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I have a Samsung Transform Ultra (rooted), I am using the stock ROM that came with the phone, recently I have corrupted something and need to attempt a factory reset, however some people have said that doing a factory reset on a rooted phone could brick it, so this brings a couple of questions:
1.- How would I un-root my phone, or, if un-rooting is not necessary, what steps should I take to factory reset it safely? My data is safely backed up already.
2.- Has anyone done a factory reset on a rooted Transform Ultra?
Any help would be most appreciated.
The4thDoctor said:
I have a Samsung Transform Ultra (rooted), I am using the stock ROM that came with the phone, recently I have corrupted something and need to attempt a factory reset, however some people have said that doing a factory reset on a rooted phone could brick it, so this brings a couple of questions:
1.- How would I un-root my phone, or, if un-rooting is not necessary, what steps should I take to factory reset it safely? My data is safely backed up already.
2.- Has anyone done a factory reset on a rooted Transform Ultra?
Any help would be most appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't you have a custom Recovery installed? I don't know about this device specifically, but there should be a factory reset option you can utilize within your Recovery image. You'll need a ROM to flash afterwards also, otherwise you'll have no OS on your device. Or simply flash a NANDroid backup.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App
Since my (rooted) phone has the stock factory ROM only, and I never changed it, do I still need a ROM? My original ROM was never removed or changed.
The4thDoctor said:
Since my (rooted) phone has the stock factory ROM only, and I never changed it, do I still need a ROM? My original ROM was never removed or changed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well that's the thing, when you factory reset a rooted phone it wipes everything, including the OS. So after a factory reset there will be no ROM to boot into. Even though you've never changed it and you're running stock, you'd still need a copy of that stock ROM (if you wanted to continue running stock). But if you've made a nandroid backup (complete snapshot of your entire system) at some point before you noticed the current problem you're having, it might be easier to simply restore that particular backup via Recovery.
I never flashed any roms or recovery, just rooted.
Unfortunately, I never made a nandroid backup before I had this problem, however, my daughter has an identical phone, could I make such a backup from hers, and use it on my phone, then just delete her settings etc?
I had no idea that just rooting would kill the stock ROM image, making the phone un-recoverable, I thought that rooting only gave me superuser permissions.
The4thDoctor said:
I never flashed any roms or recovery, just rooted.
Unfortunately, I never made a nandroid backup before I had this problem, however, my daughter has an identical phone, could I make such a backup from hers, and use it on my phone, then just delete her settings etc?
I had no idea that just rooting would kill the stock ROM image, making the phone un-recoverable, I thought that rooting only gave me superuser permissions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks like Clockworkmod doesn't support your device.... not sure what custom Recoveries are available for your phone... but rooting doesn't mess up the stock ROM, we (the users) mess up our ROMs. You're right when you said that rooting gives you superuser privileges, and with those privileges come the unfortunate ability to screws stuff up. In my case I have tons of backups and a custom Recovery whereby I can wipe the phone and restore if need be. I also have ADB installed and can use Fastboot commands if things go sideways. Basically if you're gonna root have a backup plan.
Can you perhaps follow an unrooting method? Then you could safely factory reset without losing the OS... you know...the more I think about this, the more I wonder if you could just use the factory reset option from within the phone's settings... on a custom ROM you'd never do it, but in your situation (no custom recovery or ROM) who knows, maybe it would work with a problem.... I'll ask a friend of mine and post back.
Edit: Never heard back, but in your case on the stock ROM without a custom Recovery you *should* be able to factory reset through the Privacy setting section of your settings. If you do lose root, simply re root and you're good to go.
Thanks, Well I am going to give it a try and see what happens, worst case, I will have to buy another phone.
EDIT: I had no problems with factory reset, thank you!
Hello - I didn't like the updates I heard about in the factory 2.3.6 ROM update, so I skipped it. And, I'm rooted.
So, a few questions:
Can I upgrade directly from 2.3.4 to ICS from a rooted phone? Or do I need to step-up to 2.3.6 first?
Do I need to actually unroot before I do any of this?
Can I re-root once I go ICS?
I've heard that the best bet is to do a factory reset after upgrading to ICS. If I do this, is the best bet to do a Titanium Backup app & data backup/restore process? Are there any better solutions to capture all my data that I'd lose with a reset?
Any info/insights greatly appreciated. Note: I have searched far and wide on XDA for answers to these questions, but I could not find any direct answers that made me feel confident enough to move forward. So, any direct response appreciated.
Thx.
Jon
JonDeutsch said:
Hello - I didn't like the updates I heard about in the factory 2.3.6 ROM update, so I skipped it. And, I'm rooted.
So, a few questions:
Can I upgrade directly from 2.3.4 to ICS from a rooted phone? Or do I need to step-up to 2.3.6 first?
Do I need to actually unroot before I do any of this?
Can I re-root once I go ICS?
I've heard that the best bet is to do a factory reset after upgrading to ICS. If I do this, is the best bet to do a Titanium Backup app & data backup/restore process? Are there any better solutions to capture all my data that I'd lose with a reset?
Any info/insights greatly appreciated. Note: I have searched far and wide on XDA for answers to these questions, but I could not find any direct answers that made me feel confident enough to move forward. So, any direct response appreciated.
Thx.
Jon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. yes, you can upgrade straight from 2.3.4 I've done it.
2. you don't need to unroot before - the upgrade will unroot you.
3. your best bet is NOT TO FACTORY RESET AFTER UPGRADE - IT COULD BRICK YOU BECAUSE OF A KNOWN BUG IN FACTORY KERNEL
4. If you want rooted version of upgrade look for the odin.heimdall version the Creepyncrawly put in the development section.
or you could try Semi UCLE5 that i have linked in the signature. It looks like the stock upgrade but it is smoother, among other things.
Good luck!
Jon first of all, you can always upgrade to any new update regardless of your Android version so it's a Yes to your first question. Secondly, whenever you update to a stock ROM your device gets unrooted itself so you'll have to root it again.
Sent from my HTC One X using xda app-developers app
Jack Man & uetfreak - thanks! Great feedback.
A couple follow-on questions for Jack Man:
I've read about the kernel bug, but THANK YOU for reminding me that it would affect a simple factory reset. Yeesh, that's a pretty serious bug when a standard reset could brick a phone. So, one remedy, as you say, is to go with UCLE5. Smoother sounds ideal to me (I've heard that ICS on GS2 is a bit jittery on the homescreens, which totally stinks). But if I go with OCLE5, that's a custom ROM so that means I'll lose the ability to do the OEM upgrade to keep all my apps & data intact, correct?
If that's correct, what's the best way to ensure all my settings, contacts, apps, data can be easily restored on a wiped phone? I have Titanium Backup + Root. I assume I'd keep root with OCLE5? And would I just run a TB restore on apps & data (and not system settings)? Are there any system settings I can backup/restore safely between ROMs/OS versions?
I've never flashed a custom ROM so I don't know how y'all keep all your stuff intact as you switch around!
Thx.
Jon
JonDeutsch said:
Jack Man & uetfreak - thanks! Great feedback.
A couple follow-on questions for Jack Man:
I've read about the kernel bug, but THANK YOU for reminding me that it would affect a simple factory reset. Yeesh, that's a pretty serious bug when a standard reset could brick a phone. So, one remedy, as you say, is to go with UCLE5. Smoother sounds ideal to me (I've heard that ICS on GS2 is a bit jittery on the homescreens, which totally stinks). But if I go with OCLE5, that's a custom ROM so that means I'll lose the ability to do the OEM upgrade to keep all my apps & data intact, correct?
If that's correct, what's the best way to ensure all my settings, contacts, apps, data can be easily restored on a wiped phone? I have Titanium Backup + Root. I assume I'd keep root with OCLE5? And would I just run a TB restore on apps & data (and not system settings)? Are there any system settings I can backup/restore safely between ROMs/OS versions?
I've never flashed a custom ROM so I don't know how y'all keep all your stuff intact as you switch around!
Thx.
Jon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, first, since you have never flashed a custom rom I would suggest reading until you're sick of reading before flashing. It will pay off in the long run. Regarding flashing from 2.3.4 up to Custom UCLE5 and keeping all of your apps and contacts - I'm not sure how that would go, honestly. For me, my contacts and calendar are saved on my computer through MSOutlook and I sync them with MyPhoneExplorer without any problems. Most of the apps I use (which is not a lot at all) I don't bother backing up when I flash roms and wipe data clean. I have backed up some in the past with Titanium Backup (pro version is worth it), but only if I know absolutely that I need the data from them. Otherwise, I have just done fresh installs of apps because I have read so much about people having ROM issues from restoring apps with titanium.
About losing the ability to do the OEM upgrade - If you ever want to you can, it'll just take time, and yes, you would have to wipe data anyway to go back to 2.3.4 then use KIES. Kind of a pain if you ask me. Plus, ask anyone here on custom stuff - once you go with a custom ROM, you won't want to go back to stock - EVER.
Hope this helps. feel free to pm me if you need. I'll be on the road for the next few days. remember - READ as much as you can. start with the "stickies" in the top of the main thread with a little pin on the left.
p.s. one more thing. Get yourself a usb jig. it's only a few buck online. once you start flashing roms you may want to try other ones. If you make a mistake somewhere, a jig can get you out of a jam quick.
Make sure to factory reset after. Ive read many problems with notifications messing up until the reset was done. I've done it no problems. On two seperate s2 i777s. Its always best to do this after a big update to the next version
j510 said:
Make sure to factory reset after. Ive read many problems with notifications messing up until the reset was done. I've done it no problems. On two seperate s2 i777s. Its always best to do this after a big update to the next version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good idea. I do resets if I come from gingerbread too. But I know with this ROM (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1650948) you have to make sure you have the kernel that is based off of the stock kernel - AJ's kernel to safely factory reset. I think you will get a boot loop if you factory reset with the Siyah installed. I could be wrong, but I remember getting a boot loop on mine when I had siyah installed. Maybe it was because i did a reset from settings/back up and reset/factory reset and then formatted the sd card (since I had so much useless crap on there, luckily backed up on my pc).
j510 said:
Make sure to factory reset after. Ive read many problems with notifications messing up until the reset was done. I've done it no problems. On two seperate s2 i777s. Its always best to do this after a big update to the next version
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're kidding right? No do not tell him to factory reset with the stock kernel. If his phone has the big he could burn out his emmc chip. Then he would need to pay mobile tech videos to jtag it.
Sent from my Sony Xperia Ion
you have to flash iOS on your phone first before you can upgrade to cupcake, immediately update to donut before rebooting, then you have to go through eclair, froyo, and you will find yourself at gingerbread. DO NOT REBOOT AFTER FLASHING GINGERBREAD!! you have to flash ICS during the shutdown process....if you miss your cue, you will have to start all over
Hello everyone,
Well might as well say hi. I'm Ryukouki. I use this handle on a lot of forums, so if this is familiar you most likely know me elsewhere. So, anywho! I purchased a VZW Samsung Galaxy S4 two weeks ago, and I'm really curious. I rooted my phone, installed Clockwork Mod and backed up my data (I THINK) and I'm looking into ROMs for the Galaxy S4. What is the best mod for speed and performance, with good ease of use, and does not require a data wipe on installation? And is there a tutorial to go about doing this? I'm kind of new to the whole smartphone thing (used a feature phone for seven years!!), but I'm not too afraid to try new things out.
Ryukouki said:
Hello everyone,
Well might as well say hi. I'm Ryukouki. I use this handle on a lot of forums, so if this is familiar you most likely know me elsewhere. So, anywho! I purchased a VZW Samsung Galaxy S4 two weeks ago, and I'm really curious. I rooted my phone, installed Clockwork Mod and backed up my data (I THINK) and I'm looking into ROMs for the Galaxy S4. What is the best mod for speed and performance, with good ease of use, and does not require a data wipe on installation? And is there a tutorial to go about doing this? I'm kind of new to the whole smartphone thing (used a feature phone for seven years!!), but I'm not too afraid to try new things out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No ROMs 'require' a data wipe per se. You may, however, run into problems with any ROM if you don't completely wipe data when installing (especially the first time you go from stock to a ROM).
Why are you so afraid of wiping data? You could very easily download a few backup apps and have everything back up and running in 20 minutes.
trebb said:
No ROMs 'require' a data wipe per se. You may, however, run into problems with any ROM if you don't completely wipe data when installing (especially the first time you go from stock to a ROM).
Why are you so afraid of wiping data? You could very easily download a few backup apps and have everything back up and running in 20 minutes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I assume that this requires backup to my SD card though? And can you explain how I go about doing this? Do I just pick up things like App Restore and Backup (I think it's the other way around...) and then backup and restore? I don't want to screw this up, because I have a few apps where I've dumped a couple hundred dollars into and if I delete it or wipe it, I lose all the data, and I for sure as hell don't wanna do that!
You are rooted, so grab Titanium Backup, and use it. Just don't backup up system data. App data is fine (at least it always has been on AT&T).
I haven't seen a ROM yet that is stable enough to flash, IMHO. Give it a couple of weeks. I ran AOKP on my GS2 for a long time, and am looking forward to it here.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda premium
If I was you man , I wouldnt never install a rom without a full wipe. That will keep you from running into problems. I know that from experience. Like Sbreen say, no wipe , no gripe
DroidHead214 said:
If I was you man , I wouldnt never install a rom without a full wipe. That will keep you from running into problems. I know that from experience. Like Sbreen say, no wipe , no gripe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very well then, I guess a wipe it is.
Now, let me get this straight. I rooted my phone. I have TWRP Custom Recovery on my phone, and I have backed up the thing in the recovery menu to my micro SD card. I also Titanium Backup'd my system with apps and whatnot. So when I decide to flash my phone to a new ROM, I'd first wipe the data, factory reset, and wipe the dalvik cache, then flash it, do the setup garbage, and then from there, redownload Titanium Backup and restore whatever I want to restore, correct?
Ryukouki said:
Very well then, I guess a wipe it is.
Now, let me get this straight. I rooted my phone. I have TWRP Custom Recovery on my phone, and I have backed up the thing in the recovery menu to my micro SD card. I also Titanium Backup'd my system with apps and whatnot. So when I decide to flash my phone to a new ROM, I'd first wipe the data, factory reset, and wipe the dalvik cache, then flash it, do the setup garbage, and then from there, redownload Titanium Backup and restore whatever I want to restore, correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You got it! However the "factory reset" option in TWRP actually wipes data/cache/dalvik, I believe. (It tells you at the top of the screen what its going to wipe) Once you got your new rom you're all set to start restoring your apps with TB and enjoy the smoothness. After the setup process when your phone goes to the home screen, it's a good idea to let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. (some developers advise this)
whiskerz said:
You got it! However, the "factory reset" option in TWRP actually wipes data/cache/dalvik I believe. (It tells you at the top of the screen what its going to wipe) Once you got your new rom you're all set to start restoring your apps with TB and enjoying the smoothness
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll try it either tomorrow...or, later in the week if my courage decides to run away. Now, in the worst case scenario, let's say I completely screw up and get stuck with a bootloop or, I just completely hate the ROM itself. To restore to my current configuration do I just go back to TWRP and hit restore, and it basically reverts itself? I'm so sorry if I'm asking really stupid questions, I just REALLY want to do it right, and not have any hassles whatsoever. I am extremely careful and I really want to feel comfortable doing this.
Some guides I see mentioned backing up the IMEI information on the phone. Do I really need to do that, or is that all automated and I shouldn't run into issues? And is there a GApps.zip file thingy that I need to download for the "stock" applications? But wait a second, TB should take care of all of that correct?
Ryukouki said:
I'll try it either tomorrow...or, later in the week if my courage decides to run away. Now, in the worst case scenario, let's say I completely screw up and get stuck with a bootloop or, I just completely hate the ROM itself. To restore to my current configuration do I just go back to TWRP and hit restore, and it basically reverts itself? I'm so sorry if I'm asking really stupid questions, I just REALLY want to do it right, and not have any hassles whatsoever. I am extremely careful and I really want to feel comfortable doing this.
Some guides I see mentioned backing up the IMEI information on the phone. Do I really need to do that, or is that all automated and I shouldn't run into issues? And is there a GApps.zip file thingy that I need to download for the "stock" applications? But wait a second, TB should take care of all of that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, if your phone goes into a bootloop or you absolutely hate the rom, then pull the battery and boot into recovery. (If you just hate the rom no need to pull battery just power off)Make sure you have a backup of your system created within TWRP with the "backup" option. If you have a backup in TWRP you would just hit the "Restore" button and find your system backup and wait for it to restore. I've never heard anything about backing up IMEI info, you will probably not run into any issues. I've flashed tons and tons of roms on numerous devices and have NEVER had to do any of that. Gapps (google apps) are ONLY needed when you're going to run an AOSP rom. That means when the rom doesn't have the touchwiz skin over top of it. AOSP roms are pure vanilla android and have zero touchwiz features. You can find the touchwiz based roms in the "Android development" section while the AOSP roms are found in the "Original development" section. Also, it's fine to ask questions. That's how you learn!
whiskerz said:
Yes, if your phone goes into a bootloop or you absolutely hate the rom, then pull the battery and boot into recovery. (If you just hate the rom no need to pull battery just power off)Make sure you have a backup of your system created within TWRP with the "backup" option. If you have a backup in TWRP you would just hit the "Restore" button and find your system backup and wait for it to restore. I've never heard anything about backing up IMEI info, you will probably not run into any issues. I've flashed tons and tons of roms on numerous devices and have NEVER had to do any of that. Gapps (google apps) are ONLY needed when you're going to run an AOSP rom. That means when the rom doesn't have the touchwiz skin over top of it. AOSP roms are pure vanilla android and have zero touchwiz features. You can find the touchwiz based roms in the "Android development" section while the AOSP roms are found in the "Original development" section. Also, it's fine to ask questions. That's how you learn!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome. Phew, I was like what why do I need to backup my IMEI information? I'm planning on installing Hyperdrive, is that a touchwiz based rom by any chance? And hah, yeah I know, I usually have really meticulous instructions for myself when I flash video game consoles, so I know the routine like the back of my hand.
Ryukouki said:
Awesome. Phew, I was like what why do I need to backup my IMEI information? I'm planning on installing Hyperdrive, is that a touchwiz based rom by any chance? And hah, yeah I know, I usually have really meticulous instructions for myself when I flash video game consoles, so I know the routine like the back of my hand.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, Hyperdrive is a touchwiz based rom! The file is going to be a little over a 1gig, and already includes all of the apps you'll need.(Don't flash Gaaps) I'm heading off XDA for the night if you have anymore questions/concerns feel free to PM me and I'll try to help
whiskerz said:
Yes, Hyperdrive is a touchwiz based rom! The file is going to be a little over a 1gig, and already includes all of the apps you'll need.(Don't flash Gaaps) I'm heading off XDA for the night if you have anymore questions/concerns feel free to PM me and I'll try to help
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh good! And at least my internet is reasonable now, so 1GB shouldn't be too bad. ;D I should head off too, its a bit late over here. Thanks for your help, you've answered a lot of my concerns!
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All ROMs are the best and data wipes are always recommended
Forgive my novice status with both my first Android phone and this site. Galaxy S6 which I rooted using Odin and I believe a kernel it was, from here.
If I run the os upgrade from Smartswitch, what effect will that have one the phone as far as being rooted and all the stuff I've done since being rooted. Thank you very much.
If you update, you will lose root. I would not update via Smart Switch, being that you are rooted with a custom kernel. Your best bet would be to update via Odin. Check the subforum here @ xda for your variant of the S6 for further info. You should find what you need in the General forum of that subforum.
es0tericcha0s said:
If you update, you will lose root. I would not update via Smart Switch, being that you are rooted with a custom kernel. Your best bet would be to update via Odin. Check the subforum here @ xda for your variant of the S6 for further info. You should find what you need in the General forum of that subforum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you sir. Is it simply a matter rerooting the device? Or will every other change I made from root be gone too?
It will wipe your phone, so you will have to redo any mods or settings.
es0tericcha0s said:
It will wipe your phone, so you will have to redo any mods or settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It wipes the phone every time you do an operating system update? Why would anybody ever do it unless something wasn't working? Unless it's only when rooted? I have good pc skills and some understanding of Linux even, but man I have a lot to learn about these phones.. What about Smart Switch backups? It wipes the phone, how close to before the update will that get somebody? I don't have time to research all this. I may just leave it. This update I'm talking about is a gigabyte btw. That seems pretty huge for a phone.
It wipes the phone when you update via Odin (unless modded by a dev to not wipe for some versions). The reason that this needs to be done is that when you are rooted and have changed system files, OTA updates usually cause issues like bootloops / soft brick. Typically when you have a Samsung with a modded kernel and system, the regular Samsung tools like Kies and Smart Switch fail. Your results may vary, but I would have the firmware downloaded to reload via Odin in case that does not work. I am not familar with Smart Switch as it just came out for the S6 and newer stuff and I have never had use for Samsung's tools like that because I prefer to use Google and Titanium Backup to backup and restore my apps, contacts, texts, call logs, etc. As far as the updates go, 1 GB is actually kind of small for newer versions. It's probably bigger once unzipped. Some newer phones have systems that are well over 2 GBs. Most people here usually update via custom rom as it's easy to do on the phone once you have a working custom recovery and doing a factory reset there will not wipe the internal storage @ /data/media. If you prefer to be stock rooted, there most likely is a version already posted in the subforum for your phone. If you are updating whole Android versions and not minor updates, it might be required to install additional firmware files with Odin or Chainfire's Flashfire tool. If so, the developer will mention that in the OP of the thread.
es0tericcha0s said:
It wipes the phone when you update via Odin (unless modded by a dev to not wipe for some versions). The reason that this needs to be done is that when you are rooted and have changed system files, OTA updates usually cause issues like bootloops / soft brick. Typically when you have a Samsung with a modded kernel and system, the regular Samsung tools like Kies and Smart Switch fail. Your results may vary, but I would have the firmware downloaded to reload via Odin in case that does not work. I am not familar with Smart Switch as it just came out for the S6 and newer stuff and I have never had use for Samsung's tools like that because I prefer to use Google and Titanium Backup to backup and restore my apps, contacts, texts, call logs, etc. As far as the updates go, 1 GB is actually kind of small for newer versions. It's probably bigger once unzipped. Some newer phones have systems that are well over 2 GBs. Most people here usually update via custom rom as it's easy to do on the phone once you have a working custom recovery and doing a factory reset there will not wipe the internal storage @ /data/media. If you prefer to be stock rooted, there most likely is a version already posted in the subforum for your phone. If you are updating whole Android versions and not minor updates, it might be required to install additional firmware files with Odin or Chainfire's Flashfire tool. If so, the developer will mention that in the OP of the thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It just occurred to me. Firmware IS the Android OS on these phones. That's not the same as a kernel though? With the regular Linux os it isn't. Forgive my ignorance. Like I say this is my first one.
Unfortunalely, firmware is one of those terms that can mean a few different things depending on the situation (like flashing). Firmware in this instance refers to the bootloader and modem files as well for Samsungs. If you don't have the bootloader and modem files (which roms do not install) correctly matched to the OS then you might have issues like not being able to boot or cell service issues.
es0tericcha0s said:
It wipes the phone when you update via Odin (unless modded by a dev to not wipe for some versions). The reason that this needs to be done is that when you are rooted and have changed system files, OTA updates usually cause issues like bootloops / soft brick. Typically when you have a Samsung with a modded kernel and system, the regular Samsung tools like Kies and Smart Switch fail. Your results may vary, but I would have the firmware downloaded to reload via Odin in case that does not work. I am not familar with Smart Switch as it just came out for the S6 and newer stuff and I have never had use for Samsung's tools like that because I prefer to use Google and Titanium Backup to backup and restore my apps, contacts, texts, call logs, etc. As far as the updates go, 1 GB is actually kind of small for newer versions. It's probably bigger once unzipped. Some newer phones have systems that are well over 2 GBs. Most people here usually update via custom rom as it's easy to do on the phone once you have a working custom recovery and doing a factory reset there will not wipe the internal storage @ /data/media. If you prefer to be stock rooted, there most likely is a version already posted in the subforum for your phone. If you are updating whole Android versions and not minor updates, it might be required to install additional firmware files with Odin or Chainfire's Flashfire tool. If so, the developer will mention that in the OP of the thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I'm wondering is if there's any to have this galaxy s6 just like it is now after many hours of tweaking after one of these updates. I couldn't make heads or tails out of Titanium update.
You are being very helpful sir. Thank you.
Depends on what tweaks you've done and which update that it is. If it is a minor security update, then usually someone will post a flashable via custom recovery version and often you can get away with installing that over your current system while just wiping cache and dalvik cache. If it is a major update, like when Marshmallow comes out, it would benefit you to do a factory reset before updating. Yea, it sucks having to set up your phone again, though with all the tools available, it's really not that bad, but better to start fresh instead of wondering if the phone is slow or buggy because you didn't.
es0tericcha0s said:
Depends on what tweaks you've done and which update that it is. If it is a minor security update, then usually someone will post a flashable via custom recovery version and often you can get away with installing that over your current system while just wiping cache and dalvik cache. If it is a major update, like when Marshmallow comes out, it would benefit you to do a factory reset before updating. Yea, it sucks having to set up your phone again, though with all the tools available, it's really not that bad, but better to start fresh instead of wondering if the phone is slow or buggy because you didn't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're making sense. I totally get it. (about starting from scratch) Can I then re-root it with the same UniKernel-v5-920P-072715.tar as before or will I need a new one of those too.? Thanks again.
This is the update SmartSwitch is telling me is available. I don't even know which of this stuff we've been discussing this is. Firmware, ROM or OS update.
Current version: PDA:0H1 / CSC:0H1/ PHONE:0H1 (SPR)
Latest version: PDA:011 / CSC:011 / PHONE:011 (SPR)
Size: 1612 MB
That's just a minor security update. I would not use that kernel to reroot. I believe the only option available for the update you are on and the update that is available is via TWRP + SuperSU zip.
es0tericcha0s said:
That's just a minor security update. I would not use that kernel to reroot. I believe the only option available for the update you are on and the update that is available is via TWRP + SuperSU zip.
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Click to collapse
Whatsa TWRP + SuperSU zip Is that a tool and file for getting this update?
Sorry man. I've had this phone for less than 2 months and it's my very first one.
I do appreciate your patience. I've been a PC support guy for 16 years. I know what it's like.
TWRP = Team Win Recovery Project. It replaces the stock recovery that the phone uses to perform factory resets and updates signed by Samsung. This allows you multiple benefits such as complete system/data/kernel backups, being able to wipe any combo of system/data/caches/internal storage, factory data reset without wiping internal storage, terminal commands, and installing custom files, roms, mods, etc not signed by Samsung to name a few. SuperSU is the popular root binary and root permissions app made by the developer Chainfire. If you needs links, I can provide, but assuming you're familiar with Googling things being a support guy. ☺
es0tericcha0s said:
TWRP = Team Win Recovery Project. It replaces the stock recovery that the phone uses to perform factory resets and updates signed by Samsung. This allows you multiple benefits such as complete system/data/kernel backups, being able to wipe any combo of system/data/caches/internal storage, factory data reset without wiping internal storage, terminal commands, and installing custom files, roms, mods, etc not signed by Samsung to name a few. SuperSU is the popular root binary and root permissions app made by the developer Chainfire. If you needs links, I can provide, but assuming you're familiar with Googling things being a support guy.
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Click to collapse
I have SuperSU already.
These are some truly terrible directions unless you already know enough to not need them.
https://twrp.me/devices/samsunggalaxys6sprint.html
Will installing TWRP effect the root method I've already used?
Will installing recovery effect any of the multitude of configurations I've already done?
Does this then allow manual installs of OTA updates without losing root or any of your configuration customizations?
Is it JUST the recovery partition were dealing which stands alone from the os?
Does Nandroid backup then encompass the recovery and os and rom etc? Meaning are they all backed up and custom recovery via TWRP was what made that possible? Or do you have to make your current config the recovery itself in order to do a ghost style backup and restore if you jack yourself up later? OR is not even this a ghost style restore?
Maybe it's just me, but the terminology is very confusing and I can't make heads or tails of what I'm even talking about with all this.
Tried to make backup with TWRP...
I guess whatever I flashed it with last time won't let it boot into recovery or the bootloader or whatever it's called. If I tell TWRP manager to reboot and do backup it just goes to the menu for rebooting and wiping cache etc. If I specifically go to "reboot to bootloader" it just reboots into android. I went to install a custom recovery and it said that if the location for the recovery is wrong it could brick the phone. I have no idea if it's right or wrong or if the root method I've already used is effecting this or not.
Installing a custom recovery will not affect your OS or any settings (as long as the recovery version is compatible with your phone and update). It is installed in a different partition than where the OS resides. It will not let you install official OTA zips. It is only for installing files not directly signed with Samsung's special key. When you do a nandroid backup, it will give you options on which parts of the phone you would like to backup. The important ones are boot, system, data, and EFS (though this is not typically needed when you restore, just as a precaution because it holds important data and settings of your IMEI and such - only restore if needed). Boot is the kernel, which controls many drivers for stuff like wifi, BT, CPU and GPU processes as well as others. System contains preloaded software, as in if you just restored boot and system, it would be like you factory reset the device and would need to setup your accounts and settings. Data is the apps, data, settings you have changed or added. A factory reset in the stock recovery would also wipe your /data/media storage which your phone sees as your internal storage. TWRP allows a factory reset that skips this so you will not lose the stuff you have accumulated on the phone such as pictures, music, downloads, etc.
The reason that when you are using TWRP Manager to install the recovery and reboot to it and it is still stock is probably due to the system has a script built in that notices if you change the recovery and will rewrite the stock recovery back to it upon rebooting. You can avoid this by renaming the script with a root enabled file browser. You will find this script in /system/etc/install-recovery.sh (or something similar). Just rename it to something like install-recovery.sh.bak.
es0tericcha0s said:
Installing a custom recovery will not affect your OS or any settings (as long as the recovery version is compatible with your phone and update). It is installed in a different partition than where the OS resides. It will not let you install official OTA zips. It is only for installing files not directly signed with Samsung's special key. When you do a nandroid backup, it will give you options on which parts of the phone you would like to backup. The important ones are boot, system, data, and EFS (though this is not typically needed when you restore, just as a precaution because it holds important data and settings of your IMEI and such - only restore if needed). Boot is the kernel, which controls many drivers for stuff like wifi, BT, CPU and GPU processes as well as others. System contains preloaded software, as in if you just restored boot and system, it would be like you factory reset the device and would need to setup your accounts and settings. Data is the apps, data, settings you have changed or added. A factory reset in the stock recovery would also wipe your /data/media storage which your phone sees as your internal storage. TWRP allows a factory reset that skips this so you will not lose the stuff you have accumulated on the phone such as pictures, music, downloads, etc.
The reason that when you are using TWRP Manager to install the recovery and reboot to it and it is still stock is probably due to the system has a script built in that notices if you change the recovery and will rewrite the stock recovery back to it upon rebooting. You can avoid this by renaming the script with a root enabled file browser. You will find this script in /system/etc/install-recovery.sh (or something similar). Just rename it to something like install-recovery.sh.bak.
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Click to collapse
You sir, are one patient and helpful man I very much appreciate your suffering through my whining. Interestingly, the boot loop just stopped in it's own and now I have the TWRP interface in place of the stock menu where the option was to wipe the cache partition.
Does this THIS mean I have a custom recovery now? Meaning, a different restore image than the one that came with the phone? Or does this now let me install that?
About this....
You were saying up HERE that if I run this update with smart switch I would lose root, but if I use TWRP to do it, I won't? Is that right? Thanks again.
Tiribulus said:
You sir, are one patient and helpful man I very much appreciate your suffering through my whining. Interestingly, the boot loop just stopped in it's own and now I have the TWRP interface in place of the stock menu where the option was to wipe the cache partition.
Does this THIS mean I have a custom recovery now? Meaning, a different restore image than the one that came with the phone? Or does this now let me install that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This should mean that the recovery is installed. You can verify by using the app to boot to recovery or via powering the phone on by holding the Power, Volume Up, and Home buttons together as you restart. You should notice a recovery booting message in the top left and then you can let go of the buttons. Once there, you should perform a backup of the boot, system, and data partitions. If you have an EFS option, I would back that up too for safe keeping. It's rare that it would get corrupted, but best to have a backup just in cause.
If you update via Smart Switch, you will definitely lose root, as well as TWRP. Most likely, a developer has posted a rooted version of the update that you can use TWRP to install.
So I was looking into this a little closer for you and realized that the preferred method of updating and rooting the update you are trying to get involves using Odin to install the full update package, then reflashing TWRP, and using a newer version of the kernel to root. However, from some of the user comments about it, it seems like it might be better to wait till Samsung has released the source code of the kernel for the OI1 update. The kernels based on the slightly older 5.1.1 builds will work, but some people were experiencing random issues such as reboots or other oddities. I don't think OI1 has anything in it that would be worth losing root over or possibly having things run oddly. The alternative would be to update via a rom like this http://forum.xda-developers.com/spr...ment/ram9200-ofe-rom-thread-v3-5-1-1-t3173417
I have searched far and wide for a way to get around this, but it's shocked me how difficult it is to find somewhat trustworthy information.
I recently rooted my I337 while on 5.0 and then 5.1 with Kingroot. Unfortunately, it would sometimes require me to root again if I had to reboot. No harm done, its 3 minutes out of my life and I couldn't find an easy solution besides using another program (and nothing else worked for this model, i tried). Not long ago, I had to reboot, and when it was booting again, I got what appears to be a soft-brick: "System software not authorized by att was found on the phone". Now, I have a couple of options. Back up my ENTIRE phone data and wipe the system normally, or the option I was hoping for - Flashing a stock rom with Odin or a similar software without losing any data. This issue is obviously found with the OS, so if I can replace the OS without losing data, my problem is solved with little-to-no effort. Most tutorials I have found, however, are for 4.x.x devices, very outdated, or don't apply to my specific issue. I'm trying to be careful because I DON'T want to break my phone long term; I could've probably attempted one of these but don't want to without proper technical expertise that I don't have.
If there are any other details needed, I will get back quickly. I'm 5.1 on i337 and want to flash a stock OS without losing data. Should be easy, but I'm stupid and overly cautious.
EDIT: I really don't care if I'm reinstalling 4.2 or whatever on my phone, since I can re-upgrade immediately afterwards and it becomes irrelevant. If this is untrue, let me know, but I don't need to use a 5.x Rom iirc.
Edit2: Continuing to research and found that flashing the original stock Rom will not wipe any data...Even if its from a different version. I'm already in the process of downloading a stock i337 rom with 4.4.2, but I want to verify that it won't wipe my data, so if anybody can confirm this for me, that would be great.