Related
Basic concepts, how-to'sThis thread is a work in progress. If you would like to contribute information or have ideas for what should be added please PM me.
Disclaimer "just because i am trying to be helpful does not make me responsible for anything that you do to your phone. playing with any of this stuff could destroy your phone"
I am not a dev, but I have been flashing on Samsung phones since the international S2 came out. I also spend a ton of time reading the forums and researching what I don't know. I would like to give back to the community in some way and I hope that this post can help the noobs not brick their devices, as well as keep them from being overly annoying to the members and developers here by posting in the wrong places and asking dumb questions.
Some basic rules if you are a noob and don't want to turn your phone into a brick.
1. be patient. don't be the first or even the tenth person to flash anything. wait until you see others using whatever Rom or kernel with success.
2. If you have any doubts about what you are doing, read more. don't flash.
3. make sure you are in the forum for your device, not some similar or related device.
Some basic rules for these forums
1. If you have a question, the first thing to do is look it up yourself. that means searching the forums first, then searching Google.
2. If after searching you can't find an answer, then post in the q&a forum
3. don't report bugs unless you are using an intact version of whatever Rom, if you have changed kernels, installed a ton of apps etc it probably isn't a bug, it's a bad combo or its you.
4. don't report bugs unless you are 150% sure that no one has reported it yet.
5. if you report a bug, make sure you can duplicate it first, then get a logcat of the problem so you can help (see below for logcat info)
Why flash?
by flashing your device you can make your phone act differently, look different, and enable new or disabled options. you could ,for example:
enable native tethering
enable call recording
change the look of your phone
add custom toggle buttons
overclock or undervolt
increase battery life
etc..
Kernel vs Rom vs Recovery vs Modem
Kernel is the layer between the phone hardware and the rom. it controls things like Wi-Fi power, touch sensitivity, possible range of screen brightness, phone logging, and processor max and min speed. kernel must be designed not only for your device but also for the type of rom you are using (Sammy rom or Aosp) some kernels support all roms, others are specific.
Rom is the operating system of your phone. there are three main categories of roms.
roms that are based off of the Samsung stock rom (Sammy rom)
roms that are based off of Android open source project aka AOSP (AOSP, AOKP)
roms based off of the miui project (these used to be a branch of AOSP but recently they have also used Sammy base for miui)
recovery is a partition that you can access at boot by holding down a combination of keys. (volume up and home button in the case of our sgs3) every phone has recovery stock but it doesn't do much. you can replace stock with clockwork mod recovery which is extremely useful for flashing all kinds of things and making backups before you do. There are other alternative recoveries besides clockwork but that seems to be the most common. TWRP is also gaining popularity these days, especially on the sgs3. You can easily switch between recoveries and or upgrade your current recovery. All that needs to happen is for a new image to be flashed onto the recovery partition. See the rooting guide for more info on how to flash a custom recovery.
modem is a file that controls the cell radio of the phone. helps determine what frequencies to use and settings for a particular network. It is important when flashing a radio that you flash a radio that is for the AT&T sgs3 as flashing the radio from another carrier has been known to cause problems with the IMEI
Methods for flashing files - Odin vs mobile Odin vs. clockworkmod(cwm) vs adb
Odin is the internal Samsung tool for flashing. I believe it only exists on Windows platform. This tool is mostly used to initially flash an insecure kernel or rooted kernel, OR to return to completely stock rom. This tool can effect your flash counter (see below). Files for flashing in odin generally should end in .tar or .tar.md5 although sometimes they come zipped and the tar is inside the zip. Read more about Odin before using it as it can easily break your phone. !!!as a general rule make sure you never check the "partition" checkbox EVER!!!
Mobile Odin is a phone based version of Odin made by the very talented developer Chainfire. It can be installed on a rooted phone and used to flash the same .tar based files as the desktop version. Mobile odin has a few advantages. 1 you can use it from your phone. 2 it does NOT effect the flash counter on your phone, 3 it can auto root a stock rom (nice if you want to try out a brand new update that has not been rooted yet)
clockworkmod(cwm) is recovery based tool that can make backups of your entire phone, flash new roms, kernels etc.., and do many other useful tasks. Once you have this on your phone my guess is that most of your flashing will be done through this tool. The files for flashing through clockworkmod are .zip files. Clockworkmod will NOT effect your flash counter.
ADB is the android develpment bridge. It allows for command line interface with your phone through it's debugging options. ADB can do most anything as I understand it. In my several years of flashing I have only had to use it once, and i could have waited for someone to come up with another solution. In general as a noob i recommend you stay away from ADB.
open source vs Samsung based roms vs miui
Open Source Roms such as AOSP/AOKP are built using Google's open source android code as a base. The developers then add functionality specific to the device. The advantages of these builds are that they often have tons of options built in to the rom that change the behavior and look of the phone. They usually allow you to change the toggles in your notification pull down, change the battery display, make all kinds of adjustments to sounds, vibration etc... Some people also prefer the "vanilla" android look and feel. These roms often provide "bleeding edge" concepts, design, and modifications. The Disadvantages of these roms is that some of the hardware coding is done closed source by the phone manufacturers, which means that things like bluetooth, camera, video recording, and MHL video out often don't work or take much longer to get working by the developers. Basically anything that relies on the Samsung framework will not work in an open source build. This means Svoice, Snote, and the Samsung camera app will not work.
Samsung based roms are taken from the Samsung original phone software and modified by the developer. Usually, these roms are modified in order to be faster and to make changes to some of the features. Expect to see changes to the stock rom like: debloated (ATT and samsung software removed), de-odexed (explained later), enable tethering, unlimited sms recipients, added notification toggles, etc. Most of these changes are made to: make the phone faster, improve battery life, make the phone easier to theme. The advantage of these roms is that they still use the Samsung framework so all the proprietary stuff like camera, bluetooth, MHL still work, the disadvantage is that they will never be as customisable as open source roms.
MIUI is a rom that focuses on theming. Official MIUI (Chinese) gets updated weekly on Friday and then there are lots of miui developers who adapt it to other languanges and make some tweaks to it. MIUI can be built from AOSP source or Samsung source and depending will have different features. The first MIUI rom for our phone just appeared in these forums and it is based off of AOSP. MIUI has a unique look and is also highly customizable through theming. There are tons of themes available for download through the rom itself and you can mix and match any part of any theme you want. This includes icons, lockscreen style, etc.. Some people criticize while others praise MIUI for being very "iphone like". This is because the icons look more iphone like and there is no app drawer in the MIUI launcher. However, you can still use any launcher you like within MIUI.
odexed vs de-odexed
odexed is how the phone comes stock from Samsung. Odexed means that system files and apps are split into two pieces and kept in different places on the phone. This is done to speed things up a bit. However, it makes it harder to theme the phone because the apps are split up. Most custom roms choose to de-odex (basically regroup the files back into one) so that custom themers can make themes more easily for the phone.
download mode and recovery mode how to access
(Copied from mskip and his toolkit thread here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1746665)
How to get into Download Mode (For Odin)
1. Unplug the USB cable.
2. Shut down the phone.
3. Hold down the 'HOME' + 'VOLUME DOWN' buttons and press the 'POWER' button for about 2 seconds until a WARNING! Screen appears. Press the 'VOLUME UP' button to enter Download Mode.
How to get into Recovery Mode
1. Unplug the USB cable.
2. Shut down the phone.
3. Hold down the 'HOME' + 'VOLUME UP' buttons and press the 'POWER' button for about 5 seconds to enter Recovery Mode.
STEP BY STEP how to flash your phone for the first time
A. get root
first off, you need to gain access to the root of your phone. there are several ways to do this (thanks to all the talented devs).
I recommend using mrRobinson's method as it will not trip the flash counter on your phone.
1. you will need to have odin from here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1722686 remember to hit the thanks button, download and install odin.
2. Kies (on Windows, not on your phone), Samsung's sync program, can interfere with Odin. Either make sure Kies is closed and close it out of background processes using the task manager in windows...or better yet, uninstall it completely.3. make sure you have the proper samsung drivers installed. you can get the USB drivers directly from Samsung here: http://www.samsung.com/us/support/owners/product/SGH-I747MBBATT
4. you need to download the right image from mrRobinson's thread. to find out which one hit the menu key from your home screen, select system settings, select about phone at the bottom, and look for the build. it should be either UCALEM or UCALG1. Once you know, go to mrRobinson's thread here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1739426 download the matching image, and dont forget to thank him.
STEPS 5-7 COPIED FROM mrRobinson's THREAD
5. Extract the .tar file from the .7z file you just downloaded from the thread in step 46. Put your phone into download mode (see how above)
7. Start Odin, connect your phone to your PC, you should see the box under ID:COM change color to show your device is connected. click on PDA and select the .tar file you just extracted. Hit the start button and wait for the file to flash to your phone. When done your phone will reboot automatically. One word of warning about Odin: DO NOT TOUCH THE CHECKBOXES!!! WHATEVER YOU DO>>DONT TOUCH THE RE-PARTITION CHECKBOX!!!!B. installing clockworkmod
the next step is to get a working clockworkmod recovery on your phone instead of the default recovery. Again, there are many ways to do this and there are several different versions of CWM recovery available. I recommend using the one from Rom Manager as it seems to be compatible with most roms. Note that currently most versions of CWM can only see your internal SD card and not your external if you have one.
1. Go to the Google play store and download Rom Manager (https://play.google.com/store/apps/...anager&feature=nav_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDNd)2. Open Rom Manager app, flash clockworkmod recovery (first option), choose the appropriate phone..in this case galaxy s3 att, grant it superuser privileges, it should say install successful. NOTE: some users have reported not seeing the S3 ATT in the list of devices in Rom Manager...this is a bug and hopefully will be fixed. It may be that you need the purchased version instead of the free version for it to work? Not sure why this is but if it gives you trouble there are other ways to flash a recovery image. The next easiest way once rooted is to use the tool in this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1746665 from there you can flash both cwm or twrp whichever you prefer. Alternatively you could also use goo manager to flash TWRP link to goo here: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s0up.goomanager&hl=en
C. Test out your new recovery and make a backup of your phone
1. turn your phone off, then turn it back on while holding the Volume UP and home key. (more detailed instructions above) You should see Clockworkmod Recovery at the top.2. Use your volume keys to navigate to the backup option and select backup, then wait for it to complete. You now have a backup of your phone you can restore to at any time.
D. downloading and flashing a new rom
now its time to decide what rom to flash. when choosing a rom read the first post of the thread (the OP) carefully and take time to read through most if not all of the thread. At the very least go read the last 10 pages of the thread so you are familiar with any current issues people may be having. Once you have picked a rom:
1. Download the rom you want to try2. Make sure that the rom ends up on your internal SD card and that you know where it is3. Get into CWM recovery4. As a general rule it's a good idea to wipe data/ factory reset from CWM recovery (this will wipe all your data on the phone except any photos/videos you may have taken)5. It is also good practice to wipe cache from CWM recovery6. Lastly, from the advanced menu in CWM choose to wipe Dalvik cache7. now go back out to the main recovery screen and choose "install .zip from SD Card" option and navigate to your rom, select it and confirmnote that a new rom may take longer to boot the first time.
Flashing "dirty" vs flashing "clean"
Clean
Doing a clean install of a rom means erasing or formatting all the data from the previous rom before you flash the new one. This is the prefered way to flash a rom to ensure that it will run smoothly. It is necessary if you are switching from one rom type to another (CM to Samsung base). In order to do a clean flash you need to boot into recovery and select the following options: wipe user data (this wipes all apps and personal data, but not your photos/videos), wipe cache, advanced>wipe dalvik cache, storage/mounts>format system. This will ensure that no trace of the former rom is left on the phone. Beware that at this point your phone will not boot until you install a new rom. I suggest using titanium backup to backup apps and smsbackup+ for texts to make getting your new rom configured easy.
Dirty
Doing a dirty install means just flashing a new rom right over the top of the old one without wiping any data. The advantage to this is that you don't lose any apps or account info. The disadvantage is that you open up the possibility for problems. Generally you only want to flash this way if you are upgrading a rom (CM10 nightly to the next nightly, or from one samsung based rom to another). If you decide to flash over the top and have any issues, you should not report bugs, but try flashing clean first.
backing up IMEI
There have been some issues with people losing their imei number when flashing roms. *It appears to be limited to the old imei software version 2 but the evidence is not yet conclusive. *If you lose your imei, you will not be able to connect properly to the data network. *Luckily some devs have figured out how to re-inject an imei number into our phone and get it working again. *It is certainly a good idea to back up your imei info before flashing just to be on the safe side. *There seems to be two main threads dealing with backing up and restoring your imei. *you can check them out here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1801997
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1804117
huge thanks go out to these devs for figuring this out!! as always make sure you thank them.
I have yet to try either of these methods out myself so if one seems much easier or clearer please let me know.
tethering (for stock Samsung based rom)
you can use a mod to enable wifi tethering from your phone to up to ten other devices and share your data connection. If you are running a custom rom you probably already have this enabled and don't need it. It is already included in any AOSP roms also.
Make sure that you use the version of the mod that is for your software version number (UCLEM or UCLG1 see beginning of rooting guide to figure out which one you are on).
The original mod for UCLEM is here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1732262
The mod for UCLG1 is here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1768826
The Flash Counter
The flash counter is an internal counter that ticks every time you install a non-samsung firmware through Odin. This allows Samsung or AT&T to see if the phone has been flashed with custom roms. custom recoveries such as Clockworkmod and TWRP as well as the mobile version of Odin DO NOT change the counter. Only flashing non-Samsung files through the desktop version of Odin does. You can see your flash counter when you enter download mode on your phone. Luckily, Chainfire has developed an app that allows this counter to be reset, so there is really little concern anymore about having the counter trip. If you do need to send your phone in for repairs, you will want to reset the counter and then flash an unmodified stock rom through odin to get your phone back to factory state.
Link to Chainfire's app through this post here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1800878
Logcat
Logcat is a way to access the android system log for everything that is going on behind the scenes. This tool is used to help developers pinpoint problems in a rom. If you want to actually be helpful to a dev when reporting a bug, you should really learn to use this tool. I am no expert on logcat but you can find some good information in this post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1726238
APN settings
This is the apn that comes on stock at&t phone. It allows you to connect to LTE as well as hspa+
Name: ATT PTA
APN: pta
MMSC: http://mmsc.mobile.att.net
MMS Proxy: proxy.mobile.att.net
MMS port: 80
MCC: 310
MNC: 410
Auth: none
APN type: default,mms,supl,hipri
NOTES BELOW ARE COMING SECTIONS. Feel free to pm me questions you would like to see answered or suggestions for other info:
theming
unlocking sim
returning to stock
What info is stored in each area: system, data, cache etc...
Looks good.
Stuck
FNM
I now know more about Android OS! Thanks for the info.
Good thread! In your step by step guide I suggest you add installing adb and adb basics. IMO, this is essential for anyone flashing, has bailed me out of trouble on more than one occasion.
Sent from my SGH-I747M using XDA Premium HD app
MORE ! MORE ! Very nice work thanks, this is shedding some lights on the terms we see floating around
excellent information, much appreciated, so what is de-odexed and odexed? thanks again!!
I got my s3 when it first shipped, and soft bricked it a month later. Even if you do everything right, it can still mess up. So waiting for a USB jig to come in the mail since my homebrew jig didnt work or I hard bricked my phone... Be warned...
Very helpful thread, thanks a lot!
Thanks for this guide!! Very helpful. Coming from a very different phone, everything about the S3 is foreign to me! Could you maybe talk about backing up nv stuff and imei?? I know there's another thread that explains it, but, this being the noob helper, I think it'd be good for anyone new to this phone.
Thanks
Thank you for making this! I'm sure this will help a lot of people out. I've flashed quite a few times and having a guide like this is definitely helpful.
I sure hope I had this guide when I flashed for the first time a few days ago, but at the time you only had part 1 done and the guide had not been completed yet. Glad to see it finished and it'll definitely help out others.
mods
Thanks for all the invaluable info on flashing ROMs. I've been a BB user for years so Android is still new to me. I'm looking into rooting and trying out some custom roms, but I had a question. When it comes to Mods can you just add those individually?
I want to use Team Sonic's FreeGS3 Rom mainly due to it's Sony Bravia engine Mod and the Awesome Beats Mod (or at least when they get it working on apps other than Google Music). However, they don't have a fully supported Rom for AT&T just yet.
Trying to have the best of both worlds....I may just need to try out something else and wait for the full ATT version.
This is a great thread you've created OP. However, I'm a tad confused. You mention in the guide that Kies interferes with Odin and you say to close and close it out of the backround, but you also mention "better yet, uninstall it completely." One of the reasons I'm rooting my new phone is to be able to delete this bloatware. Are you implying this is possible without first rooting the phone?
Thanks a lot in advance, this is very helpful.
jroyjohnson said:
Thanks for all the invaluable info on flashing ROMs. I've been a BB user for years so Android is still new to me. I'm looking into rooting and trying out some custom roms, but I had a question. When it comes to Mods can you just add those individually?
I want to use Team Sonic's FreeGS3 Rom mainly due to it's Sony Bravia engine Mod and the Awesome Beats Mod (or at least when they get it working on apps other than Google Music). However, they don't have a fully supported Rom for AT&T just yet.
Trying to have the best of both worlds....I may just need to try out something else and wait for the full ATT version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would wait to flash any ROM that isn't specifically for your device. However you may be able to flash the mods you want like the bravia mod on top of an att ROM. You need to find the original post for the mods you want, and do some research to see what they require and if anyone has used them successfully. Be extra careful of mods written for the international version of the phone.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
omi__ said:
This is a great thread you've created OP. However, I'm a tad confused. You mention in the guide that Kies interferes with Odin and you say to close and close it out of the backround, but you also mention "better yet, uninstall it completely." One of the reasons I'm rooting my new phone is to be able to delete this bloatware. Are you implying this is possible without first rooting the phone?
Thanks a lot in advance, this is very helpful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can see why you are confused. I am referring to kies on your windows PC. (If you installed it at some point) Not the version that runs on the phone.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
OP, are you sure you can install CWM through ROM Manager after rooting? I remember trying to do this on my SGS2 last year and my phone soft bricked. Tried it twice, and still soft bricked.
Why not just use Robinson's method?
ComradeNF said:
OP, are you sure you can install CWM through ROM Manager after rooting? I remember trying to do this on my SGS2 last year and my phone soft bricked. Tried it twice, and still soft bricked.
Why not just use Robinson's method?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tested it out myself and it works fine. I figured this was the easiest way to get it done and not have to get adb up and running. Also, the official cwm is supported by all the new roms like cm10 and some other recoveries have had issues flashing those roms.
Thanks for putting this together! Very Helpful!
One question, you say flash CWM , first in list choose Galaxy S3 ATT, when i open Rom Manager and choose Flash i don't have the S3 for a choice ?I have Galaxy Note, Skyrocket and T-Mobile Galaxy S2, no S3....
Cholerabob said:
One question, you say flash CWM , first in list choose Galaxy S3 ATT, when i open Rom Manager and choose Flash i don't have the S3 for a choice ?I have Galaxy Note, Skyrocket and T-Mobile Galaxy S2, no S3....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try scrolling down the list
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
OK, so my AT&T Note 2 is almost here (FedEx tried to deliver it ye3sterday when I was at work) so I want to make sure I am ready when it gets here. So some questions:
1 I downloaded Odin and understand how to root the phone but where do I get the file to use with Odin to do the rooting?
2 After rooting, what program do I use to flash a new rom?
3 Is there a sticky thread somewhere with this information that I could read?
4 Is there a good program to import all of my contacts from my old Windows phone? I'm not sure what format they are stored in so that is why I mention that it is a Windows phone.
5 (opinion) What is the best rom for an AT&T Note 2? I plan on adding lots of applications later and I really don't like re-installing things often so I'll probably stick with whichever rom I choose for quite a while.
rogerbacon50 said:
OK, so my AT&T Note 2 is almost here (FedEx tried to deliver it ye3sterday when I was at work) so I want to make sure I am ready when it gets here. So some questions:
1 I downloaded Odin and understand how to root the phone but where do I get the file to use with Odin to do the rooting?
2 After rooting, what program do I use to flash a new rom?
3 Is there a sticky thread somewhere with this information that I could read?
4 Is there a good program to import all of my contacts from my old Windows phone? I'm not sure what format they are stored in so that is why I mention that it is a Windows phone.
5 (opinion) What is the best rom for an AT&T Note 2? I plan on adding lots of applications later and I really don't like re-installing things often so I'll probably stick with whichever rom I choose for quite a while.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2050297 - Does not require Odin to root. Just save to your phone, make sure Unknown Sources is checked in your phone's settings, run the file to install, run the app, make sure the exploit boxes underneath the "root" section are unchecked, then select root.
2: Download GooManager from the Play Store and run it. In menu, select Install OpenRecoveryScript. Follow the prompts, and it will download and install TWRP (custom recovery) for you. It will ask to reboot.
3: Simply do a search at the top of the forum.
4: Try Samsung Kies first. It should transfer all your contacts from most devices. Do this before installing a new ROM. Then make sure the contacts are saved to GMail's contacts.
5: It depends on preference. Each one have their own features and functionality, and varies on the version of Android it's using. I would research each one and see what entices you if I were you. Some ROMs may even have features of certain apps that you like built-in, enhancing the phone's performance due to the fact that it doesn't require an extra app to do what you want it to do. Most ROMs won't require you to "reinstall" things with each update of the ROM if you're just doing an update.
BlackPhantomX said:
1: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2050297 - Does not require Odin to root. Just save to your phone, make sure Unknown Sources is checked in your phone's settings, run the file to install, run the app, make sure the exploit boxes underneath the "root" section are unchecked, then select root.
2: Download GooManager from the Play Store and run it. In menu, select Install OpenRecoveryScript. Follow the prompts, and it will download and install TWRP (custom recovery) for you. It will ask to reboot.
3: Simply do a search at the top of the forum.
4: Try Samsung Kies first. It should transfer all your contacts from most devices. Do this before installing a new ROM. Then make sure the contacts are saved to GMail's contacts.
5: It depends on preference. Each one have their own features and functionality, and varies on the version of Android it's using. I would research each one and see what entices you if I were you. Some ROMs may even have features of certain apps that you like built-in, enhancing the phone's performance due to the fact that it doesn't require an extra app to do what you want it to do. Most ROMs won't require you to "reinstall" things with each update of the ROM if you're just doing an update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.
Maybe I'm making this harder than it needs to be. Looking at some of the roms I notice that some of them say "rooted". If I plan to flash a rooted rom do I have to root first? I assume no, but I thought I should ask.
But to install TWRP I think it has to be rooted and if I use TWRP to flash roms then I guess I'd have to be rooted first even if the rom being flashed is rooted. Now I've confused myself again. I really don't want to turn my $700 phone into a brick by screwing up.
rogerbacon50 said:
Thanks.
Maybe I'm making this harder than it needs to be. Looking at some of the roms I notice that some of them say "rooted". If I plan to flash a rooted rom do I have to root first? I assume no, but I thought I should ask.
But to install TWRP I think it has to be rooted and if I use TWRP to flash roms then I guess I'd have to be rooted first even if the rom being flashed is rooted. Now I've confused myself again. I really don't want to turn my $700 phone into a brick by screwing up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Custom ROMs always require root because it relies on a custom recovery such as TWRP and CWM. So, in short, unless you want to stay stock, you need to root.
This post should help to greatly simplify things for you. (4th post in the thread) Instructions are referring to the jedi rom but they will work for almost any other rom. I am on clean rom and have tried several others. Everything works great on clean rom. My advice would be to download all the ones you want to try, flash them and try each one for a day or two until you figure out which you like the best, then get your phone set up how you want on that rom. Once you get the one you like perfect, make a nandroid backup and then you can always flash any new roms you want to try and if they don't work for you, you can flash your backup and not have to worry about setting everything up on your phone all over again.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=35726061
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app
Trust me, the phone is absolutely worth the wait and the money! Also like he said earlier, every ROM is different and my favorite won't necessarily be your favorite, but if you like the look of Stock, I use Jedix8 which has great battery life and performance and some cool extra features. CleanRom also has a great reputation and I'll probably give it a go soon just to see what it's like. PM me if you have other questions or anything at all
BlackPhantomX said:
Custom ROMs always require root because it relies on a custom recovery such as TWRP and CWM. So, in short, unless you want to stay stock, you need to root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
topshelf95 said:
This post should help to greatly simplify things for you. (4th post in the thread) Instructions are referring to the jedi rom but they will work for almost any other rom. I am on clean rom and have tried several others.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
badler6545 said:
I use Jedix8 which has great battery life and performance and some cool extra features. CleanRom also has a great reputation and I'll probably give it a go soon just to see what it's like. PM me if you have other questions or anything at all
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks all. I think I have it all figured out (and thanks to FedEx's stupid delivery policies I've had 3 extra days to think about it).
I have downloaded Odin and a rooted img file from http://galaxynote2root.com/galaxy-note-2-root/how-to-root-galaxy-note-2-easiest-method
It will root and install CWM (although I think I would prefer TWRP from what I've rad.
I've doanloaded both the CleanRom for AT&T and the Jedi roms and will try those out. I think once I get the phone rooted and with hte custom recovery on it the actual flashing of new roms will be comparatively easy.
Well, I got my phone last night and charged it. Today I was able to root it, install TWRP, and flass CleanRom all in under an hour. Thanks to all those who offered help. The only issue I had/have is a lack of internet wit hdefault WAP settings: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=37478407
I've gotten around it using the Cingular settings but download speed is only 1.9MB. That's OK for now as I consider my options: live with it or talk to AT&T and see is something can be done without losing my unlimited plan.
Overall , this was an easy process thanks to the large databse of information here and friendly helpful people. I would encourage anyone who is thinking of doing this to proceed. It is easy once you start.
Hello All,
aXcelio here…..
I'm new to the world of Android switched from the iPhone….(was and still am a loyal user of IOS devices for the better part of 5 years)…..but out of shear boredom, I made the decision to decided to make the switch and I for the most part could not be happier. In doing so I picked up a Galaxy Note II SGH-1317 (AT&T), I've updated the stock rom (I think that's what its called) to JellyBean 4.2.1……now I'm in a place where I want take advantage of some of the feature embedded in CM (it looks really cool)……
So a buddy of mine, who's been running with droid's for as long as I've been running IOS decided to give me a hand in getting my device rooted……we used an exploit called EXYNOS, and installed TWRP (again forgive me ignorance if I'm speaking out of term…I'm learning, or trying too), everything appears to be running without incident, (with the exception of my not being able to create any backup…as the system tells me that I don't have any free space)….get back to that in a lil bit.
Now….I scored the CM site as well as XDA, but haven't really been able to find what I'm looking for (some of which could be out of fear of destroying my device, and some of which is based on a lack of understanding….more I think though of destroying my device……..I should note that I completely understand that any of that any info I get here or there…..is as is, and without any guarantee.) So here I am reaching out to you folks for some guidance……..with that allow me to ask a couple of questions…..
In an effort to get a better understanding of what my buddy did…..I would like to go through the process of setting my device back to defaults (as if I just brought it home from the store) no root, no play apps that I've installed….(I can do that later, and I'm not overly concerned about losing anything) and re-root the device…..that being said, is there a way to that (set the device back to defaults)….I've seen one article using the stock firmware, (which I've downloaded) and another which states that I can do a factory reset which will unroot the device…(but not sure what approach to take or for that matter I should even worry about that)
The second thing I'm wondering about is this……most of what I've read regarding the install of CM is that I need clockwork recovery (or something along those lines) but I have TWRP…..if I opt to not reset the phone back to factory default and unroot (or find that I really don't need to move in that direction) can I install CM using TWRP?…..if I need clockwork, can I instal this over TWRP……or do I need to do something different?
a
The last thing I have (at least for right now) is this….assuming I can move forward with the install and configuration of CM, I wonder if any of you can provide a step by step guide on how I go about this on my particular device……I've seen this article well as this ones these however appear to be for version 10, of CM…but I see there is a 10.1……I read another article (but can't seem to find it now…which stated that it worked with my device and 10.1, with a link but all of the nighties….seemed to be specific to the Galaxy Note…..not the Note II…..and again I would much rather reach out to you guys for guidance prior to doing anything…..The last question I have is I see there is a version 7100 of my phone and then one that says something about LTE (but not specific version……) is the SGH-1317 an LTE device that is version agnostic (if you will)….in other words if I see a post for an LTE GNII is that speaking to my device or something else……
Thanks a lot……
aXcelio
If your all ready rooted why go back to stock?
You don't have to install CWM TWRP is fine as your main recovery.
don't install any ROM for the N7100, that is the non LTE version of the Note 2, it will brick your phone.
CM10 is Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean. CM10.1 is 4.2 Jelly Bean.
Read the forums for the specific ROM it will give instructions on installing the ROM even if it mentions to use CWM, installing with TWRP is fine.
READ READ READ and have fun
I think i understand, you want to reset and do all this stuff on your phone yourself.
? You would would have to Odin your phone back. Either mobile Odin or one for pc. Pretty simple task once you get the files you need. Think that's right..
Edit: as the guy above me said either is fine. Just preference in what recovery to use. I would suggest to only use cmr based recovery as those seem to be more friendly with development programs and roms than the official by koush that you see in play store. I wouldn't even downloaded it.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using xda premium
nidnarb said:
I think i understand, you want to reset and do all this stuff on your phone yourself.
? You would would have to Odin your phone back. Either mobile Odin or one for pc. Pretty simple task once you get the files you need. Think that's right..
Edit: as the guy above me said either is fine. Just preference in what recovery to use. I would suggest to only use cmr based recovery as those seem to be more friendly with development programs and roms than the official by koush that you see in play store. I wouldn't even downloaded it.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
PC Odin is more safe for the record
Here is a link to a post that breaks down the basics of starting from scratch, rooting and installing clockworkmod and then flashing a ROM. The instructions are in reply to a gentleman inquiring about the Jedi ROM but the instructions will be good for most other ROMs out there. Just check the installation instructions in the op of any rom to make sure there is not something else required for install.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=35726061
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda app-developers app
I have myself a Rogers based S3, that has the stock Jelly Bean OS on it.
Its bogged down, I don't like it anymore.
I have seen the OS on the Nexus unit's and find it to be WAY better (more fluid, more options and much better UI for texting)
Now for the explanation of this thread....
I have NO idea what I'm doing anymore when it comes to this phone. It's not rooted, NO CWM installed.. And i fear i may brick it if i don't know exactly what i'm doing.
That being said, i would like to go to a stock Google OS, or something very close to it.
What are my options? I would like to try and make this as pain free as possible. As far as i can recall, rooting//cwm and Os load on my captivate was really easy... This time around, i am finding way too many "possible" ways of doing everything. I think more or less, i need to be pointed to the right way so i don't get confused.
Anyone willing to toss me a hand on this one :fingers-crossed:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2343223
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 4
Please read forum rules before posting
Questions and Help issues go in Q&A and Help section
Thread moved
Thank you for your cooperation
Friendly Neighborhood Moderator
saj222 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2343223
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Instead of linking me to something I've already read, how about actually saying something.
I'm finding too many "this might work for rogers, this might not"
Last time i followed a tutorial meant for an AT&T unit, I hard bricked the phone, and ended up tossing it
Sorry if it was in the wrong section before Kenny.
How about me not responding at all next time? I know no one is forcing me but its simple enough to find this info by searching. I understand your hesitance... No one wants an expensive brick.
I'll put something together for you later today unless someone else beats me to it. Deal?
js593 said:
What are my options? I would like to try and make this as pain free as possible. As far as i can recall, rooting//cwm and Os load on my captivate was really easy... This time around, i am finding way too many "possible" ways of doing everything. I think more or less, i need to be pointed to the right way so i don't get confused.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good thread to read: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1725839
First you need to get root. 2 easy ways here. First one is install a stock rooted ROM with Odin. Look for the Rogers image here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1739426 Second one is to install CF-Root with Odin, here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1963790 Make sure to get the one for I747M. Second option is faster b/c the zip is way smaller. Now you have stock root.
Next get GooManager https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s0up.goomanager&hl=en. Run it, press menu and then install open recovery script or something like that. It will install TWRP custom recovery. Now you can flash ROMs. Perform Nandroid backup before commencing flashing.
For a pure Google like experience, give Slimrom or AOKP (Task650) a try. Very stable.
Slim - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2085739
AOKP - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1766684
Dandroid is the latest stock themed to the hilt like Cyanogenmod. Very stable.
Dandroid - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2121506
saj222 said:
Good thread to read: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1725839
First you need to get root. 2 easy ways here. First one is install a stock rooted ROM with Odin. Look for the Rogers image here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1739426 Second one is to install CF-Root with Odin, here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1963790 Make sure to get the one for I747M. Second option is faster b/c the zip is way smaller. Now you have stock root.
Next get GooManager https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s0up.goomanager&hl=en. Run it, press menu and then install open recovery script or something like that. It will install TWRP custom recovery. Now you can flash ROMs. Perform Nandroid backup before commencing flashing.
For a pure Google like experience, give Slimrom or AOKP (Task650) a try. Very stable.
Slim - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2085739
AOKP - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1766684
Dandroid is the latest stock themed to the hilt like Cyanogenmod. Very stable.
Dandroid - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2121506
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much. I';ll be looking this over and attempting this tonight.
js593 said:
I have myself a Rogers based S3, that has the stock Jelly Bean OS on it.
Its bogged down, I don't like it anymore.
I have seen the OS on the Nexus unit's and find it to be WAY better (more fluid, more options and much better UI for texting)
Now for the explanation of this thread....
I have NO idea what I'm doing anymore when it comes to this phone. It's not rooted, NO CWM installed.. And i fear i may brick it if i don't know exactly what i'm doing.
That being said, i would like to go to a stock Google OS, or something very close to it.
What are my options? I would like to try and make this as pain free as possible. As far as i can recall, rooting//cwm and Os load on my captivate was really easy... This time around, i am finding way too many "possible" ways of doing everything. I think more or less, i need to be pointed to the right way so i don't get confused.
Anyone willing to toss me a hand on this one :fingers-crossed:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm using Task650 4.2.2. on my Rogers device and IMO it's the best out there. Never bricked my phone and smooth as butter.
thecoach1999 said:
I'm using Task650 4.2.2. on my Rogers device and IMO it's the best out there. Never bricked my phone and smooth as butter.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey guys.
So i got the phone rooted, and TWRP is installed. I have a NANDROID backup already done, but i'm a little confused on the roms. Could someone help me with this?
Last i recall, the roms were a single file, Ive downloaded the AOKP JB in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1766684 but i'm confused on how to install the rom (as its a .zip file, there's multiple files in the folder....)
Thank in advance!
Edit - I tried to flash the rom anyways, and AOKP one Failed and turned up with an error. It comes up saying "Error executing updater binary in zip "
Edit2 - I just managed to flash Dandroid to the S3, but apps are failing to load everywhere. Unsure if this is something to do with the network or anything, but im also not getting LTE with Rogers.... Play store wont connect either (and i did to the Gapps update...?)
js593 said:
Hey guys.
So i got the phone rooted, and TWRP is installed. I have a NANDROID backup already done, but i'm a little confused on the roms. Could someone help me with this?
Last i recall, the roms were a single file, Ive downloaded the AOKP JB in this thread http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1766684 but i'm confused on how to install the rom (as its a .zip file, there's multiple files in the folder....)
Thank in advance!
Edit - I tried to flash the rom anyways, and AOKP one Failed and turned up with an error. It comes up saying "Error executing updater binary in zip "
Edit2 - I just managed to flash Dandroid to the S3, but apps are failing to load everywhere. Unsure if this is something to do with the network or anything, but im also not getting LTE with Rogers.... Play store wont connect either (and i did to the Gapps update...?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before flashing you need to wipe. Data, system, dalvik and cache. Oh and before this put the new ROM files and anything you want to keep like pics on the external sdcard.
Do you have an updated bootloader? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2321310
Try re downloading the AOKP ROM and flash the while thing (the .zip). Then flash the gapps. You may have a bad download the first time.
With non-touchwiz ROMs you need to install the ROM and gapps. Do not install any gapps with dandroid.
saj222 said:
Before flashing you need to wipe. Data, system, dalvik and cache. Oh and before this put the new ROM files and anything you want to keep like pics on the external sdcard.
Do you have an updated bootloader? http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2321310
Try re downloading the AOKP ROM and flash the while thing (the .zip). Then flash the gapps. You may have a bad download the first time.
With non-touchwiz ROMs you need to install the ROM and gapps. Do not install any gapps with dandroid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe i ran into the issue blindly.
I forgot to update the bootloader before flashing it. Will try again when i get home and report back with anything.
..
fffft said:
If that sorts your issues, then call it done and thank the people that helped you.
The earlier suggestions were good and not to be faulted. However there is more than one way to do most things. So if you are not happy for whatever reason here is a slightly different approach. There are some very stable custom ROMs that are very snappy and have a similar no lag, fluid feel (Google calls this "butter") to them vis a vis the Nexus. So a simple approach to that result would be:
1. Download and install the Samsung S3 V7.0 toolkit (program)
2. Start the toolkit program
Choose "n" when asked if you want to update the program
Choose your phone version. This is probably "53" for you
Choose option #1 from the main menu to install the necessary USB driver to your PC
After the driver is installed, connect your phone to your PC with the Samsung USB cable.
If your phone is currently stable, you can skip steps #3 + 4.
If you are uncertain, then steps #3 + 4 will restore a stock Rogers firmware as a starting point:
3. Go to Samsung updates and download a stock Rogers firmware
4. Install the stock firmware. This is toolkit menu option #8, 4, 2
5. Download the custom Wicked Aroma ROM v10 (main thread here)
6. Copy the Wicked Aroma ROM to your phone. You can do this in windows by going to file manager and drag and drop the Wicked file (leave it zipped) on the "Samsung Mobile MTP Device - Phone/Data" folder icon.
7. Flash the Wicked ROM from "recovery mode"
Ensure that your battery is at least 80% charged. Then turn your phone off and disconnect the USB cable
Push and hold the home button, volume up and power button at the same time until you feel the phone vibrate and see blue text on screen in the upper left hand corner. Then release the buttons.
On the onscreen phone menu, choose wipe (factory reset)
Then choose install and select the Wicked_v10. zip file
The rest of the install will be automated on your phone screen. It will ask you to select a number of options. If you are uncertain, then just leave them at the default settings. Ensure that you leave the wipe cache setting as is when asked. And I'd recommend the stock theme and stock kernel to start. The rest you can leave as is or change to what sounds attractive to you.
Note that the wicked ROM will change your boot splash screen. Most people won't care and it's not that hard to revert if you don't like the logo for some reason. This is the logo that appears for a few seconds when you first power up a phone.
This is a very snappy, pretty much zero lag and stable ROM. I think that you'd like it.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the lengthy reply.
I tried putting the new bootloader on there, and tried re-flashing, but it did the same thing. So, in the mean time i'm going to use the Dandroid rom (didn't install the Gapps) and it seems to be working okay. I just fear a bit as the phone seems to be running much warmer then it usually does....
In the mean time, ill use this one, and see if it makes a difference (it could still be loading all my settings and whatnot, so we'll see what happens. I love the look of this rom though. Very simple, very clean. Exactly what i was looking for. Those samsung stock themes are terrible.... Thanks a bunch for the help people. Greatly appreciate it!
Personal taste varies a lot and there are a lot of themed ROMs on this site. So you should be able to find something that you like. It sounds like you want something snappy and Spartan looking. If you like your results so far, then no need to go any further.
If you end up trying the Wicked ROM, perhaps choose the Miui or Holo launcher and ASOP lock screen options.
There are an endless variety of home screen themes to be discovered. And no way to know what you might like. A few random screen shots:
http://media02.hongkiat.com/cool-android-homescreens/Clood.jpg
http://media02.hongkiat.com/cool-android-homescreens/evening.jpg
http://main.makeuseoflimited.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/jb_holo_launcher.jpg
http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo248/jb-dan/DroidInc/d4281332.jpg
http://mycolorscreen.com/wp-content/uploads/homescreens_2012/270592/KLPOS7.png
http://desktopspotting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Minimal-Android-Home-screen.png
.
Just installed the Wicked rom on my S3. NICE! Need to play with the settings a bit to get it configured the way I like, but a definite keeper.
Very nice job.....Kudos!
Three times now I have bricked my Samsung S3 (SGH-T999) by flashing a new Rom that should work ok. I flashed my recovery with Multiboot v2.11 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2684052). Booted into Recovery, created the new Rom, selected the new Rom, installed the new Rom and attempted to boot into th new Rom. at that poin t my phone went dark, it would not power up no matter what I did. Plugged in I would see the object "qhsusb_dload" in the Device Manager (Windows 7). From there I learned it was bricked. I have been able to recover in all instances
Can anyone possibly shed some light on what might be going on??
Thanks,
Robert
First thing I'm noticing is you are using multi boot for the I747. Probably doesn't matter much but you really can't know for sure. We gave our own multi boot thread btw.
The only other thing is the roms. You need to tell us exactly what you flashed, how you flashed and what recovery you used. (Links can be a big help so we don't have to spend extra time verifying that we understand correctly which ones you are referring to.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
DocHoliday77 said:
First thing I'm noticing is you are using multi boot for the I747. Probably doesn't matter much but you really can't know for sure. We gave our own multi boot thread btw.
The only other thing is the roms. You need to tell us exactly what you flashed, how you flashed and what recovery you used. (Links can be a big help so we don't have to spend extra time verifying that we understand correctly which ones you are referring to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doc,
Thanks for your reply. My phone is a Samsung S3 (SGH-T999 T-Mobile). To start with, I already had TWRP 2.8 installed.
I followed this link for a starting point: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2646528
Recovery File: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?w=files&flid=12831 (d2tmo-twrp2.7-mb-v2.11.zip)
Flashed the new Recovery from the old recovery. No problems installing or using the new recovery.
I had tried Android Revolution HD from (http://joyofandroid.com/10-best-custom-roms-samsung-galaxy-s3/) and soon realized that was for the i9300. Needless to say that bricked my phone the first time. Flashed everything back to stock.
Next I tried FlashingDroid from the same link as above with the same results.
In the Multiboot TWRP 2.7 I would simply do the following:
- Create the Rom Space using the img option
- Set the Rom to the newly created space.
- Flash the new Rom.
- Set Boot to new Rom.
All seemed to go ok, but when it rebooted it was bricked. My phone would not power on either on battery or plugged in. When plugged in I would see an unloaded device named "qhsusb_dload". From what I briefly read on that, it is a very distinct indication that your phone is bricked.
From that point I would image my sd card with a debrick image, reboot into download mode and reflash back to stock...
If there is a better way, please direct me to the correct docs.
Thanks,
Robert
I tried yet again from a fresh flash with the same results. Somethings not right can anyone shed some light on what I might do to be able to use this Multiboot option?
Robert
Never heard of "FlashingDroid" but it is also an i9300 rom. The ONLY roms you should be using are ones in our Development and Original Development sections. Everything in our forums here is as safe as your going to get. (There's always some risk when flashing). I highly recommend Against flashing anything from any other site or Google search.
I didn't look to verify, but I'm betting every rom on that page you linked is for the i9300. Pretty much every time you see something about the S3 online, they are talking about the i9300. They will specifically refer to the model number and/or carrier otherwise.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
Doc,
What I really do not understand is how this is bricking my phone. One would think if I reset the Multiboot options back to Internal away from the new Rom I created that it would still be able to boot my original Rom? Isn't that one of the reasons to have a Multiboot feature?
Robert
I'm not completely sure on that one tbh. I do know that just because it's not internal and it's on your SD card, those i9300 roms are not going to work. (I don't use multi boot so I'm not really well versed on how it all works, but if it has to symlink partitions for example, when you try to reboot to the internal rom it would need to reset those links, but if they are linked to the wrong partitions, it probably wouldn't boot at all. Keep in mind that is more a guess, but the logic seems right to me.
Bricks occur because when flashing an i9300 rom, it flashes the kernel to the wrong partition. (One of the bootloaders if I remember right). So if it does operate using symlinks, it'll try to access the bootloader and will get redirected to the i9300 kernel resulting in the inability to boot.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk
I never heard of multiboot what is it? Is it like a custom recovery. By the way I heard the best custom recovery that is really safe is ClockworkMod you can even flash it as a zip so that it isn't permanent. Bit I'm using it and I haven't found anything wrong with it so far. It even tells you when the ROM isn't the right one for your phone. (Status 7) so that you don't brick your phone.
Just wanted to give you a heads up.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
I highly suggest reading all the stickied threads for starters. Multi boot has its own thread in development. Cwm is not the only recovery, none are permanent (in the way I'm guessing you referred to it) and all will throw status errors when necessary. All the recoveries are good. Just comes down to personal preference.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk