WOOO. After 3 days of playing around, I've got a fully rooted P769 running AntonX's CM10.1 with an unlocked bootloader. I got it 8/5/13 from Amazon for $150, and it's a freaking sweet phone for the price. I wanted a backup phone to play around with, and I couldn't have asked for a better device (well... debateable).
*As of 8/19/13, it's priced at $179 from Amazon versus $240 from T-Mobile.
Obviously, it goes without saying that this thread is completely unnecessary. This thread could be completely ignored by everyone else and I wouldn't mind, because it'll be my own one-stop shop for when I have to redo everything in the future.
I'm going to detail my process and experience, and link all the relevant files and images. I had to do the entire process with about 5 to 7 different XDA threads up and it got extremely annoying trying to maintain a semblance of order. I'll be linking to original threads/posts, but I fully intend on putting all the necessary information here in this post so people don't go thread hopping. Of course, credit will be given where credit is due, which is a lot of people.
Finally, it's nice to finally make an XDA post. This is my first! The community here is fantastic. Maybe someday down the road I'll fork a CM build or something, but for now I'm content.
DISCLAIMERS: I did not read all the XDA posts related to this device. Thus, I may have skipped over some super easy methods to doing things. This is just my own experience and interpretations of the posts I did read.
I am not the most experienced person when it comes to Android development. I'm just extremely organized and like clear and precise instructions. Because this post will be written from memory, I can't guarantee that there aren't any mistakes. I will, however, reinstall a stock ROM, unroot, etc, and do it all over again. I can't relock my bootloader, but I should still be able to test the whole 30 minute wait thing.
NOTE THAT I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANYTHING THAT HAPPENS SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO FOLLOW ANY INSTRUCTIONS WITHIN MY POST.
As I mentioned in the disclaimer, I may have missed out on some easier methods of rooting, recovery installing, etc. PLEASE provide different methods or links, simply so I can keep track of it and so other people who may be following my methods can live life easier.
Updates/Timeline:
8/19/13: Outlined the general process, went into specifics about the introduction/requirements and SIM unlock. Began discussing the bootloader.
8/8/13: As I am currently at work (taking a break), I won't be fully completing this post out until later this evening (EST) or weekend. I did, however, want to let it be known that I am available to help assist anyone that needs help via PM's or replies to this thread.
Process
Requirements
SIM Unlock
Bootloader Unlock
Rooting
Recovery Installation
ROM Install
Introductions/Requirements
These instructions are for the T-Mobile P769 variant of the LG Optimus L9. If you are not rocking this device, thanks for browsing my post anyways. I wholeheartedly recommend it if you're looking for an entry-level Android device with greater capabilities than standard prepaid smartphones. My device came stock with V20D.
I did everything with a 4GB microSD card installed. This is necessary for when we move apk's, ROMs, zips, and backups.
Make a backup of your ROM. If you aren't using the device as your backup/play-around like I am, please, please, please make a backup (for those of you with rooted and CWM already). For me, I'm fine re-installing stock ROMs and going through the process of unbricking. If you're on the stock ROM, there might be some apps available to back up settings that you can restore later on (someone please suggest something good if you're familiar, I've always used recovery backups).
I use Windows 7 for everything. This may be an absolute requirement, I'll have to check the application compatibility.
There will be programs and files that you need. I will list and link out in the next update. For now, the bootloader has links to required files.
SIM Unlock
SIM unlocking should be the first thing that you do if you anticipate using non-T-Mobile services. SIM unlocking only works on T-Mobile ROMs, though my eBay code worked via a Wind ROM as well.
Obtaining your unlock code:
If you bought your device directly from a T-Mobile store (may need your receipt), then you are entitled to the SIM unlock code directly from T-Mobile. Call customer service and mention going abroad on a trip, etc. Or just demand it. Be nice.
If you purchased it from a store like Walmart, Amazon, or Radioshack, then you will need to purchase your unlock code elsewhere. Please note, there is no "official" seller of such codes. However, codes are determined using algorithms that depend on your device's IMEI, so plenty of people provide them via eBay, websites, etc.
I can CONFIRM that the seller via this link provides working SIM unlock codes. Please note that it is NOT an eBay listing, despite being on eBay. It uses a frame within the eBay posting that redirects you to purchase directly through PayPal. I received both instructions and the code within 24 hours, as advertised.
Using your unlock code
The easiest way to use the code is to pop a spare micro-SIM from another carrier into your phone. When you attempt to use the phone, it'll prompt for a code. Input the code and it will confirm success.
The alternative method for those without a spare SIM card is to pull up the SIM unlock menu. Dial 2945#*769# from the dialer, then select Network Unlock. Input the code and it will confirm success.
Bootloader Unlock
Please note, that there are some details that I am somewhat fuzzy on (the exact version of the V20B ROM that I used, for example). I will go into as much detail (and confirm/edit them when I/others try it again).
The main source of headaches when playing with this device. I'm going to provide a general background and introduction on the process and provide important links. There's a lot of detail to go into this section that I won't be able to fully finish this for a day or so. But I can start pointing people in the right direction.
To learn about the KDZ flashing process until I fully explain it, visit @cmahendra’s excellent post on it. Please thank him.
The process I originally followed to unlock the bootloader was from this post. Make sure you thank @pinoyto.
My instructions for this will actually combine the both the KDZ and the bootloader posts/instructions into one. In order to provide the simplest and clearest instructions, I will type up the process tomorrow night while performing it on my phone. Again, I don’t want to misdirect people and have them viewing multiple pages in order to perform the process. So if you’d like to get started immediately, by all means follow the original instructions that are excellent.
Appreciations
Some quick thank yous until I can properly finish this thread:
@cmahendra: For filling my eyes and mind with your words the past 3 days. I think I've read all your threads on this phone now.
@pinoyto: For your post from March. I'm pretty sure you helped me unlock my bootloader. I need to redo your guide on my phone to confirm it.
@carloswii5: For your video and files. Obviously, I went at this like a noob first.
@Lelus: For being a HUGE part of the thanking chain. And your touch screen fix.
@AntonX: For your build of CM10.1. For an unofficial experimental/nightly, this build is FAST and STABLE.
I'll probably keep throwing in names as I finish this thread.
This isn't a bad phone to have if one has taken the plunge and root/unlock bootloader, or don't install many apps. Things don't get bad until space runs out lol.
Sent from my LG-P769 using Tapatalk 4
Sounds great! How's the battery life btw?
AntonX's CM10.1 makes a huge difference all around.
Sent from my Pokédex
Mensarius said:
Sounds great! How's the battery life btw?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in the process of restoring a stock ROM on it so I can carrier unlock the device and use my AT&T sim to test it. Unfortunately, until I get that wrapped up, I won't be able to comment on the battery life. It's been great so far, but the extent to which I'm using it is simply WiFi and the screen. I can say this though: I leave it on overnight uncharged, wifi on, with all my apps downloaded and syncing if necessary, and it drops about 5%. So idling for about 6-8 hours, those numbers aren't so bad.
Looking forward for your guide!
T-Mobile just tried to sell me this phone. I found your thread and went to Amazon. Thanks guy, you saved me 70 bucks and I'm sure the wife will love her new phone. I'm looking forward to your guide & for her to stop nagging about her old (first generation Samsung galaxy) phone (I'm sure there will be other things for her to move on to now.. lol).
Just so you know AntonX's CM10.1 doesn't have the space issue!! he found the solution so our phones see the sd card seamlessly as storage space on the phone and also with app2sd enabled so give it a try.
Very interested in your guide, hope you post it soon.
Sent from my LG-P769 using xda app-developers app
queboy89 said:
I'm in the process of restoring a stock ROM on it so I can carrier unlock the device and use my AT&T sim to test it. Unfortunately, until I get that wrapped up, I won't be able to comment on the battery life. It's been great so far, but the extent to which I'm using it is simply WiFi and the screen. I can say this though: I leave it on overnight uncharged, wifi on, with all my apps downloaded and syncing if necessary, and it drops about 5%. So idling for about 6-8 hours, those numbers aren't so bad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm looking forward to your instructions. I am fed up with all the bloody forums and threads and out-dated and contradictory information, not to mention the appalling English, which often makes things very ambiguous and difficult to understand.
My USA T-Mobile LG Optimus L9 P769 is rooted (I used the very simple LGpwn.apk method) and I have also installed the ClockWorkMod (CWM) using the L9RecoveryInstaller APK (v1.5.0). My bootloader is still locked, though, so I am limited with what I can do. I have already SIM-unlocked it (that was the first thing I did, since I travel internationally).
What I really bought the phone for was to use as a portable hotspot. I live in Australia where, like most of the world, wireless tethering is FREE and a simple matter of ticking the ON box. I have used my jailbroken iPhone 5 as a portable hotspot on my USA T-Mobile SIM card before and if worked fine. But this Optimus L9 just won't let me tether successfully. Any of the apps in the play store that successfully set up a mobile hotspot are useless, because I simply get redirected to T-Mobile's info page telling me I need to pay for tethering.
So I am hoping a new ROM might be faster and also help me get around my tethering issues.
Once again, I'm looking forward to your guide
Really sorry about the delay in getting the guide up. My girlfriend just left for a 10 month teaching trip in Macau, so I've been spending time with her and handling some other things.
I'll be working on the guide tomorrow night, I have some free time.
I think I'll be doing a couple different things. From browsing around on the newer posts, there have been a few newer methods with regards to rooting and installing CWM/recoveries. I'll list out the exact steps I took (which honestly consisted of slightly more manual methods). In any case, it seems like unlocking the bootloader is the most difficult part at the moment. I will definitely elaborate on that part.
queboy89 said:
Really sorry about the delay in getting the guide up. My girlfriend just left for a 10 month teaching trip in Macau, so I've been spending time with her and handling some other things.
I'll be working on the guide tomorrow night, I have some free time.
I think I'll be doing a couple different things. From browsing around on the newer posts, there have been a few newer methods with regards to rooting and installing CWM/recoveries. I'll list out the exact steps I took (which honestly consisted of slightly more manual methods). In any case, it seems like unlocking the bootloader is the most difficult part at the moment. I will definitely elaborate on that part.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the quick reply! 10 months is a long time - I hope you get the chance to go and visit her in Macau/Hong Kong
Yeah, some of the older methods for gaining root access were pretty time consuming and dangerous. Using the method of installing LGpwn.apk was soooo simple - any novice could do it. Same with getting CWM v6.? installed. Main issue for me is he locked bootloader. I'm looking forward to reading about that Cheers :good:
Finally someone is compiling a complete guide on getting CM on a p769 :good:.
I love my phone from a hardware perspective but don't like the T-Mobile stock rom. I tried getting CM 10.1 (or really any custom rom) onto the phone, but most threads I have read either are incomplete, outdated, and/or simply wrong. I ended up settling with rooting the phone, but I still am dying to get CM 10.1 on the phone.
Can't wait to see your guide . Best of luck!
SomeGuyInOz said:
Thanks for the quick reply! 10 months is a long time - I hope you get the chance to go and visit her in Macau/Hong Kong
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! I'm planning on a trip during the Christmas holidays and at the end of her trip. It'll be tough, but there's so many ways to keep in touch today that we can actually have some fun with it.
I managed to get started on the post. My real life tendencies to blab on and on are starting to show. Heh.
Started talking about the bootloader. It'll be easiest to detail/list/number the process when I sit down with my phone some night and do it. For the time being, I've linked the original instructions I followed so people can get an idea of what's to come.
@queboy89 you really have your hands full with this one. Please include all of the things that can go wrong while flashing with R&D Tool and how to correct them.
Sent from my LG-P769 using xda app-developers app
Related
Hi, Is anyone from Syracuse, I want to upgrade my Verizon XV6800 but would really like someone with experience as a guide.
Thanks
Steve
theres documentation all over these forums bud. endless amounts of info, completely searchable so you dont have to waste any time. read the wikis, read the posts, and if you really need extra help, then PM somebody, but dont make new threads like this its completely unnecessary
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=363431
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=392133
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=388596
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=409655
I'm in the Syracuse area (Morrisville, to be precise), but frankly, I'd wait a bit for the official Verizon update to come out. I suspect that doing that upgrade first will make subsequent ROM changes a lot easier. kflip is right, though, there's plenty of documentation for doing this.
Good guide here as well (that I found in one of the threads on these forums) for Verizon subscribers.
http://ppc.stoleyour.net/xv6800/
I followed these steps and had a painless upgrade to DCD 3.2.3 from stock. The only thing that confused me for a minute was that I needed to unplug the USB connector at one point or it wouldn't boot into bootloader mode.
I did have to call Verizon support and tell them my phone was telling me that is was not authorized. I got a nice friendly tech in South Carolina who walked me through some basic troubleshooting then said that he needed to generate a new A key for me and everything works great.
I bought an eris off craigslist, and this time around it was a bit of a ripoff.
make a long story short, guy cloned it (or so it seems) and I couldn't really get it to work. So now i started reading the
HOW TO: Fully Flash an HTC Droid Eris to Metro PCS found on Howard Forums and copied throughout the area
and it's a great read. I go to metro pcs, have them flash it. They tell me that since it was cloned the ID numbers on it are from some old phone at some point the phone may stop working. (Great...)
Hence I need a phone so I have this until i get another or it dies and I get another-whichever comes first.
Now in reading that great tutorial I have come to part 3, number 6. I can't get it to work properly. So i post on that thread my dilemma (it's on the last page of it), and someone replied that if I am getting "$" prompts and not a "#" prompt it isn't rooted.
oookkkkkkkkk.
So now, i am looking to root it I guess. After reviewing some threads here it seems there are some massive advantages to rooting the phone. and find this nice thread:
Eris Rooting Guide: Updated 18 November 2010, 10:47 am Central U.S. (found on androidforums)
So now that you have some background and I am running out of breath, here's the actual questions (please keep in mind while i learn quick and am "computer techy" i am oblivious to phones):
1) Will rooting the phone mess up my flash, or the fact that it's cloned.
2) Will it wipe out any valuable information?
3) If I root it will i lose connection to my service?
4) is there a way to reset the phone so I have the original ID numbers to it? (guy at metro pcs dealer tried and it wouldn't work no matter what he did and i thought him pretty fluent in his work)
5) most folks have told me to go with the 1 click root, while that sounds awesome, does it truly matter what rom i use? (one with it or something like froyo (not v 38 i guess)
Additionally if someone could recommend some good reads, I would appreciate it. While I realize most people first think to scour the posts posted (and I have) it's difficult to pull tangible information in an efficient manner with such a vague search ( How to root eris), not to mention, I would prefer advice from reputable folks and there are always ppl out there to hurt others (hence i know this is THE place to go )
OK, now Ive run out of breath
Thanks in advance to all
JSammy
PS sorry can't post links - im a noob to this board
1) Will rooting the phone mess up my flash, or the fact that it's cloned.
It shouldn't.
2) Will it wipe out any valuable information?
No.
3) If I root it will i lose connection to my service?
No.
4) is there a way to reset the phone so I have the original ID numbers to it? (guy at metro pcs dealer tried and it wouldn't work no matter what he did and i thought him pretty fluent in his work)
Not sure. Probably not.
5) most folks have told me to go with the 1 click root, while that sounds awesome, does it truly matter what rom i use? (one with it or something like froyo (not v 38 i guess)
You can use whatever ROM you like. I personally recommend Tazz Floyo. It's a matter of preference.
Hello, I was just wondering the best way to root the AT&T Samsung Note SGH-I717. I have looked up many ways but every time I scroll down to the comments I read everyone is having problems. I would just like the best and most proven way to root the phone. I use the phone with straight talk, it is an unlocked att phone, will rooting the phone affect anything with Straight Talk? I am new to rooting so please be detailed and give me links to get everything I need. Thank You so much.
zeus1911 said:
Hello, I was just wondering the best way to root the AT&T Samsung Note SGH-I717. I have looked up many ways but every time I scroll down to the comments I read everyone is having problems. I would just like the best and most proven way to root the phone. I use the phone with straight talk, it is an unlocked att phone, will rooting the phone affect anything with Straight Talk? I am new to rooting so please be detailed and give me links to get everything I need. Thank You so much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so here is the deal, here are 2 methods with very subtle differences. you didn't say what your phone was running now, so here are my suggestions.......
READ, READ, READ
I know you are new here, and I was once too. I went through all of this and was very nervous about the process. (no real reason to be)
I spent a good 2 weeks reading so I would feel confident about what I was doing. I would read through these and figure which is better for you or which you feel more confident in using. they would both work fine depending on your situation or what you phone is running. because these threads are older, you may run into an issue as to where the download files are not active anymore. that is where a recent Google search could come into play. you say you have read the comments for different methods have had negative results. problem is you don't know whether that person followed the directions correctly or whether they were just in a hurry and missed something.
that's why I posted both these threads. compare to what you have read. I have a habit of going to the back of the threads and read forward. this tells me what the most recent problems may have been and if there is a solution. though the files may or may not be active, you can always get the file. its the PROCESS which is correct. compare them.
as I said........... READ, READ, READ
it puts you in the situation to help yourself first
take your time, do as the process suggests. I even rehearsed it several times. due to my lack of experience, I wanted to be as prepared as possible in case something went wrong.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1504218
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1518962
both of these threads are from very reputable members of the community. as all threads will suggest......they are NOT responsible for what you do. make sure you are ready. watch Youtube tutorals, compare processes, have your files loaded and where you have easy access, read and rehearse.
take your time
whatever you need to do to feel confident. if something goes wrong....KNOW what you are going to do next. if you don't know where you went wrong in process or deviated from it, then others cant help.
good luck and I hope I have helped
edit.......
just saw this...this is at the back of Da G 's thread. suggested by AGOATTAMER. he is the man when it comes to having old links to process. this IS the one I used, that I couldn't find.
http://rootgalaxynote.com/galaxy-no...y-note-sgh-i717-icsgingerbreadeasiest-method/
Thanl You Very Much. I am running 4.1.2 jelllybean.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using XDA Free mobile app
Preface:
Ive spent about a week of full-time work into my S7 930v. I FINALLY rooted the damn thing and I FINALLY, after reading tons of tutorials, read on one of them (right here, in fact) the Doomed Verizon Locking Problem.
Ok, so Im not going to be able to install any android ROMs. I followed the tutorials and I have removed/froze bloatware and installed cleanup apps as per the tutorials (Greenify, Amplify, Titanium Backup, etc.)
I froze damn near everything and my phone still works, so good so far. But it still runs slower and from a security standpoint, I still dont really trust it.
Sorry, I know Im beating a dead horse here.
Down to Business:
I gave up trying to face the impossible. But today, with renewed vigor, I have questions. In an effort not to waste my time, I thought that one of you has probably already tried my next steps or heard of someone who has.
1. Is it also not possible to install linux (Ubuntu?) on my 930v?
2. I heard somewhere that you can call Verizon and have them unlock your phone. I have done so. They gave me the run-around. Switched me to Samsung who told me to call Verizon. Now Im not new to this. Im angry and Ive got too much time on my hands. Im not afraid to call over and over until I get answers. But I thought I would ask you all first.
There seems to be two different versions of what they understand as "unlocked". There is provider unlocked and there is OS/ROM unlocked. So, if I keep harassing them, are they going to ROM unlock my phone? I found this on their website:
verizon..../about/consumer-safety/device-unlocking-policy/
Is my phone really a piece of trash now?? Say it aint so!
[EDIT] I just called Verizon again and explained very thoroughly, that Verizon locks software with a private key and that I wish to reinstall Android as a base without their software.
Tech support tells me that they are not given that information from Corporate.
This is probably the most desperate post i've made on XDA. I'm not entirely sure if I'm following the forum rules, so I'm sorry if this violates any.
I've got an Optimus L9, model P769BKGO, manufactured March 22nd, 2013. My current understanding is if I have an L9 that was manufactured after June of the same year, the bootloader is encrypted, preventing me from unlocking it. I did work on the phone a while back, and found that it's running the P760's V10b Europe firmware. The bootloader appears to be set up properly, the screen is inverted and "flipped" horizontally as it's supposed to be according to all the tutorials i could find. There's only one problem I'm coming across.
The next step I can find is to flash the radio and connect to mobile data, leaving it connected for 30 minutes or more. I've tried to flash the radio, and it hasn't fixed the modem issues that comes with flashing the firmware to V10b EO. I have an active SIM in it as i'm supposed to, but I can't flash it to another firmware to restart the process because if I do, I have no working links for any of the tools/firmwares I need. They all either pull up a 404 or just don't exist, for example the "All in One" MEGA links in the more popular bootloader unlocking threads.
The Optimus L9 forum has been noticably dead for a while now, but i don't see any better place to seek help. Hopefully someone here can lend me a hand in finding the firmware versions I need to get this done.
If I have learned anything from xda-developers since 2004 when I got my first Windows Mobile smartphone: yes. it IS possible. And MORESO., where there is a will, there is a way.
That said, I've got a couple LG-P769's I'd like to root, so if I dig anything up that works, I'll let you know. Otherwise, my skills as a developer do not extend to reverse engineering (especially encrypted(!)) bootloaders. Creating a custom ROM is more up my alley, and something I may do if we find it is necessary
Toaster42 said:
If I have learned anything from xda-developers since 2004 when I got my first Windows Mobile smartphone: yes. it IS possible. And MORESO., where there is a will, there is a way.
That said, I've got a couple LG-P769's I'd like to root, so if I dig anything up that works, I'll let you know. Otherwise, my skills as a developer do not extend to reverse engineering (especially encrypted(!)) bootloaders. Creating a custom ROM is more up my alley, and something I may do if we find it is necessary
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I saw this sooner, but I think I can help you out with rooting them. There's something called LGPwn that you might find useful. If it works for you, it'll work well. There's also this one recovery installer that I use, although it's not very up to date... nonetheless, it works too. If I have any custom roms laying around that have dead links, I'll do my best to supply them just in case (since devhost isn't a thing anymore, almost all links here are dead).
Best of luck
Mrhayman12 said:
I wish I saw this sooner, but I think I can help you out with rooting them. There's something called LGPwn that you might find useful. If it works for you, it'll work well. There's also this one recovery installer that I use, although it's not very up to date... nonetheless, it works too. If I have any custom roms laying around that have dead links, I'll do my best to supply them just in case (since devhost isn't a thing anymore, almost all links here are dead).
Best of luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
While I don't want to jack this thread, I wanted to comment that LGPwn worked well for me and thanks for the links. I am a bit new to all of this, and I couldn't seem to find any ROMS that would work with the old phone newer than andriod 5.1 - thus also taking the chance here to ask given your already very neat help, if, unlike what I believe - I can use ROMS not made for the phone?
TheDractBar said:
While I don't want to jack this thread, I wanted to comment that LGPwn worked well for me and thanks for the links. I am a bit new to all of this, and I couldn't seem to find any ROMS that would work with the old phone newer than andriod 5.1 - thus also taking the chance here to ask given your already very neat help, if, unlike what I believe - I can use ROMS not made for the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm suuuuper late on replying to this (I don't mind the bump though), you can use ROMs developed for the p760 as well, although I can't say I'm on familiar territory anymore. My L9 is in the drawer now, since I can't find a way to properly unlock the bootloader. They say there's supposed to be special software available, but that software has since been wiped off the net.
Regardless, I hope that helps.