HELP - First time to root my Z2 - Xperia Z2 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hey Guys,
So I just bought a Z2 with Android 4.4.4, and after a lot of reading I understood that there is no "one click" rooting option for it and that I have to downgrade first and then flash a rooted ROM.
The thing is I checked all the the current threads and they are somewhat very hard to follow through and a little bit made to advanced users
Topics like: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/general/4-4-4-creating-rooted-update-package-t2933155
So sometimes midway they skip a step or dont explain how did they reach there (specially after step 9 in the above tutorial)
I know I am asking too much, but will someone walk me through how to root my locked boot loader phone ?
FW: 23.0.1.a0.167
Thank you very much

There are 2 ways to root
Safe way which is this way which includes downgrading and having to reset your device twice
Or the easy way which is unlocking your bootloader (losing your TA and DRM Dependant features) flashing a custom kernel + recovery
You cant root at all without losing data

Hi mate
I suggest you to try this method first
http://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/giefroot-rooting-tool-cve-2014-4322-t3011598
It doesn't work for me and if it doesn't work for you too we can talk to the author to support our devices
with my best regards
a.hamameh

Hey Mate , Thank you for your reply
I have tried it but it didnt work, it says my "phone isnt vunerable", I have sent to author waiting his reply.
If you have any other pointers for me that would be great !
a.hamameh96 said:
Hi mate
I suggest you to try this method first
http://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/giefroot-rooting-tool-cve-2014-4322-t3011598
It doesn't work for me and if it doesn't work for you too we can talk to the author to support our devices
with my best regards
a.hamameh
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

I have also the same error now we are sure that our devices are not supported yet I think he needs some informations about the kernel.
I sent him message and I got a reply but he thought that I have 4.4.2.
He told me that he is busy.
I sent another message and I'm waiting his reply.
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk

Then How to do it even with losing data, but not losing the original FTF ?
Again sorry for being a noob
Envious_Data said:
There are 2 ways to root
Safe way which is this way which includes downgrading and having to reset your device twice
Or the easy way which is unlocking your bootloader (losing your TA and DRM Dependant features) flashing a custom kernel + recovery
You cant root at all without losing data
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

hoooka said:
Hey Guys,
So I just bought a Z2 with Android 4.4.4, and after a lot of reading I understood that there is no "one click" rooting option for it and that I have to downgrade first and then flash a rooted ROM.
The thing is I checked all the the current threads and they are somewhat very hard to follow through and a little bit made to advanced users
Topics like: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/general/4-4-4-creating-rooted-update-package-t2933155
So sometimes midway they skip a step or dont explain how did they reach there (specially after step 9 in the above tutorial)
I know I am asking too much, but will someone walk me through how to root my locked boot loader phone ?
FW: 23.0.1.a0.167
Thank you very much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not too complicated, but im sure its 100% safe. The step only required downgrade and then install the pre-rooted rom. If you know how to flash with flashtool, then this is not a big problem. Before you begin, please make sure you understand each step that you gonna do. This is how actually i do.
1. Download all files required(ftf, rooting tools, prf creator, recovery, etc)
2. Make the pre-rooted rom first.(i just skip that step 11)
3. Flash the stock .314
4. Root & recovery it.
5. Insert that pre-rooted ftf that i made early, in my case i also use a stock rom .167
6. Reboot and finish.

I've rooted Xperia Z before and I'm sure it was much easier. I'd like to root my Z2 but it's much more complicated. I mean I know how to use flash tools, but I'm a bit lost when it comes to drm keys. Is it possible to root and unroot if needed so Sony won't know if anything goes wrong ? Does your method involve drm backup?
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app

ka1eid said:
I've rooted Xperia Z before and I'm sure it was much easier. I'd like to root my Z2 but it's much more complicated. I mean I know how to use flash tools, but I'm a bit lost when it comes to drm keys. Is it possible to root and unroot if needed so Sony won't know if anything goes wrong ? Does your method involve drm backup?
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This method doesnt require to unlock bootloader, its safe. Backup drm key can only be done after u root your device.
Sent from my D6503

yuskhayru said:
This method doesnt require to unlock bootloader, its safe. Backup drm key can only be done after u root your device.
Sent from my D6503
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app

ka1eid said:
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure.
Sent from my D6503

ka1eid said:
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes root doesn't harm your DRM keys only unlocking the bootloader will do that and here are so manybthreads howto get root on locked bootloader, just search before posting and read the rules !!
Sent From Somewhere On Earth With My Z2 ^^

ka1eid said:
So I can root without losing drm? Just making sure.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes rooting doesn't Unlock your bootloader so no loss of DRM keys. Its theoretically impossible to hard brick a locked boot loader Z2.

Related

[Q] I need a lot of advice... thanks for looking

Hi people. This is my 3rd android device. Two samsung products, and now the Z ultra.
So I have no idea what people are talking about... I'm used to ODIN... so is flashtool a similar piece of software?
My xperia Z hasn't arrived yet, Im just trying to get my head around sony and the way their devices are run..
So.. questions...
1. Backup your TA partition (I read that this has important info that I don't want to loose... Do i do this with flashtool? Do i also reflash this partition at a later date?)
2. Unlock your bootloader (Why are some people not unlocking bootloader... Do I understand correctly that some features will stop working... like x-reality?? If so, can't they just be reactivated with a custom ROM?)
3. I see there is a recovery for locked bootloaders... (can you still flash kernel's custom ROM's zips using CWM with a locked bootloader?)
Ive spent 3 days looking on the threads here, but I think because of my previous devices I have a preconceived idea of what i should be doing.. I'm confused.
hamdogg said:
Hi people. This is my 3rd android device. Two samsung products, and now the Z ultra.
So I have no idea what people are talking about... I'm used to ODIN... so is flashtool a similar piece of software???
My xperia Z hasn't arrived yet, Im just trying to get my head around sony and the way their devices are run..
So.. questions...
1. Backup your TA partition (I read that this has important info that I don't want to loose... Do i do this with flashtool?? Do i also reflash this partition at a later date?)
2. Unlock your bootloader (Why are some people not unlocking bootloader... Do I understand correctly that some features will stop working... like x-reality?? If so, can't they just be reactivated with a custom ROM?)
3. I see there is a recovery for locked bootloaders... (can you still flash kernel's custom ROM's zips using CWM with a locked bootloader?)
Ive spent 3 days looking on the threads here, but I think because of my previous devices I have a preconceived idea of what i should be doing.. I'm confused.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh thanks god!! I have been waiting for someone to ask... I didn't want to get labeled as a noob! :b
greggCc said:
Oh thanks god!! I have been waiting for someone to ask... I didn't want to get labeled as a noob! :b
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now everyone knows you're a n00b!
First of all, the minus of unlocking bootloader is losing your DRM keys. To do this, sony has provided us an official way through their website (just google it). Or you can do this via flashtool too. After unlocking, you will lose xreality engine and won't get FW update from sony anymore through official means (pcc or ota, but you can always flash). Some says trackID will be lost, too, but hey, who use it anyway?
The plus is, you entered godmode for flashing anything into your phone.
Unlocked bootloader can be relocked through flashtool, but relocked is not the same as locked, because xreality is still lost, cmiiw. To restore to original locked state, use backupTA (search thread in xda) BEFORE unlocking bootloader. And backupTA needs root, so we need root w/o unlock bootloader first (already plenty in other threads).
And yeah, what a maze this is.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Now everyone knows you're a n00b!
First of all, the minus of unlocking bootloader is losing your DRM keys. To do this, sony has provided us an official way through their website (just google it). Or you can do this via flashtool too. After unlocking, you will lose xreality engine and won't get FW update from sony anymore through official means (pcc or ota, but you can always flash). Some says trackID will be lost, too, but hey, who use it anyway?
The plus is, you entered godmode for flashing anything into your phone.
Unlocked bootloader can be relocked through flashtool, but relocked is not the same as locked, because xreality is still lost, cmiiw. To restore to original locked state, use backupTA (search thread in xda) BEFORE unlocking bootloader. And backupTA needs root, so we need root w/o unlock bootloader first (already plenty in other threads).
And yeah, what a maze this is.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok thanks, that confirmed what i thought about bootloader..
Can you still flash VIA CWM with a locked bootloader?
otherwise as i understand it...
1) root device
2) backup TA parition
3) unlock bootloader
4) flash ROM/kernel/etc
5) reflash TA partition.
done... custom ROM with x-reality support?
hamdogg said:
Ok thanks, that confirmed what i thought about bootloader..
Can you still flash VIA CWM with a locked bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Limited options. Most ROMs required unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Limited options. Most ROMs required unlocked bootloader.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so there will be some ROM's that don't require an unlocked bootloader??
Why are not all ROM's like this, then x-reality / track ID's would not be a problem...
hamdogg said:
so there will be some ROM's that don't require an unlocked bootloader??
Why are not all ROM's like this, then x-reality / track ID's would not be a problem...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it's harder to make, apparently. Currently even custom recovery for locked bootloader is not finished yet. Check the development section. And flashing things that normally isn't allowed on locked does have limitations, check in other xperia devices threads.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
unk_damnation said:
Well it's harder to make, apparently. Currently even custom recovery for locked bootloader is not finished yet. Check the development section. And flashing things that normally isn't allowed on locked does have limitations, check in other xperia devices threads.
Sent from my C6802 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok... say I have flashed a ROM... i can then flash the TA partition and then I have that ROM with x-reality working?
hamdogg said:
ok... say I have flashed a ROM... i can then flash the TA partition and then I have that ROM with x-reality working?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually on firmware .510 with unlocked bootloader and I still have Xreality. Making your Ta backup is mainly to be able to restore your device in case of softbrick or restore your phone to stock.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
bASKOU said:
Actually on firmware .510 with unlocked bootloader and I still have Xreality. Making your Ta backup is mainly to be able to restore your device in case of softbrick or restore your phone to stock.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read that members running 510 have the reality box to check, but most say it doesn't make a difference, and that its not working in the album
hamdogg said:
I read that members running 510 have the reality box to check, but most say it doesn't make a difference, and that its not working in the album
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right i don't see difference on album. But I see it on videos.
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
I am looking at getting the phone too. From what I understand is when your bootloader is locked, it will only load signed boot partitions. So any modification to the boot partition outside of the official stock kernel will not boot when locked. So installing any custom kernel (OC/UV/etc) with stock rom needs unlocked bootloader, or installing CM (which has it's own kernel anyway). So best is getting custom roms (only modified system) with stock kernel.
Also like already said, unlocked bootloader means no updates from Sony. I would backup TA at all costs anyway.
I doubt stock kernel supports kexec, but I guess you can hack the system init process to load different ramdisks. Which is why I guess they are having trouble with locked bootloaders with recovery ramdisks in the dev forum.
I am waiting for the C6806. Here are my plans:
1. Root using vroot (hope it doesn't infect TA with something ;o)
2. Backup TA Partition
3. Unlock
4. Deal with loss of DRM
5. Install whatever ROM/kernel for daily usage
6. (maybe make official TWRP)
7. Get official updates by restoring TA partition, stock kernel if necessary
or...
1. Root using vroot
2. Backup TA Paritition
3. Stick with stock kernel
4. Help with getting locked 2nd ramdisk working with stock init
5. Is the stock ROM awesome enough? (Not sure since we don't have 4.3 )
Also hoping info comes out about ATT bootloader soon on Note 3.
LTE phone is out by 9/25 I am thinking with US warranty support. (C6806)
bigbiff said:
I am looking at getting the phone too. From what I understand is when your bootloader is locked, it will only load signed boot partitions. So any modification to the boot partition outside of the official stock kernel will not boot when locked. So installing any custom kernel (OC/UV/etc) with stock rom needs unlocked bootloader, or installing CM (which has it's own kernel anyway). So best is getting custom roms (only modified system) with stock kernel.
Also like already said, unlocked bootloader means no updates from Sony. I would backup TA at all costs anyway.
I doubt stock kernel supports kexec, but I guess you can hack the system init process to load different ramdisks. Which is why I guess they are having trouble with locked bootloaders with recovery ramdisks in the dev forum.
I am waiting for the C6806. Here are my plans:
1. Root using vroot (hope it doesn't infect TA with something ;o)
2. Backup TA Partition
3. Unlock
4. Deal with loss of DRM
5. Install whatever ROM/kernel for daily usage
6. (maybe make official TWRP)
7. Get official updates by restoring TA partition, stock kernel if necessary
or...
1. Root using vroot
2. Backup TA Paritition
3. Stick with stock kernel
4. Help with getting locked 2nd ramdisk working with stock init
5. Is the stock ROM awesome enough? (Not sure since we don't have 4.3 )
Also hoping info comes out about ATT bootloader soon on Note 3.
LTE phone is out by 9/25 I am thinking with US warranty support. (C6806)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your thoughts biff...
I was also going to wait for the LTE version, however only two cities have it in my country, and I rarely travel to them, and the added price made be think again...
Thanks to all for their contributions on this thread especially op for having the balls to expose his new noob levels I'm coming from Samsung note and this has helped put things in perspective.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
SpyderTracks said:
Thanks to all for their contributions on this thread especially op for having the balls to expose his new noob levels I'm coming from Samsung note and this has helped put things in perspective.
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol nobody should be ashamed to be a noob. We are all noobs to some extend, we learn and improve. I am a big noob on Sony devices as well and a huge noob when it come to development hahahhaa
Sent from my C6802 using Tapatalk 4
I've just ordered mine, should be delivered day after tomorrow. Wait is almost over!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
SpyderTracks said:
I've just ordered mine, should be delivered day after tomorrow. Wait is almost over!
Sent from my GT-N7000 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
haha.. no problem!
I know samsung devices very well, and am no noob there.. But sony... yes, I know basically nothing. We all have to start somewhere.. :silly:
hamdogg said:
haha.. no problem!
I know samsung devices very well, and am no noob there.. But sony... yes, I know basically nothing. We all have to start somewhere.. :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Jeez, this is a nice phone!
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium HD app
SpyderTracks said:
Jeez, this is a nice phone!
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my wait is nearly over... customs called... gotta pay import duty (ARSE!!!)
but will have it Monday... Boom!!

[Q] .257 root

I'm a total Sony noob. I ditched the galaxy note line and my beloved galaxy mega in return for my xperia ultra. Stupidly I let it update to the latest firmware (. 257) now it seems I'm stuck without a root method. I've searched around xda and it seems the only way to root my ultra is to unlock the bootloader wiping my drm keys from the ta partition. So I have the choice between having root or having x reality, Sony apps and a warrantee. Can someone please confirm if this is correct? is or will there be another way?
Android without root may as well be ios and I don't want to have to get out the mega and demote my ultra to 'work phone' status
Thanks, James
This might be correct at the present time. Previously in your situation we were doing this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2502185. However i believe Vroot has been pulled, at least for now, due to potentially beimg malware. Haven't heard any news on that for a while now tho.
Sent from my C6802 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
lmemma16 said:
This might be correct at the present time. Previously in your situation we were doing this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2502185. However i believe Vroot has been pulled, at least for now, due to potentially beimg malware. Haven't heard any news on that for a while now tho.
Sent from my C6802 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. I thought an unlocked bootloader was required to downgrade but I'm not really concerned about the vroot imei harvesting so i would be willing to give this a try.
jazjaz92 said:
Thank you. I thought an unlocked bootloader was required to downgrade but I'm not really concerned about the vroot imei harvesting so i would be willing to give this a try.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, i thought the same thing at first but Sony is cool and you can downgrade with a locked bootloader, lol
Sent from my C6802 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
jazjaz92 said:
I'm a total Sony noob. I ditched the galaxy note line and my beloved galaxy mega in return for my xperia ultra. Stupidly I let it update to the latest firmware (. 257) now it seems I'm stuck without a root method. I've searched around xda and it seems the only way to root my ultra is to unlock the bootloader wiping my drm keys from the ta partition. So I have the choice between having root or having x reality, Sony apps and a warrantee. Can someone please confirm if this is correct? is or will there be another way?
Android without root may as well be ios and I don't want to have to get out the mega and demote my ultra to 'work phone' status
Thanks, James
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi James,
Let me give you the 411 on Sony devices.
Firstly Sony devices are almost impossible to brick. The only real way to brick your phone is to try and do an update when the battery is at 10% or something, and the battery goes totally flat.
(then it wont be able to hold charge, so will basically be a SD storage device that cannot retain information)
Unlocking bootloader- This is something you will probably want to do, but at a later date. The only real advantage of this is that modified kernels and ROM's can be flashed. At the moment x-reality isn't lost when you unlock your bootloader. But track ID is lost.
- You can undo this
Root - It's highly unlikely that IMEI numbers were harvested. They were ready, but we don't know anything else.
- You can undo root
Backing up your TA partition - (done after Rooting) This is done so if something goes wrong, then you are able to re-flash your TA partition, and restore your device back to stock, and still be covered under your warranty. Inside this partition, is a store of device information. DRM keys, IMEI, MAC address... etc.
- You can undo this
Recovery - Im sure you know this...
Essentially what every you do you can undo. Sony are really dev friendly. Kind of what Samsung used to be like.
lmemma16 said:
Yeah, i thought the same thing at first but Sony is cool and you can downgrade with a locked bootloader, lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your help I followed the method you linked me to and it worked a treat
hamdogg said:
Hi James,
Let me give you the 411 on Sony devices.
Firstly Sony devices are almost impossible to brick. The only real way to brick your phone is to try and do an update when the battery is at 10% or something, and the battery goes totally flat.
(then it wont be able to hold charge, so will basically be a SD storage device that cannot retain information)
Unlocking bootloader- This is something you will probably want to do, but at a later date. The only real advantage of this is that modified kernels and ROM's can be flashed. At the moment x-reality isn't lost when you unlock your bootloader. But track ID is lost.
- You can undo this
Root - It's highly unlikely that IMEI numbers were harvested. They were ready, but we don't know anything else.
- You can undo root
Backing up your TA partition - (done after Rooting) This is done so if something goes wrong, then you are able to re-flash your TA partition, and restore your device back to stock, and still be covered under your warranty. Inside this partition, is a store of device information. DRM keys, IMEI, MAC address... etc.
- You can undo this
Recovery - Im sure you know this...
Essentially what every you do you can undo. Sony are really dev friendly. Kind of what Samsung used to be like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you it sounds like Sony is a little more dev friendly than I thought now I have root I'm looking forward to being able to back up my ta and flash twrp or Cwm. And most of all install v4a ofcourse
jazjaz92 said:
Thanks for your help I followed the method you linked me to and it worked a treat
Thank you it sounds like Sony is a little more dev friendly than I thought now I have root I'm looking forward to being able to back up my ta and flash twrp or Cwm. And most of all install v4a ofcourse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
howdid you have root?
one question...if vroot is really a bad thing...can i just use it just to:
1.get root
2. back up TA
3.get recovery
4.install the this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=
this way.my root app will not be vroot?
chacho_2me said:
howdid you have root?
one question...if vroot is really a bad thing...can i just use it just to:
1.get root
2. back up TA
3.get recovery
4.install the this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=
this way.my root app will not be vroot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Link doesn't work. Yes, you can get root, back up your TA, get recovery aaand I don't know what that link does, so I don't know. But you can install SuperSU and remove the root app from vRoot. Keep in mind that it's not the vRoot root app that's suspicious but the desktop app.
Still, we have no idea at this point so you can either root and live with it or you can wait it out and see what the investigation brings up.
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
chacho_2me said:
howdid you have root?
one question...if vroot is really a bad thing...can i just use it just to:
1.get root
2. back up TA
3.get recovery
4.install the this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=
this way.my root app will not be vroot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used the vroot method. Nothing is confirmed and for me I felt it was worth the risk
Does anyone have a TWRP or CWM recovery image that can be flashed and booted on. 257? Or do you have to flash the CWM kernel, flash any zips you want, then reflash the .257 kernel in order to boot up and run? Is the recovery always tied to the kernel on this device? A lotta questions, i know
Sent from my C6802 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2
LordManhattan said:
Link doesn't work. Yes, you can get root, back up your TA, get recovery aaand I don't know what that link does, so I don't know. But you can install SuperSU and remove the root app from vRoot. Keep in mind that it's not the vRoot root app that's suspicious but the desktop app.
Still, we have no idea at this point so you can either root and live with it or you can wait it out and see what the investigation brings up.
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
soory why link was broken
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2495875
so we cn get root and change SU with chainfire from market?
hmmm.maybe we could get root via vroot while internet is down.and after getting root..uninstall said desktop app? hahaha..possible?
i searched for all threads.which of them is the one that we would wait regarding if vroot is safe or not? the thread telling vroot as malware?
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
chacho_2me said:
soory why link was broken
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2495875
so we cn get root and change SU with chainfire from market?
hmmm.maybe we could get root via vroot while internet is down.and after getting root..uninstall said desktop app? hahaha..possible?
i searched for all threads.which of them is the one that we would wait regarding if vroot is safe or not? the thread telling vroot as malware?
Sent from my C6833 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, you can use SuperSU instead. It looks like Kingo has updated their app now and removed the IMEI "collector", so I would rather use Kingo than vRoot.
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
LordManhattan said:
Yeah, you can use SuperSU instead. It looks like Kingo has updated their app now and removed the IMEI "collector", so I would rather use Kingo than vRoot.
Sent from my C6833 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the Kingo website the C6833 is not listed as on of the compatible devices, is this an issue?
batchelor7 said:
On the Kingo website the C6833 is not listed as on of the compatible devices, is this an issue?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can't root .257 yet, so you'll have to downgrade to 532 or earlier first.
LordManhattan said:
You can't root .257 yet, so you'll have to downgrade to 532 or earlier first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just got my device friday, came with .532. As a rule of thumb i never upgrade till i see whats going on. looks like i'm good to go, thanks bro.
LordManhattan said:
You can't root .257 yet, so you'll have to downgrade to 532 or earlier first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
even without root..we can still flash the old 532 fw just to gain access to root right?
and then what? maybe use OTA Root Keeper to keep root?
batchelor7 said:
just got my device friday, came with .532. As a rule of thumb i never upgrade till i see whats going on. looks like i'm good to go, thanks bro.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good for you bro...i just bought my phone and my lil sister tinkered it and was updated..waahahahahaha

$100 to anyone that figures out how to root a Sony Z2 with locked Bootloader

I bought this device in Canada, The provider is Bell.
My bootloader is locked. And following the Sony steps.. It says it won't unlock.
In device, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. Bootloader unlock allowed says No,
All my favorite apps won't work properly without root.
If anyone figures a way to root it.. I'll give you $100.
01-
Unlock bootloader
Root - via cwm with supersu flashable zip
Flash totaly stock kernel
Relock
02-
Or flash a prerooted FTF but im too lazy to make one
(my attempt is mid finished :/)
-03
No exploits unfortionatly
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Easy
Unlock bootloader
Root - via cwm with supersu flashable zip
Flash totaly stock kernel
Relock
It should work
Or flash a prerooted FTF but im too lazy to make one
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read his post again. It says root a LOCKED bootloader. Your first listed step was 'Unlock bootloader'.
Uclydde said:
Read his post again. It says root a LOCKED bootloader. Your first listed step was 'Unlock bootloader'.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh i missed that
I guess i better get to work on a prerooted system only FTF
Lol i dont even want that $100, just a chalange for me
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Envious_Data said:
Easy
Unlock bootloader
Root - via cwm with supersu flashable zip
Flash totaly stock kernel
Relock
It should work
Or flash a prerooted FTF but im too lazy to make one
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I should have stated that my bootloader will not unlock. I already tried the sony steps.
exc1d1us said:
Sorry, I should have stated that my bootloader will not unlock. I already tried the sony steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well i guess ill try making a prerooted FTF
I cant live without root and its probably torture for some
For now someone may find an root exploit, if not then blerhg, FTF it is
Try keeping an eye out in development sections
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Envious_Data said:
Well i guess ill try making a prerooted FTF
I cant live without root and its probably torture for some
For now someone may find an root exploit, if not then blerhg, FTF it is
Try keeping an eye out in development sections
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you.. I stick by my word for the $100.. Like you said.. it's torture.
exc1d1us said:
Sorry, I should have stated that my bootloader will not unlock. I already tried the sony steps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait why won't it unlock? Does your phone say its bootloader can't be unlocked or did you just have trouble unlocking it?
Uclydde said:
Wait why won't it unlock? Does your phone say its bootloader can't be unlocked or did you just have trouble unlocking it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone says bootloader cannot be unlocked. In Canada the Z2 started as an exclusive with Bell Mobility.. the Sony store versions are unlockable though.
exc1d1us said:
I bought this device in Canada, The provider is Bell.
My bootloader is locked. And following the Sony steps.. It says it won't unlock.
In device, tap Service info > Configuration > Rooting Status. Bootloader unlock allowed says No,
All my favorite apps won't work properly without root.
If anyone figures a way to root it.. I'll give you $100.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
$100.... it's sounds good? Okay from my experience I bought my XperiaZ from Australian Telco before and it said Bootloader unlock allowed:No
but when I flashed official generic ftf using flashtool. It's said Bootloader Unlock allowed:Yes. So if you can take a risk try it(do it by your own! and don't forget to back up!)... you might try to do that. Luckly my XperiaZ2 is bootloader allowed one. Hope I have a chance to get 100bucks
CenteaOSD said:
$100.... it's sounds good? Okay from my experience I bought my XperiaZ from Australian Telco before and it said Bootloader unlock allowed:No
but when I flashed official generic ftf using flashtool. It's said Bootloader Unlock allowed:Yes. So if you can take a risk try it(do it by your own! and don't forget to back up!)... you might try to do that. Luckly my XperiaZ2 is bootloader allowed one. Hope I have a chance to get 100bucks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is very dangrous, this depends on the contents of the FTF and i wouldent recoment this at al
Have you tried flashing the German DE generic FTF, i think it has stuff for the TA partition
This may do your job
I still dont recomend, do this at your own will if you know how to unbrick a device
Although i would try it but only because i know how to unbrick a xperia (lol this part usualy takes a while)
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Envious_Data said:
This is very dangrous, this depends on the contents of the FTF and i wouldent recoment this at al
Although i would try it but only because
Have you tried flashing the German DE generic FTF, i think it has stuff for the TA partition
This may do your job
I still dont recommend, do this at your own will if you know how to unbrick a device
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I noticed him that it must be done by his own.... But he asks us to is there are anyway to do that? so I just posted the way I did.
I am not recommending him to do that.... I just simply answered his question. Always flash ftf w/o TA and partition.
It is recommended everywhere and If once he started to searching about flash tool it is warned by everyone.
You can't back up TA partition w/o root. So I don't think there is any way to get XperiaZ2 to back to completely stock.
(Although i would try it but only because ←What does it mean? It doesn't make sense for me.)
Well, I tried to flash the stock FTF.. same version as my devices. It errored.. and I am now bricked.
You can't modify an FTF and flash it to a bootloader locked device, modifying it will break Sony's signature verification
I'm guessing there's no way to unbrick?
Michealtbh said:
You can't modify an FTF and flash it to a bootloader locked device, modifying it will break Sony's signature verification
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can its just extremly hard and people have usualy only included a system.sin and nothing else
I used KA25s PreRooted FTF for xperia S back a while ago
(good old GB only 80mb non freeable ram)
exc1d1us said:
Well, I tried to flash the stock FTF.. same version as my devices. It errored.. and I am now bricked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How i unbrick my devices usualy (if they are locked bootloader)
Pt1
Unplug device totaly
Hold power
Hold volume up
Wait for it to buzz 3 times in a row
(rubber bands usualy help)
(ensure battery isnt killed from doing this (low charge)
(aka dont leave rubber bands for several hours)
Pt2
Download and install sony PC companion
Go to support
Go to repair device
Folow instructions
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Envious_Data said:
You can its just extremly hard and people have usualy only included a system.sin and nothing else
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll need to find Sony's signing key then. Good luck with that
Aww.... We warned you.... it must be done by your own and not recommended. Try SEUS.... (Not sure if it works for yours....
Everything what you've done with flashtool will be avoid your warranty..... I think when you downloaded flashtool they warned you again....
As EnviousData warned you too.... even I did not recommended to do that.... dear....
Ok, I managed to unbrick.. back to bootloader unlock allowed: No
Still.. If you guys have any ideas how to root.. $100.
exc1d1us said:
Ok, I managed to unbrick.. back to bootloader unlock allowed: No
Still.. If you guys have any ideas how to root.. $100.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly i say keep your $$$ and wait for a exploit or root method of sorts
Me and my FTF will be a while and Z2 Development has started very slow and may be a while before anything of the sorts comes avaliable
I suggest if you realy want to root try exchanging your device for an unlocked one (or unlockable :/)
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Z2 Questions

I owned a Samsung S3 and rooted it the first couple of days after I got it. Now I'm moving up to the Z2 and I have to say I'm now in a different world. Been reading the guides but I want to be sure of things before I root. I can't go much longer without rooting lol. On Samsung the roms were very carrier specific. Like att, sprint or telus. I'm in Canada and I'm with Bell but see no other sub forums? Is this forum for all Z2? How do I know if my bootloader is locked? I never had to worry before. What is TA partition and DRM keys? Sorry for the noob questions. Just want to get back in the game. Thanks.
crazynewfie said:
I owned a Samsung S3 and rooted it the first couple of days after I got it. Now I'm moving up to the Z2 and I have to say I'm now in a different world. Been reading the guides but I want to be sure of things before I root. I can't go much longer without rooting lol. On Samsung the roms were very carrier specific. Like att, sprint or telus. I'm in Canada and I'm with Bell but see no other sub forums? Is this forum for all Z2? How do I know if my bootloader is locked? I never had to worry before. What is TA partition and DRM keys? Sorry for the noob questions. Just want to get back in the game. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, this forum is for all Z2. There are no carrier-specific sub-forums.
Unlocking the bootloader is an intentional act. If your device is new and you have not unlocked the bootloader, then your bootloader is still locked. You might want to also check if your bootloader is unlockable in the 1st place. Go to your dialer and enter *#*#7378423*#*#, then Service info, then Configuration. Under Rooting status, if it's indicated as "Bootloader unlock allowed: Yes", then you can unlock the bootloader if you want. If it's No, then there's no way to unlock your bootloader. You have to wait for a root exploit for locked bootloaders.
Some info on Trim Area (TA) partition: http://www.themobimag.com/backuprestore-the-ta-partition-on-sony-xperia-devices/
Digital Rights Management (DRM) Keys are basically for Sony features such as TrackID. Some info: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2743240
Do search the entire XDA forum if you want more info on TA partition and DRM keys, as the info are scattered across the other Xperia device forums too.
Thanks. Rooting status is a big No. Darn
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2775411
There are some usefull links here, i did link something to rooting or a suposed root without UBL which you can find in the QnA/FAQ area
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Same with OP, I'm new to this device
All the way since I joined XDA, my device is always samsung series. And always international unlocked version.
Sorry, never meant to hijack a thread. But better rather than I open a new thread
I've try to read and understand first,...
however, I still stuck here and there. Is the step correctly summ up ?
1) backup TA partition.
2) unlock bootloader.
3) restore TA partition.
4) flash CWM.
5) flash custom kernel
6) root
7) then can install custom rom (if I want).
or did I miss any step ?
Restoring Ta relocks your bootloader btw
Flash custom kernel then rom/root n stuff
Then stock kernel (totaly stock like from a FTF)
Then restore TA
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Envious_Data said:
Restoring Ta relocks your bootloader btw
Flash custom kernel then rom/root n stuff
Then stock kernel (totaly stock like from a FTF)
Then restore TA
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
do u mean I have to flash back stock kernel?
and flash TA partition the last step to relock bootloader?
sorry if I m irritating. this device seems more complicated because new to me.
Samsung is much easier though.
Sent from somewhere under the sky, at the corner of this rounded earth.
antique_sonic said:
do u mean I have to flash back stock kernel?
and flash TA partition the last step to relock bootloader?
sorry if I m irritating. this device seems more complicated because new to me.
Samsung is much easier though.
Sent from somewhere under the sky, at the corner of this rounded earth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Restoring TA relocks your bootloader
Relocking on a custom or modified kernel bricks your device
Step1 do what you need with CWM / custom kernel
Step2 flash stock kernel without any thing
Step3 restore TA
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Envious_Data said:
Restoring TA relocks your bootloader
Relocking on a custom or modified kernel bricks your device
Step1 do what you need with CWM / custom kernel
Step2 flash stock kernel without any thing
Step3 restore TA
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks so much man.
thanks for ur help.
Sent from somewhere under the sky, at the corner of this rounded earth.

A couple of rooting questions

I have a couple questions to ask about rooting this device.
I have a UK model with unlockable boot loader. Everything stock on the device.
1. Is there a root out yet that doesn't require unlocking the boot loader?
2. Can I root without voiding my warranty?
3. Can I easily unroot and leave no indication of it being rooted, to make a warranty claim if ever needed?
4. Do mobile banking apps still not work on rooted devices?
5. Does rooting slow down your device?
Thanks in advance
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
1. Yes there is a full root thread on the Original Development forums for the Z2
2. No, your warrenty will void with root however removing and flashing a stock FTF it will restore your warrenty as your Z2 no longer contains modified content
3. You can unroot via the app and there will be noticable changes unless you used root to modify but then you can flash a stock firmware
4. They should. Very few apps actualy check for root
5. Rooting does not slow your device
Info can be found here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2775411
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Thank you
Also is there a tweaksbox/Xposed style app for the Z2?
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
Almost all Xperia 4.4 xposed/modkits/etc work for any Xperia with 4.4 KK aka Z2 with 4.4
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So I can root without unlocking boot loader, and then just unroot to restore warrenty if/when needed?
I have looked through some threads and a little confused about if the phone has to be downgraded to root? The build number ends in .402, so can I root easily?
Thanks again, I do appreciate you taking the time to help me
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Yes you can root without unlocked boooader as of posting this
You can restore warrenty by removing root
I think you can stay on 402 to root, not sure, look at doomlords thread in original development
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I never ended up rooting my device, but decided now is the time.
I am on 17.1.1.A.0.402
Bootloader is unlockable, but currently locked (and will be staying that way.).
Does anyone know if there is a way I can root it without unlocking bootloader and without downgrading firmware?
Thanks in advance
1iam5mith said:
I never ended up rooting my device, but decided now is the time.
I am on 17.1.1.A.0.402
Bootloader is unlockable, but currently locked (and will be staying that way.).
Does anyone know if there is a way I can root it without unlocking bootloader and without downgrading firmware?
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there are root methods in both development sections and general sections
you can also try towelroot
1iam5mith said:
I never ended up rooting my device, but decided now is the time.
I am on 17.1.1.A.0.402
Bootloader is unlockable, but currently locked (and will be staying that way.).
Does anyone know if there is a way I can root it without unlocking bootloader and without downgrading firmware?
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes you can root easily now with locked bl (thanks to all the devs that contributed btw), you can upgrade to .314 and root that easily too, you can then restore ftf to stock and keep warranty. or you can also root, then backup TA, then unlock BL and do whatever you like. you can restore that TA backup later to get locked bl again and restore ftf to stock and keep warranty.
Thanks guys.
Is there any super simple step by step guides for doing this?
1iam5mith said:
Thanks guys.
Is there any super simple step by step guides for doing this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
these root tools that can be found in XDA have guides within the threads
1iam5mith said:
Thanks guys.
Is there any super simple step by step guides for doing this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before you root, you should read the threads in the dev section as potentially you are unleashing a beast which can brick your device.

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