I have a Verizon Pixel XL with unlocked bootloader, TWRP, and root on NHG47K. I have been updating it via sideloading the OTAs since I got the phone. I've seen on the forums that a lot of people flash the full factory image. I wanted to know what the difference was between sideloading the OTA vs flashing the full factory image?
There is not too much difference,
OTA is changing only what has been changed, size varies with 100 MB to 600 MB of more. But if you had some problems with unchanged partitions they may not fixed.
Factory image flashing has bigger size (latest is 1.8 GB), wiping your data by default (manually editing for non wipe is possible), mainly for fresh start even without wiping data.
Thanks for the info. Couple more questions:
1. Does sideloading just the OTA, flip the active slot?
2. Is there a way to check if the April OTA updated the bootloader as well. I'm guessing the May OTA does update the bootloader since applying it has broken TWRP and root for people.
savi0 said:
Thanks for the info. Couple more questions:
1. Does sideloading just the OTA, flip the active slot?
2. Is there a way to check if the April OTA updated the bootloader as well. I'm guessing the May OTA does update the bootloader since applying it has broken TWRP and root for people.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
1 - OTA will install on the other slot.
2 - International April version has the same bootloader as March and earlier versions. There is an updated bootloader for Verizon, not the one that breaks Root/TWRP by the way. The May OTA does brake Root/TWRP.
Cheers...
5.1 said:
Hello,
1 - OTA will install on the other slot.
2 - International April version has the same bootloader as March and earlier versions. There is an updated bootloader for Verizon, not the one that breaks Root/TWRP by the way. The May OTA does brake Root/TWRP.
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To clarify your meaning... The May Verizon OTA does or does not break root?
sliding_billy said:
To clarify your meaning... The May Verizon OTA does or does not break root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
Every May releases break Root. It's a general security patch for Pixel devices (as far as I understand).
Cheers...
sliding_billy said:
To clarify your meaning... The May Verizon OTA does or does not break root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Applying the OTA or flashing a full factory image does "break" root and TWRP in the sense that you have to reflash TWRP and apply root again. Apparently the May factory image/OTA is applying a new bootloader which is not allowing the re-application of TWRP and root after flashing. Chainfire made a post detailing that it was due to the new May bootloader detecting an unsigned image, ie TWRP, and then not allowing it to boot.
Here is the link to that post: https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...signing-boot-images-android-verified-t3600606
savi0 said:
Applying the OTA or flashing a full factory image does "break" root and TWRP in the sense that you have to reflash TWRP and apply root again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
If you try to reinstall Root or TWRP after May OTA I think you are going to have a bad surprise. It's up to you...
savi0 said:
Apparently the May factory image/OTA is applying a new bootloader which is not allowing the re-application of TWRP and root after flashing. Chainfire made a post detailing that it was due to the new May bootloader detecting an unsigned image, ie TWRP, and then not allowing it to boot.
Here is the link to that post: https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...signing-boot-images-android-verified-t3600606
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First you say you have to reapply TWRP and Root and now you say it won't allow it... You shouldn't reinstall either TWRP or Root on May bootloader for the moment.
If you want those, flash the April bootloader as stated in other threads talking about the issue...
Cheers...
5.1 said:
First you say you have to reapply TWRP and Root and now you say it won't allow it... You shouldn't reinstall either TWRP or Root on May bootloader for the moment.
If you want those, flash the April bootloader as stated in other threads talking about the issue...
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I should have clarified that you are only able to apply TWRP and root to images and bootloaders that were released before the May updates.
You are absolutely right in that that I should not be installing TWRP or Root on the May bootloader because it'll result in bootloops.
savi0 said:
Sorry, I should have clarified that you are only able to apply TWRP and root to images and bootloaders that were released before the May updates.
You are absolutely right in that that I should not be installing TWRP or Root on the May bootloader because it'll result in bootloops.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
As a workaround, you can flash April bootloader. It's not a big deal and works fine anyway.
Cheers...
5.1 said:
Hello,
Every May releases break Root. It's a general security patch for Pixel devices (as far as I understand).
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I assumed you meant (that the new BL was in all May builds), but your working sounded like maybe it was left out of the Verizon OTA build. I'm just waiting patiently for a TWRP/SU build that doesn't need me to mismatch the BL. It wasn't like there was any functional reason to upgrade in May.
sliding_billy said:
That's what I assumed you meant (that the new BL was in all May builds), but your working sounded like maybe it was left out of the Verizon OTA build. I'm just waiting patiently for a TWRP/SU build that doesn't need me to mismatch the BL. It wasn't like there was any functional reason to upgrade in May.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. A few posts above yours @savi0 pointed to a Chainfire posts relating the issue. You can also check the last posts from EX Kernel. flar2 posted a link to the latest security bulletin...
Normally, we won't have to wait too long to get back TWRP/Root.
Cheers...
sliding_billy said:
I'm just waiting patiently for a TWRP/SU build that doesn't need me to mismatch the BL. It wasn't like there was any functional reason to upgrade in May.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Although I have the Automatic system update option shut off, in the past my Pixel has used cellular data while remaining on the prior version after the update notification appears. I think the phone wasted about 1 GB the last time I didn't take an OTA update. That essentially means I can not take the update and possibly cause the phone to waste cellular data, shut off cellular data to avoid the usage while remaining on the prior version, or take the update. Actually I have seen a fourth option linked below, but that keeps my phone constantly awake and doesn't allow deep sleep, so I never tried the alteration long enough to see if it would avoid cellular data usage if the change was made before the OTA notification.
https://www.androidexplained.com/pixel-hide-ota-notification/
alluringreality said:
Although I have the Automatic system update option shut off, in the past my Pixel has used cellular data while remaining on the prior version after the update notification appears. I think the phone wasted about 1 GB the last time I didn't take an OTA update. That essentially means I can not take the update and possibly cause the phone to waste cellular data, shut off cellular data to avoid the usage while remaining on the prior version, or take the update. Actually I have seen a fourth option linked below, but that keeps my phone constantly awake and doesn't allow deep sleep, so I never tried the alteration long enough to see if it would avoid cellular data usage if the change was made before the OTA notification.
https://www.androidexplained.com/pixel-hide-ota-notification/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
I don't understand what you mean when you say:
alluringreality said:
That essentially means I can not take the update and possibly cause the phone to waste cellular data, shut off cellular data to avoid the usage while remaining on the prior version, or take the update
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have issues, just sideload the latest OTA from Google here:
https://developers.google.com/android/ota
Instructions are available on this page.
Good luck...
alluringreality said:
Although I have the Automatic system update option shut off, in the past my Pixel has used cellular data while remaining on the prior version after the update notification appears. I think the phone wasted about 1 GB the last time I didn't take an OTA update. That essentially means I can not take the update and possibly cause the phone to waste cellular data, shut off cellular data to avoid the usage while remaining on the prior version, or take the update. Actually I have seen a fourth option linked below, but that keeps my phone constantly awake and doesn't allow deep sleep, so I never tried the alteration long enough to see if it would avoid cellular data usage if the change was made before the OTA notification.
https://www.androidexplained.com/pixel-hide-ota-notification/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been concerned about the system using data while waiting to update the phone, but I do not see that happening. I have automatic update turned off in dev settings as well as the google play services notification disables so as not to accidental click it. I see the update available if I look at the check for updates area in system, but it just is sitting at the download and install option there. I have checked my data use since the BL issue came about, and there is no data use besides normal.
Mainly I was just noting that not taking an update can potentially result in cellular data usage, in case anyone wasn't aware of the possible issue. The top items in my cellular data usage were the same as the images in the following thread when I avoided taking an OTA update.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/help/android-os-sucking-mobile-data-t3597680/
savi0 said:
Sorry, I should have clarified that you are only able to apply TWRP and root to images and bootloaders that were released before the May updates.
You are absolutely right in that that I should not be installing TWRP or Root on the May bootloader because it'll result in bootloops.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will the factory images (May or after) lacking the "Verizon" designation lock my Bootloader if flashed to a Verizon Pixel XL (That currently has Unlocked BL and TWRP)?
Sorry, but this is getting Hella confusing.
I'm going to update TWRP, then planning on flashing Factory Image 8.1.0 (OPM1.171019.021, Mar 2018) https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/marlin-ota-nhg47q-73c108b9.zip
Do I need to worry about anything flashing this build?
Just trying to make sure I don't screw myself here, as I really NEED an unlocked Bootloader/ROOT... but I'm still running 7.1.1
Wish there was a forum for us with Verizon Pixels and Unlocked BL's...
PrettyPistol555 said:
Will the factory images (May or after) lacking the "Verizon" designation lock my Bootloader if flashed to a Verizon Pixel XL (That currently has Unlocked BL and TWRP)?
Sorry, but this is getting Hella confusing.
I'm going to update TWRP, then planning on flashing Factory Image 8.1.0 (OPM1.171019.021, Mar 2018) https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/marlin-ota-nhg47q-73c108b9.zip
Do I need to worry about anything flashing this build?
Just trying to make sure I don't screw myself here, as I really NEED an unlocked Bootloader/ROOT... but I'm still running 7.1.1
Wish there was a forum for us with Verizon Pixels and Unlocked BL's...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If OEM unlocking is toggled and your bootloader is unlocked, just assume it is a google version. Flashing a factory image can't lock your bootloader.
shagbag913 said:
If OEM unlocking is toggled and your bootloader is unlocked, just assume it is a google version. Flashing a factory image can't lock your bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The "OEM unlocking" setting is greyed out. And underneath it says "bootloader is already unlocked" (slider is to the left).
That is what you mean by "toggled", correct?
Thanks for the reply! I appreciate it greatly.
PrettyPistol555 said:
The "OEM unlocking" setting is greyed out. And underneath it says "bootloader is already unlocked" (slider is to the left).
That is what you mean by "toggled", correct?
Thanks for the reply! I appreciate it greatly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep.
Related
So I have a Verizon Pixel XL that has been unlocked, TWRP alpha installed, and rooted....
How shall I update my build? Should I even update the build?
My goal is to have the latest update running on my system (manually flashing or OTA I don't care) with an unlocked rooted Pixel XL that can broadcast wifi natively.
I have everthing down except the update piece. Any advice?
You have TWRP and root? How is that working? I was reading that SuperSu needs an update to work with it. Also many people who have taken the OTA (or even flash full system image) are getting stuck in the bouncing balls boot loop. I would hold off on updating. No real major changes as of yet.
Twrp is working fine but I have nothing to flash to test...????
networx2002 said:
Twrp is working fine but I have nothing to flash to test...????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah that is what I'm hinting at.... There is no updated ROM to work with TWRP yet that is updated to the latest Google Build
Root is working. I have twrp alpha 2. Root and elementalx 8 all installed. Although, im getting my daydream headset tomm. And when you install the app it tells you to check for updates. It says I have one. But if you look at the OTA updates NDE63 is the newest. Which im on. So I dn at this point. I guess i'll just roll with it for now. The dev that made purenexus that I ran on my nexus 6. Says hes working on it already and gets his on the 21st. So i'll just stick with what I have for now. I'm sure we'll see roms pretty soon
So, what is the proper/safe way to install an update without breaking anything? Losing root is not a concern since we can just reflash TWRP and SuperSU, but what's the process? Searching is not resulting in a guide that I can be 100% confident in.
I am rooted in my pixel XL. Can I accept OTA updates without losing root? If not, is there a developer/thread that has a safe update to flash? I am not on a custom ROM, I'm stock. Thanks
s1dest3pnate said:
So, what is the proper/safe way to install an update without breaking anything? Losing root is not a concern since we can just reflash TWRP and SuperSU, but what's the process? Searching is not resulting in a guide that I can be 100% confident in.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jreink01 said:
I am rooted in my pixel XL. Can I accept OTA updates without losing root? If not, is there a developer/thread that has a safe update to flash? I am not on a custom ROM, I'm stock. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hit Google's Android OTA page, the file and directions are there to ADB sideload it. You will have to reroot and install TWRP if tou want that.
What i did was download the latest factory image from here from there I used this guide on post two section 8, installed the latest update, restored from cloud back up logged into all my apps (important if you use snapchat), reinstalled TWRP + Root + ElementalX and i was good to go, might seem like a little bit of work, but I've done it so many times I can get it done quickly now.
DeathSentinels said:
What i did was download the latest factory image from here from there I used this guide on post two section 8, installed the latest update, restored from cloud back up logged into all my apps (important if you use snapchat), reinstalled TWRP + Root + ElementalX and i was good to go, might seem like a little bit of work, but I've done it so many times I can get it done quickly now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you edit the flash-all.bat file and take out the -w near the end you wont flash user data. So you can skip restoring your cloud backup and apps. Backup just to be safe though.
TonikJDK said:
Hit Google's Android OTA page, the file and directions are there to ADB sideload it. You will have to reroot and install TWRP if tou want that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have a few more questions. If I do this procedure, is there the possibility that I won't be able to reroot with each update? If I do reroot and reinstall TWRP, is that like a factory reset where I will lose all my data? Back years ago when I would flash Roms, you could install a update without having to factory reset each time, Is this possible with the pixel with being stock? I would love to get the updates each month but don't want to do it if each time I have to reroot, reinstall TWRP and having all my data wiped. Thanks
jreink01 said:
Have a few more questions. If I do this procedure, is there the possibility that I won't be able to reroot with each update? If I do reroot and reinstall TWRP, is that like a factory reset where I will lose all my data? Back years ago when I would flash Roms, you could install a update without having to factory reset each time, Is this possible with the pixel with being stock? I would love to get the updates each month but don't want to do it if each time I have to reroot, reinstall TWRP and having all my data wiped. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it won't stop you from re-rooting and it will not factory reset your phone. So each month you will not lose your data but you will have to reinstall TWRP and root.
TonikJDK said:
No, it won't stop you from re-rooting and it will not factory reset your phone. So each month you will not lose your data but you will have to reinstall TWRP and root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, thanks, that's good to know. When I lose root, will that mess with any of my apps that need root to work like titanium backup? Or will I just need to grant it user privileges again? I have never done this particular process before so I am a little weiry. Do you know of a step by step guide to do this? Sorry but I would feel more comfortable that way. Thanks for all you help and feedback, it's been years since I last went through the rooting, flashing process so, I guess I am being extra cautious. I have/am learning by the feedback you have given me.
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
I am rooted with TWRP RC1
i never sideloaded an OTA before, alway applied factory images. Too lazy, but tired of all the rework.
i folllowed,
https://9to5google.com/2016/12/05/how-to-sideload-android-7-1-1-nmf26o-onto-the-pixel/
no data loss.
just had to use fastboot to reinstall TWRP and reflash SUPERSU.
All is well.
If I choose to side load it, do I root and install TWRP the same way I did when I first did this, with ADB on my windows PC? And side loading will work with a new operating system (when it comes out) along with the monthly security updates? I just checked and my latest security update is from January. If I updated March's update, would that automatically have the February one with it?
---------- Post added at 02:10 AM ---------- Previous post was at 02:02 AM ----------
TonikJDK said:
Hit Google's Android OTA page, the file and directions are there to ADB sideload it. You will have to reroot and install TWRP if tou want that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went to the Google page but all of the links are to 7.1.1 which I am currently on 7.1.2. Plus I am just looking for the security update that just dropped for March.
jreink01 said:
I went to the Google page but all of the links are to 7.1.1 which I am currently on 7.1.2. Plus I am just looking for the security update that just dropped for March.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, didn't know that.
You are on a different path. You wait on Google for updates. There might be, there might not be. Certainly 7.1.2 will go live and we will all be on the same path and then 7.1.2 will get monthly updates, but when that is we don't know.
So for now you stay where you are, or you flash back to 7.1.1. we can do that without data loss if you want.
TonikJDK said:
Ok, didn't know that.
You are on a different path. You wait on Google for updates. There might be, there might not be. Certainly 7.1.2 will go live and we will all be on the same path and then 7.1.2 will get monthly updates, but when that is we don't know.
So for now you stay where you are, or you flash back to 7.1.1. we can do that without data loss if you want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I am in the beta program, that's why I am on this version. So, I'm assuming the beta's don't get updates then? I have turned off automatic updates since I'm rooted. Would you recommend I turn that back on or no? If I'm correct, I can't take a OTA since I'm rooted so I was correct in turning off automatic updates then? I will probably stay on this version since the difference is improvement and bug fixes. So, when 7.1.2 rolls out to everyone, then I would assume that that version would show up on the Google page then?
Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk
Hey all, I'm still on June 1st security patch (NCX26.2), T-Mobile variant and stock, with bootloader unlocked which seems to be preventing my phone from updating to the latest OTA. I'm getting served with NCX26.7, but the update keeps failing.
Could someone post step by step on how to update my phone to the most recent rootable OTA (perhaps sideload?), and then what would be the easiest way to root. I don't mind wiping the entire device as long as it gets me to the latest software patch.
*EDIT* Now looking at the settings, it seems like I've flashed my Kernel months ago, which is likely what's causing my phone not to update. If I follow the Flash-all guide, will that reset the kernel to stock? Screenshot attached.
Many thanks!
milan03 said:
Hey all, I'm still on June 1st security patch (NCX26.2), T-Mobile variant and stock, with bootloader unlocked which seems to be preventing my phone from updating to the latest OTA. I'm getting served with NCX26.7, but the update keeps failing.
Could someone post step by step on how to update my phone to the most recent rootable OTA (perhaps sideload?), and then what would be the easiest way to root. I don't mind wiping the entire device as long as it gets me to the latest software patch.
*EDIT* Now looking at the settings, it seems like I've flashed my Kernel months ago, which is likely what's causing my phone not to update. If I follow the Flash-all guide, will that reset the kernel to stock? Screenshot attached.
Many thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes
Hello All,
It been a while since I've been lurking on the forums. Last time I was here was just after when I got the pixel xl and needed to root and unlock it, and was looking for how to update.
Back then when the update past 7.1.1 released they were having issues keeping root and unlocked status after the update.
I'm looking to update my phone now to the newest, stable release, that will let me keep root and unlocked bootloader on a Verizon Google pixel xl.
Here is where I'm currently at:
Verizon Google pixel xl.
Rooted
Unlocked bootloader
7.1.1 (NOF27B) stock image
Flash fire installed
Twrp installed
As of late I've had the common battery issue with this version get worse as the phone ages and now after landing in Indianapolis a few hours ago I'm having radio issues that I'm hoping a fresh install or update will fix.
I'm just looking for some direction on what steps I need to do to update and not lose root or unlocked bootloader.
I need to get full functionality of my phone back asap, so I appreciate all of your help with this.
Thank you
Hobocoe said:
Hello All,
It been a while since I've been lurking on the forums. Last time I was here was just after when I got the pixel xl and needed to root and unlock it, and was looking for how to update.
Back then when the update past 7.1.1 released they were having issues keeping root and unlocked status after the update.
I'm looking to update my phone now to the newest, stable release, that will let me keep root and unlocked bootloader on a Verizon Google pixel xl.
Here is where I'm currently at:
Verizon Google pixel xl.
Rooted
Unlocked bootloader
7.1.1 (NOF27B) stock image
Flash fire installed
Twrp installed
As of late I've had the common battery issue with this version get worse as the phone ages and now after landing in Indianapolis a few hours ago I'm having radio issues that I'm hoping a fresh install or update will fix.
I'm just looking for some direction on what steps I need to do to update and not lose root or unlocked bootloader.
I need to get full functionality of my phone back asap, so I appreciate all of your help with this.
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This excellent guide by HomeBoy76 should give you all the info that you need....
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/how-to/guide-pixel-xl-android-8-1oreo-unlock-t3715279
Hobocoe said:
Hello All,
It been a while since I've been lurking on the forums. Last time I was here was just after when I got the pixel xl and needed to root and unlock it, and was looking for how to update.
Back then when the update past 7.1.1 released they were having issues keeping root and unlocked status after the update.
I'm looking to update my phone now to the newest, stable release, that will let me keep root and unlocked bootloader on a Verizon Google pixel xl.
Here is where I'm currently at:
Verizon Google pixel xl.
Rooted
Unlocked bootloader
7.1.1 (NOF27B) stock image
Flash fire installed
Twrp installed
As of late I've had the common battery issue with this version get worse as the phone ages and now after landing in Indianapolis a few hours ago I'm having radio issues that I'm hoping a fresh install or update will fix.
I'm just looking for some direction on what steps I need to do to update and not lose root or unlocked bootloader.
I need to get full functionality of my phone back asap, so I appreciate all of your help with this.
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not think there is anyway to upgrade the 7.1.1 firmware to 8.10 firmware and not lose root. I would suggest you use my guide and Do #4 wipe data and then do #7 root.
Why wipe data? There have been a lot of changes to the firmware since 7.1.1 (NOF27B) stock image.
Note: Copy/Backup the information on your internal storage you want to keep to your computer i.e., pictures SMS, files etc. Why? Because using flash-all with the -w will wipe your internal storage.
It's actually pretty simple, just download the latest factory image of either Oreo,. Flash the flash all script included with fast boot. Afterward boot into the system without setting up a pin or password or anything, set it up, then reboot into boot loader and boot the latest TWRP, then within TWRP flash TWRP zip file and Magisk root. Reboot system.
Homeboy76 said:
I do not think there is anyway to upgrade the 7.1.1 firmware to 8.10 firmware and not lose root. I would suggest you use my guide and Do #4 wipe data and then do #7 root.
Why wipe data? There have been a lot of changes to the firmware since 7.1.1 (NOF27B) stock image.
Note: Copy/Backup the information on your internal storage you want to keep to your computer i.e., pictures SMS, files etc. Why? Because using flash-all with the -w will wipe your internal storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you everyone for the responses. Homeboy 76, I just had a quick question regarding your guide. The steps for the bootloader. Are you just showing all 3 options (unlock, lock, stock) for thurougness? Or do I have to return the bootloader to stock and lock it before I can install the update and root again?
Also I should test a factory reset before I try updating to see if my radio problem is worse than I expected. If I just go into the system and do a factory reset, besides losing root will it be fine doing that? Or does that get it into a weird root/stock limbo and brick it? Or prevent me from installing the update?
Thank you for your help with this. I just don't want to brick my phone while trying to fix it.
Hobocoe said:
Thank you everyone for the responses. Homeboy 76, I just had a quick question regarding your guide. The steps for the bootloader. Are you just showing all 3 options (unlock, lock, stock) for thurougness? Or do I have to return the bootloader to stock and lock it before I can install the update and root again?
Also I should test a factory reset before I try updating to see if my radio problem is worse than I expected. If I just go into the system and do a factory reset, besides losing root will it be fine doing that? Or does that get it into a weird root/stock limbo and brick it? Or prevent me from installing the update?
Thank you for your help with this. I just don't want to brick my phone while trying to fix it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"...for thurougness?
Yes
Or do I have to return the bootloader to stock and lock it before I can install the update and root again?
No, Do not lock the boot loader.
Also I should test a factory reset before I try updating to see if my radio problem is worse than I expected. If I just go into the system and do a factory reset, besides losing root will it be fine doing that?
Yes
If it locks the bootloader, go here to unlock it:
[How-to] Unlock bootloader on Verizon Pixel/XL by burduli
Or does that get it into a weird root/stock limbo and brick it? Or prevent me from installing the update?
No, No.
Homeboy76 said:
"...for thurougness?
Yes
Or do I have to return the bootloader to stock and lock it before I can install the update and root again?
No, Do not lock the boot loader.
Also I should test a factory reset before I try updating to see if my radio problem is worse than I expected. If I just go into the system and do a factory reset, besides losing root will it be fine doing that?
Yes
If it locks the bootloader, go here to unlock it:
[How-to] Unlock bootloader on Verizon Pixel/XL by burduli
Or does that get it into a weird root/stock limbo and brick it? Or prevent me from installing the update?
No, No.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you homeboy for the assistance. It's much appreciated. Luckily my phone issues were related to the location I was in. Indianapolis doesn't like my phone number for some reason.. But ill still be updating either way.
Thanks again.
Hobocoe said:
Thank you homeboy for the assistance. It's much appreciated. Luckily my phone issues were related to the location I was in. Indianapolis doesn't like my phone number for some reason.. But ill still be updating either way.
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're welcome
My P6P (on T-Mobile) was working fine for me on the November release.
I did not sideload the December release.
With the January release, I started to notice significant radio issues.
I am seeing the same issue with the February release and after taking a look, I see that the radio has NOT changed between January and February. (But is a different radio from the November update)
I would definitely like to try flashing the November radio, but my Pixel bootloader is locked and can't be unlocked since it is still carrier locked. (I am working on that.)
In the meantime, is it possible for someone to make a custom OTA sideload package with just the November radio in it for those with locked bootloaders?
The 12L radio is different. I flashed it yesterday (12L factory image) and Signal is back to normal, and switching from Wifi to LTE/5G is much better than it's ever been on my 6 Pro. but its only been 24hours, but worth a try/
Good to know, but if I don't want to go 12L... again, could someone create a custom OTA sideload package with just the radio from 12L?
If this is even possible, which I'm dubious of, you might want to think twice. With a locked bootloader, your recovery options are more limited, so if someone creates such a custom OTA zip (again, if that's even possible to work with an unlocked bootloader), and something goes seriously wrong, it might be either more difficult or impossible to recover.
I would think (and could be completely wrong), that in the event of an issue, I'd be able to flash the original full OTA sideload package to recover.
chp said:
I would think (and could be completely wrong), that in the event of an issue, I'd be able to flash the original full OTA sideload package to recover.
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I just wanted to add, I tried flashing a different radio in December after flashing that image before it got pulled, and my phone wouldn't boot (but my bootloader was unlocked so I was able to save it but I wouldn't try it). I suggest you unlock your bootloader and flash 12L on both slots. That's what I did yesterday. Just kind of kill 2 birds with one stone by wiping, reflashing, and using a new build/radio (3 birds I guess?)
Creating a custom OTA won't work. That will break the cert chain and the phone won't validate it and install it.
chp said:
I would think (and could be completely wrong), that in the event of an issue, I'd be able to flash the original full OTA sideload package to recover.
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It depends on how badly things went wrong. I would hope so, too, but would be a bigger gambler than someone who has the bootloader unlocked in the same situation. But of course, if you had an unlocked bootloader, you could flash only the radio.img without any customization needed. But as @TonikJDK indicates, the question is effectively moot, anyway.
TonikJDK said:
Creating a custom OTA won't work. That will break the cert chain and the phone won't validate it and install it.
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Interesting. I didn't realize that was in place (signing of the various components such as radio+recovery+bootloader+image), and that the checking was disabled as part of the bootloader being unlocked.
chp said:
and that the checking was disabled as part of the bootloader being unlocked.
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I could be wrong, but to clarify, the phone still checks the OTA to make sure it's valid even with an unlocked bootloader.
No one * bothers creating a custom OTA to install their ROMs as it would be more trouble than it's worth to do it that way.
What the unlocked bootloader gets us is the ability to install things in other ways than the normal OTA process.
* Other than possibly more fully developed custom ROMs such as GrapheneOS and such might use the normal OTA method since you can re-lock the bootloader once you're on it - I have no first-hand experience with GrapheneOS other than reading their site and what other users have said about it.
roirraW edor ehT said:
I could be wrong, but to clarify, the phone still checks the OTA to make sure it's valid even with an unlocked bootloader.
No one * bothers creating a custom OTA to install their ROMs as it would be more trouble than it's worth to do it that way.
What the unlocked bootloader gets us is the ability to install things in other ways than the normal OTA process.
* Other than possibly more fully developed custom ROMs such as GrapheneOS and such might use the normal OTA method since you can re-lock the bootloader once you're on it - I have no first-hand experience with GrapheneOS other than reading their site and what other users have said about it.
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Ah yes, you're right. I was overthinking it. The sideload OTA does have a cert, so without the private key, we wouldn't be able to create a new cert to match the custom OTA contents.
I also use T-Mobile and was always using the November radio image whilst still updating everything else to the latest release. I was in the same boat as you with the November radio image working so much better than the others. Granted, right now I'm using the 12L beta radio image as it's (thankfully) much better than the others.
But yeah, with an unlocked bootloader you can flash whichever radio image that you want - even if it's from a different release than your current Android build. It won't cause problems if you know what you're doing and only takes a few minutes. Feel free to shoot me a message once your bootloader is unlocked if you need any help with this.
NippleSauce said:
I also use T-Mobile and was always using the November radio image whilst still updating everything else to the latest release. I was in the same boat as you with the November radio image working so much better than the others. Granted, right now I'm using the 12L beta radio image as it's (thankfully) much better than the others.
But yeah, with an unlocked bootloader you can flash whichever radio image that you want - even if it's from a different release than your current Android build. It won't cause problems if you know what you're doing and only takes a few minutes. Feel free to shoot me a message once your bootloader is unlocked if you need any help with this.
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Thanks. I've been with Android and Pixel/Nexus for a long time, and other than needing to brush up, I'm still familiar with the ins-and-outs to flashing, etc.
My Pixel 6 Pro is carrier locked, and would have to be unlocked before I could unlock the bootloader. I was just hoping to make my Pixel 6 Pro usable again without having to try to get it unlocked.
Since my radio issues started with the January update, I was hoping the February update would fix things. At first it did seem better, but then the poor behavior returned. And when I realized that the radio was unchanged in February from January, that explained things.
chp said:
My Pixel 6 Pro is carrier locked, and would have to be unlocked before I could unlock the bootloader. I was just hoping to make my Pixel 6 Pro usable again without having to try to get it unlocked.
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I feel ya. That's partially why I started buying my phones from the company that makes them (and also because my phone carrier stopped offering any interesting upgrades after being with them for a few years lol). But supposedly, a quick text chat with a T-Mo representative via the T-Mobile app can get your device carrier unlocked via the SIM card if you're polite with the whole thing and ask the right questions. I'm not sure if anything specific needs to be asked or stated, but you could always give that a shot. I just quickly skimmed through a post from someone who did that the other day but I didn't give it too much thought since my device is factory unlocked.
But I wish you the best of luck with your phone service!
So I can't use adb update in recovery for the May 2023 ota update. I think I know the culprit to my issue. When I saw that the May update was out, I just did the usual check to see if the update was pushed to the phone. When I checked for an update, an update started and I thought it was the May update. But after a restart, I saw that it was the still the April update. I figured out that my google version P6P that I used on Verizon, was updated with the Verizon April OTA update, which is dumb because I already had the global April Update installed (I've always had the global builds on my P6P, instead of the VZW ones). Now when I try to adb upgrade in recovery the May 2023 global ota, I get an error:
"Update package is older than the current bulid, expected a build newer than timestamp 1681504608 but package has timestamp 1679671817 and downgrade not allowed"
So is there a way to be able to hop back on the global ota's without having to reset everything and use a factory image?
Phone is completely stock, non-rooted, and I haven't unlocked the bootloader (but OEM unlocking is activated in dev options).
Unlock the bootloader, if you can, and flash a factory image. You can preserve your data doing this, simply by editing the flash-all batch file: info on how to do this is readily available. After, you can lock the bootloader if you wish.
Strephon Alkhalikoi said:
Unlock the bootloader, if you can, and flash a factory image. You can preserve your data doing this, simply by editing the flash-all batch file: info on how to do this is readily available. After, you can lock the bootloader if you wish.
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unlocking the Bootloader will wipe the data anyway..
fernoct said:
unlocking the Bootloader will wipe the data anyway..
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You are of course correct. So he takes a backup of his internal storage at the very least. There are ways to take a full backup and restore it but it's somewhat tedious to do.
Gonna wait till the June OTA (when the timestamp will presumably be later) and update manually going forward.
I'm in the same boat, and have too many work apps to reconfigure for a reimage. Waiting it out seems like the best option.
somethingsomethingroot said:
Gonna wait till the June OTA (when the timestamp will presumably be later) and update manually going forward.
I'm in the same boat, and have too many work apps to reconfigure for a reimage. Waiting it out seems like the best option.
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Yup, that's probably what i will do. Fight the temptation to flash the vzw ota for may (shouldn't be too hard since May update was for security and bug fixes). If the June global OTA, which will also will be a feature drop, doesn't flash...then I'll resort to unlocking the bootloader and flashing factory image. Thanks to everyone else for chiming in.
For anyone reading this later, remember to turn off automatic system updates in dev options. I forgot to do this and my phone just took the VZW May update by itself. So most likely, I won't be able to adb install the June update, and will have to wait until July.