How important is S-OFF for an unbranded phone? - HTC 10 Questions & Answers

I'm preparing to unlock/root my 10 and if I'm going to go S-OFF this would be the time to do it. I'm just trying to figure out how necessary it really is. Since my phone's CID is presumably something like HTC_001, that should be included in any OEM firmware updates that are released, right? Assuming the signed firmware updates are posted here when they are released, I can just flash them without issue as far as I understand it. So, why would I need to S-OFF if I'm on an unbranded device?

I believe, and someone correct me if I'm wrong, but one of the biggest advantages of S-Off'ing is being able to flash ROMs that can take more control over the ecosystem. You get more control over your phone basically. As long as you're smart about what you flash/install to your device, there's not really any downside as long as you're okay dropping the $25 for sunshine.

So some ROMs have features that require S-OFF? As far as I know, just being unlocked and rooted will allow you to fully take advantage of LeeDroid, for instance. I thought S-OFF just applied to flashing firmware.

goodtimes50 said:
So some ROMs have features that require S-OFF? As far as I know, just being unlocked and rooted will allow you to fully take advantage of LeeDroid, for instance. I thought S-OFF just applied to flashing firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct rom-wise there is no real advantage. Everything will work flawlessly with s-on.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1868181
http://www.androidbeat.com/2014/07/s-htc-device-mean/

The things you can't do without S-Off are:
*flash unsigned firmware packages
*flash firmware packages that don't match CID/MID
*flash RUUs that don't match CID/MID
*change CID/MID
*restore "locked" status (without you can only get "relocked" status)
*restore "software status: official" flag in bootloader (flag sets to "software status: modified" if you flash anything)
Want a custom splash screen? Need S-Off.
Want to get rid of the red text warning during boot? Need S-Off.
Want to flash a different radio? Need S-Off.
What you can do without S-Off:
*unlock bootloader (via HTCdev)
*flash recovery
*root (via superSU package or your favorite custom ROM)
*flash ROMs

Nosferatu. said:
Want a custom splash screen? Need S-Off.
Want to get rid of the red text warning during boot? Need S-Off.
Want to flash a different radio? Need S-Off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure looks like a quote from a post I made a while ago ) Not sure if this is entirely accurate for HTC 10 either, I'm definitely not hex-editing the aboot before I know it's safe to do so.

Nosferatu. said:
The things you can't do without S-Off are:
*flash unsigned firmware packages
*flash firmware packages that don't match CID/MID
*flash RUUs that don't match CID/MID
*change CID/MID
*restore "locked" status (without you can only get "relocked" status)
*restore "software status: official" flag in bootloader (flag sets to "software status: modified" if you flash anything)
Want a custom splash screen? Need S-Off.
Want to get rid of the red text warning during boot? Need S-Off.
Want to flash a different radio? Need S-Off.
What you can do without S-Off:
*unlock bootloader (via HTCdev)
*flash recovery
*root (via superSU package or your favorite custom ROM)
*flash ROMs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, this mixing of terminology is killing me
Isn't ROM and Firmware the same thing? If not then could you define both? I'm asking because to me those 2:
"flash unsigned firmware packages"
"flash ROMs"
look the same, no? Or by "firmware packages" you mean the images that are inside the zip package, like boot.img, recovery.img etc? But if so, then how can I flash the custom recovery (like TWRP) which I assume is not signed if I don't have S-off?

lukair1983 said:
Hey, this mixing of terminology is killing me
Isn't ROM and Firmware the same thing? If not then could you define both? I'm asking because to me those 2:
"flash unsigned firmware packages"
"flash ROMs"
look the same, no? Or by "firmware packages" you mean the images that are inside the zip package, like boot.img, recovery.img etc? But if so, then how can I flash the custom recovery (like TWRP) which I assume is not signed if I don't have S-off?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, they're not the same. Think of the firmware as the level between the software (recovery/ROM) and the physical hardware. Firmware contains stuff like radios, CPU governors, camera drivers, etc.

I see. So when people receive OTA's they receive firmware ALONG with other stuff (boot, recovery, system images etc.) ?

lukair1983 said:
I see. So when people receive OTA's they receive firmware ALONG with other stuff (boot, recovery, system images etc.) ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's correct.

I see.
Alright, so to check on that I've downloaded one of the OTA's in the "[STOCK] Guides and Stock Backups/Recovery/OTA/RUU" thread and indeed there is firmware.zip inside. I assume that's what you guys meant. However I don't see there any boot.img, recovery.img etc. What am I missing here in my understanding?

Nosferatu. said:
The things you can't do without S-Off are:
*flash unsigned firmware packages
*flash firmware packages that don't match CID/MID
*flash RUUs that don't match CID/MID
*change CID/MID
*restore "locked" status (without you can only get "relocked" status)
*restore "software status: official" flag in bootloader (flag sets to "software status: modified" if you flash anything)
Want a custom splash screen? Need S-Off.
Want to get rid of the red text warning during boot? Need S-Off.
Want to flash a different radio? Need S-Off.
What you can do without S-Off:
*unlock bootloader (via HTCdev)
*flash recovery
*root (via superSU package or your favorite custom ROM)
*flash ROMs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This...
Except I haven't noticed red text on boot with this device.
Where you're going to really want s-off, is when Android N is released and you've got a carrier branded phone. Usually new Android versions require updated firmware to operate properly. If you're s-off, you can flash the first firmware that's available for the device. If not, you're stuck waiting for your carrier to update you. Real world example... AT&T JUST released marshmallow last week for the M9. With s-off, I've been on 6 since December. Otherwise I would have been stuck on lollipop.
To a slightly lesser degree is when HTC releases a major upgrade within an Android version. For example, there will probably be a 2.xx.xxx.x release that's still marshmallow. You could face issues trying to run a new base rom on older firmware, but sometimes it works fine. Having said that, you can always stay on the custom rom that's built on your base. Rom developers leave older versions available so you can find one that matches your device.
Basically, in a nut shell, s-on, you're tied to your carrier for firmware updates. S-off you're not.
---------- Post added at 09:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:13 AM ----------
lukair1983 said:
I see.
Alright, so to check on that I've downloaded one of the OTA's in the "[STOCK] Guides and Stock Backups/Recovery/OTA/RUU" thread and indeed there is firmware.zip inside. I assume that's what you guys meant. However I don't see there any boot.img, recovery.img etc. What am I missing here in my understanding?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those are inside firmware.zip.
Here is a link to the unsigned firmware.zip for us unlocked.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8OH6sFjVE1ld1ptNTFEaEc3Rms/view?usp=drivesdk
Firmware was 80 something MB, entire ota was over 400, so there was a lot that was updated besides firmware.

Or, have the unbranded, unlocked version from HTC and not have to worry about too much.
Sent from my HTC 10 using XDA-Developers mobile app

jollywhitefoot said:
This...
Except I haven't noticed red text on boot with this device.
Where you're going to really want s-off, is when Android N is released and you've got a carrier branded phone. Usually new Android versions require updated firmware to operate properly. If you're s-off, you can flash the first firmware that's available for the device. If not, you're stuck waiting for your carrier to update you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
jollywhitefoot, what if you have unlocked phone bought direcly from htc? I assume at this point there will be no problem with Android N while being at the same time s-on, correct? (taking into account being unlocked and rooted and having custom recovery)
jollywhitefoot said:
Those are inside firmware.zip.
Here is a link to the unsigned firmware.zip for us unlocked.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8OH6sFjVE1ld1ptNTFEaEc3Rms/view?usp=drivesdk
Firmware was 80 something MB, entire ota was over 400, so there was a lot that was updated besides firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for the image!
So, the thing that goodtimes50 said was not correct? Talking about a phrase: "No, they're not the same. Think of the firmware as the level between the software (recovery/ROM) and the physical hardware. Firmware contains stuff like radios, CPU governors, camera drivers, etc.". If the firmware contains the recovery, and clearly your image shows that, then the "firmware" can't be a bridge or a level between those things that goodtimes50 mentioned.
So would it be accurate if I said that firmware contains everything that doesn't have to do directly with the OS itself? Meaning, that when I say "ROM" I would think of a system image (being OS), maybe the data image as some additional applications etc?
The terminology is just crazy, somebody must do an encyclopedia for the Android terminology!

lukair1983 said:
jollywhitefoot, what if you have unlocked phone bought direcly from htc? I assume at this point there will be no problem with Android N while being at the same time s-on, correct? (taking into account being unlocked and rooted and having custom recovery)
Thanks a lot for the image!
So, the thing that goodtimes50 said was not correct? Talking about a phrase: "No, they're not the same. Think of the firmware as the level between the software (recovery/ROM) and the physical hardware. Firmware contains stuff like radios, CPU governors, camera drivers, etc.". If the firmware contains the recovery, and clearly your image shows that, then the "firmware" can't be a bridge or a level between those things that goodtimes50 mentioned.
So would it be accurate if I said that firmware contains everything that doesn't have to do directly with the OS itself? Meaning, that when I say "ROM" I would think of a system image (being OS), maybe the data image as some additional applications etc?
The terminology is just crazy, somebody must do an encyclopedia for the Android terminology!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he said is correct and what you said is correct. Recovery and boot are always included in firmware packages but technically they're not firmware files.
As for us unlocked, you get updates directly from HTC, so you're not waiting for a carrier. The US unlocked version isn't always the first to get updated, though. A lot of times Europe and Asia get the update first.

Good thing I'm not in US then
(Just kidding I know it has to do with the phone version not a location)
Thanks a lot jollywhitefoot. I'm getting closer to grasping the whole HTC ecosystem. The last stop would be to understand what I will have to do to update my OS when next OTA's start appearing as I intend to unlock bootloader, flash TWRP and flash SU so that I get root. I do however intend to keep the s-on. From what I read s-off really is mostly used to change the cid, as almost everything else can be done with s-on (aside from messing with radio or splash screens but I don't care about that). Besides that s-on is more secure than s-off as I will not be able to brick my phone that way no matter what I do.
From my understanding I won't be able to update with OTA that easly afterwards. Well, I don't mind a bit of a hassle as long as I keep my OS setup, my apps, their settings and my data on internal storage. Is it possible that there will be a flashable zip's made by the scene that will do basicaly the same as the OTA, but I will not have to restore stock recovery, formware, flash the OTA, then reflash the TWRP as well as reroot or it's simply impossible to do and the "hassle thing" is unavoidable?

lukair1983 said:
jollywhitefoot, what if you have unlocked phone bought direcly from htc? I assume at this point there will be no problem with Android N while being at the same time s-on, correct? (taking into account being unlocked and rooted and having custom recovery)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's basically what I'm trying to figure out. For an unbranded phone, wouldn't the signed firmware files get posted here as soon as they're available and we can just flash away?

lukair1983 said:
Is it possible that there will be a flashable zip's made by the scene that will do basicaly the same as the OTA, but I will not have to restore stock recovery, formware, flash the OTA, then reflash the TWRP as well as reroot or it's simply impossible to do and the "hassle thing" is unavoidable?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you're S-OFF, yes. Otherwise, no.

Captain_Throwback said:
If you're S-OFF, yes. Otherwise, no.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that because when unlocked and s-on the only partitions I can modify are system, boot and recovery while the complete rom/ota might also contain other stuff like bootloader, radio, other firmare things etc. and those I will not be able to flash even in fastboot? Is that the reason?

Related

Bootloader Unlock Question

Ok, so I have recently switched to a HTC One M8 and I am puzzled by a few things regarding unlocking the bootloader and flashing ROMs. Coming from a Samsung Galaxy s4 I have never really needed to worry about unlocking my bootloader. I have looked up on the subject and have found that with unlocking the bootloader using HTCdev you have to flash boot.img everytime after flasing a ROM on the HTC One. Does this also apply to the HTC One m8 ? If so does anybody have a better means of unlocking the bootloader without needing to do this after every ROM flash.
JJGLive said:
Ok, so I have recently switched to a HTC One M8 and I am puzzled by a few things regarding unlocking the bootloader and flashing ROMs. Coming from a Samsung Galaxy s4 I have never really needed to worry about unlocking my bootloader. I have looked up on the subject and have found that with unlocking the bootloader using HTCdev you have to flash boot.img everytime after flasing a ROM on the HTC One. Does this also apply to the HTC One m8 ? If so does anybody have a better means of unlocking the bootloader without needing to do this after every ROM flash.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't have to replace hboot unless you want to get rid of certain firmware messages, like the tampered flag. Unless you are sending your phone in for warranty work, you won't likely care about it, since you only see it in fastboot/hboot mode. The only thing the token does, besides unlock the boot loader, is remove certain preloaded apps, like the flashlight, which will screw up further OTA updates.
However, I would suggest you look into going S-off, as it makes locking/unlocking the boot loader possible without contacting HTC at all, and without messing up OTA updates. You also gain the freedom to change your CID (if you ever want to convert to stock Developer Edition), SIM unlock, and revert to older firmware if necessary (such as restoring an older RUU to go back to stock) However, S-off is "security off", so there is an increased chance of bricking the phone if you aren't careful.
Ok so what i understand is: To install a custom rom I first have to get s-off, then unlock bootloader, root and install custom recovery and I am good to go? Please help me if I have missed anything.
I am used to flashing a rom every week on my Samsung. This is why I am so worried that I might do something wrong.
Edit: I have also found this link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2265618 please tell me if it is the correct way to do it.
JJGLive said:
Ok so what i understand is: To install a custom rom I first have to get s-off, then unlock bootloader, root and install custom recovery and I am good to go? Please help me if I have missed anything.
I am used to flashing a rom every week on my Samsung. This is why I am so worried that I might do something wrong.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would suggest you use this guide.
Im going to use it this friday to root my phone.
Ok so if I understand correctly now...using that guide I will not need to use htcdev and it will not be neccesary for me to flash boot.img after every rom flash?
JJGLive said:
Ok so what i understand is: To install a custom rom I first have to get s-off, then unlock bootloader, root and install custom recovery and I am good to go? Please help me if I have missed anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not quite. To flash a custom ROM, all you need to do is unlock the bootloader, install custom recovery, and flash a ROM. In addition, I highly recommend you make a nandroid backup before flashing anything
S-off is only needed if you want to avoid the bootloader unlocking method via HTCDev.com (and HTC therefore having a record of you unlocking by IMEI); or to flash hboot, radio, firmware, or a few other things (such as SIM unlock). S-off is not needed to flash a ROM.
One caveat, if your phone presently has older firmware, you will experience some severe bugs on any Sense 2.x based ROM (long boot times, broken WiFi or Bluetooth) and having S-off is required to manually update the firmware. So, while in literal terms, S-off is not needed to flash a ROM. But if the above applies to you, you need s-off to manually update the firmware and get the ROM to work correctly. Alternately, you can OTA to the latest firmware before modding the phone. You will need to list your phone's hboot and present software version for us to tell you what firmware you are on.
Also, its not necessary to root before flashing a custom ROM. You will be rooted after you flash a custom ROM.
JJGLive said:
Edit: I have also found this link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2265618 please tell me if it is the correct way to do it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely not correct. That guide is for the M7. Be careful what device forum section you are in, and stay in the M8 section.
Hell, I feel like a noob again. Ok so no boot.img flash after flashing a rom is needed.
JJGLive said:
Hell, I feel like a noob again. Ok so no boot.img flash after flashing a rom is needed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, not needed. Boot.img will flash automatically along with the ROM. Don't assume that anything on the M7 applies to the M8. These things change as the hardware changes, and every device has its own subtle differences.
redpoint73 said:
Nope, not needed. Boot.img will flash automatically along with the ROM. Don't assume that anything on the M7 applies to the M8. These things change as the hardware changes, and every device has its own subtle differences.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much...this also applies if I use the htcdev unlock. Still no boot.img then?
JJGLive said:
Thank you so much...this also applies if I use the htcdev unlock. Still no boot.img then?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct, no need to flash boot.img separately when flashing ROMs, if you unlock the bootloader via HTCDev.com (or by the S-off way).
redpoint73 said:
Correct, no need to flash boot.img separately when flashing ROMs, if you unlock the bootloader via HTCDev.com (or by the S-off way).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much...I feel much more welcome in the htc one m8 thread than I did when I first started on the samsung s4 thread. You have made me feel very welcome!
Thankfully we have freegee for LG OG. Bootloader is really dangerous please keep in mind before you go for any tutorials

[Q] No WiFi

So long story short, I messed up and wiped my OS off my phone via TRWP. After reinstalling and looking/asking around on the forums, I managed to reinstall it, but the WiFi is no longer working. Then after some more looking/asking, I gave up and sent in to a store for repairs. It came back and the guy said he couldn't do anything to fix it.
So... now I'm here asking again. Does anyone have any idea how to fix this?
Here's an image of my bootloader
http://imgur.com/SswEXd2
As you can see, the OS- is blank. I'm not sure if that's normal or not, but I'm 99% sure that there's supposed to be some code following OS-
You likely flashed a ROM that is a different version from what you had before, and does not match your firmware (hboot, radio, WiFi, etc. - modules that do NOT get updated when you flash a ROM).
Your hboot goes with Android 4.4.3, or software number 2.x. So flash a stock or custom ROM based on software 2.x, and WiFi should work again.
You likely flashed a ROM based on Android 4.4.4 or 5.0, and therefore no WiFi.
And no OS number listed on hboot screen is a common bug found on older TWRP versions.
Which ROM do you recommend?
Xenosaki said:
Which ROM do you recommend?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most custom Sense ROMs based on software 2.xx should work.
You might also be able to use 1.xx software based ROMs, as well. Firmware is usually "backwards compatible" (with older ROMs) but never forwards compatible.
Also, next time make a backup of your stock ROM. One of the great things you can do once you have TWRP installed.
redpoint73 said:
Most custom Sense ROMs based on software 2.xx should work.
You might also be able to use 1.xx software based ROMs, as well. Firmware is usually "backwards compatible" (with older ROMs) but never forwards compatible.
Also, next time make a backup of your stock ROM. One of the great things you can do once you have TWRP installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm looking for a 2.xx rom right now.
Also, another question, could I update the firmware without flashing the ROM first? Or do I need to do that prior to updating the firmware?
EDIT: I'm unable to find a sense 2.xx for the HTC ONE M8. Or does the phone type not matter as long as it's a sense 2.xx?
What's your device CID & MID ?
ckpv5 said:
What's your device CID & MID ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How would I go about finding it?
Xenosaki said:
I'm looking for a 2.xx rom right now.
Also, another question, could I update the firmware without flashing the ROM first? Or do I need to do that prior to updating the firmware?
EDIT: I'm unable to find a sense 2.xx for the HTC ONE M8. Or does the phone type not matter as long as it's a sense 2.xx?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. You want to update the firmware first. You should also update your recovery before flashing the new firmware. Then your OS won't be blank anymore (after you flash new firmware).
If you want a 2.xx based ROM,. you could try ViperOneM8 2.5.0
It's a solid Sense based ROM with a lot of customization options.
---------- Post added at 05:12 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:08 PM ----------
Xenosaki said:
How would I go about finding it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Find it by hooking up to your PC, getting into ADB/fastboot and entering fastboot getvar all
The CID is listed as CID
The MID is listed as modelid
Xenosaki said:
I'm looking for a 2.xx rom right now.
Also, another question, could I update the firmware without flashing the ROM first? Or do I need to do that prior to updating the firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're talking about 2 different approaches now. You can either:
1) Flash a ROM that is supported by your (2.xx) firmware.
2) Update the firmware that matches your current ROM (but not sure what version that would be).
You don't need to do both (flash new firmware and flash a 2.xx ROM). Although you can, as long the ROM is supported by the firmware (otherwise you will still have broken WiFi and possibly other severe bugs).
Also, keep in mind that if you are s-on, you can only flash a firmware that is signed and corresponds with your CID.
Xenosaki said:
I'm looking for a 2.xx rom right now.
EDIT: I'm unable to find a sense 2.xx for the HTC ONE M8. Or does the phone type not matter as long as it's a sense 2.xx?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It absolutely matters. NEVER EVER EVER flash a ROM meant for another device. If you are s-on, it probably won't flash anyway. But if it does, it either won't work, or may even brick your device.
You likely just didn't browse back far enough (or didn't use the proper search string, if you used the XDA search function) to find a 2.xx based ROM for the M8. ROM base 2.xx is pretty old, so I see a couple started on Page 5 of 7 in the M8 Development section. What I see are:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2702765
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2794008
redpoint73 said:
You're talking about 2 different approaches now. You can either:
1) Flash a ROM that is supported by your (2.xx) firmware.
2) Update the firmware that matches your current ROM (but not sure what version that would be).
You don't need to do both (flash new firmware and flash a 2.xx ROM). Although you can, as long the ROM is supported by the firmware (otherwise you will still have broken WiFi and possibly other severe bugs).
Also, keep in mind that if you are s-on, you can only flash a firmware that is signed and corresponds with your CID.
It absolutely matters. NEVER EVER EVER flash a ROM meant for another device. If you are s-on, it probably won't flash anyway. But if it does, it either won't work, or may even brick your device.
You likely just didn't browse back far enough (or didn't use the proper search string, if you used the XDA search function) to find a 2.xx based ROM for the M8. ROM base 2.xx is pretty old, so I see a couple started on Page 5 of 7 in the M8 Development section. What I see are:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2702765
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2794008
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry if I'm asking too many questions. If I go with the updating the firmware route first, do I have to do anything specific? Like for example update from 2.x.x -> 5.0. Or does it not matter what version I'm currently on to update to 5.0. Also, I'm seeing a lot of issues concerning which carrier the phone is from. Is there a way to check that? I *think* mine might be some asian branded version, but I'm unsure.
Also, I'm checking the phone's firmware and it's saying that it's 4.4.4. http://imgur.com/rbLpjl1
All the pic info you provided not really can give proper help.
I'm asking again, maybe for the last time .. what's your device CID & MID ?
Xenosaki said:
Sorry if I'm asking too many questions. If I go with the updating the firmware route first, do I have to do anything specific? Like for example update from 2.x.x -> 5.0. Or does it not matter what version I'm currently on to update to 5.0. Also, I'm seeing a lot of issues concerning which carrier the phone is from. Is there a way to check that? I *think* mine might be some asian branded version, but I'm unsure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It absolutely matters what firmware you pick and whether or not it corresponds to your CID. For one thing, with s-on, you can only flash the firmware for your CID, plus the firmware has to be signed.
Another thing, the firmware will update your radio baseband version. So if you flash firmware for a different CID, you may change the band support, and find you no longer have 3G or 4G connection (depending on what firmware you flash, what bands used by your local carrier, etc.).
Also, don't confuse software version with Android version (you've mixed the 2 together above). The Android version is Google's numbering scheme. Software number is HTC's numbering scheme.
Software version 2.xx corresponds to Android version 4.4.3.
Android version 5.0 (Lollipop) corresponds to software version 4.xx.
Its been requested a couple times now that you do adb getvar all to determine your CID and MID. We can't help if you are guessing or don't know the carrier version.
Xenosaki said:
Also, I'm checking the phone's firmware and it's saying that it's 4.4.4. http://imgur.com/rbLpjl1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The photo has nothing to do with your firmware number. The firmware number is best determined with adb getvar all, and is displayed as "main version".
What your picture shows simply means the ROM you flashed is based on Android 4.4.4, and software 3.28.401. The software number of the ROM is completely different from your present firmware number; and the very reason why your WiFi is broken.
I've already determined from the pic in your first post that your firmware is 2.xx (corresponding to Android 4.4.3). To get the more specific numbers (after the "2") you need to do adb getvar all.
Also, if you post the getvar output, be sure to delete your IMEI and serial number, as these are private info.
ckpv5 said:
All the pic info you provided not really can give proper help.
I'm asking again, maybe for the last time .. what's your device CID & MID ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
redpoint73 said:
It absolutely matters what firmware you pick and whether or not it corresponds to your CID. For one thing, with s-on, you can only flash the firmware for your CID, plus the firmware has to be signed.
Another thing, the firmware will update your radio baseband version. So if you flash firmware for a different CID, you may change the band support, and find you no longer have 3G or 4G connection (depending on what firmware you flash, what bands used by your local carrier, etc.).
Also, don't confuse software version with Android version (you've mixed the 2 together above). The Android version is Google's numbering scheme. Software number is HTC's numbering scheme.
Software version 2.xx corresponds to Android version 4.4.3.
Android version 5.0 (Lollipop) corresponds to software version 4.xx.
Its been requested a couple times now that you do adb getvar all to determine your CID and MID. We can't help if you are guessing or don't know the carrier version.
The photo has nothing to do with your firmware number. The firmware number is best determined with adb getvar all, and is displayed as "main version".
What your picture shows simply means the ROM you flashed is based on Android 4.4.4, and software 3.28.401. The software number of the ROM is completely different from your present firmware number; and the very reason why your WiFi is broken.
I've already determined from the pic in your first post that your firmware is 2.xx (corresponding to Android 4.4.3). To get the more specific numbers (after the "2") you need to do adb getvar all.
Also, if you post the getvar output, be sure to delete your IMEI and serial number, as these are private info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure if I got the right ones, but here you go. Let me know if I didn't do it right.
http://imgur.com/a/C8hcK#0
The first picture is getting the CID and MID by following some guide off of google, so I don't know if that's right or not.
The second and third picture are the adb getvar all that you suggested me doing.
See ... you're on T-Mobile network but your device is not a TMOB and not a EU but a TW device.
CID HTC__621
MID 0P6B11000
This is my suggestion to fix whatever problem you have currently (without S-Off).
1. Restore 2.22.709.3 TWRP backup as your device hboot is 3.18.0000
2. install 2.22.709.3 stock recovery after restore
3. do multiple OTA to the latest lollipop version : 2.22.709.3 --> 3.28.709.6 --> 4.16.709.9 --> 4.24.709.2
4. Then if you like to install custom ROM, install TWRP again and install any custom ROM that you like - now you should not have any wifi problem
All the needed files / how-to is here : http://forum.xda-developers.com/htc-one-m8/help/tutorial-how-to-stock-stock-twrp-t3086860
You guys are absolutely amazing. Thank you so much for the help and patience. I followed all the steps (except for the multiple OTA updates, which I'm in the process of right now) and the wifi problem seems to be fixed.
On an off note, does it matter that in the bootloader, it says
*** Software status: Modified ***
*** UNLOCKED ***
?
And should I go through the process of S-Off-ing my phone? Does it benefit me to do it?
Again, thank you so much
Xenosaki said:
I followed all the steps (except for the multiple OTA updates, which I'm in the process of right now) and the wifi problem seems to be fixed.
On an off note, does it matter that in the bootloader, it says
*** Software status: Modified ***
*** UNLOCKED ***
?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
UNLOCKED is fine. OTAs will install whether its locked or not. Better to leave it as-is (relocking only needed and recommended to run RUU or signed firmware zip).
The software modified flag is a bit puzzling. It usually indicated the ROM has been modified. If you installed the stock TWRP backup for your CID, it shouldn't say this. And software modified will prevent OTA from installing.
Are you sure you installed the stock TWRP backup (exactly correct software number) that ckpv5 indicated?
Xenosaki said:
And should I go through the process of S-Off-ing my phone? Does it benefit me to do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It depends on what you want to do with the phone. For most things (root, flashing custom ROMs, kernels, etc.), s-off is not needed. But it can be handy if you want to flash radios, modified hboots, convert to another CID or MID, and some other things.
---------- Post added at 10:22 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:18 AM ----------
Xenosaki said:
The second and third picture are the adb getvar all that you suggested me doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The pics do not show the expected output for adb getvar all.
My guess is that you tried to run the commands same as the other (fastboot) commands, while in fastboot mode. adb commands can only be run while booted into OS (and with Debugging enabled in phone settings) or in recovery. Only fastboot commands work in fastboot mode.
redpoint73 said:
The software modified flag is a bit puzzling. It usually indicated the ROM has been modified. If you installed the stock TWRP backup for your CID, it shouldn't say this. And software modified will prevent OTA from installing.
Are you sure you installed the stock TWRP backup (exactly correct software number) that ckpv5 indicated?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the same as "TAMPERED" on hboot 3.18.0000 as seen on his first screenshot.
MODIFIED is on hboot 3.19.0000
That usually come after the bootloader is unlocked.
That can be change on S-Off device.
I installed the Venom ROM so that's probably the reason why it's showing that then. Thanks for everything guys

Bell Canada HTC One M8 Restore Project

Greetings- I have an M8 running CM12 (nightly)
main 4.20.666.1
hboot 3.19.0.0.0000
S-On
CM12 nightly
twrp2.6
SuperSU
I'm hoping to restore to upgrade but the *$$*%*$ S-On issue won't allow me to. My original recovery is corrupt/gone and I just wonder if anyone has any (good) ideas?
Tried Firewater and got the PIE error.
You guys are doing a great job here- I've learned alot lurking and hope to continue...
cheerss
Superflous said:
I'm hoping to restore to upgrade but the *$$*%*$ S-On issue won't allow me to.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What exactly are you trying to do, that you think s-on is preventing? Unless I'm missing something, I don't think there is anything you are trying to do, that would be impeded by s-on.
Superflous said:
My original recovery is corrupt/gone and I just wonder if anyone has any (good) ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stock recovery for your main version is posted by ckpv5 here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=58947150&postcount=4708
Superflous said:
Tried Firewater and got the PIE error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Firewater was discontinued by the developer 6 months ago (online service, so no longer works).
Sunshine is the only current s-off method, if you really need s-off (not clear that you do).
redpoint73 said:
Stock recovery for your main version is posted by ckpv5 here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=58947150&postcount=4708
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Already moved my stock recovery collection to here : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=60211779&postcount=4
All in one place and easier to find I guess.
ckpv5 said:
Already moved my stock recovery collection to here : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=60211779&postcount=4
All in one place and easier to find I guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Certainly great to have it in one place, and thanks for doing so!
redpoint73 said:
What exactly are you trying to do, that you think s-on is preventing? Unless I'm missing something, I don't think there is anything you are trying to do, that would be impeded by s-on.
Stock recovery for your main version is posted by ckpv5 here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=58947150&postcount=4708
Firewater was discontinued by the developer 6 months ago (online service, so no longer works).
Sunshine is the only current s-off method, if you really need s-off (not clear that you do).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tx for recovery link, sorry if it wasn't explained right but i want to restore my phone back to Bell firmware and lollipop . I spoke with the Root ninja via email ans Sunshine won't work on my phone(their words). I have tried to install the "firmware_M8SD_4.20.666.1_Modified_Bell_Canada.zip" but it fails and locks me up in the blue CM head until I reset, then reverts back to CM12. I'm just getting into this but if I understand correct you need S-off to flash firmware. If this isn't right I would sure appreciate the path to the correct way to put my phone back to original. Tx for you help
Superflous said:
I have tried to install the "firmware_M8SD_4.20.666.1_Modified_Bell_Canada.zip" but it fails and locks me up in the blue CM head until I reset, then reverts back to CM12. I'm just getting into this but if I understand correct you need S-off to flash firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Somewhat correct. If the firmware is official (signed and encrypted) and for your CID, it will flash with s-on.
However, once the firmware has been modified in any way (as the one you tried clearly is) or otherwise not signed, you can't flash it unless you have s-off.
But I don't think flashing firmware is what you really want. You might be mixing up firmware with software (ROM). Firmware are the partitions that don't get changed when you flash a ROM. Firmware includes hboot, radio, and some other modules (WiFi, media, etc.). Since you need s-off to flash an "unofficial" firmware, and you are still s-on, you should still be on the stock firmware. And therefore, no need to "return to stock" since you still are stock.
What I think you mean, is that you want to return to stock ROM (since you are on CM12) and stock recovery. None of which require s-off. After that you can relock the bootloader. But it will always say RELOCKED instead of LOCKED, as the latter requires s-off. If you are selling or giving the phone away, RELOCKED should be sufficient for most folks. Although I highly recommend disclosing that the bootloader was previously unlocked, root, etc. to the new owner.
redpoint73 said:
Somewhat correct. If the firmware is official (signed and encrypted) and for your CID, it will flash with s-on.
However, once the firmware has been modified in any way (as the one you tried clearly is) or otherwise not signed, you can't flash it unless you have s-off.
But I don't think flashing firmware is what you really want. You might be mixing up firmware with software (ROM). Firmware are the partitions that don't get changed when you flash a ROM. Firmware includes hboot, radio, and some other modules (WiFi, media, etc.). Since you need s-off to flash an "unofficial" firmware, and you are still s-on, you should still be on the stock firmware. And therefore, no need to "return to stock" since you still are stock.
What I think you mean, is that you want to return to stock ROM (since you are on CM12) and stock recovery. None of which require s-off. After that you can relock the bootloader. But it will always say RELOCKED instead of LOCKED, as the latter requires s-off. If you are selling or giving the phone away, RELOCKED should be sufficient for most folks. Although I highly recommend disclosing that the bootloader was previously unlocked, root, etc. to the new owner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
'
so then I'm looking for a stock ROM from the carrier for firmware 4.20.666.1
tx again Redpoint
redpoint73 said:
Somewhat correct. If the firmware is official (signed and encrypted) and for your CID, it will flash with s-on.
However, once the firmware has been modified in any way (as the one you tried clearly is) or otherwise not signed, you can't flash it unless you have s-off.
But I don't think flashing firmware is what you really want. You might be mixing up firmware with software (ROM). Firmware are the partitions that don't get changed when you flash a ROM. Firmware includes hboot, radio, and some other modules (WiFi, media, etc.). Since you need s-off to flash an "unofficial" firmware, and you are still s-on, you should still be on the stock firmware. And therefore, no need to "return to stock" since you still are stock.
What I think you mean, is that you want to return to stock ROM (since you are on CM12) and stock recovery. None of which require s-off. After that you can relock the bootloader. But it will always say RELOCKED instead of LOCKED, as the latter requires s-off. If you are selling or giving the phone away, RELOCKED should be sufficient for most folks. Although I highly recommend disclosing that the bootloader was previously unlocked, root, etc. to the new owner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As a followup- tx for taking the time to explain- I have set the phone back to stock and happy to have learned some.
You are one of the good ones'
Cheers
Superflous said:
As a followup- tx for taking the time to explain- I have set the phone back to stock and happy to have learned some.
You are one of the good ones'
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're very welcome. Glad to see it worked out well for you.
Please click the "Thanks" button for any posts you found helpful.

Flashing a firmware

Hello
My htc one m8 is the Asian version (HTC__044) , upon using getvar all, I noticed that my version-main was missing along with the os in hboot. If I were to flash a firmware, would I need to relock the bootloader? Would I lose my data on locking the bootloader? Also, im on base .401 , would I directly be able to flash a .707?
Thanks in advance.
wasdapple said:
If I were to flash a firmware, would I need to relock the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If s-on, yes. Otherwise if s-off, no.
Also, be aware that with s-on you can only flash a firmware that is HTC signed/encrypted. Some are not, and require s-off.
wasdapple said:
Would I lose my data on locking the bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.
wasdapple said:
Also, im on base .401 , would I directly be able to flash a .707?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How are you determining 401? From what I'm seeing, the stock software/firmware for your CID should be 707.
You should be able to flash 707 firmware (assume you want to update to Lollipop) on your version, provided the previously mentioned requirements are met.
redpoint73 said:
If s-on, yes. Otherwise if s-off, no.
Also, be aware that with s-on you can only flash a firmware that is HTC signed/encrypted. Some are not, and require s-off.
Yes.
How are you determining 401? From what I'm seeing, the stock software/firmware for your CID should be 707.
You should be able to flash 707 firmware (assume you want to update to Lollipop) on your version, provided the previously mentioned requirements are met.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for replying. I believe it may have been the rom ive installed that changed my firmware, along with the fact it writes .401 on my software information page. Yes the default firmware should be .707 which I believe is also the main cause of my inability to connect to 4g in my area.
So assuming I find a signed firmware for .707 I would simply be able to flash it on the .401? Or would I have to still relock my bootloader.
Also, would the empty os/ version-main be a problem and if so how do I fix it.
Thanks for replying as you've also helped me a great deal the previous time.
wasdapple said:
I believe it may have been the rom ive installed that changed my firmware, along with the fact it writes .401 on my software information page.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing a ROM will not change your firmware. It does change software number, so if that is where you are getting 401 from, that is normal. Software number is just the base of your current ROM, not your firmware number.
Your firmware number is indicated on your bootloader screen under "OS" and also as "main version" when doing getvar all.
wasdapple said:
So assuming I find a signed firmware for .707 I would simply be able to flash it on the .401? Or would I have to still relock my bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you s-on or s-off?
If still s-on, there is no way you could have ever flashed a 401 firmware on your phone. I still think you are confused between software and firmware numbers, and I don't guess that you ever flashed a 401 firmware.
If you are s-on, I still think you are on 707 firmware, and there is some other factor causing your 4G problem.
Yes, you need to relock your bootloader to flash 707 firmware while s-on. If you are s-off, you don't need to relock the bootloader.
wasdapple said:
Also, would the empty os/ version-main be a problem and if so how do I fix it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It shouldn't be a problem. It will be fixed if you flash a firmware.
This bug was caused by older versions of TWRP. If you flash a current version of TWRP after flashing firmware, the problem should not re-occur.
---------- Post added at 10:19 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:17 AM ----------
wasdapple said:
Thanks for replying as you've also helped me a great deal the previous time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We always like repeat customers, and satisfied ones.
So is it possible that I am actually on 707 but my rom is making it show 401? Im terribly sorry for my lack of understanding of this whole situation.
Would using the twrp app on the play store update twrp? It should fix the empty main-version ?
wasdapple said:
So is it possible that I am actually on 707 but my rom is making it show 401? Im terribly sorry for my lack of understanding of this whole situation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know in the past, folks have often used the word "firmware" to mean the same as the ROM. But you should probably erase that notion from your mind. On this device, the word "firmware" is used specifically to partitions that are not flashed when you flash a ROM, and include hboot, radio, WiFi, Bluetooth, and others.
Yes, your firmware may still be 707 (which can normally be found as OS number on hboot screen, or main version when doing getvar all); while your software (ROM) which is shown in Settings>About>Software information can be 401. Firmware and ROM are 2 completely different things.
I've asked twice now, are you s-on or s-off?
wasdapple said:
Would using the twrp app on the play store update twrp? It should fix the empty main-version ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TWRP Manager app will update TWRP, yes.
You can also just download the latest version and flash with fastboot, which is my preferred method: https://twrp.me/devices/htconem8gsm.html
However, this alone won't fix the issue of main version missing, I don't believe. It will only stop if from re-occurring. But the only way to get the main version back is to flash a firmware. After that, having an updated TWRP will stop if from main version displaying "blank" again. If you use an old TWRP, it will blank out the main version again.
Get it?
I'm sorry I kept forgetting to reply to that, I am actually s-on.
So for instance I want to be back on 707 I should just revert to rooted stock?
wasdapple said:
I'm sorry I kept forgetting to reply to that, I am actually s-on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Than its simply impossible for you to ever have flashed a 401 firmware. Some of the firmware partitions (hboot, radio) are write protected with s-on, and can only be flashed with your CID version firmware (707).
wasdapple said:
So for instance I want to be back on 707 I should just revert to rooted stock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, rooted or unrooted should be fine.
But you will want to make sure your firmware and software versions match up. What are your hboot and radio numbers? Do you remember if you were on Lollipop before unlocking the bootloader?
My hboot would be 3.19.0.0000 and my radio is 1.25.21331147A1.06G
Yep I was on lollipop before unlocking my bootloader.
wasdapple said:
My hboot would be 3.19.0.0000 and my radio is 1.25.21331147A1.06G
Yep I was on lollipop before unlocking my bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can get the stock 4.19.707.2 nandrioid here (Post #2): http://forum.xda-developers.com/htc-one-m8/help/tutorial-how-to-stock-stock-twrp-t3086860
Keep in mind, this is a TWRP "nandroid" backup, not a flashable ROM zip. So follow the directions carefully to restore this stock nandroid.
Also note that this is the stock ROM, not the firmware.
Would I get back my 707 if I flashed this instead http://forum.xda-developers.com/htc...-sd-14-19-707-21st-android-5-0-sense-t3010391 ?
im seeing an Asian wwe base and it is 707.
Also I wouldn't be able to dirty flash a completely different rom right?
wasdapple said:
Would I get back my 707 if I flashed this instead http://forum.xda-developers.com/htc...-sd-14-19-707-21st-android-5-0-sense-t3010391 ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what you mean by "get back my 707", and you need to explain more clearly.
If the intent is to return to 707 firmware, its not needed, I'm confidant you already are on current 707 firmware. And flashing a ROM does not change your firmware (as I've already explained multiple times).
If the intent is to make the main version appear again, flashing a ROM won't do that either. As mentioned, you can only make that reappear by flashing a firmware.zip (not a ROM.zip).
If the intent is to just return to a 707 ROM base, then yes the ROM you linked will do that. But the only reason I see for you to do so, is to see if it helps your network issue. Using ROMs of other bases will not normally affect network service (as long as your carrier's APN is correct). And I've already linked you to stock 707 nandroid, which is probably the best baseline to troubleshoot from. Or are you not comfortable with the nandroid restore process?
Again, you haven't really explained what you are trying to accompish; so its hard to answer the question.
wasdapple said:
Also I wouldn't be able to dirty flash a completely different rom right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the ROM is a similar enough base, it might be possible to dirty flash. But its not recommended, and still possible to have various severe bugs, or not even boot. Therefore, full wipe is normally recommended when moving between different ROMs (and often even major updates of the "same" ROM).
Any person flashing ROMs should know how to backup and restore their personal data (using Titanium Backup and/or other means) when moving between ROMs.
Sorry for my vagueness in my previous post. Currently in my phone settings, the build number is 4.26.401. , which is the base of my current rom? So supposedly if I flash an Asian wwe would I get my software base back to a 707 as in the link.
Also, you mentioned for me to flash my firmware as per my cid, which could be found in most firmware dumps? Would be it be possible to link one to me? And if I am in fact on a 707, do I still flash 707 firmware?
The reason why I an unwilling to go through with nandroid is that I am not exactly looking to restore to stock, I like to have customs roms and the root capabilities. My ultimate objective is to get back to 707, or at least get it to appear on my software information screen. To my knowledge, 401 is for the European countries and the basebands for 4g LTE is different, thus I am unable to find out why if I am s-on with my firmware and radio intact I could not connect to my local 4g LTE, and to my point of view, only through flashing a firmware affect everything.
Im sorry for this large amount questions and extremely grateful you have taken the time to tend to it. I sincerely apologise if I seem to keep insisting that my firmware has changed despite your reminders.
I've actually been trying to update the firmware on my M8 today as well, but when I go to "flashboot flash zip firmware.zip" I am returned the message "not enough space."
I've cleared the cache successfully, and that didn't open up enough space. I tried to delete userdata, but it wouldn't let me do it remotely.
So I'm a little confused as to my next move here...
and I've relocked my phone and s-on.
wasdapple said:
Sorry for my vagueness in my previous post. Currently in my phone settings, the build number is 4.26.401. , which is the base of my current rom? So supposedly if I flash an Asian wwe would I get my software base back to a 707 as in the link.
Also, you mentioned for me to flash my firmware as per my cid, which could be found in most firmware dumps? Would be it be possible to link one to me? And if I am in fact on a 707, do I still flash 707 firmware?
The reason why I an unwilling to go through with nandroid is that I am not exactly looking to restore to stock, I like to have customs roms and the root capabilities. My ultimate objective is to get back to 707, or at least get it to appear on my software information screen. To my knowledge, 401 is for the European countries and the basebands for 4g LTE is different, thus I am unable to find out why if I am s-on with my firmware and radio intact I could not connect to my local 4g LTE, and to my point of view, only through flashing a firmware affect everything.
Im sorry for this large amount questions and extremely grateful you have taken the time to tend to it. I sincerely apologise if I seem to keep insisting that my firmware has changed despite your reminders.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. You will get your software number back if you flash a 707 based ROM, such as stock.
So, here we go.
Download this 4.19.707.2 RUU onto your PC
When the download is finished, plug your phone into your PC, double click on the downloaded file, and follow the prompts. This will update you to Lollipop and you will be on the stock ROM again.
Since you are S-On, you will first need to relock the bootloader.
In fastboot (obviously) fastboot oem lock before you proceed with this.
Also, THIS WILL WIPE YOUR PHONE, so be sure to backup anything that is important to you.
Is the ruu rooted, or purely stock pre-root?
Kindrex said:
I've actually been trying to update the firmware on my M8 today as well, but when I go to "flashboot flash zip firmware.zip" I am returned the message "not enough space."
I've cleared the cache successfully, and that didn't open up enough space. I tried to delete userdata, but it wouldn't let me do it remotely.
So I'm a little confused as to my next move here...
and I've relocked my phone and s-on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is your current OS number on the bootloader screen, and what firmware are you trying to flash?
---------- Post added at 10:53 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:21 AM ----------
wasdapple said:
Sorry for my vagueness in my previous post. Currently in my phone settings, the build number is 4.26.401. , which is the base of my current rom? So supposedly if I flash an Asian wwe would I get my software base back to a 707 as in the link.
The reason why I an unwilling to go through with nandroid is that I am not exactly looking to restore to stock, I like to have customs roms and the root capabilities. My ultimate objective is to get back to 707, or at least get it to appear on my software information screen. To my knowledge, 401 is for the European countries and the basebands for 4g LTE is different, thus I am unable to find out why if I am s-on with my firmware and radio intact I could not connect to my local 4g LTE, and to my point of view, only through flashing a firmware affect everything.
Im sorry for this large amount questions and extremely grateful you have taken the time to tend to it. I sincerely apologise if I seem to keep insisting that my firmware has changed despite your reminders.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If the intent it to return to 707 based ROM to see if that helps your 4G issue, then yes the custom ROM you previously posted will do that. It will also make 707 appear for software number in the phone Settings.
wasdapple said:
Also, you mentioned for me to flash my firmware as per my cid, which could be found in most firmware dumps? Would be it be possible to link one to me? And if I am in fact on a 707, do I still flash 707 firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was more talking "if" you can find the 4.16.707 firmware. The main firmware collection I refer to doesn't have 4.16.707, just old 707 firmwares (which you don't want)]: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2696282
If the firmware can't be found, the RUU listed by xunxholyx is your best bet if you really want to flash the 707 firmware. But I really don't think this is needed. As I'm nearly 100% sure you are already on the current 707 firmware, and the only benefit of flashing the 707 firmware (by RUU) is to get the OS number to appear again on the bootloader screen and on getvar all (which is really not that important).
On the other hand, RUU to full stock may be a good way to troubleshoot your 4G issue, especially if flashing the 707 based custom ROM still doesn't fix the issue. RUU is not just a stock ROM, but a complete factory image, complete with bootloader, radio, etc.
---------- Post added at 11:08 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:53 AM ----------
wasdapple said:
Is the ruu rooted, or purely stock pre-root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It appears to be 100% official and stock (unrooted). It will also wipe your phone.
---------- Post added at 11:09 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:08 AM ----------
xunholyx said:
Yes. You will get your software number back if you flash a 707 based ROM, such as stock.
So, here we go.
Download this 4.19.707.2 RUU onto your PC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice find. I didn't know Asia version had any RUUs.
redpoint73 said:
Nice find. I didn't know Asia version had any RUUs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, they are hard to come by. I was helping a user here six to eight weeks ago, and told him I didn't know of any Asia RUUs. He came back the next day replying that he found one, so I asked for the link and gave it to Sneakyghost and Alex (from AFH) to upload to androidruu.com
They have a few that aren't common there, and are always looking for more hard to find ones. If you come across one, you could PM me or Sneakyghost to have it added. Always nice to have a good RUU repository to go to.
Hey everyone. I'm having a similar issue, and I don't want to start a new thread, so I'm going to add on to this one.
I've been on AOKP since it was released for this phone, so I've missed out on some OTA updates. Every time I try to flash a Lollipop ROM I get all these weird issues (WiFi not working, systemUI crashes, etc.), and after reading a few threads, I believe its an issue with the firmware.
I tried going back to stock, but the only Nandroid backup I could find for my phone isn't compatible with my firmware (WiFi refuses to work, only data). So I was wondering what else I could do to update the firmware. Reading this thread, it looks like the RUU is another method, but I'm not too sure how to get started with that, or which one to use, as my OS in the Bootloader and my version-main is blank.
Any advice is appreciated, please let me know if you need more info.
My Device:
Rooted
TWRP 2.8.7.0
S-Off
CID-TELUS001
watidk said:
I tried going back to stock, but the only Nandroid backup I could find for my phone isn't compatible with my firmware (WiFi refuses to work, only data). So I was wondering what else I could do to update the firmware. Reading this thread, it looks like the RUU is another method, but I'm not too sure how to get started with that, or which one to use, as my OS in the Bootloader and my version-main is blank.
Any advice is appreciated, please let me know if you need more info.
My Device:
Rooted
TWRP 2.8.7.0
S-Off
CID-TELUS001
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are your hboot and radio numbers?

HTC One M8s OTA not working

Hi,
I recently managed to root my HTC One M8s with TWRP recovery and everything works perfectly, except that I can't install the new OTA (1.16.401.1).
After searching I have flashed my recovery back to the stock for my version (which is 1.11.401.1) and tried applying the OTA again, but it still fails.
I downloaded the recovery from this website: ruu.lalleman.net/HTC_M8S%28QL_UL%29/Recovery/HTC%20Recovery/ (I can't post URLs yet).
Below is the error I receive when trying to update on stock recovery, TWRP recovery also gave the same error when I tried updating there.
(Code -1)
E:Find no match PARTITION: for package path @/cache/recover/block.map
Finding update package...
Opening update package...
Verifying update package...
Installing update...
L50QCT.01.105.019
Verifying current sytem...
Package expects build fingerprint of htc/m8qlul_htc_europe/htc_m8qlul:5.0.2/LRX22G/531284.2:user/release-keys or htc/m8qlul_htc_europe/htc_m8qlul:5.0.2/LRX22G/555949.10:user/release-keys;
This device has htc/m8qlul_htc_europe/htc_m8qlul:5.0.2/LRX22G/53128
E:Error in @/cache/recovery/block.map
(Status 7)
From what I can see my build fingerprint is incorrect, but I have no idea how to fix it...
Seems to me it's likely that you've altered some system files while rooted and the Ota doesn't like it.
Now, I don't own an M8s...i have an M8, but I'd say the easiest route would be to flash your stock ruu again. After that the OTA should work.
It's that or figure out what system changes have been made and correct it. Xposed can mess you up, Uninstalled system apps can stop the Ota... MODS that changed system files... Etc. The Ota us looking for a stock system, then it updates it.
Good luck!
Thanks for the answer, I will see if I can try this solution tomorrow. I just have 2 questions:
What does the RUU do exactly? Should I see it as a complete stock reset of my phone?
And can I simply flash it using fastboot or is there a special method for a RUU?
My previous phone had an automated root and I always updated with OTA afterwards so I never flashed before now.
Im on the same boat. Tried to sim unlock by rooting and playing with CID but didnt work, now ive a rooted m8s and no ota. Tried to ruu but kept getting an error something like not enough space although i had 10gb free, cleared cache rebooted. Cant even factory reset. If anyone know how to unroot it and bring it back to stock that would be fantastic. Kind of want to delete the "flag" too make it "LOCKED" and "OFFICIAL" incase for warranty. Any ideas?
You guys have flashed 1.16 before, haven't you...?
See here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/htc-one-m8/help/help-thread-htc-one-m8s-to-stock-howto-t3190238
Err, oops, posted too soon. You said you have flashed to 1.11. What is the full filename of the RUU you flashed?
voidzero said:
You guys have flashed 1.16 before, haven't you...?
See here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/htc-one-m8/help/help-thread-htc-one-m8s-to-stock-howto-t3190238
Err, oops, posted too soon. You said you have flashed to 1.11. What is the full filename of the RUU you flashed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I got my phone I updated with OTA to version 1.11, after that I flashed TWRP recovery and rooted my phone. Now that OTA 1.16 is out I tried to update but couldn't, so I tried to flash back to stock recovery but it still wouldn't work because of the error above. Now it would seem that I am doing this the wrong way, and you cannot use OTA on a rooted/unlocked/custom recovery M8s.
Manual OTA flash worked on my previous phone with root which was an ASUS Padfone Infinity A80 as ASUS would release them on their own website for you.
Apparently HTC does not do this, or I am not looking in the right place.
I have never flashed a RUU before, and I don't know how to lock my bootloader again. From what I understand, every time there is a new OTA I will have to lock my bootloader, flash original recovery, flash RUU and then update. That sounds like a lot of trouble every time a new OTA comes out.
Is there no way to manually flash the new OTA without losing root, custom recovery and locking the bootloader? Will I have to follow these steps every time? Also I use the built in back-up to Google as well as HTC back-up but I don't know if all my data is in those back-ups or if I will lose something.
Codyksp said:
(...) so I tried to flash back to stock recovery but it still wouldn't work because of the error above. Now it would seem that I am doing this the wrong way, and you cannot use OTA on a rooted/unlocked/custom recovery M8s.
(..)
I have never flashed a RUU before, and I don't know how to lock my bootloader again. From what I understand, every time there is a new OTA I will have to lock my bootloader, flash custom recovery, flash RUU and then update. That sounds like a lot of trouble every time a new OTA comes out.
(...)
Is there no way to manually flash the new OTA without losing root, custom recovery and locking the bootloader? Will I have to follow these steps every time? Also I use the built in back-up to Google as well as HTC back-up but I don't know if all my data is in those back-ups or if I will lose something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you restore a RUU, and afterwards don't flash your recovery and boot partitions, You will see "Software status: official" in fastboot.
Now here's the trick: if you just boot a custom recovery with "fastboot boot my_recovery.img" (TWRP for example) then it will boot TWRP, but you can make the modifications to your system partition without losing "Software status: official" in fastboot.
So: If you just boot your recovery with 'fastboot boot' and don't flash anything, you can make all the modifications you want and still be able to install OTAs later, I think. I've rooted my phone, even installed XPosed, done all kinds of funky things to it but Fastboot still shows me that I'm on official software.
How does that sound?
So since there is no decent guide at all about flashing RUU for a HTC One M8s (the s makes a difference!). I have assumed that I need to have the bootloader locked first, as I unlocked it. According to all the M8 guides I have to gain S-OFF before I can lock the bootloader again. So I followed a guide to wipe with TWRP and flash a ROM called InsertCoin so that I can S-OFF my phone.
Now after going through the ROM's setup my phone is stuck in a bootloop, constantly trying to boot up. There is NO way at all for me to get it to stop, it just keeps booting the entire time. Not a single combination of buttons is working. Good thing the battery is non removable. How am I supposed to fix this? I've tried every volume up/down/power combination possible. The phone just boots to the HTC - Power by Android screen, shuts off after about 5 seconds and then repeats the same thing over and over. I can't turn it off and I can't get to the bootloader either.
What I need is a guide that tells me all the steps required to get an HTC One M8s (NOT M8!) back to 100% stock. This means, stock ROM, stock recovery, locked bootloader and S-ON. I am getting extremely frustrated by the lack of information and the amount of redicilous things I need to do just so I can root my phone and have OTA as well.
All I want is root on my phone for 1 app that I use with my car radio and I want to be able to update to the newest OTA afterwards, is that really so much to ask?
I am fine with installing a custom ROM with root and easy updates too, as long as the damn phone will boot after installing it and it's actually made for the M8s.
Deleted......
Well I finally managed to get the damn thing to the bootloader, and I've used "fastboot oem lock" to relock my bootloader. It now shows ***Software status: Modified ***, *** RELOCKED *** and ***Security Warning ***.
I will now have to go to my parents where my laptop is to be able to copy the RUU to my SD card, from what I understand it has to be named 0PKVIMG.zip and then it should automatically install.
Now the phone says it can't find the image or the image is incorrect.... It searches for, 0PKVDIAG.zip, 0PKVDIAG.nbh, 0PKVIMG.zip or 0PKVIMG.img. and it seems to find 0PKVIMG.zip and loads it but it cannot find the .img file and does absolutely nothing. Am I supposed to have both?
So it turns out that the RUU zip from http://ruu.lalleman.net/HTC_M8S%28QL_UL%29/RUU/ is actually not correct and I had to use rom.zip which was inside the folder. The phone is now running the "update" as it calls it. Fingers crossed...
Yes, possible you need to use rom.zip inside the zip, depending on the version, but I think this applies to 1.16 which I advice against using for reasons previously specified.
---------- Post added at 07:47 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:47 PM ----------
By the way, I did write an RUU restoration thread specifically for this subject. Did you not find it?
Apparently I also needed to use the rom.zip for the 1.11 version, in the meantime I have also updated with OTA to 1.16. Afterwards I also unlocked my bootloader, restored my settings and installed SuperSU by booting TWRP. Let's hope the next OTA still works...
I did read your thread but I got stuck at first on relocking the bootloader, as I couldn't find the exact instructions for a while. Afterwards I got stuck on flashing the RUU because I didn't know that I needed to use the rom.zip file to get it to work.
After all that I got quite frustrated and I just wished there was 1 thread with instructions for everything (unlocking, relocking, flashing, compatible ROMs, booting to keep OTA, etc.) which is why I was angry at the time and couldn't properly read everything or find solutions. In the end it all worked out so far though.
I would ask you to create a compilation thread though if you wanted to improve the available information. Either way, thanks for the information that you've already provided.
Codyksp said:
Apparently I also needed to use the rom.zip for the 1.11 version, in the meantime I have also updated with OTA to 1.16. Afterwards I also unlocked my bootloader, restored my settings and installed SuperSU by booting TWRP. Let's hope the next OTA still works...
I did read your thread but I got stuck at first on relocking the bootloader, as I couldn't find the exact instructions for a while. Afterwards I got stuck on flashing the RUU because I didn't know that I needed to use the rom.zip file to get it to work.
After all that I got quite frustrated and I just wished there was 1 thread with instructions for everything (unlocking, relocking, flashing, compatible ROMs, booting to keep OTA, etc.) which is why I was angry at the time and couldn't properly read everything or find solutions. In the end it all worked out so far though.
I would ask you to create a compilation thread though if you wanted to improve the available information. Either way, thanks for the information that you've already provided.
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Click to collapse
The next ota won't work because you rooted it. Root changes binaries which lead to a fail on ota.
You need a non rooted (read : never rooted before) stock rom.
Mr Hofs said:
The next ota won't work because you rooted it. Root changes binaries which lead to a fail on ota.
You need a non rooted (read : never rooted before) stock rom.
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Click to collapse
So in that case I just unroot it before updating then?
Codyksp said:
So in that case I just unroot it before updating then?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read my post again...... "a never rooted rom" so that means you need a stock rom before its ever been rooted. NOT an unrooted one because it leaves traces which will cause the ota to fail !
People should learn to create a nandroid backup before flashing ANY mods/superuser.zip/roms etc......etc
Well developers shouldn't make this such a hassle... My previous phone was an ASUS Padfone Infinity (A80) and it didn't receive any OTAs after being rooted but ASUS simple lets you download the firmware updates on their website and then you can manually update it without any problems. If HTC provides a bootloader unlock, why can't they allow OTA or at least provide manual firmware updates?
I wouldn't mind using a custom ROM either but I have no idea which ROMs work for the HTC One M8s. Would any M8 ROM be compatible? The phones aren't identical, the "s" is there for a reason...
Codyksp said:
Well developers shouldn't make this such a hassle... My previous phone was an ASUS Padfone Infinity (A80) and it didn't receive any OTAs after being rooted but ASUS simple lets you download the firmware updates on their website and then you can manually update it without any problems. If HTC provides a bootloader unlock, why can't they allow OTA or at least provide manual firmware updates?
I wouldn't mind using a custom ROM either but I have no idea which ROMs work for the HTC One M8s. Would any M8 ROM be compatible? The phones aren't identical, the "s" is there for a reason...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say that M8 roms wouldn't be compatible, and could even mess up your device badly. Sorry!
Codyksp said:
Well developers shouldn't make this such a hassle... My previous phone was an ASUS Padfone Infinity (A80) and it didn't receive any OTAs after being rooted but ASUS simple lets you download the firmware updates on their website and then you can manually update it without any problems. If HTC provides a bootloader unlock, why can't they allow OTA or at least provide manual firmware updates?
I wouldn't mind using a custom ROM either but I have no idea which ROMs work for the HTC One M8s. Would any M8 ROM be compatible? The phones aren't identical, the "s" is there for a reason...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your point of view is a bit off if you ask me. Developers (in this case HTC) do not have to support custom modding of your phone. They support the device in the state you buy it !
If you want to mod it that's YOUR call not theirs. Do some homework before modding it. Getting a phone back to stock for future updates is relatively easy but many people don't read first how to as they think it's not important.
HTC has no obligation at all towards you regarding custom software !
And indeed M8 roms do NOT work on your M8s !

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