Hi people. This is my 3rd android device. Two samsung products, and now the Z ultra.
So I have no idea what people are talking about... I'm used to ODIN... so is flashtool a similar piece of software?
My xperia Z hasn't arrived yet, Im just trying to get my head around sony and the way their devices are run..
So.. questions...
1. Backup your TA partition (I read that this has important info that I don't want to loose... Do i do this with flashtool? Do i also reflash this partition at a later date?)
2. Unlock your bootloader (Why are some people not unlocking bootloader... Do I understand correctly that some features will stop working... like x-reality?? If so, can't they just be reactivated with a custom ROM?)
3. I see there is a recovery for locked bootloaders... (can you still flash kernel's custom ROM's zips using CWM with a locked bootloader?)
Ive spent 3 days looking on the threads here, but I think because of my previous devices I have a preconceived idea of what i should be doing.. I'm confused.
hamdogg said:
Hi people. This is my 3rd android device. Two samsung products, and now the Z ultra.
So I have no idea what people are talking about... I'm used to ODIN... so is flashtool a similar piece of software???
My xperia Z hasn't arrived yet, Im just trying to get my head around sony and the way their devices are run..
So.. questions...
1. Backup your TA partition (I read that this has important info that I don't want to loose... Do i do this with flashtool?? Do i also reflash this partition at a later date?)
2. Unlock your bootloader (Why are some people not unlocking bootloader... Do I understand correctly that some features will stop working... like x-reality?? If so, can't they just be reactivated with a custom ROM?)
3. I see there is a recovery for locked bootloaders... (can you still flash kernel's custom ROM's zips using CWM with a locked bootloader?)
Ive spent 3 days looking on the threads here, but I think because of my previous devices I have a preconceived idea of what i should be doing.. I'm confused.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh thanks god!! I have been waiting for someone to ask... I didn't want to get labeled as a noob! :b
greggCc said:
Oh thanks god!! I have been waiting for someone to ask... I didn't want to get labeled as a noob! :b
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now everyone knows you're a n00b!
First of all, the minus of unlocking bootloader is losing your DRM keys. To do this, sony has provided us an official way through their website (just google it). Or you can do this via flashtool too. After unlocking, you will lose xreality engine and won't get FW update from sony anymore through official means (pcc or ota, but you can always flash). Some says trackID will be lost, too, but hey, who use it anyway?
The plus is, you entered godmode for flashing anything into your phone.
Unlocked bootloader can be relocked through flashtool, but relocked is not the same as locked, because xreality is still lost, cmiiw. To restore to original locked state, use backupTA (search thread in xda) BEFORE unlocking bootloader. And backupTA needs root, so we need root w/o unlock bootloader first (already plenty in other threads).
And yeah, what a maze this is.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Now everyone knows you're a n00b!
First of all, the minus of unlocking bootloader is losing your DRM keys. To do this, sony has provided us an official way through their website (just google it). Or you can do this via flashtool too. After unlocking, you will lose xreality engine and won't get FW update from sony anymore through official means (pcc or ota, but you can always flash). Some says trackID will be lost, too, but hey, who use it anyway?
The plus is, you entered godmode for flashing anything into your phone.
Unlocked bootloader can be relocked through flashtool, but relocked is not the same as locked, because xreality is still lost, cmiiw. To restore to original locked state, use backupTA (search thread in xda) BEFORE unlocking bootloader. And backupTA needs root, so we need root w/o unlock bootloader first (already plenty in other threads).
And yeah, what a maze this is.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thanks, that confirmed what i thought about bootloader..
Can you still flash VIA CWM with a locked bootloader?
otherwise as i understand it...
1) root device
2) backup TA parition
3) unlock bootloader
4) flash ROM/kernel/etc
5) reflash TA partition.
done... custom ROM with x-reality support?
hamdogg said:
Ok thanks, that confirmed what i thought about bootloader..
Can you still flash VIA CWM with a locked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Limited options. Most ROMs required unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Limited options. Most ROMs required unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so there will be some ROM's that don't require an unlocked bootloader??
Why are not all ROM's like this, then x-reality / track ID's would not be a problem...
hamdogg said:
so there will be some ROM's that don't require an unlocked bootloader??
Why are not all ROM's like this, then x-reality / track ID's would not be a problem...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it's harder to make, apparently. Currently even custom recovery for locked bootloader is not finished yet. Check the development section. And flashing things that normally isn't allowed on locked does have limitations, check in other xperia devices threads.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Well it's harder to make, apparently. Currently even custom recovery for locked bootloader is not finished yet. Check the development section. And flashing things that normally isn't allowed on locked does have limitations, check in other xperia devices threads.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok... say I have flashed a ROM... i can then flash the TA partition and then I have that ROM with x-reality working?
hamdogg said:
ok... say I have flashed a ROM... i can then flash the TA partition and then I have that ROM with x-reality working?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually on firmware .510 with unlocked bootloader and I still have Xreality. Making your Ta backup is mainly to be able to restore your device in case of softbrick or restore your phone to stock.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
bASKOU said:
Actually on firmware .510 with unlocked bootloader and I still have Xreality. Making your Ta backup is mainly to be able to restore your device in case of softbrick or restore your phone to stock.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read that members running 510 have the reality box to check, but most say it doesn't make a difference, and that its not working in the album
hamdogg said:
I read that members running 510 have the reality box to check, but most say it doesn't make a difference, and that its not working in the album
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right i don't see difference on album. But I see it on videos.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
I am looking at getting the phone too. From what I understand is when your bootloader is locked, it will only load signed boot partitions. So any modification to the boot partition outside of the official stock kernel will not boot when locked. So installing any custom kernel (OC/UV/etc) with stock rom needs unlocked bootloader, or installing CM (which has it's own kernel anyway). So best is getting custom roms (only modified system) with stock kernel.
Also like already said, unlocked bootloader means no updates from Sony. I would backup TA at all costs anyway.
I doubt stock kernel supports kexec, but I guess you can hack the system init process to load different ramdisks. Which is why I guess they are having trouble with locked bootloaders with recovery ramdisks in the dev forum.
I am waiting for the C6806. Here are my plans:
1. Root using vroot (hope it doesn't infect TA with something ;o)
2. Backup TA Partition
3. Unlock
4. Deal with loss of DRM
5. Install whatever ROM/kernel for daily usage
6. (maybe make official TWRP)
7. Get official updates by restoring TA partition, stock kernel if necessary
or...
1. Root using vroot
2. Backup TA Paritition
3. Stick with stock kernel
4. Help with getting locked 2nd ramdisk working with stock init
5. Is the stock ROM awesome enough? (Not sure since we don't have 4.3 )
Also hoping info comes out about ATT bootloader soon on Note 3.
LTE phone is out by 9/25 I am thinking with US warranty support. (C6806)
bigbiff said:
I am looking at getting the phone too. From what I understand is when your bootloader is locked, it will only load signed boot partitions. So any modification to the boot partition outside of the official stock kernel will not boot when locked. So installing any custom kernel (OC/UV/etc) with stock rom needs unlocked bootloader, or installing CM (which has it's own kernel anyway). So best is getting custom roms (only modified system) with stock kernel.
Also like already said, unlocked bootloader means no updates from Sony. I would backup TA at all costs anyway.
I doubt stock kernel supports kexec, but I guess you can hack the system init process to load different ramdisks. Which is why I guess they are having trouble with locked bootloaders with recovery ramdisks in the dev forum.
I am waiting for the C6806. Here are my plans:
1. Root using vroot (hope it doesn't infect TA with something ;o)
2. Backup TA Partition
3. Unlock
4. Deal with loss of DRM
5. Install whatever ROM/kernel for daily usage
6. (maybe make official TWRP)
7. Get official updates by restoring TA partition, stock kernel if necessary
or...
1. Root using vroot
2. Backup TA Paritition
3. Stick with stock kernel
4. Help with getting locked 2nd ramdisk working with stock init
5. Is the stock ROM awesome enough? (Not sure since we don't have 4.3 )
Also hoping info comes out about ATT bootloader soon on Note 3.
LTE phone is out by 9/25 I am thinking with US warranty support. (C6806)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your thoughts biff...
I was also going to wait for the LTE version, however only two cities have it in my country, and I rarely travel to them, and the added price made be think again...
Thanks to all for their contributions on this thread especially op for having the balls to expose his new noob levels I'm coming from Samsung note and this has helped put things in perspective.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
SpyderTracks said:
Thanks to all for their contributions on this thread especially op for having the balls to expose his new noob levels I'm coming from Samsung note and this has helped put things in perspective.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol nobody should be ashamed to be a noob. We are all noobs to some extend, we learn and improve. I am a big noob on Sony devices as well and a huge noob when it come to development hahahhaa
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
I've just ordered mine, should be delivered day after tomorrow. Wait is almost over!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
SpyderTracks said:
I've just ordered mine, should be delivered day after tomorrow. Wait is almost over!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
haha.. no problem!
I know samsung devices very well, and am no noob there.. But sony... yes, I know basically nothing. We all have to start somewhere.. :silly:
hamdogg said:
haha.. no problem!
I know samsung devices very well, and am no noob there.. But sony... yes, I know basically nothing. We all have to start somewhere.. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jeez, this is a nice phone!
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium HD app
SpyderTracks said:
Jeez, this is a nice phone!
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my wait is nearly over... customs called... gotta pay import duty (ARSE!!!)
but will have it Monday... Boom!!
Related
Since large part of us might get their Z2s this week (hopefully including me :silly, I'd like to know what options we have to make our Xperias secure with soon-to-arrive custom ROMs.
From what I managed to find, the most convenient option (at least theoretically) would be to:
- unlock bootloader
- flash custom recovery
- flash custom ROM
- reflash stock recovery to prevent lockscreen bypass and adb access in general
- relock bootloader to prevent flashing custom recovery and regaining adb by potential attacker.
- then if needed, reflash recovery online if rooted, reflash new/updated ROM, reflash stock recovery back
Now, I've read that Xperia Z2 (other Zs probably as well) will softbrick with locked botloader and custom ROM/kernel, rendering this method useless. Am I right?
If yes, what other options do we have?
all i know for sure is its more complicated than samsung models n im gonna wait till there a way to root it without messing with the bootloader
-Unlock bootloader
-Flash kernel of the ROM you want (DooMKernel for stock based)
-Boot into the recovery that's baked into the kernel
-Flash the ROM you want
All AOSP ROM's require fastbooting the kernel from the zip (unless stated).
Sent from my LT18i using Tapatalk
numskull said:
all i know for sure is its more complicated than samsung models n im gonna wait till there a way to root it without messing with the bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cam from Samsung also, but really not difficult to unlock Bootloader at all actually.
waynekirby said:
-Unlock bootloader
-Flash kernel of the ROM you want (DooMKernel for stock based)
-Boot into the recovery that's baked into the kernel
-Flash the ROM you want
All AOSP ROM's require fastbooting the kernel from the zip (unless stated).
Sent from my LT18i using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So there is no way to block access to recovery after flashing custom ROM?
Also sorry for probably dumb question (I'm new to Xperias): do you maybe know if current recoveries baked into CM support encryption? I know there is no CM for Z2 yet, I'm asking about current Z series phones.
Garaddon said:
So there is no way to block access to recovery after flashing custom ROM?
Also sorry for probably dumb question (I'm new to Xperias): do you maybe know if current recoveries baked into CM support encryption? I know there is no CM for Z2 yet, I'm asking about current Z series phones.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well... On newer Xperia's (2012+) you can flash a recovery to the TArecovery partition, so you could remove it I suppose... But if the kernel you are using has a custom recovery baked in (they usually do on Xperia) then you could flash back the stock kernel, if you don't want recovery on stock based ROM. but as far as CM is concerned, you cannot remove recovery.
And yes all CM has recovery baked into Xperia kernels. We'll have official CM support from FXP team as soon as they receive their device too. Good times ahead
Sent from my LT18i using Tapatalk
shollywood said:
I cam from Samsung also, but really not difficult to unlock Bootloader at all actually.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not so much the unlocking of the bootloader that bothers me, i reckon i could do that. Its more the effects of it, what gets lost, stops working properly etc
numskull said:
Its not so much the unlocking of the bootloader that bothers me, i reckon i could do that. Its more the effects of it, what gets lost, stops working properly etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What gets lost or stops working properly?
shollywood said:
What gets lost or stops working properly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure, thats why i aint doing nothing to it, apparently theres a folder that contains licence keys, which you will lose when you unlock bootloader. until i know a bit more about it, i aint messing with it
shollywood said:
What gets lost or stops working properly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You lose the DRM keys. You can't keep the DRM keys if you root as of yet, because you have to unlock bootloader to root, and you can't do TA backup without root. Vicious circle.
Xernoxis said:
You lose the DRM keys. You can't keep the DRM keys if you root as of yet, because you have to unlock bootloader to root, and you can't do TA backup without root. Vicious circle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What would I need the keys for? Sony sends the code to unlock the bootloader.
Music info, X-Reality engine stops working and so on...
Sent from my LT18i using Tapatalk
Xernoxis said:
You lose the DRM keys. You can't keep the DRM keys if you root as of yet, because you have to unlock bootloader to root, and you can't do TA backup without root. Vicious circle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was the one, i knew it was something important. thats why im waiting till there a root without unlocking, i could probably manage without most of it, but i want the bravia engine working and any other screen or audio stuff it affects, altho i was wondering, could you not just redownload the stuff you want and in doing so aquire new keys?? or is it not that simple?
waynekirby said:
Music info, X-Reality engine stops working and so on...
Sent from my LT18i using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mine all seems to still work...odd
shollywood said:
Mine all seems to still work...odd
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This were from what happened on XT, XZ etc... I hope you're right buddy
Sent from my LT18i using Tapatalk
i predict that this time next week enough people will have z2's that we'll have all our answers
I bought this device in Canada, The provider is Bell.
My bootloader is locked. And following the Sony steps.. It says it won't unlock.
In device, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. Bootloader unlock allowed says No,
All my favorite apps won't work properly without root.
If anyone figures a way to root it.. I'll give you $100.
01-
Unlock bootloader
Root - via cwm with supersu flashable zip
Flash totaly stock kernel
Relock
02-
Or flash a prerooted FTF but im too lazy to make one
(my attempt is mid finished :/)
-03
No exploits unfortionatly
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Easy
Unlock bootloader
Root - via cwm with supersu flashable zip
Flash totaly stock kernel
Relock
It should work
Or flash a prerooted FTF but im too lazy to make one
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read his post again. It says root a LOCKED bootloader. Your first listed step was 'Unlock bootloader'.
Uclydde said:
Read his post again. It says root a LOCKED bootloader. Your first listed step was 'Unlock bootloader'.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh i missed that
I guess i better get to work on a prerooted system only FTF
Lol i dont even want that $100, just a chalange for me
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Easy
Unlock bootloader
Root - via cwm with supersu flashable zip
Flash totaly stock kernel
Relock
It should work
Or flash a prerooted FTF but im too lazy to make one
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I should have stated that my bootloader will not unlock. I already tried the sony steps.
exc1d1us said:
Sorry, I should have stated that my bootloader will not unlock. I already tried the sony steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well i guess ill try making a prerooted FTF
I cant live without root and its probably torture for some
For now someone may find an root exploit, if not then blerhg, FTF it is
Try keeping an eye out in development sections
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Well i guess ill try making a prerooted FTF
I cant live without root and its probably torture for some
For now someone may find an root exploit, if not then blerhg, FTF it is
Try keeping an eye out in development sections
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you.. I stick by my word for the $100.. Like you said.. it's torture.
exc1d1us said:
Sorry, I should have stated that my bootloader will not unlock. I already tried the sony steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait why won't it unlock? Does your phone say its bootloader can't be unlocked or did you just have trouble unlocking it?
Uclydde said:
Wait why won't it unlock? Does your phone say its bootloader can't be unlocked or did you just have trouble unlocking it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone says bootloader cannot be unlocked. In Canada the Z2 started as an exclusive with Bell Mobility.. the Sony store versions are unlockable though.
exc1d1us said:
I bought this device in Canada, The provider is Bell.
My bootloader is locked. And following the Sony steps.. It says it won't unlock.
In device, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. Bootloader unlock allowed says No,
All my favorite apps won't work properly without root.
If anyone figures a way to root it.. I'll give you $100.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
$100.... it's sounds good? Okay from my experience I bought my XperiaZ from Australian Telco before and it said Bootloader unlock allowed:No
but when I flashed official generic ftf using flashtool. It's said Bootloader Unlock allowed:Yes. So if you can take a risk try it(do it by your own! and don't forget to back up!)... you might try to do that. Luckly my XperiaZ2 is bootloader allowed one. Hope I have a chance to get 100bucks
CenteaOSD said:
$100.... it's sounds good? Okay from my experience I bought my XperiaZ from Australian Telco before and it said Bootloader unlock allowed:No
but when I flashed official generic ftf using flashtool. It's said Bootloader Unlock allowed:Yes. So if you can take a risk try it(do it by your own! and don't forget to back up!)... you might try to do that. Luckly my XperiaZ2 is bootloader allowed one. Hope I have a chance to get 100bucks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is very dangrous, this depends on the contents of the FTF and i wouldent recoment this at al
Have you tried flashing the German DE generic FTF, i think it has stuff for the TA partition
This may do your job
I still dont recomend, do this at your own will if you know how to unbrick a device
Although i would try it but only because i know how to unbrick a xperia (lol this part usualy takes a while)
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
This is very dangrous, this depends on the contents of the FTF and i wouldent recoment this at al
Although i would try it but only because
Have you tried flashing the German DE generic FTF, i think it has stuff for the TA partition
This may do your job
I still dont recommend, do this at your own will if you know how to unbrick a device
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed him that it must be done by his own.... But he asks us to is there are anyway to do that? so I just posted the way I did.
I am not recommending him to do that.... I just simply answered his question. Always flash ftf w/o TA and partition.
It is recommended everywhere and If once he started to searching about flash tool it is warned by everyone.
You can't back up TA partition w/o root. So I don't think there is any way to get XperiaZ2 to back to completely stock.
(Although i would try it but only because ←What does it mean? It doesn't make sense for me.)
Well, I tried to flash the stock FTF.. same version as my devices. It errored.. and I am now bricked.
You can't modify an FTF and flash it to a bootloader locked device, modifying it will break Sony's signature verification
I'm guessing there's no way to unbrick?
Michealtbh said:
You can't modify an FTF and flash it to a bootloader locked device, modifying it will break Sony's signature verification
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can its just extremly hard and people have usualy only included a system.sin and nothing else
I used KA25s PreRooted FTF for xperia S back a while ago
(good old GB only 80mb non freeable ram)
exc1d1us said:
Well, I tried to flash the stock FTF.. same version as my devices. It errored.. and I am now bricked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How i unbrick my devices usualy (if they are locked bootloader)
Pt1
Unplug device totaly
Hold power
Hold volume up
Wait for it to buzz 3 times in a row
(rubber bands usualy help)
(ensure battery isnt killed from doing this (low charge)
(aka dont leave rubber bands for several hours)
Pt2
Download and install sony PC companion
Go to support
Go to repair device
Folow instructions
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
You can its just extremly hard and people have usualy only included a system.sin and nothing else
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll need to find Sony's signing key then. Good luck with that
Aww.... We warned you.... it must be done by your own and not recommended. Try SEUS.... (Not sure if it works for yours....
Everything what you've done with flashtool will be avoid your warranty..... I think when you downloaded flashtool they warned you again....
As EnviousData warned you too.... even I did not recommended to do that.... dear....
Ok, I managed to unbrick.. back to bootloader unlock allowed: No
Still.. If you guys have any ideas how to root.. $100.
exc1d1us said:
Ok, I managed to unbrick.. back to bootloader unlock allowed: No
Still.. If you guys have any ideas how to root.. $100.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly i say keep your $$$ and wait for a exploit or root method of sorts
Me and my FTF will be a while and Z2 Development has started very slow and may be a while before anything of the sorts comes avaliable
I suggest if you realy want to root try exchanging your device for an unlocked one (or unlockable :/)
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I owned a Samsung S3 and rooted it the first couple of days after I got it. Now I'm moving up to the Z2 and I have to say I'm now in a different world. Been reading the guides but I want to be sure of things before I root. I can't go much longer without rooting lol. On Samsung the roms were very carrier specific. Like att, sprint or telus. I'm in Canada and I'm with Bell but see no other sub forums? Is this forum for all Z2? How do I know if my bootloader is locked? I never had to worry before. What is TA partition and DRM keys? Sorry for the noob questions. Just want to get back in the game. Thanks.
crazynewfie said:
I owned a Samsung S3 and rooted it the first couple of days after I got it. Now I'm moving up to the Z2 and I have to say I'm now in a different world. Been reading the guides but I want to be sure of things before I root. I can't go much longer without rooting lol. On Samsung the roms were very carrier specific. Like att, sprint or telus. I'm in Canada and I'm with Bell but see no other sub forums? Is this forum for all Z2? How do I know if my bootloader is locked? I never had to worry before. What is TA partition and DRM keys? Sorry for the noob questions. Just want to get back in the game. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, this forum is for all Z2. There are no carrier-specific sub-forums.
Unlocking the bootloader is an intentional act. If your device is new and you have not unlocked the bootloader, then your bootloader is still locked. You might want to also check if your bootloader is unlockable in the 1st place. Go to your dialer and enter *#*#7378423*#*#, then Service info, then Configuration. Under Rooting status, if it's indicated as "Bootloader unlock allowed: Yes", then you can unlock the bootloader if you want. If it's No, then there's no way to unlock your bootloader. You have to wait for a root exploit for locked bootloaders.
Some info on Trim Area (TA) partition: http://www.themobimag.com/backuprestore-the-ta-partition-on-sony-xperia-devices/
Digital Rights Management (DRM) Keys are basically for Sony features such as TrackID. Some info: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2743240
Do search the entire XDA forum if you want more info on TA partition and DRM keys, as the info are scattered across the other Xperia device forums too.
Thanks. Rooting status is a big No. Darn
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2775411
There are some usefull links here, i did link something to rooting or a suposed root without UBL which you can find in the QnA/FAQ area
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Same with OP, I'm new to this device
All the way since I joined XDA, my device is always samsung series. And always international unlocked version.
Sorry, never meant to hijack a thread. But better rather than I open a new thread
I've try to read and understand first,...
however, I still stuck here and there. Is the step correctly summ up ?
1) backup TA partition.
2) unlock bootloader.
3) restore TA partition.
4) flash CWM.
5) flash custom kernel
6) root
7) then can install custom rom (if I want).
or did I miss any step ?
Restoring Ta relocks your bootloader btw
Flash custom kernel then rom/root n stuff
Then stock kernel (totaly stock like from a FTF)
Then restore TA
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Restoring Ta relocks your bootloader btw
Flash custom kernel then rom/root n stuff
Then stock kernel (totaly stock like from a FTF)
Then restore TA
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do u mean I have to flash back stock kernel?
and flash TA partition the last step to relock bootloader?
sorry if I m irritating. this device seems more complicated because new to me.
Samsung is much easier though.
Sent from somewhere under the sky, at the corner of this rounded earth.
antique_sonic said:
do u mean I have to flash back stock kernel?
and flash TA partition the last step to relock bootloader?
sorry if I m irritating. this device seems more complicated because new to me.
Samsung is much easier though.
Sent from somewhere under the sky, at the corner of this rounded earth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Restoring TA relocks your bootloader
Relocking on a custom or modified kernel bricks your device
Step1 do what you need with CWM / custom kernel
Step2 flash stock kernel without any thing
Step3 restore TA
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Restoring TA relocks your bootloader
Relocking on a custom or modified kernel bricks your device
Step1 do what you need with CWM / custom kernel
Step2 flash stock kernel without any thing
Step3 restore TA
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks so much man.
thanks for ur help.
Sent from somewhere under the sky, at the corner of this rounded earth.
I have a Z Ultra GPe running 4.4.4 stock everything never wanted to root until the latest 4.4.4 OTA due to the low speaker volume, I can barely hear the phone ring anymore, I see there is a volume fix but that requires root and that's what I want to do; root.
As far as I understand and please correct me if I'm wrong, there are two ways to root :
1. Unlock bootloader, install dual recovery, change kernel, root.
2. Use towelroot apk to root the phone without modifying bootloader, recovery or kernel
I have seen that many people are facing camera problems when using method 1 due to unlocking the bootloader in addition to not receiving OTA updates after using method 1 (can't wait for Android L OTA)
If I root using method 2 will I avoid facing any camera problems and still receive OTA updates?
If there is another method I don't know about to fix the low volume issue or root my GPe please let me know, most important thing is that my camera is not affected and I continue to receive OTA updates.
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Method 2 is the best way now that we have a root exploit. It wont modify the kernel/boot loader etc so should allow OTAs. As this is not unlocking the BL it shouldn't effect the camera (it is only 4.4.4 that this happened on), and you can back up the TA if you do ever want to unlock the BL. I would do a backup of the TA anyway as it will give you an easy root method should there not be one available on 5.0
in short: should work
Can you please elaborate, I don't know what TA is and why or how to back it up?!
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
vivalamoza said:
Can you please elaborate, I don't know what TA is and why or how to back it up?!
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TA - Trim Area, It is where the DRM keys and other things are kept. It looks like this is what is breaking the camera in 4.4.4 with an unlocked BL. If you back up the TA you can restore it and thus relock the bootloader. There is a tool called TA backup linked in one of the stickies in the general section.
If in the future you cant get root to do a TA backup it would be handy to already have one. Then you can unlock the BL, flash supersu, restore TA and have a rooted phone with locked BL (and intact DRM keys)
Thanks, will back up TA and root using towelroot
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
blueether said:
TA - Trim Area, It is where the DRM keys and other things are kept. It looks like this is what is breaking the camera in 4.4.4 with an unlocked BL. If you back up the TA you can restore it and thus relock the bootloader. There is a tool called TA backup linked in one of the stickies in the general section.
If in the future you cant get root to do a TA backup it would be handy to already have one. Then you can unlock the BL, flash supersu, restore TA and have a rooted phone with locked BL (and intact DRM keys)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry this may seem like a stupid question but I want to understand how this works;
If I root my device using the Towelroot exploit and my bootloader is locked and recovery and kernel are stock, will my TA or DRM keys be affected!?
I surely will backup my TA like you advised but I just wanna make sure I understand how it works as I am coming from a Samsung and HTC background so this is all new to me.
and one last question please (sorry for asking so many questions)
Do I root first then backup, or do I backup then root?
vivalamoza said:
Sorry this may seem like a stupid question but I want to understand how this works;
If I root my device using the Towelroot exploit and my bootloader is locked and recovery and kernel are stock, will my TA or DRM keys be affected!?
I surely will backup my TA like you advised but I just wanna make sure I understand how it works as I am coming from a Samsung and HTC background so this is all new to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
vivalamoza said:
and one last question please (sorry for asking so many questions)
Do I root first then backup, or do I backup then root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have it right, your TA (hence DRM keys) won't be affected by the root process.
Root then back up the TA partition. You need root to pull the disk image off the phone, that's why GPe users that unlocked/rooted before towelroot are in the position with a buggered camera that seems to be looking for DRM keys.
Thnx again!
This is a bit off topic but will we get an android L update at all now that the z ultra gpe has been pulled from the play store
People are saying that it has reached End of Life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Pallavgarg10 said:
This is a bit off topic but will we get an android L update at all now that the z ultra gpe has been pulled from the play store
People are saying that it has reached End of Life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We do not have many fortune tellers here. We should get it, but nothing is sure.
Pallavgarg10 said:
This is a bit off topic but will we get an android L update at all now that the z ultra gpe has been pulled from the play store
People are saying that it has reached End of Life!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Z Ultra Gpe released on Dec 13 2013. According to Google Gpe devices "traditionally" are updated for "about" 18 months. There is speculation that Gpe program may be winding down in favor of the "Silver" program. I would expect to see it updated to L but there are no guarantees.
google would be hurting their brand if they pulled updates after only 8 months. Would you buy another google branded phone if they did that, be it GPe or Silver? This is why I cant see them not supporting well in to L
Agree with blueether, Google will probably update the ZU GPE to Android L, but that may be the end of the updates we get
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Hey Guys,
So I just bought a Z2 with Android 4.4.4, and after a lot of reading I understood that there is no "one click" rooting option for it and that I have to downgrade first and then flash a rooted ROM.
The thing is I checked all the the current threads and they are somewhat very hard to follow through and a little bit made to advanced users
Topics like: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/general/4-4-4-creating-rooted-update-package-t2933155
So sometimes midway they skip a step or dont explain how did they reach there (specially after step 9 in the above tutorial)
I know I am asking too much, but will someone walk me through how to root my locked boot loader phone ?
FW: 23.0.1.a0.167
Thank you very much
There are 2 ways to root
Safe way which is this way which includes downgrading and having to reset your device twice
Or the easy way which is unlocking your bootloader (losing your TA and DRM Dependant features) flashing a custom kernel + recovery
You cant root at all without losing data
Hi mate
I suggest you to try this method first
http://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/giefroot-rooting-tool-cve-2014-4322-t3011598
It doesn't work for me and if it doesn't work for you too we can talk to the author to support our devices
with my best regards
a.hamameh
Hey Mate , Thank you for your reply
I have tried it but it didnt work, it says my "phone isnt vunerable", I have sent to author waiting his reply.
If you have any other pointers for me that would be great !
a.hamameh96 said:
Hi mate
I suggest you to try this method first
http://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/giefroot-rooting-tool-cve-2014-4322-t3011598
It doesn't work for me and if it doesn't work for you too we can talk to the author to support our devices
with my best regards
a.hamameh
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have also the same error now we are sure that our devices are not supported yet I think he needs some informations about the kernel.
I sent him message and I got a reply but he thought that I have 4.4.2.
He told me that he is busy.
I sent another message and I'm waiting his reply.
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
Then How to do it even with losing data, but not losing the original FTF ?
Again sorry for being a noob
Envious_Data said:
There are 2 ways to root
Safe way which is this way which includes downgrading and having to reset your device twice
Or the easy way which is unlocking your bootloader (losing your TA and DRM Dependant features) flashing a custom kernel + recovery
You cant root at all without losing data
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hoooka said:
Hey Guys,
So I just bought a Z2 with Android 4.4.4, and after a lot of reading I understood that there is no "one click" rooting option for it and that I have to downgrade first and then flash a rooted ROM.
The thing is I checked all the the current threads and they are somewhat very hard to follow through and a little bit made to advanced users
Topics like: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/general/4-4-4-creating-rooted-update-package-t2933155
So sometimes midway they skip a step or dont explain how did they reach there (specially after step 9 in the above tutorial)
I know I am asking too much, but will someone walk me through how to root my locked boot loader phone ?
FW: 23.0.1.a0.167
Thank you very much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not too complicated, but im sure its 100% safe. The step only required downgrade and then install the pre-rooted rom. If you know how to flash with flashtool, then this is not a big problem. Before you begin, please make sure you understand each step that you gonna do. This is how actually i do.
1. Download all files required(ftf, rooting tools, prf creator, recovery, etc)
2. Make the pre-rooted rom first.(i just skip that step 11)
3. Flash the stock .314
4. Root & recovery it.
5. Insert that pre-rooted ftf that i made early, in my case i also use a stock rom .167
6. Reboot and finish.
I've rooted Xperia Z before and I'm sure it was much easier. I'd like to root my Z2 but it's much more complicated. I mean I know how to use flash tools, but I'm a bit lost when it comes to drm keys. Is it possible to root and unroot if needed so Sony won't know if anything goes wrong ? Does your method involve drm backup?
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
ka1eid said:
I've rooted Xperia Z before and I'm sure it was much easier. I'd like to root my Z2 but it's much more complicated. I mean I know how to use flash tools, but I'm a bit lost when it comes to drm keys. Is it possible to root and unroot if needed so Sony won't know if anything goes wrong ? Does your method involve drm backup?
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method doesnt require to unlock bootloader, its safe. Backup drm key can only be done after u root your device.
Sent from my D6503
yuskhayru said:
This method doesnt require to unlock bootloader, its safe. Backup drm key can only be done after u root your device.
Sent from my D6503
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
ka1eid said:
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure.
Sent from my D6503
ka1eid said:
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes root doesn't harm your DRM keys only unlocking the bootloader will do that and here are so manybthreads howto get root on locked bootloader, just search before posting and read the rules !!
Sent From Somewhere On Earth With My Z2 ^^
ka1eid said:
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes rooting doesn't Unlock your bootloader so no loss of DRM keys. Its theoretically impossible to hard brick a locked boot loader Z2.