Flash 10.3.0 Incremental--Magisk? - OnePlus 6T Questions & Answers

Currently running 10.0.1 with Magisk, and would like to flash the incremental 10.3.0.
Can I do this safely by restoring the boot image from Magisk, flashing the incremental via local, reboot and reflash Magisk via fastboot? Do I need a patched boot img to flash Magisk via fastboot, and is there such a thing for 10.3.0?
Anything I might be overlooking, or is there a safe and better way?
Here are the instructions for Magisk. Truly, incremental upgrade is a no-no.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6t/how-to/official-oxygenos-9-0-4-ota-oneplus-6t-t3860953

pbergonzi said:
Currently running 10.0.1 with Magisk, and would like to flash the incremental 10.3.0.
Can I do this safely by restoring the boot image from Magisk, flashing the incremental via local, reboot and reflash Magisk via fastboot? Do I need a patched boot img to flash Magisk via fastboot, and is there such a thing for 10.3.0?
Anything I might be overlooking, or is there a safe and better way?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't flash incremental, root and bootloader unlocked mean FULL OTA (1.8 GB file)
Why people like to make it complicated?
Go to the source and read A/B devices section here
https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tutorials.md
No you don't need to restore stock boot img! This is only meant for devices that perform a boot integrity check before OTA! This it not the case of OnePlus phones.
Flash OTA local upgrade, don't reboot, go to Magisk manager, 'click' install Magisk and choose 'inactive slot' then reboot! No need to torture yourself with fastboot, gosh.
How many times will it be necessary to repeat basics.
This is written in OOS 10.x x thread in Guide section, third post.
This is the way we do updates since months,, and it will be the same with next OOS update no need to ask

Striatum_bdr said:
You can't flash incremental, root and bootloader unlocked mean FULL OTA (1.8 GB file)
Why people like to make it complicated?
Go to the source and read A/B devices section here
https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tutorials.md
No you don't need to restore stock boot img! This is only meant for devices that perform a boot integrity check before OTA! This it not the case of OnePlus phones.
Flash OTA local upgrade, don't reboot, go to Magisk manager, 'click' install Magisk and choose 'inactive slot' then reboot! No need to torture yourself with fastboot, gosh.
How many times will it be necessary to repeat basics.
This is written in OOS 10.x x thread in Guide section, third post.
This is the way we do updates since months,, and it will be the same with next OOS update no need to ask
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks--read the Magisk tutorial, won't have to ask again.
I asked this time because I couldn't find the FULL, just the Incremental.
Also, I looked through what seemed to be relevant guides per your recommendation, but did not find the one I think you are mentioning--would you please link it here?
It will be helpful to others as well as me.

https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6t/how-to/official-oxygenos-9-0-4-ota-oneplus-6t-t3860953
Post 3
It won't help anybody as this conversation will be lost in the limbs in a few hours.

Striatum_bdr said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6t/how-to/official-oxygenos-9-0-4-ota-oneplus-6t-t3860953
Post 3
It won't help anybody as this conversation will be lost in the limbs in a few hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HAHAHA--I've already forgotten which one you posted. Thank you--I'm posting it in my question also.

Related

On Magisk root, Oreo, I accepted OTA October security patch and did a bit a of a mess

Started the update, phone rebooted to TWRP. Selected system reboot.
It rebooted correctly. Now Magisk appears not to be installed, Magisk Manager asks me if I want to install Magisk 14.0 (the install button is active) but at the same time it says I have 14.0 installed.
I have no root anymore and the system update says "Verification problem", in red, and offers the option to "Try again".
Clearly I did something quite wrong. How can I go back to have Magisk installed correctly, with root, but at the same time take advantage of security updates?
Thanks in advance. I'm starting a new thread because I keep on seeing posts related to Nougat or earlier and I don't know if something has changed with Oreo (plus I'm actually not finding clear instructions on how to proceed, anyway).
Hmmm... ok, I'm back to where I started. I reinstalled Magisk from Magisk Manager, now I'm back to root enabled and Safety Net Check Success.
If there's a clear guide on how to update for monthly security patches, I'd really appreciated a link. Thanks again.
gorman42 said:
Hmmm... ok, I'm back to where I started. I reinstalled Magisk from Magisk Manager, now I'm back to root enabled and Safety Net Check Success.
If there's a clear guide on how to update for monthly security patches, I'd really appreciated a link. Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3206928
Option #9
Inviato dal mio Nexus 6P utilizzando Tapatalk
Is it correct to follow point 9 of this guide? https://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6p/general/guides-how-to-guides-beginners-t3206928
I am probably simply too thick to understand but when I read "new build of stock ROM" I did not think it could apply to simple monthly security updates.
CyberZeus1977 said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3206928
Option #9
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. So I need to do this for every monthly security update, correct? Sorry for the previous message but I wrote while you were writing.
gorman42 said:
Thanks. So I need to do this for every monthly security update, correct? Sorry for the previous message but I wrote while you were writing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome. It is what I did every month.
Use thanks button if I helped you! [emoji16]
Inviato dal mio Nexus 6P utilizzando Tapatalk
Things I've discovered that might be useful for people reaching this discussion through a search:
1) Contrary to what the guide linked in previous posts here states, there's no userdata.img file in the factory download. I have angler-opr5.170623.007-factory-b4c75d12.zip and the included image-angler-opr5.170623.007.zip file does not contain userdata.img. This is not so important, considering that you do NOT want to flash that file. But still, if you read the guide and wonder what's wrong, the answer is nothing wrong. I completed the process without any problem.
2) If you follow the guide you'll lose custom recovery (you flash recovery.img after all) and root. I used adb and fastboot to reinstall TWRP (downloaded the latest from here: https://eu.dl.twrp.me/angler/) by using:
adb reboot bootloader
and then once in the bootloader (which must be unlocked):
fastboot flash recovery C:\angler\twrp-3.1.1-0-angler.img
After the custom recovery has been flashed you want to restart the device directly in recovery, otherwise it gets overwritten at first boot (you do that by keeping VOL+ and POWER pressed).
3) After flashing back Magisk, and having Magisk Manager already installed, I found all the modules I had installed were there, root permissions were kept, etc. It's quite likely normal and expected. But, for somebody going through the process for the first time, it was a nice surprise.
I write all this not because it's something new or special... I realize that I might have gathered the relevant information first by searching more thoroughly and being a little bit more brave. But I'm always scared to do something irreparable, so... my findings above are simply a way for me to give something back to the community.
Cheers!
I've found that flashfire from chainfire to be the easiest (not that adb and fastboot are difficult) way to update month to month. I'd still recommend being familiar with adb and fastboot. Having the current factory image on a pc and your device is a good idea as well.
Flashfire
https://forum.xda-developers.com/general/paid-software/flashfire-t3075433
ffejy462 said:
I've found that flashfire from chainfire to be the easiest (not that adb and fastboot are difficult) way to update month to month. I'd still recommend being familiar with adb and fastboot. Having the current factory image on a pc and your device is a good idea as well.
Flashfire
https://forum.xda-developers.com/general/paid-software/flashfire-t3075433
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup, I use flashfire along with 4core boot image fix for bootlooping devices.
It is an absolute delight to be able to flash inbuilt ota without downloading 1gb of stuff just for a security patch.

Why no root yet ?

First off I am not criticizing the amazing XDA developers here, and all the people that help make root and ROM's happen.
This is aimed at Essential the company themselves
I was under the impression the Essential Phone was sort of like a Pixel, or Nexus, or OnePlus type of phone. Meaning running a near stock Android OS, an unlocked device, easily rooted. For example when a new OnePlus phone is released, root is out super fast. But the reason the Essential Phone has not been rooted yet is because of Essential holding back the factory images on us still. I guess I have to ask why would Essential do this ? I thought they touted this phone as a open platform, very similar in idea to the old Nexus line ?
The Essential Phone has been out 2 months now, and the important files for rooting still have not been officially released to the public yet ? What's up with Essential holding back so long ?
https://ibb.co/mgaVcb Mine ist rooted
Z-Fire821 said:
https://ibb.co/mgaVcb Mine ist rooted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Last I read was the boot image that was pulled didn't enable root with magisk and hadn't seen anything more from it. Did you have to do anything specifically?
Z-Fire821 said:
https://ibb.co/mgaVcb Mine ist rooted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interedasting.
It'd be great if you could provide further proof/instructions.
Thanks a bunch.
There was a thread about someone working on LOS earlier this week but now I don't see it. Can't remember the user's name but he said that he had TWRP (no touchscreen though) working on the ROM, and posted some screenies of it booted and invited anyone who wanted to develop to his Discord. The same person was over on the /essential thread too on reddit too but now I don't see that thread either.
The Essential staff did an AMA over there yesterday too but noone asked about releasing the source code to my knowledge. I'm not sure what's going on. They'd sell more phones if people knew they are ROM friendly.
*Found the thread here:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/essential-phone/help/bootloader-root-t3695583
kchino said:
There was a thread about someone working on LOS earlier this week but now I don't see it. Can't remember the user's name but he said that he had TWRP (no touchscreen though) working on the ROM, and posted some screenies of it booted and invited anyone who wanted to develop to his Discord. The same person was over on the /essential thread too on reddit too but now I don't see that thread either. Maybe it was a Larp ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The Essential staff did an AMA over there yesterday too but noone asked about releasing the source code to my knowledge. I'm not sure what's going on. They'd sell more phones if people knew they are ROM friendly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty sure the staff that did the AMA was just the design staff, not software staff. As soon as the files are released it will take about a day I bet for root. I remember seeing a thread on reddit that you are referring to as well. I think the people who can root it won't until the files are released. One **** up and they have a very expensive brick.
Thanks for the replies. So any idea as to when this source code image files will get released from Essential ? What's their holdup ?
Agreed, dicey proposition with no factory images.
We have devs working on it. Root has been achieved and there's a TWRP build but the touchscreen doesn't work you have to use a mouse to navigate. Also, there's no factory images yet to go back to stock in case of a problem. Once they iron out the issues I'm sure someone will release a guide.
Currently on the Nexus 6P, that's getting bad. I really want the Essential phone, but only if root comes out for sure, also ROM's would be great.
Otherwise I may just wait for the OnePlus 5T announcement, and if it's $500 go that route instead. At least the 5T will have good development
Z-Fire821 said:
https://ibb.co/mgaVcb Mine ist rooted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man how did u root?? I really wanna root
I rooted with this Guide from the Discord Server from bmg1001: "In order to flash Magisk, you'll need the Magisk zip, TWRP, the stock boot image, and A USB OTG MOUSE (used to control TWRP for the moment). Boot into the stock recovery and perform a factory reset, then reboot into the bootloader. You need to flash TWRP via "fastboot flash boot twrp-mata.img". Once flashed, you need to boot into TWRP via the bootloader menu. When you boot into TWRP, move the Magisk zip and stock boot image into the phone's storage. Then, flash the boot image within TWRP, then flash Magisk."
Z-Fire821 said:
I rooted with this Guide from the Discord Server from bmg1001: "In order to flash Magisk, you'll need the Magisk zip, TWRP, the stock boot image, and A USB OTG MOUSE (used to control TWRP for the moment). Boot into the stock recovery and perform a factory reset, then reboot into the bootloader. You need to flash TWRP via "fastboot flash boot twrp-mata.img". Once flashed, you need to boot into TWRP via the bootloader menu. When you boot into TWRP, move the Magisk zip and stock boot image into the phone's storage. Then, flash the boot image within TWRP, then flash Magisk."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you provide the file for TWRP and boot img?
drocny87 said:
Can you provide the file for TWRP and boot img?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just join the Discord Server and load it from there.
Z-Fire821 said:
I rooted with this Guide from the Discord Server from bmg1001: "In order to flash Magisk, you'll need the Magisk zip, TWRP, the stock boot image, and A USB OTG MOUSE (used to control TWRP for the moment). Boot into the stock recovery and perform a factory reset, then reboot into the bootloader. You need to flash TWRP via "fastboot flash boot twrp-mata.img". Once flashed, you need to boot into TWRP via the bootloader menu. When you boot into TWRP, move the Magisk zip and stock boot image into the phone's storage. Then, flash the boot image within TWRP, then flash Magisk."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks
---------- Post added at 08:57 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:53 PM ----------
Z-Fire821 said:
Just join the Discord Server and load it from there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's the link to it?
ROOT
Guys, if you truly, truly want to root your device, follow these steps. Just remember, I am not responsible if you end up bricking your device (and neither are the main developers currently working on TWRP and Lineage). YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT YOU DO ON YOUR OWN DEVICE! (also this probably voids warranty btw)
THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR NMJ20D.
Now, one more thing. Remember, this TWRP build is very much in alpha stages and there are some major bugs with it, including no touch support and no crypto. Also, when I rooted, I had to use my USB OTG Mouse in order to maneuver around TWRP, but with this method, hopefully anyone can do it, without the mouse. The boot.img I will provide is the NMJ20D boot.img with the patches that Magisk puts in when you install it, so it's not exactly stock. Also, you might need to factory reset your device via the stock recovery (and make sure not to boot it back up until after you flash Magisk) just in case, since TWRP is buggy with crypto atm.
You can find a dump of NMJ20D here, in case you need to fix a bootloop (due to a bad Substratum theme, etc...) -- (you'll likely need only boot_a.img and system_a.img (within the system_a.zip).
If you wish to return to stock in order to accept OTAs, feel free to flash the unofficial factory images here and, should OTAs still fail, you may be required to wipe your data, which can be done via "fastboot -w". (Side Note: I believe the script included within the unofficial factory images also flashes the firmware to both partitions, so if your fingerprint sensor is seemingly absent or not working, this might actually fix it, as it has for some custom ROMs on the Essential.
Anyways, lets get started!
Make sure to download Magisk v14.3 and the alpha build of TWRP. Also, make sure to grab my boot.img with the Magisk stuff in it. And of course, your bootloader must be unlocked.
1. Reboot your Essential into fastboot mode. Once in fastboot mode, flash TWRP via
Code:
fastboot flash boot twrp-mata.img
2. Then, from within the fastboot menu, go to "recovery mode" and select it. After TWRP has booted up, type
Code:
adb shell twrp sideload
and then
Code:
adb sideload magisk.zip
3. Once Magisk finishes installing completely, reboot back to fastboot. Now that you're back in fastboot, flash the boot.img I provided via the good ol' command
Code:
fastboot flash boot boot_a.img
4. Now reboot! You should now have root and stuff via Magisk!
Appreciate the root guide, guess I can pick one of these up now to play around with. Awesome!!
[
Anyways, lets get started!
Make sure to download Magisk v14.3 and the alpha build of TWRP. Also, make sure to grab my boot.img with the Magisk stuff in it. And of course,
2. Then, from within the fastboot menu, go to "recovery mode" and select it. After TWRP has booted up, type and then
3. Once Magisk finishes installing completely, reboot back to fastboot. Now that you're back in fastboot, flash the boot.img I provided via the good ol' command
4. Now reboot! You should now have root and stuff via Magisk![/QUOTE]
I followed the whole guide, got to the side loading, and I couldn't get magisk to side load..
shooterlgk said:
[
Anyways, lets get started!
Make sure to download Magisk v14.3 and the alpha build of TWRP. Also, make sure to grab my boot.img with the Magisk stuff in it. And of course,
2. Then, from within the fastboot menu, go to "recovery mode" and select it. After TWRP has booted up, type and then
3. Once Magisk finishes installing completely, reboot back to fastboot. Now that you're back in fastboot, flash the boot.img I provided via the good ol' command
4. Now reboot! You should now have root and stuff via Magisk!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I followed the whole guide, got to the side loading, and I couldn't get magisk to side load..[/QUOTE]
What happens when you attempt to sideload Magisk? Does the adb sideload prompt on TWRP pop-up correctly after running "adb shell twrp sideload"?
bmg1001 said:
I followed the whole guide, got to the side loading, and I couldn't get magisk to side load..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What happens when you attempt to sideload Magisk? Does the adb sideload prompt on TWRP pop-up correctly after running "adb shell twrp sideload"?[/QUOTE]
I should of took a picture cuz I can't remember but it does give me an error tho ..I'm gonna retry when I get home from work but I literally sat there for almost 3 hours attempting to root to no success

[How-To] Applying Monthly Security Patches if you're Rooted (Magisk)

So, since once a month I find myself having to click a bunch of links and read how to do a bunch of commands, I wanted to create a thread that (rather generically) explains how to manually flash the OTA monthly updates if you're rooted with Magisk. So, minimally, here's a thread for me to review every month... if it helps you all out, all the better!
Pre-requisites:
Download Latest OTA zip file from Google.
Obtain the STOCK boot.img (required) and dtbo.img (optional) of the System ROM you are currently running. This can be done if you already have the full System Image file downloaded, downloading it currently, or just obtaining the stock boot and dtbo image files elsewhere. (NOTE: This can be skipped if you successfully uninstall Magisk BEFORE you start the process and choose to restore the Stock images in the uninstall process.)
Download Latest Magisk Zip file
Download latest TWRP recovery image
If applicable, have latest USB drivers, adb/fastboot/ files etc.
Preparation:
1) Extract or open the Full Image file and locate the boot.img and dtbo.img files. You will want these on your PC in the platform-tools folder (I usually put the Month name at the beginning, ex. - Jan_boot.img). Again, you can skip if you successfully uninstall Magisk prior to all of this.
2) Copy your OTA zip file to the platform-tools folder, again naming it after the month helps (ex. - Feb_Pixel2XL_OTA.zip)
3) Put your TWRP recovery in platform-tools folder.
4) Place the latest Magisk zip on your Pixel's internal storage (what used to be the SDCard on phones so equipped).
Commands:
1) From PC, open command prompt and change directory to your platform-tools folder.
2) If your phone is on, "adb reboot bootloader" If powered off, press power and Vol Down button to get to Bootloader. Plug your phone into your PC.
3) [If Magisk is not uninstalled first] Command: fastboot flash boot {Name_of_boot.img File}
4) [If Magisk is not uninstalled first] Command: fastboot flash dtbo {Name_of_dtbo.img File}
5) On your phone, hit Vol Down until you see Recovery, then press power button.
6) Once in recovery mode, press power and Vol Up to bring up menu
7) Scroll to item: "Apply update from ADB" and press power
8) Command: adb sideload {Name_of_OTA.zip file}
9) After the OTA finishes flashing, exit recovery back into the Bootloader
10) Command: fastboot boot {twrp_filename.img}
11) Install Magisk Zip file (and any other Zip files you want installed... Kernels, etc.) within TWRP
Then after flashing your zip files, reboot to system and you should be all set.
I believe everything above is correct, but if I've made a glaring mistake, please let me know. I also realize there may be other methods to this madness, but this is what works for me.
With this method do you have to worry about removing your password from your phone before you try to go into twrp?
uofirob said:
With this method do you have to worry about removing your password from your phone before you try to go into twrp?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. Mine is set to pin, which I had to put in and it let me finish.
Sweet. I'll give this method a try tonight!
WorldOfJohnboy said:
Yes. Mine is set to pin, which I had to put in and it let me finish.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for this. Just to be clear in step 2 under prerequisites you say more on this later. Then in step 1 for preparation you prefix your boot and dtbo with Jan xx.img. I get what your saying, but for the newer noobs they may get confused. Maybe reword to say, extract or open the factory image your currently using or the previous months image. Obviously you do this first so that you can sideload the ota. I don't mean any disrespect.
I believe you also need remove the -w from the end of the .bat file after you extract the OTA; otherwise, all of your data will be wiped.
But great job of getting all this info in one place!
So I did this, and now I'm bootlooping. I guess I'll re-flash the Jan factory image and wait a little longer... **UPDATE** I fixed the bootloop by re-trying the process again (after re-verifying the MD5 hash on the update.zip. I rebooted after installing the update,
but before the TWRP flash to install MAGISK. Maybe this allowed the "update"
to finish processing. I also had to remove the pin from my lock screen in order to allow me to get into twrp. After rebooting into the system and removing the pin, I adb reboot bootloader and then flashed twrp. Thanks for the guide!
---------- Post added at 07:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:50 AM ----------
PuffDaddy_d said:
I believe you also need remove the -w from the end of the .bat file after you extract the OTA; otherwise, all of your data will be wiped.
But great job of getting all this info in one place!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need to remove the -w from the .bat file since you aren't using it at all to do the update. That is only if you're flashing your factory image.
Fe Mike said:
Thank you for this. Just to be clear in step 2 under prerequisites you say more on this later. Then in step 1 for preparation you prefix your boot and dtbo with Jan xx.img. I get what your saying, but for the newer noobs they may get confused. Maybe reword to say, extract or open the factory image your currently using or the previous months image. Obviously you do this first so that you can sideload the ota. I don't mean any disrespect.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I changed some wording under prerequisite...
I agree with everything on this guide...
just teasing...
I'm actually glad you created this thread...I wanted to create one also and try and help out as much as I could, but I don't have the cahones and didn' t think I had experience enough to start a "guide" thread :silly:
I mean no disrespect, but this seems awful complicated compared to just flashing the full image with the removed (-w). Especially since your downloading it anyway. I do that then boot the TWRP image and flash the TWRP zip. Reboot into recovery and flash kernel and magisk and reboot system. Again I'm asking for clarity, not dumping on you. Great write up btw!
CyberpodS2 said:
I mean no disrespect, but this seems awful complicated compared to just flashing the full image with the removed (-w). Especially since your downloading it anyway. I do that then boot the TWRP image and flash the TWRP zip. Reboot into recovery and flash kernel and magisk and reboot system. Again I'm asking for clarity, not dumping on you. Great write up btw!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well...I can't speak for the OP, but I wrote my extremely similar identical one because, for whatever reason, many users would choose OTAs over flashing full factory images. I/me & you understand the benefits of the factory images over the OTAs; especially understanding the process you must go through to install the OTAs as-of-current is almost the same as flashing the factory images anyways...
But if I were to give a possible explanation to their reasoning is that, like many of them, I come from a non-Google phone (S5 for me), and OTA's were simpler, takes less bandwidth (which still remains true today), they were significantly simpler to install vs. factory images, and with a lot of popular phones you only flash factory images to recover your phone; i.e. muniz_ri's OTA's for the S5 and FlashFire were loads simpler than flashing a whole factory image. But, again, understanding the difference for Pixel 2 and Oreo's OTA & factory images (or the small difference thereof), it's probably better to do a few extra steps and/or downloads to do the whole image than sideloading an OTA.
In the end, this is for people who insist for OTA updates most likely because that's how they are familiar (and therefore more comfortable) with; whether it being explained to them or not...
Cheers!:good:
Fair enough, thanks for the input!
CyberpodS2 said:
I mean no disrespect, but this seems awful complicated compared to just flashing the full image with the removed (-w). Especially since your downloading it anyway. I do that then boot the TWRP image and flash the TWRP zip. Reboot into recovery and flash kernel and magisk and reboot system. Again I'm asking for clarity, not dumping on you. Great write up btw!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It may seem awful complicated, but to be honest, to me is less complicated than having to edit a script file (which if you forget to do, will lose all of your data). Also, though the steps I wrote out seem like a lot more if you were to write out a process using the full image, it actually works out to be almost the same number of steps.
Lastly, as someone else hinted at, the OTA file size is smaller. The only full image you need is what you are currently running (which in most cases I have on my phone in case the sh__ hits the fan with my phone), not the new full image. (To be even more precise, you only need the boot.img and dtbo.img from the full image file--there may be places to get just those two files out there.)
As I put in the last sentence, I realize there are other methods to this madness, this is basically what works for me. I wanted to get it in writing so I wouldn't forget this down the road, and if it helps anyone here, just icing on the cake. Clearly I'm no Dev and not forcing anyone to perform the updates this way!
WorldOfJohnboy said:
It may seem awful complicated, but to be honest, to me is less complicated than having to edit a script file (which if you forget to do, will lose all of your data). Also, though the steps I wrote out seem like a lot more if you were to write out a process using the full image, it actually works out to be almost the same number of steps.
Lastly, as someone else hinted at, the OTA file size is smaller. The only full image you need is what you are currently running (which in most cases I have on my phone in case the sh__ hits the fan with my phone), not the new full image. (To be even more precise, you only need the boot.img and dtbo.img from the full image file--there may be places to get just those two files out there.)
As I put in the last sentence, I realize there are other methods to this madness, this is basically what works for me. I wanted to get it in writing so I wouldn't forget this down the road, and if it helps anyone here, just icing on the cake. Clearly I'm no Dev and not forcing anyone to perform the updates this way!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey bud, wonder I I could pick your brain just a little. When doing monthly Google updates, are most of their proprietary files located in the boot, dtbo, and vendor images?? Your posts have intrigued me a little, and are very well written BTW. My reasoning is this. On my old 6p, about all we needed to do was flash the new vendor, and of course the bootloader and radio if there were any worthwhile improvements. Would the same possibly apply to the P2XL?? I'm just wondering because, now that we're starting to see custom roms, if this would be a viable option, and simplify the updating process. Thank again for your great write up ??
Badger50 said:
Hey bud, wonder I I could pick your brain just a little. When doing monthly Google updates, are most of their proprietary files located in the boot, dtbo, and vendor images?? Your posts have intrigued me a little, and are very well written BTW. My reasoning is this. On my old 6p, about all we needed to do was flash the new vendor, and of course the bootloader and radio if there were any worthwhile improvements. Would the same possibly apply to the P2XL?? I'm just wondering because, now that we're starting to see custom roms, if this would be a viable option, and simplify the updating process. Thank again for your great write up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll be perfectly honest with you, I haven't taken a dive to see what is in the OTA files and would imagine that it varies depending on the monthly updates.... that said, the only reason why I have stated to re-flash the stock boot.img is because if you are rooted with Magisk, it takes the stock boot.img and modifies it. In order to take an OTA sideload, you need to be on stock boot.img and stock recovery. dtbo is only in my process because there was one time when I tried to sideload and my dtbo wasn't stock (or corrupt). You may not need to flash the stock dtbo.img, but it doesn't hurt to do so.
WorldOfJohnboy said:
I'll be perfectly honest with you, I haven't taken a dive to see what is in the OTA files and would imagine that it varies depending on the monthly updates.... that said, the only reason why I have stated to re-flash the stock boot.img is because if you are rooted with Magisk, it takes the stock boot.img and modifies it. In order to take an OTA sideload, you need to be on stock boot.img and stock recovery. dtbo is only in my process because there was one time when I tried to sideload and my dtbo wasn't stock (or corrupt). You may not need to flash the stock dtbo.img, but it doesn't hurt to do so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm really happy to see our device has graduated to this level of discussion, instead of the random guessing and 14 different "possible" routes to a solution. Lol
Custom roms abound, once TWRP gets squared away and someone master's the art of turning monthly updates into zip installs we'll pretty much be there!
Btw OP, great write up... Clear and precise!
I do not understand the purpose for downloading the full system image and then flashing only the OTA zip - what am I missing? There is a widely distributed method for performing monthly OTA updates by uninstalling Magisk, updating OTA normally, then flashing Magisk again - seems much simpler, any reason why it would not work?
Brenneke said:
I do not understand the purpose for downloading the full system image and then flashing only the OTA zip - what am I missing? There is a widely distributed method for performing monthly OTA updates by uninstalling Magisk, updating OTA normally, then flashing Magisk again - seems much simpler, any reason why it would not work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Downloading the full system image is not required. You only need the Stock versions of boot.img (required) and dtbo.img (optional) of the ROM version your phone is currently running. I actually keep a full system image on my phone in case something goes awry.
I'm going to update the OP to more clearly state that you only need the stock boot.img file--how you obtain it is up to you. Uninstalling Magisk will do the same exact thing, however I tried to do that a couple of months ago and it created more issues for me than if I had just flashed the stock boot.img in the first place.
WorldOfJohnboy said:
Downloading the full system image is not required. You only need the Stock versions of boot.img (required) and dtbo.img (optional) of the ROM version your phone is currently running. I actually keep a full system image on my phone in case something goes awry.
I'm going to update the OP to more clearly state that you only need the stock boot.img file--how you obtain it is up to you. Uninstalling Magisk will do the same exact thing, however I tried to do that a couple of months ago and it created more issues for me than if I had just flashed the stock boot.img in the first place.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have not tried the uninstall Magisk method but plan to do so at next update. What kind of issues did it create for you?
Thanks.
Brenneke said:
I have not tried the uninstall Magisk method but plan to do so at next update. What kind of issues did it create for you?
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For some reason, I don't think it restored the correct (or not corrupted) boot.img version. Then, there were remnants of the Magisk APK and other files so I ended up having to do a full TiBu of my apps and flashed (with wipe) a full System image. It may have been something I did or just my bad luck, but I prefer not to chance it and instead manually flash the Stock image as my "guide" here states.

Foolproof way for OTA-update with Magisk installed

Now that a new OTA is available, and like many others like myself have rooted the A1 with Magisk, I am looking for a foolproof way to update.
Remembering the last (March) OTA, when a lot of people complained about difficult, I wonder if someone has found a good way.
I remember 2 approaches:
1) follow the flow from here: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tips.md#ota-installation-tips
or
2) uninstall Magisk completely, maybe even re-lock the phone, and start from the beginning as outlined here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a1/how-to/root-mi-a1-oreo-8-0-disabling-ota-magisk-t3728654
What is your experience or recommendation?
Tiemichael said:
Now that a new OTA is available, and like many others like myself have rooted the A1 with Magisk, I am looking for a foolproof way to update.
Remembering the last (March) OTA, when a lot of people complained about difficult, I wonder if someone has found a good way.
I remember 2 approaches:
1) follow the flow from here: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tips.md#ota-installation-tips
or
2) uninstall Magisk completely, maybe even re-lock the phone, and start from the beginning as outlined here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a1/how-to/root-mi-a1-oreo-8-0-disabling-ota-magisk-t3728654
What is your experience or recommendation?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey!
Following the official Magisk procedure works, at least for me.
You just have to be careful to restore backup image before starting the OTA download and installing to second slot (After OTA) before rebooting.
Reading this thread:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a1/how-to/root-mi-a1-oreo-8-0-disabling-ota-magisk-t3728654
I found there’s a lot of confusion (I was confused also and made a few mistakes), but my conclusions are:
- That method is to be used just ONCE in order to gain root, and not every month.
- Always try to use your own patched image if you have the opportunity
- You have to use “fastboot BOOT” and not “fastboot FLASH” when first rooting, otherwise you won’t be able to restore boot image and OTA will fail
- Follow official procedure as a cooking recipe
If you don’t want to root using a patched boot image, you can also use latest TWRP (As of now latest is recovery-3.2.1-2-oreo.img)
https://forum.xda-developers.com/mi-a1/development/recovery-twrp-3-1-1-0-touch-recovery-t3688472
And boot to TWRP image in order to install Magisk ZIP (did this yesterday and also worked), but the update via OTA method should be the same.
Best regards.
Personally I just did this:
1) Uninstall magisk (remember to save modules you want to save etc.)
2) Reflash stock boot.img (march update) via fastboot (in the correct booting partition)
3) Relock bootloader
4) Update
5) Unlock bootloader
5) Booting in new april patched_boot.img
6) install Magisk.
official magisk method didn't work for me
Keeping phone to stock and not rooting for only one OTA in more than a month? I think its not worth it!!
I always root my phone and when OTA arrives i just flash twrp version of it and root it again ?
Siebenmik said:
Personally I just did this:
1) Uninstall magisk (remember to save modules you want to save etc.)
2) Reflash stock boot.img (march update) via fastboot (in the correct booting partition)
3) Relock bootloader
4) Update
5) Unlock bootloader
5) Booting in new april patched_boot.img
6) install Magisk.
official magisk method didn't work for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wondering "2) Reflash stock boot.img (march update) via fastboot (in the correct booting partition) " should be identical to "Restore Images" in Magisk Uninstall
I think updating can be done without "locking bootloader " and "un-locking bootloader"
What do you think?
I'm following the very simple Magisk OTA update guide and I have been able to update system via OTA for several months already. No rocket science there, as long as you don't mess with system partition (e.g. do NOT allow system modification in TWRP), you are good to go. I even used it successfully with custom kernel (Franco kernel)..
_mysiak_ said:
I'm following the very simple Magisk OTA update guide and I have been able to update system via OTA for several months already. No rocket science there, as long as you don't mess with system partition (e.g. do NOT allow system modification in TWRP), you are good to go. I even used it successfully with custom kernel (Franco kernel)..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you referring to this guide https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tips.md#ota-installation-tips?
Tiemichael said:
Are you referring to this guide https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/blob/master/docs/tips.md#ota-installation-tips?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, exactly. I didn't have any issue with OTA installation yet.
Tiemichael said:
Just wondering "2) Reflash stock boot.img (march update) via fastboot (in the correct booting partition) " should be identical to "Restore Images" in Magisk Uninstall
I think updating can be done without "locking bootloader " and "un-locking bootloader"
What do you think?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I forgot saying that using restore image in magisk didn't work. Even though I didn't flash the patched boot.
https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/...tallation-tips
This process works every time if you have enabled secured startup.. If secured startup is disabled then you will get bootloop..
coolkoushik07 said:
https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/...tallation-tips
This process works every time if you have enabled secured startup.. If secured startup is disabled then you will get bootloop..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where to enable secured startup?
Skeuomorphic said:
Where to enable secured startup?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
create a pattern from security setting and it will prompt to enable secure startup.. just press yes..
coolkoushik07 said:
https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/...tallation-tips
This process works every time if you have enabled secured startup.. If secured startup is disabled then you will get bootloop..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Finally a different answer, I have secure boot disabled maybe this is the reason ending into bootloop for past 3 montly security updates. Will try this for May update.
coolkoushik07 said:
https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/...tallation-tips
This process works every time if you have enabled secured startup.. If secured startup is disabled then you will get bootloop..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where can I find 'secured startup' ?
Sorry, for the maybe stupid question ....
Tiemichael said:
Where can I find 'secured startup' ?
Sorry, for the maybe stupid question ....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Settings->Security & Location->Screen lock->Pattern
This what was working for me just now:
Detailed steps performed 20.4.2018:
Backup Titanium
Backup Magisk Modules
Switch on Secured Booting (e.g. Pin) => not same a normal pin!
Open Magisk
Uninstall Magisk​
Restore Images​
Start OTA update
Downlowd​
Step1​
Step2​
Go Back to Magisk
Install to 2nd slot​
Reboot​
It was working ... very easy!
I can confirm that topjohnwu's official ota tips do work with the Mi A1, but you must have secure booting enabled.
I didn't update my phone for a very long time, then I decided to finally go for the latest MIUI on my Mi Max and basically I flashed full new ROM via fastboot & MiPhone.
You can see detailed description here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=78050983&postcount=41
I think it should work with other Xiaomi phones too but please correct me if I'm wrong
The only difference is that I had SuperSu before, but maybe with Magisk it's the same to do - also correct me if i'm wrong
quetzalcoatl2435 said:
I can confirm that topjohnwu's official ota tips do work with the Mi A1, but you must have secure booting enabled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THERE IS AN ALTERNATIVE WAY.
Advantages:
-100% working. Absolutely no problem with unrooting.
-secure booting doesn't have to be enabled.
Disadvantages:
-Installed modules will be lost. I don't know how to back them up.
H.A.L. 9000 said:
---------------------HOW TO UPDATE-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you will receive the update the only thing you need to do is boot twrp, flash magisk unistaller (that you can find here ) and update.
1. type this to boot your recovery (REMEMBER TO COPY THE RECOVERY IMG INTO THE FASTBOOT FOLDER)
Code:
fastboot boot recovery-3.2.1-2-oreo.img
2. flash magisk unistaller from recovey
3. Update your system
4. Repeat the same procedure to root again your device.
If you are italian and you need any help you can find it here, the serious telegram community.
https://t.me/XiaomiMiA1Italia
Special thanks to @samuele94 and @TheRealajeje from the telegram group.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
freekarol said:
THERE IS AN ALTERNATIVE WAY.
Advantages:
-100% working. Absolutely no problem with unrooting.
-secure booting doesn't have to be enabled.
Disadvantages:
-Installed modules will be lost. I don't know how to back them up.
---------------------HOW TO UPDATE-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you will receive the update the only thing you need to do is boot twrp, flash magisk unistaller (that you can find here ) and update.
1. type this to boot your recovery (REMEMBER TO COPY THE RECOVERY IMG INTO THE FASTBOOT FOLDER)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, but you need a PC for this. If I need access to a PC every time there's an OTA update, might as well download and flash a full ROM. ?
Official Magisk OTA guide works anytime anywhere, no PC needed.

OTA Update for Rooted/Bootloader Unlocked

Hey all, just wanted to try and combine the bits and pieces of the "how to update OTA for rooted/BL unlocked" phones into one place as a quick run down for myself (and others who might have the same question) for the OTA:
Grab OTA update manually
Uninstall Edge Sense Mod from Magisk
Plug in phone into PC
adb reboot recovery
adb fastboot flash "stock boot.img"
adb sideload "OTA file name"
Reboot to bootloader using the volume and power button
adb fastboot flash "patched image to inactive slot (no idea how yet, sorry! Will add command)"
Reboot phone
Go back into Magisk and install manager for root
Re-install Edge Sense Mod within Magisk
*Optional*Re-apply Magisk Hide
Please let me know if there's any steps I'm missing or how it could be made easier for others to understand and if there's credit(s) missing (10+ hr shift and running on strong tea only 11 hr shift arguing with doctors to actually provide care instead of leeching insurance, and insurance to pay the damn medical claims instead of baton passing them to patients).
Disclaimer:
I'm no developer, just a common user that wants to make it a bit more convenient for other Pixel 3a owners to OTA update while rooted/BL unlocked. If it didn't work, or you encountered error(s), let me know and I can link them in so others can learn.
Disclaimer 2:
The above step(s) is assuming you've used pbanj's method for getting Magisk. Apparently I should add this as there's the "conventional" and "unconventional" method for Magisk. Had no idea since there was no guide available informing people otherwise at the time of making this step-by-step guide.
Credits:
pbanj for Pixel 3a root and Magisk images saving a MASSIVE some time, and its thread for the above steps.
googlephoneFKLenAsh for details of what I was missing in my initial steps.
sic0048 for making the root confusion apparent, and making a modified boot image method (the pbanj Magisk) here and his guide for rooting here.
Wdenton said:
Hey all, just wanted to try and combine the bits and pieces of the "how to update OTA for rooted/BL unlocked" phones into one place as a quick run down for myself (and others who might have the same question) for the OTA:
Grab OTA update manually
Uninstall Edge Sense Mod from Magisk
Plug in phone into PC
adb reboot recovery
adb sideload "OTA file name"
Reboot to bootloader using the volume and power button
fastboot flash "patched image"
Reboot phone
Go back into Magisk and install manager for root
Re-install Edge Sense Mod within Magisk
*Optional*Re-apply Magisk Hide
Please let me know if there's any steps I'm missing or how it could be made easier for others to understand and if there's credit(s) missing (10+ hr shift and running on strong tea only).
Disclaimer:
I'm no developer, just a common user that wants to make it a bit more convenient for other Pixel 3a owners to OTA update while rooted/BL unlocked.
Credits:
pbanj for Pixel 3a root and Magisk images saving a MASSIVE amount of time, and its thread for the above steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before step 5, you need to fastboot flash stock boot.img before doing "adb sideload ota file".
I think step 7 should specify flashing patched image to inactive slot, (a or b), so as to be on the new active slot after a reboot, (step 8).
---------- Post added at 08:33 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:28 AM ----------
googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Before step 5, you need to fastboot flash stock boot.img before doing "adb sideload ota file".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I followed the op procedure and it worked without flashing the stock boot image. To what slot would you flash the stock image, active slot or inactive slot? Can it be flashed to old slot after step 8 reboot? Would there be any benefit?
I'm not sure why people insist that using the "modified" boot images make the update process faster or easier..... I assure you it does not.
Here is the update process if you install Magisk the normal way......
- Magisk: Click “Uninstall” → “restore images” → NO REBOOT
- Download and install OTA → NO REBOOT
- Clear all apps from recents (probably not even needed, but better to be safe than sorry).
- Magisk: Click “Install” → “Install to second/inactive slot (After OTA)”
- Reboot
That's all......... and it's all done from the phone. No computer or ADB is required for updates.
Tell me how that is harder than your method or how your method saves "a MASSIVE amount of time"?????
Look, I'll be the first to admit that using the modified boot images does make the initial root process easier and faster - by a few steps and about 2 minutes of time. But you will pay for it when it comes time to update your phone.
sic0048 said:
I'm not sure why people insist that using the "modified" boot images make the update process faster or easier..... I assure you it does not.
Here is the update process if you install Magisk the normal way......
- Magisk: Click “Uninstall” → “restore images” → NO REBOOT
- Download and install OTA → NO REBOOT
- Clear all apps from recents (probably not even needed, but better to be safe than sorry).
- Magisk: Click “Install” → “Install to second/inactive slot (After OTA)”
- Reboot
That's all......... and it's all done from the phone. No computer or ADB is required for updates.
Tell me how that is harder than your method or how your method saves "a MASSIVE amount of time"?????
Look, I'll be the first to admit that using the modified boot images does make the initial root process easier and faster - by a few steps and about 2 minutes of time. But you will pay for it when it comes time to update your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Forgive me sic0048. You helped me in another post but I feared doing the initial step, magisk-uninstall-restore images. My reading of these forums indicates there is no stock image to restore since it was overwritten by the patched image during the initial root process. It is the transition from using patched images to doing a normal Magisk install that I lack knowledge of.
alliance1975 said:
Forgive me sic0048. You helped me in another post but I feared doing the initial step, magisk-uninstall-restore images. My reading of these forums indicates there is no stock image to restore since it was overwritten by the patched image during the initial root process. It is the transition from using patched images to doing a normal Magisk install that I lack knowledge of.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great point, difference between downloading a patched boot image vs patching yourself is not clear as to how it affects the OTA update...
alliance1975 said:
Forgive me sic0048. You helped me in another post but I feared doing the initial step, magisk-uninstall-restore images. My reading of these forums indicates there is no stock image to restore since it was overwritten by the patched image during the initial root process. It is the transition from using patched images to doing a normal Magisk install that I lack knowledge of.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I totally understand the confusion......
If you use normal Magisk installation method where you let Magisk modify the stock boot.img file, then the OTA update method that I described above should work. Because you let Magisk modify the stock boot image, it will be able to use the stock image in the first step - Magisk: Click “Uninstall” → “restore images” → NO REBOOT
If you used the "modified boot image" method, you were able to skip the step where you let Magisk modify the stock boot image. This saves time initially, but it comes back to bit you during an OTA update because Magisk is unable to use the stock image to uninstall itself. You are correct that the normal Magisk "How to Take an OTA Update" instructions will fail if you used the modified boot image to gain root initially.
I guess I didn't realize that you had used the "modified boot image" method. Here is my recommendation to all those that have used the modified boot image method - start over.........
- use the Magisk manager app to Uninstall Magisk using the "Complete Uninstall" method.
- Pull the stock boot.img from the applicable factory image (whatever OS version/update you are currently on). Downloads are available here https://developers.google.com/android/images
- Using your computer, flash the stock boot.img file by using the command "fastboot flash boot boot.img"
- Reinstall Magisk using the "normal" method....
- Put the stock boot.img file on your phone's root SD card location
- Use the Magisk manager app to modify the stock boot.img
- move the magisk_modified boot image to your computer
- flash the magisk_modified boot image to the boot partition using the command "fastboot flash boot <patched_boot.img file name>"
- reboot
Then follow the instructions I gave for the normal OTA update process listed a couple posts above.
---------- Post added at 02:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:14 PM ----------
duh1 said:
Unless I'm misunderstanding the process, seems like Magisk is missing a checkbox to backup the unpatched boot image prior to creating a patched image, for future OTA updates...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Magisk isn't missing this option, it's just that the method suggested by pbanj in this thread bypasses the normal method. It's not an issue with Magisk, it's an issue with the root method being suggested.
What I really need to do is create another "How to Root" thread and list the normal and recommended method. The confusion comes from people coming to this site and reading pbanj's thread and thinking that is the correct way to root. It is not the correct way to root.
alliance1975 said:
I think step 7 should specify flashing patched image to inactive slot, (a or b), so as to be on the new active slot after a reboot, (step 8).
---------- Post added at 08:33 AM ----------
I followed the op procedure and it worked without flashing the stock boot image. To what slot would you flash the stock image, active slot or inactive slot? Can it be flashed to old slot after step 8 reboot? Would there be any benefit?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Normally you would flash the stock boot image to the active slot to unroot the phone prior to installing the OTA.
Confused as to why flashing stock boot is no longer necessary. If this works as stated, it would appear the OTA is no longer patching the phone's boot and system partitions as had been done in the past. So perhaps the OTA now installs full boot and system images?
duh1 said:
Normally you would flash the stock boot image to the active slot to unroot the phone prior to installing the OTA.
Confused as to why flashing stock boot is no longer necessary. If this works as stated, it would appear the OTA is no longer patching the phone's boot and system partitions as had been done in the past. So perhaps the OTA now installs full boot and system images.
If that is indeed the case we should be able to just install the OTA normally through the system update button without having to uninstall Magisk and get rid of root first. Then as the Magisk tutorial states cancel the reboot go into the Magisk manager and reroot. Has anyone tried this on a rooted phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had read, but have not confirmed myself, that the OTA images did include the boot and system img. However I just checked and the factory image for the June update on Bonito is 1.6gb while the "full OTA" image is only 1.1gb. So the two images are not identical. It's not like you saving a bunch of time by not uninstalling Magisk first and I don't think I would skip this simple step with the hope it would work. I'll continue to follow the recommended procedure that the Magisk developer has come up with and I would recommend to others that they do the same.
sic0048 said:
I had read, but have not confirmed myself, that the OTA images did include the boot and system img. However I just checked and the factory image for the June update on Bonito is 1.6gb while the "full OTA" image is only 1.1gb. So the two images are not identical. It's not like you saving a bunch of time by not uninstalling Magisk first and I don't think I would skip this simple step with the hope it would work. I'll continue to follow the recommended procedure that the Magisk developer has come up with and I would recommend to others that they do the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's smaller as the OTA only contains the partitions that have changed such as system and boot. The other partitions are probably cloned over from the active slot to the inactive slot.
As I mentioned previously, the Magisk tutorial does not account for not having a backup of the stock boot image when you download the patched boot, so to remove boot prior to installing the OTA, you must manually flash the stock boot.
googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Before step 5, you need to fastboot flash stock boot.img before doing "adb sideload ota file".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
alliance1975 said:
I think step 7 should specify flashing patched image to inactive slot, (a or b), so as to be on the new active slot after a reboot, (step 8).
---------- Post added at 08:33 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:28 AM ----------
I followed the op procedure and it worked without flashing the stock boot image. To what slot would you flash the stock image, active slot or inactive slot? Can it be flashed to old slot after step 8 reboot? Would there be any benefit?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before step 5, flash stock boot.img to slot a (or just use getvar to get the current active slot. It should be slot a before first ota). If you don't flash stock boot img, you will get error message "E: Failed to verify package compatibility".
I think you didn't get this message because you actually restored stock boot.img when you uninstalled magisk. For those who rooted their phone by flashing patched boot.img, magisk doesn't know the location of stock boot.img.
Then in step 7, flash patched boot.img to slot b (after ota, the active changes to slot b. If there is new ota in the future, just use getvar to find out the active slot)
sic0048 said:
I'm not sure why people insist that using the "modified" boot images make the update process faster or easier..... I assure you it does not.
Here is the update process if you install Magisk the normal way......
- Magisk: Click “Uninstall” → “restore images” → NO REBOOT
- Download and install OTA → NO REBOOT
- Clear all apps from recents (probably not even needed, but better to be safe than sorry).
- Magisk: Click “Install” → “Install to second/inactive slot (After OTA)”
- Reboot
That's all......... and it's all done from the phone. No computer or ADB is required for updates.
Tell me how that is harder than your method or how your method saves "a MASSIVE amount of time"?????
Look, I'll be the first to admit that using the modified boot images does make the initial root process easier and faster - by a few steps and about 2 minutes of time. But you will pay for it when it comes time to update your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sic0048 said:
I totally understand the confusion......
If you use normal Magisk installation method where you let Magisk modify the stock boot.img file, then the OTA update method that I described above should work. Because you let Magisk modify the stock boot image, it will be able to use the stock image in the first step - Magisk: Click “Uninstall” → “restore images” → NO REBOOT
If you used the "modified boot image" method, you were able to skip the step where you let Magisk modify the stock boot image. This saves time initially, but it comes back to bit you during an OTA update because Magisk is unable to use the stock image to uninstall itself. You are correct that the normal Magisk "How to Take an OTA Update" instructions will fail if you used the modified boot image to gain root initially.
I guess I didn't realize that you had used the "modified boot image" method. Here is my recommendation to all those that have used the modified boot image method - start over.........
- use the Magisk manager app to Uninstall Magisk using the "Complete Uninstall" method.
- Pull the stock boot.img from the applicable factory image (whatever OS version/update you are currently on). Downloads are available here https://developers.google.com/android/images
- Using your computer, flash the stock boot.img file by using the command "fastboot flash boot boot.img"
- Reinstall Magisk using the "normal" method....
- Put the stock boot.img file on your phone's root SD card location
- Use the Magisk manager app to modify the stock boot.img
- move the magisk_modified boot image to your computer
- flash the magisk_modified boot image to the boot partition using the command "fastboot flash boot <patched_boot.img file name>"
- reboot
Then follow the instructions I gave for the normal OTA update process listed a couple posts above.
---------- Post added at 02:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:14 PM ----------
Magisk isn't missing this option, it's just that the method suggested by pbanj in this thread bypasses the normal method. It's not an issue with Magisk, it's an issue with the root method being suggested.
What I really need to do is create another "How to Root" thread and list the normal and recommended method. The confusion comes from people coming to this site and reading pbanj's thread and thinking that is the correct way to root. It is not the correct way to root.
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googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Before step 5, flash stock boot.img to slot a (or just use getvar to get the current active slot. It should be slot a before first ota). If you don't flash stock boot img, you will get error message "E: Failed to verify package compatibility".
I think you didn't get this message because you actually restored stock boot.img when you uninstalled magisk. For those who rooted their phone by flashing patched boot.img, magisk doesn't know the location of stock boot.img.
Then in step 7, flash patched boot.img to slot b (after ota, the active changes to slot b. If there is new ota in the future, just use getvar to find out the active slot)
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googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Before step 5, you need to fastboot flash stock boot.img before doing "adb sideload ota file".
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Thanks to all, was not expecting this much reply in this short amount of time, at all.
I made this step by step guide because no dedicated thread really was readily accessible in one place. Hopefully this inspires others to make guides.
googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Before step 5, flash stock boot.img to slot a (or just use getvar to get the current active slot. It should be slot a before first ota). If you don't flash stock boot img, you will get error message "E: Failed to verify package compatibility".
I think you didn't get this message because you actually restored stock boot.img when you uninstalled magisk. For those who rooted their phone by flashing patched boot.img, magisk doesn't know the location of stock boot.img.
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How else could the phone have been rooted besides flashing a patched boot image on a device without a custom recovery, such that Magisk on his device knows where to find the stock boot image?
duh1 said:
How else could the phone have been rooted besides flashing a patched boot image on a device without a custom recovery, such that Magisk on his device knows where to find the stock boot image?
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Learn how to read a few posts in this thread.
Root method 1: install magisk, patch the stock boot image, then flash the patched boot image to gain root. Magisk knows where the stock boot image is. In this case, just follow the instructions to take ota: uninstall magisk to restore stock boot image and take ota, then reroot.
Root method 2: flash patched boot image provided by someone in the forum, then install magisk to get root. In this case Magisk doesn't have a backuped stock boot image. So the regular instructions of uninstalling Magisk to restore stock boot image doesn't work and you need to manually flash stock boot image to take ota.
googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Learn how to read a few posts in this thread.
Root method 1: install magisk, patch the stock boot image, then flash the patched boot image to gain root. Magisk knows where the stock boot image is. In this case, just follow the instructions to take ota: uninstall magisk to restore stock boot image and take ota, then reroot.
Root method 2: flash patched boot image provided by someone in the forum, then install magisk to get root. In this case Magisk doesn't have a backuped stock boot image. So the regular instructions of uninstalling Magisk to restore stock boot image doesn't work and you need to manually flash stock boot image to take ota.
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Difference is downloading the patched image vs patching it yourself. Wasn't clear how that created the issue. Well written, thx for pointing it out.
So if anyone patches the new version boot image before uninstalling Magisk, they'll get an error. Likewise, patching the current boot image in the manager will allow the uninstall to work correctly...
googlephoneFKLenAsh said:
Learn how to read a few posts in this thread.
Root method 1: install magisk, patch the stock boot image, then flash the patched boot image to gain root. Magisk knows where the stock boot image is. In this case, just follow the instructions to take ota: uninstall magisk to restore stock boot image and take ota, then reroot.
Root method 2: flash patched boot image provided by someone in the forum, then install magisk to get root. In this case Magisk doesn't have a backuped stock boot image. So the regular instructions of uninstalling Magisk to restore stock boot image doesn't work and you need to manually flash stock boot image to take ota.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you dont need to restore stock to update. the restore is only needed if you want the phone to handle the update. if you sideload the ota in adb it updates fine then you can just flash the new patched boot image. also fun little fact, even if you use the pre-patched images you can still use magisk's internal update method. you just have to do one simple thing....... grab the stock boot.img for your current update, and tell magisk to patch it, it will create the stock backup and then you can just use the magisk update method. i've been meaning to add that to my thread but i've been busy and having some health problems so i haven't been on here in a few days.
pbanj said:
you dont need to restore stock to update. the restore is only needed if you want the phone to handle the update. if you sideload the ota in adb it updates fine then you can just flash the new patched boot image. also fun little fact, even if you use the pre-patched images you can still use magisk's internal update method. you just have to do one simple thing....... grab the stock boot.img for your current update, and tell magisk to patch it, it will create the stock backup and then you can just use the magisk update method. i've been meaning to add that to my thread but i've been busy and having some health problems so i haven't been on here in a few days.
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Sorry for the health issues. Take care and get well soon.
Thank you for this post. I was getting confused about the ADB sideload of OTA (which, iirc, didn't work on unlocked BL on my last phone), which you said does work on the 3a. My last phone was the N5X and despite Magisk being available, I stayed with SuperSu (which worked for me as well as suhide and FlashFire). The dual slot is new to me; I think my MOTO Z3 Play has that (I'm not unlocking that one atm) so it really doesn't matter.
If I fastboot flashed the patched boot.img to slot_b, then the next time I flash any boot.img, I will have to direct it to slot_a [fastboot flash boot_a boot.img]? I guess I'll learn as I go along. Next, I'll take current stock boot.img and tell magisk to patch it.
ritchea said:
Sorry for the health issues. Take care and get well soon.
Thank you for this post. I was getting confused about the ADB sideload of OTA (which, iirc, didn't work on unlocked BL on my last phone), which you said does work on the 3a. My last phone was the N5X and despite Magisk being available, I stayed with SuperSu (which worked for me as well as suhide and FlashFire). The dual slot is new to me; I think my MOTO Z3 Play has that (I'm not unlocking that one atm) so it really doesn't matter.
If I fastboot flashed the patched boot.img to slot_b, then the next time I flash any boot.img, I will have to direct it to slot_a [fastboot flash boot_a boot.img]? I guess I'll learn as I go along. Next, I'll take current stock boot.img and tell magisk to patch it.
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Click to collapse
ya pretty much. every time the phone updates the active slot changes. I'm currently updating my root thread so everything is clearer and in one place.
pbanj said:
you dont need to restore stock to update. the restore is only needed if you want the phone to handle the update. if you sideload the ota in adb it updates fine then you can just flash the new patched boot image. also fun little fact, even if you use the pre-patched images you can still use magisk's internal update method. you just have to do one simple thing....... grab the stock boot.img for your current update, and tell magisk to patch it, it will create the stock backup and then you can just use the magisk update method. i've been meaning to add that to my thread but i've been busy and having some health problems so i haven't been on here in a few days.
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Click to collapse
Just to be sure, sideloading bypasses the OTA package compatibility verification that would give an error during normal update if it detects wrong boot version?
duh1 said:
Just to be sure, sideloading bypasses the OTA package compatibility verification that would give an error during normal update if it detects wrong boot version?
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correct. i had no issue with it, and i friend is the one who told me about it as that's how she installs her updates even though she could use the magisk method

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