I'm pretty sure my phone is also a time machine...here's why, and please clear this up for me. I have tried googling this to find out how I ended up with such a special Super Galaxy S4. I got my Verizon S4 back in April last year and have been rooted ever since it was possible...so, in other words I have one of the original MDK builds. Why am I always reading about people freaking out because of 'accidentally' upgrading their firmware on these builds...hang on, let me continue. I have flashed a ROM on my phone about 131 times, and flashed maybe 2 or 3 radios...after doing so, my baseband and build numbers would change pretty regularly... to ME7, MK2, and everything in between. I have absolutely no trouble flashing whatever I want for the most part, and can always go back to MDK...why is this? I have lots of theories but they all revolve around me being awesome...and I'm sure you'd rather not hear them. Can anyone explain this?
calebcabob said:
I'm pretty sure my phone is also a time machine...here's why, and please clear this up for me. I have tried googling this to find out how I ended up with such a special Super Galaxy S4. I got my Verizon S4 back in April last year and have been rooted ever since it was possible...so, in other words I have one of the original MDK builds. Why am I always reading about people freaking out because of 'accidentally' upgrading their firmware on these builds...hang on, let me continue. I have flashed a ROM on my phone about 131 times, and flashed maybe 2 or 3 radios...after doing so, my baseband and build numbers would change pretty regularly... to ME7, MK2, and everything in between. I have absolutely no trouble flashing whatever I want for the most part, and can always go back to MDK...why is this? I have lots of theories but they all revolve around me being awesome...and I'm sure you'd rather not hear them. Can anyone explain this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I think your referring to flashing custom ROMs that are " upgraded" past MDK. You can obviously do that without issue. You can also flash any modem you want ( baseband ).
But what people are referring to when they say do NOT update an MDK phone is either an OTA Update directly from Verizon... Or using Odin to flash stock firmware beyond MDK.
If you do that your bootloaders going to lose the Loki Exploit and bye bye custom recovery... Follow me??
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Blue Tapatalk 2
---------- Post added at 10:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:43 PM ----------
Grab this app
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.vndnguyen.phoneinfo
Your bootloaders going to be MDK
And your radio will be whatever one you last flashed. And depending on what ROM you're running, in your about phone it MAY show you a different build other than MDK. That's just the build the Dev based the ROM off of.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Blue Tapatalk 2
Like the poster above said, flashing Modems/Radios will change what's shown as your "baseband" in about phone, but won't affect your MDK bootloader. So your bootloader version was never upgraded/downgraded.
phew!
Ah...so it's not all about me. Thanks for the thoroughly explained answers from both of u guys. That really clears things up. And glad to know about the modem being OK to flash/upgrade. Well, I am EXTREMELY lucky- seeing how I tried an OTA update last week after having to flash a retail image to my S4 with Odin (soft brick)...because the OTA update failed! I will NEVER try that again!! Ha. Thanks for the info!
calebcabob said:
Ah...so it's not all about me. Thanks for the thoroughly explained answers from both of u guys. That really clears things up. And glad to know about the modem being OK to flash/upgrade. Well, I am EXTREMELY lucky- seeing how I tried an OTA update last week after having to flash a retail image to my S4 with Odin (soft brick)...because the OTA update failed! I will NEVER try that again!! Ha. Thanks for the info!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely don't update via OTA or use anything in Odin other than MDK.!!!
After you root your phone use Titanium Backup and freeze "SDM " and "FWUpgrade" then make a backup in whatever recovery you're using.
Those two things being frozen ( I think SDM is good enough ) will stop any OTA possibility. Although being rooted and whatever else you may have done should be enough to stop it. No need to risk it lol
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Blue Tapatalk 2
Mistertac said:
Definitely don't update via OTA or use anything in Odin other than MDK.!!!
After you root your phone use Titanium Backup and freeze "SDM " and "FWUpgrade" then make a backup in whatever recovery you're using.
Those two things being frozen ( I think SDM is good enough ) will stop any OTA possibility. Although being rooted and whatever else you may have done should be enough to stop it. No need to risk it lol
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Blue Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm...I searched Titanium for SDM and anything with FW (FWUpgrade) in it, i dont see anything there. I tried just browsing too. Maybe BoneStock v2.1 (VZW, TW, 4.3) is built without those files already? I'd like to do what you're recommending though, that makes so much sense. I found "ConfigUpdater" but, that's probably not what I want, right?
calebcabob said:
Hmm...I searched Titanium for SDM and anything with FW (FWUpgrade) in it, i dont see anything there. I tried just browsing too. Maybe BoneStock v2.1 (VZW, TW, 4.3) is built without those files already? I'd like to do what you're recommending though, that makes so much sense. I found "ConfigUpdater" but, that's probably not what I want, right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would imagine @andybones removed the OTA files from his rom.
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Yea I was referring to if you were on stock MDK ... The devs most certainly remove all that junk. My bad for not making myself clear.. Thanks Josh
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Blue Tapatalk 2
calebcabob said:
I'm pretty sure my phone is also a time machine...here's why, and please clear this up for me. I have tried googling this to find out how I ended up with such a special Super Galaxy S4. I got my Verizon S4 back in April last year and have been rooted ever since it was possible...so, in other words I have one of the original MDK builds. Why am I always reading about people freaking out because of 'accidentally' upgrading their firmware on these builds...hang on, let me continue. I have flashed a ROM on my phone about 131 times, and flashed maybe 2 or 3 radios...after doing so, my baseband and build numbers would change pretty regularly... to ME7, MK2, and everything in between. I have absolutely no trouble flashing whatever I want for the most part, and can always go back to MDK...why is this? I have lots of theories but they all revolve around me being awesome...and I'm sure you'd rather not hear them. Can anyone explain this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no way to go back but if you are looking to update to 4.4.2 before the release let me know because I just updated!!! I will send screenshots upon request.
jake.99x3 said:
There is no way to go back but if you are looking to update to 4.4.2 before the release let me know because I just updated!!! I will send screenshots upon request.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did u read that post lol
Sent from my HTC6525LVW using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Related
I want to post this thread to help those of you
who are new to android and to the Galaxy S4.
There are many videos on how to do kool things
to your S4, but most of them don't include the
Verizon version of those kool new things. If you
need help and you are relatively new, I ca listen
to your questions and help you out. Most of the
developers are too busy doing other things so we
can have kooler things for our devices, they don't
need another task to take upon their shoulders.
Thank you all developers for Giving us the great
power that comes with Android.
Don't take this the wrong way, but something about this post makes me hope that you'll only be pointing people in the direction of the proper guide, not trying to explain it.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
Thanks for the thread, i am new to android, just switched over from iphone (but i am actually very tech savvy). any idea how/if i can update to android 4.3 on touchwiz while while maintaining my root on the mdk version? i read an article saying you can force the 4.3 update to any s4
edit:
just realized the article was for google play edition, but seeing that i am rooted, does it make a difference?
thecrunked said:
Thanks for the thread, i am new to android, just switched over from iphone (but i am actually very tech savvy). any idea how/if i can update to android 4.3 on touchwiz while while maintaining my root on the mdk version? i read an article saying you can force the 4.3 update to any s4
edit:
just realized the article was for google play edition, but seeing that i am rooted, does it make a difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All the 4.3 ports are aosp I believe. So no TW. theres a thread about them in the Q and A section.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 2
thecrunked said:
Thanks for the thread, i am new to android, just switched over from iphone (but i am actually not very tech savvy). any idea how/if i can update to android 4.3 on touchwiz while while maintaining my root on the mdk version? i read an article saying you can force the 4.3 update to any s4
edit:
just realized the article was for google play edition, but seeing that i am rooted, does it make a difference?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. That's not how android works. It's not like an iPhone where all of the updates come from apple. Android updates don't come from Google unless you own a Nexus device or a GE device. They usually come from the OEM and carrier. And it's not universal. You can't apply an update from another carrier on your device. The only thing you could do at this point is to install a custom recovery like TWRP or CWM. I think there are a few ROMs in development that have a 4.3 base, but that's it. Also, you can't maintain the MDK version and also update to 4.3. They're two completely different versions with many of the components being different, including the bootloader and recovery.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
mateopase said:
No. That's not how android works. It's not like an iPhone where all of the updates come from apple. Android updates don't come from Google unless you own a Nexus device or a GE device. They usually come from the OEM and carrier. And it's not universal.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HTC and Samsung handle the updates for their Google Play edition device.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda premium
Well , i think i posted this on the verizon GS4 forum... which i have quite of bit of knowlege... if you are already advanced in rooting ROMs and etc.... this is not for you... im trying to help those with little knowledge the best i can... thats all
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
There are no touch wiz android 4.3 yet.... your best bet is staying on mdk.... because any update that verizon pushes out will lock the loki hack and brake root.... check out the post on the list of ROMs the GS4 has. If you don't like any of the ROMs you'll have to wait for a prerooted Android 4.3for Galaxy S4 to come out.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
And yes... if i don't know something... of course ill point to the direction that is needed.... i dont know everything.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
thepianoman77 said:
And yes... if i don't know something... of course ill point to the direction that is needed.... i dont know everything.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your willingness to help out folks newer to Android.
thanks for the info. my gs4 is rooted on mdk with goomanager's recovery. i have been happy with touchwiz so far, so i haven't flashed any other roms yet. i disabled the OTA update with titanium backup but i am a little curious about the VRUAME7 update. what exactly is the deal with that, you can root but not use a custom recovery (so your stuck on touchwiz) or can i get a rooted version of it and have recovery too while enjoying whatever the new updates are.
I have one question for everyone. Depending on the answers I get, the if it aint broke dont fix it rule will apply. So here it goes. (fingers crossed)
I was on Beans MDK Rom with stock kernel and decided to try Darkslide Rom. My phone didnt like the that rom so I flashed back to Beans using my nandroid backup using TWRP. Everything is working fine with no issues at all. Here is where my question comes. I looked at my baseband and it show ME7. Why? My backup should have put me on MDK...right? How I get baseband back to MDK? Anyone have suggestions?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
thecrunked said:
thanks for the info. my gs4 is rooted on mdk with goomanager's recovery. i have been happy with touchwiz so far, so i haven't flashed any other roms yet. i disabled the OTA update with titanium backup but i am a little curious about the VRUAME7 update. what exactly is the deal with that, you can root but not use a custom recovery (so your stuck on touchwiz) or can i get a rooted version of it and have recovery too while enjoying whatever the new updates are.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have a device that wasn't officially updated to ME7 then you can flash any of the ME7 roms in the dev section. You'll enjoy the new features such as apps2sd and you can flash the ME7 modem separately (Darkslide flashes it for you).
GameChanger said:
I have one question for everyone. Depending on the answers I get, the if it aint broke dont fix it rule will apply. So here it goes. (fingers crossed)
I was on Beans MDK Rom with stock kernel and decided to try Darkslide Rom. My phone didnt like the that rom so I flashed back to Beans using my nandroid backup using TWRP. Everything is working fine with no issues at all. Here is where my question comes. I looked at my baseband and it show ME7. Why? My backup should have put me on MDK...right? How I get baseband back to MDK? Anyone have suggestions?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The baseband refers to the modem which isn't changed by flashing most roms or restoring nandroids. However, since Darkslide flashes it alongside the rom (only rom that does this) that is why your baseband changed to ME7. You can get back the MDK modem in a few threads but there is an easy one to find in the second post of the BoneStock rom.
Sent from my GS4
il buono said:
If you have a device that wasn't officially updated to ME7 then you can flash any of the ME7 roms in the dev section. You'll enjoy the new features such as apps2sd and you can flash the ME7 modem separately (Darkslide flashes it for you).
The baseband refers to the modem which isn't changed by flashing most roms or restoring nandroids. However, since Darkslide flashes it alongside the rom (only rom that does this) that is why your baseband changed to ME7. You can get back the MDK modem in a few threads but there is an easy one to find in the second post of the BoneStock rom.
Sent from my GS4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am back on MDK again. I searched everywhere for an answer. Thanks il buono
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
There is one ROM that someone created that is pre rooted... i forgot where i saw it... but yes... its only a Rom so you would be able to go back to whatever Rom you backed up... that being CM10 or stock...
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
GameChanger said:
I am back on MDK again. I searched everywhere for an answer. Thanks il buono
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im glad you you found the answer you were looking for.=]
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda app-developers app
How do I tell which build the phone is at the store
Hi,
I'm new to android and all internet phones.
I'm using a relic right now Motorola e815 with just the phone (text blocked) and I need to get a GS4 for Verizon. I modified my e815 7 years ago, so I could put ringtones on it from the card, but the state of the art (SOTA) curve seems a bit steep with never having used an android phone.
I would like to get the GS4 root it and put custom ROMs on it. From what I read currently, I think this can be done only on the expensive developer phones, or pre ME7 builds.
My questions are:
How do I tell which build the phone has at the store so I can tell if they are selling ME7 or not? Another thread from today said the stock 16gb phones at the store a few days ago when he got his were all pre ME7. Another thread on another board said try asking for the least popular color. OK, but how do I quickly check what the build version is. Yes I've UTFSE, but I must not be calling something by the correct name in the search engine.
Also how do I make sure the CSA does not update the phone and that there is no automatic update before I get home and turn it off? I don't want to find a phone I can root and ROM, but have some idiot screw it up for me by doing the OTA or it happening on my way home from the store. Also if I go to get an app from ? (titanium backup) to turn off autoupdate, do I risk it automatically updating before I can get the chance to root it?
Thank you very much for any help your suggestion you have to offer me and anyone else reading this.
minionhunter said:
Hi,
I'm new to android and all internet phones.
I'm using a relic right now Motorola e815 with just the phone (text blocked) and I need to get a GS4 for Verizon. I modified my e815 7 years ago, so I could put ringtones on it from the card, but the state of the art (SOTA) curve seems a bit steep with never having used an android phone.
I would like to get the GS4 root it and put custom ROMs on it. From what I read currently, I think this can be done only on the expensive developer phones, or pre ME7 builds.
My questions are:
How do I tell which build the phone has at the store so I can tell if they are selling ME7 or not? Another thread from today said the stock 16gb phones at the store a few days ago when he got his were all pre ME7. Another thread on another board said try asking for the least popular color. OK, but how do I quickly check what the build version is. Yes I've UTFSE, but I must not be calling something by the correct name in the search engine.
Also how do I make sure the CSA does not update the phone and that there is no automatic update before I get home and turn it off? I don't want to find a phone I can root and ROM, but have some idiot screw it up for me by doing the OTA or it happening on my way home from the store. Also if I go to get an app from ? (titanium backup) to turn off autoupdate, do I risk it automatically updating before I can get the chance to root it?
Thank you very much for any help your suggestion you have to offer me and anyone else reading this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can answer SOME of your question... I believe that there is really no way to know if the phone has the me7 update on it without turning it on to check... I'm sorry.... I got my phone around the same time the new update was coming out. You can always ask the store assistant to try to set up the phone while you're in the store, that way you can quickly set it up... then go to settings/more/about phone/build number to check if the last three characters are me7 or not...... Although it would be hard to find a way out of that if you find out it has the me7 update.......
If you know for sure that the phone does not have me7 on it for sure..... turn all data off ... wi-fi, moble network... etc.... and download Titanium Backup apk to your computer..... from there you can transfer it to an sd card or USB it to your phone and install it manually....... BUT... for the app to work you have to be already rooted.... so before you buy the phone you need to watch this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gm3jw3hft1g and follow all instructions for the downloads... You dont nee a network connection to root.... DO NOT TURN YOUR DATA/WI-FI CONNECTION UNTIL YOU FOLLOW ALL I'M TELLING YOU..... once you are rooted SUCCESSFULLY..... run titanium backup find "SDM 1.0" click on it and freeze it!... this will make it so Titanium Backup will Deny the process that pushes the updates.... ater THE APP HAS BEEN FROZEN. You can turn the data back on.... Having done this... you are now able to install the Loki hack and flash ROMs... instructions for Loki hack= http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nc_Mh_nNPPw ...... if you have any more questions... PLEASE ASK.... Good Luck. so review...................... ALSO if you need very extremely thorough instructions on how to use Titanium backup see this video. "" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZEa10WtFng
1. Find GS4 without me7
2. Turn off all data
3. Root GS4
4. Download Titanium Backup.apk to PC
5.Transfer apk to phone storage
6. Install Titanium Backup manually on GS4
7. Find "SDM 1.0" and Freeze it
8. You are now safe from me7 update
9. Turn data back on if wished
10. Loki hack bootloader
11. GO CRAZY!!!
"unrelated"
BTW to anyone reading this.... how do you add a link to a word... you know... like when people say.... click here.... and then the word "here" has a ling in it... ??
thepianoman77 said:
snip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much, that is excellent!!!
I'll let you know how it goes.
thepianoman77 said:
"unrelated"
BTW to anyone reading this.... how do you add a link to a word... you know... like when people say.... click here.... and then the word "here" has a ling in it... ??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
type something like this:
Click (URL=www.google.com]This[/URL] Link
except put in a [ instead of ( infront on where i initially typed URL
I'm currently rooted on VRUAMDK with (what I believe to be anyway) the first method from when the phone was released. I didn't have much time to bother with it when ME7 came out so I just froze SDM in TiBu and ignored it until now.
Today I saw the info about the MI1 update and decided to give it a shot updating. I saw that it was already rooted so I figured I'd just go for it and do an OTA after unfreezing SDM. However, when I tried that the install restarted the phone into Team Win Recovery and didn't complete. I assume this was because TWR blocks the install to avoid you losing root or something like that.
What I'm wondering is if there's a way to update to MI1 through TWR or some other alternative to the Verizon OTA so I don't lose root at all? I would like to know if there's a similar method for rooted phones with ME7 (since my girlfriends phone is rooted on that.).
Thanks in advance.
Don't take the OTA. Just get an MI1 stock deodex ROM. For the love of God keep your bootloader intact. The newer ones are not exploitable.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
ozzzzysh said:
Don't take the OTA. Just get an MI1 stock deodex ROM. For the love of God keep your bootloader intact. The newer ones are not exploitable.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, I thought that might be the right course of action but wasn't sure that the ROMs were equivalent of an OTA or just a custom rebuild of the old version.
As for my Girlfriend whose phone came with ME7? Should she just take the OTA and then Root again?
The MI1 OTA, from what I've gathered, enables a custom software counter. So unless she's planning on staying fully stock I would avoid the update. MI1 didn't really change enough to justify anyone to update as far as I know.
By custom software counter, I mean that if you were to tinker with your phone too much, it would blow a permanent qfuse that would let Samsung know not to grant your warranty when the time comes.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
Reonar_Dauth said:
Okay, I thought that might be the right course of action but wasn't sure that the ROMs were equivalent of an OTA or just a custom rebuild of the old version.
As for my Girlfriend whose phone came with ME7? Should she just take the OTA and then Root again?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Neither update offers anything of real value that the custom rom's aren't bringing to the table. Hell there are flashable radios even. Apps to SD for me7 might be the only useful feature. But there are custom me7 roms. Wait on the devs to update you.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
No real value over the MDK release. It just locks things down.
Get one of the ROMs based on MI1.
Move along,,,, Nothing to see....
Bump
If I am still on MDK, can I use any rom (4.3/4.4) or only roms for 4.2.2 MDK?
Things were much simpler on my GNex
PeterifficX said:
Bump
If I am still on MDK, can I use any rom (4.3/4.4) or only roms for 4.2.2 MDK?
Things were much simpler on my GNex
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can flash any rom you want. The only way you'll lock yourself down is if you take an official update.
Verification please
PeterifficX said:
Bump
If I am still on MDK, can I use any rom (4.3/4.4) or only roms for 4.2.2 MDK?
Things were much simpler on my GNex
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Crawshayi said:
You can flash any rom you want. The only way you'll lock yourself down is if you take an official update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey folks...... :highfive: I'm currently working on my Ex Wifes phone SCH-I545. I've not updated or done anything to her phone since I rooted and installed Beanstown. Quite some time ago. Any way, Her Android version is 4.2.2/VRUAMDK. :good: TWRP for recovery, not sure the version. My question is, Can I just flash any of the latest ROMs to her phone? I just want to make sure I don't screw her phone up. @Crawshayi, I see your answer right there. I just want to double check and know that I won't lock her phone down.
I really appreciate you guys. Without you and XDA, I'd be completely lost.
Sincerely
David C
Edit: Thanks guys. Everything worked perfect. My phones are running flawless.
Showing off here. NOTE 2 left side this on my right.
Hey everyone,
Just got the note 3 today and it's pretty dope!!!! I did not take the OTA update to kk 4.4.2, which is what I assume it wants to do. I'm on 4.3 with the MI5 baseband. Is there Knox on this bootloader that I have to worry about? Is it easier rooting with what I have or easier on 4.4.2? Thanks in advance for any advice
Either one you can auto root with Chainfires method which trips knox, you can also root with Kingo which doesn't trip knox. But as soon as you flash a recovery it will. Congrats on the new phone.
mta1981 said:
Hey everyone,
Just got the note 3 today and it's pretty dope!!!! I did not take the OTA update to kk 4.4.2, which is what I assume it wants to do. I'm on 4.3 with the MI5 baseband. Is there Knox on this bootloader that I have to worry about? Is it easier rooting with what I have or easier on 4.4.2? Thanks in advance for any advice
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Take the update and then decide if you wish to root. That bootloader and version of Jellybean in 5 months old. Where did you buy this phone? You have 3 updates to get to KitKat, so it's going to be awhile.
I would suggest going straight to KitKat via one of the One-click or tar files in the dev forum, but I strongly suggest that you read before making the choice.
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
micmars said:
Take the update and then decide if you wish to root. That bootloader and version of Jellybean in 5 months old. Where did you buy this phone? You have 3 updates to get to KitKat, so it's going to be awhile.
I would suggest going straight to KitKat via one of the One-click or tar files in the dev forum, but I strongly suggest that you read before making the choice.
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got it at the Sprint store, it was their last one. Than ks for the advice!
mta1981 said:
I got it at the Sprint store, it was their last one. Than ks for the advice!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problem, and thanks for answering. I really do hope you enjoy your time here on the forums.
[Side notes about the build number being MI3, I don't know if that bodes bad for Sammy or not, but that is pretty stale inventory. Kind of boggles the mind when there have been many on these threads whom have been bi+ch slapped by Sprint's recent rapacious turn IN servicing existing customers, waiting weeks for refurbished devices, when they've more than likely got older unboxed phones sitting in inventory collecting dust. That would kind of irk the crap our of me.]
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
micmars said:
Take the update and then decide if you wish to root. That bootloader and version of Jellybean in 5 months old. Where did you buy this phone? You have 3 updates to get to KitKat, so it's going to be awhile.
I would suggest going straight to KitKat via one of the One-click or tar files in the dev forum, but I strongly suggest that you read before making the choice.
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
micmars said:
No problem, and thanks for answering. I really do hope you enjoy your time here on the forums.
[Side notes about the build number being MI3, I don't know if that bodes bad for Sammy or not, but that is pretty stale inventory. Kind of boggles the mind when there have been many on these threads whom have been bi+ch slapped by Sprint's recent rapacious turn IN servicing existing customers, waiting weeks for refurbished devices, when they've more than likely got older unboxed phones sitting in inventory collecting dust. That would kind of irk the crap our of me.]
No prob! And thanks, I certainly will, xda is awesome! Spent plenty of time of here for my S3 and N7. Doesn't seem like Sprint cares or they dont want to give out new phones unless theyre making that dollar.
Correct me if im wrong but you cant flash a custom rom w/o a custom recovery right? I want to root so I can get a debloated rom whether it'd be stock debloated or CM but it seems tripping knox is inevitable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
and that was weird how that quoted you
mta1981 said:
No prob! And thanks, I certainly will, xda is awesome! Spent plenty of time of here for my S3 and N7. Doesn't seem like Sprint cares or they dont want to give out new phones unless theyre making that dollar.
Correct me if im wrong but you cant flash a custom rom w/o a custom recovery right? I want to root so I can get a debloated rom whether it'd be stock debloated or CM but it seems tripping knox is inevitable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I suggested that you either take the OTA updates on step sequence, or flash a one-click, and possibly avoid rooting if you can. You need to read, take counsel of patience, and choose for you. Going from TouchWiz to AOSP is not swift, requires time and care. Most importantly, do nothing in hot haste that which you would not do by taking time.
There is no single good reason not to wait if you are in the least undecided or unclear about the means or your desired outcome.
You'll be far happier in the long term. I'd avoid AOSP if this is your first time, but even here, that's my opinion.
Good luck.
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
---------- Post added at 01:08 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:00 AM ----------
mta1981 said:
and that was weird how that quoted you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fixed it for you.
Sent from my SM-N900P using Xparent BlueTapatalk 2
Well I tried 4 times with kingo root. usb debugging is checked and the drivers are fine. I tried searching for problems using kingo on MI5, sm-900p, and i got nothing. I just want to root to use titanium backup and freeze all the bloatware. or flash a kit kat rom with it all removed. Micmars, can you gain root by flashing one of those tar files you speak of with odin? or do I have to take the OTA update and then chainfires method? Ive been reading all I can for the past day and I feel like im stuck on the forums in bootloop!
Bump anybody?
mta1981 said:
Well I tried 4 times with kingo root. usb debugging is checked and the drivers are fine. I tried searching for problems using kingo on MI5, sm-900p, and i got nothing. I just want to root to use titanium backup and freeze all the bloatware. or flash a kit kat rom with it all removed. Micmars, can you gain root by flashing one of those tar files you speak of with odin? or do I have to take the OTA update and then chainfires method? Ive been reading all I can for the past day and I feel like im stuck on the forums in bootloop!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your not worried about your knox being tripped just use Chainfire's it's easy, download the correct version put it in the Pda slot in Odin flash and you are rooted. It's just about easy as it gets. Then download Rom manager or Goo manager and install one of the recoveries. Then you can flash what ever you like or debloat what you are running.
I know there are not alot of us around here, but I know of a few guys that are running a Verizon S4 with A T-Mobile SIM card.
I have been running Verizon ROMS and getting 95% functionality. Service is weird, but works most of the time with a few area's that I have to manually go into gsm mode to keep data. BUT I may have found a work around for all of it.
I am running a the i9505 4.4.2 TW ROM GoldenEye, nothing was changed in the ROM to make it work better with Verizon. I posted a thread to let other people know about it here and it is working for some, and it is failing for others with APN problems, but it was/is 100% working for me with no changes to settings at all. I installed, Loki-Dokied, and booted up to 4G automatically running. I got LTE by changing one word in the APN.
SO I need a couple guys who are running a T-Mobile sim in their i545 to test this method for me and see if I just got really lucky or if we have a winner here.
I will put the how to in the next thread.
***I take no credit for the work on this ROM or the Loki-Doki fix***
**I take no responsibility for you phone becoming a paper weight**
*You preform this at your own risk*
:highfive:
#1 You must be on the MDK boot loader, radio's don't matter but newer radio's seem to have a more stable connection.
#2 Do a Nandroid, you can never be to carful
#3 Do a full clean wipe like your supposed to...
#4 Flash GOLDENEYE VERSION 24 http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2427629 (The ROM)
DO NOT REBOOT (you will get an unauthorized boot loop)
#5 Flash http://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=23329332407577109 (The Loki-Doki)
#6 Reboot and let it sit for 5 or 6 minutes
#7 ????
#8 PROFIT
Report back here with any info or updates you guys have. I have tried a couple other i9505 ROMs with limited success but working together we might find some other ROMs this method works with. Also in the ROM thread iB4STiD has included links to remove a lot of bloat and additional mods.
To get LTE go into your APN settings adn change "epic.T-Mobile.com" to "fast.T-Mobile.com" The data icon wont change to LTE, but I am getting 26 Mbps
Give credit where it is due:
The ROM was created by: iB4STiD
Loki-Doki was created by: TheAxman
Both cool guys who gave me the go ahead to post their work.
justda said:
I am running a i9505 ROM that has had its boot loader removed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With the bootloader removed? Roms come with bootloaders now? And you can remove them?
gnubian said:
With the bootloader removed? Roms come with bootloaders now? And you can remove them?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am so tired ... and I havent finished editing or proof reading... thanks for pointing that out...
justda said:
I am so tired ... and I havent finished editing or proof reading... thanks for pointing that out...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So is the bootloader removed? ._.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
65vdub said:
So is the bootloader removed? ._.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya I pulled it out last night took some effort but she finally gave
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium HD app
Will create a backup of my current ROM and report back when I can. Downloading the Loki Doki zip and ROM now.
Edit: might not be able to get to it today though. Will try to do this ASAP.
Can I continue using the nonhlos MK2 modem or do I have to use the international modems?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
65vdub said:
Will create a backup of my current ROM and report back when I can. Downloading the Loki Doki zip and ROM now.
Edit: might not be able to get to it today though. Will try to do this ASAP.
Can I continue using the nonhlos MK2 modem or do I have to use the international modems?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No keep using your current modem. And this isn't a time sensitive thing take your time.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium HD app
justda said:
No keep using your current modem. And this isn't a time sensitive thing take your time.
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright man thanks! So the golden eye version 24 in the op does have the bootloader removed correct?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
65vdub said:
Alright man thanks! So the golden eye version 24 in the op does have the bootloader removed correct?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are joking right? Do you know what a bootloader is?
gnubian said:
You are joking right? Do you know what a bootloader is?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm aware of what the bootloader is, yes. But this is an i9505 ROM so it won't boot with the i545 without getting the unauthorized Verizon software screen. It was to my knowledge that the i9505 bootloader was removed to avoid this.
And I am on the MDK bootloader in case you were wondering.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
gnubian said:
You are joking right? Do you know what a bootloader is?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
...
If you read the thread for the EagleEye ROM in the OP's second or third post he mentions that the bootloader is not included. That is why I origionaly had it in my OP my lack of sleep and my smoking habits didnt allow the info to sink in right away while I was typing. I was in the process of editing my OP when you posted originally.
ROM's do not include the boot loader. Your bootloader if MDK will stay MDK no matter what ROM you flash.
**Edit I just noticed my phone is showing it as a i9505 for my XDA app signature. Lol
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium HD app
65vdub said:
I'm aware of what the bootloader is, yes. But this is an i9505 ROM so it won't boot with the i545 without getting the unauthorized Verizon software screen. It was to my knowledge that the i9505 bootloader was removed to avoid this.
And I am on the MDK bootloader in case you were wondering.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Roms do not have bootloaders, your phone does. Which was my point. If you have an mdk phone you have an exploitable bootloader. They are not packaged in the rom nor can they be removed from the phone. I just find it interesting that someone posting a ROM for testers ( as well as you, the tester ) doesn't seem understand this....
gnubian said:
They are not packaged in the rom nor can they be removed from the phone. I just find it interesting that someone posting a ROM for testers ( as well as you, the tester ) doesn't seem understand this....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah, well that I didn't know. So I thank you for the insight!
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
65vdub said:
Ah, well that I didn't know. So I thank you for the insight!
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries. Before you stated you were on mdk I thought you may have been on an older build, thinking you could flash it because "the bootloader had been removed." Just didn't want you to brick/trigger warranty flag from misunderstanding
gnubian said:
No worries. Before you stated you were on mdk I thought you may have been on an older build, thinking you could flash it because "the bootloader had been removed." Just didn't want you to brick/trigger warranty flag from misunderstanding
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha, my warranty is nonexistent as I bought the phone outright from swappa and am now on T-Mobile. I understand the gist of what having the MDK bootloader means along with how great it is to have the exploit djrbliss made available to us. Just never knew that bootloaders weren't attached to ROMs lol, but now I know. Again, many thanks for giving this noob some much needed insight .
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
gnubian said:
I just find it interesting that someone posting a ROM for testers ( as well as you, the tester ) doesn't seem understand this....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am by no means a developer, I am just a dumb ass who stumbled onto something that works for me through trial and error and listening to other dumb asses who tried stuff on their phones, and I was hoping it would work for others. Test it, don't test it, what ever.
To be honest I have no idea what a boot loader is, I know what boot loader I am on and I know that some smart guy exploited it to allow us to replace the software with something some other smart guy came up with. I know that the newer ones haven't been exploited like mine and that's why they can't do as much as MDK guys can. Hell I don't even really know what safestrap does but from my razr days I know it allows people to install different ROMs.
Bottom line, I am just a guy using other peoples work to try to help some other people not "error" as much as I have and enjoy their device a little bit more...
Sent from my GT-I9505 using XDA Premium HD app
justda said:
I know there are not alot of us around here, but I know of a few guys that are running a Verizon S4 with A T-Mobile SIM card.
I have been running Verizon ROMS and getting 95% functionality. Service is weird, but works most of the time with a few area's that I have to manually go into gsm mode to keep data. BUT I may have found a work around for all of it.
I am running a the i9505 4.4.2 TW ROM GoldenEye, nothing was changed in the ROM to make it work better with Verizon. I posted a thread to let other people know about it here and it is working for some, and it is failing for others with APN problems, but it was/is 100% working for me with no changes to settings at all. I installed, Loki-Dokied, and booted up to 4G automatically running. I got LTE by changing one word in the APN.
SO I need a couple guys who are running a T-Mobile sim in their i545 to test this method for me and see if I just got really lucky or if we have a winner here.
I will put the how to in the next thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm running on TMobile. I actually have been since we first started discussing the 4.4 TW roms on the i545. I've had no issues and didn't have to enter any APN settings.
The ROMs we are flashing, Goldeneye for instance, do not include the bootloader. If we were flashing Samsung images then bootloaders and modems would probably be included, and would probably brick the phone since we'd be flashing incorrect sw. That said, as long as you are on the MDK bootloader, exploited by Loki, and running a custom recovery, then following the steps in the OP should work for you. If you get stuck in a bootloop, it's probably a kernel error. Loki-doki should solve that for you. If not, that's why you have your Nandroid back right
---------- Post added at 03:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:25 PM ----------
FYI guys, I just flashed ktoonez Touchwiz Kit Kat Kernel. I took it from the Tmobile thread since there isn't a Verizon one yet. You need to flash loki-doki after flashing this kernel. So far no issues. I'll report back if I find any issues.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2289140
willstilson said:
FYI guys, I just flashed ktoonez Touchwiz Kit Kat Kernel. I took it from the Tmobile thread since there isn't a Verizon one yet. You need to flash loki-doki after flashing this kernel. So far no issues. I'll report back if I find any issues.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2289140
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am going to DL and flash soon as I get off work.
Seems to be working for me...
I am using a t-mobile SIM and am still on MDK. I followed the instructions in the OP, and the phone appears to be working. No other mods, themes, etc. other than the OP. SMS, MMS, Data all appear to work. Speeds seem consistent with LTE, but no way to know.
On initial boot, however, I always get this message: "Unfortunately, the process com.android.phone has stopped". However, after accepting the message, the phone appears to work normally. It may have something to do with the dark dialer theme that appears to be part of this ROM. I have seen that message before...
MaxYoda
I rooted my stock s4 using saferoot then flashed a kitkat 4.4.2 rom. When the new rom booted up i had lost root. I have since maxed out my binary counter trying to get back to 4.3 mk2 i think? which is what my phone came with. Now im stuck with this rom i dont want, i cant seem to root it using saferoot or motochopper. All this and im getting the yellow triangle which i cant use triangle away on because i dont have root. I used odin to flash the roms, ive tried different ones that were 4.3 but odin keeps failing i think because of my binary counter. Is there a way to reset the counter without root??
Armyeclipse said:
I rooted my stock s4 using saferoot then flashed a kitkat 4.4.2 rom. When the new rom booted up i had lost root. I have since maxed out my binary counter trying to get back to 4.3 mk2 i think? which is what my phone came with. Now im stuck with this rom i dont want, i cant seem to root it using saferoot or motochopper. All this and im getting the yellow triangle which i cant use triangle away on because i dont have root. I used odin to flash the roms, ive tried 10 different ones that were 4.3 but odin keeps failing i think because of my binary counter. Is there to reset the counter without root??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well since you flashed some version of 4.4.2 in Odin of course trying to put 4.3 back on won't work without jumping through some hoops. Check this thread out
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868
You should also check this one out
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2606501
Not having all your exact steps and what led you to hear doesn't help either. Try to be as detailed as possible.. Reading your post again I'm confused.. Is your phone working right now.. As In booting into Android or is it a brick??
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Armyeclipse said:
I rooted my stock s4 using saferoot then flashed a kitkat 4.4.2 rom. When the new rom booted up i had lost root. I have since maxed out my binary counter trying to get back to 4.3 mk2 i think? which is what my phone came with. Now im stuck with this rom i dont want, i cant seem to root it using saferoot or motochopper. All this and im getting the yellow triangle which i cant use triangle away on because i dont have root. I used odin to flash the roms, ive tried 10 different ones that were 4.3 but odin keeps failing i think because of my binary counter. Is there to reset the counter without root??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There aren't any 4.4 roms that you can flash outside of a leaked one and you can only do that doing specific steps unless you had a mdk phone or a dev phone....not sure what you did bit sounds like you have messed up. .
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
decaturbob said:
There aren't any 4.4 roms that you can flash outside of a leaked one and you can only do that doing specific steps unless you had a mdk phone or a dev phone....not sure what you did bit sounds like you have messed up. .
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea well there are Odin files of 4.4 around for our phone and certainly even stock firmware for other variants so... like you said though, sounds messed up
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Not to be a d***...but if people would read even one of the 50+ what not to do ops on here there wouldn't be 10+ per day people posting about how they f***** up their s4 and asking people who are trying to further development how to fix their new paperweight...also people who brick devices constantly due to not reading are the sole reason secured bootloaders exist...
jamesd1085 said:
Not to be a d***...but if people would read even one of the 50+ what not to do ops on here there wouldn't be 10+ per day people posting about how they f***** up their s4 and asking people who are trying to further development how to fix their new paperweight...also people who brick devices constantly due to not reading are the sole reason secured bootloaders exist...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
only will get worse as 4.4 takes over.......
jamesd1085 said:
Not to be a d***...but if people would read even one of the 50+ what not to do ops on here there wouldn't be 10+ per day people posting about how they f***** up their s4 and asking people who are trying to further development how to fix their new paperweight...also people who brick devices constantly due to not reading are the sole reason secured bootloaders exist...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone works fine, its just using a 3.4.0 kernel with some KOT49H.i545VRUFNC2 build that i dont want. Last time I rooted was on my Droid X, so excuse me if i am a little rusty.
Mistertac said:
Well since you flashed some version of 4.4.2 in Odin of course trying to put 4.3 back on won't work without jumping through some hoops. Check this thread out
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868
You should also check this one out
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2606501
Not having all your exact steps and what led you to hear doesn't help either. Try to be as detailed as possible.. Reading your post again I'm confused.. Is your phone working right now.. As In booting into Android or is it a brick??
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone works fine now. here is my kernel and build info now, on the 4.4.2
Kernel: 3.4.0 [email protected]#1 tue mar 11 20:52:21 KST 2014
Build # KOT 49H.I545VRUFNC2
What i did was simply rooted using saferoot, then i used odin 3.07 to flash a kitkat rom for sch I545. Rebooted and when it came on I noticed i didnt have root access so i wanted to go back to stock. I downloaded a stock 4.3 and odin would fail at the FAIL AUTH part, thus bricking my phone. I then reflashed the 4.4.2 rom and it installed. Ive tried different 4.3 roms, even with a PIT file and it still fails. Like i said it works fine, i would just like to go back to stock 4.3. I think my main problem is that I cant seem to get rooted again and i dont know why. Thanks for helping a n00b!
Armyeclipse said:
My phone works fine, its just using a 3.4.0 kernel with some KOT49H.i545VRUFNC2 build that i dont want. Last time I rooted was on my Droid X, so excuse me if i am a little rusty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey we weren't trying to be jerks.. Just give as many details as you can which led you To here and I'm sure one of us can help.
There's just a lot of people who come on here daily that if they read up a little more they wouldn't be in a tight spot.
If your phone is working fine on the NC2 build but you just rather MK2... then the first link I gave you is a method to downgrade I believe. Now I haven't done it myself but looking at it it's not for the faint of heart and you need to be good with Odin. Maybe start there and ask if in your situation it's even possible to do that .. I'm not 100% as to the steps needed
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Armyeclipse said:
My phone works fine, its just using a 3.4.0 kernel with some KOT49H.i545VRUFNC2 build that i dont want. Last time I rooted was on my Droid X, so excuse me if i am a little rusty.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said...if you had read beforehand you would have know you can't fully revert to 4.3 after flashing that 4.4 image in odin
Update! 4.3 and rooted
I got some help and then i went HERE and now im back on 4.3 with a build of vruemk2. Im also rooted so i made progress. However according the the thread i followed, you have to use some bypasslkm file to get WIFI to work. WTF? i have no idea what im doing. I tried to follow the directions given, by using terminal emulator but i cant figure it out. I cant even find the data/local/tmp folder it says to put the bypasslkm into. Thats where im at now, but something has to be done because i NEED WIFI.
jamesd1085 said:
As I said...if you had read beforehand you would have know you can't fully revert to 4.3 after flashing that 4.4 image in odin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wasn't sure if Surges downgrade method would work here... But I'm assuming since this user seems to have simply Odin the NC2 on his phone rather than the update to NC2 and have root method... That he's SOL for now.
Thanks for clearing it up
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Mistertac said:
I wasn't sure if Surges downgrade method would work here... But I'm assuming since this user seems to have simply Odin the NC2 on his phone rather than the update to NC2 and have root method... That he's SOL for now.
Thanks for clearing it up
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Surges method is meant to fix his situation I believe... But there are as always things that cannot be overwritten...he will be able to switch back to 4.3 but certain things from 4.4 are permanent and I think have caused some issues for those who reverted.
Forget it
Forget this crap, im just gonna sell it back on ebay and get another one.
Armyeclipse said:
Forget this crap, im just gonna sell it back on ebay and get another one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check swappa.com for an MDK base S4 if you want more freedom. They've come down on price quite a bit
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Xparent Skyblue Tapatalk 2