[Q] How to update 4.4.2 root but no recovery - Xperia Tablet Z Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi!
I have the SGP311 with the 4.2.2 Version of Android. Back then I rooted it using the tool VRoot (i think that was the name).
As all I wanted was root for TiBackup I left it at that. Stock ROM, some modifications through root access, but I saw no need to go further.
I would now like to update. OTA does not work, either because I am root or because the bootloader unlock (which I think happened during the root process).
There are so many guides out there, some contradictory or rather relying on going from certain versions to the newest.
What is my best bet?
Unroot and Relock, OTA update, then re-root? Is there a Guide to that?
Or how do I get a recovery on there easily? Guide?
Then assuming I have recovery on, what do I flash. Sony has grown on me, so I am happy with a stock rom or something very close to it, if I can root it for my mods.
What is the least dangerous way to get this tablet up to date?
Thanks for your help!

Walter_White said:
Hi! I have the SGP311 with the 4.2.2 Version of Android. Back then I rooted it using the tool VRoot (i think that was the name). As all I wanted was root for TiBackup I left it at that. Stock ROM, some modifications through root access, but I saw no need to go further. I would now like to update. OTA does not work, either because I am root or because the bootloader unlock (which I think happened during the root process). There are so many guides out there, some contradictory or rather relying on going from certain versions to the newest. What is my best bet? Unroot and Relock, OTA update, then re-root? Is there a Guide to that? Or how do I get a recovery on there easily? Guide? Then assuming I have recovery on, what do I flash. Sony has grown on me, so I am happy with a stock rom or something very close to it, if I can root it for my mods. What is the least dangerous way to get this tablet up to date? Thanks for your help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Vroot would not have unlocked the tablet's boot loader, so are you sure it is unlocked? And have you tried using Sony PC Companion to update the firmware? I was going to recommend trying to use Sony Mobile Update Service, which I preferred over PC Companion, but it appears Sony stopped supporting it.

Related

[Q] Original Neo - Where to Start?

So I have a completely original Neo, still on the on the original Gingerbread (2.3.3) it had and I don't quite know how to proceed.
The only thing I do know is that if at all possible I don't want to unlock the bootloader.
Ideally I want to back everything up before I do anything but from my understanding Titanium Backup needs root to back everything up so that creates a bit of a catch 22. Similarly installing CWM so that I can access recovery is risky and could break everything so I'd want a backup first but for that I need either root or recovery so another catch 22. So what would be the safest option?
Also I want to update to ICS, I figure it's about time I get my phone current, but I don't know in what order I should do that in either...
Should I gingerbreak my Gingerbread and then update to ICS?
Should I just update to ICS and then root?
Should I upgrade using generic firmware to a version supporting the zergRush root, then root and then continue updating to current ICS?
I'm fairly confident I can get everything right first time on any method (and I know what all the methods are/am to not to lazy to research the methods myself) but I just can't figure out the safest course of action here...other than staying on Gingerbread for the duration of my phone contract.
Any help you can give me is appreciated.
Start by reading the stickies in the development section, do some reading and you'll know
look at the stickies in neo v section too
Ok so you're saying I should follow the "noob's guide" exactly and try a zergRush Root first? (Skip unlocking the bootloader since it'm not interested in cutoms roms with custom kernels) and then install CWM and make a nandroid backup?
Ok....but that still doesn't tell me whether I should update first or root first?
Also I can't seem to tell from it's thread whether the zergRush root works on the latest ICS (I don't see mention of .431 in the thread with .62 apparently being the last version that worked so that would be a no then?)?
Also my case is different because I could actually even still root with Gingerbreak if that was best/safest unlike most people trying to root (I never downgraded either so I wouldn't be exposed to the 0% issue).
ZergRush method doesn't work on fw's after .42.
There is another method, which you can find in sticky thread in general section.
First update, then root, as root is gone after flas/update.
p.s. whatever you do, just don't flash android 2.3.2 on your phone after you flash 2.3.4, but there is no really point in going to that old fw, same as there is no point in still being on 2.3.3.
Root is only gone if I don't update OTA
SCHUMI_4EVER said:
Root is only gone if I don't update OTA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really? Thanks for telling me that..
I know that, I also know that you can't update from 2.3.3 to 4.0.4(which you said it's your initial goal, in your first post) via OTA. Or you can?
As far as I know I can but I admit I haven't checked yet. I don't see why once it's available for my region through the PC Suite it shouldn't also be available OTA.
Try and let us know.
It's not same if you're updating from x.x.x to x.x.y and from x.x.x to y.y.y, in first case OTA is possible, in second case I kinda doubt
I also didn't try, but if I remember correctly that's how it is.
Yeah but surely it should then just be 3 steps? So from x.x.x to x.x.y to y.y.y...that would would make sense to me anyways
Still reading up on a bit of other stuff then I'll check
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1973017
hope it helps..

I9200 root after been rooted and updated firmware???

Hi folks,
Ive been having a strange problem with a couple Galaxy Mega I9200. I have rooted both before without any problems using KINGO originally. The i decided to update both of them with version UBUCNA2. When i tried to re root them back, even though the process have run fine a couple times the phone is not rooting. At this point i dont know what else to do to try to root those phones. I have tried every single method around this forum i think not just KINGO this time. And have not been able to reach root the way it should. Titanium backup shows not able to aquire root priviledges, and other root apps also. Can someone please help me on this?? Keep in mind im not a newbie so dont give me the recovery method advice without something new or to use KINGO because ive have done that already. Thanks a lot guys
You upgraded your phones to the latest knox enabled firmware which has the knox bootloader. You cannot go back to an older firmware or flash a custom rom now.
To root, try the directions provided in this thread and use the melius3gxx files instead of meliusltexx.
Silesh.Nair said:
You upgraded your phones to the latest knox enabled firmware which has the knox bootloader. You cannot go back to an older firmware or flash a custom rom now.
To root, try the directions provided in this thread and use the melius3gxx files instead of meliusltexx.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thanks, the phones already had the knox apk so my guess was that it was going to be the same thing. Thanks for clarifying that one. And thanks for the advice.
Thanks again, turns out the only thing that is failling root access is when i try to unlock the phone via box. For some reason when its checking for SU access it fails. But thanks anyway i managed to solve the Root problem.
root.
I rooted through Phill touch Recovery.

[Q] Lost root, help downgrading to 4.1.2

Hi all,
I'm a bit of a n00b at this, so please forgive me.
I started with Android 4.1.2, Kernel 3.4.0-g298631f-02047-gec59411, build 10.1.C.0.370.
I rooted it using Doomlord's easy-root and then when attempting to flash custom recovery, I accidentally flashed some other .img and the tablet wouldn't even turn on. I cried. Like, a few good tears.
Went online, found out I wasn't screwed, and figured out how to flash SGP312_10.4.B.0.577_VMo DE_1273-3719_WIFI312G.
But, as I said, I lost root, and am confused about how to downgrade back to 4.1.2 properly without bricking.
Here is my current info:
Version 4.3, Kernel 3.4.0-g1b44cd5, build 10.4.b.0.577
In this thread, under "Downgrade your rom" and "back to 4.1.2 and rooting" it says "if you're in 4.3, Flash this SGP 351 4.1.2 FTF using Flash Tool and it will be booted in 4.1.2. if you have different Variant downgrade to your Variant FTF file"
What is a variant FTF file? Can I just use any SGP 312 4.1.2 FTF? Does anyone know a safe one to use?
Thanks!
Just wipe EVERYTHING on flashtools. Make sure that you have al wipe checked, and press start flashing.
But be careful, sometimes, bootloader is messed up with updates, not sure if it is your case because i don't have a SGP312. Instead i have the LTE variant, wich turned itself into an stubborn piece of technology LOL
Sent from my little big badass boy!
worf_1977 said:
Just wipe EVERYTHING on flashtools. Make sure that you have al wipe checked, and press start flashing.
But be careful, sometimes, bootloader is messed up with updates, not sure if it is your case because i don't have a SGP312. Instead i have the LTE variant, wich turned itself into an stubborn piece of technology LOL
Sent from my little big badass boy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response!
Just not sure what you mean by "wipe everything". What am I flashing it with? Which firmware? And what's "al wipe"?
I tried posting a screenshot of the flash tools but as a new user I can't do it. Sorry for being a n00b.
UberBaumer said:
Thanks for the response!
Just not sure what you mean by "wipe everything". What am I flashing it with? Which firmware? And what's "al wipe"?
I tried posting a screenshot of the flash tools but as a new user I can't do it. Sorry for being a n00b.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe by "wipe everything" and "al wipe", they mean select to wipe APPSLOG, CACHE, and DATA during the flashing process. The flash tool you need can be downloaded from HERE. You can download a US version of the firmware from my post HERE.
Cat McGowan said:
I believe by "wipe everything" and "al wipe", they mean select to wipe APPSLOG, CACHE, and DATA during the flashing process. The flash tool you need can be downloaded from HERE. You can download a US version of the firmware from my post HERE.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANK YOU, SIR.
I really appreciate it!
Back onto 4.1 and just rooted again. Now I just need to manage not screwing up installing CWM like I did last time!
Grrr...so I'm having trouble again.
When I try flashing CWM it keeps soft-bricking or whatever my tablet. It won't boot and I need to put it into fastboot mode and reflash the firmware.
I'm using the command fastboot flash boot TabZ_DooMLoRD_AdvStkKernel_FW-253-v01.img
Is there a better or another way to get CWM installed?
UberBaumer said:
Grrr...so I'm having trouble again.
When I try flashing CWM it keeps soft-bricking or whatever my tablet. It won't boot and I need to put it into fastboot mode and reflash the firmware.
I'm using the command fastboot flash boot TabZ_DooMLoRD_AdvStkKernel_FW-253-v01.img
Is there a better or another way to get CWM installed?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TabZ_DooMLoRD_AdvStkKernel_FW-253-v01.img is for the SGP321 running firmware 10.1.1.A.1.253.
You have a SGP312.
TabZ_DooMLoRD_AdvStkKernel_FW-344-v01.img is for the SGP312 running firmware 10.1.C.0.344.
You are running firmware 10.1.C.0.370.
You would probably have better luck trying to install Nut's XZDualRecovery.
Cat McGowan said:
TabZ_DooMLoRD_AdvStkKernel_FW-253-v01.img is for the SGP321 running firmware 10.1.1.A.1.253.
You have a SGP312.
TabZ_DooMLoRD_AdvStkKernel_FW-344-v01.img is for the SGP312 running firmware 10.1.C.0.344.
You are running firmware 10.1.C.0.370.
You would probably have better luck trying to install Nut's XZDualRecovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jeez, dude, you're totally rocking my world. Thanks a ton for all your help.
I've successfully installed the XZ DualRecovery.
But now something weird is happening: when I try installing various roms (cm-10.2.0-pollux_windy or cm-11-20140418-nightly-pollux_windy) I get the error that it's for the wrong device. It tells me that I have a Pollux, but according to google, Pollux is the LTE version - I most definitely have the SG312 32GB WiFi version).
Did I go wrong somewhere here?
UberBaumer said:
Jeez, dude, you're totally rocking my world. Thanks a ton for all your help.
I've successfully installed the XZ DualRecovery.
But now something weird is happening: when I try installing various roms (cm-10.2.0-pollux_windy or cm-11-20140418-nightly-pollux_windy) I get the error that it's for the wrong device. It tells me that I have a Pollux, but according to google, Pollux is the LTE version - I most definitely have the SG312 32GB WiFi version).
Did I go wrong somewhere here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not install custom ROMs. No ROM has ever impressed me enough to cause me to want to install it. However, I have read posts regarding your problem in the Xperia Tablet Z Original Android Development forum. Look there and perhaps you will find the answer you need.
Cat McGowan said:
I do not install custom ROMs. No ROM has ever impressed me enough to cause me to want to install it. However, I have read posts regarding your problem in the Xperia Tablet Z Original Android Development forum. Look there and perhaps you will find the answer you need.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, I see. I was excited to install Cyanogenmod because I have it on my Samsung Galaxy S3 and enjoy the customization and ability to remove all the bloatware.
According to your signature, I see that you're on 4.2... A few questions:
Did you do this through an official update?
Can I somehow flash 4.2 through recovery mode (so if I decide I don't like it, I can just load a system backup and go back to 4.1.2)?
If I were to update through the automatic system update, I'm assuming I'll lose my root access and won't be able to get back into recovery mode (in case I figure out a way to install a custom rom in the future)?
Is there a way to remove all the sony bloatware without root access (if I were to install an official system update)?
Sorry for all the questions. I'm just trying to get this all figured out before I start downloading all my apps and getting comfortable with the interface.
Thanks again so very much.
UberBaumer said:
Hmm, I see. I was excited to install Cyanogenmod because I have it on my Samsung Galaxy S3 and enjoy the customization and ability to remove all the bloatware.
According to your signature, I see that you're on 4.2... A few questions:
Did you do this through an official update?
Can I somehow flash 4.2 through recovery mode (so if I decide I don't like it, I can just load a system backup and go back to 4.1.2)?
If I were to update through the automatic system update, I'm assuming I'll lose my root access and won't be able to get back into recovery mode (in case I figure out a way to install a custom rom in the future)?
Is there a way to remove all the sony bloatware without root access (if I were to install an official system update)?
Sorry for all the questions. I'm just trying to get this all figured out before I start downloading all my apps and getting comfortable with the interface.
Thanks again so very much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I first received my XTZ, it was running 4.1.2. I gained root access using DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit. I also installed SuperSU Pro and enabled its Survival mode and Install SuperSU into /system settings. Doing that allowed me to update firmware builds via OTA twice without losing root access. I have chosen not to update to 4.3 for various reasons; however, I did attempt updating to 4.3 via OTA like I have in the past, but the update failed to install. And from what I have seen of 4.4.2 on my son's Nexus 7, I may chose not to update to 4.4.2 also. My 4.2.2 install is working flawlessly and my XTZ does everything I need it to do, so I see no reason for updating yet. I live by the aphorism "If it's not broken, don't fix it."
If you install 4.2.2 (via flashing, you can no longer do it via OTA), you can use Vroot - English version to gain root access. Be aware that in the past, Vroot had a bad reputation regarding its loading unwanted apps during the root process, but I believe xda-developers and Mgyun-team (Vroot developers) had a talk and Mgyun-team has since changed their ways. In my opinion, Vroot is now safe to use. Many people have posted saying they have used it and have not experienced any problems.
I do not know of any way to remove bloatware without having root access.
Cat McGowan said:
When I first received my XTZ, it was running 4.1.2. I gained root access using DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit. I also installed SuperSU Pro and enabled its Survival mode and Install SuperSU into /system settings. Doing that allowed me to update firmware builds via OTA twice without losing root access. I have chosen not to update to 4.3 for various reasons; however, I did attempt updating to 4.3 via OTA like I have in the past, but the update failed to install. And from what I have seen of 4.4.2 on my son's Nexus 7, I may chose not to update to 4.4.2 also. My 4.2.2 install is working flawlessly and my XTZ does everything I need it to do, so I see no reason for updating yet. I live by the aphorism "If it's not broken, don't fix it."
If you install 4.2.2 (via flashing, you can no longer do it via OTA), you can use Vroot - English version to gain root access. Be aware that in the past, Vroot had a bad reputation regarding its loading unwanted apps during the root process, but I believe xda-developers and Mgyun-team (Vroot developers) had a talk and Mgyun-team has since changed their ways. In my opinion, Vroot is now safe to use. Many people have posted saying they have used it and have not experienced any problems.
I do not know of any way to remove bloatware without having root access.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn, maybe I was a bit too hasty in rooting my tablet; why is it that I can no longer to OTA updates? If I were to buy SuperSU PRO (for survival mode) is there any benefit to me? I see that it allows for OTA updates.
I am currently rooted via Superuser (by clockworkmod).
When you say I'll need to install 4.2.2 by flashing, you mean through Flashtool, right? Which build should I get (and where, one of the development forums)?
Is the reason why one is advised to install custom roms via recovery mode in order to maintain root access (which I'm assuming doesn't happen if you flash through Flashtool)?
Something I forgot to mention earlier is that I did unlock the bootloader. I'm not sure if that helps or hinders me at this point.
Thanks again for taking the time to answer all my questions. I really love this new toy, and I'm so terrified of bricking it.
Cat McGowan said:
If you install 4.2.2 (via flashing, you can no longer do it via OTA), you can use Vroot - English version to gain root access.
I do not know of any way to remove bloatware without having root access.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I were to say flash this version: http://android.sc/official-android-4-2-2-on-xperia-tablet-z/ I should still be able to install Vroot, right?
Also, do you just manually remove the bloatware yourself, or is there a particular script/app that goes in and cleans up all the unnecessary stuff?
UberBaumer said:
If I were to say flash this version: http://android.sc/official-android-4-2-2-on-xperia-tablet-z/ I should still be able to install Vroot, right?
Also, do you just manually remove the bloatware yourself, or is there a particular script/app that goes in and cleans up all the unnecessary stuff?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean 10.3.1.A.0.244 is for the SGP321. You have a SGP312, so you need firmware 10.3.1.C.0.136 (same as mine), which you should be able to download from HERE (upload credit goes to user named spectre51). Flash it then gain root access using Vroot.
Regarding SuperSU Pro versus Superuser, I use Chainfire's SuperSU Pro because it has superior functionality and more options compared to ChainsDD's Superuser. And I use SuperSU Pro because it is more likely to retain root access rights after an OTA update than the free version of SuperSU; e.g., SuperSU Pro provides OTA survival mode, the free version does not.
Regarding uninstalling bloatware, that is something you need to be careful with. Some apps you want to keep have dependencies on apps you consider bloatware and want to uninstall, especially when it concerns system apps. So, investigate the app before you uninstall it. Most times, I use Titanium Backup Pro or ROM Toolbox Pro to uninstall apps that cannot be uninstalled via the Apps list found in the tablet's Settings. At other times, I have had to use a file explorer and text editor to uninstall an app.
Cat McGowan said:
Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean 10.3.1.A.0.244 is for the SGP321. You have a SGP312, so you need firmware 10.3.1.C.0.136 (same as mine), which you should be able to download from HERE (upload credit goes to user named spectre51). Flash it then gain root access using Vroot.
Regarding SuperSU Pro versus Superuser, I use Chainfire's SuperSU Pro because it has superior functionality and more options compared to ChainsDD's Superuser. And I use SuperSU Pro because it is more likely to retain root access rights after an OTA update than the free version of SuperSU; e.g., SuperSU Pro provides OTA survival mode, the free version does not.
Regarding uninstalling bloatware, that is something you need to be careful with. Some apps you want to keep have dependencies on apps you consider bloatware and want to uninstall, especially when it concerns system apps. So, investigate the app before you uninstall it. Most times, I use Titanium Backup Pro or ROM Toolbox Pro to uninstall apps that cannot be uninstalled via the Apps list found in the tablet's Settings. At other times, I have had to use a file explorer and text editor to uninstall an app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you again my friend.
Is there a list of apps that are safe to uninstall, or, rather, a list of apps that I shouldn't tinker with (for fear of uninstalling an app that has a dependency on something critical)?
Also, I'm on the Google Play store and I see both Titanium Backup Pro and Rom Toolbox Pro. Should I buy both? If you had to buy just one, which would it be?
My main goal is to just make the smoothest experience possible. I want to take maximum advantage of the hardware in the tablet and have as few unnecessary programs running as possible.

Restore Z2 tablet back to factory / stock after root?

Hi,
I rooted my Z2 tablet a few days ago and have found that I don't really need the advantages it brings (from what I can tell). SO - I want to get it back to the way it was when I first opened the box.
I have seen threads about different devices and how to restore them to factory or stock (??), but they seem to call for specific files or flash software. So that brings me once again to this forum to figure out whether anyone can direct me to some instructions on how to do this. I figure it shouldn't be too hard. Just being careful.
Thanks very much for the advice once again.
I think if you flash the rootable kernel again, you could use an unrooting tool to undo the root. I'm also aware that there are files that you can flash to re-lock the bootloader (I once did this with an Xperia mini pro, although I'm not sure if such file exists for this tablet) but the DRM keys are lost forever a.f.a.i.k. But at least if you manage to re-lock the bootloader you will be able to install F/W upgrades through official ways again.
degraaff said:
I think if you flash the rootable kernel again, you could use an unrooting tool to undo the root. I'm also aware that there are files that you can flash to re-lock the bootloader (I once did this with an Xperia mini pro, although I'm not sure if such file exists for this tablet) but the DRM keys are lost forever a.f.a.i.k. But at least if you manage to re-lock the bootloader you will be able to install F/W upgrades through official ways again. Anyhow, you won't be able to restore to (more or less) factory status without at least flashing a couple of files.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THank you for the response. Unfortunately i'm not even sure how I would go about flashing 'the rootable kernel'.... Feeling a bit foolish for getting into this actually.
From what i'm reading, it seems like I need to get the stock software and start again. So i'm looking for the 'FTF' for my tablet, which is a SGP511. Not having any luck though.
Which was the process that you followed to root it?
degraaff said:
Which was the process that you followed to root it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was on another site - can't remember which. It got the clockwork mod installed. I think? Or was that just a recovery thing? No idea.
I'm actually now just doing a factory reset to see what happens, and it said 'root access possibly lost' in the process, which I thought was a good sign. Guess i'll keep tinkering with enough caution to eventually get the warranty back in tact.
Hopefully the loss of DRM doesn't effect the warranty.
In that case I guess you will have to download a firmware ftf file of an official unmodded firmware (preferably one of your region but I think especially if you have the wifi-only version it doesn't matter much as long as it contains the interface and input languages that you need), and install (or "flash") that using Flashtool. After that the root will certainly be gone and if you could then find a file to relock your bootloader I think your warrenty will be fine. I honestly don't think that Sony service and repair personel will check for DRM keys every time before repairing a device.
UPDATE
Factory reset appears to have gotten things back to normal. My plan is now just to unroot using an unroot tool (app i guess?) and then to lock the bootloader some how as well.
fearofbirds said:
Factory reset appears to have gotten things back to normal. My plan is now just to unroot using an unroot tool (app i guess?) and then to lock the bootloader some how as well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So it's certain that the tablet is still rooted at this moment? Some superuser apps have an option to do a full unroot, such as SuperSU, you could try that
That's great. I think that's sorted it out. SuperSU had the full unroot option and it looks like it's all sorted.
Thanks for the help.

Need a bit of input?

Okay,I posted recently about my old z ultra. I bought the z ultra off Craigslist and it was updated to 5.0.
Anyhow the screen got the dreaded 'hairline' Crack in the screen and Sony covered it.
They sent me a new phone international version and the first thing I checked were the hidden functions in the dialer. Rooting status says yes or bootloader rather. Also the phone is still running 4.3. I did some searching and found a root method. I don't want kingroot or any Chinese crap.
Do I need a computer? Can I root using towelroot? Install busboy? DL cwm and flash via the phone?
harley1rocker said:
Okay,I posted recently about my old z ultra. I bought the z ultra off Craigslist and it was updated to 5.0.
Anyhow the screen got the dreaded 'hairline' Crack in the screen and Sony covered it.
They sent me a new phone international version and the first thing I checked were the hidden functions in the dialer. Rooting status says yes or bootloader rather. Also the phone is still running 4.3. I did some searching and found a root method. I don't want kingroot or any Chinese crap.
Do I need a computer? Can I root using towelroot? Install busboy? DL cwm and flash via the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Towelroot does not work on 4.3. I hope my phone doesn't force a system update. I'm still 4.3 for now.
Not a gpe edition either
Screw it. I think I'll just take the update
This is why im tempted to multi post. A moderator warned against multi post. Ive had this post up for a few days now and ive not got one answer.
I need to know about 4.3 jellybean. My phone was shipped with it. Do i have to use flashtool? Whats the first step? I haven't taken the update. Im still 4.3
PLEASE ANSWER
Hello there lonely islander! I'm randomly passing through with my ship, and I caught your smoke signals.
I can't really remember the root situation on 4.3, but there were quite a few rooting tools in the cross-development section. Not sure if those were for 4.1 or 4.3 though. I'll do some digging and I'll be back.
What's the firmware version? .290?
EDIT: Okay, so I've done some searching, and this method was the one that people used back on 4.3. It's not perfect though since it required the use of Vroot, which is/was the same type of rooting tool as Kingroot, so that's probably a no-go.
Another way of doing it would be to downgrade to a firmware that's supported by towelroot. That would be 4.1? 4.2? Find out which version is compatible and find that firmware FTF in the Dev section. You'll probably have to do some digging since a 4.x ROM thread will be quite old. Flash it using Flashtool and then root with towelroot.
But...
What's your plan now? Backup the TA partition (DRM-files) and then unlocking the bootloader, update to 5.1.1 and easily root again through fastboot since your B/L is unlocked? Or are you planning to keep the bootloader locked and live the rest of your life on an ancient Android version?
EDIT 2: Have you tried this tool on 4.3? It's based on Towelroot, but it's customized for rooting Xperia devices. I think that maybe, probably, it'll work on 4.3. I don't know, so go ahead and just try it unless you've already done it.
EDIT 3: Okay, so it looks like the tool provided in "Edit 2" should be compatible with Android versions up to 4.4.2 before being patched by Google/Sony in 4.4.3/4.4.4 (KitKat), so it should in theory work on 4.3.
EDIT 4: OKay, I have no idea what's real anymore. I just stumbled upon this post from that thread:
v 12.4 worked like a charm on my Xperia Z Ultra C6802 (4.4.4).
Did TA backup. Installed SU chainfire and updated binary in normal mode. Got write to external SD card ability on my Total Commander without any SDFix app. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So... just go ahead and try it. If it fails, then you can downgrade using Flashtool if you're into that.
Build is 136. No,you are correct. King root is king crap. Im not going back there. The bootloader status says yes. Will i have to use the sony web site to unlock bootloader? Yes, i want root and i want too flash roms.
So,can i just root and install safestrap,superSU or do i have to unlock BL.
I could update to 4.4.....
Okay. Forget what i want. Tell me the steps i need to take. Im on 4.3. Build136. Yes i wanna root and i wanna rom..
harley1rocker said:
Okay. Forget what i want. Tell me the steps i need to take. Im on 4.3. Build136. Yes i wanna root and i wanna rom..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright. First step is to test and see if that root tool I linked to in my previous post works. If it does, great. If it doesn't, it'll get a little more time consuming.
But the important question here is: Do you care about the DRM files? They control mostly the camera which will be a little affected by the loss of the keys. It'll happen either way when you unlock the bootloader, but backing them up allows you to restore them later if you ever re-lock the bootloader for some reason.
So you can either:
1. Backup the DRM files, but doing that requires root, which is fairly hard to obtain with a locked bootloader, which you are currently witnessing.
2. Ignore the loss of the DRM files and unlock the bootloader right now. When you have unlocked the bootloader it'll allow you to boot and flash custom code, like a custom kernel with recovery (CWM/TWRP/Philz) which again allows you to flash SuperSU and be done with it, or flash a different ROM. It's the easiest way, but you'll lose the DRM keys. They might become handy if you have to send your device in for repairs down the road (if you have any warranty left, that is)
So what you need to decide right now is what you want to do.
Should i update? the next update is 4.4.2. I could take it then use watevr roottool. So root first then unlock bootloader
harley1rocker said:
Should i update? the next update is 4.4.2. I could take it then use watevr roottool. So root first then unlock bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, just try the root tool right now while you're on 4.3. If it works, it works.
Did it work?
Im going to attempt here in a min
But first my good man,in what order do i do this?
Root first,unlock BL,install recovery?
Root bootloader status says yes..do i need to mess with it?
I updated to 4.4.2. Towelroot does not work on any of them
harley1rocker said:
Im going to attempt here in a min
But first my good man,in what order do i do this?
Root first,unlock BL,install recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, root then backup the DRM files and then unlock the BL, then install recovery.
harley1rocker said:
Root bootloader status says yes..do i need to mess with it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What yes? Bootloader Unlock allowed: Yes or Bootloader unlocked: Yes?
harley1rocker said:
I updated to 4.4.2. Towelroot does not work on any of them
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright, now we know.
If bootloader status says YES on unlocked, then it's already unlocked, and we've wasted a bunch of time! If it's already unlocked, then just install recovery.
Bootloader unlock allowed:yes...... So i take it,its not.
Can i use flashtool? I tried sony "official " way and i did NOT understand it. So ive read into flashtool and it seems easier.
If i get a recovery on this thing im good from there.
I dont understand the steps. On Samsung note devices its root,safestrap, SU then happy flashhing.
This device is crazy confusion
harley1rocker said:
Bootloader unlock allowed:yes...... So i take it,its not.
Can i use flashtool? I tried sony "official " way and i did NOT understand it. So ive read into flashtool and it seems easier.
If i get a recovery on this thing im good from there.
I dont understand the steps. On Samsung note devices its root,safestrap, SU then happy flashhing.
This device is crazy confusion
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK. Here is what you need to know and do.
1- you didn't need to upgrade. A towelroot variant would have worked.
2- you don't need to unlock bootloader.
3- you need to install, from a PC onto your phone, what's called Xzdualrecovery, which is essentially a recovery. Google it and download the latest installer for this phone. You need to enable USB debugging on the phone so it can be installed from the PC. When your start the installer there is an option to instal AND root. This tool comes with the variant of towelroot tha can properly root your phone, if your OS date is before June 7 2014.
If you need help with these steps message me.
Thank u najoor. I have only updated to 4.4.2. I tried towelroot. Didnt work. I have a c6802. So im completely stock and your saying theres a tool out there that can root and install recovery from a pc.
Flashtool? Could you provide a link?

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