Develop Bugs

[GUIDE FOR NOOBS] How to update Xperia S to Android 4.0 ICS: STEP by STEP

I have seen this question posted a dozen times today across several threads, thus, I decided to write a step-by-step, fool proof, noob-oriented simple guide; if somebody asks again please point him/her to this thread to avoid spamming the main discussion / development threads
STEP BY STEP GUIDE:
How to update the Sony Xperia S
to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich​
NOTICE 1: This guide is for WINDOWS PC USERS, if you have a Mac I can't help you, but the process is very similar
NOTICE 2: It doesn't matter if your phone is rooted or not, bootloader unlocked or not, IT DOESN'T MATTER, this update has nothing to do with SIM unlock, bootloader lock / unlock, root, etc
NOTICE 3: This guide will update your Xperia S from ANY previous version to OFFICIAL SONY ICS ANDROID 4.0.4 and believe me: it is worth the update; HAT TIP TO SONY !!
NOTICE 4: The internal SD card contents will NOT be deleted but everything else inside your phone will be reseted to factory defaults because this is a major update, so do a backup if you want to keep call logs, SMS etc. I only backup my SMS and Whatsapp messages, google backed up everything else because I had the backup option activated in settings
NOTICE 5: Before asking, please read the questions and answers in the thread for many Frequently Asked Questions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
STEP 1:
Download the Flashtool
You will find the installers here: http://androxyde.github.com/Flashtool/
Go to the "installation" tab, download Flashtool installer v0.9.10.1 and run it
You will have a new folder on your PC: c:\Flashtool
STEP 2:
Download the ICS firmware update
You will find several download options here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1723610, just pick one and download it, then come back here
SOME NOTICES (I know you are gonna ask):
- I know it is "Generic Switzerland" (CH) but nevermind: it is plain Sony Generic and works fine for any region and has ALL the languages and keyboards
-The firmware is already prepared to be flashed via Flashtool in .FTF format. If the file you downloaded is .RAR then it is compressed ("zipped") and you need to EXTRACT the .FTF with WinRAR (if you don't have WinRAR download it from here: http://www.rarlab.com/download.htm)
STEP 3:
Let's update the phone!
- Copy the firmware FTF file to c:\Flashtool\Firmwares
- Go to c:\Flashtool\Drivers and run "Flashtool-drivers.exe" to install the proper drivers for Xperia S
- After installing the USB drivers reboot your PC
- Go to c:\Flashtool and run "FlashTool" (if you have Windows 64 bits, run "FlashTool64")
- Click the flash button (yes: the thunder icon up left)
- Select "Flahsmode" and click "OK"
- Select the "LT26 6.1.A.0.452" firmware and click "OK", DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING ELSE
- Flashtool will prepare the files for flashing, just be patient
- A Window will pop up asking you to connect the phone in "Flashmode" showing instructions for an old Xperia phone: ignore it, here is how the Xperia S enters "Flashmode":
- Turn off the phone
- Press and hold the VOLUME DOWN key
- Keep it pressed, connect the USB cable to your PC
- Release the Volume Down key when phone's GREEN LED lights up
- Flashtool will start flashing automatically, let it finish to 100%
- Disconnect the USB cable when Flashtool reaches 100% and indicates flashing has finished giving some extra info about activating debugging mode etc (don't care, that's optional)
- Turn on your phone (press and hold the Power button for some seconds)
- The first boot takes some minutes, don't worry let your phone prepare your Ice Cream Sandwich for you
- Have fun !! :highfive:
PS1: PLEASE REMEMBER TO SAY "THANKS" to Bin4ry (for the FTF firmware) and Androxyde (for the Flashtool)
PS2: And the usual disclaimer, of course: Follow the steps and be careful, I am not responsible if you brick your phone, burn your house or blow your PC by following this guide; I am just sharing what I did to update my own phone :angel: and it worked for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
.

can you upload full system dump from phone? cause i extract from system.sin but 70% files are corrupt and can not used

mercury_beta said:
can you upload full system dump from phone? cause i extract from system.sin but 70% files are corrupt and can not used
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BzBG...VaU0loVXM/edit

gtrab said:
I have seen this question posted a dozen times today across several threads, thus, I decided to write a step-by-step fool-proof noob-oriented simple guide; if a noob asks again please point him/her to this thread
STEP BY STEP GUIDE:
How to update the Sony Xperia S to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich​
NOTICE 1: THIS IS FOR WINDOWS PC USERS, if you have a Mac I can't help you
NOTICE 2: It doesn't matter if your phone is rooted or not, bootloader unlocked or not, IT DOESN'T MATTER
STEP 1:
Download the Flashtool
You will fin the installers here: http://androxyde.github.com/Flashtool/
Go to the "installation" tab, download Flashtool installer v0.8.0.0 and run it
Then, download the v0.8.6.0 Update and run it
You will have a new folder on your PC: c:\flashtool\
STEP 2:
Download the ICS update firmware
You will find several download options here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1723610, just pick one and download it and come back here
SOME NOTICES (I know you are gonna ask):
- I know it is "Generic Switzerland" (CH) but nevermind: it is plain Sony Generic and works fine for any region and has ALL the languages and keyboards
-The firmware is already prepared to be flashed via Flashtool in .FTF format. If the file you downloaded is .RAR then it is compressed ("zipped") and you need to EXTRACT the .FTF with WinRAR (if you don't have WinRAR download it from here: http://www.rarlab.com/download.htm)
STEP 3:
Let's update the phone!
- Copy the firmware FTF file to c:\Flashtool\Firmwares
- Go to c:\Flashtool\Drivers and run Flashtool-drivers.exe to install the proper drivers
- Run Flashtool
- Click the flash button (the thunder icon)
- Select "Flahsmode" and click "OK"
- Select the "LT26 6.1.A.0.452" firmware and click "OK". DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING ELSE
- Flashtool will prepare the files for flashing. Be patient.
- A Window will pop up asking you to connect the phone in Flashmode with an old Xperia phone and instructions: ignore it, here is how our shiny new Xperia S enters "Flashmode":
- Turn your phone off
- Press and hold the VOLUME DOWN key
- Keep it pressed, connect the USB cable to your PC
- Phone will have green LED indicating it is in "Flashmode"
- Flashtool will start flashing, now you can release the volume key
- Flashtool takes a couple of minutes, let it finish to 100%
- Disconnect the USB cable
- Press the Power button to turn on your phone
- Thefirst boot takes a while, dn't worry
- Have fun !!
PS: PLEASE REMEMBER TO SAY "THANKS" to Bin4ry (the guy who uploaded the firmware) and Androxyde (the guy who gave us the Flashtool)
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First i want to say thank you!
Then Plz answer me some FAQ
- after flash how is the bootloader and rooting status, and simlock status?
- language keyboard including vietnammes?
- after flash could i use pccomparision nomal?
Sent from my LT26i using Tapatalk 2

dynamic503 said:
First i want to say thank you!
Then Plz answer me some FAQ
- after flash how is the bootloader and rooting status, and simlock status?
- language keyboard including vietnammes?
- after flash could i use pccomparision nomal?
Sent from my LT26i using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.- Nothing changes. This will only UPDATE the Android system, this will NOT SIM-unlock, unlock or relock bootloader, or root
2.- Yes: I sid ALL languages
3.- I don´t know (I never use it) but I guess yes you could (why not?)

We should take note of unchecking debugging mode in developments before using flashtool to upgrade if you do not want to meet several issues.
Sent from my LT26i using Tapatalk 2

Sorry for this noob question, but
If i have a hong kong version xperia s, after flashing this Switzerland version, will it stay the same as a hong kong phone? Or it will be forever a Switzerland version? If there will be any OTA in the future, which ota update should i be expecting by that time, thank you in advance
Sent from my Sony Tablet S using xda premium

Montague said:
Sorry for this noob question, but
If i have a hong kong version xperia s, after flashing this Switzerland version, will it stay the same as a hong kong phone? Or it will be forever a Switzerland version? If there will be any OTA in the future, which ota update should i be expecting by that time, thank you in advance
Sent from my Sony Tablet S using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.- it will have switzerland version software of course, and you will be expecting OTAs from this software version, but I wouldn't recommend it
2.- you can always change your software with flashtool
but if you want to use official ways (OTA or PC Companion) then better keep the original software or reflash the original software
With flashtool you can flash this software today and return to your original software tomorrow (should an OTA appears in your region), you can change as many times as you wish

gtrab said:
2.- you can always change your software with flashtool
but if you want to use official ways (OTA or PC Companion) then better keep the original software or reflash the original software
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you
and for number 2, how can I keep the original software? Is there any ways to back up the software FTF file??

Montague said:
Thank you
and for number 2, how can I keep the original software? Is there any ways to back up the software FTF file??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes you can search for an already-made FTF of your software
or you can make your own with flashtool, search the forum for the how-to

gtrab said:
yes you can search for an already-made FTF of your software
or you can make your own with flashtool, search the forum for the how-to
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Much appreciated!
And my last final question is, will this wipe out all user data and the apps? I didnt really see anything about these on the first post(If i missed any I apologize)
will the OTA/PC Companion do the same

Montague said:
Much appreciated!
And my last final question is, will this wipe out all user data and the apps? I didnt really see anything about these on the first post(If i missed any I apologize)
will the OTA/PC Companion do the same
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some users avoid wiping all user data but face issues afterwards
It ss always recommended to let the update wipe everything
PC Companion and OTA will wipe everything as well because that's the right way to make such a big update
I will add this to the guide tomorrow
PS: I use SMS backup and restore from google play to backup my SMS messages, and I backup my whatsapp messages from inside whatsapp (it has a backup option). Everything else (including settings, calls, apps, etc) is auto-restored by google

Few Questions
1)After i update to this 4.0.4 (Switzerland) can i update my phone when my country gets the 4.0.4 update again (Using sony update service software) or i have again download my country 4.0.4 and flash it again with flash tool
2)Will it Void warrenty

Now we need a noob step by step guide to bootloader unlocking and rooting a kernel for cpu overclocking

Ben36 said:
Now we need a noob step by step guide to bootloader unlocking and rooting a kernel for cpu overclocking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ya even i need

i'll post my problem here too maybe who see this discussion can help me! my previous custom rom was Ka08 with doomkernel, and now with new ICS wifi doesn't work anymore! i tryed to reflash wifi stock module too provvided from doomkernel thread but nothing happend...still not work! i removed doomkernel and flashed the original kernel.sin inside the new ICS firmware as the guide said, but WIFI still not work! someone got same problem or there is a solution for this please?

Questions:
Flashing via flashtool will it voi warranty?
If I flash this, will I be able to update via PCC again or not?
Where can I find a GB world generic ftf file?

If I flash like this, without waiting for O2, will it void my warranty?

Great guide!

merci!
Merci a lot!

[repair][arc/arc s]unbrick and restore to stock

If you messed up your ROM by installing wrong kernel, not wiping data, doing stuff in the wrong order etc, and your ROM doesn't start and you don't know how to fix it...
Follow these instructions to return to:
1. Stock Gingerbread
2. Stock ICS
3. Stock ICS + root
1. Choose appropriate FTF file and download:
ONLY LT15i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/lpdhtmqi/LT15i_4.0.2.A.0.62_Generic Global World.ftf
.42 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/vmfu4czg
ONLY LT15a
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/f58llc72
ONLY LT18i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/gsfx4w60
2. Download and install flashtool https://github.com/Androxyde/Flashtool/zipball/master
3. In settings on phone, allow unknown sources, turn on usb debugging. (if you can't start your phone, ignore.)
4. Turn off phone.
5. Connect usb cable to phone, hold back key while plugging the USB to the pc. LED is now GREEN
6. Open flashtool, drag the downloaded FTF file to the flashtool window. Press ok.
7. You may need to reconnect the phone the same way as before.
8. The stock GB is now flashing. Gingerbread 2.3.4 INSTALLED
From here the phone is fixed and you can do whatever you want.
ICS:
9. Connect the phone to the computer and install ics 4.0.3 via pc companion/sony update service.
ROOT:
10. Download rootkit: http://bit.ly/ert_xperia_2011_ics_1
11. Extract files anywhere.
12. Again make sure unknown sources are allowed, turn on usb debugging.
13. Run runme.bat
Phone is now rooted.
I can not guarantee that this will work for you/your device however I am quite confident that if you follow the instructions carefully you will succeed.
Please press THANKS if I helped.

Not helpful with people for ICS, why would you do this when there are so many threads like this?

MrModMan said:
Not helpful with people for ICS, why would you do this when there are so many threads like this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This can be helpful for anyone whose ROM isn't working. It is directed to noobs who accidentally ruins their custom ROM so they can start over. Also the reason why I'm doing this is because I searched the forums and I could not find a guide that was simple for noobs to understand, which would always work no matter what you did wrong. I've used this method so many times and it has saved me countless times. I thought the least I could do was to share.
I hope I answered your questions.

Why why why do People use uploaded.to links, and feel the need to rehost files to it. Just link directly to the flashtool and use mediafire for anything else.
Sent from my CM9'd Arc

XperienceD said:
Why why why do People use uploaded.to links, and feel the need to rehost files to it. Just link directly to the flashtool and use mediafire for anything else.
Sent from my CM9'd Arc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I collected links from different guides/threads on youtube and xda and assembled them into this full guide. I did not bother to re-upload the files because I did not find it necessary though I agree, mediafire is really good. I will change flashtool link.

Thanks for taking the time to make this guide, sadly when I was a real noob I couldn't find any guide like this...
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

Great guide, got my phone back up and running :good:
Sent from my LT18i

quite handy for those who tried jelly and got stucked.

Unverified fast download for stock GB ROM.
http://minus.com/lbq1F5p8H17EA0

Thanks phone starts now.. Cant update to ICS but.
Charl96 said:
If you messed up your ROM by installing wrong kernel, not wiping data, doing stuff in the wrong order etc, and your ROM doesn't start and you don't know how to fix it...
Follow these instructions to return to:
1. Stock Gingerbread
2. Stock ICS
3. Stock ICS + root
1. Choose appropriate FTF file and download:
ONLY LT15i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/lpdhtmqi/LT15i_4.0.2.A.0.62_Generic Global World.ftf
.42 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/vmfu4czg
ONLY LT15a
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/f58llc72
ONLY LT18i
.62 firmware: http://uploaded.to/file/gsfx4w60
2. Download and install flashtool https://github.com/Androxyde/Flashtool/zipball/master
3. In settings on phone, allow unknown sources, turn on usb debugging. (if you can't start your phone, ignore.)
4. Turn off phone.
5. Connect usb cable to phone, hold back key while plugging the USB to the pc. LED is now GREEN
6. Open flashtool, drag the downloaded FTF file to the flashtool window. Press ok.
7. You may need to reconnect the phone the same way as before.
8. The stock GB is now flashing. Gingerbread 2.3.4 INSTALLED
From here the phone is fixed and you can do whatever you want.
ICS:
9. Connect the phone to the computer and install ics 4.0.3 via pc companion/sony update service.
ROOT:
10. Download rootkit: http://bit.ly/ert_xperia_2011_ics_1
11. Extract files anywhere.
12. Again make sure unknown sources are allowed, turn on usb debugging.
13. Run runme.bat
Phone is now rooted.
I can not guarantee that this will work for you/your device however I am quite confident that if you follow the instructions carefully you will succeed.
Please press THANKS if I helped.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot.. This worked of LT15i.. My phone is up and running on GB 2.3.4 but it doesn't get updated to ICS thru Sony update service/pc companion. I tried it 2-3times & it give the same error. "The phone contains modified software that cannot be updated" See attached Screenshot.
How to upgrade to ICS now ? Any other way ?

NilayS said:
How to upgrade to ICS now ? Any other way ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The same way you flashed GB, except use ICS ftf's and root methods.

XperienceD said:
The same way you flashed GB, except use ICS ftf's and root methods.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.. searching the development thread for stock ics ftfs.. BTW do you have any working ICS ftf links ?

NilayS said:
Thanks.. searching the development thread for stock ics ftfs.. BTW do you have any working ICS ftf links ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See my Arc guide, or Google or general browsing of the forum will help with your search.

NilayS said:
Thanks a lot.. This worked of LT15i.. My phone is up and running on GB 2.3.4 but it doesn't get updated to ICS thru Sony update service/pc companion. I tried it 2-3times & it give the same error. "The phone contains modified software that cannot be updated" See attached Screenshot.
How to upgrade to ICS now ? Any other way ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you bootloader is unlocked NEVER accept updates OTA unless you want to brick your phone!
Sent from my Xperia Arc S using xda premium

cannot update
After following the link, my phone is on stock GB 2.3.4 so obviously i connected my device to pc to get official 4.0 update via sony PC companion and after it downloads the software and tries to install it into my phone it says "your device contains modified software which cannot be updated" please help !!

Not helping me
Charl96 said:
This can be helpful for anyone whose ROM isn't working. It is directed to noobs who accidentally ruins their custom ROM so they can start over. Also the reason why I'm doing this is because I searched the forums and I could not find a guide that was simple for noobs to understand, which would always work no matter what you did wrong. I've used this method so many times and it has saved me countless times. I thought the least I could do was to share.
I hope I answered your questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have same problem with my ARC S, but by following the instructions flashtool stuck at device connected in flash mode and goes no where and my device turn off automatically.

Connect your device only when prompted to by flashtool.
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app

Thanks for reply but
tangosierra_ said:
Connect your device only when prompted to by flashtool.
Sent from my LT18i using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for reply but i have followed all instruction by flashtool and i had connected device when flashtool told me to do so but in vain. can you help me?

xda_hawk said:
After following the link, my phone is on stock GB 2.3.4 so obviously i connected my device to pc to get official 4.0 update via sony PC companion and after it downloads the software and tries to install it into my phone it says "your device contains modified software which cannot be updated" please help !!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand this reply is far too late but for people in the future:
You cannot upgrade to ICS when your bootloader is unlocked. You can easily lock it again using this small FTF file. When the upgrade with PC companion is complete, you can continiue modifying your phone with custom ROMs etc.

junaidtahir said:
Thanks for reply but i have followed all instruction by flashtool and i had connected device when flashtool told me to do so but in vain. can you help me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is very hard for me to know what is causing this problem. Some minor modifications to the flashing procedure can potentially fix it. Try doing it like this: Open FlashTool, drag the FTF-file and drop it in the dialog box. Press ok and wait for the instructions to pop up. When they do, connect the USB-cable FIRST to the phone and after that hold back key while plugging it to the computer. If the battery of the phone is too low I think it can cause problems, try to charge your battery (if possible) and try again. Also make sure to flash the appropriate FTF-file, accordning to your model.

[Q] Sony Ericsson Xperia Pro MK16i downgradeing to shipped 2.3.4.

Im going to downgrade my Sony Ericsson Xperia Pro MK16i from the latest Android 4.0.4 to shipped 2.3.4.
The reason is that with version 4.0.4 my phone slowed down terribly.
My phone is NOT rooted and version 4.0.4 has been uploaded/flashed with official Sony software: Sony PC Companion 2.1
As Sony provides no official way to downgrade Android I have searched here a few useful topics:
Firmwares for MK16i - shipped:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1642480
Flashing procedure:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=928343
As I am going to do that for the first time in my life and I have some doubts (I dont want to turn my phone into a brick) I want to ask for a few quiestion/advices:
1. just in case downgrade will fail, can I make some kind of backup of my current system and roll it back ?
2. there are no information at the Flashing Procedure about any assumption/requirements eg. "unlocking boot loader" or any other. My phone is not modified at all. Does this procedure still valid ?
3. my phone was bought in Switzerland and (unfortunately) keyboard key Z is switch with Y (possibly some other keys may be different than regular keyboard is). Please note: I use US-English settings instead.
I searched for shipped/default Android OS image (.ftf file). What I have found is:
- pro MK16_4.0.2.A.0.42_GenericDE
- MK16i_1234-7775_4.0.2.A.0.62_Generic_Trade_Central_Europe
- MK16i_4.1.B.0.431_Baltic
Which one of these would be the most suitable ?

czezz said:
Im going to downgrade my Sony Ericsson Xperia Pro MK16i from the latest Android 4.0.4 to shipped 2.3.4.
The reason is that with version 4.0.4 my phone slowed down terribly.
My phone is NOT rooted and version 4.0.4 has been uploaded/flashed with official Sony software: Sony PC Companion 2.1
As Sony provides no official way to downgrade Android I have searched here a few useful topics:
Firmwares for MK16i - shipped:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1642480
Flashing procedure:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=928343
As I am going to do that for the first time in my life and I have some doubts (I dont want to turn my phone into a brick) I want to ask for a few quiestion/advices:
1. just in case downgrade will fail, can I make some kind of backup of my current system and roll it back ?
2. there are no information at the Flashing Procedure about any assumption/requirements eg. "unlocking boot loader" or any other. My phone is not modified at all. Does this procedure still valid ?
3. my phone was bought in Switzerland and (unfortunately) keyboard key Z is switch with Y (possibly some other keys may be different than regular keyboard is). Please note: I use US-English settings instead.
I searched for shipped/default Android OS image (.ftf file). What I have found is:
- pro MK16_4.0.2.A.0.42_GenericDE
- MK16i_1234-7775_4.0.2.A.0.62_Generic_Trade_Central_Europe
- MK16i_4.1.B.0.431_Baltic
Which one of these would be the most suitable ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MK16i_4.1.B.0.431_Baltic is 4.0.4, not 2.3.4
I would recommend you to flash 0.62 firmware
- Download the firmware and paste it in Flashtool/firmwares
- Open Flashtool
- Connect the device in flashmode (i believe u have installed flashmode drivers. If not, they are in /Flashtool/drivers
- Press the scar button/flashmode/ and then select the firmware you downloaded. Press start. When finishes it will reboot. Now you are done
If u have any question, ask it, but read tutorials first.
Cheers, hope it helps.

Cm 10.1 (JB)
@czezz bro Y U NO try Jelly Bean cm10.1
Leave those crappy laggy GB & ICS and try cynogenmod ...these rom r fast and smooth with no lag

Hi,
thank you very much for your replies.
Assumptions:
1. For this point it is not clear to me will I be able to restore my phone to any working configuration in case flashing procedure fails ?
2. I assume there are no additional requirements. Simply follow the steps http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=928343
3. As luiseteyo suggested, I will use 0.62 firmware (I guess 0.62 = MK16i 4.0.2.A.0.62 (1251-0386) )
@shareupload:
thank you for suggestion.
First I will do a very basic operation - flashing with shipped/default firmware (Android OS image ?).
Afterwards, yes I will be interested to do some improvement to my phone. However for that I think I need to read some basic information just to be sure what am I doing and avoid turning my phone into a brick.

It doesnt work at all.
I have followed the instruction. FlashTool tels me that I need to install drivers while I have installed all drivers available in Flashtool\drivers
Please look at the print screen - it also shows that I have all drivers.
However, during procedure when I turn off the phone, unplug the cable, hold back button and then plug cable back again it tells me that I dont have drivers...
SO CONFUSING ((
Here is a print screen: imageshack.us/photo/my-images/163/wuds.png/?sa=0
Can anyone please advice what is wrong ???
My phone: SE MK16i

czezz said:
It doesnt work at all.
I have followed the instruction. FlashTool tels me that I need to install drivers while I have installed all drivers available in Flashtool\drivers
Please look at the print screen - it also shows that I have all drivers.
However, during procedure when I turn off the phone, unplug the cable, hold back button and then plug cable back again it tells me that I dont have drivers...
SO CONFUSING ((
Here is a print screen: imageshack.us/photo/my-images/163/wuds.png/?sa=0
Can anyone please advice what is wrong ???
My phone: SE MK16i
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What Windows are you using?

its Windows 7 Home Premium x64, SP1.
Does it matter ?

czezz said:
its Windows 7 Home Premium x64, SP1.
Does it matter ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I asked it, because I had some issues on Windows 8.
Did you install Flashmode drivers and the drivers specific to your device?

Someguyfromhell said:
I asked it, because I had some issues on Windows 8.
Did you install Flashmode drivers and the drivers specific to your device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, as I have written I have installed all available in Flashtool\drivers. Though there is no specific driver for MK16 (why ???)
Additionally, I have installed latest PC Companion.
No luck ((

czezz said:
Hey, as I have written I have installed all available in Flashtool\drivers. Though there is no specific driver for MK16 (why ???)
Additionally, I have installed the latest PC Companion.
No luck ((
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know it's an old thread. But, if anyone would face this situation then the solution is that:
1. You need to select(tick) the drivers of your specific model along with flash mode and fast boot(top 2 options) while installing the drivers.
2. When you see the driver selection screen then just hover your mouse over the available drivers to see/find the name of your particular phone and tick that.
3. Remember that there can be 2 or more drivers for the same phone in the selection menu. So, scroll through the entire list and select all the drivers that have your phone name on it.
Also, as of 2020, if you are having a 2011 series Sony Ericsson mobile. Then you need an older flashtool version(not the latest). For Eg 9.13 flashtool version worked for my Sony Erisson MK16i on Windows 8. But, the latest version had some driver & compatibility issues for older phones.

From Samsung to Sony and confused about Bootloader unlocking.

Im thinking of buying a Z5P and while i have searched a lot, i just cant seem to find the answer to a question i have maybe someone here can help. On Sonys developer website there is instructions on how to unlock the bootloader and the last line of the instructions are as follows, note the part in blue text.
Tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. If Bootloader unlock allowed says Yes, then you can continue with the next step. If it says No, or if the status is missing, your device cannot be unlocked.[/B]
My question is how/where do i buy a Z5P that will definitely be Bootloader unlock allowed yes, surely its not just a case of random devices are unlockable is it? I was going to buy this from carphone its sim free so im expecting to be allowed to unlock the bootloader but dont want to buy it only to find i cant.
http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/phones/sony-xperia-z5-premium/handset?colourCode=BLACK

If the phone has no SIM lock, it's bootloader should be unlockable. I say "should" since I am not aware of other factors that keep the bootloader locked, but there might as well be.
On another note, unless you are a fairly advanced user and are set on flashing your device with a custom kernel, I would not recommend a bootloader unlock before root or an option to back up of TA becomes available.
It contains your device's DRM which gets irreversibly lost which makes your camera perform worse(BIONZ stops working), among other things.

CPW is the place to go for unlockable fones. I got my Z5P from there.
Sent from my SGP311 using XDA Free mobile app

As mentioned elsewhere, IN GENERAL (rare exceptions) - if it's SIM-unlocked it'll be bootloader-unlockable. If it's SIM-locked, the bootloader is almost guaranteed to be perma-locked.
While SIM locks and bootloader locks are technolgically independent, in the case of Sony devices (This rule of thumb can NOT be applied to any other manufacturer), SIMlocked devices have a permanent bootloader lock, devices sold without a SIM lock can have bootloader unlocked. Note that in the case of phones sold with a SIM lock that are later unlocked with a PIN - the bootloader lock is still disallowed.

Cheese for the replys everyone I got the phone from the carphone and its boot loader unlock allowed yes
I got the regular z5 instead though.

Hey, Dunno if I have an option or not, but my phone says Bootloader Unlock Allowed: No.
I imagine that it's a no, but is there any way to unlock the BL? If not I may consider swapping the Z5P out for something else, dunno if I can live without root

NJ72 said:
Hey, Dunno if I have an option or not, but my phone says Bootloader Unlock Allowed: No.
I imagine that it's a no, but is there any way to unlock the BL? If not I may consider swapping the Z5P out for something else, dunno if I can live without root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try flashing another firmware through flashtool that is allowed.

KbaB.BroS said:
Try flashing another firmware through flashtool that is allowed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Worth a punt, didn't think about that. The only concern is that Flashtool isn't supported for the Z5p according to Sony's site.

NJ72 said:
Worth a punt, didn't think about that. The only concern is that Flashtool isn't supported for the Z5p according to Sony's site.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as you use flashmode there is no need to be supported, because the program doesn't know which phone it is in that state. I flashed my Z5P once using flashtool about a week ago.

KbaB.BroS said:
As long as you use flashmode there is no need to be supported, because the program doesn't know which phone it is in that state. I flashed my Z5P once using flashtool about a week ago.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, cool, thanks.
Where do I get the firmware from for Flashtool? Can I flash something like AurRom using Flashtool?
Sorry for the idiot questions, but I haven't used Flashtool very much at all. Much more familiar with ODIN, ADB and flashing through recovery...

NJ72 said:
OK, cool, thanks.
Where do I get the firmware from for Flashtool? Can I flash something like AurRom using Flashtool?
Sorry for the idiot questions, but I haven't used Flashtool very much at all. Much more familiar with ODIN, ADB and flashing through recovery...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Install flashtool from "flashtool.net"
It comes bundled with Xperifirm where you can download ftf files for every Xperia device. You access Xperifirm through the Flashtool program.
You cannot flash AurROM through flashtool because it's not a ftf file. Flash a stock rom and try unlocking the Bootloader afterwards.
And don't worry about asking "stupid questions". This thread is made for every kind of questions, as long as it's about the device.

KbaB.BroS said:
Install flashtool from "flashtool.net"
It comes bundled with Xperifirm where you can download ftf files for every Xperia device. You access Xperifirm through the Flashtool program.
You cannot flash AurROM through flashtool because it's not a ftf file. Flash a stock rom and try unlocking the Bootloader afterwards.
And don't worry about asking "stupid questions". This thread is made for every kind of questions, as long as it's about the device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much.
One final question, in the UK I have EE WiFi calling currently - if I install non-carrier specific firmware I will most likely lose this. Is there any way I can backup the existing software so I can revert whether the flashtool flash works or not?

NJ72 said:
Thanks very much.
One final question, in the UK I have EE WiFi calling currently - if I install non-carrier specific firmware I will most likely lose this. Is there any way I can backup the existing software so I can revert whether the flashtool flash works or not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can try this guide:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=F0bSsGxFdks

NJ72 said:
Thanks very much.
One final question, in the UK I have EE WiFi calling currently - if I install non-carrier specific firmware I will most likely lose this. Is there any way I can backup the existing software so I can revert whether the flashtool flash works or not?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you want to do is follow sonys instructions on how to check if your phone is able to unlock bootloader here: http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
If you can unlock your bootloader, which you will know after performing the simple steps provided by sony, then you need to install android studio along with required drivers etc, before you can actually unlock the bootloader.
Android studio can be found here: http://developer.android.com/sdk/installing/index.html?pkg=studio
Read everything throughly, it is important to get all the details regarding usage and installation.
After installing Android studio, you should download all the required SDK's found inside android studio->Configure->SDK Manager.
On the left side you will see several options in the navigation menu.
First go to Appearance & Behavior->System settings->Android SDK. Then in the "window" you have, make sure the first tab is selected (SDK Platforms).
Here you need to check all the android versions your phone(s) run.
Then go to the second tab (SDK Tools) and download:
Android SDK Build Tools
Android SDK Tools 24.4.1
Android SDK Platform-Tools 23.1
Google USB Driver
Android NDK
I am not sure if you really need the NDK one, but the rest I think is required. You can do as I did and choose all if you want.
On the last tab (SDK Update Sites) I have checked everything.
When you have done all of this, you should install Flashtool and go to the install directory and open the Driver folder, where you will find a .exe file. Run this and click next untill you can choose a few items from a list, in this list you should check Fastboot drivers, and USB drivers, and any other options that are relevant to your use, then finish the installation. (The entire installation of Flashtool should be done with 100% admin rights on the user).
After this is done, connect your phone to your pc and go to device management on your pc and you will likely find something similar to this:
If you have this yellow exclamation mark triangle thingy, then you will need to manually install your USB drivers.
Download your driver here: http://developer.sonymobile.com/downloads/drivers/
Then right click the yellow exclamation mark triangle thingy device in device management, and select update driver, then select "Browse my computer for driver software".
On the next window, select "Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer".
In the list that appears, select "Show All Devices" and click next.
Click the "Have Disk" button, then navigate to the driver you downloaded, and you will get 3 options in the window on you screen, select "Android ADB Interface" and click next.
Confirm by pressing "Yes" Then press "Install".
If completed without problems you should see "Windows has successfully updated your driver software".
*NOTE* On the above steps, you can also navigate to the folder where you installed android studio, which should be something similar to this: C:\Program Files(x86)\Android\android-sdk\extras\google\usb_driver OR it can be found your USER folder.
and here you can install the usb_driver aswell, which should make most phones support USB debugging and ADB on via your pc.*NOTE*
now reconnect your phone and the exclamation mark triangle thingy should be gone, good!
Next thing you can do is navigate to the installation folder of Android studio, and go to the Platform-Tools folder.
Inside the folder, hold down shift, while right clicking any white empty space inside the folder, and click open terminal here.
In the terminal, type: "adb devices" /Without the " marks. then it should say something about daemon not running etc, when its done, do the same command again, and you should se you device listed. Good, at this point you are ready to unlock bootloader!
If you have succeeded in every step so far, then go ahead and unlock bootloader following sonys instructions!
When you are done, you can simply follow the guides provided in the custom Rom thread itself most of the time.
If not, then a simple way to do it is:
Get all the files you need for the rom flash. That means Kernel, rom img, and a custom recovery like TWRP and SuperSU.
It is REALLY important that all files are for your device specifically!
Put the SuperSU.zip and the custom Rom.zip on your sd card and put it in the phone.
To avoid any trouble, do as I did and save all those files in the Platform-Tools folder, because you need to open the terminal as shown earlier in the post, by holding shift and right clicking in the same folder as the files, this is a must.
Open the terminal from the same folder as the rom, kernel and recovery.
type:
Code:
fastboot flash boot NAMEOFYOUR_KERNEL.img (This is usually boot.img)
fastboot flash recovery NAMEOFYOUR_RECOVERY.img (Usually contains TWRP in name)
fastboot reboot
You should now press volume up key when a led lights up while you see the sony logo, a orange light, not the red one, this will bring you into recovery, from here choose install, then navigate to your SuperSU.zip and install it.
Reboot your phone and you are now rooted, if you also have a custom rom, then place it on your sd card like the SuperSU.zip, but make sure the custom rom is a ZIP file!
Boot into recovery and install the custom rom, wipe cache and dalvick cache.
Congratulations on your custom rom!
Hope this helps a bit, sorry for any errors, but this is exactly how I did it, as far as I can remember!
Btw, this can seem like alot of work, especially when and if you encounter any problems while installing. I know I did encounter ALOT of them, but hopefully with my simple guide you can avoid them!
Luckily, this is just something you have to do once if you do it 100% right!

xirt0n said:
What you want to do is follow sonys instructions on how to check if your phone is able to unlock bootloader here: http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
If you can unlock your bootloader, which you will know after performing the simple steps provided by sony, then you need to install android studio along with required drivers etc, before you can actually unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The problem he has is that his stock ROM (or the phone itself) doesn't allow bootloader unlocking, probably because of SIM and carrier lock. Therefore he first needs to find a way to make the phone unlockable.

KbaB.BroS said:
The problem he has is that his stock ROM (or the phone itself) doesn't allow bootloader unlocking, probably because of SIM and carrier lock. Therefore he first needs to find a way to make the phone unlockable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am no expert on this, but doesnt the carrier decide if its locked or not?
I've seen people solve it by flashing different and unbranded firmware, but not for this particular phone tho, but I dont think it's officially possible.

xirt0n said:
I am no expert on this, but doesnt the carrier decide if its locked or not?
I've seen people solve it by flashing different and unbranded firmware, but not for this particular phone tho, but I dont think it's officially possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this point he could at least try, he's got nothing to lose. I have never had this problem, because I buy my phones unlocked no carrier involved, so these are only suggestions.

KbaB.BroS said:
At this point he could at least try, he's got nothing to lose. I have never had this problem, because I buy my phones unlocked no carrier involved, so these are only suggestions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, what I would try is first just try to do a full restore of your phone via PC Companion, and if that doesnt work then id try downloading an unbranded firmware from XperiFirm (If I am not mistaken, those named CUSTOM or something are unbranded) and then flash that via flashtool and see if that works, if not then your last hope is to get it replaced by warranty, which I'd say is fraud if the device isnt actually malfunctioning.

xirt0n said:
Yeah, what I would try is first just try to do a full restore of your phone via PC Companion, and if that doesnt work then id try downloading an unbranded firmware from XperiFirm (If I am not mistaken, those named CUSTOM or something are unbranded) and then flash that via flashtool and see if that works, if not then your last hope is to get it replaced by warranty, which I'd say is fraud if the device isnt actually malfunctioning.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think PC Companion works at all, because the only thing it does is downloading identical firmware like the one on the phone. So Flashtool only choice.
I replaced mine with one from flashtool that has a lot less bloatware it originally came with.

KbaB.BroS said:
I don't think PC Companion works at all, because the only thing it does is downloading identical firmware like the one on the phone. So Flashtool only choice.
I replaced mine with one from flashtool that has a lot less bloatware it originally came with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, I never personally used PC companion so I didnt know what it does, I just saw people suggest it around

all about official firmware and where to find it

This wil be a list of firmware sources and a bit of explanation in different firmware versions and builds. This information has been gathered over the past few weeks, mainly by helping others to find the proper stock roms.
First of all, there seem to be multiple regions that have different firmware’s, and there seem to be different software channels per region or per region per provider. ( for instance vfeu vs reteu )
The phone model is XT2041-X where the X can stand for 1 to 4
The development name / moto name is called: Sofiar ( XT2041-1/3)
the development name for the US name is: Sofia ( xt2041-4 )
The easiest way to find the proper firmware would be via the Lenovo rescue and smart assistant ( LMSA)
you can download it from here: https://download.lenovo.com/consumer/mobiles/rescue_and_smart_v5.0.0.25_setup.exe
Since a few days support has been added to rescue the g8 power
you can download the current firmware for your device via the rescue page.
Manual selection of firmware sources:
So far, every source on the internet points to the lolinet mirror
see https://mirrors.lolinet.com/firmware/moto/sofiar/official/
US version: https://mirrors.lolinet.com/firmware/moto/sofia/official/
a 2nd source would be the moto updates tracker, but I expect that everything you find here Will appear on lolinet
US: https://t.me/s/MotoUpdatesTracker?q=#sofia
The rest of the world: https://t.me/s/MotoUpdatesTracker?q=#sofiar
so far I have not been able to find any other sources. I hope this helps a bit in downloading / finding the stock firmware for your phone.
If you find any other / better source, please let me know, I'll add it to this first post.

Thanks
I successfully updated mine and regained root.
I will post manual update guide later.
A side note: the following must be flashed in fastbootd (fastboot reboot fastbootd or adb reboot fastboot)
boot.img, recovery.img, vbmeta.img, super, dtbo.img

@mingkee Pls can you share manual update guide? THX

endva3 said:
@mingkee Pls can you share manual update guide? THX
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's a simple method using LMSA rescue method, but make sure you backup your phone because your phone will be wiped during the process.

Hi, I'm running into a little problem. I used the lolinet link to download the factory ROM for my Moto G Power (Best Buy unlocked, on Verizon). I downloaded the sofia VZW factory ROM first (thinking because I'm on Verizon). I used Magisk to patch the boot.img and fastbooted it. After reboot, I lost the touch screen and cell service -- could not unlock the phone. So I thought no big deal, I'll just reflash the unpatched boot.img from the sofia retus ROM this time. However, I still do not have touch screen. Does anyone have the factory boot.img for QPM30.80.50-1 that originally came with this G Power? Thanks in advance.

quangtran1 said:
Hi, I'm running into a little problem. I used the lolinet link to download the factory ROM for my Moto G Power (Best Buy unlocked, on Verizon). I downloaded the sofia VZW factory ROM first (thinking because I'm on Verizon). I used Magisk to patch the boot.img and fastbooted it. After reboot, I lost the touch screen and cell service -- could not unlock the phone. So I thought no big deal, I'll just reflash the unpatched boot.img from the sofia retus ROM this time. However, I still do not have touch screen. Does anyone have the factory boot.img for QPM30.80.50-1 that originally came with this G Power? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You may have patched unmatched build number.
Solution: flash full ROM
LMSA rescue is the simplest method but it will wipe the phone

Thanks! That was what I ended up doing.

Is it possible to change fw xt2041-3 (PAHF0004PL) to XT2041-3 (PAHF0006GB)? I'm on the PL version (andoid security January 2020) and the GB version is May 2020. If possible, the bootloader must be unlocked? Can it be changed via any tool (mototool) or via adb commands?

Anyone have the boot.img for QPMS30.80-51-3?
I cant download the latest May update from their server. Some reason the link to download expired a few days after. So if anyone has another link or can just hook it up with the boot.img please
I couldnt get it with the rescue app either it was a lower version.
EDIT
Found it here
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=82865201&postcount=73

Some lessons learned
pjottrr said:
The easiest way to find the proper firmware would be via the Lenovo rescue and smart assistant ( LMSA)
you can download it from here: https://download.lenovo.com/consumer/mobiles/rescue_and_smart_v5.0.0.25_setup.exe
Since a few days support has been added to rescue the g8 power
you can download the current firmware for your device via the rescue page.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In my case, you in fact cannot exactly download the "current" firmware via the rescue page - the phone's updater app thinks QPM30.80-51-3 is the latest version, but the rescue app installs the newer QPM30.80-109. Both are 5/1/2020 security patch level, but the boot.img files are most certainly not interchangeable.
I ended up in a bootloop which I had to rescue the phone to escape. I'd advise anyone wanting to root this phone to just rescue it first.
Also it's essential that you install the Motorola Device Manager/USB drivers in addition to LRSA, otherwise LRSA will incorrectly insist your phone is not in fastboot flash mode if you have to resort to rescuing from fastboot mode.
Finally, the rescue process will not work from a Windows VM under KVM, whether you have the USB device redirected or shared with the host. You need Windows running on bare metal.
Hope this saves someone the hours of annoyance I just went through trying to unbrick the damn thing.

Can jump from a carrier Rom to a unlocked version? And if yes, what's the unlocked phone rom? Cause I only see carrier versions.

Mikael1013 said:
Can jump from a carrier Rom to a unlocked version? And if yes, what's the unlocked phone rom? Cause I only see carrier versions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Switching from a carrier rom to an unlocked version won't SIM unlock a phone (at least not to my knowledge), if that's your objective. But if you're looking to switch the retail flavor rom, try RETUS, specifically XT2041-4_SOFIA_RETUS_10_QPM30.80-13-2_subsidy-DEFAULT_regulatory-DEFAULT_CFC.xml.zip.

rlrevell said:
In my case, you in fact cannot exactly download the "current" firmware via the rescue page - the phone's updater app thinks QPM30.80-51-3 is the latest version, but the rescue app installs the newer QPM30.80-109. Both are 5/1/2020 security patch level, but the boot.img files are most certainly not interchangeable.
I ended up in a bootloop which I had to rescue the phone to escape. I'd advise anyone wanting to root this phone to just rescue it first.
Also it's essential that you install the Motorola Device Manager/USB drivers in addition to LRSA, otherwise LRSA will incorrectly insist your phone is not in fastboot flash mode if you have to resort to rescuing from fastboot mode.
Finally, the rescue process will not work from a Windows VM under KVM, whether you have the USB device redirected or shared with the host. You need Windows running on bare metal.
Hope this saves someone the hours of annoyance I just went through trying to unbrick the damn thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also a good word of advice before flashing a boot.bin
run the command
fastboot boot boot.bin
or whatever your boot.bin is called
Then you can test your patched file before patching it. Also even better once you get into Android you can open MAGISK and use direct install

TNS201 said:
Also a good word of advice before flashing a boot.bin
run the command
fastboot boot boot.bin
or whatever your boot.bin is called
Then you can test your patched file before patching it. Also even better once you get into Android you can open MAGISK and use direct install
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've never actually had this work on any device I've tried to root. Command not implemented or some such error was always the result. Does it work for you on this device?

The download link for the latest Google Fi firmware works again if anyone wants to grab it before it expires...again heh.
SOFIA_RETAIL_QPMS30.80-51-3

CodyF86 said:
The download link for the latest Google Fi firmware works again if anyone wants to grab it before it expires...again heh.
SOFIA_RETAIL_QPMS30.80-51-3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have stock boot IMG by any chance? Thx in advance

freddienuxx said:
Do you have stock boot IMG by any chance? Thx in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
sofia_80-51-3boot.img

CodyF86 said:
sofia_80-51-3boot.img
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thx man

rlrevell said:
I've never actually had this work on any device I've tried to root. Command not implemented or some such error was always the result. Does it work for you on this device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yea when you are in bootloader with phone attached to the PC it should work
It worked on my pixel 2 xl and this phone

Does anybody have this file available? (Sorry for the spaces, I can't post a link...). The download link has expired.
t.me /motoupdatestracker/ 2752
filename: SOFIA_RETAIL_QPMS30.80-51-5_subsidy-DEFAULT_regulatory-DEFAULT_CFC.xml.zip
What's the difference between that and RETUS on lolinet? Is there any? Reason I'm asking is that I don't have any radios after that OTA (Google Fi) and flashing the boot.img from RETUS QPMS-30.80-51-5.