Do I really need To Unlock Bootloader? - Motorola Photon 4G

OK so I have been searching for this and im seeing somethings come up about unlocking bootloader for the photon and that you will lose 4g data. I kind dont want to lol.. But I do want to root the phone and flash some Roms. Do you really need to unlock bootloader to flash roms. Or it depends on the flashable rom that needs to have bootloader unlocked. Im reading about the unlock bootloader and not seeing why I need to do so. Or do you have to do so to flash ANY roms/kernels?
I see in the deve threads about rooting the the photon. looks simple enough which I have rooted others. But just double checking on these methods here. So any advice will be very helpful.

Unlocking the bootloader allows you to write to partitions that would normally not be allowed, even with root - like recovery. I think -though I have never done it - that you can use bootstrap recovery and get the same effect, but it is more of a hassle. Personally theres no WiMax near me without a 20 minute drive, then I can only get it if I am standing still and its no faster than 3G....so it was no question for me.
But I think that you can unlock, flash, and relock and some other steps to keep 4G active.

So you really don't need to unlock bootloader? Cause I'm rooting my friends once he gets in . So in trying to get all the info about rooting. But the 4g data connection will be good as the H huspa/3G is different cause its sprint. Just want to make that unlocking the bootloader is not a must do step. And when I root the photon I'm still able to use Rom manager to back up current roms etc.. and boot into recovery to flash any Rom
Inspire4G

You'll have to look at how the bootstrap recovery works - i've never used it. but I think thats the route you need to take.

You can get bootstrap recovery and flash p-roms. They dont require unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my MB855 using xda premium

I think the Laser ROM is the only P-ROM we have isn't it?

Where is that boot scrap at? And I notice not a lot of rons yet for the photon. So most of the roms will or will not need unlocked bootloader. What did u guys do for rooting,.and did you guys use the unlock bootloader.
Cause I seen then the one where u can root with hot the dock using that torpedo set up
Inspire4G

CYRAXDroid said:
Where is that boot scrap at? And I notice not a lot of rons yet for the photon. So most of the roms will or will not need unlocked bootloader. What did u guys do for rooting,.and did you guys use the unlock bootloader.
Cause I seen then the one where u can root with hot the dock using that torpedo set up
Inspire4G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, so the Laser ROM which is in the Dev section some place, if you can't find it, I can hunt it down for you is a P-ROM that can be flashed via Boot Strap Recovery and doesn't require an unlocked bootloader.
As for Home Base, Alien, and Star Wars those are full ROM's so you will need to unlock the bootloader for reasons KCarpenter has mentioned.
I personally did the torpedo root method myself, was easy enough if you have a decent understand of command prompt and can follow written instructions, if not, there is also the AIO one click root method that is pretty easy and a lot of people use.
As for unlocking the bootloader, I think there is a thread here, if not, I can post a link that will help.
Also, I included the bootstrap recovery apk in this reply. Hope this helps.

Soon as I get back to my pc I'm thank u and the other member. Where is that aio located so I can that to and yeah I rooted some other stuff before and my inspire.
So might as well do the unlock bootloader and when I do I'll lose the 4g connection but still have 3g though.
What does that boot strap do.and.u need root to load that right..
Inspire4G

Bootstrap is pretty much a recovery for a locked bootloader. It works more or less like CWM does on unlocked bootloaders. But...if you're going to unlock, don't worry about Bootstrap, just do the CWM recovery.
One click root....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1217416
CWM Recovery
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1218417&highlight=Recovery
Unlocked bootloader...
http://briefmobile.com/motorola-photon-4g-bootloader-unlocked
That should be good to get you rolling.

Thanks dude I'll look at all that soon..
Inspire4G

No worries Man. If you have any questions, I'll see what I can do to help ya.

awesome deal.. so once I root and then unlock bootloader. Which will allow me to install any roms and have clockwork mod so then I can back up my roms that install.. also where is thread for this where if need to unroot and restore all back to factory like out of the box.
and Im watching that youtube video about AIO root looks simple enough. But also see another video about rooting and unlocking bootloader.. Im still like 50/50 if I should unlock boot loader or not lol

I have been thinking about unlocking the bootloader as well and have chosen not to at this time. This is primarily because there are only 2 custom ROMs in existence for the Photon. We need more ROM choices for me to take the leap even though there is no 4G where I work or where I live.

ChadH42 said:
I have been thinking about unlocking the bootloader as well and have chosen not to at this time. This is primarily because there are only 2 custom ROMs in existence for the Photon. We need more ROM choices for me to take the leap even though there is no 4G where I work or where I live.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So really dont need to worry about like as in doing that method(unlocking bootloader) right away cause I only see like 3 roms lol I think. But i was thinking of flashing the Alien Rom seems to be the most popular one out right now but at the same time that needs to have unlock bootloader..
What roms are you guys you using

I'm on Home Base. V1.5 with the 4.2 update. Do you want the green color scheme from the Alien ROM?
Also. There is an overclock kernal which I run that you nees to be unlocked for. There was a stock file floating around. But just flash the latest SBF file. That SHOULD take you to stock. But you would have to ask in thay specific thread.
Sent from my Photon via XDA

xTMFxOffshore said:
I'm on Home Base. V1.5 with the 4.2 update. Do you want the green color scheme from the Alien ROM?
Also. There is an overclock kernal which I run that you nees to be unlocked for. There was a stock file floating around. But just flash the latest SBF file. That SHOULD take you to stock. But you would have to ask in thay specific thread.
Sent from my Photon via XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool deal..so being unlocked is good for flashing kernels and roms etc.. how is your battery life
Inspire4G

It was pretty decent. Gone done since the update keeps trying to install. But before that was probably ten plus hours with fairly heavy use.
Sent from my Photon via XDA

sweet well thanks for all the info man thanks again wish I could thank you again lol

No worries Man. Just tryin' to help.
Sent from my Photon via XDA

Related

Went from stock Bell Atrix to Custom Rom - Now how to go back to stock OTA ?

So I started with an official 2.2.2 firmware from Bell. I think this thread might serve 2 purposes, because I had a really hard time figure out all the steps from start to finish as they were in separate threads. So if someone starts off with stock 2.2.2 and wants to get a custom rom, that's the way I manged to do it. Second purpose of this post is for me to find out how I could return my Bell Atrix to stock OTA and what it would imply. Thanks a lot in advance for your inputs.
-I rooted with SuperOneClick
-Unlocked BL with
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1136261
-Installed Tenfar's CWM
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1138541
-Verified which kernel to use D00 or 1100 and dled it:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1169409
-Then I flashed Alien Rom Build #2 with Tenfar's CWM:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1186537&highlight=bell
-Then tried to do the D00 Intl kernel in CWM without rebooting, that didn't work ... so I rebooted and went directly to fastboot and installed the kernel as the instructions say in the link:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1169409
-Then booted for the first time, rebooted, and flashed the ninja theme in CWM
What I want to know is if ever I wanted to go back to stock with the new GB OTA from Bell 0.37.23 what would it imply:
-Rooting is still available, but is unlocking ? and could I still unlock the APN menu.
-My BL would get relocked? What would that imply for future updates.
Also if I decided to take that route; I would
1) http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=15975211#post15975211
2) Download the new OTA and install
3) Root and unlock...
Thank you for you input,
NiK
You just install the gobstopper. There is no new bell gb OTA from my understanding. Only the new ATT gb ota.
The gobstopper puts you on full 2.2.2.
Thought the latest OTA was for GB .. oh well ... what you be the implications of going back to stock ... would that affect the unlocked BL, would it relock it, would it make future mods more difficult of impossible .... I come from iPhone world so updating a firmware would have a lot of future implications ...
yes gobstopper would put you back to stock 2.2.2 and re-lock the bootloader...so yes you would have a boring ass atrix again...the only time (personal opinion) i would ever revert back is for warranty purposes. This way they can't tell you f'ed with your phone.
and yes it would make future mods impossible....basically all the mods and stuff out there right now would be useless to you...in fact if you did want to mod your phone you would only be able to deodex and theme..with a few other tiny modifications...that aren't even supported by the dev' who made them anymore because everyone is using GB now lol...i'm not sure why anyone would want to go back except for warranty purposes or they are selling to someone who is new to android and doesn't want to hack their phone...
/rant
cheers bro =)
J-Roc said:
yes gobstopper would put you back to stock 2.2.2 and re-lock the bootloader...so yes you would have a boring ass atrix again...the only time (personal opinion) i would ever revert back is for warranty purposes. This way they can't tell you f'ed with your phone.
and yes it would make future mods impossible....basically all the mods and stuff out there right now would be useless to you...in fact if you did want to mod your phone you would only be able to deodex and theme..with a few other tiny modifications...that aren't even supported by the dev' who made them anymore because everyone is using GB now lol...i'm not sure why anyone would want to go back except for warranty purposes or they are selling to someone who is new to android and doesn't want to hack their phone...
/rant
cheers bro =)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
That is incorrect. Once you are unlocked, you are always unlocked. You either have a bootloader that knows what unlocked means or you don't.
In this case you can always go back to IHOP to be unlocked. There is no permanent relock.
The point in going back to stock is to get OTA updates from Bell, not warranty claims because if you can get back to stock you don't need a warranty. It's when your phone is locked up that you want to use your warranty and by then it's too late.
Cheers!
Ok so once the bootloader has been unlocked, whatever happens I can't relock it even when applying an OTA upgrade that upgrades the bootloader ? That sounds like the exact opposite of what happened with iPhones or PS3s or whatever electronics that needed to be jailbroken, unlocked of whatever.
NiKTaMeR said:
Ok so once the bootloader has been unlocked, whatever happens I can't relock it even when applying an OTA upgrade that upgrades the bootloader ? That sounds like the exact opposite of what happened with iPhones or PS3s or whatever electronics that needed to be jailbroken, unlocked of whatever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A fuse gets blown in this case. oem lock does nothing.
What you can do is install a bootloader that doesn't know about unlocking or that that paticular fuse means it's supposed to be unlocked, So the unlocked message doesn't show up on the main screen during boot and fastboot no longer works for signed partitions. However, restoring the unlocked bootloader restores the unlock by checking the blown fuse, and oem unlock no longer has to be done.
Cheers!
Thanks a lot to everyone for your replies.
P.S NF I'm waiting to try your gobstopper 2.3.4 stupid slow upload speeds
NiKTaMeR said:
Thanks a lot to everyone for your replies.
P.S NF I'm waiting to try your gobstopper 2.3.4 stupid slow upload speeds
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's done if you were waiting.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App

questions about rooting

1)can some one give me a link to the most easiest and current way to root? ((Ive looked every where and im not even sure what i am to look for)) Also i am fully updated.
2)after i root,,,can i keep the phone basically the way it is meaning stock and sense?really just want to root as to get rid of all the bloatware and possibly over clock it.
3)Is there away to back up the phone pre-root in case i dont like root and wish to return to stock?
Any help in these matters would be greatly appreciated.
So, here's my $0.02 worth:
1) The easiest is not the best. If you want to root your phone, you need to learn how to use ADB. It's not difficult. You will need it at some point in the future. Here's a link to root your Thunderbolt > http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=996616
Here's a noob's guide to ADB >http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=532719
2) Yes you can.
3) I'm not sure, but here is a link that will return your phone to stock > http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1009423
Plus one on learning adb its way easier than youd think. i always tried to use the one click methods and whatnot but i finally had to in adb and it was way easier. no worry about something wrong with the auto root. also try mybackup app from the market. i used it to backup everything initially then use titanium bacckup after you root since its way better
Advice on rooting flashing Thunderbolt?
Hi all,
I am so frustrated With my Moto atrix 4g and the fact that it has a locked boot loader with the new 2.3.4 stock rom....I have a real simple question;
If I obtain a Thunderbolt, does Verizon force HTC to keep anything locked or make the Thunderbolt difficult to root, unlock boot loader and ultimately flash non-stock roms from XDA ?
If it is like past HTC phones then it should be a rom flasher's dream, correct? It is able to be unlocked and i can flash roms from this wonderful forum?
Please advise....much appreciated.
maddie01 said:
Hi all,
I am so frustrated With my Moto atrix 4g and the fact that it has a locked boot loader with the new 2.3.4 stock rom....I have a real simple question;
If I obtain a Thunderbolt, does Verizon force HTC to keep anything locked or make the Thunderbolt difficult to root, unlock boot loader and ultimately flash non-stock roms from XDA ?
If it is like past HTC phones then it should be a rom flasher's dream, correct? It is able to be unlocked and i can flash roms from this wonderful forum?
Please advise....much appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bro, really, take just 2 minutes to look around! There's a root guide right at the top of the dev forum!
To the OP: learning ADB and some basic Linux commands will become more useful than you know. Like quickly and easily checking an md5 without some stupid app or a computer. Plus, jcase is very easy to find and very helpful if there's a problem. I really can't endorse doing it the jcase way enough.
***LOCKED*** On Bootloader
Hello All,
First of all thanks for the awesome easy guide !!
This is the first time I am rooting my HTC Tbolt and have had an issue to start with.
Used the instructions in the link below:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1401959
After I download the 2.11.605.5 downgrade zip, I rename it, put in on the SD Card and go to HBOOT and it installs the downgrade just fine.
But at the end of this process, when I try to get the MR4 Radio onto the SD Card and install it, it simply does not happen. HBoot checks for the file, finds it, but nothing happens. I have renamed in properly and followed instructions to the dot.
I also noticed a ***LOCKED*** right on top of the screen and I think this could be an issue.
Can I go ahead and proceed with the Revolutionary Root Technique ? Would this be possible at this point ?
Is there anyway I can get Flash the MR4 Radio before I actually root ?
Also, would I be able to flash the MR4 Radio onto my device after Rooting ?
Any help is much appreciated !
Thanks in advance !
Cheers !

[Q] Questions on unlock and one-click method?

So here's my goal, to leave everything stock, with only root (su installed), so I can install a Verizon locked app, su, and perhaps busybox (I installed Terminal Emulator, but virutally no commands available).
1. Why use the one-click method over the method? As I understand it, the just unlocks the bootloader, so I'd need to install a custom recovery, to be able to flash an unsigned zip (su). I'd like to keep the stock recovery. Perhaps the process is to flash custom recovery, su, then restore stock recovery?
2. After I get root, will future OTA updates work? I'd like to not break that functionality.
3. It would be nice if would also allow you to just get root on your phone without dealing with the bootloader.
I've rooted and flashed my old Cliq, and it's nice having root when I need it. I also wanted to play around with setting the button led backlight levels, which via the command line requires root.
wrong section man
Well, perhaps I mis-understood the sections. Seems any questions having to do with roms/rooting go in this section.
Either way, questions still stands, and it seems your the resident expert for this phone.
Forgot to add, from all the other threads I've read, it seems there is/was some confusion as to whether or not the method would all you to flash a new kernel, not that I currently want to do that.
Edit: Since this is apparently in the wrong section, can one of the mods move it?
Edit 2: Thanks Binary100100 for moving this thread to the correct section.
oryan_dunn said:
Well, perhaps I mis-understood the sections. Seems any questions having to do with roms/rooting go in this section.
Either way, questions still stands, and it seems your the resident expert for this phone.
Forgot to add, from all the other threads I've read, it seems there is/was some confusion as to whether or not the method would all you to flash a new kernel, not that I currently want to do that.
Edit: Since this is apparently in the wrong section, can one of the mods move it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can flash kernels it is harder what else you need to know
How do I backup the stock recovery?
If I unlock the bootloader, do I need to flash a custom recovery to move forward? Or does unlocking the bootloader allow me to flash unsigned zips?
yes and its hard to backup stock recovery i got a backup all ready
So with an unlocked bootloader, I won't need a custom recovery? Just trying to learn, as it's a bit different than my Cliq.
you do need custom recovery sorry man i cant do much more explaing so busy butother people help you and look around read root threads etc
Well, thanks for the help so far.
If any one else is reading this thread, these are the questions I still have:
1. How do I backup the stock recovery? I know once I load a custom recovery, I will be able to backup the stock ROM.
2. Disregarding any warranty issues, why choose the method or the One-Click method?
3. Once unlocked/rooted, will DRM content still work? Will the Movies section in the Android Market still be available? It's not on my Cliq with CyanogenMod 7.
4. Once unlocked/rooted, will OTA updates apply correctly? Was anyone rooted on 1.36.531.5 and have the 1.36.531.6 update apply correctly?
5. Does the method wipe the device?
Thanks,
Ryan
oryan_dunn said:
Well, thanks for the help so far.
If any one else is reading this thread, these are the questions I still have:
1. How do I backup the stock recovery? I know once I load a custom recovery, I will be able to backup the stock ROM.
2. Disregarding any warranty issues, why choose the method or the One-Click method?
3. Once unlocked/rooted, will DRM content still work? Will the Movies section in the Android Market still be available? It's not on my Cliq with CyanogenMod 7.
4. Once unlocked/rooted, will OTA updates apply correctly? Was anyone rooted on 1.36.531.5 and have the 1.36.531.6 update apply correctly?
5. Does the method wipe the device?
Thanks,
Ryan
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. There is no need to backup the stock recovery. Once you flash a custom recovery there will never be a need to go back to stock. If for whatever reason you do want stock then just flash an ruu and you'll go completely back to stock.
2. You MUST use the method to get the unlock_code.bin file to unlock your bootloader before you even attempt to get root access. Once you have your bootloader unlocked you can make changes to the root of your device. With it locked you can only obtain a partial root which will reset itself after a reboot. For example, if you obtain a temporary root and remove a system app (like boatware), or two, or ten (whatever) then reboot they will re-appear. So you MUST have either s-off (not going to happen until an exploit is found and really isn't needed) or an unlocked bootloader. Once you receive the file from HTC then follow the included instructions to unlock your device. NOTE: You will lose all of your data when you unlock your bootloader so back it up first! After your bootloader is unlocked you can obtain root by one of two methods.
a) 1-Click root script.
This simply pushes an app called SuperUser.apk to the /system partition and a su binary file to the /system/bin directory which gives us root. Then download ClorckworkMod app from Market and install the custom recovery. From the app you can select "reboot to recovery" and install your custom roms.
b) Placing a custom recovery in a form of a PH85IMG.zip on the root of your external sdcard and boot into the bootloader. Then update the recovery.
Now with all of that being said I want to make something clear. The unlock method does NOT allow you to use the device for other carriers! You would still require the T-Mobile SIM to use the device.
3. Having root does have some disadvantages. Some roms may effect the ability to watch DRM movies, watch movies from Market, etc. Depends on your rom though. Check with the developer. ALWAYS make a nandroid backup prior to flashing any rom! That way if you don't like what you flashed you can always revert.
4. Okay... well I stand corrected.... this is the ONLY real reason to install the stock recovery. However installing an OTA update will cause you to lose root. Even with a custom recovery and a stock rom... if you receive a notice to install an update it will not work! The best alternative if you really really really want the update and lose all root then flash an RUU, do the update and hope that HTC didn't do anything to prevent you from getting root again. My best advice would be to wait for your favorite developer to update his/her rom with the update that you're trying to flash. That way you won't lose your data (shouldn't anyway) and no real risk of losing root.
With all that being said... I'm moving this to General because it's where all the Q&A's go.
Thanks for all the detailed info. I'd like root (installation of Superuser only) for the stock ROM. I don't plan on installing a custom ROM at this time. If I have an unlocked bootloader, how could HTC block root access? Couldn't I just flash an su zip? Ideally, I'd like to be able to swap recoveries out to apply the OTA updates. I kinda wish they had a code to just give me root access on the stock ROM.
I see the ruu thread, but am concerned about the source of the ROMs. Does HTC ever officially release a complete stock ROM?
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
oryan_dunn said:
Thanks for all the detailed info. I'd like root (installation of Superuser only) for the stock ROM. I don't plan on installing a custom ROM at this time. If I have an unlocked bootloader, how could HTC block root access? Couldn't I just flash an su zip? Ideally, I'd like to be able to swap recoveries out to apply the OTA updates. I kinda wish they had a code to just give me root access on the stock ROM.
I see the ruu thread, but am concerned about the source of the ROMs. Does HTC ever officially release a complete stock ROM?
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is all that you really need here.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1324177
If you really want to be able to download and install system updates you will need the stock recovery in step 4.
oryan_dunn said:
Thanks for all the detailed info. I'd like root (installation of Superuser only) for the stock ROM. I don't plan on installing a custom ROM at this time. If I have an unlocked bootloader, how could HTC block root access? Couldn't I just flash an su zip? Ideally, I'd like to be able to swap recoveries out to apply the OTA updates. I kinda wish they had a code to just give me root access on the stock ROM.
I see the ruu thread, but am concerned about the source of the ROMs. Does HTC ever officially release a complete stock ROM?
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IDK but I read your questions in a very slow voice like mr. mackey in southpark or something
anyways, why are you so worried about getting OTA updates?
a developer will eventually root and deodex it anyways.
You say you want to keep stock rom, but why don't you try the Custom ROMs which are basically stock ROMs on steroids?
You do realize when you apply an OTA update you lose your root access and there is a possibility that it'll be harder to even have your device rooted in the future.
For example, the mt4g, everybody got happy and updated to the gingerbread OTA, but lost root and nobody found out how to exploit it until about a month later or so.. and that is only by downgrading which is a tedious process that many, who don't know how to use ADB, have troubles with.
I believe the OTA updates comes with new bootloaders and radios, not only the rom, so it will lock your bootloader. (I think) that's what it does to other devices. Who knows if htcdev will work on all bootloaders. just my two cents, if you want full control of your device, unlock bootloader and root it. You can get every OTA update through developers here.
Teo032 said:
IDK but I read your questions in a very slow voice like mr. mackey in southpark or something
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man, hopefully I don't sound like that. I really appreciate all the step-by-step guides; but, unlike most people, I want to understand what I'm doing, not just run through the steps.
anyways, why are you so worried about getting OTA updates?
a developer will eventually root and deodex it anyways.
You say you want to keep stock rom, but why don't you try the Custom ROMs which are basically stock ROMs on steroids?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I don't really want to wipe my device at this time, so that probably rules out the HTC Dev method and installing a custom ROM. I asked about the source of the ROMs in the RUU thread, but if the stock recovery would flash them, then they'd obviously have been signed by HTC. If software is available via an official source, why would I download it from a forum? If I can get Ubuntu from Canonical, I wouldn't go download the ISO from an unofficial mirror (or if I did, I'd verify with the md5sum keys posted by Canonical).
Since I am really happy with my device as it is, and the ease of updating via OTA, I didn't want to give that up, just for the couple things I want to do with root access.
You do realize when you apply an OTA update you lose your root access and there is a possibility that it'll be harder to even have your device rooted in the future.
For example, the mt4g, everybody got happy and updated to the gingerbread OTA, but lost root and nobody found out how to exploit it until about a month later or so.. and that is only by downgrading which is a tedious process that many, who don't know how to use ADB, have troubles with.
I believe the OTA updates comes with new bootloaders and radios, not only the rom, so it will lock your bootloader. (I think) that's what it does to other devices. Who knows if htcdev will work on all bootloaders. just my two cents, if you want full control of your device, unlock bootloader and root it. You can get every OTA update through developers here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, unless these devices have backup/secondary bootloaders, I doubt and OTA update would flash a new one, as an error during that flash could brick the device. It would seem odd that HTC would promise to unlock bootloaders, give an OTA update that would not work with their site. I'm not saying that it couldn't happen, just seems unlikely. Was the MT4G unlock done via? If it was an exploit to gain root, then I'd understand why they'd loose root.
oryan_dunn said:
Hmm, unless these devices have backup/secondary bootloaders, I doubt and OTA update would flash a new one, as an error during that flash could brick the device. It would seem odd that HTC would promise to unlock bootloaders, give an OTA update that would not work with their site. I'm not saying that it couldn't happen, just seems unlikely. Was the MT4G unlock done via? If it was an exploit to gain root, then I'd understand why they'd loose root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HTC has updated their bootloaders via OTA on a few occasions. And we know that HTC and T-Mobile (along with other carriers) read these forums as well (shout out to HTC and our wireless carriers) so almost literally the day of an exploit is discovered and if HTC isn't happy with our findings what do you suppose they will do? They will almost always look for the safest way to update the bootloader and keep us from being able to use that exploit. Seeing that we still don't have S-OFF (and may never have it) they are obviously doing all they can to make it more and more difficult. That in itself is proof that they don't want us to have it. So would they push an OTA to keep us locked to S-ON if they can? You better believe it!
I can see them patching a hole that would get you S-OFF, but seems odd that they would take back an unlocked bootloader that they themselves unlocked.
I guess I'm ok with the offical unlock method without S-OFF, if the only things I can't do are flash a new bootloader, radio, or unlock the SIM. Did I miss anything there?
I don't get it, you say you want to use root on the stock roms, and now you're saying why bother downloading a stock ROM that is prerooted when you can download stock ROM that isn't rooted ota? What is the difference? You're going to want to root the ota updates and the developers are already providing it for you. it doesn't matter where you get it, you're gonna use some 3rd party exploit to root the ROM anyways.
You my friend seems to have a indecisive problem. I understand that you want to understand the process, but if you don't want anything to do with 3rd party developing you're in the wrong place. You're making your life very hard.
And i think that's about it about being s-on. It's more of the hardware functionality that is locked.
Think about it as a locked bios kinda... Lol
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Teo032 said:
I don't get it, you say you want to use root on the stock roms, and now you're saying why bother downloading a stock ROM that is prerooted when you can download stock ROM that isn't rooted ota? What is the difference? You're going to want to root the ota updates and the developers are already providing it for you. it doesn't matter where you get it, you're gonna use some 3rd party exploit to root the ROM anyways.
You my friend seems to have a indecisive problem. I understand that you want to understand the process, but if you don't want anything to do with 3rd party developing you're in the wrong place. You're making your life very hard.
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't need to use an exploit to root the stock rom. I can unlock my bootloader direct from HTC, flash a new recovery, and then flash the superuser program. That was kinda my point in asking in the first place... why use an exploit (one-click), when an official route is available?
oryan_dunn said:
I don't need to use an exploit to root the stock rom. I can unlock my bootloader direct from HTC, flash a new recovery, and then flash the superuser program. That was kinda my point in asking in the first place... why use an exploit (one-click), when an official route is available?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's considered official? It's basically the same thing..
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Teo032 said:
That's considered official? It's basically the same thing..
Sent from my HTC_Amaze_4G using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, yeah, you end up at the same place, except instead of using an exploit, I go to HTC to get an unlock code. I'd consider it official since I'd go through HTC to get the ball rolling.

[Q] So i bought an Atrix, and installed OTA, whats next?

Hi guys! I have a couple of questions. I just updated my Atrix to 2.3.4 by OTA update, so i created a brickable device, haven't i? I would like to know what i have to do know, i want to root the phone and unlock the bootloader to install custom roms, but im afraid to brick my new phone. I have read a lot the past two hours, but im still not sure about what to do now in order to unlock the phone and achieve root.
Also, the device will brick if i try to flash any 2.2 rom, no matter how i flash it (via CWM for example)? Or only if i flash a 1.8.3 SBF via RSDLite? Are there any other files that i have to avoid if i don't want to brick my phone?
Thanks for helping me out guys!
djluis48 said:
Hi guys! I have a couple of questions. I just updated my Atrix to 2.3.4 by OTA update, so i created a brickable device, haven't i? I would like to know what i have to do know, i want to root the phone and unlock the bootloader to install custom roms, but im afraid to brick my new phone. I have read a lot the past two hours, but im still not sure about what to do now in order to unlock the phone and achieve root.
Also, the device will brick if i try to flash any 2.2 rom, no matter how i flash it (via CWM for example)? Or only if i flash a 1.8.3 SBF via RSDLite? Are there any other files that i have to avoid if i don't want to brick my phone?
Thanks for helping me out guys!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After you unlock the boot loader, do not flash any sbf prior to 4.5.91. In fact after you unlock the boot loader, there's no need to flash a sbf at all, b/c you can just flash a fruitcake to return to stock.
As far as picking a ROM, it doesn't really matter... any ROM that requires a unlocked boot loader (which they all do), it is at least based off of gingerbread Android 2.3.4+
Use the pudding unlock sbf to unlock your boot loader. Most rooms include root. See my sig for further info.
Sent from my CM7 Atrix 4G
Swiftks said:
After you unlock the boot loader, do not flash any sbf prior to 4.5.91. In fact after you unlock the boot loader, there's no need to flash a sbf at all, b/c you can just flash a fruitcake to return to stock.
As far as picking a ROM, it doesn't really matter... any ROM that requires a unlocked boot loader (which they all do), it is at least based off of gingerbread Android 2.3.4+
Use the pudding unlock sbf to unlock your boot loader. Most rooms include root. See my sig for further info.
Sent from my CM7 Atrix 4G
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your fast response! So, if i use the auto-unlocker on that thread, it wont brick my device right? Thanks for pointing me that, it seems very usefull. Now, this leads me to the next question, i also have to SIM Unlock my Atrix, because its locked to ATT and im trying to use it outside the US, so i need to SIM unlock it, i have seen several threads of users reporting problems SIM unlocking the phone, should i wait for the SIM Unlock code before proceding to unlock the bootloader? I have already ordered one, the guys should email it any time now, it will take less than 24hrs, and no less than 2hrs (which have already passed).
Thanks for your answers guys!
EDIT: Couldn't resist, unlocked the bootloader and achieved root. It was super easy with the automated batch. I hope i don't run into problems when i try to SIM unlock the phone lol

New Atrix 4G user needs help

Hi guys,
Just now got a new Atrix 4G off Amazon. It's an AT&T unlocked one. I am totally confused with all the processes posted here about unlocking the boot loader and stuff. I used to be a Defy user, but rooting and installing ROMs in Defy were a bit simpler than this.
Model - MB860
System - 4.5.141.MB860.ATT.en.US
Android version - 2.3.6
Kernel - 2.6.32.9
I want to flash either MIUI or Cyanogenmod. Should I unlock the bootloader first or root first. Can anybody help me out, pointing the right links? I couldn't find any guide for 2.3.6. and I don't want to brick my device.
Thanks a ton in advance
Wolvish
Whenever getting my Atrix replaced by Best Buy Mobile, I find these steps easier to follow in lesser words:
1. download ROM of choice and place it on the internal memory card
2. use automatic boot loader script
3. flash Romracer's recovery via command prompt
4. flash ROM
5. profit!
It's just easier to do this vs. rooting the phone/stock ROM first, finding that install-recovery.sh crap, and then doing the process to unlock the bootloader/flashing custom ROMs.
Sent from my MB860 using xda app-developers app
Read the threads you think don't cover 2.3.6. They have recent comments so you should assume people commenting might be on 2.3.6. I was on the same version as you and I'm unlocked and running CM10. The titles of the methods aren't updated but they still work (some of them) for yours. The threads god into amazing detail about how you do it, but make sure you read the comments too because those are more up to date than the original post. And if you say it's unlocked already then why would you unlock it again? If you boot up your phone and it says unlocked in the upper right corner when the motorola symbol is up then you are past the hard part. After that just get a custom recovery (Romracers) and flash your ROM
TotalBS said:
Read the threads you think don't cover 2.3.6. They have recent comments so you should assume people commenting might be on 2.3.6. I was on the same version as you and I'm unlocked and running CM10. The titles of the methods aren't updated but they still work (some of them) for yours. The threads god into amazing detail about how you do it, but make sure you read the comments too because those are more up to date than the original post. And if you say it's unlocked already then why would you unlock it again? If you boot up your phone and it says unlocked in the upper right corner when the motorola symbol is up then you are past the hard part. After that just get a custom recovery (Romracers) and flash your ROM
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It does not show 'unlocked' during boot up. It's unlocked from AT&T (working with my SIM card). Isn't that different from a unlocked bootloader? So I should do that pudding thing next? BTW what is automatic boot loader script?
I read that downgrading from 4.5.141 is causing hardbrick, that's why I'm scared..
Deggy said:
1. download ROM of choice and place it on the internal memory card
2. use automatic boot loader script
3. flash Romracer's recovery via command prompt
4. flash ROM
5. profit!
It's just easier to do this vs. rooting the phone/stock ROM first, finding that install-recovery.sh crap, and then doing the process to unlock the bootloader/flashing custom ROMs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I do this for any ROM? I'm pretty much satisfied with MIUI, not going to try anything else.
Yes any ROM. Read the sticky in the Atrix general forum. The noob guide one.
Sent from my MB860 using xda app-developers app
WolVish said:
It does not show 'unlocked' during boot up. It's unlocked from AT&T (working with my SIM card). Isn't that different from a unlocked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, two completely different things.
AT&T has absolutely nothing to do with your bootloader. You need to deal with that yourself. And yes, you need pudding for that.
Can I use this method instead?
http://wiki.cyanogenmod.com/wiki/Motorola_Atrix_4G:_Full_Update_Guide
It's the same exact thing.

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