Develop Bugs

[Q] Easiest way to root a unlocked bootloader Arc running on 2.3.3 ?

If you have an Xperia Arc version 2.3.3 unlocked bootloader, you can't root using Gingerbreak or Super1click as the update, unwillingly, made sure that stuff doesn't work anymore.
The only way to root, as far as I know, is flashing -> getting 2.3.2 ROM -> root from their -> update.
I can not use that way as everytime I try to update in the last step it wont turn on again after reboot (so I have to flash using http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126358, though i'm sure it'll work for most of you.
Question being: Is there atm really no alternative to root for me then? I'm kinda desperate, i've been looking on XDA a lot of hours and this is rly my last hope to get this over with..
thx in advance!

As you said yourself.. You have an unlocked bootloader.. so you don't have to more like you cannot use the FOTA technique cos OTA update bricks the phone..
Simply flash one of the prerooted kernel like DoomLord Kernel.. Should do it .. Or if you want the stock kernel then Serach the forums for something like "Root 4.0.A.2.368" They will usually specifically say that you need unlocked bootloader..

[Guide] All in one 'Namaste guide' to Bootloader unlocking, Rooting, Flashing & more

thx for the replies.
though, I've read that whole guide before, problem is:
"Ques – Ok. So quickly tell me how to unlock my Xperia Arc’s bootloader and install a beautiful Custom ROM.
Not so fast dear. I described a deal about bootloader and benefits of its unlocking but let’s get practical. There are two disadvantages of unlocking the Xperia Arc’s bootloader.
As per my knowledge, till date, there is no Custom ROM designed for your Xperia Arc. So, it’s useless to unlock your bootloader. "
So, if a "non stock kernel" means the same as a "custom ROM", where do I find it? i dont want the original one as that1 is outdated. I know how to flash my phone, but only with delivered folders (which are always X10)
with kind regards,
Tom

Emissia said:
If you have an Xperia Arc version 2.3.3 unlocked bootloader, you can't root using Gingerbreak or Super1click as the update, unwillingly, made sure that stuff doesn't work anymore.
The only way to root, as far as I know, is flashing -> getting 2.3.2 ROM -> root from their -> update.
I can not use that way as everytime I try to update in the last step it wont turn on again after reboot (so I have to flash using http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1126358, though i'm sure it'll work for most of you.
Question being: Is there atm really no alternative to root for me then? I'm kinda desperate, i've been looking on XDA a lot of hours and this is rly my last hope to get this over with..
thx in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the same problem with my Neo. I've tried flashing 2.2.2, then rooting with Flashtool (just click Xperia X10), but this doesn't work, and after relocking the bootloader and updating, the phone is bricked as well. Tried this like 5 times.
I think I'll just wait for 2.3.4 as my main reasons to root are making screenshots and removing bloatware. 2.3.4 adds screenshots, and currently, my ROM is not totally full.

Same here, just wanna get that bloatware off, starting to look like i'm gonna wait as well... this has already taken enough hours away from me

Emissia said:
Same here, just wanna get that bloatware off, starting to look like i'm gonna wait as well... this has already taken enough hours away from me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flash a prerooted image or relock the bootloader and use the more lengthy method.

Emissia said:
thx for the replies.
though, I've read that whole guide before, problem is:
"Ques – Ok. So quickly tell me how to unlock my Xperia Arc’s bootloader and install a beautiful Custom ROM.
Not so fast dear. I described a deal about bootloader and benefits of its unlocking but let’s get practical. There are two disadvantages of unlocking the Xperia Arc’s bootloader.
As per my knowledge, till date, there is no Custom ROM designed for your Xperia Arc. So, it’s useless to unlock your bootloader. "
So, if a "non stock kernel" means the same as a "custom ROM", where do I find it? i dont want the original one as that1 is outdated. I know how to flash my phone, but only with delivered folders (which are always X10)
with kind regards,
Tom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm.. Only non stock kernels yet around are the DoomLord and CM (FreeXperia) kerenls.. Check the development forums for them..
The Stock aren't really "outdated".. These custom kerenels are based on the original stock code with a few features enabled.. So don't expect android 2.3.4 from them or anything..
As for rooting issues.. Follow the Namaste guide and a few posts in the development forum bout rooting arc properly and carefully.. Noting what is Locked and Unlocked and which method works where.. And it won't take more than 15 minutes to setup everything..

Bunch of questions, terrible newbie

Okay. Here to learn as much as I can, if you can number your responses with the questions and add whatever you believe is best. Thanks. ^^
Bootloader:
1. Do you unlock a bootloader JUST so you can load custom roms?
2. Is the method of unlocking the bootloader on SE's website the best way?
3. Do I need to have the SIM unlocked before unlocking the bootloader?
4. What is the point of custom roms?
Rooting:
5. Can I remove the apps here; http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1046699 just by having root access? No special tools needed?
6. Are there other good methods of optimizing things like battery life specific to the xperia play?
Sim Unlocking:
7. Is there any method of doing this without a cost?

I'm on an R800x, which doesn't have sim card anything, so I'll just answer the questions I know.
1. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to install 3rd party software that overwrites the stuff that is part of the boot process. This pretty much refers to the kernel, for the Play. Certain roms, such as MIUI and CM7 require you to use a kernel different from stock, and since you need a different kernel, you must have an unlocked bootloader. As far as I know, that's the only real benefit for an unlocked bootloader, from a user standpoint.
4. There are many things that custom roms offer, as opposed to the stock your phone came with. This can range from a new UI, new apps, tweaks to system files, etc. Generally speaking, developers strive to make their custom roms operate better than stock. For more information on this point, I would suggest you check out some of the custom rom threads, just to see what they've changed from the stock rom.
5. You will need root, but you will need something with which to remove the apps. The best app to use, in my opinion, is Titanium Backup. Not only will it allow you to remove system apps, but it will also back up those and user apps, all for free. Unless you buy the pro key, that is.
6. As far as specific tips for the Play, I would recommend rooting so that you can disable the auto brightness. While auto brightness is desirable in most phones, the Xperia Play (And other Xperia devices, I think) are almost constantly shifting the brightness, to where a slight tilt of the hand can make the screen dim or brighten. I'm sure that can't be good on the battery. Generally speaking, though, apps such as Juice Defender and Battery Defender have profiles or just general settings to adjust data flow and many other options that can significantly increase battery life.

To the best of my knowledge
2. Is the method of unlocking the bootloader on SE's website the best way?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, IMO.
3. Do I need to have the SIM unlocked before unlocking the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, but you can check if you can unlock following the instruction on SE's site:
1. First, you should confirm that it is possible to unlock the boot loader of your phone by checking the service menu. In your phone, open the dialler and enter *#*#7378423#*#* to access the service menu.
2. In your phone, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can continue with the next step. If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked.
Note that unlocking void your warranty.
7. Is there any method of doing this without a cost?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I know of.

Awesome guys, Thanks a bunch.

Unless you're really tight on space (which shouldn't normally happen if you've done the adb setinstalllocation trick and moving apps to sdcard), i would suggest freezing the apps instead of removing them especially if you're sticking with stock. This would make it a lot easier to move to the next official OS upgrade instead of a mad scramble to find the stock apps and reinstall them. The pro version of Titanium backup and SystemCleanup has the freeze function. I've freezed a lot of crap on my phone and it makes a world of difference wrt. boot time and general performance.

Unlock boot loader is very good allows you to flash custom kernel and overclock

@JulianPaul/Vabene2002: Not sure if im sticking with stock, My model is R800AT. So not sure of my options yet. Im still trying to absorb as much as I can.
Wonder if I asked some more questions if they'd be answered.
8. Is there any recovery utility WITHOUT unlocking the bootloader? Say I mess something up with my root, Can I recover back to an original ROM?
9. Can I back up my current running ROM as soon as I get my phone so that I may return it to that state?
10. If you need to change your kernel to match a modified ROM; Your current ROM wont support it, so you need to change kernel AND ROM at the same time? Otherwise your phone wont boot?
11. Any decent links for rooting an r800at?
12. Is gingerbread the latest version of android an xperia play can run and have jailbroken?

Would having root access void the warranty? I want to remove some pre installed apps so is there a way to do this without voiding the warranty?
Thanks
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

Yes, it will.
But if you just recover to a stock ROM, then its like you never rooted.
Thus, warranty reinstated.

Nah, don't want to risk it yet. May never root this phone actually...
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

Im going to root mine as soon as it arrives. Lol.
Not to diminish your opinion, If you dont know exactly what you're doing, it could get ugly.

I rooted my old ZTE blade but this phone is just... different. I mean it's probably gonna Get ICS anyways and if I were to root I'd probably need a very simple guide.
Sent from my R800i using XDA App

SuperOneClick is about as simple as one could imagine.
Sent from my R800x using xda premium

Trygon said:
SuperOneClick is about as simple as one could imagine.
Sent from my R800x using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you know the latest version of android this works on? Looks like 2.2.2 to me.

SirRudolph said:
Do you know the latest version of android this works on? Looks like 2.2.2 to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
like 4.0 it uses different exploits for different versions. gibgerbreak and zergrush are 2 of them
Fma965 - Forgottencoders.co.uk
Want to make me a banner? PM me

8. Is there any recovery utility WITHOUT unlocking the bootloader? Say I mess something up with my root, Can I recover back to an original ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you can install Clockworkmod recovery from the market, there is an auto installer for xperia. That can be done without unlocking the bootloader but you must be rooted.
9. Can I back up my current running ROM as soon as I get my phone so that I may return it to that state?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe a nandroid backup on CWM would do the trick, but I am not sure. I simply made backups of everything I uninstalled so I could revert it.
10. If you need to change your kernel to match a modified ROM; Your current ROM wont support it, so you need to change kernel AND ROM at the same time? Otherwise your phone wont boot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. kernel flashing on locked bootloaders brick your phone. and AFAIK, no custom rom except those based on stock have touchpad support.
11. Any decent links for rooting an r800at?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have an r800a, not sure about the differences regarding r800at, check this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1294129
12. Is gingerbread the latest version of android an xperia play can run and have jailbroken?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you keep it stock, yes, 2.3.4. There is FreeXperia rom that is 2.3.7 as well.
On the forum you will find links to ICS based roms, SE leaked and AOSP. Both are WIP, I believe.
I've read somewhere that Sony will release ICS for the xperia 2011 line around April.

pretty sure flashing kernels on locked bootloaders doesn't BRICK your phone. It won't allow the kernel to be flashed as you can't use Fastboot only flashmode (official signed Roms only )
Fma965 - Forgottencoders.co.uk

fma965 said:
pretty sure flashing kernels on locked bootloaders doesn't BRICK your phone. It won't allow the kernel to be flashed as you can't use Fastboot only flashmode (official signed Roms only )
Fma965 - Forgottencoders.co.uk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't brick as in "turns your phone into a very expensive paper weight", but your phone will not boot anymore and you will have to flash a stock rom with flashtool to recover.

[Q] Want to help me pick a ROM for my new Play? :D

Howdy folks. Just got an Xperia Play in the mail today! My previous phone was a Dell Streak, and while I enjoyed it, this is a refreshing change so far.
Anyways, I was wondering if you'd like to help me pick out a ROM, or at least whether I should go with Gingerbread or ICS. Here are a few things that matter to me:
1. I'd like it to be stable. I tried out about a dozen Streak roms, and while it was fun, it seemed that having the latest and greatest wasn't always stable, and got frustrating at times. I definitely wouldn't mind sacrificing a few bells & whistles for added stability.
2. I'd like it to perform well. Being able to overclock it a tad would be nice, but I don't feel like I need to have the most l33t benchmarks on this forum either. Though, I'd be happy to sacrifice bells & whistles for great performance.
3. Battery Life. This probably has more to do with how much I overclock it, and which kernel I use, but I'd like the phone to be able to last a full day of heavy use. From reading reviews about the phone, it sounds like I probably won't have to worry about this at all, so this point might be moot.
4. Full gamepad functionality. After reading the forums all day, I got the impression that ICS didn't have full gamepad functionality. Maybe this point is moot too, but I honestly saw so many inexplicit posts on this subject that I couldn't say.
Anyways, I think that covers it. I made this post longer than it needed to be, but I like being explicit. Maybe I should just try out all the major roms myself, and write reviews about them in this fashion.
I'd love to hear what you guys think, THANK YOU!!
TL;DR aka too much jibber jabber:
I'm looking for a rom/kernel combo that is stable, performs well, and I don't mind it being a bit stripped down
If I had to choose now, it seems like the Gingerbread releases give you better stability and performance, and don't have limited functionality. So many roms!
PS> I have the R800a, and am not afraid to do nitty gritty things to install a new rom

My recommended Rom&Kernel combo is in my sig, with links even. Needs an unlocked bootloader for the kernel though

jacklebott said:
My recommended Rom&Kernel combo is in my sig, with links even. Needs an unlocked bootloader for the kernel though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like the way that looks, I'm giving it a shot!
I've completed the following steps:
1.Flash firmware 4.0.2.A.0.58 Enhanced via Flashtool.
2.Root the firmware via Flashtool.
3.Install CWM Recovery.
but when I get to step 4..
4.Reboot phone and press [vol+] on boot at the Sony Ericsson logo, when the notification LED turns Blue.
It doesn't boot into recovery mode. I've tried each volume key, the search key, and the back key and none of them are working.
Also, my phone doesn't even have a notification LED! It's a white R800a, so maybe that's why, not sure.
Anyways, thanks for the suggestion, and if anybody knows what i'm goofing up on i'd be happy to try some new things, Thanks!

You need a custom kernel, or ClockworkMod Recovery installed from the market, to boot into recovery. Did you make sure to install recovery first?

jacklebott said:
You need a custom kernel, or ClockworkMod Recovery installed from the market, to boot into recovery. Did you make sure to install recovery first?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ah there we go, thanks! I got clockworkmod installed, and installed NXT Light, and am now trying to install the lupus kernel. When I go to flash it in fastboot mode, I get the error "FAILED (remote: the device must be rooted first)".
This is a bit strange, because I've got superuser installed properly, and have had root access for everything else.
Thanks again,
Brian

Like I said in my earlier post, you need an unlocked bootloader to install a custom kernel (btw if you want to say thanks, just click that "thanks" button )
EDIT: http://unlock-bootloader.com/ is a good site to unlock the bootloader (for a price, since you have an R800a and can't unlock it via the official method). Though I hear he doesn't respond much, and it's easier to reach him on his Google Talk

jacklebott said:
Like I said in my earlier post, you need an unlocked bootloader to install a custom kernel (btw if you want to say thanks, just click that "thanks" button )
EDIT: http://unlock-bootloader.com/ is a good site to unlock the bootloader (for a price, since you have an R800a and can't unlock it via the official method). Though I hear he doesn't respond much, and it's easier to reach him on his Google Talk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before I did any of this, I did *#*#SERVICE#*#* to check if my bootloader was unlocked, and it said something like "bootloader unlockable: yes" so i suppose that didn't necessarily mean that the bootloader is already unlocked. Now when I enter that code, it doesn't do anything in the new rom. I searched the forums for a while but couldn't find any solution to this.
Also, will do
Brian

Oh, if you've got "bootloader unlockable: yes" then you should be able to use the official unlock service at http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/ if I'm not mistaken. Doing this will wipe all user data though, so beware! You also won't be able to use DRM dependent apps like that song search thing Sony Ericsson made. I had thought the R800i was the only version that could be officially unlocked, but you might be able to since your phone says it's unlockable

jacklebott said:
Oh, if you've got "bootloader unlockable: yes" then you should be able to use the official unlock service at http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/ if I'm not mistaken. Doing this will wipe all user data though, so beware! You also won't be able to use DRM dependent apps like that song search thing Sony Ericsson made. I had thought the R800i was the only version that could be officially unlocked, but you might be able to since your phone says it's unlockable
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha if only i could click that thanks button all day! I'll give it a go in the morning, thanks man

1800yolk said:
Haha if only i could click that thanks button all day! I'll give it a go in the morning, thanks man
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lupus is now installed! I think I'm pretty much all set! I've got the swing of this now, so I'll be back to try new ones in the future, but for now this rom looks swell.
The last thing I'm trying to do is change the governor on Lupus. Still searchin the forums for where to start on that
Thanks again!
Brian

Best is smartass V2

I'm using NXT 1.3 and Doomkernal. Maybe it's just me, but I seem to get WAY better batter life out of Doomkernal v14 vs. Lupus v5.

Does anybody know how to change the governor for the lupus kernel? Thanks!
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app

1800yolk said:
Does anybody know how to change the governor for the lupus kernel? Thanks!
Sent from my R800i using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try No-frills CPU Control

jacklebott said:
Try No-frills CPU Control
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this is AwEsOmE! You'll always have my thanks man.

Pre rooted JB rom and remove bloatware? Recommend me a rom?

Hey!
I've had my Xperia S a year and a bit and i've flashed various roms with flashtools to get it rooted. Never tinkered manually and always used official roms just prerooted.
With JB I can't seem to find a prerooted JB rom that I can flash with flashtool. Could someone point me in the right direction or recommend me a rom here that will do that job?
I don't really want to change the Sony JB much, just have it rooted again so I can use titanium backup and restore aswell as remove a lot of the apps that come preinstalled and I can't get rid of, like wisepilot, foursquare, etc. I want things to be my choice
Thanks for your help

david_Vi said:
Hey!
I've had my Xperia S a year and a bit and i've flashed various roms with flashtools to get it rooted. Never tinkered manually and always used official roms just prerooted.
With JB I can't seem to find a prerooted JB rom that I can flash with flashtool. Could someone point me in the right direction or recommend me a rom here that will do that job?
I don't really want to change the Sony JB much, just have it rooted again so I can use titanium backup and restore aswell as remove a lot of the apps that come preinstalled and I can't get rid of, like wisepilot, foursquare, etc. I want things to be my choice
Thanks for your help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http :// forum. xda-developers . com/ showthread. php?t=2302631

anikesh102 said:
http :// forum. xda-developers . com/ showthread. php?t=2302631
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks but I don't believe I can use that with flashtool. I can't appear to get into recovery mode since updating to JB.

Do you have an unlocked bootloader???
If so, it's easy.
If not, then plan B.
Your answer to the above depends on the procedure to follow.

anikesh102 said:
http :// forum. xda-developers . com/ showthread. php?t=2302631
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dr Goodvibes said:
Do you have an unlocked bootloader???
If so, it's easy.
If not, then plan B.
Your answer to the above depends on the procedure to follow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not unlocked the bootloader, looked at the idea and saw the instructions and thought i'd mess it up! I've ran Sony's recovery thing on PC companion as my phone was being dodgy and I wanted it reset anyway so i'm on the latest Sony firmare.. Where do I go from here?
Cheers for your help!

david_Vi said:
Thanks but I don't believe I can use that with flashtool. I can't appear to get into recovery mode since updating to JB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http :// forum.xda-developers .com/showthread.php?t=2302569

anikesh102 said:
http :// forum.xda-developers .com/showthread.php?t=2302569
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I root from this version/guide?
Thanks

Dr Goodvibes said:
Do you have an unlocked bootloader???
If so, it's easy.
If not, then plan B.
Your answer to the above depends on the procedure to follow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I need plan B! Thanks for your help.

david_Vi said:
I guess I need plan B! Thanks for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, Plan B... You're probably not going to like it.
I believe a locked bootloader XPERIA LT26i can only be unlock in ICS and then use DooMLoRDs(or another) pre-rooted official Sony ROM to get to JB using CWM recovery.
I don't have a locked bootloader, so I'm just following a wild path that ended at the following URL.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=39498268
Have a look at it and do nothing for a while.
You may get better informed information than I'm providing in the next few posts, which could lead to a more effective path to root access on JB.
Good luck with that.
[Update]
P.S.
I see in the thread I referred you to that in the latest few posts attempts are being made to gain root access on JB. So fingers crossed if no other options came up.

Dr Goodvibes said:
Ah, Plan B... You're probably not going to like it.
I believe a locked bootloader XPERIA LT26i can only be unlock in ICS and then use DooMLoRDs(or another) pre-rooted official Sony ROM to get to JB using CWM recovery.
I don't have a locked bootloader, so I'm just following a wild path that ended at the following URL.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=39498268
Have a look at it and do nothing for a while.
You may get better informed information than I'm providing in the next few posts, which could lead to a more effective path to root access on JB.
Good luck with that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your help I appreciate your time as i'm having a crappy time with the phone haha.
Before I took at look at your link I flashed my phone a few times and remembered how I had it rooted in ICS. If I can get it rooted this way again, (I have to flash to GB then run a few .bat's and then ICS and another .bat). Is this the same as what you say? I will end up with rooted ICS then can flash the pre rooted Sony JB rom?
Thanks

david_Vi said:
Thanks for your help I appreciate your time as i'm having a crappy time with the phone haha.
Before I took at look at your link I flashed my phone a few times and remembered how I had it rooted in ICS. If I can get it rooted this way again, (I have to flash to GB then run a few .bat's and then ICS and another .bat). Is this the same as what you say? I will end up with rooted ICS then can flash the pre rooted Sony JB rom?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's my understanding at this time, BUT...
Have a look at the last few post of the thread I refereed you to, as they're attempting to gain root access on JB, which if successful, may prove a faster route. Depend on time taken to get a successful root via JB though.

Ah its all getting complicated.
Would it be easier if I just unlocked my bootloader?

david_Vi said:
Ah its all getting complicated.
Would it be easier if I just unlocked my bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Complicated, to many options???? :laugh:
To be honest, I'd not unlock the bootloader at this time.
There is some indication that you'll lose your DRM keys in the TA partition and this is mooted to impact Bravia Engine and maybe something else I think.
There is ways to backup the partition and then restore it at a later date, but to me it sounds a little like it could end in tears.
I unlocked my bootloader ages ago as that's how I roll, and I tend to tinker and install anything that's bright and shiny... which mostly means an unlocked boot loader is required.
If you can just root ICS .55 it'll be quicker than the option I took of rooting .45 and then upgrading the kernel of 55 to retain root.
It all depends on how involved you get with different Kernels and ROMs as to whether you unlock the bootloader.
To be honest, to get a good JB experience, you just need a JB ROM, rooted, bloatware removed, something like SetCPU from Google Play Store to manage battery usage with screen-off profiles and etc and that's basically it. Stamina mode, if installed, is the laypersons option to battery management.
A good Kernel like 'what' @DooMLoRD provides is always going to improve the over-all experience with added features and etc which may be the tipping point to unlock the boot loader, but I'd wait until the need was there.
Sony is to release a new firmware 6.2.B.0.211 soon which may be worth waiting with a locked bootloader for.
You can always disable any unwanted applications in the app manager to better resources.
JB is probably(I have no idea really) the end of the line for official Sony firmware on the XPERIA S (snapdragon S3) and so to go beyond JB 4.1.2 at a later date will more than likely require an unloaded bootloader. That said, you never know.
Just thought I'd throw in a few more options for you.

Thanks for your help
I think I have got it. I rooted ICS and then applied the update.zip. JB is running and Titanium backup tells me i'm rooted! Yeehaw!
So just need to remove bloatware.. Have you got any tips regarding this? I remember trying ti on ICS but broke my phone in the process, I guess I uninstalled things that were needed or something

Dr Goodvibes said:
Complicated, to many options???? :laugh:
To be honest, I'd not unlock the bootloader at this time.
There is some indication that you'll lose your DRM keys in the TA partition and this is mooted to impact Bravia Engine and maybe something else I think.
There is ways to backup the partition and then restore it at a later date, but to me it sounds a little like it could end in tears.
I unlocked my bootloader ages ago as that's how I roll, and I tend to tinker and install anything that's bright and shiny... which mostly means an unlocked boot loader is required.
If you can just root ICS .55 it'll be quicker than the option I took of rooting .45 and then upgrading the kernel of 55 to retain root.
It all depends on how involved you get with different Kernels and ROMs as to whether you unlock the bootloader.
To be honest, to get a good JB experience, you just need a JB ROM, rooted, bloatware removed, something like SetCPU from Google Play Store to manage battery usage with screen-off profiles and etc and that's basically it. Stamina mode, if installed, is the laypersons option to battery management.
A good Kernel like 'what' @DooMLoRD provides is always going to improve the over-all experience with added features and etc which may be the tipping point to unlock the boot loader, but I'd wait until the need was there.
Sony is to release a new firmware 6.2.B.0.211 soon which may be worth waiting with a locked bootloader for.
You can always disable any unwanted applications in the app manager to better resources.
JB is probably(I have no idea really) the end of the line for official Sony firmware on the XPERIA S (snapdragon S3) and so to go beyond JB 4.1.2 at a later date will more than likely require an unloaded bootloader. That said, you never know.
Just thought I'd throw in a few more options for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just one doubt, (sorry, i read the whole post.)
got the idea to root JB, but is it necessary to unlock boot loader for this to work,
because at some point we have to flash the pre-rooted kernel through CWM right? So for that the boot loader
should be unlocked also..????

bluechip850 said:
just one doubt, (sorry, i read the whole post.)
got the idea to root JB, but is it necessary to unlock boot loader for this to work,
because at some point we have to flash the pre-rooted kernel through CWM right? So for that the boot loader
should be unlocked also..????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh right. I have CWM working though, needed it for the rooted JB. I guess I can live with the apps I don't need.. unless I can still get rid of them. Titanium backup lets me uninstall such things but I guess this is dangerous?

david_Vi said:
Oh right. I have CWM working though, needed it for the rooted JB. I guess I can live with the apps I don't need.. unless I can still get rid of them. Titanium backup lets me uninstall such things but I guess this is dangerous?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude, you totally rock.
You are about to install pre-rooted, JB. Do you have your install buddy? :silly:
So, when you get to the following and can tick all the boxes, you're ready to install a pre-rooted JB ROM
[ requirements ]
BOTH LOCKED & UNLOCKED bootloader!
Previously on stock .45/.50/.55 ICS ROM or roms based on that [since baseband of the official JB ROM is same as ICS ] supplied ROM
Any existing recovery!
Then progress to the following URL and install JB ROM
[ROM] Official Sony JB 6.2.B.0.200 ROM Pre-Rooted CWM
You may lose root access directly after the install, but that can easily be restored by flashing DooMLoRDs SuperSU and Busybox zip from flash recovery after the ROM install.
Titanium backup is only dangerous in the wrong hands.
I'd start with apps like WisePilot(if you're not using it) and etc by doing a Titanium backup and then uninstall the app.
You can freeze an app too, as a first stage to later removal.
There are probably lists of safe to remove apps on an XPERIA S as the system apps are not much different to ICS 4.0.4
Just remember, don't get to busy removing system apps, as Sony firmware 6.2.B.0.211 is coming soon and you'll have to start all over again.

david_Vi said:
Thanks for your help I appreciate your time as i'm having a crappy time with the phone haha.
Before I took at look at your link I flashed my phone a few times and remembered how I had it rooted in ICS. If I can get it rooted this way again, (I have to flash to GB then run a few .bat's and then ICS and another .bat). Is this the same as what you say? I will end up with rooted ICS then can flash the pre rooted Sony JB rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
flash this kernel http :// forum.xda-developers .com/showthread.php?t=2305591 to get recovery den to root the device
then check at d bottom of the post in the link.... there is a file under How to root device. flash that in recovery...
Edited: sorry it was for unlocked bootloader. Good U got it working.

Dr Goodvibes said:
Dude, you totally rock.
You are about to install pre-rooted, JB. Do you have your install buddy? :silly:
So, when you get to the following and can tick all the boxes, you're ready to install a pre-rooted JB ROM
[ requirements ]
BOTH LOCKED & UNLOCKED bootloader!
Previously on stock .45/.50/.55 ICS ROM or roms based on that [since baseband of the official JB ROM is same as ICS ] supplied ROM
Any existing recovery!
Then progress to the following URL and install JB ROM
[ROM] Official Sony JB 6.2.B.0.200 ROM Pre-Rooted CWM
You may lose root access directly after the install, but that can easily be restored by flashing DooMLoRDs SuperSU and Busybox zip from flash recovery after the ROM install.
Titanium backup is only dangerous in the wrong hands.
I'd start with apps like WisePilot(if you're not using it) and etc by doing a Titanium backup and then uninstall the app.
You can freeze an app too, as a first stage to later removal.
There are probably lists of safe to remove apps on an XPERIA S as the system apps are not much different to ICS 4.0.4
Just remember, don't get to busy removing system apps, as Sony firmware 6.2.B.0.211 is coming soon and you'll have to start all over again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got it all running... Is that rom meant to come with games like Block Breaker and Modern Combat? I can't seem to uninstall them, they don't appear in the titanium backup list.

david_Vi said:
I got it all running... Is that rom meant to come with games like Block Breaker and Modern Combat? I can't seem to uninstall them, they don't appear in the titanium backup list.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's true, it's a stub for the game download.
You can use a file manager such as "Root Explorer" or "ES File Manager" with root access enable (i.e r/w access to system partition)
I deleted(cut and paste to /sdcard/appbackup/jb200/app folder) the apk, and it was in either of the following two folders.
/system/etc/product/applications/
/system/etc/customization/applications/
Titanium Backup is probably not looking further than /system/app

Warning: Incoming Noob - AuroraPlay v1.1.0 Install

First and foremost, I apologize for being such a noob.
I don't know what I'm doing here, since this is a place for expert developers, and I am not one.
But, I'm purchasing an Xperia Play very soon, and I ran across the AuroraPlay ROM which apparently speeds up the device a bit (Main Features - Clocked by default to 1.2GHz, Full GPU Hardware Acceleration, Boots in less than five seconds, etc.)
So, I thought, "This is really something, I should think about installing this, it'll surely make games and such a lot more fun on my Xperia Play."
I know the mere basics that anyone knows- unlocking, rooting, roms, kernels, firmware, etc.
But when it comes to getting down and actually doing something more advanced than simply rooting or unlocking a phone, I get cold feet.
What I mean by this, is I'm not completely sure how to install this ROM, and I don't want to brick my phone.
I've seen the installation instructions, though I'm still confused on some parts.
What's an Un/Locked Bootloader? How do I know if mine is un/locked?
How do I "Flash using Flashtool"? or "Root using Flashtool"?
What is X-Parts Recovery? What is ClockWorkMod? How do I use them?
At this point it may seem obvious this isn't for me, but if there is a more detailed tutorial out there for this ROM, that would be EXCELLENT! :laugh:
Again, sorry for the trouble.

Niuqorram said:
First and foremost, I apologize for being such a noob.
I don't know what I'm doing here, since this is a place for expert developers, and I am not one.
But, I'm purchasing an Xperia Play very soon, and I ran across the AuroraPlay ROM which apparently speeds up the device a bit (Main Features - Clocked by default to 1.2GHz, Full GPU Hardware Acceleration, Boots in less than five seconds, etc.)
So, I thought, "This is really something, I should think about installing this, it'll surely make games and such a lot more fun on my Xperia Play."
I know the mere basics that anyone knows- unlocking, rooting, roms, kernels, firmware, etc.
But when it comes to getting down and actually doing something more advanced than simply rooting or unlocking a phone, I get cold feet.
What I mean by this, is I'm not completely sure how to install this ROM, and I don't want to brick my phone.
I've seen the installation instructions, though I'm still confused on some parts.
What's an Un/Locked Bootloader? How do I know if mine is un/locked?
How do I "Flash using Flashtool"? or "Root using Flashtool"?
What is X-Parts Recovery? What is ClockWorkMod? How do I use them?
At this point it may seem obvious this isn't for me, but if there is a more detailed tutorial out there for this ROM, that would be EXCELLENT! :laugh:
Again, sorry for the trouble.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Un/locked bootloader is about changing kernel and u can find it with enter *#*#7378423#*#* in phone
And if u have unlocked bootloader u can flash a kernel using flashtool with going to fastboot mode(power off ur phone and hold search button then plug ur usb)
To root ur device using flashtool u should connect ur phone to computer then in flashtool click on opened lock
And x-part is an app that installing recovery for locked bootloader and with recovery u can install roms on ir phone
Sent from my R800i using xda premium

First and foremost don't think you're a noob, everyone has to begin somewhere.and I don't own an xperia play but the basics are all the same.A flashtool is a program used only to flash roms and kernels but not root your device. For rooting, there are other toolkits, most of them really simple, just plug ur phone and follow the instructions shown.as far as I know, there is no need to unlock the bootloader of ur phone as long as u flash stock based roms but to flash custom kernels and roms,u need to unlock the bootloader and the bootloader for any mobile will be LOCKED by default. Behold.. Unlocking the bootloader can only be done officially and u will forever lose warranty and some other stuff like drm keys,etc..relocking the bootloader is also possible but ur warranty still be void.clockworkmod(cwm) is a custom recovery which gives many more features than a stock recovery and is used for flashing firmwares, kernels,etc,u can see about that on YouTube cuz there are walkthroughs for almost anything.I don't know much about X-parts though.there u go.hope I helped u.hit thanks if I did.
Sent from my exquisite C6602 using xda premium.

Thanks for the replies.
By the way, is there anything I need to do with my phone before I began the installation process? The phone obviously needs to be rooted, right?
Or can it be done straight out of the box?

If u r gonna root the phone as soon as u open it,there is nothing much u need to do..download all the files beforehand and be sure to double check the model number of ur device.if u really want to flash a custom kernel,u must unlock ur bootloader and as it was said,u won't have the warranty after that.So what I suggest is u use the phone for about 2-4 days and make sure there is no defect in it,just to be sure.So happy rooting!Hit thanks if I helped.
Sent from my exquisite C6602 using xda premium.

Welcome to the forums!
When I first started rooting and flashing custom roms, the guide on the nxt rom page helped me a lot. Here-
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1649368
In the first post, follow the instructions for locked bootloader, and there is a picture guide for how to use flashtool and CWM recovery (the older version of x-parts recovery). Just replace instances of zeus_nxt2_r1.zip with the rom of your choice!
Hope I could help!

xperia play
i love this device but i want jellybean on this device ... can anyone help me out ??

Well.. If the official update has been released, u can download the file and flash it after rooting your device BUT u can also unlock the bootloader and flash a custom kernel and latest custom rom like cyanogen mod and stuff..hit thanks if I helped u in any way
Sent from my Killer Xperia Z using xda premium.

To install jelly bean you need to unlock your bootloader. The touchpads are not working very well though...
About the warranty thing, Sony says this voids your warranty, but I did it anyway a few months after I got my phone, and recently both of my cameras died (not at the same time, but I didn't care about the front camera) and they fixed them for free so maybe they still fix hardware defects (they did it for me). Of course I did re lock my bootloader before giving them my phone but they could know it since they had mY IMEI
Sent from my R800i

Sounds interesting.. They repaired ur phone for free even when they knew u had unlocked its bl?good thing that the flashtools can relock the bl..ur post knocked some confidence into me..
Sent from my Killer Xperia Z(02) using xda premium.