[GUIDE] How to Flash a Custom ROM - Nexus One Android Development

I know its something fairly simple, but for the newbies out there, here's a simple walkthrough I made for how to flash a custom ROM on your Android phone. If there are any improvements I can make, let me know How to Flash a Custom ROM on Android
Benefits of Flashing a Custom ROM
While you’ll end up seeing a lot of benefits from custom ROMs, they all probably fall under 3 main areas:
Better Performance – You’ll be able to overclock Android or even see it built in with the ROM as well as see overall performance increases from various tweaks
Better Battery Life – One of the first things people do when rooting is remove stock apps. Don’t know how? Most developers have the apps already removed in their ROMs. Additionally, various system tweaks and improved kernels, as well as undervolting Android help to drastically improve Android battery life.
Better Overall Experience – Try other versions of Android such as those found on other phones that have been ported to yours; stay up to date with updates and new features; try out different Android themes, etc.
All in all, there are a LOT of benefits you’ll get from using a custom ROM on Android, so wait no more, here’s How to Flash a Custom ROM on Android.
Basic Steps
Choose the ROM that you want and download its .zip file
Transfer the zip file to your phone's sd card. Do not put it into any folder.
Turn off your phone and reboot into recovery, usually by holding the down button and power button at the same time.
Do a Nandroid backup
Wipe the phone by clear cache/factory restore and wiping dalvik cache
Flash the zip file that you put on your sd card
Reboot phone

all this info doesn't help a thing if you don't have a rooted phone and a custom recovery. Not very usefull How to..

mkrmec said:
all this info doesn't help a thing if you don't have a rooted phone and a custom recovery. Not very usefull How to..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to agree. While OP's heart is in the right place, a real noob will just get confused by this because there are A LOT of steps missing from the process.
I would recommend that noobs go here instead:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:Nexus_One.png
This has everything a noob needs to get started off right.

Ops heart isn't in the right place, op is trying to get paid lol.

mkrmec said:
all this info doesn't help a thing if you don't have a rooted phone and a custom recovery. Not very usefull How to..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats kind of harsh. Do you really think this isn't useful? You mean you never didn't know how to flash a custom ROM? Impressive.
In my guide, I specifically outline that you must be rooted.
dictionary said:
Ops heart isn't in the right place, op is trying to get paid lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excuse me? I believe I made this specifically to try to help people.

Good guide, but all the info already in the wiki and the wiki for nexus one already stickied on the top of the page...

cyben76 said:
Good guide, but all the info already in the wiki and the wiki for nexus one already stickied on the top of the page...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you looked at the wiki, you'd notice that its just a short list of written steps. This is a video walkthrough. Just something a little more for users who are confused.
I was just trying to help guys.

Great, everyone was a noob once.. Your post is great, but might just confuse the users, imagine everyone starting a new post about flashing ROM cos the other person missed some points. Best in you add to the wiki, then new users would just refer to one guide..

Related

[Q] Kernels

I searched thru much of the articles and I am still a little fuzzy on the modification of the kernels.
When I added the stock enhancement, did it modify the kernel?
And if it did how big a deal is it? and if so how do you get back to the basic kernel?
This is the only subject that I find little organized info on. Probably an over sight on my part.
It is a little fuzzy, but you have to go through each dev area to see if you are getting a customized kernel or not. Example: TNT Lite does not have oen, but gADAM does. I state this in my first post.
Customized kernels give you better performance and things the vendor has not added (like CIFS support). Going on two of the kernels I've seen, you might need to be fairly technical to use them.
I am mulling over adding a customized kernel to TNT Lite, and breaking my usual protocol. Still debating that.
Can we load different kernals freely and switch between them if we want to try different ones? I'm on Vegan 7 and has pershoots kernal but i've also heard good things about clemsyns. I'm happy with the performance right now so if switching will open a can of worms id rather not, but if it's relatively risk free I wouldn't mind trying it out.
New kernels should not be taken lightly. Considered it the same danger as flashing a new rom.
Thanks all but I am still wandering.
My kernel ver is 2.6.32.9-00000-10.8.2-dirty
[email protected] #16
Is this stock or not? If not is it a problem?
Thanks in advance
Mantara said:
New kernels should not be taken lightly. Considered it the same danger as flashing a new rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I'll stick w the setup i have now, battery lasts all day and it's pretty fast.
cruiser771 said:
Can we load different kernals freely and switch between them if we want to try different ones? I'm on Vegan 7 and has pershoots kernal but i've also heard good things about clemsyns. I'm happy with the performance right now so if switching will open a can of worms id rather not, but if it's relatively risk free I wouldn't mind trying it out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you are free to upgrade your current kernel on vegan7, by flashing the .zip in my thread, through recovery, if you like.
this will bring you up to 2.6.32.36. be sure to flash the _gb file for gtab.
if you are using any external modules (cifs, etc.) those will also need to be updated. you can grab them from the lib..zip and push them to your system. instructions can be found on the droidbasement postings for gtab.
Finding good kernel install instructions is not that easy to find
roebeet said:
It is a little fuzzy, but you have to go through each dev area to see if you are getting a customized kernel or not. Example: TNT Lite does not have oen, but gADAM does. I state this in my first post.
Customized kernels give you better performance and things the vendor has not added (like CIFS support). Going on two of the kernels I've seen, you might need to be fairly technical to use them.
I am mulling over adding a customized kernel to TNT Lite, and breaking my usual protocol. Still debating that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Roebeet,
Please do as so far have not been able to find good kernel install instructions for the two ones you mention on your TnT Lite 4.x.x post. If you have somewhere good directions on how to update kernels please add/link them to your post as more than one technical nOOb like I are willing to read about it.
In case I do get lucky and you see this please invest 30 seconds reading this post as I hope it could help to increase speed as sdcard/sdcard2 have both the same cache http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1012774
As always thanks for all you do and you will be enjoying a coffee/beer as soon as I get my gTablet delivered all the way down where I live (South America)... so you could imagine I am still have plenty of time to keep reading
achernez said:
Roebeet,
Please do as so far have not been able to find good kernel install instructions for the two ones you mention on your TnT Lite 4.x.x post. If you have somewhere good directions on how to update kernels please add/link them to your post as more than one technical nOOb like I are willing to read about it.
In case I do get lucky and you see this please invest 30 seconds reading this post as I hope it could help to increase speed as sdcard/sdcard2 have both the same cache http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1012774
As always thanks for all you do and you will be enjoying a coffee/beer as soon as I get my gTablet delivered all the way down where I live (South America)... so you could imagine I am still have plenty of time to keep reading
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I deployed Clem's kernel to TNT Lite, this afternoon.
That sdcard item is interesting, but I'd have to really dig into it, more. It's an init.rc change so it would have to be added to a boot.img. Past experience has shown that it's best that I let some of the Power Users beta-test and report back first, before dropping it in a mod.
pershoot said:
you are free to upgrade your current kernel on vegan7, by flashing the .zip in my thread, through recovery, if you like.
this will bring you up to 2.6.32.36. be sure to flash the _gb file for gtab.
if you are using any external modules (cifs, etc.) those will also need to be updated. you can grab them from the lib..zip and push them to your system. instructions can be found on the droidbasement postings for gtab.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok I put the file "boot-cm_2632.36_gb-xtra-vfp_fp-032711.zip" on the tablet, should i wipe the cache or can i just apply the update. i already did a backup
edit: just did some google searching, I wiped the cache and dalvik, all is well, thanks pershoot!

Am I retarded orrrrr?

So, I have been messing with Android for approximately 4 months on and off. I had a Nook Color, two actually, that I installed HC on and they both worked great.
I recently had my iPhone4 stolen from my car and I needed something fast, so I picked up an Optimus V from Virgin.
I was able to Root it using the FastBoot method. Perfect. How the F bomb do I install custom Kernels and or Roms on this thing? Before I just formatted an SD card with CWR and flashed the kernels that way. Can I still do that on here or is a different method? All I see is ADB crap.
If you research my name on here, I am far from stupid, I just find it odd that nearly no one has taken the time to create a REAL step-by-step guide. Although, I do see a lot of people saying things like "maaaaaan, if you can't root fo shizzzz, don't be doing this stuff, you aint smart enuffzzzzzzz" ... which is bull****. The whole point of having access to this type of stuff, the internet, and most technology is so that we can teach one another. Since when did it ever become a "every man for themselves" world?
http://forum.androidcentral.com/opt...optimus-v-rooting-roming-modding-hacking.html
Here you go
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=900905
Its everything you need, be patient and read the whole thing
Try this guide
[HOWTO] Rooting, Installing -Android SDK, Custom Recovery, Custom ROM's
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007244
Easiest way to install cutom recovery(hence, giving you the means to install custom ROMs)
My mini-guide on installing Amon_Ra custom recovery
Thank you all for the replies, however, not one of them references the Optimus V specifically.
I suppose what I am looking for is someone that has this phone, has rooted it, and installed custom ROMs to overclock it.
I ask not because I don't think I can figure it out, but rather I don't have time to go digging through 34534859034805934805 posts of other platforms and then apply it to my platform, the Optimus V.
I guess I would go ahead and say that it doesn't exist, and when I have time I will create a step-by-step to make it easier.
I just want to install a simple rom that allows me to OC the phone to 806MHz. I don't want Cyan, I don't even want Gingerbread. I just want the 2.2.1 installed to be running at 806MHz.
What I mean by the last comment is that there is not a step-by-step guide that shows from point A to point B. How to get from HERE to THERE.
For example:
Ungaze - While your post is quite simple, it doesn't address the fact that you also have to have many other things installed, correct? For instance, the Android SDK, and if that is the case, where does one get it? (I have it, I am just using this as an example). Where do I type the lines of code you are referring to? On the phone, or on the computer? Do you see what I am saying?
nootered said:
What I mean by the last comment is that there is not a step-by-step guide that shows from point A to point B. How to get from HERE to THERE.
For example:
Ungaze - While your post is quite simple, it doesn't address the fact that you also have to have many other things installed, correct? For instance, the Android SDK, and if that is the case, where does one get it? (I have it, I am just using this as an example). Where do I type the lines of code you are referring to? On the phone, or on the computer? Do you see what I am saying?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. You got it wrong. Ungaze's method for installing recovery does not depend on anything other than the requirements mentioned in his post ie. you do not need Android SDK or anything else.
type the lines of code in the terminal emulator app installed on your phone.
You can get it HERE.
If you read my post, you would see that I was using that as an example. There are clearly steps missing there. In other words, if someone just purchased the Optimus V, brought it home, and did those 4 steps listed, they would not be able to root and install custom ROMs.
I did some digging and just installed the Bumble Bee ROM and Kernel. Works great so far, and the phone is much snappier. I will be posting a step-by-step guide for the "stupid noobs" of the world later tonight. I think that the average joe should be able to enjoy these customizations as well. Call me crazy.
those steps (on ungaze's post) are not meant to root the phone or install custom ROM's on the phone, but only to install custom recovery on a rooted phone.
Haven't tested it myself, so I cannot guarantee that it will work.
I had used the instructions given in the 'step-by-step guide' I mentioned earlier. ie.
[HOWTO] Rooting, Installing - Android SDK, Custom Recovery, Custom ROM's
And, I had no problems in rooting, installing recovery and custom ROM on my phone which is an unbranded LG P500.
I have no experience with Optimus V, so to give instructions regarding installation would be futile.
Exactly, I am not putting you down, I was just stating that there is a not an easy step-by-step guide for people who are not Android savvy.
I will be posting a How-To and Troubleshooting Guide soon. To go from a new phone off the shelf to rooted and Bumble Bee ROM or the like.
nootered said:
If you read my post, you would see that I was using that as an example. There are clearly steps missing there. In other words, if someone just purchased the Optimus V, brought it home, and did those 4 steps listed, they would not be able to root and install custom ROMs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I was reading your first post I interpreted this:
I was able to Root it using the FastBoot method. Perfect. How the F bomb do I install custom Kernels and or Roms on this thing? Before I just formatted an SD card with CWR and flashed the kernels that way. Can I still do that on here or is a different method? All I see is ADB crap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
as, "I already have root so just tell me how to install custom ROMs already!!!!!", but it seems that it translates differently in your country/planet.
I hope you find someone to help you.
nootered said:
Thank you all for the replies, however, not one of them references the Optimus V specifically....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The very first reply that had the very first link was to a step by step guide just for Optimus V. It has every single recovery, rom, kernel, and hack for the Optimus V and a step by step guide on how to install them. You're just too lazy to read.
So to answer your question: yes, you are.
mmarz said:
The very first reply that had the very first link was to a step by step guide just for Optimus V. It has every single recovery, rom, kernel, and hack for the Optimus V and a step by step guide on how to install them. You're just too lazy to read.
So to answer your question: yes, you are.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL, you're so harsh. But I'd be lying if I say I don't agree .
Too lazy? I have it done and completed. I was referring to the fact that, for those who are not super savvy, there is no guide that leads them step by step from the time they get the phone home from the store.
I just think it would be nice to have sometime easy to follow. It has nothing to do with laziness, it has to be with providing users with a better experience. I work 60+hrs/week, and travel non-stop, I am far from lazy. I just don't have a lot of time, like many other people as well, to be reading through 8923843 "guides" that are misleading, filled with misinformation, or are incomplete.
nootered said:
Too lazy? I have it done and completed. I was referring to the fact that, for those who are not super savvy, there is no guide that leads them step by step from the time they get the phone home from the store.
I just think it would be nice to have sometime easy to follow. It has nothing to do with laziness, it has to be with providing users with a better experience. I work 60+hrs/week, and travel non-stop, I am far from lazy. I just don't have a lot of time, like many other people as well, to be reading through 8923843 "guides" that are misleading, filled with misinformation, or are incomplete.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I guess 83948720 of people here have got it right with no complaints at all about the guides which are misleading and filled with misinformation and are of course incomplete.
Let's get the facts straight. If you made this post/thread of yours asking for help, then here we are, helping you out to the best we can, did we not? Now, if you come here whining about the guides being incomplete and incomprehensible to your "far from stupid" intellect then you're getting no where as no one is paying anyone here. these guides are here to help each other in exchange of nothing. The guides we make, we make it with our free time. Post as many threads like this as you want and trust me, you won't get anywhere. Now, if you come here asking people to make you a guide for you, then I suggest chaning your first post message to something like this:
"go#$am(it, make me a guide specifically for people with no time to research and easy enough that even my dog can do it for me. I have no time to check everything so don't even think of missing one bit of information. I don't care if you don't have enough time cause I don't have enough time to understand your situation. So get to work and give me my damn guide NOW"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess that would clear up most of the misunderstandings.
HOLY SHAT! It's like talking to a retard with a plastic bag over his head.
I don't need help, I was/am able to figure it out. I just wanted a simple step by step guide. Point A to Point B. Simple.
I am referring to all of the other posts I have read on here. Look under the Nook Color information for guides that I have created for others. I am about helping people, and making things simple.
For some reason it seems as though the majority of the people here have huge egos. Sure they have this facade of helpful gleam, but they all write crap like "if you question is stupid don't bother" ... "if you don't know what this is, you're an idiot don't try this" ... since when is that a logical and helpful way to making people learn or understand concepts they are new to?
You obviously never clicked that link.
mmarz said:
You obviously never clicked that link.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did click the link, actually. It was the most helpful. Thanks.
Actually after clicking the first link i get "only registered and activated members can see links" about 400 times
That's not what the OP, or I, am looking for!
And the other links with 800 different fonts and colours are not helpful to people. try and format your stuff like you mean it, not like a fairy threw up on your guide! this isn't geocities!

[Q] Questions about the basic firmware apps...

Hey, I just bought a Samsung Galaxy S3 I9300 and so far I think it's the best!
I have been checking this site a lot to get an idea of what I'm actually buying and now I would like you pros to teach me a few things if you've got the time.
1) I got my device already rooted, though i know how to do it myself.
When I got it there was SuperSU and ClockworkMod Recovery installed on it.
I checked a bit on the internet and couldn't quite get what ClockworkMod is for... When is it mainly useful?
2) I keep reading about CyanogenMod being used in order to update my firmware... but I also read about it being used with ClockworkMod... probably for backup purposes? Care to explain what it is used for?
3) Which leads me to my final question. I search a lot on the internet and came across posts that say that Android 4.2.2 should be released on May/June... I also noticed a lot of websites saying there are already ways to get the update with apps like CyanogenMod.
So is it really safe to get it already? I know I should backup everything anyways just in case but will it be any different from when the official update comes out?
Thank you for your patience and sorry for being a noob
unknown2u2a said:
Hey, I just bought a Samsung Galaxy S3 I9300 and so far I think it's the best!
I have been checking this site a lot to get an idea of what I'm actually buying and now I would like you pros to teach me a few things if you've got the time.
1) I got my device already rooted, though i know how to do it myself.
When I got it there was SuperSU and ClockworkMod Recovery installed on it.
I checked a bit on the internet and couldn't quite get what ClockworkMod is for... When is it mainly useful?
2) I keep reading about CyanogenMod being used in order to update my firmware... but I also read about it being used with ClockworkMod... probably for backup purposes? Care to explain what it is used for?
3) Which leads me to my final question. I search a lot on the internet and came across posts that say that Android 4.2.2 should be released on May/June... I also noticed a lot of websites saying there are already ways to get the update with apps like CyanogenMod.
So is it really safe to get it already? I know I should backup everything anyways just in case but will it be any different from when the official update comes out?
Thank you for your patience and sorry for being a noob
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Woah you've got everything upside down. Read some of the sticky threads and FAQ's as this is all answered there but you do appear to be massively confused.
rootSU said:
Woah you've got everything upside down. Read some of the sticky threads and FAQ's as this is all answered there but you do appear to be massively confused.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have read the sticky threads and the FAQs and it does not say what ClockworkMod and CyanogenMod do exactly... that's why I posted this thread.
Oh, and I watched the noob video :silly: I'm not posting this for no reason...
Would you please explain it to me?
unknown2u2a said:
I have read the sticky threads and the FAQs and it does not say what ClockworkMod and CyanogenMod do exactly... that's why I posted this thread.
Oh, and I watched the noob video :silly: I'm not posting this for no reason...
Would you please explain it to me?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK.
It's quite complicated, so bear with me.
Your device before rooted, consists of:
An Android OS (Your Main phone operating system)
A Recovery OS (Another operating system that is used to do things like factory reset your device if you cannot boot into Android)
Bootloader (This is the first thing that boots. It wil choose if you boot into android or recovery, depending on if you press any buttons at boot up)
So that is the BASIC OS layout.
When you root, often your stock recovery is replaced with a custom one. This is usually ClockworkMod recovery. There are other alternatives though. This recovery can be used to take backups of the phone and flash Custom Android ROMs and mods (Flashable zips). Sometimes, ClockworkMod recovery (CWM) has an app (CWM manager) to help you reboot into recovery. Although you can just hold volume up and home, then press power to turn on the device and boot into recovery.
CyanogenMod are one of the most famous develiopment teams of custom ROMs. There are 2 types of custom roms on the S3. Those that are directly built on Samsung Android ROMs (with touchwiz and all that jazz) and ones based directly on Google source code (Known as AOSP or Android Open Source Project).
There are a few famous AOSP develpment teams.
CyanogenMod (CM)
AOKP (Android Open Kang Project)
Paranoid Android (AOSPA)
These are much more like what you get on a Nexus device instead of the Samsung devices.
When rooting, or if you have a custom ROM, you need an app called SuperUser or SuperSU which manages applications root access. Any app that needs root access, requests it from SuperSU or SuperUser which prompts you if you want to allow it. See it as a gatekeeper, or a layer of security for your benefit.
Hope this helps.
Not complicated at all
Thank you for clearing that out.
So what about 4.2.2? I read that I can install a custom mod of it but that the official s3 i9300 update isn't out yet.
Does that mean it's risky or might have different features from the official update?
Thanks again for your time!
unknown2u2a said:
Not complicated at all
Thank you for clearing that out.
So what about 4.2.2? I read that I can install a custom mod of it but that the official s3 i9300 update isn't out yet.
Does that mean it's risky or might have different features from the official update?
Thanks again for your time!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung builds are up to 4.1.2 currently. There is an unoffical leak of 4.2.1
If you go to an AOSP build of 4.2.2, you will lose all the samsung features. We're unsure when the Sammy 4.2.2 will come.
Gotcha!
So I guess it's better to wait to the official update then take the risk...
Thank you very much for your help!!
unknown2u2a said:
Gotcha!
So I guess it's better to wait to the official update then take the risk...
Thank you very much for your help!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends on your outlook. I cant make that call for you
rootSU said:
Depends on your outlook. I cant make that call for you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nahh... I can wait a few months without all the features they say come with 4.2.2...
Even if the custom ROM will be in any way better, it'll still exist...

First time installing a custom ROM, I need some hand holding

Hey folks.
The S4 is my first smartphone. Ever. I rooted it a few weeks ago and have been playing with different tools and utilities. I love the extra control it gives me.
Been using Smartlauncher Pro as my launcher as well, but it doesn't give me the customization I want. I dig the UI though, it's minimalist just the way I like.
I've been keeping my eye out for ROM's I can try out, and I think I want to try Cynogen for the S4. However, I am terrified of destroying my investment. I've read horror stories of flashes gone wrong... I don't want to permanently brick my device.
Is there anyone here who can hold my hand while I install my ROM? I seriously have no idea what I'm doing, instructions or no.
...I sound so pathetic right now.
Thanks folks.
shaddz said:
Hey folks.
The S4 is my first smartphone. Ever. I rooted it a few weeks ago and have been playing with different tools and utilities. I love the extra control it gives me.
Been using Smartlauncher Pro as my launcher as well, but it doesn't give me the customization I want. I dig the UI though, it's minimalist just the way I like.
I've been keeping my eye out for ROM's I can try out, and I think I want to try Cynogen for the S4. However, I am terrified of destroying my investment. I've read horror stories of flashes gone wrong... I don't want to permanently brick my device.
Is there anyone here who can hold my hand while I install my ROM? I seriously have no idea what I'm doing, instructions or no.
...I sound so pathetic right now.
Thanks folks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have a custom recovery installed like TWRP or CWM? If you do all you need to do is download the rom (I put them on ext sd)....and gapps if your flashing cyanogen, boot into recovery, make a backup (I put this on my ext sd card too), wipe, flash rom, flash gapps and reboot.
shaddz said:
Hey folks.
The S4 is my first smartphone. Ever. I rooted it a few weeks ago and have been playing with different tools and utilities. I love the extra control it gives me.
Been using Smartlauncher Pro as my launcher as well, but it doesn't give me the customization I want. I dig the UI though, it's minimalist just the way I like.
I've been keeping my eye out for ROM's I can try out, and I think I want to try Cynogen for the S4. However, I am terrified of destroying my investment. I've read horror stories of flashes gone wrong... I don't want to permanently brick my device.
Is there anyone here who can hold my hand while I install my ROM? I seriously have no idea what I'm doing, instructions or no.
...I sound so pathetic right now.
Thanks folks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi!
The first thing you need to find out is what build number you have. This will tell you if you are able to root and install recovery in order to put a new rom on the phone. Do NOT update your phone by the over the air update that is currently available! To find your build number go to settings: the more tab: about phone, then scroll down. If you have JDQ39.I545VRUAME7 then you are in the same boat as many of us and accidently did the upgrade which at this moment has no way to root. If you haven't done the upgrade than you need to find one of the many threads on here that will walk you through the process.
Hope this helps some, there are others on here that can give you a much more detailed walkthrough of how to root if you are on the correct older build.
The best advice I can give is to read the entire original post (OP) for the ROM you like, and as much of the thread as you can. 9 times out of 10 when someone has a problem with the ROM it's been discussed, and is often listed in the OP. Usually there are step by step instructions on installing the ROM. I believe there's a general ROM flashing guide in this forum somewhere as well.
Good luck and have fun :good:
Questions and help issues go in Q&A and Help section
Thread moved
FNM
shaddz said:
Hey folks.
The S4 is my first smartphone. Ever. I rooted it a few weeks ago and have been playing with different tools and utilities. I love the extra control it gives me.
Been using Smartlauncher Pro as my launcher as well, but it doesn't give me the customization I want. I dig the UI though, it's minimalist just the way I like.
I've been keeping my eye out for ROM's I can try out, and I think I want to try Cynogen for the S4. However, I am terrified of destroying my investment. I've read horror stories of flashes gone wrong... I don't want to permanently brick my device.
Is there anyone here who can hold my hand while I install my ROM? I seriously have no idea what I'm doing, instructions or no.
...I sound so pathetic right now.
Thanks folks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to start reading, period.
srphoenix said:
Hi!
The first thing you need to find out is what build number you have. This will tell you if you are able to root and install recovery in order to put a new rom on the phone. Do NOT update your phone by the over the air update that is currently available! To find your build number go to settings: the more tab: about phone, then scroll down. If you have JDQ39.I545VRUAME7 then you are in the same boat as many of us and accidently did the upgrade which at this moment has no way to root. If you haven't done the upgrade than you need to find one of the many threads on here that will walk you through the process.
Hope this helps some, there are others on here that can give you a much more detailed walkthrough of how to root if you are on the correct older build.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
JDQ39.I545VRUAMDK is the version I have. I froze the updater using Titanium a couple weeks ago... And my phone is already rooted.
shaddz said:
JDQ39.I545VRUAMDK is the version I have. I froze the updater using Titanium a couple weeks ago... And my phone is already rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's good! You haven't been updated which means you can still flash ROMs. Are you familiar with both types of ROMs, TouchWiz and AOSP? CyanogenMod is an AOSP ROM, which will be completely different from what you're running right now, TouchWiz. You're rooted, but have you installed a custom recovery? You need one to flash ROM's, either TWRP or CWM. You can also make a nandroid backup in recovery, and if anything goes wrong, you can go back to exactly how you are now. Definitely read the OP of the ROM thread multiple times and follow the flashing instructions correctly.
thesoldier said:
That's good! You haven't been updated which means you can still flash ROMs. Are you familiar with both types of ROMs, TouchWiz and AOSP? CyanogenMod is an AOSP ROM, which will be completely different from what you're running right now, TouchWiz. You're rooted, but have you installed a custom recovery? You need one to flash ROM's, either TWRP or CWM. You can also make a nandroid backup in recovery, and if anything goes wrong, you can go back to exactly how you are now. Definitely read the OP of the ROM thread multiple times and follow the flashing instructions correctly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, I just made a full phone backup using GooManager/TWRP.
Now for the next step...
shaddz said:
Okay, I just made a full phone backup using GooManager/TWRP.
Now for the next step...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If anything goes wrong with the flash in the next step, go to restore and you'll be back to how you are now.
Did you download the ROM to your phone along with Gapps? For AOSP Roms you need a separate gapps package, which is Google apps.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
thesoldier said:
If anything goes wrong with the flash in the next step, go to restore and you'll be back to how you are now.
Did you download the ROM to your phone along with Gapps? For AOSP Roms you need a separate gapps package, which is Google apps.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just started the download for gapps package using Goomanager.
I checked out the Cyanogenmod site, apparently there's no stable versions for the VZW GS4?
Oh wells, flash anyway! That's what I do!
Worst case scenario, you have to use Odin to get back to stock. I used to keep a nandroid on my PC for just in case scenarios as well. One time on my GNex I flashed something really bad and had to adb pull everything off my phone, wipe the whole thing, and start over.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
jova33 said:
Oh wells, flash anyway! That's what I do!
Worst case scenario, you have to use Odin to get back to stock. I used to keep a nandroid on my PC for just in case scenarios as well. One time on my GNex I flashed something really bad and had to adb pull everything off my phone, wipe the whole thing, and start over.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Downloading the most recent nightly.
What do I do to get it on here?
shaddz said:
Downloading the most recent nightly.
What do I do to get it on here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah you'll have to download a nightly, I don't think there are any stable versions out yet. Are you downloading it directly on your phone? Or on your PC?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Thread cleaned of useless comments.
Thread is also closed - as XDA, even though full of helpful and nice people, is not a direct support site.
Users are expected to do some reading before they post and blatantly ask for hand holding. And, as you have seen, other users have a tendency to not be so nice and make trolling comments because of that.
This is a development site and is about development - so, please, study up first, then post questions based from what you have learned.

[Q] Samsung Galaxy S II Rooting Question(s)

Hello,
I would like to Root my S II and I have some questions before I do it:
If I install a ROM, do I really have to factory reset before that? If yes, why? and Can I back up all application data easly?
Can I remove the TouchWiz home and get the google's stock one?
What can "brick" my phone?
How big danger risk does it have?
Is it worth it?
I hope I get answers to these questions.
1) Yes. Because previous rom installations can often leave behind stuff that won't play nice with your new rom. Always do a wipe when moving from a TW rom to an AOSP rom & vice versa, always do a wipe when going from one Android version to another. Always do a wipe if the flashing instructions for a particular rom say do a wipe.
Yes, backup your application data with Titanium Backup Pro (but not system apps/data). You can also use Ti to backup call logs & SMS's.
2) If you mean launchers, you can use whatever launchers are compatible with the rom you're wanting to use. This will vary; look/ask in the thread devoted to the rom.
3) Any flash (either Odin or CWM) has the potential to brick your phone. If you
ensure you know what you're doing before you do it, the risk for any individual flash is very very small. You cannot completely remove this risk.
4) I answered this in 3.
5) If you're asking 'is it worth it (rooting) ?, you should be first asking yourself the question 'Why do I want to root my phone ?' If you can't answer that question, the risks involved may not be worth it, because that shows you don't really know what you're doing at this point. Don't do anything to your phone until you do know exactly what you're doing. Ignoring this tends to lead to busted phones. And I've seen probably thousands on here over the past 2 & a bit yrs.
If you really can't answer the question or you find all the guides/tutorials on here too hard, I'd suggest you leave your phone stock. 'Because it's cool' isn't really much of an answer (there's nothing cool about it; technically speaking, it's rather boring).
Now then, if you're up for a lot of reading & learning, there are threads stickied near the top of Q&A & also an index of guides/tutorials stickied near the top of General you should be reading.
MistahBungle said:
1) Yes. Because previous rom installations can often leave behind stuff that won't play nice with your new rom. Always do a wipe when moving from a TW rom to an AOSP rom & vice versa, always do a wipe when going from one Android version to another. Always do a wipe if the flashing instructions for a particular rom say do a wipe.
Yes, backup your application data with Titanium Backup Pro (but not system apps/data). You can also use Ti to backup call logs & SMS's.
2) If you mean launchers, you can use whatever launchers are compatible with the rom you're wanting to use. This will vary; look/ask in the thread devoted to the rom.
5) If you're asking 'is it worth it (rooting) ?, you should be first asking yourself the question 'Why do I want to root my phone ?' If you can't answer that question, the risks involved may not be worth it, because that shows you don't really know what you're doing at this point. Don't do anything to your phone until you do know exactly what you're doing. Ignoring this tends to lead to busted phones. And I've seen probably thousands on here over the past 2 & a bit yrs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!
1) Doesn't Titanium Backup cost? Can It backup anything else that app data and call logs?
2) I don't mean launchers (avaivable from google play) really, Those drain battery faster (I think). I want to remove TouchWiz and get the google's stock launcher, style, everything.
5) That was a joke question. I should know it myself.
tonkku107 said:
Thanks!
1) Doesn't Titanium Backup cost? Can It backup anything else that app data and call logs?
2) I don't mean launchers (avaivable from google play) really, Those drain battery faster (I think). I want to remove TouchWiz and get the google's stock launcher, style, everything.
5) That was a joke question. I should know it myself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) You can use the free version as well, although there are missing features in there.
2) If you want to get rid of Touchwiz, use a non-Samsung-based rom, or have a look for Chameleon rom.
Donnie Sins said:
1) You can use the free version as well, although there are missing features in there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What features are missing?
tonkku107 said:
What features are missing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use super back app for backing app call logs , contacts ,message ..
Very handy imo
Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
tonkku107 said:
What features are missing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just read the info in the Play Store. I'm not the developer
Thanks everyone for replying!
I would like to know what rooting guide worked for you. (best)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1501719 I want to know for sure is that REALLY a good quide.
and was that ClockWorkMod to overclock, or what was it?
1) clockworkmod is not used to over clock your ROM.....that is controlled by a custom kernel.
2) the rooting method in your link is how I rooted my phone when I was on stock ICS......There *may* be a risk when using that method....basically you DON'T want to do any cwm wiping after using this method to root until you have flashed a custom kernel on top of it. Search for and read about "emmc brickbug" to find out why.
3) Titanium Backup is one of the most useful apps that anybody running a rooted phone can buy......TOTALLY worth the pocket change to get it......
once you're rooted and running your 1st cusROM, you'll get bitten by the modding bug very quickly and then TiBu will come into its own......
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
keithross39 said:
1) clockworkmod is not used to over clock your ROM.....that is controlled by a custom kernel.
2) the rooting method in your link is how I rooted my phone when I was on stock ICS......There *may* be a risk when using that method....basically you DON'T want to do any cwm wiping after using this method to root until you have flashed a custom kernel on top of it. Search for and read about "emmc brickbug" to find out why.
3) Titanium Backup is one of the most useful apps that anybody running a rooted phone can buy......TOTALLY worth the pocket change to get it......
once you're rooted and running your 1st cusROM, you'll get bitten by the modding bug very quickly and then TiBu will come into its own......
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
modding bug? And, I should root, install a custom rom, and then I can/need to wipe?
If you use your linked method to root, you'll have a 'temporary' CWM that some say it'd be best NOT to use for wiping......
You need to do things in this order.....
1) root your phone with the method in your link.
2) install a custom kernel zip using the temporary CWM installed at stage 1.
3) use the permanent CWM that will be installed at stage 2 to do the wipes.(VERY important when moving from stock to custom).
4) use CWM to flash your chosen ROM.
You can bypass steps 1 & 2 by simply using Odin to directly flash the custom kernel.......the choice is yours.....
The most popular custom kernels are siyah or dorimanx.....it shouldn't matter too much which one you choose as it'll be overwritten when you flash the ROM.....flashing the kernel is just a 'means to an end'......
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
keithross39 said:
If you use your linked method to root, you'll have a 'temporary' CWM that some say it'd be best NOT to use for wiping......
You need to do things in this order.....
1) root your phone with the method in your link.
2) install a custom kernel zip using the temporary CWM installed at stage 1.
3) use the permanent CWM that will be installed at stage 2 to do the wipes.(VERY important when moving from stock to custom).
4) use CWM to flash your chosen ROM.
You can bypass steps 1 & 2 by simply using Odin to directly flash the custom kernel.......the choice is yours.....
The most popular custom kernels are siyah or dorimanx.....it shouldn't matter too much which one you choose as it'll be overwritten when you flash the ROM.....flashing the kernel is just a 'means to an end'......
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to make sure I got it: I do that everything on the same time on recovery mode without booting my phone? (does it even matter)
I found this guide with odin: http://technoxone.com/mobile/android/how-to-root-samsung-galaxy-s2-i9100-easy-steps Is it safer?
Is a Custom "OS" a kernel? Witch of those did you take?
Again questions... I must ask questions in case I do something wrong...
Don't worry about asking questions........it's better to ask and get it right than to NOT ask and turn your phone into a paperweight. I don't mind answering questions if you're prepared to search, read and learn as well.
The kernel can be installed separately to the OS......while most custom ROMs include a kernel with the package, the kernel in itself is a separate part of the software.....in simple terms, the kernel is what allows the hardware to talk to the OS......it's what makes the phone/OS do what you want when you touch the screen.
With regards to the link in your last post, having read some of the comments, there seems to be some 'worry' about the compatibility of the kernel download that the author provides for use. Another point to think about.......
XDA is the primary source for information and tools in the Android community. Most other websites get their information here, and some don't display/use it correctly.....some time ago, I saw a number of threads where people said they'd followed the instructions on another website and ended up with bricked phones.......
There are guides 'stickeyed' at the top of the various S2 sections here on XDA that tell you EVERYTHING you need to know......take a look and find out the info you need.....right here.....
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
keithross39 said:
Don't worry about asking questions........it's better to ask and get it right than to NOT ask and turn your phone into a paperweight. I don't mind answering questions if you're prepared to search, read and learn as well.
The kernel can be installed separately to the OS......while most custom ROMs include a kernel with the package, the kernel in itself is a separate part of the software.....in simple terms, the kernel is what allows the hardware to talk to the OS......it's what makes the phone/OS do what you want when you touch the screen.
With regards to the link in your last post, having read some of the comments, there seems to be some 'worry' about the compatibility of the kernel download that the author provides for use. Another point to think about.......
XDA is the primary source for information and tools in the Android community. Most other websites get their information here, and some don't display/use it correctly.....some time ago, I saw a number of threads where people said they'd followed the instructions on another website and ended up with bricked phones.......
There are guides 'stickeyed' at the top of the various S2 sections here on XDA that tell you EVERYTHING you need to know......take a look and find out the info you need.....right here.....
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, so the chameleon OS that Donnie Sins told about has a custom kernel? Do you know better custom roms than chameleon?
I'm going to go read EVERYTHING I need to know...... right here.......
Yes.... Chameleon (the same as any other custom ROM has a custom kernel) it won't be as heavily customized as some are.....chameleon ROM is a 'hybrid' ROM..... that is to say it is a stock based ROM with custom tweaks and modifications included........
Some custom kernels will allow things like under volting and overclocking and a whole host of other 'non standard' functions.....
This might be my S2 or it might be my W, but it's definitely CM...
I want to post this in the development forum but I can't since this is a new account. So, I want to ask does this rooting method ( http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2065581 ) work for JB stock rom I9100GDXLS2 on my GT-19100G?
keithross39 said:
Some custom kernels will allow things like under volting and overclocking and a whole host of other 'non standard' functions.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what custom kernels have those?
And you didn't answer to this?:
tonkku107 said:
Just to make sure I got it: I do that everything on the same time on recovery mode without booting my phone? (does it even matter)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
[A]zan said:
I want to post this in the development forum but I can't since this is a new account. So, I want to ask does this rooting method ( http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2065581 ) work for JB stock rom I9100GDXLS2 on my GT-19100G?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't any rooting method support any rom?
tonkku107 said:
Doesn't any rooting method support any rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I don't really know the flexibility of the other rooting method. But, this method, I've read some post that it does not work with some stock rom.
Hellooo...
Should I also install gapps?
What's the thing to overclock?
Can someone link a rooting method with odin if it's more stable?
And please answer the questions a bit on top

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