Thanks a lot to everyone who sent me TA backups with Omnius.
Omnius now officially supports TA backup/restore for MSM7X30 phones (new Xperias).
So, if you haven't unlocked bootloader yet, this thread is for you.
* First, download Omnius.
* Install and run it.
* Select Xperia Play from the list (you can type in Play for faster search).
* Go to Advanced, and click Backup TA.
* Follow on-screen instructions.
* After done, backup will be saved to C:\ProgramData\Omnius for SE\Backups\Xperia PLAY
Keep it in a safe place.
When phone bricks, i.e. after OTA update, after flashing, or suddenly it starts losing signal, and reflash won't fix it, restore this backup.
You can do it either via Omnius (few euros for one day license), or...
I'm talking to Androxyde about TA backup/restore in FlashTool, or as a standalone tool, so that shouldn't be too far away.
Related
I have 2 questions.
1st question: I would like to install Championswimmer's Xperia S port rom (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1516960) to my Xperia X10i, but I don't want to lose my contacts. So I made a backup on xRecovery.
When I install the ROM and everything else, how do I use xRecovery to get my settings/data/call logs back after it's installed? I think going into xRecovery>Backup and Restore>Restore should do it. So any tips?
2nd question: How do I check if my phone's bootloader is locked or unlocked? Can I use the locked bootloader method of installing his if my phone happens to be unlocked? I tried using s1tool to identify but for some reason it wouldn't work. Are there any other methods?
Thanks.
Xperia X10i
2.3.3 Gingerbread
Wolfxperia Rom
1) If -you- have not unlocked your bootloader it's locked. To make sure it's locked u can find a tool in the unlock bootloader thread which will tell u, if it's locked/unlocked..
2) If you're on stock ROM, I suggest u to backup apps (with data) using Titanium Backup (& not recovery).. And backup sms, contacts, bookmarks, call log, etc with backup & restore application (from se)
Good luck
How would I backup everything else? I got Titanium Backup and it worked great for apps. Could you give me a link to SE's backup and restore for contacts, call logs, everything else, etc. ?
Hey,
here is the Link
http://www.elita-clan.com/downloads/backup_and_restore_v010935.apk
If you only want to save your contacts, you can easily make a backup via the Contact export and then save the created vsc or vcs file on your computer. Easiest way- after that you can easily import contacts. If you don´t like this method , use the above ones.
If you want to check your Bootloader download the S1 tool :
http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=713763&d=1315496032
Make sure you are admin and you have installed ADB SEMC(Gordons Gate) drivers. Then it will work 100%ly,
If you want to unlock your bootloader just easily download newest flashtool from Androxyde and Bin4ry. After that go to plugins and run and you will see the magic.
For this rom you don´t need an unlocked bootloader - simply install this
usrers on locked bootloader/stock sony kernel are to flash this zip http://forum.xda-developers.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=701480&stc=1&d=1314391453 after installing rom everytime
If I helped don´t be shy and hit the thanks button
Hi all I was browsing the internet for ways to root my tablet z but as I was going through some pages a few stated that if you root your tablet z you will losse your bravia engine 2 is that even possible and how true is it please thanks
I just got done going through the entire process. I would like to say that the stickies on this forum are utter **** and don't stress the importance of backing up your TA partition. I was on the latest kernel/firmware from Sony when I did this.
1. Enable developer options by repeatedly pressing Build Number under Settings->About and then goto Settings->Developer Options and enable USB debugging.
2. Enable apps from unknown sources under Settings->Security.
3. Root phone with VRoot or equivalent method. This worked for me on the latest version. http://www.mgyun.com/vroot
4. Now use TA Backup to backup your TA partition. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598 YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU UNLOCK THE BOOTLOADER OR BE2 AND DRM KEYS WILL BE LOST FOREVER!!!!!
5. Unlock bootloader through Sony's process. http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/
Now you are on stock kernel with an unlocked bootloader. To reverse the process all you need to do is run TA Backup and restore. Your bootloader will be locked and your DRM and BE2 features will work again. In other words, it will look like nothing ever happened to your device if you need to restore for warranty or just want to revert back to stock with all features in tact.
Now I went on to install the latest official CyanogenMod build. Currently there is no stable build for 10.2, but I have been using the RC1 and recently upgraded to M1 (the milestone release) and it has been working great!
1. Download milestone for pollux_windy http://download.cyanogenmod.org/?device=pollux_windy&type=snapshot
2. Download gapps http://wiki.cyanogenmod.org/w/Gapps
3. Follow tutorial. Make sure you flash pollux_windy (Wi-Fi) build not pollux (3G/LTE) or your will soft brick. http://wiki.cyanogenmod.org/w/Install_CM_for_pollux
Congratulations, you are now on the latest build of CyanogenMod! DO NOT DO A TA BACKUP RESTORE ON CM OR YOU WILL BRICK. YOU MUST FLASH THE STOCK ROM AND KERNEL, THEN RUN TA BACKUP.
If this helped you hit Thanks.
So not even flashing a full stock FTF will restore those partitions? What does Bravia Engine 2 actually do, I have not noticed any sort of difference in display. What does TA stand for as a abbreviation?
It is indeed a shame that this is not mentioned more often, especially Sony should let you know that you are losing some features when you go through the unlocking process.
Relys said:
I just got done going through the entire process. I would like to say that the stickies on this forum are utter **** and don't stress the importance of backing up your TA partition. I was on the latest kernel/firmware from Sony when I did this.
1. Enable developer options by repeatedly pressing Build Number under Settings->About and then goto Settings->Developer Options and enable USB debugging.
2. Enable apps from unknown sources under Settings->Security.
3. Root phone with VRoot or equivalent method. This worked for me on the latest version. http://www.mgyun.com/vroot
4. Now use TA Backup to backup your TA partition. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598 YOU MUST DO THIS BEFORE YOU UNLOCK THE BOOTLOADER OR BE2 AND DRM KEYS WILL BE LOST FOREVER!!!!!
5. Unlock bootloader through Sony's process. http://unlockbootloader.sonymobile.com/
Now you are on stock kernel with an unlocked bootloader. To reverse the process all you need to do is run TA Backup and restore. Your bootloader will be locked and your DRM and BE2 features will work again. In other words, it will look like nothing ever happened to your device if you need to restore for warranty or just want to revert back to stock with all features in tact.
Now I went on to install the latest official CyanogenMod build. Currently there is no stable build for 10.2, but I have been using the RC1 and recently upgraded to M1 (the milestone release) and it has been working great!
1. Download milestone for pollux_windy http://download.cyanogenmod.org/?device=pollux_windy&type=snapshot
2. Download gapps http://wiki.cyanogenmod.org/w/Gapps
3. Follow tutorial. Make sure you flash pollux_windy (Wi-Fi) build not pollux (3G/LTE) or your will soft brick. http://wiki.cyanogenmod.org/w/Install_CM_for_pollux
Congratulations, you are now on the latest build of CyanogenMod! DO NOT DO A TA BACKUP RESTORE ON CM OR YOU WILL BRICK. YOU MUST FLASH THE STOCK ROM AND KERNEL, THEN RUN TA BACKUP.
If this helped you hit Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much hope you didn't loose your be2 and if you have have you noticed any difference. Also is your tablet the lte version just wondering if that makes any difference
Hi everyone,
I'm hoping to use this thread to get the full story on the whole DRM keys issue that comes with unlocking your bootloader. For myself to get a clear picture, but also for others who are interested.
So far I've only been able to find bits and pieces about what exactly the DRM keys do, and how to handle them, I'll start off by writing what I (think I) know, please correct me if I'm wrong:
What do the DRM keys do?
So far I found out they're needed to run the Walkman app, which is understandable as it involves music purchases which are DRM protected.
Personally, I couldn't care less about this app not working anymore, your opinion might differ.
I also heard they're needed for the 'Bravia engine', now this is something that concerns me more, so far I haven't been able to find out what exactly is this 'bravia engine', I would go on a limb and say it's the screen rendering engine, and removing the DRM keys could completely mess up the colors or something, but this is a pure guess, and could be completely wrong. This is the first point which needs clarification.
Can the DRM keys be backed up?
Until recently, no, since the DRM keys reside in the 'TA partition', backing them up was something which required root access, and then again root access was something that could only be obtained by unlocking the bootloader, which in turn wipes the 'TA partition' before you could back it up.
However, since recently, there's a way:
Thanks to our famous friend geohot, we have recently got the ability to root our tablet using his 'towelroot' app. It works by breaking into a kernel vulnerability present on the stock ROM, and inserting root access that way, thus not touching the bootloader (which effectively remains locked). Since we now have root access I was able create a backup of my TA partition, which I've safely backed up to google drive, just in case.
Here are the threads I used to get me this far:
Root my device
Backup TA partition
Install XZDualRecovery
So now I have a rooted stock ROM, XZDualRecovery (which includes TWRP recovery which I prefer), and backed up TA partition.
Can the DRM keys be restored?
According to Install XZDualRecovery"]the thread of the 'TA Backup tool'[/URL] , yes. I haven't tried this out myself, so no personal experience here.
It also says that restoring the keys effectively re-locks your bootloader, which brings you back to zero off course...
Note: The thread explicitly says that trying to restore a 'TA backup' which was created on another device, will effectively hard-brick your device!
For this boils down to 2 options:
Either you can live with a locked bootloader, and have the DRM keys in place
Or you unlock it, and use the device without DRM keys
Off course to make this choice, we have to fully understand what exactly stops working when DRM keys are removed.
Hi, i tried alrdy to restore DRM after i flashed castor CM11 on my Tablet, but i softbricked them. I was in hope that this way will give me a chance to use Sony aps etc.
I restored with Flashtool , now is all ok and Running without DRM. I mean the TA Partition mess up with Bootloader so your Device will not Boot after u try to restore them.
Except on Stock ROM..
ive also came to the same conclusion but heres the thing...ive got an Ultra Z which i had the bootloader unlocked without backing up the TA Partition. Ive installed TWRP, wiped it clean and flashed PA Rom. Then decided to go back to Stock and now everything works as it should. Bravia engine is enabled, walkman app works and the OTA is working as it should. So what am i missing here?
Android 4.4.2 .757 IN
C6802
I have the boot loader unlocked and on DoomKernel v20.
I want to go back to stock Kernel and only have it rooted.
Also have TA backup.
Best way to proceed would be helpful as per the relock thread I need to update kernel.sin first from stock rom.
"before u relock bootloader u have to be on pure stock kernel (flash only the kernel.sin using flashtool), else the device WILL NOT BOOT after relock"
1) When I try this option in flashtool, there are 3 files which are being installed. Kernel.sin, rmp.sin and loader.sin. How do I exclude rpm.sin and loader.sin?
2) Once I relock, do i flash the stock rom using flashtool and than restore TA using backupTA or is there another process.
I searched but could not find an appropriate thread with the steps.
Regards
Charles
kidrock23 said:
Android 4.4.2 .757 IN
C6802
I have the boot loader unlocked and on DoomKernel v20.
I want to go back to stock Kernel and only have it rooted.
Also have TA backup.
Best way to proceed would be helpful as per the relock thread I need to update kernel.sin first from stock rom.
"before u relock bootloader u have to be on pure stock kernel (flash only the kernel.sin using flashtool), else the device WILL NOT BOOT after relock"
1) When I try this option in flashtool, there are 3 files which are being installed. Kernel.sin, rmp.sin and loader.sin. How do I exclude rpm.sin and loader.sin?
2) Once I relock, do i flash the stock rom using flashtool and than restore TA using backupTA or is there another process.
I searched but could not find an appropriate thread with the steps.
Regards
Charles
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/general/guide-everything-root-4-4-4-t2938098 should have the answers, but there are a few ways to reach the end goal.
I would doe it this way
Download the latest india FTF (the one you have?)
Restore TA (this will leave the ZU un-bootable)
Start Flashtool
Select Flashmode
Select the FTF
Uncheck the Wipe DATA (leave checked if you want to have a clean install)
Select only kernel.sin if you want to keep your stuff on the ZU (Don't worry about the other images that will also get prepared, they will only get flashed if they need updating)
Select everything if you want a clean install
Start the flash
Restart ZU in Flashmode
Thanks Blueether, this was pretty simple
Cheers
Regards
Charles
blueether said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/general/guide-everything-root-4-4-4-t2938098 should have the answers, but there are a few ways to reach the end goal.
I would doe it this way
Download the latest india FTF (the one you have?)
Restore TA (this will leave the ZU un-bootable)
Start Flashtool
Select Flashmode
Select the FTF
Uncheck the Wipe DATA (leave checked if you want to have a clean install)
Select only kernel.sin if you want to keep your stuff on the ZU (Don't worry about the other images that will also get prepared, they will only get flashed if they need updating)
Select everything if you want a clean install
Start the flash
Restart ZU in Flashmode
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about me? I don't have a backed up TA partition. How do the steps go for me?
Same for me here, I didn't back up TA partition but i want to re-lock Bootloader. Is it possible or i am doomed now?? I need to send my device to a Sony Service Center, for replacement and i need to revert to full factory condition otherwise my warranty is void.
I thought that unlocking bootloader doesn't void warranty since it is officially provided by Sony and they don't mention anywhere during the procedure that you loose your warranty but their service representatives have a different opinion.
Sent from my Xperia Z Ultra using Tapatalk
Godaemon said:
Same for me here, I didn't back up TA partition but i want to re-lock Bootloader. Is it possible or i am doomed now?? I need to send my device to a Sony Service Center, for replacement and i need to revert to full factory condition otherwise my warranty is void.
I thought that unlocking bootloader doesn't void warranty since it is officially provided by Sony and they don't mention anywhere during the procedure that you loose your warranty but their service representatives have a different opinion.
Sent from my Xperia Z Ultra using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
Voiding the warranty
If you unlock the boot loader, you may void the warranty of your device and/or any warranty from your operator. See your device’s warranty statement for details. Additionally, due to the modified device software, Sony’s repair network will likely have to replace key components before it can properly test, repair and verify your device using our repair tools and software. Consequently, if Sony performs a warranty repair, Sony will likely charge you a significant service fee for the additional costs caused by your modification of the software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks to be plainly stated to me
To lock the bootloader without a TA backup just use flash tool and the padlock icon
blueether said:
http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
Looks to be plainly stated to me
To lock the bootloader without a TA backup just use flash tool and the padlock icon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The padlock icon which shows the lock as open reads "Root device". Are you talking about that one? But its greyed out along with the other ones to the left in the same row.
jenxrj said:
The padlock icon which shows the lock as open reads "Root device". Are you talking about that one? But its greyed out along with the other ones to the left in the same row.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I got the wrong icon, use the BLU one - I was going by memory and it must have been too long ago that I used flashtool
There is still no guarantee that they will take it with missing keys - good luck
blueether said:
Sorry, I got the wrong icon, use the BLU one - I was going by memory and it must have been too long ago that I used flashtool
There is still no guarantee that they will take it with missing keys - good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mate, that is the Bootloader unlock option which I had used to unlock the bootloader initially, I'm not sure it will lock the bootloader mate.
I have another offtopic question for you mate, can you how the memory configuration of a device? I am asking this because, I restored my rom+apps from a nandroid backup which had all my apps and games, and approximately about 5 GB. Naturally, after the restoration, I saw that the internal sd card memory had reduced in size by about ~4-5GB. But the issue is that when I checked the folders from the internal SD card, it says that all folders are only a few mb in size. Where are the files getting restored to and which part of memory is it getting restored to. How much is the phone memory and how much in size is the internal storage[internal sd card]. Where are my apps going? I know their location in root, but I would like to know how where they are mapped from.
jenxrj said:
Mate, that is the Bootloader unlock option which I had used to unlock the bootloader initially, I'm not sure it will lock the bootloader mate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try it
It should lock it as well when in an unlocked state - I have done this many times when testing root methods pre towelroot
I have another offtopic question for you mate, can you how the memory configuration of a device? I am asking this because, I restored my rom+apps from a nandroid backup which had all my apps and games, and approximately about 5 GB. Naturally, after the restoration, I saw that the internal sd card memory had reduced in size by about ~4-5GB. But the issue is that when I checked the folders from the internal SD card, it says that all folders are only a few mb in size. Where are the files getting restored to and which part of memory is it getting restored to. How much is the phone memory and how much in size is the internal storage[internal sd card]. Where are my apps going? I know their location in root, but I would like to know how where they are mapped from.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pass
blueether said:
Try it
It should lock it as well when in an unlocked state - I have done this many times when testing root methods pre towelroot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a way to restore DRM keys from TA backup or any other method after unlocking the BL?
Go here This tool will back up as well as restore
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598
Hi,
I spent hours reading dozens of threads and I'm still confused about main steps I should follow to root my phone safely and without losing data or features. Maybe clarifications will also be helpful to other noobs.
I read in detail this thread (and several other threads, to be honest..) but I'm still not yet clear about several aspects.. Can you help me ?
I have a M4 Aqual Dual (E2333) in 26.1.B.2.147 and 5.0 android. My phone states "Bootloader unlock allowed: Yes"
My target is to root the device to be able to "clean" a few things (like apps starting up at boot..), but ideally I'd prefer keeping the OTA capability.
1) I understood from some posts that I need first to unlock my bootloader. I could do it using Sony's website, but then I understood from other threads that I'd lose OTA capability and also that it would factory reset my phone. Is it correct ? Is there a way to unlock bootloader on my phone without losing OTA (like in question 2) below) ? (I obviously did not accept automatically every OTA update, but being able to benefit from it in future could be useful)
2) I read in other threads that it seems possible to flash my phone with earlier FW (like 26.1.B.1.85) (without root nor unlock bootloader), then use rootkitxperia to be able to "backup TA" and "DRM" to re-enable later on the OTA capability. Is it correct ? I found a thread on how to flash back to old FW and "backup TA" but I did not understand how to restore DRM and OTA later on: do you know a tutorial explaining how to restore DRM and OTA feature ?
3) I read a long thread for rooting (http://forum.xda-developers.com/m4-aqua/general/root-t3421932) which seems most often successful. But can I apply that method on my device, or do I need to first update to latest official firmware from Sony ? (since that thread titles "6.0")
4) to avoid losing my personal datas (SMS, pictures, documents, configurations of apps,..), what is best approach for backup ? Using an app like Titanium and backing up each app separately with all its datas (incl apk) ? Any trick to avoid huge backup files ?
Thanks a lot for your explanations and all the work you did already on this forum.
br,
I can't answer to all your questions as they are too technical for me (like OTA capatibility, TA, DRM). But I can describe how I have down.
1) How to root M4. I have unrooted my phone. I followed this video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHAcze1T4sQ
I had to try 2 times before being the phone was rooted
2) Backup APPS and Datas
I used Titanium Backup : http://www.android.gs/backup-and-restore-your-android-device-using-clockworkmod-recovery-2/
and Sony PC companion for all your SMS
3) Install ADBTools : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=48915118#post48915118
I had lots of troubles with the Driver. Sometimes when I plugged my phone, Windows didn't recognise my ADB driver or Fastboot driver. I had to do it manually
4) Unlock Bootloader : http://rootmygalaxy.net/unlock-bootloader-android-using-fastboot-commands/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHeoPc0yvLE
http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/imei-verification/8c153d164f691864749b033fed40cd57/
When I had to press the button at the button, I always read Press ON + VOLUME DOWN, for me it was VOLUME UP Oo I don't know why, but did work
The Led becomes blue
5) Install TWRP - To make a recovery of everything if you have any problem with the system
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1bvhPSvrbY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2Qeb8DhQfc
To launch the recovery mode, I boot the system, and while there is the Sony logo, I wait phone vibrating + led has a colour. At that moment I press VOLUME DOWN repeatdly as long I could see TWRP.
I hoped that help
Also I have a problem after installing Xposed Framework. If you can tell if you encounter any problem.
Thank you
About the TA partition, it seems impossible to have an unlocked bootloader WITH TA partition files, because the TA partition relocks bootloader.
EDIT: For MM, as there is no way to root LB