Is it possible to somehow change my android from ICS to custom Jelly Bean on my phone
Sony Xperia Arc S LT18i, Production date code 12W22
It came up with Android Gingerbread on board.
What i did so far is using program called Flashtool to flash my phone with stock Android ICS 4.0.4 4.1.B.0.587 (the file was called Android_4.0.4_LT18i_4.1.B.0.587.tft). This replaced branded Gingerbread with non branded stock ICS
After that i used Flashtool to flash my phone with Kernel 4.1.A.0.562 and then i used DooMLoRD_v1_Xperia-2011-ICS-ROOT tool to root my phone.
And after that i flashed it with 4.1.B.0.587 kernel.
By doing this steps i supposedly achieved root on my phone (superuser and root checking apps show full access).
Now i read about flashing with Jelly Bean custom roms and all i seen mention "bootloader"
When i open secret service menu on my phone there are two things that worry me:
- Simlock - it says my phone is provider locked
- Bootloader unlockable - NO
So this is my question, is there any way in my current situation to somehow flash my phone with android Jelly Bean? In a similar way that i used to upgrade it from gingerbread to ICS?
Hi !
In order to flash a Jelly Bean ROM on your phone, your bootloader needs to be unlocked. There is no other way.
As you said, you can't unlock it the "easy" way. Nevertheless, I think that there are other ways for you to unlock it.
You can follow this guide : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=35910775 > Bootloader and SIM Unlocking.
You should give a try to the testpoint method /!\ DO IT AT YOUR OWN RISK /!\
I never tested it myself.
If it works, you would be able to flash a custom kernel through FlashTool and flash a JB or even KitKat ROM.
Hope I helped.
Cheers.
xdlol123321 said:
Hi !
In order to flash a Jelly Bean ROM on your phone, your bootloader needs to be unlocked. There is no other way.
As you said, you can't unlock it the "easy" way. Nevertheless, I think that there are other ways for you to unlock it.
You can follow this guide : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=35910775 > Bootloader and SIM Unlocking.
You should give a try to the testpoint method /!\ DO IT AT YOUR OWN RISK /!\
I never tested it myself.
If it works, you would be able to flash a custom kernel through FlashTool and flash a JB or even KitKat ROM.
Hope I helped.
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for reply, unfortunatly it seems that this:
"If you're Phone was manufactured AFTER a certain date, 12W11 (look under your battery for a similar number) then the Testpoint method no longer works"
prevents me from using testpoint method because my production date code is date 12W22 which seems to be newer than 12W11.
Also the article mentions Two members - Alejandrissimo or Jinx13. I checked it with Jinx13 and he confirmed that there is no way for him to unlock bootloader from that production date phone, i didnt contact Alejandrissimo yet.
I dont mind paying for online/remote service, i know that experience and knowledge costs, im just looking to way for getting my bootloader unlocked.
KonradIC13 said:
Thanks for reply, unfortunatly it seems that this:
"If you're Phone was manufactured AFTER a certain date, 12W11 (look under your battery for a similar number) then the Testpoint method no longer works"
prevents me from using testpoint method because my production date code is date 12W22 which seems to be newer than 12W11.
Also the article mentions Two members - Alejandrissimo or Jinx13. I checked it with Jinx13 and he confirmed that there is no way for him to unlock bootloader from that production date phone, i didnt contact Alejandrissimo yet.
I dont mind paying for online/remote service, i know that experience and knowledge costs, im just looking to way for getting my bootloader unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are one of those unfortunate people, who can't unlock their bootloader at all due to certain restrictions.
We do not have any confirmed solution for test point method, however there is one topic in General section of Xperia Arc, where the OP claims he managed to unlock the bootloader in such situation. You can check it out, however it is your own decision, if you try it or not.
Link to the topic - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2737846
Thank you because I had the same problem too
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
Related
I need your help guys,
just got my Xperia ARC and i wanted to root it by this guide and i have a few questions:
i bought the phone from an Israeli carrier (pelephone if its matter) so in the guide i need to change the carrier firmware to the original firmware and i wander if it will void the warranty. also is there any way to change back the firmware after the change, if so then how? i searched and i couldn't find anything...
thanks ahead
The thing with Rooting a phone, is that you can root your phone and still the ¨stock¨ Arc is untouched after you have unrooted.
The flashing and rooting dont break the warranty by it self.
If you change from locked bootloader to unlocked.. The warranty is removed.
Easiest way to root is:
*Download*
3.0.A.2.181 Generic World: http://www.mediafire.com/?y9s73andrl4bllc
*Use Flashtool to Flash .181*
Flashtool: http://www.multiupload.com/7H4JT35B6G
*Use Gingerbreak after you flashed back*
http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=1044765
*After it have rebooted and active, go to settings and do a OTA over wireless.
This way you keep your Arc locked, nothing good comes from unlocking the bootloader yet.
Nepturion said:
nothing good comes from unlocking the bootloader yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's not entirely true. You've got custom ROMs being developed; over-clock kernel just released, Recovery and what not.
Unlocking the bootloader is personal choice. I may not unlock my bootloader just yet but I can't deny that with improvements being shown, it's an increasingly tempting option. LOL!
i have a play, its android 2.3.4, build 4.0.2.A.0.42, baseband 8x55A-AAABQMAZM-203028D-56, model r800a, rogers is original provider, not unlocked, currently rooted, and service menu says i cannot unlock bootloader,
i want to use cm rom, thats it, dont care about anything else, might want to try the ics leak, but i am not sure at all if i can or where to start,
i started with root, and thats as far as i can figure out...
any advice will be awesome
Well you'd better start off by unlocking your bootloader. Can't have CM otherwise
i was under impression that there is no free method to bootloader unlock a branded, sim locked to rogers r800a on 2.3.4
im already rooted with cwm recovery installed,
but not bootloader unlock
Not free, no, but that's the only way you'd get CM. Sorry
whats currently the cheapest paid method, as im on very tight budget right now
Well you can do a "test point" unlock by contacting Alejandrissimo. He helps people do the unlock remotely, but the program that's used needs 20 or 25 bucks (I forget which) for the unlock credit.
ive tried pm'ing him, but no reply, is there anyone else that can do it for cheap ?
Try Jinx13, hes active and does it for 15GBP or $24US.
Check his profile for his email.
I'm gonna bump this thread, I'm on the same firmware and baseband as the OP. I did contact the first guy mentioned and its 24 USD. Is it not possible to flash to generic firmware with Flashtool and then continue to unlock the bootloader ? I have Root and Sim Unlocked. Thanks
Did you look at Sony's bootloader unlocking method? If you do the service menu check and it says Bootloader Unlock: No, then you'll have to pay. Flashing to any firmware won't make unlocking methods any different.
Okay thanks.
djowett said:
I'm gonna bump this thread, I'm on the same firmware and baseband as the OP. I did contact the first guy mentioned and its 24 USD. Is it not possible to flash to generic firmware with Flashtool and then continue to unlock the bootloader ? I have Root and Sim Unlocked. Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash any firmware using flash tool. Download cwm from the market you will have more options. The only way to unlock the boot loader is to pay!!!
You could buy some Omnius credits and do the unlocking yourself without any remote assistance.
The price is probably around the same, maybe a bit less.
here's the site
That's what I used, but I got it for free during an Easter weekend promo.
I have a UK Xperia Play on .42 firmware with CWM recovery and root provided by Zerg Rush.
I've heard that I need .62 to install some of the custom firmwares.
.42 appears to be the latest firmware I can get OTA. I'm not sure the best way to upgrade to .62, do I need to go via .58 or similar.
Does it matter that I have a UK phone?
Is it possible to preserve my settings?
Will I need to re-root at any time?
In the long run I am looking to install DooMKerneL and probably something like Jokawild.
You have to flash the ftf file for your phone
Here is a link to 99% of them
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1589399
If you install a new firmwares. Maybe you'll need to root it again..
But since the devs makes the pre-rooted custom ROMs, you don't need to root it anymore
Sent using xda premium from my customized Xperia™ PLAY r800i
I don't have an unlocked bootloader. Is this required to install a custom ROM even if I have root?
Is there any disadvantage to unlocking the bootloader?
kirby2000 said:
I don't have an unlocked bootloader. Is this required to install a custom ROM even if I have root?
Is there any disadvantage to unlocking the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No unlocked bootloader = no custom kernels/ very limited to roms
Only disadvantage is it voids your warranty, but being that you have root, you have no warranty anyway lol
I was in the same position as you. I wanted to get a custom ROM and be able to overclock my phone. After a few annoying errors, I finally got it up and running
Basically, your going to have get your phone into flashmode and then flash the .62.ftf file on your phone. Congratualtions you now have .62FW (although youve lost root).
To get root on .62 FW, your going to have to flash a custom kernel (I did DoomKernel v14). To flash a kernel, your going to have to unlock your bootloader. After unlocking and flashing the kernal, your phone is now rooted.
And plus the positive side Ive heard is that you CANNOT brick your sony eircsson phone. (well you probably could but there is a very very slim chance of that happening).
Thanks.
It seems I can't unlock via the regular Sony way as Unlock Bootloader is set to no.
I think I need S1Tool or something similar (maybe something I have to pay for) to get my bootloader unlocked. I'll check the forums a bit before I ask any questions that haven't been asked before
i did it via omnius and it work great, i just payed 19.76 for one single unlock credit on gsmserver
not sure why people say that root voids warranty.
i have ATT play 4g and it was having hardware issues, so i flashed the stock ATT software back and took it to the store. i got a "new" one in the mail two days ago.
I also sent my rooted xperia play that had the slider broken to CLARO El Salvador and they repaired it (They flashed their ROM again XD)
Now i have unlocked bootloader but who cares i have premium insurance
Any modification to the software voids the warranty..
Update:
I downloaded s1tool and connected the test point to the ground. Everything seems to have worked so I am guessing my bootloader is unlocked. Is there anyway I can verify this, or should I just attempt to install a kernel?
kirby2000 said:
Update:
I downloaded s1tool and connected the test point to the ground. Everything seems to have worked so I am guessing my bootloader is unlocked. Is there anyway I can verify this, or should I just attempt to install a kernel?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try to put the phone in flash mode (green light) if it recognizes it, it's unlocked. I think there is a sequence or symbols/numbers you can do to check it, but idk what that is since im a r800x
To check your unlocked bootloader you need to dial: *#*#7378423#*#* , then go under, Service info > Configuration > Bootloader unlock allowed: Yes/No.
Hi all,
I have read many threads on this page, and developers pages, however, it seems quite difficult to unlock this O2 LT15i so I can install ICS.
I have tired and failed.
Is there anyone that might be able to spend a little time talking me through the steps to do so.
I just wish this phone was unlocked as if it was, it appears simpler.
PLEASE can anyone help, or suggest a step by step guide. (for novices like me) that really want the phone working well, but arent 100% clued up on all the softwares.
I understand the process of installing ICS to phones, as I have done so with my HTC HD2 (workked very well in under an hour). but this LT15i is something else!!!
Please help.
(sorry if this has been posted before, but I have honestly tried howevver, the guides I used have missing links, or trojans in the downloads
Kind regards
P
forgot to mention Bootloader unlock allowed says NO.
Whats my first step?
I follow all the other guides and they all have yes as the answer....
XperienceD said:
Bootloader & SIM Unlocking:
PLEASE NOTE: The ONLY WAY to Sim Unlock your Phone is to PAY for it, so do some Googling and read which services have been recommended in the past.
PLEASE ALSO NOTE:
If you're Phone was manufactured AFTER a certain date, 12W11 (look under your battery for a similar number) then the Testpoint method no longer works, and People who have had Phones returned from a Service Centre are reporting that they can no longer unlock via the Testpoint method either.
- Know Your Android Bootloader - What it is and Why it Matters
There are three ways to Unlock yours, the Standard/Official method (For SimFree/Un-Branded Phones) which is explained HERE, (PLEASE NOTE! - You loose DRM when using the official method but not with the TestPoint) but if your Phone came from a Carrier then chances are (99%) you won't be able to use that method. There is a simple method of checking if you can or not which you'll find HERE.
Standard Unlocking:
Then there is the TestPoint method...
TestPoint Unlocking:
Two members - Alejandrissimo or Jinx13 offer a Remote Service which isn't free, but cheaper than anywhere else on the net, and when you take in to account you will also SIM Unlock and retain DRM using the Remote method it's worth it.
References:
[Tutorial] Relock bootloader!
SE Bootloader Unlocking v1.6
[Tutorial] Unlock Bootloader.Test Point | For Newbs
[Tutorial] Xperia S/P/U/Sola Bootloader Unlocking & Relocking
[REF]Booting/Unlocking Xperia 2011 series: What's under the hood?
[Guide] Unlocking bootloader on operator branded phones via Omnius
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
..
KurtStudent said:
Hi all,
I have read many threads on this page, and developers pages, however, it seems quite difficult to unlock this O2 LT15i so I can install ICS.
I have tired and failed.
Is there anyone that might be able to spend a little time talking me through the steps to do so.
I just wish this phone was unlocked as if it was, it appears simpler.
PLEASE can anyone help, or suggest a step by step guide. (for novices like me) that really want the phone working well, but arent 100% clued up on all the softwares.
I understand the process of installing ICS to phones, as I have done so with my HTC HD2 (workked very well in under an hour). but this LT15i is something else!!!
Please help.
(sorry if this has been posted before, but I have honestly tried howevver, the guides I used have missing links, or trojans in the downloads
Kind regards
P
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey buddy, you don't need to unlock your boot loader before you install a custom ROM or upgrade your phone to a custom firmware, all you need is to get rooted and download the ful ROM, then with the help of flashtool, your done. Am currently running a custom ROM (viper xperia) which is blazingly fast and lovely UI with my Lt15i locked bootloader.
I'll make it short:
1. Since you have to provide your IMEI number on the sonymobile website, i guess that even if you relock your bootloader later, sony will know that you have already void your warranty and you will permanently lose your warranty. Is this correct?
2. Can "locked bootloader" roms be flashed on phone with unlock bootloader. I know it's a silly question but i didn't want to open a new thread for just one question
3. Any benefit of unlocking the bootloader over flashing roms with locked bootloader?
4. Is it worth playing with roms on this device at all, since jelly bean is just around the corner? I know that official firmware is always bad and that the custom ones are modified well. I'm fed up of the lag my phone has, every time i pull my notification bar...i'm on official firmware and i'm using build.prop tweaks but they're not helping much.
SONY Says unlocking Bootloader may void it's warranty.
Well see, this is how it works in my country. Upon unlocking bootloader i loose my warranty. But the warranty for any hardware damage is still valid here. Which means with a unlocked bootloader i will not get warranty if my phone gets bricked by any Custom ROM/MOD try out or Software related issue.
But let's say, the screen isn't working or the speaker isn't working, then i might get a replacement for this type of hardware damage. Only parts replacement.
But yes this may not same for all region. Or may be the SONY service center people here are little too kind
But yes, they can check the bootloader unlocking status easily, if i am not mistaken, cause one of the SONY Forum moderator told me so.
Lastly, Playing with the ROM actually Depends on you, some likes custom ROMS and some like Stock ROM.
But since the JB update is just doorstep ahead, so i would say, you wait for it. Do not unlock it now.
shad0wboss said:
I'll make it short:
1. Since you have to provide your IMEI number on the sonymobile website, i guess that even if you relock your bootloader later, sony will know that you have already void your warranty and you will permanently lose your warranty. Is this correct?
2. Can "locked bootloader" roms be flashed on phone with unlock bootloader. I know it's a silly question but i didn't want to open a new thread for just one question
3. Any benefit of unlocking the bootloader over flashing roms with locked bootloader?
4. Is it worth playing with roms on this device at all, since jelly bean is just around the corner? I know that official firmware is always bad and that the custom ones are modified well. I'm fed up of the lag my phone has, every time i pull my notification bar...i'm on official firmware and i'm using build.prop tweaks but they're not helping much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes they usually check but it depends on your country too. In my country I got my phone's screen replacement done within the warranty after unlocking my boot loader.
2. Yes you can flash any ROM for Xperia S.
3. Main advantage is that you can flash custom kernels ( even ROMs like Cm, slimbean etc.)
4. Absolutely. You can still enjoy official JB even after unlocking your boot loader.
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app