Obtaining Root/unlocked BootloaderU - Google Pixel XL Questions & Answers

So kinda glancing around and trying to dig, it seems if you order the phone from Google Store, you can unlock bootloader and root on any OS. If obtained from Verizon, you cannot root if it already has 7.1.1? Is this statement correct? So it seems to best order it from Google Store it seems?

bigmike35 said:
So kinda glancing around and trying to dig, it seems if you order the phone from Google Store, you can unlock bootloader and root on any OS. If obtained from Verizon, you cannot root if it already has 7.1.1? Is this statement correct? So it seems to best order it from Google Store it seems?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have it exactly right.

I just came across the same consensus. If it helps, I have the Pixel XL 128 with Verizon, version 7.1.1 and my build is NOF26V.

The verizon pixel xl's are still shipping with NDE63P, which is 7.1 and still not patched against depixel8. So for the time being you can get one from either.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

wyrdtrtle said:
The verizon pixel xl's are still shipping with NDE63P, which is 7.1 and still not patched against depixel8. So for the time being you can get one from either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not from what I've seen. People all over are saying the Verizon units are now shipping with 7.1.1. Get it from Google if you want to be able to unlock.

I wont argue that, i received mine in early feb, the 5th i think, so it may have changed. So to be safe google is the right choice, i just couldnt pass up the chance to get it for half price, so i took a chance and it paid off. Literally.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Im very disappoint and upset, I got Pixel XL came with 7.1.1 (NOF26V) VZW So, I have been research on the website and mostly They said 7.1 to 7.1.1 "early" It's seem I can't get unlock bootloader anymore, but maybe in the future could be exploit patch?

The answer is maybe, but since the guys that did it before i dont believe are even working on another, i wouldnt get your hopes up.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Verizon is definitely still shipping them with only 7.1. I just got mine 4 days ago and could see it was wanting to update. I didn't take it because I was trying to unlock bootloader with depixel8. Depixel8 wasn't working i can't remember the error but it was hanging on the first step, trying to push it to /data/local/tmp. I tried rebooting to start over and when it came back up it had 7.1.1 on it and now I can no longer try unlocking or rooting. So you can still get it from Verizon, just don't let it reboot before you get it unlocked
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

I wouldn't even take the risk at this point. Spend a lil more out of pocket and by it directly from Google if you're looking to unlock. Some vzw models are shipping with 7.1.1 now. Would kinda suck to open the box and not be able to unlock. Best bet for anyone is to buy from Google if you plan on unlocking.

Are you sure you cannot root even using the TWRP method?
I saw a post regarding TWRP then flashing SU
I just ordered mine today, I will let you know if I get it without the update
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http://www.theandroidsoul.com/root-pixel-xl-magisk/
This is the TWRP method I was referencing when you are on 7.1.1
---------- Post added at 03:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:34 PM ----------
msmall82 said:
Are you sure you cannot root even using the TWRP method?
I saw a post regarding TWRP then flashing SU
I just ordered mine today, I will let you know if I get it without the update
---------- Post added at 03:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:31 PM ----------
http://www.theandroidsoul.com/root-pixel-xl-magisk/
This is the TWRP method I was referencing when you are on 7.1.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually looks like you have to use depixel8 to unlock the bootloader in order to flash SU with TWRP, I am hoping I get one that has the older version on it and isn't on 7.1.1
I don't feel like kicking out 860 when I can just have it billed by 30 a month to my verizon account.

msmall82 said:
Are you sure you cannot root even using the TWRP method?
I saw a post regarding TWRP then flashing SU
I just ordered mine today, I will let you know if I get it without the update
---------- Post added at 03:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:31 PM ----------
http://www.theandroidsoul.com/root-pixel-xl-magisk/
This is the TWRP method I was referencing when you are on 7.1.1
---------- Post added at 03:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:34 PM ----------
Actually looks like you have to use depixel8 to unlock the bootloader in order to flash SU with TWRP, I am hoping I get one that has the older version on it and isn't on 7.1.1
I don't feel like kicking out 860 when I can just have it billed by 30 a month to my verizon account.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do not follow anything in that link, it is very out of date. And correct, you can't flash or boot TWRP until the bootloader is unlocked. And you cant root it until you get twrp running
If your Verizon phone comes with 7.1.1 or you update it to 7.1.1 before you unlock it you are done. Up to you if the gamble is worth it, just making sure you know what is what.

Well I am going to find out tomorrow when I get my pixel, is there an easy way to make sure it doesn't run the OTA update when opening it from the box? If I keep Wifi off and don't put in my SIM will that guarantee it or can you even get to the point to check the version without a SIM loaded? I am keeping my Galaxy Note ...does the Pixel come with the SIM loaded already and require activation?
I want to make sure it doesn't take the OTA update if I am lucky enough to get one without it. I use the Wifi tethering often when I am travelling as well as other root apps like Ti-Backup, Root Explorer, Ect...

msmall82 said:
Well I am going to find out tomorrow when I get my pixel, is there an easy way to make sure it doesn't run the OTA update when opening it from the box? If I keep Wifi off and don't put in my SIM will that guarantee it or can you even get to the point to check the version without a SIM loaded? I am keeping my Galaxy Note ...does the Pixel come with the SIM loaded already and require activation?
I want to make sure it doesn't take the OTA update if I am lucky enough to get one without it. I use the Wifi tethering often when I am travelling as well as other root apps like Ti-Backup, Root Explorer, Ect...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't install the SIM, skip setup, and no wifi. You may have to connect WiFi for a second or two before the slider in dev options will work.

TonikJDK said:
Don't install the SIM, skip setup, and no wifi. You may have to connect WiFi for a second or two before the slider in dev options will work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best bet would be to use the Android toolkit in the Dev area and load depixel8? I've rooted 3 phones before but this one is quite different. I've used ADB, ect...just trying to find the "right" way to do it, can't seem to find an exact proper way other than this :
https://www.xda-developers.com/root-is-now-available-for-the-google-pixel-and-pixel-xl/
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TonikJDK said:
Don't install the SIM, skip setup, and no wifi. You may have to connect WiFi for a second or two before the slider in dev options will work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I obv have to get into the phone and check the version of the phone and enable Dev options and USB debugging before I can get into the phone using ADB...you're saying just skip the setup, keep wifi turned off and then *pray* it is 7.1 and then go ahead and install depixel8 and unlock...?
---------- Post added at 06:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:06 PM ----------
msmall82 said:
Best bet would be to use the Android toolkit in the Dev area and load depixel8? I've rooted 3 phones before but this one is quite different. I've used ADB, ect...just trying to find the "right" way to do it, can't seem to find an exact proper way other than this :
https://www.xda-developers.com/root-is-now-available-for-the-google-pixel-and-pixel-xl/
---------- Post added at 06:06 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:01 PM ----------
Well I obv have to get into the phone and check the version of the phone and enable Dev options and USB debugging before I can get into the phone using ADB...you're saying just skip the setup, keep wifi turned off and then *pray* it is 7.1 and then go ahead and install depixel8 and unlock...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is my plan, skip everything, get into the phone, hope to god it's 7.1, enable USB Debugging and Dev options from Settings...then use depixel8 to unlock the boot loader, then I am lost. Checked around 40 threads on here and have found 10 different ways to root...this is the XDA root :
How to Install SuperSU on your Pixel
As Chainfire mentions in his Google+ post, you will need to first download the boot-to-root images for the Pixel or Pixel XL off of his website. You can click here to download the zip for the Google Pixel, or click here to download the zip for the Google Pixel XL. After downloading the zip, you need to fastboot boot the boot-to-root image, DO NOT fastboot flash the image! In other words, the only command you’ll need for the two devices is the following:
fastboot boot boot-to-root.img
Wait a few minutes, and after a few reboots you’ll be booted up with full root access. Yay!

msmall82 said:
......then I am lost. Checked around 40 threads on here and have found 10 different ways to root...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are a lot of ways because this phone was so different, so a lot of what you see is the testing and changes that can from that.
So, after it is unlocked update it to 7.1.1 and then:
Download 2.7.9 SR3 SuperUser and copy it to your phone.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/2014-09-02-supersu-v2-05-t2868133
Download TWRP RC3 and copy it to your fastboot folder.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/development/twrp-alpha1-pixel-devices-t3500312
Using other versions than above will bootloop you. Reboot the phone into bootloader mode. Power and Vol down.
fastboot BOOT twrpFilename.img Where twrpfilename.img is the name of the TWRP file you just downloaded. Note is says boot in the command, not flash.
That will boot the phone into TWRP. Select Install and install the SU zip you copied to the phone above. And reboot the phone, done.
---------- Post added at 01:06 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:05 AM ----------
And here is the link to the proper fastboot version.
https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools.html

The box that the phone comes in has the software version on it. So you'll know before even powering it on. I got my regular pixel last week and it had 7.1.

Best is to disable automatic OTA upon opening the box when you find that you have 7.1. So there is a better chance of getting the exploit to work even after reboots.

Pull the sim before powering it up
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

wyrdtrtle said:
Pull the sim before powering it up
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly, power on with no sim and skip any set up including wifi. No reason to do any set up as the bootloader unlock with wipe the device. Enable ADB and get to unlocking straight away. No sim and no wifi means there is zero way it can update itself on you.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

Related

[UK] Android Pay UK - Not available

Just tried to install Android pay and apparently the device is not supported!
It fits all the criteria for being supported and I was able to install it to a sony tablet so it definitely is available in the UK. I'm just wondering if me being on omni 6.0.1 is causing issues.
Any one have any luck installing it?
Nope. I'm in the same boat. Scunnered as I thought uninstalling root would be all I needed. Anyone know if it's working with Project Spectrum ROM, as I might reinstall that. But I'm not going to the bother unless I know there is a payoff at the end of it.
Tried flashing Project Spectrum via TWRP. It allowed installing the Android Pay app, which is encouraging suggesting the ROM itself is accepted as a legit OS. Got an error message after trying to press the "+" to add a card, something like "Unable to verify system is running Android..." forgot to screenshot it.
Guessing it is also looking for an unlocked bootloader/non-OEM recovery. I might try reinstalling ColorOS recovery and then flashing Project Spectrum, but I'm not sure I want to give up Marshmallow/ad blocking just for Android Pay.
Richeyman said:
Nope. I'm in the same boat. Scunnered as I thought uninstalling root would be all I needed. Anyone know if it's working with Project Spectrum ROM, as I might reinstall that. But I'm not going to the bother unless I know there is a payoff at the end of it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tried it, you can install android pay, but adding a card will not work, flash android spectrum 5.1.1 with stock recovery
---------- Post added at 12:44 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:42 AM ----------
Richeyman said:
Nope. I'm in the same boat. Scunnered as I thought uninstalling root would be all I needed. Anyone know if it's working with Project Spectrum ROM, as I might reinstall that. But I'm not going to the bother unless I know there is a payoff at the end of it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and what I noticed the ROM is not rooted SPECTRUM 5.1.1 but when you check the kernel its not stock but a rooted one? i am not sure if that matters.
---------- Post added at 12:47 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:44 AM ----------
Richeyman said:
Tried flashing Project Spectrum via TWRP. It allowed installing the Android Pay app, which is encouraging suggesting the ROM itself is accepted as a legit OS. Got an error message after trying to press the "+" to add a card, something like "Unable to verify system is running Android..." forgot to screenshot it.
Guessing it is also looking for an unlocked bootloader/non-OEM recovery. I might try reinstalling ColorOS recovery and then flashing Project Spectrum, but I'm not sure I want to give up Marshmallow/ad blocking just for Android Pay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it is not unlocked bootloader and non oem recovery, it somewhere inside the system, i think it might do with the built in kernel on the PROJECT SPECTRUM. I installed the COS lite on twrp recovery with unlocked bootloader, I can used the Android Pay easily and used it too at the gas station.:good:
imna357 said:
tried it, you can install android pay, but adding a card will not work, flash android spectrum 5.1.1 with stock recovery
---------- Post added at 12:44 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:42 AM ----------
and what I noticed the ROM is not rooted SPECTRUM 5.1.1 but when you check the kernel its not stock but a rooted one? i am not sure if that matters.
---------- Post added at 12:47 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:44 AM ----------
it is not unlocked bootloader and non oem recovery, it somewhere inside the system, i think it might do with the built in kernel on the PROJECT SPECTRUM. I installed the COS lite on twrp recovery with unlocked bootloader, I can used the Android Pay easily and used it too at the gas station.:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool. Will give it a flash as I can always restore my Omni backup if I don't like it.
TWRP/COS Lite a no-go for me here
I'll just wait for a Oneplus 3.
I am running COS V2.0.8i, and my phone is unrooted.
Android Pay installs OK on my Find 7, but I can't add any bank cards as it says "Android Pay can't be used. Google is unable to verify that your device or the software running on it is Android compatible".
If I run SafetyNet Helper, it says that the CTS Profile Match is false, which is probably why Android Pay won't run on my Find 7?
So is it true that even if I install Spectrum, Android Pay still won't work?

Kyocera Hydro Reach C6743

I have a Reach through Boost. Nice phone except for storage issues. Currently running 5.1.1. Unlike other Kyoceras it has a developer's option to allow unlocking of bootloader. Does anyone know how to root and if there is a Android 6 rom that can be used with the Reach.
You have to go into developer mode and check OEM Unlock. KingRoot did the trick for me after that.
Is that all? Cuz it didn't change a dang thing for me, bro.
Sent from my C6743 using XDA Free mobile app
aces5150 said:
You have to go into developer mode and check OEM Unlock. KingRoot did the trick for me after that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I check OEM unlock and authorized debugging and still nothing seems to be working for me. did you do anything else for your C6743
root
Kilparis87 said:
I check OEM unlock and authorized debugging and still nothing seems to be working for me. did you do anything else for your C6743
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
swicth homes bc found security in it it will lock till reset unless other wise
What do u mean by switch homes?
Yeah I can't get this phone rooted. I've taken days researching. Nothing.
I enabled OEM unlocking, installed Kingroot 5.2.1, and was able to achieve root on first try.
---------- Post added at 06:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:23 PM ----------
Oops, spoke too soon, says in Kingroot, this model restricts ROOT authorization, even though it says it gained root successfully... so wtf then how did you get root if its restricted?? Tha Fuuu..
Took me like 6 times, restarting my phone after each time. Kingsroot 5.2.1
360root
activate phone
download system update
360root
root
phone reboots
root again
etc
just temp root
wait a few days
??
---------- Post added at 03:04 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:59 AM ----------
Ggggg
successful root
I have managed to give root access to my Kyocera Hydro Reach with PermRoot in its latest version
wow
Arguzhan said:
I have managed to give root access to my Kyocera Hydro Reach with PermRoot in its latest version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
mine was, but the company keeps blocking it and lucky patcher, i still use the phone for wi-fi but has no connection with any carriers, if you find a recovery or rom id like to have it, plus id like to connect it to my 32bit tablot if you have links to software, its not compatiable with my windows 8.1
Root Kyocera c6743
Kingroot roots device but root checker finds no root privileges...several subsequent attempts using same app actually began requesting superuser access, but eventually produced no joy all scenarios
---------- Post added at 11:13 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:57 AM ----------
As I stated kingroot will do the job but it seems to be ONLY a temp root...grrrrr. will check adb/fastboot for manual solution
that's a nice phone, its not write/ can't be rooted, damages the core, I had (0)
---------- Post added at 03:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:31 PM ----------
lexcin said:
that's a nice phone, its not write/ can't be rooted, damages the core, I had (0)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
does anyone know how to use kitchen, I don't have a good p.c right-off hand, I need a custom recovery...
thanks
I was thinking of something so I'll just quickly say it.
1. Kingroot Temp Root
2. CWM app?
3. Magisk Root
I don't know if this will work.
Edit: Yeah no doesn't work
I think you need to flash the phone with a pre-rooted stock rom
get msl code, enable usb
use kyocera flashing tool exe
stick majisk in the boot folder and flash ?
---------- Post added at 11:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:46 PM ----------
the new kyocera hydro reach are patched and won't root had a factory boost a few months ago, and it was patched won't root at all
Research
So I'll try researching a way to root this device so I'll back if I find anything
had one a few Christmas ago, got all excited, the phone and the contract, the 3g went out a month or so later... and that was about it for me, these days I'm just using a cheap phone, with insurance or warranty, still takes a few weeks to replace... I'm trying the Blu mtk veiw 1 right now 25 bucks

Messed up the process on VZW Note 4.

I was given a VZW note 4, and to my surprise, it was on 5.1.1. and already unlocked, as well as dev mode and perm root.
I've flashed dozens of phones just fine, more or less... Somehow, I really messed this one up. I don't have an SDcard reader on my PC... and now my SD card is borked.
The first thing I did was Odin BPA1>CPD1 Full. That went OK, and changed my baseband to CPD1...
Then, I proceeded to temp root with King0root and Flash TWRP. Both went fine. Then I proceeded to unlock the BL again...
My 'Dev' status is gone, wi-fi gone, SD card gone, Build Number is BPA1, Baseband is CPJ2, and still on 5.1.1! TWRP will NOT flash again!
I'm kind of lost on where to start to try it all from scratch again. N910V
Any hard shoves in the right direction would be well appreciated!
https://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4/help/sm-n910-cf-auto-root-t2897428
that hybrid firmware is only good for unlocking the BL the wifi will not work because its missing modems and the A boot bootloader. it appears the no A boot files will not allow the wifi to function. what do you mean the sd card is borked ( no longer readable ) sounds to me you need to start over and the sd card needs to be formatted before you reinstall it into your phone or itll act crazy. best bet is to flash the paul pizz 6.0 rom it gives you root and supersu and xposed your basically romming your 5.1.1 and it works great and you can do the other 6.0 or 7.0 roms off this platform. nevermind the wifi don't work on that rom either.
Well, I got everything sorted out quite nicely. I'm on CPJ2 stock 6.0.1. across the board.
Just one thing....
I can't flash TWRP back in, and my dev tag still isn't back... I'm sure if I could properly root I can use one of those excellent guides to get dev status back,
but it's kind of VERY hard, when I can't get TWRP flashed!
My goal is to end up on CM14 or Emo-OS
happy2472 said:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/note-4/help/sm-n910-cf-auto-root-t2897428
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
too bad that doesn't support my N910V
EDIT: Nevermind! found it on the website! THANKS!
Well, my phone appears to be completely on CPJ2 now. Got my SDcard working again too. Just STILL can't get TWRP installed.
eMMC gives me the correct CID. Kingoroot no longer gets me any kind of temp root, so ADB steps aren't happening.
Wodensman said:
Well, my phone appears to be completely on CPJ2 now. Got my SDcard working again too. Just STILL can't get TWRP installed.
eMMC gives me the correct CID. Kingoroot no longer gets me any kind of temp root, so ADB steps aren't happening.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're currently on CPJ2, but you need to be on BPA1 before you can start the rooting process and flash TWRP.
---------- Post added at 12:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:52 PM ----------
Wodensman said:
Well, my phone appears to be completely on CPJ2 now. Got my SDcard working again too. Just STILL can't get TWRP installed.
eMMC gives me the correct CID. Kingoroot no longer gets me any kind of temp root, so ADB steps aren't happening.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're currently on CPJ2, but you need to be on 5.1.1 BPA1 before you can start the rooting process and flash TWRP.
quinciebee said:
You're currently on CPJ2, but you need to be on BPA1 before you can start the rooting process and flash TWRP.
---------- Post added at 12:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:52 PM ----------
You're currently on CPJ2, but you need to be on 5.1.1 BPA1 before you can start the rooting process and flash TWRP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the heads up! What is killing me, is that is where I started.
Sent from my SM-N910V using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Wodensman said:
Thank you for the heads up! What is killing me, is that is where I started.
Sent from my SM-N910V using XDA-Developers Legacy app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm aware, I just thought you knew, try using this guide and video, it's very easy to follow.

new to nexus. any easy bootloader/root method?

Hey Nexus family I'm new here. I've tried to follow the directions in dev section but can't seem to get this thing cracked open. Command shell noon. So is there a simpler version to achieve bootloader and root? Thanks
Easy and also best way (since you get to know al the necessary steps) is to follow this guide:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-5x/general/guides-how-to-guides-beginners-t3206930
Agree with @peltus. It's worth to learn input via command line. Only 1 annotation: Win10 didn't connect by fastboot, so I took a Linux-Pc.
you can also use Nexus Root Toolkit
http://www.wugfresh.com/nrt/
Rootkit is just not recommended: may work, but you find threads here about issues.
Toolkits may work fine but if you run into problems you may need to fastboot anyway to fix things. So why not learn exactly what you need to do in the first place?
On another note I do fastboot everything on Windows 10 from a USB 3.0 port. You just need the correct drivers or revert to a USB 2.0 port maybe.
rambo8987 said:
Hey Nexus family I'm new here. I've tried to follow the directions in dev section but can't seem to get this thing cracked open. Command shell noon. So is there a simpler version to achieve bootloader and root? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Command shell. Nexus root toolkit has come a long ways but damn near everything it does could be one simple command and a lot less reboots. Just remember the first time you unlock your bootloader you'll wipe your data and i could never get helium working right on 7. Get lastpass, let it reset you, root away. On Nexus devices it literally could not get any easier. (For us--thanks devs!)
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 08:33 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:32 PM ----------
rp158 said:
Agree with @peltus. It's worth to learn input via command line. Only 1 annotation: Win10 didn't connect by fastboot, so I took a Linux-Pc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah i had issues with win 10 seeing fastboot. Lots of people seem to. I fixed that before i unlocked.
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 08:35 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:33 PM ----------
peltus said:
Toolkits may work fine but if you run into problems you may need to fastboot anyway to fix things. So why not learn exactly what you need to do in the first place?
On another note I do fastboot everything on Windows 10 from a USB 3.0 port. You just need the correct drivers or revert to a USB 2.0 port maybe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think i had to use a 2.0 and Google's latest drivers
Sent from my Pixel using Tapatalk

Attempting to get VZW Note 4 to Kitkat

Hello XDA! First post here and I’ve been reading a lot since I got my phone. I seem to have found a solution, (maybe), but I'm not clear on a few vital things.
A little back story… my dad just gave me his Verizon Note 4. It was on Marshmallow, but has since been downgraded to Lollipop 5.1.1, N910VVRU2BPA1. From what I understand it still has the locked MM bootloader (?).
I’m planning to root the phone, but only if I can further downgrade it to Kitkat 4.4.4. I’ve read through the thread “Stabilized process used to unlock Bootloader” and it seems it should unlock the bootloader. However, I’ll end up with a “Developer Edition” phone. This leads to my questions…
1) Once successfully rooted and the bootloader is unlocked, will I be able to downgrade the phone to Kitkat by just flashing the firmware in Odin? I really don’t care if I lose root, I just want Kitkat on the phone.
2) Can I just flash the “retail” version of Kitkat from Sammobile or do I need a “developer edition” Kitkat (if there even is one)?
3) Can someone advise me if what I imagine might be possible is even doable?
Any help is greatly appreciated! I’m new to this so if these are just funky questions, please excuse. Lots to learn! Thanks so much!!!
A little help please!
Someone must know this.
Can I or can't I flash the "retail" Kitkat firmware onto a "supposed" Dev Edition rooted to unlock the bootloader?
I hope someone can clarify this before I do something stupid!
Thanks!
Hey
Do you have teamviewer I can help u out
Jwazz94 said:
Do you have teamviewer I can help u out
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but I don't need help doing it, I just need someone to answer the questions so I don't mess up the phone.
Yes you can, make sure to unlock bootloader first. But when you flash you will loose bootloader unlock. I have a guide where I could use the lollipop bootloader and use kitkat. I really love kitkat and with root you have lots of potential for battery savings and more!
---------- Post added at 08:35 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:32 PM ----------
If you would like to downgrade the bootloader add a twrp custom recovery and use the kitkst method I have and you can have the best phone, I also would recommend you buying a zerolemon battery and case.
But if you do just want to have full stock and have all the bloat ware on it you can like you stated unlock the bootloader and then flash the retail kitkat and your all set and downgraded
---------- Post added at 08:39 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:35 PM ----------
https://forum.xda-developers.com/no...tkat-5-1-1-t3432452/post68903783#post68903783
codydixon said:
Yes you can, make sure to unlock bootloader first. But when you flash you will loose bootloader unlock. I have a guide where I could use the lollipop bootloader and use kitkat. I really love kitkat and with root you have lots of potential for battery savings and more!
---------- Post added at 08:35 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:32 PM ----------
If you would like to downgrade the bootloader add a twrp custom recovery and use the kitkst method I have and you can have the best phone, I also would recommend you buying a zerolemon battery and case.
But if you do just want to have full stock and have all the bloat ware on it you can like you stated unlock the bootloader and then flash the retail kitkat and your all set and downgraded
---------- Post added at 08:39 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:35 PM ----------
https://forum.xda-developers.com/no...tkat-5-1-1-t3432452/post68903783#post68903783
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Thank you very much for responding! I very much appreciate it!
I don't care to keep root and just want the phone on Kitkat. In the future I may decide to root it and play around with roms and such, but not right now. I can now go ahead and attempt it with confidence. I'll let you know how it goes!
Thanks again! :good:
Well, tried all kinds of stuff and it was a no go.
Was able to get the phone rooted finally... had to use KingOroot. Kingroot failed to work no matter how many versions I tried. Once rooted, checked download mode and it indicated Developer. However, I was unable to install retail KK or KK stock restore in Odin 3.10 and 3.09. Since the flash failed, putting it into recovery ended up in an error about "Software update failed"... use a PC, blah, blah, blah. Wouldn't let me go anywhere in recovery.
Decided to try flashing LP 5.1.1 back to the phone and it flashed ok in Odin 3.09. Phone is back up, but lost root, (expected), and I'm back again at square 1. At least the phone isn't bricked! LOL!
Maybe the problem is that this phone has an MM bootloader so eventhough it's unlocked, you can't flash KK to it? Don't know, but I guess I'm back to trying to find this out.
Good experience so far eventhough this attempt didn't get me anywhere! Well... at least I know how to root it and unlock the bootloader!

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