Develop Bugs

[Q] Unbrick GN2 (Firmware upgrade encountered an issue)

Before you guys read this thread, let me just go ahead and say that i AM in fact a XDA noob... so dont hate. I didnt come here for that, but i came for help. Now, i did notice that there were alot of people having similar problems as i was. And yes, i did read all those threads. BUT, the only difference was, they got that error while trying to unroot. I was trying to root mine. I simply tried flashing CWM (and yes i made sure it was the correct flash as well) and it failed. Tried rebooting the phone, and i got that error. I am honestly freaking out right now as to if i have lost my phone or not, so i wouldnt appreciate hate in the comments, that would not help. So please help if possible... Is there a way to fix this?

We're you on stock Rom. How did you try a put CWM on your phone?? Odin??
Best way to install a recovery is Odin or goo manger!!
If you can get the phone into download mode then you can just flash back to your stock firmware...
Unless you flashed the wrong recovery on your phone. Then your in store for brick city.
Start here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1980644
TWRP thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1981198
All in ONE thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1987541
Good luck with your problems.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 4 Beta

Bajanman said:
We're you on stock Rom. How did you try a put CWM on your phone?? Odin??
Best way to install a recovery is Odin or goo manger!!
If you can get the phone into download mode then you can just flash back to your stock firmware...
Unless you flashed the wrong recovery on your phone. Then your in store for brick city.
Start here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1980644
TWRP thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1981198
All in ONE thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1987541
Good luck with your problems.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks, i was actually on odin. But i think i found the solution. You see, when i was trying to find a solution on my own, i accidentally ended up installing a verizon rom on my phone which is att. (i didnt know it was verizon) The rom works, but i cant use mobile data, because its not a verizon SIM card. However, i managed to install TWRP recovery with goomanager, and from that i will attempt to install the JediXP14 custom rom. Strangely, it seems the phone is rooted even though i was told it failed. I will let you know on the progress, should be done in an hour or so.

Oh boy..... I smell brick city.. You better be careful what ur doing with Odin... If u are flashing stock firmware in Odin it flashes the radio with it....

Ok guys, i SOMEWHAT resolved the issue. But there are alot better ways of doing it, i was just forced to do it the following way:
The only flash rom i could get to go in through odin was a Verizon rom. It was basically the stock Note 2 rom for verizon.
Now the only problem with this, is that obviously, my phone is ATT and this is a Verizon rom, but it WILL work, but with an exception. Wifi and all will work, you can call and receive messages, but you cannot access the internet via mobile data. So that was another issue that popped up. I tried flashing an att stock rom through odin, but it stayed stuck at "Setup Connection" so that didnt work. The only solution i could think of was to unlock the rom, so i could use data with my ATT sim card. Strangely, the phone thought that it was a Verizon phone when it was an ATT phone, so that was the only option. It required a root but that wasnt a problem. I installed Hidroid off the play store and unlocked it that way, and now everything works fine. There is still an error message in the status bar saying "Non-Verizon SIM" but despite that message, everything still is in working order. If anyone knows what to do once you first get that error message, you could post it below for anyone else having the same problem. And if there is a way to change it back to the normal ATT stock, that would be appreciated as well. Thanks

Nintendoassasin64 said:
Ok guys, i SOMEWHAT resolved the issue. But there are alot better ways of doing it, i was just forced to do it the following way:
The only flash rom i could get to go in through odin was a Verizon rom. It was basically the stock Note 2 rom for verizon.
Now the only problem with this, is that obviously, my phone is ATT and this is a Verizon rom, but it WILL work, but with an exception. Wifi and all will work, you can call and receive messages, but you cannot access the internet via mobile data. So that was another issue that popped up. I tried flashing an att stock rom through odin, but it stayed stuck at "Setup Connection" so that didnt work. The only solution i could think of was to unlock the rom, so i could use data with my ATT sim card. Strangely, the phone thought that it was a Verizon phone when it was an ATT phone, so that was the only option. It required a root but that wasnt a problem. I installed Hidroid off the play store and unlocked it that way, and now everything works fine. There is still an error message in the status bar saying "Non-Verizon SIM" but despite that message, everything still is in working order. If anyone knows what to do once you first get that error message, you could post it below for anyone else having the same problem. And if there is a way to change it back to the normal ATT stock, that would be appreciated as well. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe you just need to flash att modem with ril for your device. Scroll down and dload the one for att then flash using cwm or twrp. After flashing modem try flashing att rom again via Odin.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2016575
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317M

Ok guys I resolved the problem. But it took more steps than it needed. This is for people who accidentally flashed the wrong type of recovery to your phone (example, gt-1700 version of cm what on sgh-I317) I'll be renaming this thread if I can. So here's all the steps I took. Now keep in mind that I didn't exactly know what I was doing so I kind of learned on the way, like I said in the beginning of this thread, I am a noob, and I admit such.
1. Install any rom that is in md5 format (preferably with your carrier modem but anything will do) I used a verizon rom. I can't exactly provide a link given my user status though, but I will when I can.
2. If you don't have wifi and downloaded rom under incorrect modem, then download hidroid on the play store and unlock it. It should be simple once getting the app. This will allow you to use mobile data. You'll need it.
3. Download goomanager
4. Press menu button
5. Install open recovery script
Now you should have TWRP installed on your device.
6. Install any custom rom compatible with your device, but make sure it comes with the correct modem as your phone originally had.
7. Flash it through TWRP (make a backup first)
You should be done from there. Now I don't recommend this. There has to be an easier way, so it would be great if anyone could provide that below. But the steps above are the steps I took. Thanks
Sent from my SGH-I317 using xda premium

Easiest is flash att rom thru odin then reboot into recovery factory reset then let phone boot up.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using xda premium

cnote74 said:
Easiest is flash att rom thru odin then reboot into recovery factory reset then let phone boot up.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. ..g
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using XDA Premium HD app

but where o.o
cnote74 said:
Easiest is flash att rom thru odin then reboot into recovery factory reset then let phone boot up.
Sent from my SGH-I317 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Umm guys, i ran into a similar problem. Where would i find the att rom to flash from odin?

How to flash 4.3 or 4.4 roms

I just got this phone and its running liquid smooth 4.2.2. i wanted to flash beanstalk 4.4 but it kept failing the flash. can someone point me in the right direction lol. i have the sgh 1747.

Need more information, carrier specific, model, error message when trying to flash
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk

jimchee said:
Need more information, carrier specific, model, error message when trying to flash
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i have the att version. its the sgh i747 version. after searching i think it won't flash those because i need to update to 4.3. but i don't know how.

pitbullmommy45245 said:
i have the att version. its the sgh i747 version. after searching i think it won't flash those because i need to update to 4.3. but i don't know how.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't do it if you think you might ever want to be able to use Odin as a recovery option. Once you upgrade to 4.3 on AT&T you're stuck if something bad happens to your phone you're going to have a hard time fixing it.
If yours sure you want to do it then Odin your phone back to an early firmware as soon as it boots it will force you to take an update. It may be 4.1.2 or it may be 4.3? Not sure but you just let the phone update through ota. Or alternately there are files with instructions in threads labeled with names similar to 4.3 OTA official.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

Well right now there are some disadvantages, imho, to upgrading to 4.3 stock, once the bootloader is updated you cannot downgrade to any other build at this time, but that is a call for u to make, if you want to ota to 4.3 you have to get on stock 4.1.2 which you do through odin and then ota, not what I would do at this time just to many horror stories for my taste on 4.3 right now
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk

theramsey3 said:
Don't do it if you think you might ever want to be able to use Odin as a recovery option. Once you upgrade to 4.3 on AT&T you're stuck if something bad happens to your phone you're going to have a hard time fixing it.
If yours sure you want to do it then Odin your phone back to an early firmware as soon as it boots it will force you to take an update. It may be 4.1.2 or it may be 4.3? Not sure but you just let the phone update through ota. Or alternately there are files with instructions in threads labeled with names similar to 4.3 OTA official.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jimchee said:
Well right now there are some disadvantages, imho, to upgrading to 4.3 stock, once the bootloader is updated you cannot downgrade to any other build at this time, but that is a call for u to make, if you want to ota to 4.3 you have to get on stock 4.1.2 which you do through odin and then ota, not what I would do at this time just to many horror stories for my taste on 4.3 right now
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so should i not do it? lol. mine is unlocked too. i'm using it on cincinnati bell. will this erase the unlock?

No once a phone is unlocked it cannot be relocked
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 02:02 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:01 PM ----------
I wouldn't do it if it involves updating the bootloader at this time but that is just my opinion and am not a developer just an advanced tinkerer
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk

if i understand your question correctly, you're trying to flash a 4.3/4.4 AOSP-based ROM? but it keeps failing?
i'm sorta having the same problem too, whenever i flash any ROMs based off 4.3/4.4 AOSP, i get constant reboots, about 2-3 an hour.
i am using CWM for recoery, but i don't think i tried BeanStalk 4.4

jimchee said:
No once a phone is unlocked it cannot be relocked
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 02:02 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:01 PM ----------
I wouldn't do it if it involves updating the bootloader at this time but that is just my opinion and am not a developer just an advanced tinkerer
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i mean is it really hard lol? can someone give me a link to the guide.

pitbullmommy45245 said:
so should i not do it? lol. mine is unlocked too. i'm using it on cincinnati bell. will this erase the unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is all up to you. I have 4.3 and am happy with it. It is very stable and has decent battery life. It isn't without issues though. I have problems with it giving me the weak wifi signal message or that my Internet is too slow (10Mbps DSL? Slower than some but certainly no slouch) when it does this it disconnects and I have to manually tell it to reconnect. The other thing is in my battery stats built in the rom not all of the apps are being logged only things like screen on time, cell standby, wifi, bluetooth, basic phone stuff but none of the apps???
Why I wish I hadn't done it? Because I lost the ability to be able to recover my phone with Odin and the ability to do whatever it is I want to with the bootloaders.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

I just want to flash beanstalk 4.4. I depend on wifi. So does WiFi work?
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

pitbullmommy45245 said:
i mean is it really hard lol? can someone give me a link to the guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read the stickys here and in the general section it will have nearly all of the information and tools you need. Then you can get firmware to flash in Odin from http://www.sammobile.com go there register for an account click firmwares in the top bar of the site and search for your phones model number such as mine is SGH-I747 and a Canadian phone or Mexican phone would be SGH-I747M.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app

theramsey3 said:
Read the stickys here and in the general section it will have nearly all of the information and tools you need. Then you can get firmware to flash in Odin from http://www.sammobile.com go there register for an account click firmwares in the top bar of the site and search for your phones model number such as mine is SGH-I747 and a Canadian phone or Mexican phone would be SGH-I747M.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
can i root though after i get on 4.3. i was reading and it says don't do it if you want root.

pitbullmommy45245 said:
can i root though after i get on 4.3. i was reading and it says don't do it if you want root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try these links they might be of some use, I assume you have read the stickys and have a general idea of what you are up against. click below if you're sure you want to do this to your phone.
4.3 ota Rom http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2387423 Follow the instructions exactly and understand once you do this there is no turning back. You can run different roms but you have to have the 4.3 bootloaders you cannot for any reason EVER download the bootloaders
This will get you root, I had to use method #2 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2538991
I take absolutely no responsibility of any bad things that happen if you use the above links. make sure you understand the tasks you are wanting to preform and the risks associated with such, 4.3 has caused MANY HARD BRICKS.

ok i just did this but i think i might of messed up. i did just as the op said and i was at the downgrading part and now my screen is on the samsung screen and just flashing

pitbullmommy45245 said:
ok i just did this but i think i might of messed up. i did just as the op said and i was at the downgrading part and now my screen is on the samsung screen and just flashing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Give it a few minutes to try to boot then pull the battery, boot to recovery and do a factory reset. if that doesn't work then flash the odin file again.
When you do get the 4.3 it will take several minutes to boot it will look like its stuck on the boot screen but be patient it will likely boot eventually.

theramsey3 said:
Give it a few minutes to try to boot then pull the battery, boot to recovery and do a factory reset. if that doesn't work then flash the odin file again.
When you do get the 4.3 it will take several minutes to boot it will look like its stuck on the boot screen but be patient it will likely boot eventually.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
how long does it take? like 10 plus min?

pitbullmommy45245 said:
how long does it take? like 10 plus min?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No it shouldnt take ten minutes but 4.3 takes considerably longer than all the roms I have used in the past.
You are still at the stage of flashing 4.1.1 correct? if it didnt boot just reflash it(uncheck the box for auto reboot so you have to pull the battery out after you flash it) then go to recovery and do a factory reset, then reboot the phone, it should boot this time.
You did check to make 100% sure you downloaded the correct 4.1.1 file for the phones model? right?
Don't mean to make anybody sound silly just trying to figure out exactly whay is going on.

theramsey3 said:
No it shouldnt take ten minutes but 4.3 takes considerably longer than all the roms I have used in the past.
You are still at the stage of flashing 4.1.1 correct? if it didnt boot just reflash it(uncheck the box for auto reboot so you have to pull the battery out after you flash it) then go to recovery and do a factory reset, then reboot the phone, it should boot this time.
You did check to make 100% sure you downloaded the correct 4.1.1 file for the phones model? right?
Don't mean to make anybody sound silly just trying to figure out exactly whay is going on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i got passed it. i guess i wasn't patient enough lol. i'm on 4.3 now. now time to try to root and flash beanstalk lol.

pitbullmommy45245 said:
ok i got passed that. i got to the part where you flash 4.3. it was going through the flash then it got to a part where two errors came up in red (i couldn't see what they were it rebooted right after) and then it rebooted but got stuck on the att ball and wouldn't reboot. then i went into recovery and it was all red and blue and the android had a triangle with a red exclimation mark. i just tried to reflash but it keeps doing the same thing. it gets stuck on the att ball.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you still have custom recovery (Which one do you have) or do you have the stock recovery?
Edit: I see you edited your post after I quoted you to respond, glad you got it going, now just follow the guides as written for root, I had to use method #2, but you should try method 1 first.
Good luck

I guess my Note 2 is bricked?

Well I give up... I have finally done something that I can not fix. I can normally google and find my own answers and I never have to ask anyone but this time is different.
I have the I317 Note 2, Everything was fine, I was running a stock rom earlier this week and the phone started acting funny. So I though screw it, Ill just go back to stock. So i downloaded.KIES_HOME_I317UCALJ2_I317ATTALJ2_215287_REV04_user_low_ship.tar and used Odin to flash the stock firmware. I DID do a full wipe before I went back to stock. It worked fine for 2 days. It kept wanting to download an update. So it did. When it restarted from the update that the phone downloaded it got stuck on the Samsung screen.
I thought no big deal, I will just reflash the stock firmware and start again... FAIL same thing happened. It wont get past the Samsung screen even after leaving it on that screen for a hour. So then I tried to get into recovery... it wont let me.Then I reinstalled the stock rom and waited for boot, then I flashed CWM and tried to get in to recovery that way. No luck.
I feel like I need to do a wipe and start all over but I cant figure out how to do a full wipe without recovery. There has got to be something easy that I am missing but I cant figure it out. I will keep on searching with hope that someone tells me what I am doing wrong or what to do.
THANKS

If its still able to go into download mode and odin recognizes the device your good just be patient and download the correct firmware.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda premium

There are some issues with the OTA update from LJ2 to MH3, which it appears you still have sitting on your phone. You can try booting recovery and clearing cache - that should get rid of the OTA file.
The thread below has some information on how to update from LJ2 up through MH3 and then MK6. It's intended for those who already have the MK6 bootloader - if you don't already have that or want that, you'll want to stop at MH3 and consider your options.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2618447

Do you know did I use the correct firmware? I have had to run Odin a couple of times before but its a no go this time... I can not get into recovery. Even if I run Odin now with TWRP and restart it still wont let me into recovery... Can I use Odin to to a full wipe?

Were you on 4.3 previously? Via OTA?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

yes I did upgrade to 4.3 when it came available then I went to a custom rom. Then full wiped and downloaded what I thought was a stock rom and here I am.
Are you saying I need to download the 4.3 stock firmware and that is my issue. What i downloaded was from September 2013

For a (hopefully) quick solution, see post #2 here, specifically the param/tz file:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2618447
That should get your access to recovery back and allow the mh3 ota to complete.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

Trust in Odin it never fails.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using xda premium

Zen Arcade said:
For a (hopefully) quick solution, see post #2 here, specifically the param/tz file:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2618447
That should get your access to recovery back and allow the mh3 ota to complete.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WOW that worked!! I just got my phone into Recovery for the first time in over 24hrs now! I did a full wipe and now I am going to try and reinstall the factory rom that I have. Unless you tell me something different...
Thank you very much, I dont understand it but so happy to have a different screen!

Which factory rom? Where are you ultimately looking to get to?

100% back up and running! Thank you again

Zen Arcade said:
Which factory rom? Where are you ultimately looking to get to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One that would work.... LOL I really dont have a preference other then I did not care for 4.3 I ended up with 4.1.1 and I couldn't be more happy. If they ever get 4.4 I would try that.
Its funny 4yrs ago I had the Sprint Evo. I changed roms more often then I changed shirts it seamed. I never had the issues or anything like what I ran into yesterday. I was so careless just trying every rom that was released. Because of that I will always remember the EVO as my favorite phone.

Those were simpler times...
I assume you want root and know how to get it.
Since you have the mk6 bootloader you will need to avoid odin flashing any packages that contain bootloaders in the future. See my mk6 thread for details.
If you want to get to 4.1.2 there are rooted cwm packages for ma4, mc3, and mh3 available. Wherever you end up, I recommend freezing the AT&T Software Update apk from within Titanium Backup or equivalent to ensure that you don't get a forced ota update at some point in the future.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I317 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

4.3 and Sim Unlock

Been reading the forums and realize it is not possible to go from 4.3 back to 4.1.1 to unlock via service menu.
My question is this, if I root 4.3 can the phone be Sim unlocked that way? I'm asking on behalf of some coworkers.
Thanks for reading.
Sent from my GT-I9505G using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

50+ views? Some one has to know something!!
Sent from my GT-I9505G using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

There is no way to unlock on 4.3 unless you get an unlock code.

Thanks guys.
Sent from my GT-I9505G using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

In not trying to say anything but i have downgraded on the AT&T S3 from 4.3 to 4.1.1/4.1.2/4.2.1 Os wise. I did it through Odin but to not use any bootloaders. I learned the first time and bricked but gladly im the end had an unlocked S³
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk

xSharpi said:
In not trying to say anything but i have downgraded on the AT&T S3 from 4.3 to 4.1.1/4.1.2/4.2.1 Os wise. I did it through Odin but to not use any bootloaders. I learned the first time and bricked but gladly im the end had an unlocked S³
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you kindly share the detailed steps you took to do this for everyone's learning and benefit. Thanks

Larry2999 said:
Could you kindly share the detailed steps you took to do this for everyone's learning and benefit. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I haven't been on a S3 for a little while but I do remember. In fact if you want to downgrade the AT&T S3 (SGH-I717) from 4.3 to lower firmwares such as 4.1.1 for free unlocking download this: http://terafile.co/407413755110/I747UCDLK3_I747ATTDLK3_I747UCDLK3_HOME.zip which will be the stock 4.1.1 ROM. I REPEAT DO NOT FLASH ANY BOOTLOADERS AS IT WILL RESULT IN A HARDBRICK!!! THE ZIP ONLY CONTAINS THE OS SO YOU'RE GOOD. You'll need Odin, I prefer 3.07 because the new 3.09 changes the button names. You can download Odin from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1168421&d=1341114315
Alright so on to the downgrading. (this will wipe everything so back up before hand)
"I'm not held responsible for any damage to your device. You have been WARNED"
1. Turn off the device and go into download mode by holding the power button and volume up, you should be greeted with some description press volume up to continue
2. Plug your device into your computer and open Odin.
3. Click PDA and search for the ROM you dowloaded. (Make sure you extract the ROM out of its zip form to get the .tar)
4. One selected in PDA press start and sit back and enjoy your free unlock this can be used for any stock OS just remember to not flash any bootloaders
Side Note: It takes a while to flash and also reboot. If the phone doesn't reboot do a factory reset through the recovery and it should boot. I believe this will also work for other variants of the S3 as long as you have the right stock image
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk

xSharpi said:
So I haven't been on a S3 for a little while but I do remember. In fact if you want to downgrade the AT&T S3 (SGH-I717) from 4.3 to lower firmwares such as 4.1.1 for free unlocking download this: http://terafile.co/407413755110/I747UCDLK3_I747ATTDLK3_I747UCDLK3_HOME.zip which will be the stock 4.1.1 ROM. I REPEAT DO NOT FLASH ANY BOOTLOADERS AS IT WILL RESULT IN A HARDBRICK!!! THE ZIP ONLY CONTAINS THE OS SO YOU'RE GOOD. You'll need Odin, I prefer 3.07 because the new 3.09 changes the button names. You can download Odin from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1168421&d=1341114315
Alright so on to the downgrading. (this will wipe everything so back up before hand)
"I'm not held responsible for any damage to your device. You have been WARNED"
1. Turn off the device and go into download mode by holding the power button and volume up, you should be greeted with some description press volume up to continue
2. Plug your device into your computer and open Odin.
3. Click PDA and search for the ROM you dowloaded. (Make sure you extract the ROM out of its zip form to get the .tar)
4. One selected in PDA press start and sit back and enjoy your free unlock this can be used for any stock OS just remember to not flash any bootloaders
Side Note: It takes a while to flash and also reboot. If the phone doesn't reboot do a factory reset through the recovery and it should boot. I believe this will also work for other variants of the S3 as long as you have the right stock image
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you remove the bootloader from the tar file by deleting it from the file to be flashed via Odin?

Good Question
That is a Good question Audit. I second that as I am also interested in the answer to that.

Don't waste your time with this if you are looking to sim unlock. You can downgrade the software version from 4.3 to 4.1 but you still will not have the ability to unlock on the new boot loader, as stated above downgrading the boot loader will hard brick your device. I've spent hours trying to find a way and it's not possible right now, If you are on the latest boot loader you will not be able to unlock regardless of software version.

[Help] Unrooting Samsung Galaxy S3 urgent!

About a month ago I rooted my Galaxy S3 and tried to install CM11. Long story short it did not all work out well because Knox security would not let me install any root apps. And the rumor is that the Galaxy S3 is about to receive the new KitKat update and I would like to unroot the phone before the update arrives so that I can have a chance to install it. I have tried on my own by following some instructions from some websites but so far nothing seems to work. I downloaded the correct firmware from SamMobile and downloaded Odin. When I plug the phone in and start the Odin process everything seems to be going well until a big red "FAIL!" pops up. I'm hoping I don't damage my phone in the process, but so far it hasnt been bricked yet. Please, any help is appreciated.

what model of S3 do you have? There is many.

GS3User15 said:
About a month ago I rooted my Galaxy S3 and tried to install CM11. Long story short it did not all work out well because Knox security would not let me install any root apps. And the rumor is that the Galaxy S3 is about to receive the new KitKat update and I would like to unroot the phone before the update arrives so that I can have a chance to install it. I have tried on my own by following some instructions from some websites but so far nothing seems to work. I downloaded the correct firmware from SamMobile and downloaded Odin. When I plug the phone in and start the Odin process everything seems to be going well until a big red "FAIL!" pops up. I'm hoping I don't damage my phone in the process, but so far it hasnt been bricked yet. Please, any help is appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check out an app called universal unroot it worked for me........ Not sure if it works for Samsung devices
Here is the link
https://play.google.com/store/apps/...&utm_medium=organic&utm_term=universal+unroot
Here is some information :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2231096
Press the thanks button if I helped!!!!!!
I am sure it will work
Sent from my MIND using my BODY....(JUST KIDDING)

Download the stock firmware, flash it with Odin, reboot to stock recovery and factory reset
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk

GS3User15 said:
About a month ago I rooted my Galaxy S3 and tried to install CM11. Long story short it did not all work out well because Knox security would not let me install any root apps. And the rumor is that the Galaxy S3 is about to receive the new KitKat update and I would like to unroot the phone before the update arrives so that I can have a chance to install it. I have tried on my own by following some instructions from some websites but so far nothing seems to work. I downloaded the correct firmware from SamMobile and downloaded Odin. When I plug the phone in and start the Odin process everything seems to be going well until a big red "FAIL!" pops up. I'm hoping I don't damage my phone in the process, but so far it hasnt been bricked yet. Please, any help is appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess u can update your device when the update comes u don't need to unroot.... The update will automatically unroot your phone....
If I am mistaken pls correct me thanks.....
Sent from my MIND using my BODY....(JUST KIDDING)

The best bet is to get that firmware to flash. You can try using an unroot option if all else fails (in the supersu app, just choose Full Unroot).
But if you want to try to get the firmware flashed, we need more info about what's happening. In particular, what model device, your current firmware version, the version you are trying to flash, where you got it from, and most importantly, what does Odin say when it fails? (Copy the text in your post)

DocHoliday77 said:
The best bet is to get that firmware to flash. You can try using an unroot option if all else fails (in the supersu app, just choose Full Unroot).
But if you want to try to get the firmware flashed, we need more info about what's happening. In particular, what model device, your current firmware version, the version you are trying to flash, where you got it from, and most importantly, what does Odin say when it fails? (Copy the text in your post)
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Okay, I'll get the text off Odin as soon as my phone charges to 80% or so. Should be about an hour or so.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app

Okay so now for some reason Odin won't add the phone when its plugged in and in download mode. Maybe its because my battery charge wasn't at 80% or higher? Or could it be because I deleted the SuperSU file? And was it a bad idea to delet the file? Kinda frustrated cause I have no idea what's going on and why it won't unroot, I just want my phone back to normal...
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app

Did you open Odin after you plugged it in?
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk

serio22 said:
Did you open Odin after you plugged it in?
Sent from my SGH-M919 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Of course I did. I'm going to try again later today. Hopefully it works.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app

GS3User15 said:
Okay so now for some reason Odin won't add the phone when its plugged in and in download mode. Maybe its because my battery charge wasn't at 80% or higher? Or could it be because I deleted the SuperSU file? And was it a bad idea to delet the file? Kinda frustrated cause I have no idea what's going on and why it won't unroot, I just want my phone back to normal...
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Click to collapse
Ive used odin with less than 20% battery...
Try installing supersu from the play store, then choose full unroot from the app.

DocHoliday77 said:
Ive used odin with less than 20% battery...
Try installing supersu from the play store, then choose full unroot from the app.
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Click to collapse
I would but Samsung Knox security won't grant it permission. And I can't delete the stupid app.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app

GS3User15 said:
I would but Samsung Knox security won't grant it permission. And I can't delete the stupid app.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Click to collapse
Is your computer detecting your phone when you plug it in while in download mode? unplug it and plug it back in a few times to see if your computer detects/installs correctly giving a couple minutes before unplugging each time.
Once odin does detect your phone, be sure you have the correct firmware for your phone. If you have the T999, be sure to download the firmware for the T999, if you have the T999L download the firmware for that one... Check DocHoliday77's Firmware/OTA's post in the Android Development section for directions on flashing back to stock.
If you are adamant about the whole Knox thing, you can just flash the attached zip using a custom recovery to remove knox

daggorlad said:
Is your computer detecting your phone when you plug it in while in download mode? unplug it and plug it back in a few times to see if your computer detects/installs correctly giving a couple minutes before unplugging each time.
Once odin does detect your phone, be sure you have the correct firmware for your phone. If you have the T999, be sure to download the firmware for the T999, if you have the T999L download the firmware for that one... Check DocHoliday77's Firmware/OTA's post in the Android Development section for directions on flashing back to stock.
If you are adamant about the whole Knox thing, you can just flash the attached zip using a custom recovery to remove knox
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was just recently that Odin refused to work. Before that it was working fine but if you read my first post there were still obstacles. It all seems to be going well until Odin just gives a big read "FAIL!" at the top. And around last year when I unrooted the same phone, I always got "md5 error" but that isn't the case right now. And I do have the right firmware downloaded from SamWire.com. Hoping you can help.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app

If I missed it I apologize, but you still haven't answered several of the questions we've asked you. I'm only assuming you have the T999 model since it sounds like you're stock and its in your dad app Sig.... but what firmware are you on now? What build are you trying to flash? Can you copy the text output from odin after it fails? You say you think knox is blocking odin from running.....if this is the case its actually not knox (common mistake), but its not letting you downgrade due to the revision check, which is why I want to know your current firmware and the build you're trying to flash.
Without this information, the only things I can think to tell you are to try several usb cables (they do go bad, and many are only for charging), try each cable in every usb port on the computer (weird but its worked many times), or try this....
Check my Towelroot root thread in general section. Reroot the device with this method and after installing SuperSU, let it update the binary and disable Knox. Now try flashing in odin. If it doesn't work, try the full unroot option I mentioned earlier.

GS3User15 said:
It was just recently that Odin refused to work. Before that it was working fine but if you read my first post there were still obstacles. It all seems to be going well until Odin just gives a big read "FAIL!" at the top. And around last year when I unrooted the same phone, I always got "md5 error" but that isn't the case right now. And I do have the right firmware downloaded from SamWire.com. Hoping you can help.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Sometimes if Kies is running then also it fails so make sure Kies is not running in services or you can uninstall it
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk

DocHoliday77 said:
If I missed it I apologize, but you still haven't answered several of the questions we've asked you. I'm only assuming you have the T999 model since it sounds like you're stock and its in your dad app Sig.... but what firmware are you on now? What build are you trying to flash? Can you copy the text output from odin after it fails? You say you think knox is blocking odin from running.....if this is the case its actually not knox (common mistake), but its not letting you downgrade due to the revision check, which is why I want to know your current firmware and the build you're trying to flash.
Without this information, the only things I can think to tell you are to try several usb cables (they do go bad, and many are only for charging), try each cable in every usb port on the computer (weird but its worked many times), or try this....
Check my Towelroot root thread in general section. Reroot the device with this method and after installing SuperSU, let it update the binary and disable Knox. Now try flashing in odin. If it doesn't work, try the full unroot option I mentioned earlier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sort for neglecting to answer your questions. Just been stressed about this. But to answer some of your questions; Yes this is the Samsung SGH-T999 model running 4.3. And yes I am trying, and failing, to Unroot my phone by flashing a stock firmware from which I downloaded from SamWire.com. I'm trying to flash 4.1.1 or 4.0.1 (can't remember). And from there on I can upgrade to the newest, 4.3 jellybean or 4.4 KitKat if it is available. As for the Knox situation, I didn't say that it was blocking Odin. I just said that Knox was preventing any root apps to function. Every time I try to access the SuperSu app Knox prevents like "This app has tried to gain access to your phone. We have prevented it.". And so I was wondering if that was why I was having problems? Is this info good now? If you need more I can try and answer.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app

GS3User15 said:
Sort for neglecting to answer your questions. Just been stressed about this. But to answer some of your questions; Yes this is the Samsung SGH-T999 model running 4.3. And yes I am trying, and failing, to Unroot my phone by flashing a stock firmware from which I downloaded from SamWire.com. I'm trying to flash 4.1.1 or 4.0.1 (can't remember). And from there on I can upgrade to the newest, 4.3 jellybean or 4.4 KitKat if it is available. As for the Knox situation, I didn't say that it was blocking Odin. I just said that Knox was preventing any root apps to function. Every time I try to access the SuperSu app Knox prevents like "This app has tried to gain access to your phone. We have prevented it.". And so I was wondering if that was why I was having problems? Is this info good now? If you need more I can try and answer.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Click to collapse
That is your problem, you cannot downgrade firmware once you have upgraded to 4.3. That still doesn't explain the Odin problem. That is most likely a cable issue as DocHoliday77 stated or a driver issue on your PC. check your device manager when you plug it in to see if your computer even detects it. If it gives the yellow triangle in your device manager on your PC, try uninstalling, then unplug your phone and plug it back in.

GS3User15 said:
Sort for neglecting to answer your questions. Just been stressed about this. But to answer some of your questions; Yes this is the Samsung SGH-T999 model running 4.3. And yes I am trying, and failing, to Unroot my phone by flashing a stock firmware from which I downloaded from SamWire.com. I'm trying to flash 4.1.1 or 4.0.1 (can't remember). And from there on I can upgrade to the newest, 4.3 jellybean or 4.4 KitKat if it is available. As for the Knox situation, I didn't say that it was blocking Odin. I just said that Knox was preventing any root apps to function. Every time I try to access the SuperSu app Knox prevents like "This app has tried to gain access to your phone. We have prevented it.". And so I was wondering if that was why I was having problems? Is this info good now? If you need more I can try and answer.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app
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Click to collapse
Thanks! This definitely helps! If you have previously updated to 4.3 firmware you cannot downgrade anymore. (Flashing older roms is ok, but not the full firmware). If you find a way to force the flash, it'll brick your phone.
So if your current firmware is MJC, you can only flash MJC or NC2 builds. If your current is NC2, then you can only flash NC2.
If you want to check for sure, install terminal emulator and enter this:
getprop to.bootloader
This will tell you your current firmware build.
If this still doesn't flash, let us know. But you could still try my other suggestions for rerooting and trying the full unroot again.
Sorry I misunderstood what you said about knox. Many people call the warranty bit part of a knox bootloader. This isn't entirely inaccurate, but can lead to some confusion, so I wasn't sure if that's what you were talking about.

DocHoliday77 said:
Thanks! This definitely helps! If you have previously updated to 4.3 firmware you cannot downgrade anymore. (Flashing older roms is ok, but not the full firmware). If you find a way to force the flash, it'll brick your phone.
So if your current firmware is MJC, you can only flash MJC or NC2 builds. If your current is NC2, then you can only flash NC2.
If you want to check for sure, install terminal emulator and enter this:
getprop to.bootloader
This will tell you your current firmware build.
If this still doesn't flash, let us know. But you could still try my other suggestions for rerooting and trying the full unroot again.
Sorry I misunderstood what you said about knox. Many people call the warranty bit part of a knox bootloader. This isn't entirely inaccurate, but can lead to some confusion, so I wasn't sure if that's what you were talking about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay. I'll download the 4.3 firmware. This is weird cause last time I unrooted, I did so while flashing a ln older version. Or maybe I was mistaken. I'll see what I can do with the new firmware and tell you guys how it turns out. Wish me luck!
Sent from my SGH-T999 using XDA Free mobile app