[Q] To unlock or not - Xperia Tablet Z Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

So I foolishly didn't check here when the new update showed up and of course lost my root access so I'm trying to decide if I should unlock the bootloader and reestablish root that way. It's more a pita not having root, the tablet is certainly functional and works well. Are there any disadvantages to unlocking the bootloader on the xperia? I've been doing this on my phones forever but when I unlocked the bootloader on my last table (TF201) I lost the ability to play drm content which sucked so thought I'd now ask, better late kind of thing.

You can re establish root just flash older ftf and Start over its easy. You can unlock but not alot of custom roms and stock seems to run pretty good for me if you do unlock make sure to.backup ta for.Bravia engine and drm so if you go back to stock you can restore ta
Personally I'm on stock and it.runs great
Sent from my C6506 using Tapatalk

Related

Quick question re: root/ta/bl etc on .290

I'll try and keep this short and to the point.
Currently running stock .290 firmware and wanting to root it, preferably without flashing a pre-rooted firmware, and without losing DRM keys.
Now if i want to root it according to this thread, i will need to unlock the Bootloader first:
"You'll have to unlock the bootloader if you want to root the .290 firmware (Android 4.3)."
and then root it via this, before i can run TA Backup to backup my DRM keys
What I'm confused about though, is that once the Bootloader is unlocked I lose my DRM Keys (as per this thread, and many other comments)
"The TA partition contains all your DRM keys for the Bravia/X-Reality Engine.
The first time you mess with your phone by unlocking the bootloader, these DRM keys will be deleted!"
The general consensus with regards to the proper order is:
1. Root
2. TA backup
3. Unlock bootloader
However for .290 it seems to be:
1. Unlock bootloader
2. Root
3. TA backup (if there is even anything left to backup?)
I guess what I'm wondering is if there is anyway to root .290 directly without first unlocking the Bootloader (and thus losing my DRM Keys), and without flashing pre-rooted firmware?
Or do i have this completely wrong, and by unlocking my Bootloader first, I won't lose my DRM Keys (contrary to what the linked thread above says)?
Thanks!
djyoshii said:
I'll try and keep this short and to the point.
Currently running stock .290 firmware and wanting to root it, preferably without flashing a pre-rooted firmware, and without losing DRM keys.
Now if i want to root it according to this thread, i will need to unlock the Bootloader first:
"You'll have to unlock the bootloader if you want to root the .290 firmware (Android 4.3)."
and then root it via this, before i can run TA Backup to backup my DRM keys
What I'm confused about though, is that once the Bootloader is unlocked I lose my DRM Keys (as per this thread, and many other comments)
"The TA partition contains all your DRM keys for the Bravia/X-Reality Engine.
The first time you mess with your phone by unlocking the bootloader, these DRM keys will be deleted!"
The general consensus with regards to the proper order is:
1. Root
2. TA backup
3. Unlock bootloader
However for .290 it seems to be:
1. Unlock bootloader
2. Root
3. TA backup (if there is even anything left to backup?)
I guess what I'm wondering is if there is anyway to root .290 directly without first unlocking the Bootloader (and thus losing my DRM Keys), and without flashing pre-rooted firmware?
Or do i have this completely wrong, and by unlocking my Bootloader first, I won't lose my DRM Keys (contrary to what the linked thread above says)?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No.
You need to downgrade to 532 root, backup ta, unlock bootloader then update.
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
SpyderTracks said:
No.
You need to downgrade to 532 root, backup ta, unlock bootloader then update.
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems I'm really left with no option then.
In that case, are DRM keys linked to the hardware or firmware? In other words, by flashing the pre-rooted firmware will i still keep my original DRM keys? Or will I have new DRM keys, belonging/linked to said pre-rooted firmware?
djyoshii said:
Seems I'm really left with no option then.
In that case, are DRM keys linked to the hardware or firmware? In other words, by flashing the pre-rooted firmware will i still keep my original DRM keys? Or will I have new DRM keys, belonging/linked to said pre-rooted firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK, it's only connected to xreality and a couple of other bits. More importantly it does have an effect on some streaming apps like netflix which will only work with drm. Think there may be a workaround for that on xda somewhere.
Also, if you lose drm and cannot restore the ta partition in event of breakage, then warranty is void.
Worth backing up I'd say if only for warranty purposes.
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Like Spyder says, downgrade to 532 with Flashtool (no root or anything is needed), root it (it's very simple), backup TA (even simpler), unlock your bootloader, update to 290 again and root it (it's pretty simple with an unlocked bootloader).
If you regret it all and you want to re-lock the bootloader, be sure to be on a stock ROM with stock kernel and restore TA with the same tool you used to back it up with. This will also re-lock the bootloader. If you re-lock it on a custom kernel, your Ultra will not function. It will not reboot, and all you'll be left with is a blinking red LED over the screen. IF this happens, be sure to unlock the bootloader again, and it'll boot normally again.
You only have to backup the TA partition once, so if you choose to restore it and you want to unlock the bootloader yet again down the road, then just unlock it. You have the DRM keys, so you're safe. Be sure to back them up in the cloud too (Drive, Dropbox etc.) in case your computer crashes or you simply forget the DRM keys are there.
I wrote a guide on all this stuff, so take a look at it here.
You'll need to follow:
- Downgrading
- Rooting
- Backup TA Partition
- Unlocking the bootloader
After that, just download a 290 FTF and repeat step one (downgrading, but only with 290). Then when you're on 290, follow the guide you've already found. You can also flash Recovery/TWRP by following the short "Recovery and TWRP" section.
Good luck!

Regarding Bootloader unlock...

Hello guys
I am probably getting my self an xperia z2 this week...
So my question is:
Since i go mad when i get a new phone(desperate need to flash everything out there such as roms, kernels etc) , I need to know what do i lose if i unlock my bootloader and if i do lose something can i get it back?
Please answer only if you are certain of what you are talking about, i want to be free of doubt if possible
There is a lot of debate on what is lost/broken when you unlock the bootloader. As far as I'm aware X-reality, Super Vivid, noise cancelling, and a few other things get lost. It is able to back them up (By Backing the Ta partition up) and restore them at a later date, restoring them re-locks the bootloader though. To back the TA partition up you have to be rooted, you can find guides for that in the general section (there is no one click root method for 23.x.x.x.x.x firmwares btw). @Envious_Data you got any more info on the subject?
from my testing
you lose:
warrenty (region spesific/carrier/international)
X-Reality
Bionz Image processing
the last one effects camera quality but isnt a complete death of camera quality its somewhat worse but its not something to complain about because the device is still able to perform well
x-reality only works in the album app so no need to worry unless you like your pictures being slightly oversaturated and super sharp
i recomend downgrading to 314 via FTF>flashtool and rooting the device so you can backup your TA using the TA backup tool
after you have backed up your TA, store it somewhere safe, google drive, usb stick anywhere you wont lose it
unlock your bootloader and have fun, so long as you dont brick your device
Guys, I'm new to Sony Xperia Z2. Yesterday I backed up my TA partition with TWRP, today I unlocked the bootloader. May I safely restore the TA partition when the bootloader is unlocked, and even after I update the firmware?
I have read a few warnings that wrong TA may permanently hard-brick the device. So, that's why I am afraid.
if you restore someone elses TA it'll brick your device
you have to be on a stock kernel to restore your TA as doing this will relock your bootloader
Then that's fine. The kernel and entire firmware has not changed yet. TA backup is mine.
This guide answered all of my questions: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2642081

working root method for 5.1.1 with unlockable bootloader?

I have mine updated to 5.1.1 and the bootloader is unlockable. However, the rooting instruction is confusing for this version.
I am looking for the definite solution for rooting (if it is required to unlock the bootloader, should I backup TA partition first?) 100% stock 5.1.1.
Frankly, I don't want to mess with Kingroot or similar tools from China.
I'm interested in this as well. Sent for warranty repair and came back with 5.1.1. Looking for recommended way to root and backup TA (though I have the original backup somewhere)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/general/guide-how-to-root-install-recovery-t3210207
I managed to root the device. Here is a guide:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z-ultra/general/comprehensive-guide-rooting-5-1-x-t3219502
This is how i did it...downgraded to 4.4.4 and root it,TA backup, unlocked the device, updated to 5.1.1 with stock ftf installed the new recovery an flashed the TWRP after that flash the SuperSU zip and done...
fnldstntn said:
This is how i did it...downgraded to 4.4.4 and root it,TA backup, unlocked the device, updated to 5.1.1 with stock ftf installed the new recovery an flashed the TWRP after that flash the SuperSU zip and done...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a waste of time. OP has an unlockable bootloader, so he just has to:
- Flash recovery
- Flash SuperSU
- Reboot
Klaos3000 said:
That's a waste of time. OP has an unlockable bootloader, so he just has to:
- Flash recovery
- Flash SuperSU
- Reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
unlockable =/= unlocked
mingkee said:
unlockable =/= unlocked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocking the BL is still FAR quicker than going through that hellish process for locked bootloaders. It's like trying to juggle with your hands tied to your back, but they're not really tied. Not sure why WE are arguing though. You provided a guide for a locked bootloader, while I gave one for unlocked. What OP decides to do is currently a mystery.
Klaos3000 said:
Unlocking the BL is still FAR quicker than going through that hellish process for locked bootloaders. It's like trying to juggle with your hands tied to your back, but they're not really tied. Not sure why WE are arguing though. You provided a guide for a locked bootloader, while I gave one for unlocked. What OP decides to do is currently a mystery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a deal: unlocking bootloader will remove DRM key. The only workaround is to backup TA partition. However, doing such also requires root, so you have to root before unlocking bootloader.
Don't you know your method is no brainer???! But dealing with DRM key is another story.
Hello !
Frankly you should try with kingroot it's not really a big deal it's quicker and don't worry you will not mess up your phone. I did the same on mine, and it's quick...
LordBli said:
Hello !
Frankly you should try with kingroot it's not really a big deal it's quicker and don't worry you will not mess up your phone. I did the same on mine, and it's quick...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kingroot does not work with 5.1.x, sorry.
I still have to rollback to 4.4.x and use dualrecovery method 3.
mingkee said:
Kingroot does not work with 5.1.x, sorry.
I still have to rollback to 4.4.x and use dualrecovery method 3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, so roll back to KitKat, root, backup your TA, unlock bootloader, and then update to 5.1.1 again. You'll then be able to just flash a recovery and root. If you don't care about the TA partition, then unlock bootloader and flash recovery and root.
Be aware that if your device is still under warranty, it'll be voided the second you lose the DRM keys (TA). If you're not under warranty anymore, it doesn't make any difference. If your device has to go into repairs down the road, it won't matter since you don't have warranty either way. But if you have, it's a good idea to back it up.
Also, the X-Reality engine etc. were at one point dependent on the TA partition, but this changed on KitKat, so X-Reality still works on an unlocked bootloader (even though it's really bad).
Klaos3000 said:
Okay, so roll back to KitKat, root, backup your TA, unlock bootloader, and then update to 5.1.1 again. You'll then be able to just flash a recovery and root. If you don't care about the TA partition, then unlock bootloader and flash recovery and root.
Be aware that if your device is still under warranty, it'll be voided the second you lose the DRM keys (TA). If you're not under warranty anymore, it doesn't make any difference. If your device has to go into repairs down the road, it won't matter since you don't have warranty either way. But if you have, it's a good idea to back it up.
Also, the X-Reality engine etc. were at one point dependent on the TA partition, but this changed on KitKat, so X-Reality still works on an unlocked bootloader (even though it's really bad).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is what I did as mentioned on the post linked on earlier post.
Download the latest ROM with Xperifirm, and 4.4.x ROM found in a sticky on the general section.
Pack the 5.1.X ROM as flashable pre-rooted.
Use Flashtool to rollback to 4.4.x, completely wipe, made initial setup and enable debug, and install recovery.
Install pre-rooted ROM through TWRP.
Backup TA partition and device data.
Unlock bootloader.
Restore TA partition and device data.
Done.

Root questions

Hello,
I am new to this forum and rooting procces, I've read some threads and didn't understand few things.
So, my questions are:
1. Is it possible to root phone without unlocking bootloader and losing DRM keys?
2. If it isn't,is there a way to backup DRM keys and restore them after rooting?
3. If I am able to root without unlocking bootloader will I still get OTA updates and if I do, will OTA update delete my root status?
Sorry if these questions were already asked in other thread, I was searching a bit and couldn't find any of those. Hope you can help me out.
Thank you in advance and have a nice day
1. Yes it is although you do need some time to do it. It's not difficult though.
2. As soon as you root, you can take a ta backup(which requires a few clicks and about 2 minutes of your time).
3. You won't be able to use Ota (even if you are which you most likely won't, it is recommended that you DO NOT use it).
cindra said:
1. Is it possible to root phone without unlocking bootloader and losing DRM keys?
2. If it isn't,is there a way to backup DRM keys and restore them after rooting?
3. If I am able to root without unlocking bootloader will I still get OTA updates and if I do, will OTA update delete my root status?
Sorry if these questions were already asked in other thread, I was searching a bit and couldn't find any of those. Hope you can help me out.
Thank you in advance and have a nice day
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1.-Yes, the method is called "Downgrading". I go back to 4.4.2 (Build number 314) and use the older XZDR (Xperia Z Dual Recovery). It will temporarily root to install the recovery. When the phone reboots you can install a custom ROM or whatever to get Lollipop with Root and Recovery
2.-After rooting on 4.4.2 you can do a backup of the DRM Keys
3.-Just because you have rooted your phone you will no longer be able to get OTA updates for the Android system itself. OTA will show a random error message and PC Companion will refuse because of the modified software.
Ok, thank you for answers
Is there any 6+ Android build that is pre-rooted or is it better to stick with 5.1.1 rooted?
Alo, I've heard that cam quality could drop after rooting or unlocking bootloader, is it true?
cindra said:
Ok, thank you for answers
Is there any 6+ Android build that is pre-rooted or is it better to stick with 5.1.1 rooted?
Alo, I've heard that cam quality could drop after rooting or unlocking bootloader, is it true?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stick with android 5.1.1 for now.
And yes, cam quality WILL DROP, but only after UNLOCKING YOUR BOOTLOADER. Rooting alone won't hurt your cam quality.
Mokiwipeout said:
Stick with android 5.1.1 for now.
And yes, cam quality WILL DROP, but only after UNLOCKING YOUR BOOTLOADER. Rooting alone won't hurt your cam quality.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so I was thinking a lot if I should root or not. I decided to root. So just to clarify some things. If I use comunity root with downgrading,will it keep my DRM keys? If yes, I backup TA partition when rooted and then I can proceed with BL unlocking. Can I restore DRM keys to a custom ROM? Do you have any good custom ROM suggestion for me and is it better to use odexed or deodexed ROM?
I saw also saw this thread, hope it works so I won't be losing any camera quality.
That should be all.
Thank you in advance.
Have a nice day .
If you do NOT UNLOCK your bootloader, you wont lose your drm keys. (this is why after rooting using this method you can actually backup your drm keys, which you MUST DO no matter what).
When you restore your drm keys, you actually RELOCK your bootloader, so you must be on a stock based custom rom, and not using a custom kernel, otherwise you will simply brick your device.
Odexed or deodexed rom is purely personal preference, the difference being that deodexed ROMs allow for more customization (which is not necessary though). Regarding this, it doesn't really matter whether it is deodexed or not, so keep this in mind.
I cannot suggest a rom and I would advise against asking which rom is the best, because it is against the forum's rules.
Mokiwipeout said:
If you do NOT UNLOCK your bootloader, you wont lose your drm keys. (this is why after rooting using this method you can actually backup your drm keys, which you MUST DO no matter what).
When you restore your drm keys, you actually RELOCK your bootloader, so you must be on a stock based custom rom, and not using a custom kernel, otherwise you will simply brick your device.
Odexed or deodexed rom is purely personal preference, the difference being that deodexed ROMs allow for more customization (which is not necessary though). Regarding this, it doesn't really matter whether it is deodexed or not, so keep this in mind.
I cannot suggest a rom and I would advise against asking which rom is the best, because it is against the forum's rules.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for answer. If i use this method will it keep my bootloader locked (Will DRM keys stay on phone?).
Look.
Your bootloader cannot be "accidentally" unlocked. You have to get the bootloader unlock code by YOURSELF. A program wont do it on its own.
So don't worry, even if the method you chose to root the device requires an unlocked bootloader, it will be stated since you have to do it manually.
Plus, rooting a device with an unlocked bootloader simply requires installing a custom kernel(which has a recovery too) and then flashing a zip file that will root the phone.
Mokiwipeout said:
Look.
Your bootloader cannot be "accidentally" unlocked. You have to get the bootloader unlock code by YOURSELF. A program wont do it on its own.
So don't worry, even if the method you chose to root the device requires an unlocked bootloader, it will be stated since you have to do it manually.
Plus, rooting a device with an unlocked bootloader simply requires installing a custom kernel(which has a recovery too) and then flashing s zip fike that will root the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much and sorry for so stupid questions, I am new to this and just want to be sure

Nougat, locked bootloader and DRM hack?

Hi.
Last year I unlocked bootloader and rooted my Z5C before it was possible to backup the TA and now I'm a bit lost in what to do. Yesterday I used Flashtool to install 32.3.A.0.378 but the problem is the DRM is gone. I have a locked bootloader so apps that check for this finally work. Therefore, if possible, I want to stay on locked bootloader a bit if it's possible to put in a DRM hack so camera pictures are nice again.
Is it possible to keep bootloader locked and install AndroPlus kernel? Or is there another way of getting DRM back without unlocking?
Device is not rooted and there's no recovery on it. But it's smooth like hell! :laugh:
Any suggestions?
No, not possible.
If you want a kernel with drm fix, you have to unlock bootloader
Gewiz said:
No, not possible.
If you want a kernel with drm fix, you have to unlock bootloader
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a bunch. Unlocking it is...

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