Hi people. This is my 3rd android device. Two samsung products, and now the Z ultra.
So I have no idea what people are talking about... I'm used to ODIN... so is flashtool a similar piece of software?
My xperia Z hasn't arrived yet, Im just trying to get my head around sony and the way their devices are run..
So.. questions...
1. Backup your TA partition (I read that this has important info that I don't want to loose... Do i do this with flashtool? Do i also reflash this partition at a later date?)
2. Unlock your bootloader (Why are some people not unlocking bootloader... Do I understand correctly that some features will stop working... like x-reality?? If so, can't they just be reactivated with a custom ROM?)
3. I see there is a recovery for locked bootloaders... (can you still flash kernel's custom ROM's zips using CWM with a locked bootloader?)
Ive spent 3 days looking on the threads here, but I think because of my previous devices I have a preconceived idea of what i should be doing.. I'm confused.
hamdogg said:
Hi people. This is my 3rd android device. Two samsung products, and now the Z ultra.
So I have no idea what people are talking about... I'm used to ODIN... so is flashtool a similar piece of software???
My xperia Z hasn't arrived yet, Im just trying to get my head around sony and the way their devices are run..
So.. questions...
1. Backup your TA partition (I read that this has important info that I don't want to loose... Do i do this with flashtool?? Do i also reflash this partition at a later date?)
2. Unlock your bootloader (Why are some people not unlocking bootloader... Do I understand correctly that some features will stop working... like x-reality?? If so, can't they just be reactivated with a custom ROM?)
3. I see there is a recovery for locked bootloaders... (can you still flash kernel's custom ROM's zips using CWM with a locked bootloader?)
Ive spent 3 days looking on the threads here, but I think because of my previous devices I have a preconceived idea of what i should be doing.. I'm confused.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh thanks god!! I have been waiting for someone to ask... I didn't want to get labeled as a noob! :b
greggCc said:
Oh thanks god!! I have been waiting for someone to ask... I didn't want to get labeled as a noob! :b
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now everyone knows you're a n00b!
First of all, the minus of unlocking bootloader is losing your DRM keys. To do this, sony has provided us an official way through their website (just google it). Or you can do this via flashtool too. After unlocking, you will lose xreality engine and won't get FW update from sony anymore through official means (pcc or ota, but you can always flash). Some says trackID will be lost, too, but hey, who use it anyway?
The plus is, you entered godmode for flashing anything into your phone.
Unlocked bootloader can be relocked through flashtool, but relocked is not the same as locked, because xreality is still lost, cmiiw. To restore to original locked state, use backupTA (search thread in xda) BEFORE unlocking bootloader. And backupTA needs root, so we need root w/o unlock bootloader first (already plenty in other threads).
And yeah, what a maze this is.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Now everyone knows you're a n00b!
First of all, the minus of unlocking bootloader is losing your DRM keys. To do this, sony has provided us an official way through their website (just google it). Or you can do this via flashtool too. After unlocking, you will lose xreality engine and won't get FW update from sony anymore through official means (pcc or ota, but you can always flash). Some says trackID will be lost, too, but hey, who use it anyway?
The plus is, you entered godmode for flashing anything into your phone.
Unlocked bootloader can be relocked through flashtool, but relocked is not the same as locked, because xreality is still lost, cmiiw. To restore to original locked state, use backupTA (search thread in xda) BEFORE unlocking bootloader. And backupTA needs root, so we need root w/o unlock bootloader first (already plenty in other threads).
And yeah, what a maze this is.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thanks, that confirmed what i thought about bootloader..
Can you still flash VIA CWM with a locked bootloader?
otherwise as i understand it...
1) root device
2) backup TA parition
3) unlock bootloader
4) flash ROM/kernel/etc
5) reflash TA partition.
done... custom ROM with x-reality support?
hamdogg said:
Ok thanks, that confirmed what i thought about bootloader..
Can you still flash VIA CWM with a locked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Limited options. Most ROMs required unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Limited options. Most ROMs required unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so there will be some ROM's that don't require an unlocked bootloader??
Why are not all ROM's like this, then x-reality / track ID's would not be a problem...
hamdogg said:
so there will be some ROM's that don't require an unlocked bootloader??
Why are not all ROM's like this, then x-reality / track ID's would not be a problem...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it's harder to make, apparently. Currently even custom recovery for locked bootloader is not finished yet. Check the development section. And flashing things that normally isn't allowed on locked does have limitations, check in other xperia devices threads.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Well it's harder to make, apparently. Currently even custom recovery for locked bootloader is not finished yet. Check the development section. And flashing things that normally isn't allowed on locked does have limitations, check in other xperia devices threads.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok... say I have flashed a ROM... i can then flash the TA partition and then I have that ROM with x-reality working?
hamdogg said:
ok... say I have flashed a ROM... i can then flash the TA partition and then I have that ROM with x-reality working?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually on firmware .510 with unlocked bootloader and I still have Xreality. Making your Ta backup is mainly to be able to restore your device in case of softbrick or restore your phone to stock.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
bASKOU said:
Actually on firmware .510 with unlocked bootloader and I still have Xreality. Making your Ta backup is mainly to be able to restore your device in case of softbrick or restore your phone to stock.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read that members running 510 have the reality box to check, but most say it doesn't make a difference, and that its not working in the album
hamdogg said:
I read that members running 510 have the reality box to check, but most say it doesn't make a difference, and that its not working in the album
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right i don't see difference on album. But I see it on videos.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
I am looking at getting the phone too. From what I understand is when your bootloader is locked, it will only load signed boot partitions. So any modification to the boot partition outside of the official stock kernel will not boot when locked. So installing any custom kernel (OC/UV/etc) with stock rom needs unlocked bootloader, or installing CM (which has it's own kernel anyway). So best is getting custom roms (only modified system) with stock kernel.
Also like already said, unlocked bootloader means no updates from Sony. I would backup TA at all costs anyway.
I doubt stock kernel supports kexec, but I guess you can hack the system init process to load different ramdisks. Which is why I guess they are having trouble with locked bootloaders with recovery ramdisks in the dev forum.
I am waiting for the C6806. Here are my plans:
1. Root using vroot (hope it doesn't infect TA with something ;o)
2. Backup TA Partition
3. Unlock
4. Deal with loss of DRM
5. Install whatever ROM/kernel for daily usage
6. (maybe make official TWRP)
7. Get official updates by restoring TA partition, stock kernel if necessary
or...
1. Root using vroot
2. Backup TA Paritition
3. Stick with stock kernel
4. Help with getting locked 2nd ramdisk working with stock init
5. Is the stock ROM awesome enough? (Not sure since we don't have 4.3 )
Also hoping info comes out about ATT bootloader soon on Note 3.
LTE phone is out by 9/25 I am thinking with US warranty support. (C6806)
bigbiff said:
I am looking at getting the phone too. From what I understand is when your bootloader is locked, it will only load signed boot partitions. So any modification to the boot partition outside of the official stock kernel will not boot when locked. So installing any custom kernel (OC/UV/etc) with stock rom needs unlocked bootloader, or installing CM (which has it's own kernel anyway). So best is getting custom roms (only modified system) with stock kernel.
Also like already said, unlocked bootloader means no updates from Sony. I would backup TA at all costs anyway.
I doubt stock kernel supports kexec, but I guess you can hack the system init process to load different ramdisks. Which is why I guess they are having trouble with locked bootloaders with recovery ramdisks in the dev forum.
I am waiting for the C6806. Here are my plans:
1. Root using vroot (hope it doesn't infect TA with something ;o)
2. Backup TA Partition
3. Unlock
4. Deal with loss of DRM
5. Install whatever ROM/kernel for daily usage
6. (maybe make official TWRP)
7. Get official updates by restoring TA partition, stock kernel if necessary
or...
1. Root using vroot
2. Backup TA Paritition
3. Stick with stock kernel
4. Help with getting locked 2nd ramdisk working with stock init
5. Is the stock ROM awesome enough? (Not sure since we don't have 4.3 )
Also hoping info comes out about ATT bootloader soon on Note 3.
LTE phone is out by 9/25 I am thinking with US warranty support. (C6806)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your thoughts biff...
I was also going to wait for the LTE version, however only two cities have it in my country, and I rarely travel to them, and the added price made be think again...
Thanks to all for their contributions on this thread especially op for having the balls to expose his new noob levels I'm coming from Samsung note and this has helped put things in perspective.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
SpyderTracks said:
Thanks to all for their contributions on this thread especially op for having the balls to expose his new noob levels I'm coming from Samsung note and this has helped put things in perspective.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol nobody should be ashamed to be a noob. We are all noobs to some extend, we learn and improve. I am a big noob on Sony devices as well and a huge noob when it come to development hahahhaa
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
I've just ordered mine, should be delivered day after tomorrow. Wait is almost over!
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SpyderTracks said:
I've just ordered mine, should be delivered day after tomorrow. Wait is almost over!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
haha.. no problem!
I know samsung devices very well, and am no noob there.. But sony... yes, I know basically nothing. We all have to start somewhere.. :silly:
hamdogg said:
haha.. no problem!
I know samsung devices very well, and am no noob there.. But sony... yes, I know basically nothing. We all have to start somewhere.. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jeez, this is a nice phone!
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium HD app
SpyderTracks said:
Jeez, this is a nice phone!
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my wait is nearly over... customs called... gotta pay import duty (ARSE!!!)
but will have it Monday... Boom!!
Is anyone having an issue w unlocked gpe edition and screen cast? Was working then unlocked my boot loader and it stopped. Can't tell if it coincidence or not. I know that rooting Sammy devices can affect screen mirroring. Any suggestions would be welcome.
Thank you
Sent from my C6806_GPe using xda app-developers app
Did you ever find a way to fix this? I'm in the same boat. running GPe 4.4.4 unlocked bootloader
I have the same problem with an unlocked 4.4.4 v.108
Same problem here.
Your DRM keys are gone due to the unlocking. That is why you cannot use this. Unless you made a backup before unlocking the bootloader, you are out of luck...
You want me to put the hammer down?
solved!!!
egzthunder1 said:
Your DRM keys are gone due to the unlocking. That is why you cannot use this. Unless you made a backup before unlocking the bootloader, you are out of luck...
You want me to put the hammer down?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you are right egzthunder!!! thanks !!!
i restored the TA partition... then my ultra was softbriked...
blinking in red when plugged but i entered flash mode and flashed last 108 ftf
now my ultra works perfect with screencast and TV sideview
my 50" bravia is happy with his ultra brother
sorry 4 my poor english
reigbord said:
you are right egzthunder!!! thanks !!!
i restored the TA partition... then my ultra was softbriked...
blinking in red when plugged but i entered flash mode and flashed last 108 ftf
now my ultra works perfect with screencast and TV sideview
my 50" bravia is happy with his ultra brother
sorry 4 my poor english
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
please note: If you are a GPe user Do Not Flash a FTF - you WILL BRICK the GPe
i'm on EE in uk and they tend to take while with latest FW. If i root can i upgrade to a custom or overseas 4.4.4 and use remote play?
if i can't i'm going to have to suffer xfactor and downton abbey tonight so it's really urgent!
Yes, assume you are on 4.4.2. But you should know a few things first. Firstly you don't need to root to unstall a new version, just flash an ftf through flashtool. Don't Unlock your bootloader as report indicator remote play won't work without drm keys. If you do want root, follow these steps:
1. Root phone with TowelRoot or similar,
2. Install recovery for locked bootloader,
3. Install prerooted 4.4.4 zip through recovery.
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
thanks!
Maybe i'll avoid downton after all!
Good decision. Everyone should avoid that show.
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
dantera said:
Maybe i'll avoid downton after all!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes by all means avoid Downton Abbey. Flipping show just glorifies the aristocracy. There were flipping bas#### who treated everyone else like scum!
X factor isn't much better either. I'd avoid that too!
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
sadly the only problem i face is i can't root the Z2 cause of the bootloader lock. there are too many mods i want to try but i don't want to unlock the BL. "don't want to lose camera quality nor the noise cancellation".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
really guys ? if you unlock the loader you will lose the x-reality and other stuff ?
Not wholy true
X-Reality, SuperVivid, Bionz and some Xperia apps such as playstation remote play are broken
Camera quality is like 5% worse hence why i dont care
+ you can root with a locked bootloader anyway
The problem is not connected to WiFi
Hi
I opened the boot loader on my phone with build number 167
After opening the boot loader can not connect to my WiFi
What should I do
Maybe you can flash stock rom and locked bt with emma program.
Im not sure, check on google and sony site.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
answer
PRO>KOMP.< said:
Maybe you can flash stock rom and locked bt with emma program.
Im not sure, check on google and sony site.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much, I've tried this method
But did not result
When I want to connect up to his authentication was extremely weak signal
Backing up your TA is one way of not losing them I thought.
xPlayGunZ said:
Backing up your TA is one way of not losing them I thought.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its the only way i know of that works
Hi guys, I unlocked my BL, then I enabled my Xperia app. Now I can no more run fastboot command (not allowed). Can you help me please? Is there any way to fix it? Or where can I repair my tablet? I live in Italy, Sony said won't support me in any way
Sent from my SGP712 using Tapatalk
farfetch said:
Hi guys, I unlocked my BL, then I enabled my Xperia app. Now I can no more run fastboot command (not allowed). Can you help me please? Is there any way to fix it? Or where can I repair my tablet? I live in Italy, Sony said won't support me in any way
Sent from my SGP712 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's no way to fix, you have to sell it as bricked device...
AndroPlus said:
There's no way to fix, you have to sell it as bricked device...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally no way to repair it?
Good move Sony...
Edit: tablet runs regularly, I can update with companion app and everything... Just fastboot looks broken.
Sent from my E5823 using Tapatalk
farfetch said:
Totally no way to repair it?
Good move Sony...
Sent from my E5823 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.
Sony warns this problem in bootloader unlocking page, so read carefully before trying.
(they should change it to big red text?)
Unlocking bootloader is risky thing if you don't read warning.
Also security and encryption features often don't work on unlocked bootloader, so don't expect them to work.
AndroPlus said:
Yes.
Sony warns this problem in bootloader unlocking page, so read carefully before trying.
(they should change it to big red text?[emoji14])
Unlocking bootloader is risky thing if you don't read warning.
Also security and encryption features often don't work on unlocked bootloader, so don't expect them to work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I only want to get root
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farfetch said:
I only want to get root
Sent from my E5823 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Be patient, in that case...
AndroPlus said:
Yes.
Sony warns this problem in bootloader unlocking page, so read carefully before trying.
(they should change it to big red text?[emoji14])
Unlocking bootloader is risky thing if you don't read warning.
Also security and encryption features often don't work on unlocked bootloader, so don't expect them to work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed Sony Mobile Flashtool give same error on my full working Z5c (ERROR - Can't read a byte value), so that should be a Flashtool issue... Maybe fixing that, I could flash and unbrick my Z4 tablet (?)
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