[Q] Google Play Edition MK2 - Verizon Samsung Galaxy S 4

Hi,
I have a Verizon Samsung Galaxy s4 with build number JSS15J.I545VRUEMK2, and I recently rooted it so I could run the Google Play Edition Rom. From various threads and guides I knew that I needed to use SafeStrap because you can't use CWM recovery on an MK2 device. After a couple of attempts installing the GPE Rom, I found out that the GPE roms i could find only work with SafeStrap and an ME7 device. Furthermore, I found out that the only ROM that works with and MK2 device is Hyperdrive 11. I was wondering if there is any way around this or, alternatively, if there are any plans to fix this.
Thanks in advance.

walkerna22 said:
Hi,
I have a Verizon Samsung Galaxy s4 with build number JSS15J.I545VRUEMK2, and I recently rooted it so I could run the Google Play Edition Rom. From various threads and guides I knew that I needed to use SafeStrap because you can't use CWM recovery on an MK2 device. After a couple of attempts installing the GPE Rom, I found out that the GPE roms i could find only work with SafeStrap and an ME7 device. Furthermore, I found out that the only ROM that works with and MK2 device is Hyperdrive 11. I was wondering if there is any way around this or, alternatively, if there are any plans to fix this.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all. .the only way around is to hope our devs who pretty much do the work on their spare time...look at what can be done...Second their nothing broken that needs a fix.
If you want ability to load different roms buy the dev phone.
safestrap enabled, Hyperdrive driven

decaturbob said:
First of all. .the only way around is to hope our devs who pretty much do the work on their spare time...look at what can be done...Second their nothing broken that needs a fix.
If you want ability to load different roms buy the dev phone.
safestrap enabled, Hyperdrive driven
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply,
Just for clarification, are you saying that if I load hyperdrive, then I'll be able to load the GPE rom with safestrap?
Thanks

walkerna22 said:
Thanks for the reply,
Just for clarification, are you saying that if I load hyperdrive, then I'll be able to load the GPE rom with safestrap?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can't run gpe..
safestrap enabled, Hyperdrive driven

Would this work?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2343355

dogginsteed said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2343355
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need a custom recovery to load any ROM. Problem with the build you are running is you cannot install a custom recovery because the bootloader is locked down tighter than Fort Knox. Devs are working on a solution and hopefully they will succeed. Don't hold your breath though as it may take a long while.
Until then, you can root, uninstall and de-crapify the bloatware and crapware from the phone. Change the launcher to GEL and get something closer to a GPE phone. Done all this to my S4 and it runs much more smoothly and gives me excellent battery service.

Related

Unlocked bootloader for ME7?

I wanted to know if everyone has given up on unlocking the bootloader for ME7. I'm so tired of SafeStrap.
Also is there an UPDATED list of compatible SafeStrap ROMs? The list I've been using is old as hell.
Please help. I want to use anything other than the Google Edition ROM v6. It's quite old.
Thanks in advance.
southpaw5271 said:
I wanted to know if everyone has given up on unlocking the bootloader for ME7. I'm so tired of SafeStrap.
Also is there an UPDATED list of compatible SafeStrap ROMs? The list I've been using is old as hell.
Please help. I want to use anything other than the Google Edition ROM v6. It's quite old.
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand your frustration, i am in the same boat. Can't wait for me7 bootloader unlock if that will ever come. But I would try hyperdrive Rom, seems like that's the best one around except for bluetooth media control that doesn't work. But other than that SafeStrap and hyperdrive is a decent combo...considering...
stamina11 said:
I understand your frustration, i am in the same boat. Can't wait for me7 bootloader unlock if that will ever come. But I would try hyperdrive Rom, seems like that's the best one around except for bluetooth media control that doesn't work. But other than that SafeStrap and hyperdrive is a decent combo...considering...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't find a good mirror for the latest compatible Hyperdrive. Can you either send me a link, upload yours to a site like mediafire, or send me a Google Drive link?

[Q] Google Edition ROM on GS4 MJ7?

I saw someone say it was possible and I rooted mine just to do that (before knowing that mj7 custom recovery was impossible). I just want to put google edition on my S4. If anyone knows if what that person said is correct could you please send me a link to the info I need to make it happen.
I heard that the method was somehow related to using odin to install the stock image to the mj7 s4 as google edition is an official edition which would be great if that were true.
Jerome the Just said:
I saw someone say it was possible and I rooted mine just to do that (before knowing that mj7 custom recovery was impossible). I just want to put google edition on my S4. If anyone knows if what that person said is correct could you please send me a link to the info I need to make it happen.
I heard that the method was somehow related to using odin to install the stock image to the mj7 s4 as google edition is an official edition which would be great if that were true.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not possible to put any GE Rom on a S4 with MJ7.
The boot loader is locked and you will brick your phone.
Don't attempt.
Jerome the Just said:
I saw someone say it was possible and I rooted mine just to do that (before knowing that mj7 custom recovery was impossible). I just want to put google edition on my S4. If anyone knows if what that person said is correct could you please send me a link to the info I need to make it happen.
I heard that the method was somehow related to using odin to install the stock image to the mj7 s4 as google edition is an official edition which would be great if that were true.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no ability to install any custom ROM as MJ7 bootloader is pretty much lockdown for that, Odin has nothing to do with it. Now, Hashcode is working on safestrap port for MJ7 and MDK2 base users but that is no guarantee that a GE based rom will work when it is done. Some restrictions on kernel base and safestrap you see. You can read thread on ROMs that worked with safestrap and see what was said there for Google Edition Rom
decaturbob said:
no ability to install any custom ROM as MJ7 bootloader is pretty much lockdown for that, Odin has nothing to do with it. Now, Hashcode is working on safestrap port for MJ7 and MDK2 base users but that is no guarantee that a GE based rom will work when it is done. Some restrictions on kernel base and safestrap you see. You can read thread on ROMs that worked with safestrap and see what was said there for Google Edition Rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do recall that there were two Google Edition ROMs that were reported to work on Safestrap, actually. Chances are they were still using the stock kernel though, so since A.) The OP is probably on a newer kernel than those, and B.) The newest "GE" ROMs on 4.3 use an AOSP kernel, unfortunately we're gonna have to wait juuuust a bit longer.
I know how you feel. TouchWiz has to go.
But hey, on the bright side, we can at least have HyperDrive RLS11 on our MJ7 phones for the time being!

newb trying to install ROMS

Hey guys,
I'm sorry if this question has already been asked, I currently have a verizon Gs4 that is running the new MK2 update. I have been looking around at ROMS online and I would like to install a kit kat rom onto my phone. My question is after rooting am I limited to what type of recovery and roms i can use? My co worker has a GS4 for sprint and uses PHILZ custom recovery.
Can anybody help me with some explanation? I am trying to figure out if it is worth rooting the phone. I also want to make sure I have all my ducks lined up before plunging into the process.
Thank you,
kendeezy said:
Hey guys,
I'm sorry if this question has already been asked, I currently have a verizon Gs4 that is running the new MK2 update. I have been looking around at ROMS online and I would like to install a kit kat rom onto my phone. My question is after rooting am I limited to what type of recovery and roms i can use? My co worker has a GS4 for sprint and uses PHILZ custom recovery.
Can anybody help me with some explanation? I am trying to figure out if it is worth rooting the phone. I also want to make sure I have all my ducks lined up before plunging into the process.
Thank you,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No custom recovery exists for mk2...hashcode is working on safestrap recovery but it is buggy at best right now and only works for touchwiz ROMs...others are working tirelessly toward unlock or workaround...mk2 is very new...give it time and read up on mk2...more will come
You can't flash a custom rom or recovery if your on the MK2 update. You can only root MK2. The devs are working hard to make that possible for us that are on the MK2 update.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
It is absolutely worth rooting, but being on MK2 your recovery options are limited to Safe strap. Philztouch will only work on the original MDK firmware. I haven't used Safe strap since the Bionic but Hashcode and his work are amazing. Head over to his blog and his thread for more info. If you are just looking to theme your phone you can stay stock rooted and use Xposed with Wanam settings. All of this info is right here on XDA and most likely on the first page of their respective forums. My first recommendation is to read a lot first. Second, before you start the process have all emergency restore files downloaded and ready to go with your device recognized by your computer. (Always have Odin, your current Factory Firmware, and USB drivers ready)
You're on MK2....you can't install a custom ROM. This topic has been discussed many times.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
kendeezy said:
Hey guys,
I'm sorry if this question has already been asked, I currently have a verizon Gs4 that is running the new MK2 update. I have been looking around at ROMS online and I would like to install a kit kat rom onto my phone. My question is after rooting am I limited to what type of recovery and roms i can use? My co worker has a GS4 for sprint and uses PHILZ custom recovery.
Can anybody help me with some explanation? I am trying to figure out if it is worth rooting the phone. I also want to make sure I have all my ducks lined up before plunging into the process.
Thank you,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to be rude, but this has been answered 1,000,000 times, you couldn't have searched or even read a few posts down. The only version of the S4 that can install a custom recovery is MDK. You can root, and Hashcode just released a version of safestrap that works with MJ7, but this just happened. As far as I am aware, only Hyperdrive will work on a phone on MJ7 or MK2.

[Q] Just got a new S 4, updated to NK1. Should I downgrade?

Pretty much as the title says.
I just signed up with Verizon last Thursday. Updated on first boot to NK1. Then went and did the instructions for rooting NK1 and adding Safestrap. Now I am seeing that it seems I cannot do anything with this phone? Should I downgrade to be able to install CM11/12 or other ROMs? Is this even possible?
Thanks for the help.
thchipmunk said:
Pretty much as the title says.
I just signed up with Verizon last Thursday. Updated on first boot to NK1. Then went and did the instructions for rooting NK1 and adding Safestrap. Now I am seeing that it seems I cannot do anything with this phone? Should I downgrade to be able to install CM11/12 or other ROMs? Is this even possible?
Thanks for the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to break it to you but CM isn't possible for you. Basically, safestrap is your only option. If you want CM, you will need to by a used mdk s4.
Raymondlikesroot said:
Sorry to break it to you but CM isn't possible for you. Basically, safestrap is your only option. If you want CM, you will need to by a used mdk s4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that's what I gathered. I do have safestrap installed and installed the official CM11 nightly, as well as another rom but neither one really work. Should it?
As the post that you quoted said, cm isn't possible w/ out a phone that has a mdk bootloader, opposed to nk1, nc5, etc
thchipmunk said:
Yeah, that's what I gathered. I do have safestrap installed and installed the official CM11 nightly, as well as another rom but neither one really work. Should it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only touchwiz based roms, and a few aosp roms, work with safestrap. tldr: no.

[Q] Installing CyanogenMod on VRUFNK1

I'm helping my friend install CyanogenMod 12 on his S4 (jfltevzw). We've rooted it and we're currently doing a full backup through Safestrap in case anything happens. Once that's finished, I'm unsure as to what we should do. CyanogenMod's wiki has installation instructions for the Verizon S4, but it says in big bold letters to not attempt this if on a ROM newer than I545VRUAMDK. He's on the latest version that Samsung/Verizon have pushed out, which is I545VRUFNK1. Is there an alternate way to install CyanogenMod on top of the newer stock ROM, or is it not possible?
vaindil said:
I'm helping my friend install CyanogenMod 12 on his S4 (jfltevzw). We've rooted it and we're currently doing a full backup through Safestrap in case anything happens. Once that's finished, I'm unsure as to what we should do. CyanogenMod's wiki has installation instructions for the Verizon S4, but it says in big bold letters to not attempt this if on a ROM newer than I545VRUAMDK. He's on the latest version that Samsung/Verizon have pushed out, which is I545VRUFNK1. Is there an alternate way to install CyanogenMod on top of the newer stock ROM, or is it not possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
its not possible. ONLY mdk builds will work.
Raymondlikesroot said:
its not possible. ONLY mdk builds will work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dang, so there's absolutely nothing whatsoever that can be done? The page says you can't downgrade, but is anything at all possible now that he's beyond the MDK build? He really wants to make the switch and is fine with doing a complete wipe or whatever is necessary.
EDIT: I've been trying to read up on the VZW S4 and why this isn't possible, but I don't quite get it. Reading other threads it seems like the reason is because the bootloader is locked, but that can't be the case if he was able to install Safestrap. I'm coming from a Nexus 5 where everything is incredibly simple, so I apologize for my ignorance. (I don't mean to say you're wrong or anything as I have no idea myself, I just don't understand why it doesn't work on newer ROMs.)
vaindil said:
Dang, so there's absolutely nothing whatsoever that can be done? The page says you can't downgrade, but is anything at all possible now that he's beyond the MDK build? He really wants to make the switch and is fine with doing a complete wipe or whatever is necessary.
EDIT: I've been trying to read up on the VZW S4 and why this isn't possible, but I don't quite get it. Reading other threads it seems like the reason is because the bootloader is locked, but that can't be the case if he was able to install Safestrap. I'm coming from a Nexus 5 where everything is incredibly simple, so I apologize for my ignorance. (I don't mean to say you're wrong or anything as I have no idea myself, I just don't understand why it doesn't work on newer ROMs.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason we use Safestrap as opposed to twrp is because the bootloader is locked.
Surge1223 said:
The reason we use Safestrap as opposed to twrp is because the bootloader is locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, okay. Really unfortunate that this isn't possible now. So he's just stuck with TouchWiz and can't do anything about it?
vaindil said:
Oh, okay. Really unfortunate that this isn't possible now. So he's just stuck with TouchWiz and can't do anything about it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep
Sent from my my Lollipopped S4
vaindil said:
Oh, okay. Really unfortunate that this isn't possible now. So he's just stuck with TouchWiz and can't do anything about it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can install hyperdrive rom
its not lolipop but its worlds better then stock ...
also there is a chance of getting the 5.01 GPE edition rom running when Samsung releases the lolipop update for the vz s4
that would at least give us a working lolipop kernel to use with the gpe rombase
and hey you never know there could be a exploite in the lolipop rom/kernel that lets us get kexec working
Basically safestrap loads after the kernel but early enough to replace point to a different root for the system. So we can load what ever system we want... But are stuck with the kernel the phone booted. If the system is based on the stock kernel this is fine... But when it starts making calls to custom kernel stuff you will have trouble.
So Cyanogenmod only provides the GUI? I've installed CM on two B&N tablets and I've been asked to root a new Verizon Samsung Galaxy S4. I've assumed that, because it's new, it will have I545VRUFNK1 4.4.2. I rooted my VSG s3 years ago to 4.3 and there was no going back on that one. It looks like it's the same with VSG s4. So, if CM provides only the GUI, then a rooted VSG s4 can still access Google Apps? What is the concern with with TW based ROMs? Is it the recovery/backup feature or only being stuck with the VSG s4 GUI?
Raymondlikesroot said:
its not possible. ONLY mdk builds will work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This explains why I bricked my phone when I tried to flash CM12...
ryant35 said:
This explains why I bricked my phone when I tried to flash CM12...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
haha yeah, that could maybe potentially probably be the issue. Just maybe.
Couldn't you ODIN back to an older baseband version and then try to flash CM12?
Lockett said:
Couldn't you ODIN back to an older baseband version and then try to flash CM12?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, in order to get CM, you'll need to be on MDK. Samsung prevents downgrading.
btw. the baseband version doesn't matter much. Its the bootloader version that is the toughie.
Boo! I just picked up my S4 yesterday after a 5 month run of using Windows Phone so I'm trying to figure this phone out. I'm on NK1 and trying to figure out how to root now.
vaindil where did you find a VRUFNK1 compatible version of Safestrip?

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