[Q] Unanswered things about root - Xperia Play Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

First of all i'm sorry to post more questions about rooting but it seems like no one cares about some problems... i searched so many times on xda and even google advanced search
I have the r800 xperia play...I've been using it for couple of months so i have a lot of apps n stuff. I am running the newest 4.0.A update and i love it but i read i cant flash to 2.3.2,root it with gingerbread then update to 4.0.A cuz its not OTA
so i thought i could do it the unlocking bootloader way but i have a lot of questions so lets start...
-Is there a way to be rooted in 4.0.A,and if there is...do i need a rom or what?
-If I root my phone will i loose all my app data(this is the most important part,i dont want to loose all my perfect games in cut the rope and games like modern combat which have incredibly hard levels)
-When my phone is rooted...will i be able to update it to 2.3.4 and the Ice Cream Sandwich next year,or i would have to load custom roms
-I also noticed that when i uninstall a free app from my phone it disappears from the My Apps tab in The Market so what am i supposed to do if the root wipes all my apps? Write all 60+ of them on a peace of paper?
Contacts and stuff dont worry me

First off i dont have an unlocked bootloader but i will answer what i can.
1. Someone with an unlocked bootloader will have answer this one but im sure you can.
2. If you unlock your bootloader your phone will be wiped. The only way you would have kept root and all your apps is if your are on 2.3.3 (with a locked bootloader) and are waiting for the xloud update over ota (like i am) But since you have already updated to 4.0.A if you reflashed to 2.3.2 > rooted > ota to 2.3.3 (and wait like me) you will still loose all your apps (since you had to reflash). Best you can hope for is backing up your apps data with titanium backup pro or my backup pro. Then once you are rooted on an unlocked bootloader (or if you have reflashed 2.3.2 > rooted > ota to 2.3.3 with root) you can reinstall the app data.
3. If you unlock the bootloader you can still get updates but you cannot get them from OTA, PC Companion or SEUS (it will brick your phone) you will have to go the development section and a user who has got 2.3.4 (when its out) will post an update package you can use.
4. I have used App List Backup from the market. It saves all your market apps in a list so you can just redownload them and you still get updates e.t.c. Only works with market apps no 3rd party ones. Or even MyAppsList just to create a txt of app names.

Mozza2k11 said:
First off i dont have an unlocked bootloader but i will answer what i can.
1. Someone with an unlocked bootloader will have answer this one but im sure you can.
2. If you unlock your bootloader your phone will be wiped. The only way you would have kept root and all your apps is if your are on 2.3.3 (with a locked bootloader) and are waiting for the xloud update over ota (like i am) But since you have already updated to 4.0.A if you reflashed to 2.3.2 > rooted > ota to 2.3.3 (and wait like me) you will still loose all your apps (since you had to reflash). Best you can hope for is backing up your apps data with titanium backup pro or my backup pro. Then once you are rooted on an unlocked bootloader (or if you have reflashed 2.3.2 > rooted > ota to 2.3.3 with root) you can reinstall the app data.
3. If you unlock the bootloader you can still get updates but you cannot get them from OTA, PC Companion or SEUS (it will brick your phone) you will have to go the development section and a user who has got 2.3.4 (when its out) will post an update package you can use.
4. I have used App List Backup from the market. It saves all your market apps in a list so you can just redownload them and you still get updates e.t.c. Only works with market apps no 3rd party ones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats what I feared...but doesnt titanium backup require root? Maybe i misread it somewhere and its stuck in my head

LOL yeah sorry my bad. Indeed it does. I think mybackup pro works without root but im not sure if it is 100% reliable. Either way you are gonna have to either loose all your data or gamble saving your app data with my backup pro since rooting on anything after 2.3.2 (with a locked bootloader) does not work.

MyBackup requires root to backup app data I mean hasn't anyone figured out how to save their data...seems to me nobody cares about it
Anyways,provided that somehow i magically manage to save it i would still have to wait for OTA. Any ideas where i can check daily when the update will be available?

lol sigh... something is wrong with me today. I stoped reading as soon i a saw
MyBackup and MyBackup Pro will work on all Android mobile devices, regardless if they have root access or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Didnt get to the bottom
NOTE: Backup of Data/setting of applications can only be supported if you have a rooted phone, or if the application integrates with us.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry bout that bud. Probably got your hopes up for nothing I think the arc got their ota update a few weeks after it appeared on SEUS/Pc Companion but who knows its totally up to SE. I dont even think all the countries have got the ota yet for the arc.

You can root without unlocking the bootloader as far as I remember. I believe I used SuperOneClick for it.

What is this guy at post #7 talking about? http://forums.androidcentral.com/general-help-how/63387-backup-application-data.html

Nope
zerojay said:
You can root without unlocking the bootloader as far as I remember. I believe I used SuperOneClick for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was patched up in 2.3.2 so it doesnt work

Fokezy said:
What is this guy at post #7 talking about? http://forums.androidcentral.com/general-help-how/63387-backup-application-data.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe that basic Android - unthemed, untouched - does regular backups to Google. Basically, it will backup your app data and your list of apps. When you wipe a phone and log back in, it'll restore the apps and data automatically.
I noticed this myself when I was on my Samsung Galaxy S Captivate. The first time I installed Cyanogenmod 7 on it, it restored a ton of apps on my phone. The touchwiz framework for the Captivate doesn't allow it by default, I believe.
I have not seen this work on the Xperia Play.

Well...if it works on other phones it can work on any other phone running it...right?
I guess someone would have to extract the feature and somehow make an apk

I don't think it's quite that simple. It's most likely completely removed from the framework, so there's no readding an APK.
More info: http://code.google.com/android/backup/index.html

zerojay said:
I don't think it's quite that simple. It's most likely completely removed from the framework, so there's no readding an APK.
More info: http://code.google.com/android/backup/index.html
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont really know...but why would SE do that...i mean its just extra work limiting something?

Fokezy said:
I dont really know...but why would SE do that...i mean its just extra work limiting something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What your talking about was a feature of froyo, google removed it with gingerbread.
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk

My hopes are being buried deeper and deeper... Ok how about this,that data must exist somewhere on the phones memory right? So if the apps themselves can access and change it,why can't another app or say a computer? Tell me why that won't work...

Fokezy said:
My hopes are being buried deeper and deeper... Ok how about this,that data must exist somewhere on the phones memory right? So if the apps themselves can access and change it,why can't another app or say a computer? Tell me why that won't work...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
because the app has the permission to do it, an unrooted user, does not have access to /data/data

Ok this is the last thing i had in mind...SE had some sort of backup app for the arc and it was ported to other xperia phones but whenever i would try to download it from their official page it would show me random html all over the page and now i lost the link..
But when i think about it... SE couldn't do it without root so...it probably just saves something else. Anyway can i root it with unlocked bootloader without loosing data?

Fokezy said:
Ok this is the last thing i had in mind...SE had some sort of backup app for the arc and it was ported to other xperia phones but whenever i would try to download it from their official page it would show me random html all over the page and now i lost the link..
But when i think about it... SE couldn't do it without root so...it probably just saves something else. Anyway can i root it with unlocked bootloader without loosing data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your phone gets wiped when you unlock your bootloader but you can downgrade to a rootable version of android using flashtool without loosing data you can then make a backup, unlock bootloader, flash latest firmware, restore backup

Oh yea...That recovery thing?

AndroHero said:
Your phone gets wiped when you unlock your bootloader but you can downgrade to a rootable version of android using flashtool without loosing data you can then make a backup, unlock bootloader, flash latest firmware, restore backup
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well my original plan was to downgrade do 2.3.2,Gingerbreak and wait for 4.0.A to hit OTA but Mozza2k11 said it would wipe my data

Related

[Q] Consequences and benefits of rooting?

I've been researching rooting for a while now but I still don't quite get what the consequences, requirements and benefits are of rooting, flashing etc. The wiki seems to be rather out of date, and doesn't even have an arc section.
What I want is:
1.To stop all the crappy software rogers and sony have forced on there, constantly autostarting themselves(Hotshots golf, setup guide, liveware manager, mobile backup, storefront, postcard, even maps likes to run on its own)
2. Swype
What I am concerned of is:
1. Do I have to erase everything on my phone to root?
2. Would I lose any of the default functionality of the arc?
3. What would I require to do this modification?
4. Can I reverse this process and go back to factory settings?
5. Would I be able to update later on?
and most of all, 6. Would it actually allow me to do what I want as stated above?
I've got an LT15a running 2.3.3 on Rogers with no attempted modifications.
bunktacular said:
I've been researching rooting for a while now but I still don't quite get what the consequences, requirements and benefits are of rooting, flashing etc. The wiki seems to be rather out of date, and doesn't even have an arc section.
What I want is:
1.To stop all the crappy software rogers and sony have forced on there, constantly autostarting themselves(Hotshots golf, setup guide, liveware manager, mobile backup, storefront, postcard, even maps likes to run on its own)
2. Swype
What I am concerned of is:
1. Do I have to erase everything on my phone to root?
2. Would I lose any of the default functionality of the arc?
3. What would I require to do this modification?
4. Can I reverse this process and go back to factory settings?
5. Would I be able to update later on?
and most of all, 6. Would it actually allow me to do what I want as stated above?
I've got an LT15a running 2.3.3 on Rogers with no attempted modifications.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Nope at all, if you have unlocked bootloader and flash prerooted kernel correlate to your firmware
2. Nope, the phone still remains intact after rooting, just add superuser to your phone
3. Just need your phone rooted and do exactly as the thread owner said, ur gonna be fine.
4. Yes, all you need is flash back to your stock rom
5. Yes, absolutely possible
6. Yes again, once you have root permission (superuser), you can delete those craps and use Swype.
*just a side note,
you can root your phone without unlocking your bootloader but yeah, that would mean loosing your data completely
@Babygau
Alright, thank you very much.
On a follow up then, can you point me towards the best method of rooting an arc, bearing in mind that Rogers has disabled Sony's bootloader?
And also where I would be able to get Swype? Swype's site is pointless and google just brought up people talking about using it, not how to get it.
@cryogenix
Yeah, thats what I was afraid of :/
Rogers disabled the arcs bootloader, I'm trying to figure out what I can do and hopefully not erase my data.
So long as I can achieve the 2 objectives at the top, I'd be happy though.
You'll lose the ability for ota updates when you delete system files. That's the only bad thing at your plan.
Rooting alone won't remove any abilitys.
Sent from my LT15i using XDA Premium App
@bunktacular
You would need to flash a 2.3.2 ROM onto your phone (Ignore this if you are on 2.3.2). Rooting is as simple as installing Gingerbreak and running it (Gingerbreak doesn't work on 2.3.3 and hence the need to downgrade to 2.3.2). Then do an OTA (Over The Air) update to 2.3.3 to retain root.
I suggest you wipe user data. Make a backup if need be.
Also, get the latest Swype 3.0 beta from here.
Once you have your rooted 2.3.3, install Titanium Backup. It will allow you to remove all the Rogers and SE bloatware. No, you won't lose the functionality of the arc. You stand to gain with rooting not vice-versa.
The only caveat is that once you remove system apps as Flo95 pointed out is that the next time you want to update your phone, you'd have to resort to SEUS instead of an OTA update.
[With the latest update from SE (i.e. the update from August 1, 2011), I'm not sure about root status.]
xtacy! said:
@bunktacular
You would need to flash a 2.3.2 ROM onto your phone (Ignore this if you are on 2.3.2). Rooting is as simple as installing Gingerbreak and running it (Gingerbreak doesn't work on 2.3.3 and hence the need to downgrade to 2.3.2). Then do an OTA (Over The Air) update to 2.3.3 to retain root.
I suggest you wipe user data. Make a backup if need be.
Also, get the latest Swype 3.0 beta from here.
Once you have your rooted 2.3.3, install Titanium Backup. It will allow you to remove all the Rogers and SE bloatware. No, you won't lose the functionality of the arc. You stand to gain with rooting not vice-versa.
The only caveat is that once you remove system apps as Flo95 pointed out is that the next time you want to update your phone, you'd have to resort to SEUS instead of an OTA update.
[With the latest update from SE (i.e. the update from August 1, 2011), I'm not sure about root status.]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the other easier way is go to this website: http://www.wotanserver.com
create a free account, download their client software, and they will do the rest for you
droidlessons.com/what-is-rooting-on-android-the-advantages-and-disadvantages
Rooting v2.3.2, posted May 15th, 2011:
Updating over-the-air to v2.3.3 and keeping root, posted June 22nd, 2011:
Swype doesn't require root. It's just a regular application install.
Alright then, it seems what I really need is to flash 2.3.2 then, at least until gingerbreak works for 2.3.3.
What's the best method for me to do this?
EDIT:
I have found a fairly detailed guide on doing so, let's see how this goes.
Flashing: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1088539
Sucess! Aside from mybackup completely messing up my contacts, everything went smoothly.
if u already have your bootloader unlocked, just flash lastest firmware including prerooted kernel
if not, using gingerbreak
bunktacular said:
Alright then, it seems what I really need is to flash 2.3.2 then, at least until gingerbreak works for 2.3.3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt Gingerbreak will patch 2.3.3.
The issue is that the exploits in 2.3.2, 2.3.3 were patched in 2.3.4 by Google and because Sony's version of 2.3.3 was released after 2.3.4 was released, those security fixes from 2.3.4 were backported into Sony's version of 2.3.3.
bunktacular said:
EDIT:
I have found a fairly detailed guide on doing so, let's see how this goes.
Flashing: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1088539
Sucess! Aside from mybackup completely messing up my contacts, everything went smoothly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Backup & Restore from v2.1 is compatible with v2.3.x.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1196908
babygau said:
if u already have your bootloader unlocked, just flash lastest firmware including prerooted kernel
if not, using gingerbreak
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He's got a Rogers branded arc branded arc. Therefore, he can't unlock the bootloader (yet).

[Q] Rooting AT&T Xperia Play (r800at)?

Hi,
Can someone please write a noob's guide to rooting the AT&T xperia play (r800at)? The phone is carrier locked and bootloader locked. Is there a easy way to just get root permissions on the stock AT&T rom (2.3.3) without unlocking bootloader? All I want to do is remove AT&T apps which I don't use and free up internal memory (I only have 40 mb left). I couldn't find a thread which clearly explains this (have been searching for more than a week now).
PS: This is my first android phone, so I don't have a very good idea about how all this works.
Thanks.
turbo789 said:
Hi,
Can someone please write a noob's guide to rooting the AT&T xperia play (r800at)? The phone is carrier locked and bootloader locked. Is there a easy way to just get root permissions on the stock AT&T rom (2.3.3) without unlocking bootloader? All I want to do is remove AT&T apps which I don't use and free up internal memory (I only have 40 mb left). I couldn't find a thread which clearly explains this (have been searching for more than a week now).
PS: This is my first android phone, so I don't have a very good idea about how all this works.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are basically in the same place i was in a few weeks ago.
First off let me link you this this thread
(http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1270295)
You'll find there that you cannot currently root the r800at without first unlocking the bootloader!
The bad news is that unlocking the bootloader is the the most difficult part
here is the bootloader unlock guide by Alejandrissimo.
(http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1232050)
Its a pain in the butt on this particular phone so i highly recommend you have Alejandrissimo remote support you. Be prepared to pay 24 bucks for the unlock since the software requires it either way.
If you have Alejandrissimo help you he will also install the CWM recovery for you.
THIS is important as it installs a custom recovery mode for your phone that you will use to backup your phone, install kernels, and ROOT your phone.
If you are going the DIY route here is the Clockwork Recovery thread
(http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1130639)
I hope this helps. After all the hard stuff is done the rest is pretty easy. Learning how to put your phone into recovery is important into jumping into all the other great things you can do with your phone.
The first like has an excellent post by xSoNiCcRaCkErSx who has basically tested many of the custom rom/kernel combinations on the r800at!
I hope this helps you and all the other r800at users out there!
Thanks DrROBschiz
From what I have read, [unlocking bootloader + applying clockwork recovery patch + Over-the-air updates] can brick the xperia play. Is this true? Have you tried OTA updates?
Also, I found another method (but I am not sure if it works with r800at). You flash 2.3.2 firmware using tools from wotanserver (cannot paste link because I am a new user). Then use gingerbreak to obtain root (this should work because of downgrading to 2.3.2) and update with OTA to get the latest version of android (claimed to retain root on the latest version). This method also doesn't seem to need unlocked bootloader.
Has someone with AT&T xperia play (r800at) tried the second method?
Also curious, can you unlock the bootloader via the process from Sony on their official site (which I cant link to right now)? Is there a downside outside of not having help (which don't get me wrong may be needed)
@8-Bit: You cannot unlock bootloader following Sony's website if you have carrier locked phone (r800at is locked to AT&T US). When I tried that, I realized that carried locked phones are not 'fastboot' enabled. Also, sim unlocking the phone using 'unlock codes' won't enable 'fastboot'. It will just make the phone capable of accepting other networks sim cards.
Also yes its important to note that if your bootloader is unlocked OTA will brick the phone.
MAKE A BACKUP!
I understand not wanting to deal with the complicated process of the current unlock method but it really is the only viable option for the AT&T version of the Play unfortunately.
I finally have root!!!
turbo789 said:
Thanks DrROBschiz
From what I have read, [unlocking bootloader + applying clockwork recovery patch + Over-the-air updates] can brick the xperia play. Is this true? Have you tried OTA updates?
Also, I found another method (but I am not sure if it works with r800at). You flash 2.3.2 firmware using tools from wotanserver (cannot paste link because I am a new user). Then use gingerbreak to obtain root (this should work because of downgrading to 2.3.2) and update with OTA to get the latest version of android (claimed to retain root on the latest version). This method also doesn't seem to need unlocked bootloader.
Has someone with AT&T xperia play (r800at) tried the second method?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried the second method. It works. But you do loose the AT&T branding (phone will be identified as r800a/r800i based on which ROM you flash). Also, when connected to mobile data it says "H" instead of "H+", though I didn't notice any difference in data speeds.
@8-Bit: if you need any details, I would be glad to help.
I just did this today. Started with stock 2.3.3 on an r800at. I used Wotanserver ( which is currently free for some reason) to flash to 2.32 as an r800a model. Then I installed gingerbreak. I now have root including wireless hotspot!
The only gotcha was I needed to load gingerbreak via my pc, a direct API download from the web would not work.
My speeds are fine as verified on speed test.org and I was able to get back to 2.3.3. Over the air.
Phone is much faster and has much more memory due to the Att bloatware being gone.
Give it a try!
Will doing this enable fastboot so you can unlock the bootloader and install custom roms?
Sent from my R800at using XDA App
tgh0wnz said:
Will doing this enable fastboot so you can unlock the bootloader and install custom roms?
Sent from my R800at using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you talking about the Wotanserver method? I'm not sure how it works it's magic. I think the boot loader probably was unlocked to ge the firmware on but then re locked. At least I hope so because my hope is to get thE 2.3.4 OTA update on somehow
I believe the att, and firmware update supports 4g, hence when you flash it to generic you lose that... But it's speed difference between really fast and really faster.. So it's not even noticeable. Personally I believe it's better if the phone is rooted and bloats removed.
Sent from my XPlay using XDA App.
Ok guys I told a friend I'd help him get rooted. And ive been reading here and im lost.. From what I gather. The bootloader on the att version is locked and to gain root. That needs to be unlocked.. This is where I'm lost. Why is the best method to go through someone else. What does that involve? Sorry to sound dumb I'm just really lost here. haha.
Sent from AT&T Galaxy S2
turbo789 said:
Thanks DrROBschiz
From what I have read, [unlocking bootloader + applying clockwork recovery patch + Over-the-air updates] can brick the xperia play. Is this true? Have you tried OTA updates?
Also, I found another method (but I am not sure if it works with r800at). You flash 2.3.2 firmware using tools from wotanserver (cannot paste link because I am a new user). Then use gingerbreak to obtain root (this should work because of downgrading to 2.3.2) and update with OTA to get the latest version of android (claimed to retain root on the latest version). This method also doesn't seem to need unlocked bootloader.
Has someone with AT&T xperia play (r800at) tried the second method?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does work except you lose att bloatware which is a good thing
---------- Post added at 09:40 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:27 PM ----------
joshyy_rey said:
Ok guys I told a friend I'd help him get rooted. And ive been reading here and im lost.. From what I gather. The bootloader on the att version is locked and to gain root. That needs to be unlocked.. This is where I'm lost. Why is the best method to go through someone else. What does that involve? Sorry to sound dumb I'm just really lost here. haha.
Sent from AT&T Galaxy S2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you just want root then go to wontanserver and register and download driver and client software and follow their directions. Choose r800a 2.3.2 (3.0.A.2.184) . Now use gingerbreak1.2 (search forums) and follow direction. Now update over the air only. You have rooted 2.3.3 r800a enjoy
Okay, so I'm having problems with my phone randomly not getting a signal ever since doing this method... is there currently any way to go back to AT&T stock? Also, has anybody else been having signal issues? It says I have bars, but I can't call/text and I have to restart the phone. Very irritating.
turbo789 said:
Hi,
Can someone please write a noob's guide to rooting the AT&T xperia play (r800at)? The phone is carrier locked and bootloader locked. Is there a easy way to just get root permissions on the stock AT&T rom (2.3.3) without unlocking bootloader? All I want to do is remove AT&T apps which I don't use and free up internal memory (I only have 40 mb left). I couldn't find a thread which clearly explains this (have been searching for more than a week now).
PS: This is my first android phone, so I don't have a very good idea about how all this works.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi... first off all, sorry my bad english
If you have locked bootloader (SIM-locked) and want to root whitout unlocking bootloader, try this:
"Working Root on 2.3.3 locked bootloaders! (Works on all Xperia Plays except R800X)"
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1116090
Worked like a charm form me...
Portugal - TMN
Xperia Play R800i locked bootloader.
Gingerbreak worked very fast for me, BUT only after turning off Wifi connections and UN-plugging the USB-cable
Have froozen lots off app's (think is the correct term) with Titanium backup
Have used Link2SD to move other apps to SDcard
When I bouthg the phone it cames with 2.3.2. I made the mistake OTA upgrading before reading about root.
At beggining (2.3.2) the phone boot, from startup to PIN code, about 3-5 minutes.
After OTA upgrade (2.3.3) i noticed some diferences (about 2 minutes to boot)...
After rooting phone MAKES BOOT IN 45 SECONDS!!! (from begining to PIN CODE)
Always have about 250mb ram free
Internal storage 150mb free (Im still afraid of using Insecure ADB to move dalvik cache to SD)...
I read lots of pages on XDA forum to know about rooting and all the benefits&risk's involved, and root related tools, before rooting so advise all the others newbies like me, doing the same
Thanks to all make this possible (must thanks here because I dont have post permission in develoment area)...
Once again, thanks a lot...
shiftylock said:
Okay, so I'm having problems with my phone randomly not getting a signal ever since doing this method... is there currently any way to go back to AT&T stock? Also, has anybody else been having signal issues? It says I have bars, but I can't call/text and I have to restart the phone. Very irritating.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It might be a late reply, but it might still help some one. I had similar problems (mainly with data connectivity). I fixed it by adding APN profiles for AT&T under settings >> wireless & network setting >> Mobile networks >> Access Point Names. Let me know if you need the details of the APN profile.
guys im having the same problem, i got a friend who needs helps with his xperia play at&t, he wants to unlock the bootloader, and install a custom os, i was looking for the 1st option on the first page, but the link doesnt works anymore, any suggestion?
DrROBschiz said:
Also yes its important to note that if your bootloader is unlocked OTA will brick the phone.
MAKE A BACKUP!
I understand not wanting to deal with the complicated process of the current unlock method but it really is the only viable option for the AT&T version of the Play unfortunately.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi bro. am new to xda new to android new to android modding.so please help. i recently purchased used xperia play r800at from ebay its carrier unlocked.now what i want to know: phone is carrier unlocked can you please say is my phones bootloader unlocked. how can i root it or just give me a link. please please pleaaaasseeee!!!! am super noob i dont even fully know what is bootloader kernel rom and suck thing i just need to overclock and free up some space. please help because i cant find answers online please ((
DrROBschiz said:
You'll find there that you cannot currently root the r800at without first unlocking the bootloader!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that isn't true. I was able to root phone without unlocking bootloader using superoneclick. do the search.
Rooting R800AT
legacygt777 said:
that isn't true. I was able to root phone without unlocking bootloader using superoneclick. do the search.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If he was anything like me, then he searched, searched, searched, and after that, searched some more. Superoneclick does not work for our phones. All the guides for xperia plays don't mention a damn thing about rolling back firmware from version 2.3.3 to 2.3.2 in order to root. I was loosing my mind trying to figure this out at the time; tried multiple PCs/multiple USB ports, thought maybe my syntax was wrong on the manual methods so I tried a couple of automated methods like superoneclick and DoomLord Root, when those didn't work I thought maybe the drivers weren't quite right so I investigated that issue for ages but couldn't find any more up to date ones than the ones I was using. I then tried messing with a few automated rooters right from my phone like z4root and Gingerbreak which didn't work either. Finally I found this thread(same one linked a couple of posts up) which did the trick (I have it saved in my favorites). It's not missing any steps and is accurate to the T. Worked for me the first time and didn't require any special hexes, voodoo, or rain dances.
I just checked and since that thread is so old, the links are now dead. I would post there, but I'm not allowed (developer's thread). Here are some links to the software needed:
Flashtool
Android 2.3.2 (.184 as referred to in that thread)
And finally Gingerbreak v1.2 - should download this from your phone and install to it's internal memory (not the SD card) prior to flashing
The other methods of rooting may have worked once downgraded to 2.3.2, but I just followed that guide and used Gingerbreak as it seemed the simplest way.

can i regularly update my phone if rooted?

like if sony release updates, im not talkinga bout apps i mean official updates for xperia play x800? its rooted but i wanna make sure if i can or not dont' wanna cause a brick
Rooting won't affect updating whatsoever, unless you delete system apps. You may lose root after updating, however.
As long as your bootloader is locked, you're fine.
Sent from my R800x using XDA
If system apps are deleted/frozen, what will the update do? Or will I not get the update?
I want to no the same thing iv just rooted and deleted the crappy FIFA 10 game that came with my phone will that affect updating when ics comes?? When I deleted it it said remove system app :-(
Sent from my R800i using Tapatalk
No u should be fine Is just a game
I deleted the crap apps like FIFA 10 or Office Suite or whatever, too.
And I froze Google Maps and other apps. Then I updated with PC Companion (I also had root on my play), and then the root disappeared and all the deleted apps were on my phone again. I don't have a brick now, it works fine, but I can't root it now
GoldenRazz said:
I deleted the crap apps like FIFA 10 or Office Suite or whatever, too.
And I froze Google Maps and other apps. Then I updated with PC Companion (I also had root on my play), and then the root disappeared and all the deleted apps were on my phone again. I don't have a brick now, it works fine, but I can't root it now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
.62 firmware patches the Update, the only way to root now I believe is to unlock your bootloader, and updating via PC Companion is like flashing new firmware with Flash Tool, I've stuck to .42, I don't want to unlock my bootloader atm, I have once to test out an ICS rom, but in general I'm waiting for the official update to come out, You can flash .42 using Flashtool, I have absolutely no benefit updating to .62.

Any reason NOT to root brand new GNEX?

I'm receiving a new Galaxy Nexus in the mail today. I'm new to the Android world but this site has been extremely helpful in explaining the capabilitys of this OS. Since I've never used Android I don't completely understand the pros/cons to rooting my device. A lot of posts say "you have to do it to understand the benefits" or something of that nature. I understand that once you root you can change your ROM, kernel, navigate all file folders, use certain apps that require superuser access, etc. As of now, I'm not sure I'd want to do any of that. I may want to in the future when I see some limitations that could be bypassed by rooting, but for now I would like to keep the stock ROM, kernel, etc.
It's possible to keep everything stock when rooted, correct? So it would function the same as a stock device but would have the potential to be modified later. If an updated Android OS version is released, can I download and install it the same as anyone with an unrooted stock device?
Is there any disadvantage to rooting? Why would anyone NOT root their device? I'm just thinking that if I'd do it eventually, I might as well do it right now when there are no valuable files/apps/etc. that I'd have to worry about backing up.
People often root to flash aosp roms otherwise not available on htc or galaxy s phones
Aosp also in many cases gave better battery life than their skinned cousins
But on nexus phones and jelly bean I don't see much of one other than to experiment or to use addons like roms such as codename android and baked bean give
--------
Sent from my Jelly Bean powered Nexus Snarf 4G
The main reason I root is for Titanium Backup. That is probably the only way to migrate apps (with data) from one device to another.
Also nandroid (Clockworkmod Recovery) backup is useful if you want to experiment with different ROMs and can restore stock and apps easily.
On a side note: Don't like CWM 6 when backup creates a huge BLOB directory structure. Not convenient to backup your backup to PC.
Backups
Free Tethering
Block ads
etc
Tethering is enabled already. Ah u probably must be talking about the us version. I have the international one.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app
I root for Paranoid Android and Titanium Backup. Two things I can't be without once getting used to them.
But really. Installing Titanium Backup almost feels like a necessity on Any phone to freeze/backup apps detach them from market etc.
I appreciate the responses but you guys aren't really answering my questions...
It's possible to keep everything stock when rooted, correct?
If an updated Android OS version is released, can I download and install it the same as anyone with an unrooted stock device?
Is there any disadvantage to rooting? Why would anyone NOT root their device?
bchaney16 said:
I appreciate the responses but you guys aren't really answering my questions...
It's possible to keep everything stock when rooted, correct?
If an updated Android OS version is released, can I download and install it the same as anyone with an unrooted stock device?
Is there any disadvantage to rooting? Why would anyone NOT root their device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes you can be stock & rooted. Root by itself will not affect an OTA. The only reason to root is if YOU gain something. If your phone dose everything you want without root then there is no reason to root.
bchaney16 said:
I appreciate the responses but you guys aren't really answering my questions...
It's possible to keep everything stock when rooted, correct?
If an updated Android OS version is released, can I download and install it the same as anyone with an unrooted stock device?
Is there any disadvantage to rooting? Why would anyone NOT root their device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes u can stay stock and rooted.
If u root and take an update you will most likely loose root or you will have to unroot before u can take the update. One of the 2.
Biggest disadvantage is that it voids warranty. But no big deal if u no how to go back to stock.
People that don't root probably don't because they don't how, are scared to and/or they don't want to void that precious warranty.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
bchaney16 said:
I appreciate the responses but you guys aren't really answering my questions...
1. It's possible to keep everything stock when rooted, correct?
2. If an updated Android OS version is released, can I download and install it the same as anyone with an unrooted stock device?
3. Is there any disadvantage to rooting? Why would anyone NOT root their device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes
2. Yes. Though root disappears if you update officially OTA. So then you need to re-root. If you would also unlock bootloader and install CWM you can not update OTA.
3. Umm. I guess some manufacturers claims that warranty is void when rooting. That's pretty much the only not-to reason I can think of. If rooted only and don't "use it" you won't even notice you're rooted.
bchaney16 said:
I'm just thinking that if I'd do it eventually, I might as well do it right now when there are no valuable files/apps/etc. that I'd have to worry about backing up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's unlocking the bootlaoder (fastbbot oem unlock) that will (not Play Store devices) wipe the device, not rooting (though the easiest way to root is to unlock the bootloader).
Ok I think its becoming more clear now.
I ordered mine unlocked from the Play Store. Does that mean the bootloader is already unlocked?
How often does an OTA come out anyway?
bchaney16 said:
Ok I think its becoming more clear now.
I ordered mine unlocked from the Play Store. Does that mean the bootloader is already unlocked?
How often does an OTA come out anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, that refers to SIM unlocked, not tied to a specific carrier.
[REF] efrant's "Android for Galaxy Nexus" 101 & FAQs
If your new to Android this is a good place to start getting acquainted with the terminoligy & procedures
Right, I know it is carrier unlocked. So a Play Store GNEX still has a locked bootloader but unlocking it does not erase your files...
If that's the case I guess there's no downside to waiting until I see a good reason to unlock and root. I was thinking that I should do this on my brand new phone so that it wouldn't have any files on it that I'd need to backup. It sounds like I wouldn't have to worry about backing up regardless.
The only reason I can think of to unlock the bootloader straight away (& it's arguably a good one) ...
If for some reason your phone won't boot into android you could fastboot boot a custom recovery & have adb access to pull files from the virtual sdcard.
Rooting is the best thing to happen to Android phones. Do it.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2
bchaney16 said:
Right, I know it is carrier unlocked. So a Play Store GNEX still has a locked bootloader but unlocking it does not erase your files...
If that's the case I guess there's no downside to waiting until I see a good reason to unlock and root. I was thinking that I should do this on my brand new phone so that it wouldn't have any files on it that I'd need to backup. It sounds like I wouldn't have to worry about backing up regardless.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it will. Unlocking the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock will erase /sdcard. Does not matter if you get if from the play store or not. But like you said, if the device is brand new it doesn't matter anyway.
Side note: recently an exploit is discovered that allows to gain root without unlocking the bootloader. And if you have root, you can unlock/lock the bootloader at will without losing data. Follow the link in my signature for more info.
Petrovski80 said:
Yes it will. Unlocking the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock will erase /sdcard. Does not matter if you get if from the play store or not. But like you said, if the device is brand new it doesn't matter anyway.
Side note: recently an exploit is discovered that allows to gain root without unlocking the bootloader. And if you have root, you can unlock/lock the bootloader at will without losing data. Follow the link in my signature for more info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There were numerous reports that Play Store phones did NOT wipe all data when the bootloader was unlocked, I know mine didn't
3rdstring said:
There were numerous reports that Play Store phones did NOT wipe all data when the bootloader was unlocked, I know mine didn't
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was your /sdcard partition untouched after oem unlock?
Petrovski80 said:
Was your /sdcard partition untouched after oem unlock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the data partition was untouched. All my apps & sdcard data was still there.
[DISCUSSION] Google Play Nexus not wiping after Bootloader Unlock

Rooted - how to take/block OTAs?

Recently picked up a Z Play and rooted it (unlocked bootloader, flashed chinese TWRP, flashed Phhh Superuser (and app/Magisk) and I've got everything set up just the way I want it. How do I prevent an OTA from coming through and ruining things or is that something I need to go checking for manually?
Also, when the N update is available, what would be the most advisable way of updating? I have only owned Nexus phones prior to this, so I'm not sure if I should expect Moto to post update factory images for me to flash like google always did the day they released updates, or if there will be some faster/better way?
You can use some sort of root app which has a freezing option, like Titanium Backup.
You have to freeze the "Motorola Updateservices" which is in shown in the attached pictures. "Auftauen" means unfreeze, because i already deactivated the updates service.
For the Nougat question, i would wait until somebody can proof that root is still working flawless before updating.
Ubelsteiner said:
Recently picked up a Z Play and rooted it (unlocked bootloader, flashed chinese TWRP, flashed Phhh Superuser (and app/Magisk) and I've got everything set up just the way I want it. How do I prevent an OTA from coming through and ruining things or is that something I need to go checking for manually?
Also, when the N update is available, what would be the most advisable way of updating? I have only owned Nexus phones prior to this, so I'm not sure if I should expect Moto to post update factory images for me to flash like google always did the day they released updates, or if there will be some faster/better way?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use a good filer like Solid classic, go privapp, find 3c OTA (try this 1st) or 3c checkin, change .apk to .apk.bak.
Reboot.
You do not have to fuss with permissions if you just rename.
G4liant said:
You can use some sort of root app which has a freezing option, like Titanium Backup.
You have to freeze the "Motorola Updateservices" which is in shown in the attached pictures. "Auftauen" means unfreeze, because i already deactivated the updates service.
For the Nougat question, i would wait until somebody can proof that root is still working flawless before updating.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! I don't know why I didn't think of just checking for an updater service app to freeze.
Thanks again

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