Develop Bugs

[Q] A few questions about MK16, Roms, etc.

Sorry, I know this is the arc forum, but as there is no mk16 forum, I saw that usually people post pro development's in arc's forums.
I bought an used mk16 with the 4.0.1.a.0.283 firm, and the bootloader unlockable as explained in this link the SE website.
I installed Android SDK, JDK, PC companion, etc. I was unable to install the fastboot drivers until I found someones in SE website and now it seems to be OK (blue light if I connect the phone (turned off) to the computer while holding menu key)
After that, I configured my phone to enable USB debugging. Then I installed flashtool, and I tried to root the phone with it. It worked! (I didn't expect it to work, because I saw a few post with scripts, etc. to root the phone...)
So...
- Now I am with that firmware, rooted. Wich rootable firmware do you recommend me to flash to my phone? I always loved cyanogenmod, but I don't know if there is problems with the freexperia releases (like bad quality in camera picture, low volume, etc.)
- What is the baseband? I have one ending in 49.
- What are the requirements to install clockworkmod recovery? I love this recovery to do my nand backups, etc. Do i need to unlock bootloader to this? Is there any chance to lock again the bootloader? You know, for warranty things.
- Do you have ny list of what apks are secure to erase from /system/app? For example, I don need the moxier pro, let's golf, etc.
I suppose that those questions have been answered before, but without the mk16 forum, searching that info is quite impossible...
Thanks in advance.
Search keywords: mk16 mk16i bootloader flashtool wotan

khodos said:
Sorry, I know this is the arc forum, but as there is no mk16 forum, I saw that usually people post pro development's in arc's forums.
I bought an used mk16 with the 4.0.1.a.0.283 firm, and the bootloader unlockable as explained in this link the SE website.
I installed Android SDK, JDK, PC companion, etc. I was unable to install the fastboot drivers until I found someones in SE website and now it seems to be OK (blue light if I connect the phone (turned off) to the computer while holding menu key)
After that, I configured my phone to enable USB debugging. Then I installed flashtool, and I tried to root the phone with it. It worked! (I didn't expect it to work, because I saw a few post with scripts, etc. to root the phone...)
So...
- Now I am with that firmware, rooted. Wich rootable firmware do you recommend me to flash to my phone? I always loved cyanogenmod, but I don't know if there is problems with the freexperia releases (like bad quality in camera picture, low volume, etc.)
- What is the baseband? I have one ending in 49.
- What are the requirements to install clockworkmod recovery? I love this recovery to do my nand backups, etc. Do i need to unlock bootloader to this? Is there any chance to lock again the bootloader? You know, for warranty things.
- Do you have ny list of what apks are secure to erase from /system/app? For example, I don need the moxier pro, let's golf, etc.
I suppose that those questions have been answered before, but without the mk16 forum, searching that info is quite impossible...
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Xperia Pro has a very few roms for now.The famous CM7 & CM9 are available for Xperia Pro.I guess,MIUI is also available(not sure).But,You must unlock your bootloader in order to install these roms.Rooted phone is not enough to install these roms.Atleast not yet. And rest assured,there is not drawback regarding camera and volume.Different users have different taste,many like it and many dont.But the fact is they are closely equal.
Basebands are well explained by a XDA member in the following post,please do take a look at it
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1462360
For CWM, you only need a rooted phone.And the easiest way to install CWM on locked-bootloader Xperia 2011 device is by using this beautiful app from the following link.Go check it out
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1437840
For relocking bootloader,i haven't come across any thread which claims to relock Xperia Pro's bootloader.But yes,relocking Xperia Arc's bootloader is poosible.You can give it a try but I'm not sure if it would work on Xperia Pro or not.Here is the link:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1134335&highlight=relock
Here again,we have a the list of system apks with their descriptions for Xperia Arc's firmware.I assume that the Xperia Pro Has Almost the same System Apks with it so the list for Xperia Arc would also imply for Xperia Pro as well.Here is the link:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1089470
PS: Welcome To XDA

Thank you very much for all that information and the wellcome.
I can execute commands like "fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version" or "fastboot.exe devices" while in fastboot mode, so I assume that's OK.
But in the SE website they are very insistent about voiding warranty depending of blablabla. My phone is an unlocked (SIM free) from fabric one. I understand it will void the warranty if the phone would be form Vodafone (for example), but not mine... Do you know anything about this?
Do you recommend me any official rom? maybe the .42 one?
Now I have clear everything about the baseband, thanks.
That CWM apps you linked say to me (downloades form market) that MK16i is not supported by the app
I will take a look at that APK list, but first I want to be able do a NAND backup before starting to remove apks
Thanks again.

khodos said:
Thank you very much for all that information and the wellcome.
I can execute commands like "fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version" or "fastboot.exe devices" while in fastboot mode, so I assume that's OK.
But in the SE website they are very insistent about voiding warranty depending of blablabla. My phone is an unlocked (SIM free) from fabric one. I understand it will void the warranty if the phone would be form Vodafone (for example), but not mine... Do you know anything about this?
Do you recommend me any official rom? maybe the .42 one?
Now I have clear everything about the baseband, thanks.
That CWM apps you linked say to me (downloades form market) that MK16i is not supported by the app
I will take a look at that APK list, but first I want to be able do a NAND backup before starting to remove apks
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See, Unlocked phone means the phone is SIM free,i.e you can use any carrier SIM in your phone.But, Unlocked-Bootloader is a different thing.When you unlock bootloader,then you are free to flash any ROM which is compatible with your phone.Unlocking Bootloader voids warranty and that is what the SE website is trying to say.
I would recommend you to update your phone to the official .42 fimware version because it has many new features when compared to .283 ROM.Use SE update service or PC Companion for updating your phone.
And about cwm..try this...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1302037&highlight=cwm

Thx again
I know the diff between sim locked and bootloader looked. It's just that I don't understand why they let you unlock the bootloader, but don't keep the warranty...
I have unlocked the bootloader right now. Didn't know that it wipes all your configuration, apps, etc! At least, it's still rooted.
I have installed that CWM, and booted to it, but now I don't know what combination do I have to press to boot again into CWM XD Maybe is an image to boot just one time?
And about the ROM you recommend, PC Companion offers me the .62, not the .42. SE Update Service tells me that I have modified software (because of the rooting, I suppose) so it can't update my phone. Any idea?
Thanks again

khodos said:
Thx again
I know the diff between sim locked and bootloader looked. It's just that I don't understand why they let you unlock the bootloader, but don't keep the warranty...
I have unlocked the bootloader right now. Didn't know that it wipes all your configuration, apps, etc! At least, it's still rooted.
And about the ROM you recommend, PC Companion offers me the .62, not the .42. SE Update Service tells me that I have modified software (because of the rooting, I suppose) so it can't update my phone. Any idea?
Thanks again
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now that you have unlocked-bootloader, then you must not use SE update service,niether PC Companion Update nor SE OTA updates !! If you do,then it will brick your phone.
The other option you have is to flash a firmware.For more details follow this link http://www.wotanserver.com/en/sony-ericsson/se/xperia-pro-mk16/unlock-tool/debranding-flash

Thx!
I edited my previous post with this:
I have installed that CWM, and booted to it, but now I don't know what combination do I have to press to boot again into CWM XD Taking a look at the commands executed in the bat, maybe is an image to boot just one time?
Thanks about the wotan link. Really easy to flash. Now I'm in .42. Do you know where can I find the firmware changelogs?
I'll take a second look to flashtool, because I'm going to need it to flash the CM 7.2 and the baseband...
Thanks again.

khodos said:
Thx!
I edited my previous post with this:
I have installed that CWM, and booted to it, but now I don't know what combination do I have to press to boot again into CWM XD Taking a look at the commands executed in the bat, maybe is an image to boot just one time?
Thanks about the wotan link. Really easy to flash. Now I'm in .42. Do you know where can I find the firmware changelogs?
I'll take a second look to flashtool, because I'm going to need it to flash the CM 7.2 and the baseband...
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Search in this forum and you can find the changelog
Have fun.
Sent from my LT18i using XDA

QUESTION
AFTER OPENING THE BOOTLOADER
I CAN FLASH THE ROM AN OFFICIAL FTF?

PANCHOMATASANO said:
AFTER OPENING THE BOOTLOADER
I CAN FLASH THE ROM AN OFFICIAL FTF?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea sure..
---------- Post added at 01:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:58 PM ----------
khodos said:
Thx!
I edited my previous post with this:
I have installed that CWM, and booted to it, but now I don't know what combination do I have to press to boot again into CWM XD Taking a look at the commands executed in the bat, maybe is an image to boot just one time?
Thanks about the wotan link. Really easy to flash. Now I'm in .42. Do you know where can I find the firmware changelogs?
I'll take a second look to flashtool, because I'm going to need it to flash the CM 7.2 and the baseband...
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well if u wan a permantent CWM based recovery and u r using any stock or stock based ROM use this kernel.. flash it using fastboot..
http://www.mediafire.com/?m4f43973m3vxybs

PANCHOMATASANO said:
AFTER OPENING THE BOOTLOADER
I CAN FLASH THE ROM AN OFFICIAL FTF?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you just need to flash an official firmware, then there is no need to unlock the bootloader. I was advised not to unlock it when not necessary (for example to flash the phone with some custom ROM like CM). Because with locked bootloader you should not be able to brick the phone and you could be always able to save the situation using Sony PC Companion.
So if you need to flash an official firmware, you can do it without any unlocking via Wotanserver. The firmware flashing is free, just register there. The flashing is very easy - there is a graphic wizard which tells you what to do.
EDIT: Ooops, flashing FW using Wotanserver is no longer free - costs 2 EUR now. Few weeks ago I flashed my phone there for free...

my xperia play is bricked or the bootloader is damaged

HEEELLLLLLLP my xperia play is not working any more after i rooted it for 2 days and its not working so how can i fix it???and can i root it again???
it is r800i and its 2.3.4 and when its chargin it opens the homepage but does not work i mean like when the phone says slide to open i cant use touch screen and if its not in charge it just writes sony erricson

upppppppppppppppppppppppp

Moved to Xperia Play Q&A.
You'll probably want to include more information so that others will know how to help you. Such as what all you've tried, what your phones is doing, what software version it had, etc.

xHausx said:
Moved to Xperia Play Q&A.
You'll probably want to include more information so that others will know how to help you. Such as what all you've tried, what your phones is doing, what software version it had, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also which model of Play
Sent from my R800x using xda premium

its r800i

Try flashing a fresh firmware. You may not be able to boot, but flash mode should still work.
If you need firmware files use the link in my signature.
Sent from a Galaxy far, far away

captain67 said:
Try flashing a fresh firmware. You may not be able to boot, but flash mode should still work.
If you need firmware files use the link in my signature.
Sent from a Galaxy far, far away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but im a beginner so can u write the steps??? and thx

ozzy122 said:
but im a beginner so can u write the steps??? and thx
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll need FlashTool: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1351299
And the original firmware (.ftf file): http://www.xperiagamer.com/Stock-Roms/234-stock-firmware-for-flashtool.html
1.) Install the FlashTool and software, it will come with drivers for your phone.
2.) Power your phone off.
3.) Hold down the BACK button and plug the USB cable in from computer to phone.
4.) You should see a green LED, meaning you're in Flash Mode.
5.)From there can choose to flash the firmware of your choice (.ftf file).
The FlashTool software is fairly simple to use. The interface is very easy to understand, you shouldn't have any problem.

Solar.Plexus said:
You'll need FlashTool: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1351299
And the original firmware (.ftf file): http://www.xperiagamer.com/Stock-Roms/234-stock-firmware-for-flashtool.html
1.) Install the FlashTool and software, it will come with drivers for your phone.
2.) Power your phone off.
3.) Hold down the BACK button and plug the USB cable in from computer to phone.
4.) You should see a green LED, meaning you're in Flash Mode.
5.)From there can choose to flash the firmware of your choice (.ftf file).
The FlashTool software is fairly simple to use. The interface is very easy to understand, you shouldn't have any problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thx sooooo much

Its not bricked. Bricked means total hardware failure and it can only be used as a paperweight.
Sent from my R800x using XDA

[Q] Xperia Play cannot boot after trying to update

Help my xperia play cannot boot anymore after trying to update to 2.3.4 (from 2.3.2). It is rooted (though I am not sure whether bootloader is unlocked most probably it isn't). When it was updating, I accidentally pressed the power button and it switched off. The next moment, I found myself with a bricked phone that just vibrates when I pressed the power button. I tried flashing the rom in already but the situation still persists. Can anyone help?

sonyxperiaplayer said:
Help my xperia play cannot boot anymore after trying to update to 2.3.4 (from 2.3.2). It is rooted (though I am not sure whether bootloader is unlocked most probably it isn't). When it was updating, I accidentally pressed the power button and it switched off. The next moment, I found myself with a bricked phone that just vibrates when I pressed the power button. I tried flashing the rom in already but the situation still persists. Can anyone help?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, you don't mention which model of the Play you have. If you aren't sure, you can remove the battery and look on the sticker. It will say something like "R800x" or "R800i", etc.
Once you know what this is, you can reflash the original firmware. This will put the phone back to the original, unrooted stock version, just like it just came out of the box. Most of the firmwares needed are found in this post right here. The firmware file is usually archived either with rar or zip, so you will need to unarchive it. You will also need to download and install Flashtool which can be found here. In the event you can't access the file from there, a mirror link is found here.
Once you have the necessary files, it's pretty easy to do. There are complete instructions on the Flashtool site, but basically you just copy the ftf file into the firmwares folder within the Flashtool folder. Then launch Flashtool and follow the on screen instructions.
Post back with results or questions. And please hit the Thanks button if I helped you.

Nothing
It is still the same.

My Play is r800i by the way
My Play is r800i by the way

Special ftf file?
I heard that I must use a special ftf file to unbrick my phone. Any ideas? Thanks

I think its from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126354

But then the links are not working (I think)

from my noob knowledge if you ota with bootloader unlocked then you will brick the device but in your 1st post you said you aint sure if its locked or unlocked. then in your second last post you tried to download the FOTAunbrick.exe file but you said the download link is unavailable. download FOTAunbrick.exe and run it (the link isn't dead just downloaded it myself for safe keeping) or xperia_relock_bootloader.ftf(2nd option) i have below. you got nothing to lose.
ps
next time you wanna upgrade just use wontan server(not free) or download an ftf. and flash it via flashtool here with the same instructions dude in the second post has given regarding flashtool steps

sonyxperiaplayer said:
I heard that I must use a special ftf file to unbrick my phone. Any ideas? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The link there is dead in some countries, like the US, as it is MultiUpload. @Solomon4400 - I suggest posting that file up to another site that sonyxperiaplayer can access to download it.
@ sonyxperiaplayer - you actually downloaded the ftf and the flashtool program I linked you to? Because normally that ought to do it.

I agree with netizenmt on this one.
the special ftf files you are seeking is the stock rom firmware he already managed.
As you got r800i, you have to flash the international stock firmware (I guess but I am not sure!) you could also just flash stock rom 2.3.4 - So you can upgrage while saving your phone - instead of re-applieing 2.3.2
Just get flashtool and firmware (ftf file) connect phone to pc, put ftf file in flashtool, follow instructions. Good to go

If you need any firmware files, check my signature. The links in that post actually work.
Sent from a Galaxy far, far away

captain67 said:
If you need any firmware files, check my signature. The links in that post actually work.
Sent from a Galaxy far, far away
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does that mean the ones in your thread that I linked him to do not?
Sent from my R800x using xda premium

Unbricked it!
Thank all if you guys so much! The phone finally turned on after i used bootloader relock!

netizenmt said:
Does that mean the ones in your thread that I linked him to do not?
Sent from my R800x using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I was referring to the multiupload links that he mentioned. Didn't see your post up there.
Sent from my Overcome Galaxy Tab 10.1

[repair][arc/arc s]unbrick and restore to stock

If you messed up your ROM by installing wrong kernel, not wiping data, doing stuff in the wrong order etc, and your ROM doesn't start and you don't know how to fix it...
Follow these instructions to return to:
1. Stock Gingerbread
2. Stock ICS
3. Stock ICS + root
1. Choose appropriate FTF file and download:
ONLY LT15i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/lpdhtmqi/LT15i_4.0.2.A.0.62_Generic Global World.ftf
.42 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/vmfu4czg
ONLY LT15a
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/f58llc72
ONLY LT18i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/gsfx4w60
2. Download and install flashtool https://github.com/Androxyde/Flashtool/zipball/master
3. In settings on phone, allow unknown sources, turn on usb debugging. (if you can't start your phone, ignore.)
4. Turn off phone.
5. Connect usb cable to phone, hold back key while plugging the USB to the pc. LED is now GREEN
6. Open flashtool, drag the downloaded FTF file to the flashtool window. Press ok.
7. You may need to reconnect the phone the same way as before.
8. The stock GB is now flashing. Gingerbread 2.3.4 INSTALLED
From here the phone is fixed and you can do whatever you want.
ICS:
9. Connect the phone to the computer and install ics 4.0.3 via pc companion/sony update service.
ROOT:
10. Download rootkit: http://bit.ly/ert_xperia_2011_ics_1
11. Extract files anywhere.
12. Again make sure unknown sources are allowed, turn on usb debugging.
13. Run runme.bat
Phone is now rooted.
I can not guarantee that this will work for you/your device however I am quite confident that if you follow the instructions carefully you will succeed.
Please press THANKS if I helped.

Not helpful with people for ICS, why would you do this when there are so many threads like this?

MrModMan said:
Not helpful with people for ICS, why would you do this when there are so many threads like this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This can be helpful for anyone whose ROM isn't working. It is directed to noobs who accidentally ruins their custom ROM so they can start over. Also the reason why I'm doing this is because I searched the forums and I could not find a guide that was simple for noobs to understand, which would always work no matter what you did wrong. I've used this method so many times and it has saved me countless times. I thought the least I could do was to share.
I hope I answered your questions.

Why why why do People use uploaded.to links, and feel the need to rehost files to it. Just link directly to the flashtool and use mediafire for anything else.
Sent from my CM9'd Arc

XperienceD said:
Why why why do People use uploaded.to links, and feel the need to rehost files to it. Just link directly to the flashtool and use mediafire for anything else.
Sent from my CM9'd Arc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I collected links from different guides/threads on youtube and xda and assembled them into this full guide. I did not bother to re-upload the files because I did not find it necessary though I agree, mediafire is really good. I will change flashtool link.

Thanks for taking the time to make this guide, sadly when I was a real noob I couldn't find any guide like this...
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

Great guide, got my phone back up and running :good:
Sent from my LT18i

quite handy for those who tried jelly and got stucked.

Unverified fast download for stock GB ROM.
http://minus.com/lbq1F5p8H17EA0

Thanks phone starts now.. Cant update to ICS but.
Charl96 said:
If you messed up your ROM by installing wrong kernel, not wiping data, doing stuff in the wrong order etc, and your ROM doesn't start and you don't know how to fix it...
Follow these instructions to return to:
1. Stock Gingerbread
2. Stock ICS
3. Stock ICS + root
1. Choose appropriate FTF file and download:
ONLY LT15i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/lpdhtmqi/LT15i_4.0.2.A.0.62_Generic Global World.ftf
.42 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/vmfu4czg
ONLY LT15a
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/f58llc72
ONLY LT18i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/gsfx4w60
2. Download and install flashtool https://github.com/Androxyde/Flashtool/zipball/master
3. In settings on phone, allow unknown sources, turn on usb debugging. (if you can't start your phone, ignore.)
4. Turn off phone.
5. Connect usb cable to phone, hold back key while plugging the USB to the pc. LED is now GREEN
6. Open flashtool, drag the downloaded FTF file to the flashtool window. Press ok.
7. You may need to reconnect the phone the same way as before.
8. The stock GB is now flashing. Gingerbread 2.3.4 INSTALLED
From here the phone is fixed and you can do whatever you want.
ICS:
9. Connect the phone to the computer and install ics 4.0.3 via pc companion/sony update service.
ROOT:
10. Download rootkit: http://bit.ly/ert_xperia_2011_ics_1
11. Extract files anywhere.
12. Again make sure unknown sources are allowed, turn on usb debugging.
13. Run runme.bat
Phone is now rooted.
I can not guarantee that this will work for you/your device however I am quite confident that if you follow the instructions carefully you will succeed.
Please press THANKS if I helped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot.. This worked of LT15i.. My phone is up and running on GB 2.3.4 but it doesn't get updated to ICS thru Sony update service/pc companion. I tried it 2-3times & it give the same error. "The phone contains modified software that cannot be updated" See attached Screenshot.
How to upgrade to ICS now ? Any other way ?

NilayS said:
How to upgrade to ICS now ? Any other way ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The same way you flashed GB, except use ICS ftf's and root methods.

XperienceD said:
The same way you flashed GB, except use ICS ftf's and root methods.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.. searching the development thread for stock ics ftfs.. BTW do you have any working ICS ftf links ?

NilayS said:
Thanks.. searching the development thread for stock ics ftfs.. BTW do you have any working ICS ftf links ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my Arc guide, or Google or general browsing of the forum will help with your search.

NilayS said:
Thanks a lot.. This worked of LT15i.. My phone is up and running on GB 2.3.4 but it doesn't get updated to ICS thru Sony update service/pc companion. I tried it 2-3times & it give the same error. "The phone contains modified software that cannot be updated" See attached Screenshot.
How to upgrade to ICS now ? Any other way ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you bootloader is unlocked NEVER accept updates OTA unless you want to brick your phone!
Sent from my Xperia Arc S using xda premium

cannot update
After following the link, my phone is on stock GB 2.3.4 so obviously i connected my device to pc to get official 4.0 update via sony PC companion and after it downloads the software and tries to install it into my phone it says "your device contains modified software which cannot be updated" please help !!

Not helping me
Charl96 said:
This can be helpful for anyone whose ROM isn't working. It is directed to noobs who accidentally ruins their custom ROM so they can start over. Also the reason why I'm doing this is because I searched the forums and I could not find a guide that was simple for noobs to understand, which would always work no matter what you did wrong. I've used this method so many times and it has saved me countless times. I thought the least I could do was to share.
I hope I answered your questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have same problem with my ARC S, but by following the instructions flashtool stuck at device connected in flash mode and goes no where and my device turn off automatically.

Connect your device only when prompted to by flashtool.
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

Thanks for reply but
tangosierra_ said:
Connect your device only when prompted to by flashtool.
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for reply but i have followed all instruction by flashtool and i had connected device when flashtool told me to do so but in vain. can you help me?

xda_hawk said:
After following the link, my phone is on stock GB 2.3.4 so obviously i connected my device to pc to get official 4.0 update via sony PC companion and after it downloads the software and tries to install it into my phone it says "your device contains modified software which cannot be updated" please help !!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand this reply is far too late but for people in the future:
You cannot upgrade to ICS when your bootloader is unlocked. You can easily lock it again using this small FTF file. When the upgrade with PC companion is complete, you can continiue modifying your phone with custom ROMs etc.

junaidtahir said:
Thanks for reply but i have followed all instruction by flashtool and i had connected device when flashtool told me to do so but in vain. can you help me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is very hard for me to know what is causing this problem. Some minor modifications to the flashing procedure can potentially fix it. Try doing it like this: Open FlashTool, drag the FTF-file and drop it in the dialog box. Press ok and wait for the instructions to pop up. When they do, connect the USB-cable FIRST to the phone and after that hold back key while plugging it to the computer. If the battery of the phone is too low I think it can cause problems, try to charge your battery (if possible) and try again. Also make sure to flash the appropriate FTF-file, accordning to your model.

From Samsung to Sony and confused about Bootloader unlocking.

Im thinking of buying a Z5P and while i have searched a lot, i just cant seem to find the answer to a question i have maybe someone here can help. On Sonys developer website there is instructions on how to unlock the bootloader and the last line of the instructions are as follows, note the part in blue text.
Tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can continue with the next step. If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked.[/B]
My question is how/where do i buy a Z5P that will definitely be Bootloader unlock allowed yes, surely its not just a case of random devices are unlockable is it? I was going to buy this from carphone its sim free so im expecting to be allowed to unlock the bootloader but dont want to buy it only to find i cant.
http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/phones/sony-xperia-z5-premium/handset?colourCode=BLACK

If the phone has no SIM lock, it's bootloader should be unlockable. I say "should" since I am not aware of other factors that keep the bootloader locked, but there might as well be.
On another note, unless you are a fairly advanced user and are set on flashing your device with a custom kernel, I would not recommend a bootloader unlock before root or an option to back up of TA becomes available.
It contains your device's DRM which gets irreversibly lost which makes your camera perform worse(BIONZ stops working), among other things.

CPW is the place to go for unlockable fones. I got my Z5P from there.
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Free mobile app

As mentioned elsewhere, IN GENERAL (rare exceptions) - if it's SIM-unlocked it'll be bootloader-unlockable. If it's SIM-locked, the bootloader is almost guaranteed to be perma-locked.
While SIM locks and bootloader locks are technolgically independent, in the case of Sony devices (This rule of thumb can NOT be applied to any other manufacturer), SIMlocked devices have a permanent bootloader lock, devices sold without a SIM lock can have bootloader unlocked. Note that in the case of phones sold with a SIM lock that are later unlocked with a PIN - the bootloader lock is still disallowed.

Cheese for the replys everyone I got the phone from the carphone and its boot loader unlock allowed yes
I got the regular z5 instead though.

Hey, Dunno if I have an option or not, but my phone says Bootloader Unlock Allowed: No.
I imagine that it's a no, but is there any way to unlock the BL? If not I may consider swapping the Z5P out for something else, dunno if I can live without root

NJ72 said:
Hey, Dunno if I have an option or not, but my phone says Bootloader Unlock Allowed: No.
I imagine that it's a no, but is there any way to unlock the BL? If not I may consider swapping the Z5P out for something else, dunno if I can live without root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try flashing another firmware through flashtool that is allowed.

KbaB.BroS said:
Try flashing another firmware through flashtool that is allowed.
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Click to collapse
Worth a punt, didn't think about that. The only concern is that Flashtool isn't supported for the Z5p according to Sony's site.

NJ72 said:
Worth a punt, didn't think about that. The only concern is that Flashtool isn't supported for the Z5p according to Sony's site.
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As long as you use flashmode there is no need to be supported, because the program doesn't know which phone it is in that state. I flashed my Z5P once using flashtool about a week ago.

KbaB.BroS said:
As long as you use flashmode there is no need to be supported, because the program doesn't know which phone it is in that state. I flashed my Z5P once using flashtool about a week ago.
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Click to collapse
OK, cool, thanks.
Where do I get the firmware from for Flashtool? Can I flash something like AurRom using Flashtool?
Sorry for the idiot questions, but I haven't used Flashtool very much at all. Much more familiar with ODIN, ADB and flashing through recovery...

NJ72 said:
OK, cool, thanks.
Where do I get the firmware from for Flashtool? Can I flash something like AurRom using Flashtool?
Sorry for the idiot questions, but I haven't used Flashtool very much at all. Much more familiar with ODIN, ADB and flashing through recovery...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Install flashtool from "flashtool.net"
It comes bundled with Xperifirm where you can download ftf files for every Xperia device. You access Xperifirm through the Flashtool program.
You cannot flash AurROM through flashtool because it's not a ftf file. Flash a stock rom and try unlocking the Bootloader afterwards.
And don't worry about asking "stupid questions". This thread is made for every kind of questions, as long as it's about the device.

KbaB.BroS said:
Install flashtool from "flashtool.net"
It comes bundled with Xperifirm where you can download ftf files for every Xperia device. You access Xperifirm through the Flashtool program.
You cannot flash AurROM through flashtool because it's not a ftf file. Flash a stock rom and try unlocking the Bootloader afterwards.
And don't worry about asking "stupid questions". This thread is made for every kind of questions, as long as it's about the device.
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Click to collapse
Thanks very much.
One final question, in the UK I have EE WiFi calling currently - if I install non-carrier specific firmware I will most likely lose this. Is there any way I can backup the existing software so I can revert whether the flashtool flash works or not?

NJ72 said:
Thanks very much.
One final question, in the UK I have EE WiFi calling currently - if I install non-carrier specific firmware I will most likely lose this. Is there any way I can backup the existing software so I can revert whether the flashtool flash works or not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can try this guide:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=F0bSsGxFdks

NJ72 said:
Thanks very much.
One final question, in the UK I have EE WiFi calling currently - if I install non-carrier specific firmware I will most likely lose this. Is there any way I can backup the existing software so I can revert whether the flashtool flash works or not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you want to do is follow sonys instructions on how to check if your phone is able to unlock bootloader here: http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
If you can unlock your bootloader, which you will know after performing the simple steps provided by sony, then you need to install android studio along with required drivers etc, before you can actually unlock the bootloader.
Android studio can be found here: http://developer.android.com/sdk/installing/index.html?pkg=studio
Read everything throughly, it is important to get all the details regarding usage and installation.
After installing Android studio, you should download all the required SDK's found inside android studio->Configure->SDK Manager.
On the left side you will see several options in the navigation menu.
First go to Appearance & Behavior->System settings->Android SDK. Then in the "window" you have, make sure the first tab is selected (SDK Platforms).
Here you need to check all the android versions your phone(s) run.
Then go to the second tab (SDK Tools) and download:
Android SDK Build Tools
Android SDK Tools 24.4.1
Android SDK Platform-Tools 23.1
Google USB Driver
Android NDK
I am not sure if you really need the NDK one, but the rest I think is required. You can do as I did and choose all if you want.
On the last tab (SDK Update Sites) I have checked everything.
When you have done all of this, you should install Flashtool and go to the install directory and open the Driver folder, where you will find a .exe file. Run this and click next untill you can choose a few items from a list, in this list you should check Fastboot drivers, and USB drivers, and any other options that are relevant to your use, then finish the installation. (The entire installation of Flashtool should be done with 100% admin rights on the user).
After this is done, connect your phone to your pc and go to device management on your pc and you will likely find something similar to this:
If you have this yellow exclamation mark triangle thingy, then you will need to manually install your USB drivers.
Download your driver here: http://developer.sonymobile.com/downloads/drivers/
Then right click the yellow exclamation mark triangle thingy device in device management, and select update driver, then select "Browse my computer for driver software".
On the next window, select "Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer".
In the list that appears, select "Show All Devices" and click next.
Click the "Have Disk" button, then navigate to the driver you downloaded, and you will get 3 options in the window on you screen, select "Android ADB Interface" and click next.
Confirm by pressing "Yes" Then press "Install".
If completed without problems you should see "Windows has successfully updated your driver software".
*NOTE* On the above steps, you can also navigate to the folder where you installed android studio, which should be something similar to this: C:\Program Files(x86)\Android\android-sdk\extras\google\usb_driver OR it can be found your USER folder.
and here you can install the usb_driver aswell, which should make most phones support USB debugging and ADB on via your pc.*NOTE*
now reconnect your phone and the exclamation mark triangle thingy should be gone, good!
Next thing you can do is navigate to the installation folder of Android studio, and go to the Platform-Tools folder.
Inside the folder, hold down shift, while right clicking any white empty space inside the folder, and click open terminal here.
In the terminal, type: "adb devices" /Without the " marks. then it should say something about daemon not running etc, when its done, do the same command again, and you should se you device listed. Good, at this point you are ready to unlock bootloader!
If you have succeeded in every step so far, then go ahead and unlock bootloader following sonys instructions!
When you are done, you can simply follow the guides provided in the custom Rom thread itself most of the time.
If not, then a simple way to do it is:
Get all the files you need for the rom flash. That means Kernel, rom img, and a custom recovery like TWRP and SuperSU.
It is REALLY important that all files are for your device specifically!
Put the SuperSU.zip and the custom Rom.zip on your sd card and put it in the phone.
To avoid any trouble, do as I did and save all those files in the Platform-Tools folder, because you need to open the terminal as shown earlier in the post, by holding shift and right clicking in the same folder as the files, this is a must.
Open the terminal from the same folder as the rom, kernel and recovery.
type:
Code:
fastboot flash boot NAMEOFYOUR_KERNEL.img (This is usually boot.img)
fastboot flash recovery NAMEOFYOUR_RECOVERY.img (Usually contains TWRP in name)
fastboot reboot
You should now press volume up key when a led lights up while you see the sony logo, a orange light, not the red one, this will bring you into recovery, from here choose install, then navigate to your SuperSU.zip and install it.
Reboot your phone and you are now rooted, if you also have a custom rom, then place it on your sd card like the SuperSU.zip, but make sure the custom rom is a ZIP file!
Boot into recovery and install the custom rom, wipe cache and dalvick cache.
Congratulations on your custom rom!
Hope this helps a bit, sorry for any errors, but this is exactly how I did it, as far as I can remember!
Btw, this can seem like alot of work, especially when and if you encounter any problems while installing. I know I did encounter ALOT of them, but hopefully with my simple guide you can avoid them!
Luckily, this is just something you have to do once if you do it 100% right!

xirt0n said:
What you want to do is follow sonys instructions on how to check if your phone is able to unlock bootloader here: http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
If you can unlock your bootloader, which you will know after performing the simple steps provided by sony, then you need to install android studio along with required drivers etc, before you can actually unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The problem he has is that his stock ROM (or the phone itself) doesn't allow bootloader unlocking, probably because of SIM and carrier lock. Therefore he first needs to find a way to make the phone unlockable.

KbaB.BroS said:
The problem he has is that his stock ROM (or the phone itself) doesn't allow bootloader unlocking, probably because of SIM and carrier lock. Therefore he first needs to find a way to make the phone unlockable.
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Click to collapse
I am no expert on this, but doesnt the carrier decide if its locked or not?
I've seen people solve it by flashing different and unbranded firmware, but not for this particular phone tho, but I dont think it's officially possible.

xirt0n said:
I am no expert on this, but doesnt the carrier decide if its locked or not?
I've seen people solve it by flashing different and unbranded firmware, but not for this particular phone tho, but I dont think it's officially possible.
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Click to collapse
At this point he could at least try, he's got nothing to lose. I have never had this problem, because I buy my phones unlocked no carrier involved, so these are only suggestions.

KbaB.BroS said:
At this point he could at least try, he's got nothing to lose. I have never had this problem, because I buy my phones unlocked no carrier involved, so these are only suggestions.
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Click to collapse
Yeah, what I would try is first just try to do a full restore of your phone via PC Companion, and if that doesnt work then id try downloading an unbranded firmware from XperiFirm (If I am not mistaken, those named CUSTOM or something are unbranded) and then flash that via flashtool and see if that works, if not then your last hope is to get it replaced by warranty, which I'd say is fraud if the device isnt actually malfunctioning.

xirt0n said:
Yeah, what I would try is first just try to do a full restore of your phone via PC Companion, and if that doesnt work then id try downloading an unbranded firmware from XperiFirm (If I am not mistaken, those named CUSTOM or something are unbranded) and then flash that via flashtool and see if that works, if not then your last hope is to get it replaced by warranty, which I'd say is fraud if the device isnt actually malfunctioning.
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Click to collapse
I don't think PC Companion works at all, because the only thing it does is downloading identical firmware like the one on the phone. So Flashtool only choice.
I replaced mine with one from flashtool that has a lot less bloatware it originally came with.

KbaB.BroS said:
I don't think PC Companion works at all, because the only thing it does is downloading identical firmware like the one on the phone. So Flashtool only choice.
I replaced mine with one from flashtool that has a lot less bloatware it originally came with.
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Ok, I never personally used PC companion so I didnt know what it does, I just saw people suggest it around