Unlock bootloader, does it worth ? - Xperia Arc Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi,
I have Arc S , Locked BL, still under warranty.
I have tried multiple ICS Roms, but all are very laggy,
I'm now on Stock GB and it's really smooth, but it's from 2011, and we are in 2013 !!!
I wanted to unlock BL, and install a custom kernel and rom (ICS , Jelly bean, ... ) . will these improve performance ? or should i stay on GB?
And I will use testpoint method in order to relock it back completely if i need warranty later on. is that right ?
Thanks guy

Yes certainly .
Not that I know of.
Use this; http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1134335 (only for official method)
Sent from my X10i using xda premium

Ok thanks man ,
I will proceed with official one
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

I Believe if you are advance it doesn's worth an no problem

it's awesome if you like to test ROMs... makes the process way faster as you don't have to go to flashmode first and flash stock rom and then root it and then install xparts etc etc etc...
with unlocked boot you just install kernel (), wipe stuff in CWM and install ROM and that's it.
Gives you access to try out kernels which some are better than others but all of them are better than stock...
and gives you access to try out JB roms and kernels... although for this keep in mind that HDMI does not work on JB roms because developers need Sony to release proper jb drivers.
Good luck!

one more good thing is that you can overclock (Done at your own risk), I bought a new phone and unlocked BL within hours of having it
Just remember that warranty/dmr and bravia is lost

Totally worth it man. You can adapt your phone to the kind of person you are, the kind of user you are, by customizing it 100%. And you don't loose anything though, if you want your HDMI and 720p @ 30fps and bravia, etc, back again, just flash any ICS rom or GB based, and voilà! Unlock your bootloader, Unleash your phone.

Yes it is worth it.
You may get a much better experience than you are currently getting.
Allows almost full customization the way you want it.
If not it is very easy to go back to stock.
Flashing re-flashing ROMs may look difficult at first glance, but once you do it by following guides it is very easy and so addicting that you may end up flashing something new everyday !

Thank you all for you encouragement,
I unlocked it since thursday, and I am enjoying full stuff of my phone,
I have been trying roms on locked BL since january, but all are slow.
Now with custom kernels, the same roms run much faster and smoother, and battery is longer .
Thank you guys for help
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

Related

[Q] Easiest way to root a unlocked bootloader Arc running on 2.3.3 ?

If you have an Xperia Arc version 2.3.3 unlocked bootloader, you can't root using Gingerbreak or Super1click as the update, unwillingly, made sure that stuff doesn't work anymore.
The only way to root, as far as I know, is flashing -> getting 2.3.2 ROM -> root from their -> update.
I can not use that way as everytime I try to update in the last step it wont turn on again after reboot (so I have to flash using http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126358, though i'm sure it'll work for most of you.
Question being: Is there atm really no alternative to root for me then? I'm kinda desperate, i've been looking on XDA a lot of hours and this is rly my last hope to get this over with..
thx in advance!
As you said yourself.. You have an unlocked bootloader.. so you don't have to more like you cannot use the FOTA technique cos OTA update bricks the phone..
Simply flash one of the prerooted kernel like DoomLord Kernel.. Should do it .. Or if you want the stock kernel then Serach the forums for something like "Root 4.0.A.2.368" They will usually specifically say that you need unlocked bootloader..
[Guide] All in one 'Namaste guide' to Bootloader unlocking, Rooting, Flashing & more
thx for the replies.
though, I've read that whole guide before, problem is:
"Ques – Ok. So quickly tell me how to unlock my Xperia Arc’s bootloader and install a beautiful Custom ROM.
Not so fast dear. I described a deal about bootloader and benefits of its unlocking but let’s get practical. There are two disadvantages of unlocking the Xperia Arc’s bootloader.
As per my knowledge, till date, there is no Custom ROM designed for your Xperia Arc. So, it’s useless to unlock your bootloader. "
So, if a "non stock kernel" means the same as a "custom ROM", where do I find it? i dont want the original one as that1 is outdated. I know how to flash my phone, but only with delivered folders (which are always X10)
with kind regards,
Tom
Emissia said:
If you have an Xperia Arc version 2.3.3 unlocked bootloader, you can't root using Gingerbreak or Super1click as the update, unwillingly, made sure that stuff doesn't work anymore.
The only way to root, as far as I know, is flashing -> getting 2.3.2 ROM -> root from their -> update.
I can not use that way as everytime I try to update in the last step it wont turn on again after reboot (so I have to flash using http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126358, though i'm sure it'll work for most of you.
Question being: Is there atm really no alternative to root for me then? I'm kinda desperate, i've been looking on XDA a lot of hours and this is rly my last hope to get this over with..
thx in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same problem with my Neo. I've tried flashing 2.2.2, then rooting with Flashtool (just click Xperia X10), but this doesn't work, and after relocking the bootloader and updating, the phone is bricked as well. Tried this like 5 times.
I think I'll just wait for 2.3.4 as my main reasons to root are making screenshots and removing bloatware. 2.3.4 adds screenshots, and currently, my ROM is not totally full.
Same here, just wanna get that bloatware off, starting to look like i'm gonna wait as well... this has already taken enough hours away from me
Emissia said:
Same here, just wanna get that bloatware off, starting to look like i'm gonna wait as well... this has already taken enough hours away from me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flash a prerooted image or relock the bootloader and use the more lengthy method.
Emissia said:
thx for the replies.
though, I've read that whole guide before, problem is:
"Ques – Ok. So quickly tell me how to unlock my Xperia Arc’s bootloader and install a beautiful Custom ROM.
Not so fast dear. I described a deal about bootloader and benefits of its unlocking but let’s get practical. There are two disadvantages of unlocking the Xperia Arc’s bootloader.
As per my knowledge, till date, there is no Custom ROM designed for your Xperia Arc. So, it’s useless to unlock your bootloader. "
So, if a "non stock kernel" means the same as a "custom ROM", where do I find it? i dont want the original one as that1 is outdated. I know how to flash my phone, but only with delivered folders (which are always X10)
with kind regards,
Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm.. Only non stock kernels yet around are the DoomLord and CM (FreeXperia) kerenls.. Check the development forums for them..
The Stock aren't really "outdated".. These custom kerenels are based on the original stock code with a few features enabled.. So don't expect android 2.3.4 from them or anything..
As for rooting issues.. Follow the Namaste guide and a few posts in the development forum bout rooting arc properly and carefully.. Noting what is Locked and Unlocked and which method works where.. And it won't take more than 15 minutes to setup everything..

worth unlocking bootloader? Any good ROMs?

Is it worth getting the bootloader unlocked? (at the moment it is a pay-only option).
If I flash something like CM7 does the phone perform just as good as stock, in terms of hardware acceleration for games etc?
Thanks
I'd say so. depends on what you want to do with it.
CM7 is looking promising, should they fix the bugs introduced in the recent versions..., 028a is my daily driver on my 800i.
miui sounds good too.
gneville said:
Is it worth getting the bootloader unlocked? (at the moment it is a pay-only option).
If I flash something like CM7 does the phone perform just as good as stock, in terms of hardware acceleration for games etc?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this moment in time I would advice you to stick to stock rom, the only good thing at this moment in time in my own opinion is the overclocking module which is built into custom kernels.
Until there is a fully stable CM7, MIUI or custom stock ROM with good benefits I would advice you to not unlock the bootloader
im stock 2.3.4 with a Samsung theme.Its great.
Not much ROMS Atm ... but bootloader unlocking ,rooting and DooMNkernel for 2.3.3 will make ur phone crazy ass fast.
gneville said:
Is it worth getting the bootloader unlocked? (at the moment it is a pay-only option).
If I flash something like CM7 does the phone perform just as good as stock, in terms of hardware acceleration for games etc?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It depends. Which model do you have? If its the Verizon model then hell yes, unlock the bootloader and load the UK firmware. The Verizon branded firmware takes this awesome phone with awesome features and makes it just another Verizon phone. The UK firmware is faster, better battery life, etc. there is a learning curve when it comes to flashing these phones compared to other Android phones though so research it first.
Edit: I would not recommend CM7 atm. Too buggy and laggy.
Sent from my R800x using XDA App
Unlock only to change carrier or r800x model. But definitely root the play.
Sent from my rooted R800a 2.3.3 BL locked

[PRO] Flash Custom Kernel + ROM and O/C

Hi all, im a newbie here, i bought my Xperia PRO a month ago, and rooted it on Android 4, using a great tutorial in this forum and thanks to other members i got it right and rooted it in my 4 first days of use. But, i now want to upgrade to a Custom ROM and use a custom kernel , to get my phone to a new generation.
And my question now is, how can i flash a Custom ROM (i was thinking of CM9 stable when it comes out), and flash a custom Kernel with it (i was thinking of Ultima V1.4) and then keep my old applications, or most of them.
I have CWM Recovery 5.5.0.4 installed using X-Parts , and also Titanium Backup Pro . My Bootloader is still locked and i have flashtool and all drivers for my phone installed on my PC.
I would be very thankful to anyone that is able to help me do all these, or if needed, recommend me a better Custom ROM and Kernel, and then explain how i can O/C my phone too, and keep if possible most of my apps.
Also, please tell me if i have to install anything else, or if im missing anything.
Thanks in advance.
Hi mate,
First of all, I take it that you know that you have to unlock your boot loader to install custom kernels and some custom rom's. Like CM9 and 10.
ROM Install Instructions
There are normally instructions that are in the first or second post that explain how to install. If there aren't any, I've copied the instructions from maxio1998, so all credits go to him:
1. Download .zip file and place it on SD card
2. Download and flash kernel you like (or not, if you have locked bootloader)
3. Download WiFi Modules of chosen kernel and place them on sdcard
4. Go to CWM Recovery.
5. Wipe everything! (This means everything but the SD card, or you'll use all you files)
6. Flash zip with ROM
7. Flash zip with WiFi modules
8. In CWM go to "Advance" and fix permissions.
9. Reboot and enjoy [~xDevilCharged~] and PentaPowerful~ Jelly Sandwich!
Link to original post: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1836993
Kernel Install instructions
To keep it simple, heres a program that doomed151 made. It flashes the .img without having to use command prompt: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1551073
Right, onto keeping your apps. As you need to wipe everything to install a new ROM, you can't keep your apps without backing them up. Titanium backup is the best option, and you've bought it, even better :victory: The wipe will not delete the backups from the SD Card so just place them somewhere on there.
You can use any overclocking app from the market as long as you let it use superuser or supersu. Don't recommend passing 1.3, it gets very hot and the cpu will burn out quicker. (Yeah, I know i've overclocked mine to 1.5, but it gets very hot and runs out of battery quickly)
As you've already got CWM installed, you'd be better doing a full nandroid backup, just in case you decide to revert back to stock, you have all your apps installed
Unfortunately, I'm using the arc, so I can't recommend any kernels or ROM's to you. Sorry.
If I've missed anything you need to know, just let me know. I'll try to help
Awesome! Thank you very much my friend, very detailed and nice guide. I'll wait for CM9 stable to be released for my phone an then ill try it out.
Thanks again.
Also, I've searched enough, to believe that cyanogen mods, are the best and most recommended custom ROMs, about the kernel, I aint so sure but ill see what other user's might say.
Sent from my MK16i using xda premium
we got nothing recommended custom kernel for xperia pro cyanogen rom as custom kernel for cyanogen made by FXP already stable.
recommended custom kernel for GB and ICS stock or stock based rom > http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=24867340#post24867340
If i remember right, CM9.1 (stable) has not yet been released for iyokan (MK16i). So that means i have to wait. Also, i can flash a ROM and use a kernel other than the ROM's default one, right? (i want CM9.1 with Ultima V1.4 Kernel)
And one more thing, i have moved all apps to the SD, what will happen to the files there? Will they remain?
DeejayTelis said:
If i remember right, CM9.1 (stable) has not yet been released for iyokan (MK16i). So that means i have to wait. Also, i can flash a ROM and use a kernel other than the ROM's default one, right? (i want CM9.1 with Ultima V1.4 Kernel)
And one more thing, i have moved all apps to the SD, what will happen to the files there? Will they remain?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think that you have to use the cm kernel (fxp kernel). Could be wrong though, not really looked into it.
Any apps that you have installed on your phone will be deleted. You have to back them up and then restore them. It doesn't matter where they are installed
Sent from my Xperia Arc
so, how can i be sure if it is possible to flash CM9 with Ultima Kernel?
Also, do i have to do anything with google apps? And flash another baseband or something like it?
And last but not least, i have installed CWM using X-Parts, will this affect anything?
DeejayTelis said:
so, how can i be sure if it is possible to flash CM9 with Ultima Kernel?
Also, do i have to do anything with google apps? And flash another baseband or something like it?
And last but not least, i have installed CWM using X-Parts, will this affect anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for late reply, just look up the thread again.
Best thing you could do is ask a question the Ultima Kernel thread and hope you get a response. But I think that it will be for stock only, (I think they need different things in them....) but im not a dev, I don't have the patience..... :laugh:
You might have to flash google apps. Just use CWM in the custom kernel you choose. They will be a link in the bottom of the first post to the google apps download.
No need to flash another baseband or owt like that. When you flash the full zip of CM9 in CWM it will add and edit everything you need.
CWM from X-Parts will not have any effect on anything after you flash a different kernel. It will disappear like it was never there.
Hope I'm able to help again Need anything else, just post again, I will pick it up
Good work Jon565G
Not just good, excellent work!
I did it, and flahsed the kernel and all that stuff, now i reinstalled all my apps , and O/Ced at 1.2Ghz , and everything is nice.
But, working on android stuff, makes you want more and more, and as you learn better, that makes you want even more, and now i want to mod another phone.!
I've learned a lot from your help and the help of other members of this forum, and i think i am now ready to "mod" more phone, just for fun.
I already managed to flash an x10 mini with miniCM7 and flash a nAa Kernel, and also flash another x10 mini pro with miniCM7, and probably today ill mod another friend's x10 mini. And later two x8.
Learning, is great, thank you all.
EDIT: I also found out that everything you need is Flashtool, its the best tool out there, it flashes, it installs Busybox, recoveries, it unlocks bootloaders, it roots, it flashes kernels, everything. .Ok you might also need s1tool to check about the semc lock and if you unlocked the bootloader.
ashikonxda said:
Good work Jon565G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank You. I do try to help when I can
DeejayTelis said:
Not just good, excellent work!
I did it, and flahsed the kernel and all that stuff, now i reinstalled all my apps , and O/Ced at 1.2Ghz , and everything is nice.
But, working on android stuff, makes you want more and more, and as you learn better, that makes you want even more, and now i want to mod another phone.!
I've learned a lot from your help and the help of other members of this forum, and i think i am now ready to "mod" more phone, just for fun.
I already managed to flash an x10 mini with miniCM7 and flash a nAa Kernel, and also flash another x10 mini pro with miniCM7, and probably today ill mod another friend's x10 mini. And later two x8.
Learning, is great, thank you all.
EDIT: I also found out that everything you need is Flashtool, its the best tool out there, it flashes, it installs Busybox, recoveries, it unlocks bootloaders, it roots, it flashes kernels, everything. .Ok you might also need s1tool to check about the semc lock and if you unlocked the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cheers
I know, I'm the same. I'll want to go and buy about 10 different android devices just to have a play around and mod them. It's always nice to play around with 2 android devices (Please come back in stock Nexus 7 )
Anyway... I'm just glad that I was able to help to introduce you to the world of android modding.
Have fun, that's what it's all about :victory:
(I had to use multiple programs, my bootloader could only be unlocked my test point. Was locked to T-Mobile. Best use of flashtool is when you've bricked it and need to get it back to stock )
I hope you get back your Nexus 7 then
Yeah, i unlocked my Bootloader using testpoint method too, so i wouldnt get any bricks with FOTA updates. And, i also used to be into such electronic stuff.
And, you didnt just introduced me into Android Modding World, you made me a fanatic Android Modder
Anyway, thank you once more, and yeah, thats the point, the fun about all these stuff
DeejayTelis said:
......... to check about the semc lock and if you unlocked the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, from what I've read, in ur Xperia u can simply find out the bootloader status by dialing *#*#7378423#*#* service info> configuration
rooting status
bootloader unlock allow:Yes(if locked)
bootloader unlock:yes(if unlocked)
m havin locked bootloader, so do reply with ur status and confirm this to me and evryone else
ashikonxda said:
well, from what I've read, in ur Xperia u can simply find out the bootloader status by dialing *#*#7378423#*#* service info> configuration
rooting status
bootloader unlock allow:Yes(if locked)
bootloader unlock:yes(if unlocked)
m havin locked bootloader, so do reply with ur status and confirm this to me and evryone else
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure, but i believe, that either you have locked or unlocked bootlader, it will always say "Bootloader Unlock Allowed: Yes , or No if its not allowed).
I aint sure, because in CM9.1 i dial it, and i cant get to the Service Settings, so i cannot be sure.
And, as i've found out, you can be sure if you have locked or unlocked bootloader, by running S1tool, and pressing "IDENTIFY" , which will tell you to connect your phone in flashmode (phone off, connect USB while pressing back) , and it will give something like "loader version xXXXXXX" , where the capital X , are numbers, and the small x, is either "R" or "r". If it is a small "r" , that means its unlocked, if its a capital "R" its locked.
If you want to unlock your bootloader in the Xperia Pro, just tell me , and im sure i'll help you out, with a detailed tutorial, without having any problems.
Hope i helped.
DeejayTelis said:
ashikonxda said:
well, from what I've read, in ur Xperia u can simply find out the bootloader status by dialing *#*#7378423#*#* service info> configuration
rooting status
bootloader unlock allow:Yes(if locked)
bootloader unlock:yes(if unlocked)
m havin locked bootloader, so do reply with ur status and confirm this to me and evryone else
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure, but i believe, that either you have locked or unlocked bootlader, it will always say "Bootloader Unlock Allowed: Yes , or No if its not allowed).
I aint sure, because in CM9.1 i dial it, and i cant get to the Service Settings, so i cannot be sure.
And, as i've found out, you can be sure if you have locked or unlocked bootloader, by running S1tool, and pressing "IDENTIFY" , which will tell you to connect your phone in flashmode (phone off, connect USB while pressing back) , and it will give something like "loader version xXXXXXX" , where the capital X , are numbers, and the small x, is either "R" or "r". If it is a small "r" , that means its unlocked, if its a capital "R" its locked.
If you want to unlock your bootloader in the Xperia Pro, just tell me , and im sure i'll help you out, with a detailed tutorial, without having any problems.
Hope i helped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just checked it by myself..
And i hereby confirm that under rooting status, when ur bootloader is locked i says Bootloader Unlock Allowed: Yes and when its unlocked it says Bootloader Unlocked: Yes
:good::good::good:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDIT: just learnt it just means fastboot is enabled..
ll get back soon,,
ashikonxda said:
I just checked it by myself..
And i hereby confirm that under rooting status, when ur bootloader is locked i says Bootloader Unlock Allowed: Yes and when its unlocked it says Bootloader Unlocked: Yes
:good::good::good:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDIT: just learnt it just means fastboot is enabled..
ll get back soon,,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great, if you need anything else, ill be happy to assist you.

[Q] In need of guidance :)

Hello, and sorry for bugging everyone, but I have somewhat of a problem. I'll just start from the beggining.
First of all I own a SGS II, so I'm used to flashing roms and kernels custom stuff and all...on that. My girlfriend is the one who owns a Xperia Arc S (LT18a, US version if it's relevant or not). And for the live of me, I can't summon the courage to flash it, the process being somewhat different than the flashing of a S2. That's just idiot proof in my opinion, can't go wrong. I'm seeing all over the place guides and stuff for flashing a Xperia Arc S, and don't really know wich one is good/bad etc. So...the actual questions :
1. Where can I find the stock firmwares for Xperia Arc S ? I was hopping on a website something like sammobile for samsung, where I can find every release etc.
2. She now has 2.3.4 (I think not 100% sure) build 4.0.2.A.0.62 and from what I heard that cannot be rooted, or it involved something like unlocking the bootloader or something like that, safe to say that kinda freaked me out a bit.
3. I'm guessing that this build 62 is like on my samsung, where different stock rom's are differentiated by letters (eg. XXLPG, XWLPQ etc) so, someone please confirm that.
4. Is there any noticeable difference between these gingebread builds, cause if build 62 can't be rooted, I'll downgrade to previous build that can be more easily rooted.
5. I really need a idiot proof guide to flashing this thing. She has no warranty on it and I really don't want to mess it up
6. And last (finally, I know ) some links for safe versions of flashtool (equivalent of odin from what I understand) and firmwares, stuff I need to root it etc.
I apologise for such a long post but this stuff is pretty overwhelming for me. Also I apologise for spelling errors (english is not my first language)
Wow, the things we do for love...
OK, here's a quick run-down of how it works.
Firstly the bootloader thing: -
The bootloader is where the "kernel" sits. If you unlock the bootloader then you can pretty much put anything on the phone.
You can flash a custom kernel, and from there on you can use ClockworkMod recovery the same way you do on your Samsung.
(
custom kernels have ClockworkMod recovery built into them since the XPERIA doesn't have a "/recovery" partition for the standard ClockworkMod recovery.
If that didn't make sense then here's a translation "There's no special space for CWM recovery on Sony phones! So custom kernels have CWM recovery built in for easy access."
When one of these kernels starts up the phone there's a point where the hardware buttons light up, and the LED flashes purple. If you press "volume down" at this point then the kernel starts up ClockworkMod recovery instead of booting the phone.
Most roms come with their own kernel that you can use like this. The XPERIA is different to the SGS phone because you can't flash a kernel from the phone itself. You need an unlocked bootloader and fastboot to flash a kernel.
)
So unlocking the bootloader is a good idea, but only after you've made a backup of all your stuff off the memory card.
Here's a really good thread that brings together all sorts of pieces of information that you might need to root the phone - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1653188
OK, so that's the unlock thing, and the kernel thing. Once the kernel has CWM recovery built in you can pretty much flash any rom you feel like flashing. There are already some JellyBean roms out that are fast and usable if you're prepared to read up on them and experiment a bit.
Next thing is the "BaseBand". This is the driver for the "cell phone radio". The part of the hardware that's actually responsible for behaving like a phone
Here's a thread where you can get all of the different base-band versions: - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1688049
Personally I know that base-bands 72 and 77 both work perfectly. Since they are the 2 newest versions you can choose which-ever one you want. The newer basebands give much better signal strength on the phone, and the call quality is really good.
Good luck with the experimenting - hope you enjoy.
Are you looking to upgrade her arc to ics? It is much easier to find the resources if that is the case
Sent from my LT18i using xda premium
navras1719 said:
I can't summon the courage to flash it, the process being somewhat different than the flashing of a S2. That's just idiot proof in my opinion, can't go wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So is flashing on the Arc/S, so long as you can read.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1304634
Thanks for taking the time to answer such a long and frankly, annoying post Seems I got a bit of homework, manny things to read, so...coffee and patience Hope everything will add up nicely
jman2131 said:
Are you looking to upgrade her arc to ics? It is much easier to find the resources if that is the case
Sent from my LT18i using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not really, from what I hear ICS dumbs down the phone sort of speak. Now I really can't say, but I would test it out a bit, as long as I learn how to go back to GB.
Another thing that I'm a bit concerned is that all the stuff I find are for LT18i and my gf's phone is a american model LT18a. Will this be a problem ? Or that's just to differentiate the hardware stuff in them ? I hope flashing a LT18i firmware doesn't screw anything up
navras1719 said:
Not really, from what I hear ICS dumbs down the phone sort of speak. Now I really can't say, but I would test it out a bit, as long as I learn how to go back to GB.
Another thing that I'm a bit concerned is that all the stuff I find are for LT18i and my gf's phone is a american model LT18a. Will this be a problem ? Or that's just to differentiate the hardware stuff in them ? I hope flashing a LT18i firmware doesn't screw anything up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, the differentiating factor is the hardware. the lt18i and lt18a roms are the same as far as I know. ICS does tend to be more resource heavy especially on the arcs but downgrading back to GB is basically the same method as flashing the ICS, just with another rom.
And also, in response to your first post, you can downgrade to the rootable build of GB, root that, and then flash the build 62 kernel back onto your phone so it's rooted and of the desired build
There's a lot of flashing guides on youtube regarding the arc s. I did a quick search and this one seemed pretty accurate and straight to the point.
Ok I pretty much understood the whole shabang, my last question is about the bootloader, if I unlock it once that's it ? I can flash whatever I want and not need to reunclock it...sort of speak. I read that for warranty reasons it can be relocked but that's not the case for me. Also for flashing a stock rom is it necessary to unlock the bootloader or that's just for rooting ?
Oh and almost forgot...if I understood right...I can downgrade...root...then upgrade to 62 and it will still be rooted ? On my samsung if it'a rooted and I flash abother stock rom...bye bye root, so pretty weird for me. Thank you again, I can't stress enough how helpfull you guys were.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
unlocking the bootloader allows a whole lot more things to be done with the arc, but does make some apps defunct such as track id and music facebook like (which many can do without). flashing and/or rooting a stock rom doesn't need an unlocked bootloader because it's stock and yep, you can downgrade/upgrade, root, and then go back to what build you want by flashing a kernel only
jman2131 said:
unlocking the bootloader allows a whole lot more things to be done with the arc, but does make some apps defunct such as track id and music facebook like (which many can do without).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That only applies if you use the official method to unlock, use SETool and you'll retain DRM.
Sent from my CM9'd Ray
XperienceD said:
That only applies if you use the official method to unlock, use SETool and you'll retain DRM.
Sent from my CM9'd Ray
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the clarification. I never knew much about bootloaders and all that
XperienceD said:
That only applies if you use the official method to unlock, use SETool and you'll retain DRM.
Sent from my CM9'd Ray
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you could help me out with a SETool link and a basic set of instructions that would be awsome
LE: From what I've seen there are 2 versions of SETool and one's free the other is not. Can the free version be used to unlock the bootloader or do I have to get the full version ? Or even simpler, is there anyway to unlock it (LT18a) free and without losing DRM ?
XperienceD said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1304634
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So basically from what I read there, no way for free unlock and retain DRM.
navras1719 said:
So basically from what I read there, no way for free unlock and retain DRM.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Follow the instructions up to the point just before patching and tell me what it says please?
if you unlock the bootloader NEVER UPDATE OVER THE AIR this will brick the phone.
The're 2 ways to unlock bootloader
1 via Sony web site but this only works for non branded phones,
2 is to pay if you use a service with setools this will unlock bootloader and make phone SIM free.
Xda member jinx13 offers this service contract him for more info.
Sent from my LT18i using xda premium
zolaisugly said:
2 is to pay if you use a service with setools this will unlock bootloader and make phone SIM free.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If SETool can unlock any handset I'm not sure why the S1Tool wouldn't, has anyone confirmed in the thread it doesn't work for the Arc S?
XperienceD said:
If SETool can unlock any handset I'm not sure why the S1Tool wouldn't, has anyone confirmed in the thread it doesn't work for the Arc S?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since my bootloader was opened the setools has been upgraded to setools2 which now covers more phones but not sure which.
Sent from my LT18i using xda premium
XperienceD said:
Follow the instructions up to the point just before patching and tell me what it says please?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sorry but what are you refering to ? The process that involves opening the backcover under the battery ?
Some additional info, it's not carrier branded, not sim locked...and using the service code in the dialer says bootloader unlockable : yes
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
Should have had this done already.
Sent from my CM9'd Ray

Warning: Incoming Noob - AuroraPlay v1.1.0 Install

First and foremost, I apologize for being such a noob.
I don't know what I'm doing here, since this is a place for expert developers, and I am not one.
But, I'm purchasing an Xperia Play very soon, and I ran across the AuroraPlay ROM which apparently speeds up the device a bit (Main Features - Clocked by default to 1.2GHz, Full GPU Hardware Acceleration, Boots in less than five seconds, etc.)
So, I thought, "This is really something, I should think about installing this, it'll surely make games and such a lot more fun on my Xperia Play."
I know the mere basics that anyone knows- unlocking, rooting, roms, kernels, firmware, etc.
But when it comes to getting down and actually doing something more advanced than simply rooting or unlocking a phone, I get cold feet.
What I mean by this, is I'm not completely sure how to install this ROM, and I don't want to brick my phone.
I've seen the installation instructions, though I'm still confused on some parts.
What's an Un/Locked Bootloader? How do I know if mine is un/locked?
How do I "Flash using Flashtool"? or "Root using Flashtool"?
What is X-Parts Recovery? What is ClockWorkMod? How do I use them?
At this point it may seem obvious this isn't for me, but if there is a more detailed tutorial out there for this ROM, that would be EXCELLENT! :laugh:
Again, sorry for the trouble.
Niuqorram said:
First and foremost, I apologize for being such a noob.
I don't know what I'm doing here, since this is a place for expert developers, and I am not one.
But, I'm purchasing an Xperia Play very soon, and I ran across the AuroraPlay ROM which apparently speeds up the device a bit (Main Features - Clocked by default to 1.2GHz, Full GPU Hardware Acceleration, Boots in less than five seconds, etc.)
So, I thought, "This is really something, I should think about installing this, it'll surely make games and such a lot more fun on my Xperia Play."
I know the mere basics that anyone knows- unlocking, rooting, roms, kernels, firmware, etc.
But when it comes to getting down and actually doing something more advanced than simply rooting or unlocking a phone, I get cold feet.
What I mean by this, is I'm not completely sure how to install this ROM, and I don't want to brick my phone.
I've seen the installation instructions, though I'm still confused on some parts.
What's an Un/Locked Bootloader? How do I know if mine is un/locked?
How do I "Flash using Flashtool"? or "Root using Flashtool"?
What is X-Parts Recovery? What is ClockWorkMod? How do I use them?
At this point it may seem obvious this isn't for me, but if there is a more detailed tutorial out there for this ROM, that would be EXCELLENT! :laugh:
Again, sorry for the trouble.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Un/locked bootloader is about changing kernel and u can find it with enter *#*#7378423#*#* in phone
And if u have unlocked bootloader u can flash a kernel using flashtool with going to fastboot mode(power off ur phone and hold search button then plug ur usb)
To root ur device using flashtool u should connect ur phone to computer then in flashtool click on opened lock
And x-part is an app that installing recovery for locked bootloader and with recovery u can install roms on ir phone
Sent from my R800i using xda premium
First and foremost don't think you're a noob, everyone has to begin somewhere.and I don't own an xperia play but the basics are all the same.A flashtool is a program used only to flash roms and kernels but not root your device. For rooting, there are other toolkits, most of them really simple, just plug ur phone and follow the instructions shown.as far as I know, there is no need to unlock the bootloader of ur phone as long as u flash stock based roms but to flash custom kernels and roms,u need to unlock the bootloader and the bootloader for any mobile will be LOCKED by default. Behold.. Unlocking the bootloader can only be done officially and u will forever lose warranty and some other stuff like drm keys,etc..relocking the bootloader is also possible but ur warranty still be void.clockworkmod(cwm) is a custom recovery which gives many more features than a stock recovery and is used for flashing firmwares, kernels,etc,u can see about that on YouTube cuz there are walkthroughs for almost anything.I don't know much about X-parts though.there u go.hope I helped u.hit thanks if I did.
Sent from my exquisite C6602 using xda premium.
Thanks for the replies.
By the way, is there anything I need to do with my phone before I began the installation process? The phone obviously needs to be rooted, right?
Or can it be done straight out of the box?
If u r gonna root the phone as soon as u open it,there is nothing much u need to do..download all the files beforehand and be sure to double check the model number of ur device.if u really want to flash a custom kernel,u must unlock ur bootloader and as it was said,u won't have the warranty after that.So what I suggest is u use the phone for about 2-4 days and make sure there is no defect in it,just to be sure.So happy rooting!Hit thanks if I helped.
Sent from my exquisite C6602 using xda premium.
Welcome to the forums!
When I first started rooting and flashing custom roms, the guide on the nxt rom page helped me a lot. Here-
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1649368
In the first post, follow the instructions for locked bootloader, and there is a picture guide for how to use flashtool and CWM recovery (the older version of x-parts recovery). Just replace instances of zeus_nxt2_r1.zip with the rom of your choice!
Hope I could help!
xperia play
i love this device but i want jellybean on this device ... can anyone help me out ??
Well.. If the official update has been released, u can download the file and flash it after rooting your device BUT u can also unlock the bootloader and flash a custom kernel and latest custom rom like cyanogen mod and stuff..hit thanks if I helped u in any way
Sent from my Killer Xperia Z using xda premium.
To install jelly bean you need to unlock your bootloader. The touchpads are not working very well though...
About the warranty thing, Sony says this voids your warranty, but I did it anyway a few months after I got my phone, and recently both of my cameras died (not at the same time, but I didn't care about the front camera) and they fixed them for free so maybe they still fix hardware defects (they did it for me). Of course I did re lock my bootloader before giving them my phone but they could know it since they had mY IMEI
Sent from my R800i
Sounds interesting.. They repaired ur phone for free even when they knew u had unlocked its bl?good thing that the flashtools can relock the bl..ur post knocked some confidence into me..
Sent from my Killer Xperia Z(02) using xda premium.

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