
I am looking to unlock and root with latest MM that motorola supplies.
Things you should know about me:
I have no idea how to use adb.
I have no idea how to unlock & root or even if I should but I don't like ads.
I have no idea which firmware to use.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x-style/development/pure-firmware-tuff-wip-t3224833
http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...rom-stock-rooted-debloated-x1575-6-0-t3262242
I am completely lost.
I have not gotten my phone yet, I ordered it this morning and will be here Friday. I am just trying to compile sources and info.
Thanks a bunch guys, I really need help with this.

One piece of advice for starters just since you used the word noob. Never mod your phone on a low battery. You can mess a phone up enough to break offline charging, and without a removable battery that you can swap out or charge in a cradle that could get awkward in a hurry on this phone. I always make sure I'm >75% just in case. You can fastboot your way out of all kinds of trouble; but not if your battery is dead and your phone is so screwed up it is not offline charging.
Your phone will probably show up with Android 5.1.1 installed, at least I got mine about 3 weeks ago and it did. Once it is through initial setup it should want to apply an OTA to Android 6.0 right away; if not check for it in Settings -> About -> System updates and it should find one. Just let it update before you do any setup or app downloading.
Once you're on MM, before you do any setup you have to unlock your bootloader if you intend to root. You'll get all the warnings about voiding warranty and here there be dragons, so be prepared for that. Also, unlocking the bootloader will wipe your internal storage, so don't bother with any setup or app downloading before you do it.
Start with Heisenberg's thread. It is a great guide on how to setup your computer for adb and fastboot as well as all the syntax you need for unlocking the bootloader and installing a custom recovery. Make sure to get the 2.8.7.1 version of TWRP that is patched to work with the MM bootloader.
When you boot to TWRP recovery for the first time it will ask if you want to keep system read only. Keep system read only and make a backup immediately. I usually make one backup of boot, system, and data, and a separate one of just efs; don't worry if you don't understand, you'll figure it out when you get there. TWRP is all touch based and pretty intuitive. This way you have good, untouched system backup to fall back on just in case.
When it comes to rooting MM, don't use the old system install method. Flash a SuperSU from this experimental systemless root thread (I used this instead of the ivcarlos method linked to the Heisenberg thread because it is more automated and easier). I can vouch for the 2.62-20151210170034 version of SuperSU. I've used it to root stock MM on this phone 3 or 4x as I've restored backups and changed kernels. I've heard the 2.64 and above SuperSU versions are not working with this phone on MM, and the older traditional system root methods like the v2.49 version that is linked to the Heisenberg thread are causing bootloops on MM. Don't panic on first boot after the systemless root; it appears to bootloop once but comes up normally the second time.
One other thing, TWRP doesn't seem to be able to detect the systemless rooting method, and it really wants your phone to be rooted. If/when TWRP offers to automatically install SuperSU, don't let it - ever - it will keep asking. It must use the old method that causes bootloops on MM, not the new systemless method linked above.
Once you're all rooted and settled in, if you get sick of the unlocked bootloader warning you can fix it by reading up in this thread. Just be sure to read carefully and get the MM logo and not the LP logo.

Wow, thank you so much for the long type up.
Duly noted and this is a great start. May I continue here if I run into any problems?
I think ima have fun with this phone
I am into tinkering with devices, "sometimes linux" etc, like my PC OS win7x64 is modified big time, so I probably will catch on with unlocking rooting etc very quickly.
I got chillz and cannot wait!

Read a lot. Do a lot of reading on the topic before trying it. Basically learn all the possible errors or negative outcomes before they happen, so your not blindsided and are ready for anything that can happen.

gokart2 said:
Read a lot. Do a lot of reading on the topic before trying it. Basically learn all the possible errors or negative outcomes before they happen, so your not blindsided and are ready for anything that can happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will do. I was reading, flashing can screw up the modem,wif and what ever else.
I hope I don't screw it up.

Hitti2 said:
Will do. I was reading, flashing can screw up the modem,wif and what ever else.
I hope I don't screw it up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good luck :good:
I just noticed one thing that might not be entirely clear in the Heisenberg thread. It says to enable adb in the Settings -> Developer Options menu, but by default you won't have a Developer Options menu.
To get one, go into Settings -> About Phone, scroll all the way to the bottom, and tap on build number about 8 or 10 times. Your phone will say something to the effect of congratulations now you're a developer, and you'll have the menu.
Edit: i just noticed it says how to enable developer options further down the page

ty, I will need it lol.
Dev options were on my S5 too. My pops showed me how to on the S5, kinda hoping it was the same way to enable them, turned out to be. Cool.

gokart2 said:
Read a lot. Do a lot of reading on the topic before trying it. Basically learn all the possible errors or negative outcomes before they happen, so your not blindsided and are ready for anything that can happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
^^^This^^^
and remember what XDA is really for ...http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=2031989
with that, enjoy all the reading, and do not be afraid to look at other sites too, there are even videos around that can help guide you...
and there are fellow members here to help...but most questions have already been asked and answered, so search first! Cheers! :highfive:

This might sound so stupid.
So, I will begin with the recommendation of installing twrp as my first step.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64545146&postcount=131
1) Be sure to get the newest TWRP that has been patched for M.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do I go on installing this TWRP? Does it include flashing TWRP to the phone? Or is an app? I don't understand.
How many ROMs can be flashed to the phone, 2? TWRP & Marshmallow?

Hitti2 said:
This might sound so stupid.
So, I will begin with the recommendation of installing twrp as my first step.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64545146&postcount=131
How do I go on installing this TWRP? Does it include flashing TWRP to the phone? Or is an app? I don't understand.
How many ROMs can be flashed to the phone, 2? TWRP & Marshmallow?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you need to do more studying and reading
TWRP is not a ROM, it is a custom recovery image, which allows you to flash ROMs.
Start here..http://androiding.how/root-moto-x-pure/
Then go here..http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...l-windroid-universal-android-toolkit-t3206883 for a good tool. (May have already been linked above...)

[Q] Where should I begin as a beginner?
At the beginning, of course.
Sorry couldn't resist...

Naddict said:
Sounds like you need to do more studying and reading
TWRP is not a ROM, it is a custom recovery image, which allows you to flash ROMs.
Start here..http://androiding.how/root-moto-x-pure/
Then go here..http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...l-windroid-universal-android-toolkit-t3206883 for a good tool. (May have already been linked above...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tyvm.
Before I proceed, I need to backup, right? How do I go forth doing a backup?
Also, I am updated on MM, does those two links above work on MM?

Hitti2 said:
Tyvm.
Before I proceed, I need to backup, right? How do I go forth doing a backup?
Also, I am updated on MM, does those two links above work on MM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
after you unlock and install custom recovery, you use TWRP (the custom recovery) to create the backup...
as you are on MM, you cannot use the "all in one" application that I provided in the link...so you will have to manually install/flash your rom

Wow im so frustrated. I think i give up. There is no guides upto date to do exactly twrp, backup, install w/e n root for ota mm.
I'll donate 30 usd via paypal if someone can.

Hitti2 said:
Wow im so frustrated. I think i give up. There is no guides upto date to do exactly twrp, backup, install w/e n root for ota mm.
I'll donate 30 usd via paypal if someone can.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Clearly you are impatient (not trying to be rude here), - XDA truly is not a place to pay for someone to do it for you, XDA is about learning and development, there are several places that a search will get you what you need. Many members have also posted links above to vast amount of information (specifically this post and this entire thread here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64183396&postcount=151 and here too http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=64311581&postcount=171) that you should take time to read and then, as you move through these things then you ask questions.
Offering to pay to have someone do it for you is really not what this site is about.
Read, do google searches...it has been done a hundred time already mate, take the time to learn what it is you are doing before actually doing it.

I dont have 400 to spare for for another phone if i brick this one because i was pointed to all kinds of mixed links. Ionno ill wait till someone comes up with a guide then.
Thanks.
Edit:
Let it be known as well, because you know how to milk a cow doesn't mean I know how to milk a cow. Or change a complete motor out of a vehicle etc.

Not being a smartarsh either. I'll prob end up like this guy https://www.reddit.com/r/MotoX/comments/3z2e6g/stuck_rooting_moto_x_pure_on_60/
And I read this, http://forums.androidcentral.com/moto-x-pure-edition/622331-6-0-marshmallow-root.html#post4899736
Dunno which one to go for.
I'm done for today, I'll come back tomorrow to upset with this.

Hitti2 said:
I dont have 400 to spare for for another phone if i brick this one because i was pointed to all kinds of mixed links. Ionno ill wait till someone comes up with a guide then.
Thanks.
Edit:
Let it be known as well, because you know how to milk a cow doesn't mean I know how to milk a cow. Or change a complete motor out of a vehicle etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=2031989
Hitti2 said:
Not being a smartarsh either. I'll prob end up like this guy https://www.reddit.com/r/MotoX/comments/3z2e6g/stuck_rooting_moto_x_pure_on_60/
And I read this, http://forums.androidcentral.com/moto-x-pure-edition/622331-6-0-marshmallow-root.html#post4899736
Dunno which one to go for.
I'm done for today, I'll come back tomorrow to upset with this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks to me like several folks in there offered suggestions on how to successfully get root ...and again, as my last helpful post here...you really need to read Heisenberg's thread, that guide works, and from what I can tell, you have to use systemless root.

Ok, I will follow
Intro
This thread will serve as a location for basic how-to guides for the Moto X Pure. I'm going to start off with a couple of the more obvious ones and go from there. If anyone has any suggestions for additions please feel free to let me know.
Prerequisites:
You'll need a working adb/fastboot environment on your PC to get through some of these guides. Go here to download the Android SDK, which will give you most updated version of adb and fastboot. Scroll to the bottom of the page and find Other Download Options>SDK Tools Only, and grab the right version for your OS. While it's downloading create a folder in C:\ called SDK (C:\SDK). Once you've downloaded the zip you can extract it into your C:\SDK folder. Navigate to C:\SDK\android-sdk-windows and open SDK Manager.exe. In SDK Manager you need to install the following packages:
Tools> Android SDK Tools, Android SDK Platform-tools
Extras> Android Support Library
Once you have installed those, inside C:\SDK you should see some new folders, one of them will be called platform-tools, within that folder you should see fastboot.exe and adb.exe. I'll refer to this as your fastboot folder/directory or working folder/directory during this guide. To make sure adb is correctly installed, open a command prompt from within your fastboot folder (hold shift + right click, select open command prompt here) and issue this command:
Code:
adb version
If it returns a version number for Android Debug Bridge then you're good to go.
You'll find Motorla drivers here, download it and install, then reboot your PC.
You can test adb by connecting your device to your PC while booted into Android (making sure that adb/usb debugging is enabled in Settings>Developer Options) with the screen unlocked and issuing this command:
Code:
adb devices
It should return your device serial number, if so, adb is working.
You can test fastboot by connecting your device to your PC while booted into fastboot mode (power + volume down) and issuing this command:
Code:
fastboot devices
It should return your device serial number, if so, fastboot is working.
By attempting any of the processes listed this thread you accept full responsibility for your actions. I will not be held responsible if your device stops working, catches on fire, or turns into a hipster and claims to have been modified before it was cool.
Index
How To Unlock Your Bootloader
How To Install A Custom Recovery On Your Device
How To Make A Nandroid Backup With TWRP Recovery
How To Root Your Stock Rom
How To Install A ROM with TWRP Recovery
How To Install A Custom Kernel With TWRP Recovery
How To Make Sure You Can Pretty Much Always Recover From An Accidentally Wiped System
1. How To Unlock Your Bootloader
Go into About Phone in Settings, click on Build Number 7 or 8 times until it says you have enabled Developer Options. Go back to Settings and enter the newly opened Developer Options section, scroll and click on the Enable OEM Unlock option.
Power off your phone then boot into fastboot mode (power + volume down).
Connect your phone to your PC via usb cable.
Open a command prompt from within your fastboot folder (navigate to where you have fastboot.exe located on your PC, shift + right click anywhere within that folder, select open command prompt here).
Check your fastboot connection by issuing this command:
Code:
fastboot devices
It should return your device serial number, if not you need to make sure your drivers are installed correctly.
Once you've confirmed your fastboot connection issue this command:
Code:
fastboot oem get_unlock_data
It should return something like this:
Code:
(bootloader) 0A40040192024205#4C4D3556313230
(bootloader) 30373731363031303332323239#BD00
(bootloader) 8A672BA4746C2CE02328A2AC0C39F95
(bootloader) 1A3E5#1F53280002000000000000000
(bootloader) 0000000
Copy that code (with no spaces between the characters) and paste it somewhere for safekeeping, you'll use it in a minute.
Go to the Motorola bootloader unlocking page. You'll need to create an account with Motorola if you don't already have one. Once you're signed in you can scroll down to step 6 and paste the above code into the text field and hit the “can my device be unlocked” button.
Read the terms and conditions and accept them if you agree (you can't continue unless you accept).
Click the “request unlock key” button and an email with your unlock token will be sent to the email account that you signed up with.
Once you have retrieved the token from the email you can use it within the following command to unlock your bootloader:
Code:
fastboot oem unlock xxxxxxxxxx
(Replace the xxxxxxxx with your unique unlock token)
Your bootloader is now unlocked!
Reboot with this command:
Code:
fastboot reboot
It's now safe to disconnect your usb cable.
Please note: this will erase all user data from your device, it is best to do this before you really start using the device and installing apps or putting data on the internal storage
2. How To Install A Custom Recovery On Your Device
Prerequisites: unlocked bootloader.
Download the recovery of your choice, here's TWRP.
Make sure you check the md5 to verify its integrity (where possible).
Place the file in your fastboot folder (this is where fastboot.exe is located on your PC).
Put the phone in fastboot mode and connect it to your PC via usb cable.
Open a command prompt from within your fastboot folder (shift + right click, select open command prompt here), and enter the following commands:
Code:
fastboot flash recovery <filename>.img
(Replace <filename> with the actual filename of the recovery, the recovery filename in the command will change depending on which recovery you're flashing)
Wait for the recovery to flash, it'll only take a few seconds, you'll get a finished message in your command prompt window once it's done.
It's now safe to disconnect your usb cable.
Don't reboot the phone normally, use the volume buttons to highlight recovery and press the power button to select it. This will stop the stock OS from patching it with the stock recovery in boot. Once you've booted into TWRP like this once, you can reboot normally.
3. How To Make A Nandroid Backup With TWRP Recovery
Prerequisites: unlocked bootloader, TWRP recovery.
A nandroid backup is a very important thing to have before installing any custom software on your device. It's basically a backup of your stock system that you can fall back on if anything goes wrong or if you just want your stock ROM back. You can also use the backup tool to create a backup of your favourite ROM set up exactly the way you like it. The backup you create can be easily restored using the restore tool in TWRP recovery.
All you need to do is enter TWRP recovery, select the backup option from the TWRP home screen, check the system/data/boot boxes, and swipe to backup. The process will take a few minutes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
& I will follow
Hello guys!
I make my own ROOT (systemless, thanks for Chainfire) images for Moto X Style with Marshmallow (build MPH24.49-18). Its use "experimental" systemless SuperSU version 2.56 - more info on http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...35&postcount=2. No need replace bootloader or recovery. Still need unlocked booloader.
Because TWRP didn't work in this version of bootloader (0xA048), I cooked "su.img" in a Linux box and used "/data/local/tmp" as bridge (accessible by ADB).
WARNING! I am not responsible for any harm on your phone. When you're not sure if you can do it, leave it!
For use, you need
1) unlocked bootloader.
2) if your bootloader not unlocked, make sure you have copy of your data, because this process will erase your device.
3) install ADB and FASTBOOT on your pc using minimal ADB or Android SDK.
4) install ADB drivers from Motorola or Universal ADB.
5) download provided files.
6) download SuperSU ver. 2.56 from http://forum.xda-developers.com/apps...ellow-t3219344.
Steps:
1) extract files in a folder of your choice (su.img, boot.img).
2) extract Superuser.apk from SuperSU-v2.56-20151030013730.zip from common folder.
3) enable USB debugging on Android.
4) connect your device on pc.
5) open a command prompt in a new folder.
6) type "adb push su.img /data/local/tmp" without quotes.
7) type "adb install Superuser.apk" without quotes.
8) now reboot your device into fastboot mode by typing "adb reboot bootloader".
9) type "fastboot flash boot boot.img" without quotes.
10) type "fastboot reboot" without quotes.
And enjoy!
Now you have a rooted MotoX Style Marshmallow. To apply any OTAs, you only need reflash stock boot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still think its going to brick but uhwell.

So far so good, I've got it unlocked.
I apologize for my ignorance. I am gonna take it a step at a time.
Doing step one "unlocking" was scary but it went good.
Wish me luck!

[Tutorial] Camera2api ( Gcam ) Without ROOT

I dont take responsibility for possible damages!​'
1. When you unlock the bootloader, all your data will be erased!
2. When you try to lock the bootloader, your data will be erased and you will lose the API.
3. YOU CAN RECEIVE OTA UPDATES WITH THE BOOTLOADER UNLOCKED!​
Download the tool: https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/mi-a2-toolkit-unlock-bootloader-root-t3834585
1. Unlock the bootloader (I will not go into detail, the tool is intuitive, follow the tool's instructions!.)
2. Start your phone and enable USB debugging.
3. Put your cellphone in Fastboot.
4. In the tool, use option 4 (This will not install TWRP, just start) (follow the tool's instructions!)
5. When entering TWRP, if prompted, check "Keep system read only".
6. Open in the tool folder "Open CMD here"
7. Run the command: adb shell
8. Now enter the following command: "setprop persist.camera.HAL3.enabled 1" without quotation marks, and enter. - This command enables the required core API for GCAM.
9. Now type "exit" to exit adb.
10. Go back to the phone, in TWRP -> Reboot -> System -> Do Not Install
Ready.
I did this tutorial quickly. Any questions, use the comments!

Just a note. That tool is working with August security patch, but a lot of us received already September Security patch. And how do you know that we will receive OTA. Did you test by yourself? And btw, looks very easy and clear explained. For now I will wait for stable patch from Xiaomi, and updated Tool from the link you recomended. Thank you.

kaiwanted said:
Just a note. That tool is working with August security patch, but a lot of us received already September Security patch. And how do you know that we will receive OTA. Did you test by yourself? And btw, looks very easy and clear explained. For now I will wait for stable patch from Xiaomi, and updated Tool from the link you recomended. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The tool just has the August picture. But the functions used for the gcam works in the September patch.
Yes. I have.

when i want to launch the TWRP, my device already plugged in and in fastboot mode, but it says "could not detect the active partition used, please ensure your phone is plugged in and in fastbook mode". How to fix this? tks

asuturo said:
when i want to launch the TWRP, my device already plugged in and in fastboot mode, but it says "could not detect the active partition used, please ensure your phone is plugged in and in fastbook mode". How to fix this? tks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm stuck at this too, i got the september update, already unlocked the bootloader but still can't install the twrp
"could not detect the active partition used, please ensure your phone is plugged in and in fastbook mode"

Rafaelboxer said:
I'm stuck at this too, i got the september update, already unlocked the bootloader but still can't install the twrp
"could not detect the active partition used, please ensure your phone is plugged in and in fastbook mode"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the September update change the active partition from A to B ( the August is A). Thats why it doesn´t work.
I´m also with September Update, and camera2api is the only thing i want to enable on Mi a2 ( don´t want to root and lose OTA) until a relliable TWRP is relleased.

This command should tell you which slot is active:
fastboot getvar current-slot

ki69 said:
I think the September update change the active partition from A to B ( the August is A). Thats why it doesn´t work.
I´m also with September Update, and camera2api is the only thing i want to enable on Mi a2 ( don´t want to root and lose OTA) until a relliable TWRP is relleased.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the september boot.img from another topic and rooted

Still no working solution for the ones that have setember update, and don´t want to root or use magisk??? I think the problem is that TWRP does not work with september update. Any easy way to downgrade to August again??

I'm thinking of installing Camera2API/GCamera, but I wonder if it's worth it. What are the real benefits? Does this make the camera compatible with more applications (eg Snapchat), avoiding them from making a screen of the camera ?

Hey guys i have some doubts.
I saw many threads saying to flash twrp into a partition (A or B) but i don't get why we have to flash it... So can someone clarify for me some stuff?
1 - fastboot boot twrp.img
I don't recall where the persist properties are stored but i believe it's not a partition that the OEM or google will constantly modify, right? So why making changes to the persist props in TWRP doesn't make it persist when booting into system? Is it possible to make it store it not temp?
Why there are people saying that flashing TWRP into, eg. part A, and booting into it, and then changing to part B, is working to enable the camera2 API? This should be the same as fastboot boot TWRP and then reboot it.
2 - As far as i remember, su permissions might be allowed in boot.img (.props file), so i thought that magisk patched image would have some su privilegies, but after booting from a patched image, su doesn't return anything. Does anyone knows what is the patched image from magisk? I heard about an app showing up after booting, so the patch is just a runnable with root?
3 - I also saw many threads changing sys build.prop directly. Horrible choice, but, does anyone knows if it possible to have a build.prop in OEM partition? From what i know, the build.prop will be concat. from all the folders related to the booting process. Has anyone tried to throw a build.prop into OEM with the persist enable? I believe that, since the folder is related to OEM only, and since we have no OEM making apps or whatever in an Android One phone, i think it is more safe than other partitions

ricardohnn said:
Hey guys i have some doubts.
I saw many threads saying to flash twrp into a partition (A or B) but i don't get why we have to flash it... So can someone clarify for me some stuff?
1 - fastboot boot twrp.img
I don't recall where the persist properties are stored but i believe it's not a partition that the OEM or google will constantly modify, right? So why making changes to the persist props in TWRP doesn't make it persist when booting into system? Is it possible to make it store it not temp?
Why there are people saying that flashing TWRP into, eg. part A, and booting into it, and then changing to part B, is working to enable the camera2 API? This should be the same as fastboot boot TWRP and then reboot it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you did a search on that 'persist' command, you'd find that it does persist, to many of the tables that type of information is stored in. It does not change the info in the properties file in 'System'. It does change the 'Data' partition, but that's okay, as there's only 1 of those (used no matters which slot boots up). The reason for booting on the non-active partition is a twrp / dual slot phone type of thing. I know it works as I've done it, but the 'setprop persist' changes the one and only Data partition, which both slots use, that's why it works.
ricardohnn said:
2 - As far as i remember, su permissions might be allowed in boot.img (.props file), so i thought that magisk patched image would have some su privilegies, but after booting from a patched image, su doesn't return anything. Does anyone knows what is the patched image from magisk? I heard about an app showing up after booting, so the patch is just a runnable with root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought the patched image would have some su capabilities also, but it doesn't. It only installs the Magisk stub, which you can further install magisk from. Magisk is a great and sophisticated app. Has numerous Magisk modules which do a wide variety of things. But if you don't need any of those things, and don't need root, it's pretty over the top for just setting the cam2api, imho.
ricardohnn said:
3 - I also saw many threads changing sys build.prop directly. Horrible choice, but, does anyone knows if it possible to have a build.prop in OEM partition? From what i know, the build.prop will be concat. from all the folders related to the booting process. Has anyone tried to throw a build.prop into OEM with the persist enable? I believe that, since the folder is related to OEM only, and since we have no OEM making apps or whatever in an Android One phone, i think it is more safe than other partitions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you change 'System' directly you will not get any OTA updates, so yer right, don't change that. There's no need to consider changing it anywhere else, as the 'setprop persist etc' command populates all the tables for you. 'System' is not affected and OTA updates will continue. There's no removing Magisk, restoring boot image, reinstalling etc etc etc.
One thing I would warn others about, using the various 'Tools'. You don't know what commands they are running, so you can't be sure what they will do. I say that because one of the tools I recently downloaded and went through and found the commands in it. The first thing it did after booting TWRP was to mount 'System' as Read / Write!! Why does that matter? From what I've read, doing that stops OTA from happening. Just mounting it R/W will change the date stamp on it concerning modifications, and that's all the OTA needs to know to say 'it's been modified'.
good luck, cheers

Agree with the data persist, but why do you need to flash into the different partition and not only boot from it?
I don't disagree that it will work, i just want to know why not boot from fastboot directly instead of flashing into one of the backup partition. I know that fastboot boot command triggers different code than usual flow. But not that i remember that it would affect something.
Getprop | grep camera would return if enabled right? Or nope?

ricardohnn said:
Agree with the data persist, but why do you need to flash into the different partition and not only boot from it?
I don't disagree that it will work, i just want to know why not boot from fastboot directly instead of flashing into one of the backup partition. I know that fastboot boot command triggers different code than usual flow. But not that i remember that it would affect something.
Getprop | grep camera would return if enabled right? Or nope?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The dual partition thing is new to everyone, I only understand bits and pieces, like everyone. But we do know there's no more 'recovery' partition, like we use to know. And we also know the way the dual works is that when an update occurs, if the device then try's to boot it and fails, it will automagically switch to the previous partition and boot it. Pretty sure we also know that booting and flashing are different with dual slot devices, but I'm not 100% sure how different.
I've tried booting twrp and just ended in bootloops. And that may be because of diff versions of TWRP, or it may be because of basic code all TWRP's have, not sure. But TWRP is a recovery, not a boot image with the proper kernel, like the patched boot images.
I do know for sure I didn't want to brick my phone (duh). So when I found a Magisk install guide, mentioned in my Guide thread, they used TWRP to install it. It sounded like an authoritative guide to me, re the part of getting TWRP to work. So I used that just to be able to run the setprop commands. Worked perfectly. Having to use the other (non active) partition **may** have something to do with avoiding triggering any automatic code to switch partitions unnecessarily, not sure, but not going to experiment any further to find out
Again, do some research on that setprop command, one of the things you'll find is that it doesn't populate all the appropriate tables until 'after' the device has been rebooted. So doing a getprop directly after doing the setprop won't work, not until it's been rebooted.
cheers

AsItLies said:
I've tried booting twrp and just ended in bootloops. And that may be because of diff versions of TWRP, or it may be because of basic code all TWRP's have, not sure. But TWRP is a recovery, not a boot image with the proper kernel, like the patched boot images.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did manage to boot the last version of TWRP only first time, every other time ended in bootloops.
And I can sorry say that ADB did not work in booted TWRP, adb did not recognized the phone, so no commands could be typed.
For me, it is easier to flash patched_boot.img and install root temporarily, and then when job is done with activating camera2, uninstall root.
But hey, there are two easy ways, and everyone can choose which one is best suitable for them to try.
It would be of course easiest to just boot TWRP and enable camera2, but it doesn't work for now.

minnuss said:
I did manage to boot the last version of TWRP only first time, every other time ended in bootloops.
And I can sorry say that ADB did not work in booted TWRP, adb did not recognized the phone, so no commands could be typed.
For me, it is easier to flash patched_boot.img and install root temporarily, and then when job is done with activating camera2, uninstall root.
But hey, there are two easy ways, and everyone can choose which one is best suitable for them to try.
It would be of course easiest to just boot TWRP and enable camera2, but it doesn't work for now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, just 'booting' twrp has been problems for everyone, "that" doesn't work (not just now, but probably never).
But, following the Guide I wrote, and 'flashing it' does work. Right Now.

AsItLies said:
The dual partition thing is new to everyone, I only understand bits and pieces, like everyone. But we do know there's no more 'recovery' partition, like we use to know. And we also know the way the dual works is that when an update occurs, if the device then try's to boot it and fails, it will automagically switch to the previous partition and boot it. Pretty sure we also know that booting and flashing are different with dual slot devices, but I'm not 100% sure how different.
I've tried booting twrp and just ended in bootloops. And that may be because of diff versions of TWRP, or it may be because of basic code all TWRP's have, not sure. But TWRP is a recovery, not a boot image with the proper kernel, like the patched boot images.
I do know for sure I didn't want to brick my phone (duh). So when I found a Magisk install guide, mentioned in my Guide thread, they used TWRP to install it. It sounded like an authoritative guide to me, re the part of getting TWRP to work. So I used that just to be able to run the setprop commands. Worked perfectly. Having to use the other (non active) partition **may** have something to do with avoiding triggering any automatic code to switch partitions unnecessarily, not sure, but not going to experiment any further to find out
Again, do some research on that setprop command, one of the things you'll find is that it doesn't populate all the appropriate tables until 'after' the device has been rebooted. So doing a getprop directly after doing the setprop won't work, not until it's been rebooted.
cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About the setprop, even after the reboot isn't returning the prop, so that's why i am not sure if it is actually keeping it after twrp boot.
About the AB partition... well...
it's more or less like this...
let's say some simple partition scheme....
Preloader
Boot
System
Vendor
ODM
Data
So the phone will probably have many boot images type... like the usual boot.img or recovery.img (before treble) etc.
The boot.img will have the kernel image bla bla bla... since this is a google update, i believe that the AB partition procedures starts here (meaning all the relevant code of checking whether is A or B)
Google wanted to make things faster for the OEM (Samsung, LG etc) so they wanted to separate their ****s from google's one.
So (if things didn't change) you will have the following partitions now (actually i am not sure if they kept the system AB, but i believe so, since it seems to be working in other phones like that )
BootA
BootB
SystemA
SystemB
VendorA
VendorB
OEMA
OEMB
Data
So let's say google wants to update some security patches, from kernel til android, it will have to update boot and system. So in a OTA (changes if it is a google phone or a branded phone) before treble, it would update like... download the image containing boot and system into cache partition or data partition (depending the OTA size), after the download the update manager apk would set as a update booting and reboot your phone. Once booted, the phone would copy the partitions to the correct place (not being detailed) and rereboot. After the rereboot, if everything went normal, it would delete the downloaded image from your data/cache partition.
Now it's different like... instead of sending the update to the data partition and copying. It has a flag to set whether you are in A or B partition.
If you are (for eg.) in A partition, it will download the OTA to the B partition. (consider that in an untouched phone, A and B would have identical copies). So after downloading it, the flag is set to the B partition and reboot the phone. When booting, this time, it will not follow the A booting flow, like...
Before the update booting process would be
BootA
SystemA
VendorA
ODMA
Data
After the update the boot process will be
BootB
SystemB
VendorB
ODMB
Data
But i didn't update the vendor or ODM... why not keep in A? Because it's too hard to manage it.
So if anything fails in this update, it can easily go back into A booting process (which means you have a backup of your old boot).
Since system is too big, i am not sure if the system AB exists (it would just take up too much space... but anyway...).
It is also not a way to prevent bootloop, it is related to update. If an update fails (say, the image is corrupted or has no signature etc) the boot will change back, but if the update is "correct" it will boot as it should, even if the image is bad.
So again... when we do the fastboot boot boot.img, we are copying this boot into some cache or data to boot up, instead of our original boot. When we reboot, it will use the original boot. So, is there a difference from using twrp flashed and booted?
I know that fastboot boot will trigger different booting process (meaning signatures verifying etc) but don't think that it will not mount a partition or something...
Well... anyway... so after the reboot, when you setprop in TWRP, the getprop returned the prop correctly? I recall something about getprop not returning the prop but camera2 was enabled anyway with the setprop... well... can you just confirm one thing for me?
The steps you used was... fastboot flash patchboot and then reboot into twrp and then reboot back to usual partition.
You didn't do fastboot boot patched boot -> twrp -> reboot
Right?
---------- Post added at 09:44 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:42 AM ----------
AsItLies said:
Yes, just 'booting' twrp has been problems for everyone, "that" doesn't work (not just now, but probably never).
But, following the Guide I wrote, and 'flashing it' does work. Right Now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh didn't see this one. OK...
Damn... hmm... strange... well thanks anyway...
---------- Post added at 09:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:44 AM ----------
AsItLies said:
The dual partition thing is new to everyone, I only understand bits and pieces, like everyone. But we do know there's no more 'recovery' partition, like we use to know. And we also know the way the dual works is that when an update occurs, if the device then try's to boot it and fails, it will automagically switch to the previous partition and boot it. Pretty sure we also know that booting and flashing are different with dual slot devices, but I'm not 100% sure how different.
I've tried booting twrp and just ended in bootloops. And that may be because of diff versions of TWRP, or it may be because of basic code all TWRP's have, not sure. But TWRP is a recovery, not a boot image with the proper kernel, like the patched boot images.
I do know for sure I didn't want to brick my phone (duh). So when I found a Magisk install guide, mentioned in my Guide thread, they used TWRP to install it. It sounded like an authoritative guide to me, re the part of getting TWRP to work. So I used that just to be able to run the setprop commands. Worked perfectly. Having to use the other (non active) partition **may** have something to do with avoiding triggering any automatic code to switch partitions unnecessarily, not sure, but not going to experiment any further to find out
Again, do some research on that setprop command, one of the things you'll find is that it doesn't populate all the appropriate tables until 'after' the device has been rebooted. So doing a getprop directly after doing the setprop won't work, not until it's been rebooted.
cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh by the way, i saw one part
"But TWRP is a recovery, not a boot image with the proper kernel, like the patched boot images. "
I think this is wrong (at least if TWRP team didn't change stuff), but all images are bootable images... (by all images i mean... boot.img recovery.img Flashing.img).
I once thought that they used a common kernel image, but in fact, all the booting process image has the kernel image copied (literally) to prevent brick. So even with a corrupted boot img, you still can boot into recovery or into download mode.
So that's why TWRP must have a kernel.

@ricardohnn, you seem hell bent on getting twrp to boot. Good luck. Let me know how that works out for you. In the meantime I'll be enjoying my cam2api working
cheers

AsItLies said:
@ricardohnn, you seem hell bent on getting twrp to boot. Good luck. Let me know how that works out for you. In the meantime I'll be enjoying my cam2api working
cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually TWRP boots fine with fastboot boot...
ADB runs smooth, but it just won't keep.
But you've made me envy LOL
I will think about flashing... later...

ricardohnn said:
Actually TWRP boots fine with fastboot boot...
ADB runs smooth, but it just won't keep.
But you've made me envy LOL
I will think about flashing... later...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What version of TWRP did you use, there is now two versions, I used last one, from a few days ago, and in first try I did manage to boot from fastboot, not flash it, but ADB did not worked.
So, if adb did work for you, maybe it was earlier version ?
Anyway, as you say, it is not permanent setprop, maybe because the twrp is not stable one, or maybe it needs to be flashed to work, not just booted.
I personally do not have doubts that this tutorial works, I just did not want to flash twrp. :good:

Very simple way to enable cam2api using patched_image

Not even going to keep this for the learning experience, it's not worth it.

Hi! Tks for you suport.
I have 2 questions if you can help me. I´m a noob for this phone, but i used to update mu Xperia with Remix and i unsdestand a little bit of installing costum firmware.
1- Do we need after this to install again stock boot.img? Because i read in were and MIUI forum that patch boot.img will not give OTA updates.
But installing stock will not remove Camera2api also?
2- I Have V9.6.13.0.ODIMIFE ( second september update) i try to seach for patch boot.img for A2 in were, but i only find the full stock image
in https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824849
I read what you said about teaching to fishing rather give a fish, but if for this thime you could put the link, in future updates we all will be more confortable do do other updates.
Kind regards

ki69 said:
1- Do we need after this to install again stock boot.img? Because i read in were and MIUI forum that patch boot.img will not give OTA updates.
But installing stock will not remove Camera2api also?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ki, this is a great example of where one needs to look carefully at the command, and do some research. If you look closely the code says "boot" patched_boot. The point there is that it doesn't say "flash". Booting it won't flash it. That command will read it from your hard drive into rom memory of the device, and NOT write it to the flash memory of the device. I.E. The boot.img on the device will not change, so no reason to flash it again.
ki69 said:
2- I Have V9.6.13.0.ODIMIFE ( second september update) i try to seach for patch boot.img for A2 in were, but i only find the full stock image
in https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/fastboot-xiaomi-mi-a2-fastboot-images-t3824849
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bring up all the topics in the MiA2 Guide(s) forum. At the top right is "Search This Forum". So... obviously... type in; patched_boot.
The first thread, OTA Jasmine (etc) has many posts with links to specific versions of (magisk) patched_boot images. (hint; search that thread also if you don't want to page through the posts!) - and don't forget to thank (use thank button!) cpkv5 for his efforts of extracting the boot.img and patching it for everyone, and making it available for easy download!

AsItLies said:
So to enable Cam2API w/out root, and continue to get OTA updates;
1) You need to be familiar with using ADB and FASTBOOT. Pls look at easily searchable documentation for them. Have them installed and usable on your pc / laptop. Try some of the commands out before using this guide, to get use to them / verify working.
2) You have to unlock the bootloader, which will wipe the device. It will also have to stay unlocked, which means your phone will be considered 'uncertified' in Play Store. Because we don't have NFC, and I don't do any banking apps on my phone... no worries for me.
3) You need the patched_boot.img for your current software version. The patched image (and the original boot image) are readily available. Just search the MiA2 forums and you'll find numerous links to new and previous images for the various software versions that have existed for our MiA2's.
So, you should already know how to enable adb and to OEM unlock in developer options (pls SEARCH if not!). So make an adb connection to do:
Code:
adb devices
The above will verify your pc sees the phone, obviously.
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
The above is an easy way to get to fastboot mode.
Code:
fastboot devices
The above will verify fastboot sees our device
Code:
fastboot oem unlock
The above unlocks the bootloader and wipes / reboots device. Again recheck to be sure in Dev options adb is on.
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Above to get back to fastboot mode.
Code:
fastboot boot patched_boot.img
The above will now boot the device. Be sure the patched boot image is in the directory you are issuing the command from, and again, it needs to be the patched image that corresponds to the current software version you are using.
At this point, I'd recommend to not do anything with the device. It should be booted and appear normal. Back at our command prompt;
Code:
adb devices
Assuming we still see our device:
Code:
adb shell
The above will now put our command prompt into a linux shell, and then type the following:
Code:
setprop persist.camera.HAL3.enabled 1
and then
Code:
setprop persist.camera.eis.enable 1
At this point, it's about done. The above settings will get propagated to the appropriate tables after rebooting the device. They won't change system settings. So OTA updates should work.
Next, we just type 'exit' in the command prompt to exit the adb shell. Lastly we again issue 'adb reboot bootloader' and once we're back into fastboot, just issue 'fastboot reboot'.
That's it. We never flashed anything, only booted the patched image. So nothing really gets touched, that could inhibit OTA updates. When we do the reboot, it will read the original (untouched) boot image and boot as normal. This also keeps us from touching the other 'Slot' (not really needed). This is much simpler than using TWRP imho.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANKS MATE, I REACHED TO FINAL STAGE & BOOTED IN TO THE PATCHED IMAGE BUT
AFTER putting command prompt into a linux shell it gives error failed to set property. please help i am awiting your reply.

Abbey Bhatt said:
THANKS MATE, I REACHED TO FINAL STAGE & BOOTED IN TO THE PATCHED IMAGE BUT
AFTER putting command prompt into a linux shell it gives error failed to set property. please help i am awiting your reply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I saw that Abbey, just updated the original post. At this point pls use the TWRP method I mentioned in similar thread. That works for sure.
I thought the Magisk patched boot image would have the same abilities (in this sense) as twrp, but it seems it does not. Will update if I find a solution.

Abbey Bhatt said:
THANKS MATE, I REACHED TO FINAL STAGE & BOOTED IN TO THE PATCHED IMAGE BUT
AFTER putting command prompt into a linux shell it gives error failed to set property. please help i am awiting your reply.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hey mate after rebooting, magisk appeared in app drawer, did i flashed patched boot image. by using this code? please advise

AsItLies said:
Ki, this is a great example of where one needs to look carefully at the command, and do some research. If you look closely the code says "boot" patched_boot. The point there is that it doesn't say "flash". Booting it won't flash it. That command will read it from your hard drive into rom memory of the device, and NOT write it to the flash memory of the device. I.E. The boot.img on the device will not change, so no reason to flash it again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, i didn´t read carefully, but my question has because i read that we need magisk after put patche boot.img, then enable, then remove magisk then flash stock boot.img
I read that you update the firt post informing of the need of that.
AsItLies said:
Bring up all the topics in the MiA2 Guide(s) forum. At the top right is "Search This Forum". So... obviously... type in; patched_boot.
The first thread, OTA Jasmine (etc) has many posts with links to specific versions of (magisk) patched_boot images. (hint; search that thread also if you don't want to page through the posts!) - and don't forget to thank (use thank button!) cpkv5 for his efforts of extracting the boot.img and patching it for everyone, and making it available for easy download!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, i only find this one:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=77295065&postcount=22
that have magisk, but with that like i said before i will mess with system/root, the thing i did´t want. so for me is not the path i want to take. I prefer the patch you give in:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/guide-enable-cam2api-root-t3848058
And because is a diferente path i think that that thread should be reopen by mods.

Abbey Bhatt said:
hey mate after rebooting, magisk appeared in app drawer, did i flashed patched boot image. by using this code? please advise
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It shouldn't have flashed it, should have just booted it. I just uninstalled the magisk in app drawer myself. It looks as though a part of the magisk patched boot image installs that 'stub' part of magisk, to then allow a full install I'm sure. So that seems to happen whether you flash it or boot it.

ki69 said:
Yes, i didn´t read carefully,
Sorry, i only find this one:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're looking in the ROM forums, not the indicated GUIDES forum.

AsItLies said:
It shouldn't have flashed it, should have just booted it. I just uninstalled the magisk in app drawer myself. It looks as though a part of the magisk patched boot image installs that 'stub' part of magisk, to then allow a full install I'm sure. So that seems to happen whether you flash it or boot it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hey i am now wish to follow method presented in this thread
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/guide-enable-cam2api-root-t3848058
but at stage of fastboot getvar currdent-slot
it showing failed. no any partition showed

Abbey Bhatt said:
hey i am now wish to follow method presented in this thread
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a2/how-to/guide-enable-cam2api-root-t3848058
but at stage of fastboot getvar currdent-slot
it showing failed. no any partition showed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what's going on. When I do the same the result is:
fastboot getvar current-slot
current-slot: b
Finished. Total time: 0.000s
Did you flash it by mistake instead of boot it? Have you tried to do a 'fastboot set_active' ?

AsItLies said:
Not sure what's going on. When I do the same the result is:
fastboot getvar current-slot
current-slot: b
Finished. Total time: 0.000s
Did you flash it by mistake instead of boot it? Have you tried to do a 'fastboot set_active' ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Humble request,
If you don't know about device or appropriate procedure don't post irrelevant things. As I know this device is tricky and more chances for hard brick if something goes wrong.

Abbey Bhatt said:
Humble request,
If you don't know about device or appropriate procedure don't post irrelevant things. As I know this device is tricky and more chances for hard brick if something goes wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
out and out flagrant request, if you can't follow directions, don't even try what is suggested.
There's no way anything I indicated would brick a phone. I've done it. Mine is not bricked. As indicated the setprop commands won't work with patched boot image. Then all you have to do is exactly what the procedure says and it's back to normal.
You're the reason people don't bother to post guides.
I do know about device and relevant procedure, it's not irrelevant. Your inability is what's irrelevant.

AsItLies said:
out and out flagrant request, if you can't follow directions, don't even try what is suggested.
There's no way anything I indicated would brick a phone. I've done it. Mine is not bricked. As indicated the setprop commands won't work with patched boot image. Then all you have to do is exactly what the procedure says and it's back to normal.
You're the reason people don't bother to post guides.
I do know about device and relevant procedure, it's not irrelevant. Your inability is what's irrelevant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hero how's your age how long been in this you are the people who doesn't know things and phones and wage all around being as op. Now cut this crappy out and first learn and then come for advice.

Abbey Bhatt said:
Hero how's your age how long been in this you are the people who doesn't know things and phones and wage all around being as op. Now cut this crappy out and first learn and then come for advice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sorry you screwed up your device. But it's not my fault. Nothing I indicated, if followed, would have caused that.
I'd suggest quitting the childish attempts at personal attacks. Your problems are not my fault.

@oka1 Hi again, sorry, this is the 2nd time! Please close this thread, and delete if possible. It' no longer provides any benefit.
Thanks! Won't happen again.