[Q] FlashTool and Custom Recoveries - Xperia Z2 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi guys,
I'm running a different boot.img that was flashed from command line to get CWM, which I used to install Paranoid Android and rom-hop to things like CM11. It's been great having a familiar interface when going between AOSP ROMs, but I'd like to return to stock.
So far, it looks like the main method is to use FlashTool and the various FTFs for Sony ROMs. How does FlashTool behave on devices like mine (unlocked bootloader, custom recovery, AOSP ROM)? Is it safe to use in this situation? What will become of my boot.img if FlashTool is successful?
Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

ricebun said:
Hi guys,
I'm running a different boot.img that was flashed from command line to get CWM, which I used to install Paranoid Android and rom-hop to things like CM11. It's been great having a familiar interface when going between AOSP ROMs, but I'd like to return to stock.
So far, it looks like the main method is to use FlashTool and the various FTFs for Sony ROMs. How does FlashTool behave on devices like mine (unlocked bootloader, custom recovery, AOSP ROM)? Is it safe to use in this situation? What will become of my boot.img if FlashTool is successful?
Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This seems like a fairly basic questions. Have you read about flashtool in their thread? Or searched?
How does it behave? Quite well. Flashtool has nice manners(not sure what your expecting here)
Is it safe? Yes
What happens to boot image? This is a bit complicated. I'd you check the box that says exclude kernel then nothing but if you don't check the box it does it flashes a stock boot.img
Why don't you just flash a stock zip in recovery? It's a lot easer, no need for computer.

Thanks for the response. I was mostly asking this because no matter where I look, stock firmware seems to only come in FTF and I'm not familiar with handling that particular file type. Seems impossible to find an up-to-date site that carries them in ZIP, and I'd been meaning to give FlashTool a try at some point anyway, was just wondering if there were any dangers involved with it when flashing back to stock.

ricebun said:
Thanks for the response. I was mostly asking this because no matter where I look, stock firmware seems to only come in FTF and I'm not familiar with handling that particular file type. Seems impossible to find an up-to-date site that carries them in ZIP, and I'd been meaning to give FlashTool a try at some point anyway, was just wondering if there were any dangers involved with it when flashing back to stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I wanted just to get back to stock sony, I'd just flash something like this in recovery ( http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2929402)
If i wanted to get back to 100% stock to debug an issue, if flash the ftf file.

Related

[Q] ICS Leak question, need a direct answer.

I understand that this may have been asked, and I've been looking at similar threads, but I'm having a hard time finding a direct answer, so I apologize.
I have some experience rooting with an Atrix, but I just got this phone two days ago, this morning I used the 1-click method from rootwhiz to install the ICS leak. No problems having it run at all. I need to know, directly, did this install change my bootloader and change the binary count? I can't remember if I saw anytime of yellow triangle as people talk about. If it changed the bootloader what is there a safe method to return to the older bootloaders, and or do I even need to do so to root and install other roms?
I know that the Atrix had some problems in terms of returning to prior versions of things, and in my research I haven't found a direct answer to this question too.
Basically, did my bootloader change? Can I root using the heimdall method I keep seeing about safely? What would be the best way to root and install custom roms, neglecting the binary counter if I can get a jig or something?
Forgive me again for asking, I just need to have better answers before I try anything.
Are you asking for info for your Atrix or SGS2 device?
Sorry, I am asking about the SGS2.
ds1904.ds said:
I understand that this may have been asked, and I've been looking at similar threads, but I'm having a hard time finding a direct answer, so I apologize.
I have some experience rooting with an Atrix, but I just got this phone two days ago, this morning I used the 1-click method from rootwhiz to install the ICS leak. No problems having it run at all. I need to know, directly, did this install change my bootloader and change the binary count? I can't remember if I saw anytime of yellow triangle as people talk about. If it changed the bootloader what is there a safe method to return to the older bootloaders, and or do I even need to do so to root and install other roms?
I know that the Atrix had some problems in terms of returning to prior versions of things, and in my research I haven't found a direct answer to this question too.
Basically, did my bootloader change? Can I root using the heimdall method I keep seeing about safely? What would be the best way to root and install custom roms, neglecting the binary counter if I can get a jig or something?
Forgive me again for asking, I just need to have better answers before I try anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you used the 1-Click method, yes. Your bootloaders are changed. Wouldve been much better to use the Heimdall method or just root your phone then flash the Leak ROM that task650 and Fenny made. As far as reverting bootloaders to stock, thats out of my range of knowledge. Im sure there is a way to do it though.
EDIT: For rooting, best way is to be on stock 2.3.4 and use the Zergrush exploit.
I've seen you're using the past tense a lot, I thought you already DID.
Anyway, for rooting and installing custom ROM, follow this thread:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1311081
I can't pinpoint exactly what to do since having no info.
Thanks for the answers so far, now that I know my bootloaders have been changed I need to figure out how to either change back / and how to safely root. I may just have to wait it out I think though, no problem with that really, working just fine now. And never use the alarm
For clarification, my rooting experience is limited to the Atrix, the SGS2 is new as of Monday, and I am having trouble sifting through information. What I've learned so far is that maybe it was a little hasty to install the ICS leak the way I did. Prior to the ICS leak there was nothing changed on the phone.
You're going to have to get some experience with ODIN. Here is the bootloader you'll want to flash back to, however, then you'll probably need to flash a kernel with CWM (clock work mod) and then boot into cwm to flash a rom such as Tasks stock ICS leak. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1316726
So if I follow correctly the ICS leak I installed added newer bootloaders that prevent jigging in the future if it was needed. My two options are apparently to use the method that bypasses the counter, which was posted, or to use ODIN and flash the older bootloader, but this can be dangerous if done incorrectly.
The danger of bricking scares me a little, but I successfully used RSD Lite to unlock the bootloader on my Atrix, don't know if it's similar. Perhaps I should take the Atrix and attempt to install an older bootloader on it to get a feel for things? I figure that it wouldn't make much of a difference however...
I figured out that even though I have a newer bootloader now I still have a 0 for the binary counter, as the leak is considered a samsung official release, of course I don't know how that would effect any given warranty.
So, I still feel that these following questions are unanswered, I apologize if I am not understanding correctly:
1. Is it safe for me to root with the heimdall method even with the newer bootloaders
2. Is it safe for me to install custom roms without reverting the bootloader, as long as I am using the bypass method to prevent my counter from changing?
3. What is the exact risk to flashing the older bootloader, and what precautions should I take before doing so? If I flash the older bootloader without reverting to stock firmware will that cause a brick? Or is the risk just associated with fudging up the process of the flash itself, and hoping that the connection doesn't get cut (on that note, the phone, usb cord, and computer I'm using are all less than 4 months old, so that risk doesn't concern me a whole lote).
Sorry if these are stupid questions, I hope I am asking good enough questions to help others out in the future
After some more reading, here's another question as well:
Does the SGS2 technically have an unlocked bootloader already? It just counts how many times you install non samsung firmware?
Also just so I know that I'm not wrong, are Kernal, Firmware, and "Roms" all the same thing? How can you tell if a "package" or "rom" comes with bootloaders, as this is something I apparently am supposed to avoid.
ds1904.ds said:
1. Is it safe for me to root with the heimdall method even with the newer bootloaders
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dont believe you can root since you already flashed it with ODIN 1-Click
ds1904.ds said:
2. Is it safe for me to install custom roms without reverting the bootloader, as long as I am using the bypass method to prevent my counter from changing?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You cannot install custom ROM's because you dont have CWM.
ds1904.ds said:
3. What is the exact risk to flashing the older bootloader, and what precautions should I take before doing so? If I flash the older bootloader without reverting to stock firmware will that cause a brick? Or is the risk just associated with fudging up the process of the flash itself, and hoping that the connection doesn't get cut (on that note, the phone, usb cord, and computer I'm using are all less than 4 months old, so that risk doesn't concern me a whole lot).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Really not sure on these questions. Any takers?
ds1904.ds said:
After some more reading, here's another question as well:
Does the SGS2 technically have an unlocked bootloader already? It just counts how many times you install non samsung firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No; Only download mode (Odin/Heimdall) flashes trigger changes to the warning screen.
ds1904.ds said:
Also just so I know that I'm not wrong, are Kernal, Firmware, and "Roms" all the same thing? How can you tell if a "package" or "rom" comes with bootloaders, as this is something I apparently am supposed to avoid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kernel is a set of drivers that tells the hardware what to do. Firmware is like a new base. (XXLPQ, DXLP7 etc.) A ROM is the whole package.
Please if I missed anything or am incorrect about some/all of this, somebody correct me.
Okay I think I'm starting to figure this out. I downgraded to 2.3.4 using an unroot/stock method I found, using odin and it worked. It would not accept the OTA update however, but I believe this is due to the ULCL2 baseband? Someone correct me if I am wrong.
Now I am going to use method 2c found here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1311081
to root and restore to the other baseband, which also happens to be the one that's best for my area I believe. From there, I can install CWM using one of the 31-c methods, and use CWM to install custom roms as long as they don't have bootloaders, correct? Or does it not matter if the packages have bootloaders.
Someone correct me if I am wrong, I don't want to ruin anything here. I think it's safe to install the files that come from the 2c method but wont be doing anything else until I know it's safe.
ds1904.ds said:
Okay I think I'm starting to figure this out. I downgraded to 2.3.4 using an unroot/stock method I found, using odin and it worked. It would not accept the OTA update however, but I believe this is due to the ULCL2 baseband? Someone correct me if I am wrong.
Now I am going to use method 2c found here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1311081
to root and restore to the other baseband, which also happens to be the one that's best for my area I believe. From there, I can install CWM using one of the 31-c methods, and use CWM to install custom roms as long as they don't have bootloaders, correct? Or does it not matter if the packages have bootloaders.
Someone correct me if I am wrong, I don't want to ruin anything here. I think it's safe to install the files that come from the 2c method but wont be doing anything else until I know it's safe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should be fine. NONE of the ROMs you find on the I777 boards in Ported or Original will have bootloaders so no worries. And yes after root use Mobile ODIN to install a zImage which will give you CWM. Highly recommend Siyah 2.6.14. Please stick to just trying some GB ROM's and get the hang of making nandroids etc before moving on the ICS ROM's.
D3M3NT3D_L0RD said:
Should be fine. NONE of the ROMs you find on the I777 boards in Ported or Original will have bootloaders so no worries. And yes after root use Mobile ODIN to install a zImage which will give you CWM. Highly recommend Siyah 2.6.14. Please stick to just trying some GB ROM's and get the hang of making nandroids etc before moving on the ICS ROM's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All I get is an apk file, I've been searching all night for a zimage... The file says i777 flashkernal, and it's just an .apk. Mobile Odin can't see it unless I name it zimage with no file extension. I tried that and it seemed like it was soft-bricked so I used odin on the PC to reflash the stock root think mentioned in the thread.
I was thinking of CM7 if it will work flashing as a zip from CWM, if I can get CWM on there that is.
ds1904.ds said:
All I get is an apk file, I've been searching all night for a zimage... The file says i777 flashkernal, and it's just an .apk. Mobile Odin can't see it unless I name it zimage with no file extension. I tried that and it seemed like it was soft-bricked so I used odin on the PC to reflash the stock root think mentioned in the thread.
I was thinking of CM7 if it will work flashing as a zip from CWM, if I can get CWM on there that is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where in the hell are you getting an apk from? If you dl Siyah or Entropy kernel, the zImage is in the zip. Pull that and put it on your SD card
I am interested because I was in your position. Did the ICS leak 1 day too early and lost root. So what method did you use to go back to GB? Did you have to flash a new bootloader or was that all done in one package? Was it Entropy's "return" method?
I was seeing if I can keep the ICS leak and root. A dev here advised that all I need to do is re-flash the zip filed ICS leak. However since I have no root, I can't CWM recovery...I don't know another method to flash the rooted ICS leak.
So I'm thinking I have to wait for an exploit, or flash back to an old GB, root, ensure I have CWM, nandroid (I nandroided my rooted GB before upgrading to ICS leak), then flash the zip ICS leak.
Does anyone else have alternatives?
ds1904.ds said:
Okay I think I'm starting to figure this out. I downgraded to 2.3.4 using an unroot/stock method I found, using odin and it worked. It would not accept the OTA update however, but I believe this is due to the ULCL2 baseband? Someone correct me if I am wrong.
Now I am going to use method 2c found here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1311081
to root and restore to the other baseband, which also happens to be the one that's best for my area I believe. From there, I can install CWM using one of the 31-c methods, and use CWM to install custom roms as long as they don't have bootloaders, correct? Or does it not matter if the packages have bootloaders.
Someone correct me if I am wrong, I don't want to ruin anything here. I think it's safe to install the files that come from the 2c method but wont be doing anything else until I know it's safe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SMH...root is not needed for CWM... a custom kernel is
Pirateghost said:
SMH...root is not needed for CWM... a custom kernel is
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
True but to do it with Mobile ODIN you need root
ds1904.ds said:
After some more reading, here's another question as well:
Does the SGS2 technically have an unlocked bootloader already? It just counts how many times you install non samsung firmware?
Also just so I know that I'm not wrong, are Kernal, Firmware, and "Roms" all the same thing? How can you tell if a "package" or "rom" comes with bootloaders, as this is something I apparently am supposed to avoid.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"ROM" is an improper name for the firmware flashed to a phone. (the memory in question isn't read-only by any means. In Windows Mobile devices, you had to flash the firmware image all in one go - but on Android, /system contents can be modified on the fly as they're a normal file system.) garyd9 started a little crusade against the term ROM and I try to continue it (but I slip up sometimes).
Kernel contains the most basic low-level hardware drivers for a device. It's a small portion of the firmware for a phone. The remaining portion is the system partition - /system - kernel and /system together make a complete firmware package.
And you are correct - our bootloaders are fundamentally unlocked, the only code signing enforcement is the custom binary counter. It can be reset either with the jig or with TriangleAway (TriangleAway requires ICS)
Entropy512 said:
"ROM" is an improper name for the firmware flashed to a phone. (the memory in question isn't read-only by any means. In Windows Mobile devices, you had to flash the firmware image all in one go - but on Android, /system contents can be modified on the fly as they're a normal file system.) garyd9 started a little crusade against the term ROM and I try to continue it (but I slip up sometimes).
Kernel contains the most basic low-level hardware drivers for a device. It's a small portion of the firmware for a phone. The remaining portion is the system partition - /system - kernel and /system together make a complete firmware package.
And you are correct - our bootloaders are fundamentally unlocked, the only code signing enforcement is the custom binary counter. It can be reset either with the jig or with TriangleAway (TriangleAway requires ICS)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad you chimed in. I now feel stupid at my lack of knowledge
I almost think that the issue is that your "unzipping" the zip image files that you are downloading.
Why is it so important that you keep the phone in a reversable mode? Are you planning on returning it or perhaps selling it and do not want it to be known that you have flashed it?
Personally I am not knowledgeable enough to offer much advice, I just read the forums as most and try to put together the peices of information that fit my situation.
The Dev forum is by far the best place to look and get your questions answered and there are a bunch of guides on step by step processes. The only real advice I can give you is to google each term and understand what it is you need and then post your question.

[Q] Root official ICS(updated with SUS)

Is there a way to root my officialy updated to ICS, Xperia Mini(ST15i) without unlocking bootloader?(in order to downgrade etc...) I just want to root my xperia mini without messing up with the warranty....Any way to root it with locked bootloader? (4.1.B.0.431)
Thanks in advance
You have to downgrade to Gingerbread, root it and then upgrade to ICS using THIS tutorial.
There could be a different way: you should flash the 4.0.3 kernel (for example the Arc one), but I can't find the tutorial. Use the search button and see if you can find it
Feanor88 said:
You have to downgrade to Gingerbread, root it and then upgrade to ICS using THIS tutorial.
There could be a different way: you should flash the 4.0.3 kernel (for example the Arc one), but I can't find the tutorial. Use the search button and see if you can find it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
downgrading needs unlocked bootloader... :/ i had bricked my mini some time ago because i tried to downgrade with locked... (( any other way?
Thanks
EDIT: flashing xperia arc's or Neo V's for example would brick my phone....wouldn't it? (and it also needs bootloader unlock...so i don't think i would do that... BUT thanks for your help mate
No, flashing a .ftf does NOT need an unlocked bootloader. You need to unlock it only if you want to flash a custom kernel, but for custom ROMs you can use flashtool.
Same for the 4.0.3 kernel. It's a stock kernel, so you can flash it via flashtool
It WILL end in bootloop, though. The tutorial says you can use DoomLord's root kit anyway, root the phone and then flash again the 4.0.4 kernel. But find it and read it carefully, cause I didn't try it and I can't assure you it will work.
I tried the first one I suggested, though, and my bootloader is locked!
Feanor88 said:
No, flashing a .ftf does NOT need an unlocked bootloader. You need to unlock it only if you want to flash a custom kernel, but for custom ROMs you can use flashtool.
Same for the 4.0.3 kernel. It's a stock kernel, so you can flash it via flashtool
It WILL end in bootloop, though. The tutorial says you can use DoomLord's root kit anyway, root the phone and then flash again the 4.0.4 kernel. But find it and read it carefully, cause I didn't try it and I can't assure you it will work.
I tried the first one I suggested, though, and my bootloader is locked!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
man i have a problem...when i place my phone into flashmode (down key) it disconnects on its own...and that's why i bricked my phone long time ago....now i am afraid to do that i have installed the flashtool drivers from Flashtool/drivers.... but they mustn't work for my mini....any solution please give me the drivers you use for your Mini and work with it if you can i would really appreciate that!
What do you mean, it disconnects? How much time does it take for it to disconnect? Mine does the same. If I plug it and wait for a minute or so doing nothing, it disconnects. But if I start flashing a ROM it doesn't.
The drivers I installed are in \Flashtool\drivers.
Feanor88 said:
What do you mean, it disconnects? How much time does it take for it to disconnect? Mine does the same. If I plug it and wait for a minute or so doing nothing, it disconnects. But if I start flashing a ROM it doesn't.
The drivers I installed are in \Flashtool\drivers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it takes about 1-2 minutes to disconnect.But, what if it disconnects while on downgrading?
It doesn't. At least, mine doesn't! And I flashed firmware twice a day in the last week
Anyway, both ways need the use of flashtool... so if you don't want to try it, you can't root ICS
Feanor88 said:
It doesn't. At least, mine doesn't! And I flashed firmware twice a day in the last week
Anyway, both ways need the use of flashtool... so if you don't want to try it, you can't root ICS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pfff i'm a bit scared.....there is no hope that there will be somewhen another way to root...?
No, I'm sorry. Anyway, just follow this steps:
1) DON'T plug your phone.
2) Open flashtool
3) Click the lightning icon and select flashmode
4) Select the .ftf you want to flash: if you want to downgrade, select wipe data. If you want to flash the 4.0.3 kernel, unckeck wipe data and check "exclude" for everything apart from kernel. Which means you'll only flash the kernel
5) Start: you'll be asked to plug your phone. Plug it now in flashmode. This way you'll avoid it being unplugged.
Flashing will start, and your phone won't be unplugged. I suppose it's unplugged automatically when you're not doing anything, it's the same for me, but I repeat, whenever I flash something (kernel, whole ROM, whatever) everything just goes fine
Feanor88 said:
No, I'm sorry. Anyway, just follow this steps:
1) DON'T plug your phone.
2) Open flashtool
3) Click the lightning icon and select flashmode
4) Select the .ftf you want to flash: if you want to downgrade, select wipe data. If you want to flash the 4.0.3 kernel, unckeck wipe data and check "exclude" for everything apart from kernel. Which means you'll only flash the kernel
5) Start: you'll be asked to plug your phone. Plug it now in flashmode. This way you'll avoid it being unplugged.
Flashing will start, and your phone won't be unplugged. I suppose it's unplugged automatically when you're not doing anything, it's the same for me, but I repeat, whenever I flash something (kernel, whole ROM, whatever) everything just goes fine
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i maybe try it later... thanks for your replies man DD i appreciate that
kwstas 13 said:
i maybe try it later... thanks for your replies man DD i appreciate that
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Let me know if you need more help!
Feanor88 said:
Let me know if you need more help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A friend of mine told me that if i try with locked bootloader is a simple suicide!!! :/ Now i am confused again :S
kwstas 13 said:
A friend of mine told me that if i try with locked bootloader is a simple suicide!!! :/ Now i am confused again :S
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who is that friend of you? He is trolling. Stay away from him. And learn this. Feanor here is a better friend for you than him, when it comes to rooting your phone.
Just do as in the tutorial Fenor had shared in his first post. Everything will be fine.
And you say you bricked your phone. May we know how your repaired it?
Thanks,
Rick
Sent from my SK17i using XDA
DragonClawsAreSharp said:
Feanor here is a better friend for you than him, when it comes to rooting your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Blushing
But don't forget I'm a noob after all... I'll just keep pointing other people's tutorials, like for example yours, Rick
DragonClawsAreSharp said:
Who is that friend of you? He is trolling. Stay away from him. And learn this. Feanor here is a better friend for you than him, when it comes to rooting your phone.
Just do as in the tutorial Fenor had shared in his first post. Everything will be fine.
And you say you bricked your phone. May we know how your repaired it?
Thanks,
Rick
Sent from my SK17i using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
while i was downgrading with locked bootloader the procces stopped on its own at 43%....and my phone wouldn't turn on and didn't even worked with flashtool....i sent it to a service centre and they fixed it ( i think i hadn't installed the proper drivers....am i right?)
kwstas 13 said:
while i was downgrading with locked bootloader the procces stopped on its own at 43%....and my phone wouldn't turn on and didn't even worked with flashtool....i sent it to a service centre and they fixed it ( i think i hadn't installed the proper drivers....am i right?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's strange. Anyway, if you installed PC Companion you have adb drivers. Install flashmode drivers from Flashtool installazion folder, you find the executable in \Flashtool\drivers. If Windows prompts you that the drivers are dangerous, just install them anyway.
What I can say is that you DON'T need to unlock your bootloader to use flashmode in Flashtool. Otherwise, my phone would have exploded long ago
Now let me tell you this: if you are SURE you did everything the right way, and still your phone got bricked, then maybe you shouldn't try. you never know.
If you tried to to something you didn't know how to do, you probably made a mistake, and that's why the phone got bricked.In this case, I'd give it a try.
But we're not able to see your phone and test it, so whatever you do, unfortunately, you always do it on your own risk.
I couldn't be more sincere.
kwstas 13 said:
while i was downgrading with locked bootloader the procces stopped on its own at 43%....and my phone wouldn't turn on and didn't even worked with flashtool....i sent it to a service centre and they fixed it ( i think i hadn't installed the proper drivers....am i right?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On all probability you are correct.
They (The service centre people) flashed a firmware using Flashtool. That's what they must have did. See. I will explain things a bit.
Your phone has some memory in it (this corresponds to what was known as phone memory in older phones). This memory is of Read Only type. That is ROM. Now, of all the types of ROMs, androids have EEPROM. That stands for Electronically Erasable Programmable ROM. So you can electronically erase the data stored in the ROM and write new data on it (even though it is called Read Only). This process of writing new data on the ROM is called flashing.
For flashing, the tool that is available to us as an open source, is Flashtool. Using it we can flash ROMs into our phones, erasing the earlier ones.
Now, Sony will not want us to flash Cyanogen Mod to our phones. So they have made up the concept of locking the bootloaders. With locked bootloaders custom ROMs can not be flashed to your phone. This is because most custom ROMs are designed for a specific Kernel (the intermediate between the OS and the hardware), and flashing a custom kernel requires unlocked bootloaders.
If you want, you can flash firmwares (ROMs + Kernels released by Sony) even if you are on locked bootloader, as long as the firmware files are signed by Sony.
This restriction however is against the OpenSource spirit of Android, and thus Sony gives us the scope to unlock bootloader at the cost of loosing the warranty, and the DRM keys (search google for that).
Now coming to your problem of unability to flash properly, make sure that you have installed all the drivers. For that open up /drivers folder in /flashtool and install the .exe there. Also install the adb drivers of your device. For that have PC Companion installed on your PC. Flashing will happen properly then.
Thanks,
Rick
Sent from my SK17i using XDA
DragonClawsAreSharp said:
On all probability you are correct.
They (The service centre people) flashed a firmware using Flashtool. That's what they must have did. See. I will explain things a bit.
Your phone has some memory in it (this corresponds to what was known as phone memory in older phones). This memory is of Read Only type. That is ROM. Now, of all the types of ROMs, androids have EEPROM. That stands for Electronically Erasable Programmable ROM. So you can electronically erase the data stored in the ROM and write new data on it (even though it is called Read Only). This process of writing new data on the ROM is called flashing.
For flashing, the tool that is available to us as an open source, is Flashtool. Using it we can flash ROMs into our phones, erasing the earlier ones.
Now, Sony will not want us to flash Cyanogen Mod to our phones. So they have made up the concept of locking the bootloaders. With locked bootloaders custom ROMs can not be flashed to your phone. This is because most custom ROMs are designed for a specific Kernel (the intermediate between the OS and the hardware), and flashing a custom kernel requires unlocked bootloaders.
If you want, you can flash firmwares (ROMs + Kernels released by Sony) even if you are on locked bootloader, as long as the firmware files are signed by Sony.
This restriction however is against the OpenSource spirit of Android, and thus Sony gives us the scope to unlock bootloader at the cost of loosing the warranty, and the DRM keys (search google for that).
Now coming to your problem of unability to flash properly, make sure that you have installed all the drivers. For that open up /drivers folder in /flashtool and install the .exe there. Also install the adb drivers of your device. For that have PC Companion installed on your PC. Flashing will happen properly then.
Thanks,
Rick
Sent from my SK17i using XDA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You, and all developers/people here, are simply awesome!.... But this sh*t with unlocking bootloader and loosing warranty is so....stupid....I think i will give it a try and i am gonna sure thank you.... Somethink else....my phone has also a problem on the screen while scrolling....do you know if that is a hardware or a firmware problem?
What do i mean when i say scroll problem:
1st example: While browsing the Internet and scroll with fast moves, links are pressed on its own and new tabs are opened,as links are pressed.
2nd example: While i scroll the app drawer,fast s make apps open without my will....
3nd exapmle and the most representative: While playing fruit ninja and do fast moves to cut the fruits, the touchscreen doesn't even fell that i touch the screen!!! I do fast moves to cut the fruits and nothing happens!! As a result i always lose! (just joking....)
My phone is fast and really smooth only when my moves are slow....any thoughts about that? :/
Thanks once again for your BRAVE help!
You have a Mini, right? That's a hardware problem. Very common, even if not everyone realizes it. Check THIS thread for a (possible?) solution.

[GUIDE][HOW-TO] Flashing a Custom ROM

Before I begin, Mods, PLEASE pin this. I (when I was a noob) had absolute difficulty installing ROMs. This is very noob-friendly, fixes Status 7 errors, and is easy to follow.
Alright friends and future flashers. I used to have difficulty installing ROMs. Now that I know how (after going through numerous tutorials), I'd like to make it easy for ALL of you. Enjoy your Custom ROM!
Before beginning, you need Android's SDK,Flashtool and The latest Official firmware.
If ever your phone needs to install drivers, let it install, don't unplug the phone or whatever.
And, battery at least 30%. Mine does it at even 20% without issues, but just to be safe.
Step 1: Revert to Stock
You don't need to downgrade. After flashing the latest stock kernel, I have flashed every single GB and ICS ROM in existence without issues, so you don't need to flash a specific one. But, latest one tends to be more stable. Here's what you do:
Get the latest Global ftf for your phone. Then, flash it using Flashtool. I won't go into specifics, but PM me if needed
By Now, you should have a stock EVERYTHING. Boot up the phone, run through the whole set up process. Once you are done, you need to get your IMEI number. Do this by following the steps here.
In the end, you should have the bootloader unlocked. If you come up with something like bootloader already unlocked, then you are good to go. Now onto......
Step 2: Preparing your Flash.
Download the ROM of your choice. I'd recommend FXP's Unofficial CyanogenMod9 as it has the best stability and no ICS Multitouch issues. If it is GB, any ROM will do. Most of them are stable.
Now, in the case of CyanogenMod, they often come with their own custom Kernel. It is in the zip file, known as boot.img, and you simply extract it to your platform-tools folder in the android-sdk folder you downloaded to unlock the bootloader. This is also true for some MIUI ROMs I've come across. Read their forum posts for more info on which kernel to use.
Copy the ZIP file to your sdcard. It does not have to be the root of SDcard, anywhere will do.
By the end, your Custom ROM's ZIP file will be in your SDCard, and the kernel file (a.k.a. boot.img or whatever_the _kernel_name_is.img) will be here:
32bit Windows: C:/Program Files/Android/android-sdk/platform-tools
64bit Windows: C:/Program Files(x86)/Android/android-sdk/platform-tools
Now we can
Step 3: Flash your Custom ROM
In the folder above (depending on OS version) press Shift+RightClick. Options will show up. Select "Open Command Prompt Here". A Command Prompt will open (duh).
Turn off your phone. Wait 10 seconds. While plugging in your phone, press the Menu button (the Right button). The LED Indicator should turn blue. This shows your in fastboot mode. If it starts to boot, rip out the battery and try again. DON'T STOP PRESSING UNTIL IT TURNS BLUE.
Now, type EXACTLY AS FOLLOWS, ONE AT A TIME. Just type in the lines with the "-" before it, but don't put in the "-" when typing it. The line underneath in brackets is an explanation, so you understand what is happening.
-fastboot devices
(This is actually a quick test I do to see if my phone is connected in flash mode or not. If nothing happens, it is not in flash mode or the drivers are installing)
-fastboot flash boot boot.img
(This is telling fastboot to FLASH the BOOT partition of your phone with the file specified. If you are using a different kernel, simply replace boot.img with the name of the kernel, ending with .img and wait for it to finish. Won't take long)
-fastboot reboot
(This causes the phone to reboot)
Now, while it is starting up, keep repeatedly pressing the Volume Down button until you are in ClockWorkMod Recovery (Assuming you are using it. CWM is the most popular and most kernels use it) Then, If you choose to, make a backup. I personally don't, as it is not too big an issue and I never revert to an old ROM anyway.
After that, choose Factory Reset. This will remove ALL data in your phone except your Stock ROM. Then, Clear Cache. You might've noticed it already did that when you Factory Reset, but this is for safety. Finally, in advanced, Wipe Dalvik-Cache and Wipe Battery Stats. I do this all the time for safety.
Now, the fun bit. GO to Install ZIP from SDCard. Select Choose ZIP, find your ROMs ZIP file, and install. It might take awhile, but not too long. Just be patient. When it finishes, flash anything else the ROMs forum post says to flash (Gapps, Patch, etc) and select Reboot Phone.
Step 4: Done!
Your phone will start up. First time is always slow, but this WILL WORK. Congratulations. You now have a Custom ROM
If you get a Status 7 error while flashing a ROM, reboot recovery and wipe everything again. If that doesn't work, flash official firmware and try again.
Credits to:
-Google: Providing Android SDK and Gapps
-Androxyde: Flashtool
-Madfysh: List of Official ICS ROMs
FXP: Creating CyanagonMod9
-And YOU!
P.S.: If you're confused, or feel this could use something extra PM me.
And uh, if it needs to be moved, please do so. Thanks!
I do know there is THIS but I felt some of his steps were unnecessary. Example, rooting. Any custom ROM will be rooted, so there will be no need to worry about that. And he also provided overclocking tips and an unofficial bootloader unlock which are hazardous and potentially permadamaging to the phone.
PLEASE Don't spoil the mood man!!
This is a development section where even Noob Devs know how to flash a Custom Rom!! PLeaseee Pleaseeee ... Move it
Alright man. How would I move it? Cause, I only RECENTLY started being active on the forums.
Jass5991 said:
I do know there is THIS but I felt some of his steps were unnecessary. Example, rooting. Any custom ROM will be rooted, so there will be no need to worry about that. And he also provided overclocking tips and an unofficial bootloader unlock which are hazardous and potentially permadamaging to the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't say that thread is unnecessary; they put everything in one thread cause it's easy to find. the first step we should do is rooting if we are noops. Then we will be curious about unlock or custom rom later.
Sent from Xperia Neo using AOKP B40
Still dev thread so if you don't know how you should not be trying
It goes like this no dl link no thread
but still is a good post
some unnecessary parts
some dodgy parts
But good for noob never-ending Questions
Maybe Q&A
Reck1993 said:
Don't say that thread is unnecessary; they put everything in one thread cause it's easy to find. the first step we should do is rooting if we are noops. Then we will be curious about unlock or custom rom later.
Sent from Xperia Neo using AOKP B40
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay. I will add an easy rooting instructions to it.
kormatoes said:
Still dev thread so if you don't know how you should not be trying
It goes like this no dl link no thread
but still is a good post
some unnecessary parts
some dodgy parts
But good for noob never-ending Questions
Maybe Q&A
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks kormatoes. Could you gimme some of the unnecessary/dodgy parts?
Jass5991 said:
I do know there is THIS but I felt some of his steps were unnecessary. Example, rooting. Any custom ROM will be rooted, so there will be no need to worry about that. And he also provided overclocking tips and an unofficial bootloader unlock which are hazardous and potentially permadamaging to the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) actually that(which you linked) tutorial is good, it just need some updating. but your tutorial is different than that.
2) root is certainly not unnecessary! not all people will go for custom roms, specially as most of them are for unlocked BL.
3) unofficial unlock is not hazardous, it is tricky, but it paid of if we look on the advantage against official unlock
Nice from you that you wrote all this, it's based only for custom roms's, thread which is already sticked is for basic things, which any noob should know.
But still, this looks kinda cluttered, and from noob(which you intend this to) point of view, to long/complicate to read
Madfysh said:
1) actually that(which you linked) tutorial is good, it just need some updating. but your tutorial is different than that.
2) root is certainly not unnecessary! not all people will go for custom roms, specially as most of them are for unlocked BL.
3) unofficial unlock is not hazardous, it is tricky, but it paid of if we look on the advantage against official unlock
Nice from you that you wrote all this, it's based only for custom roms's, thread which is already sticked is for basic things, which any noob should know.
But still, this looks kinda cluttered, and from noob(which you intend this to) point of view, to long/complicate to read
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you all big guns
but there should be a start-up kit for newbie
There can be a Starter Section with due permission
lalit387 said:
Thank you all big guns
but there should be a start-up kit for newbie
There can be a Starter Section with due permission
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As it is, I am attempting to code a batch file to automatically run the entire flashing process, including kernel and ROM. Having a small issue where it does not wipe dalvik and cache. It also doesn't flash the custom ROM

[Q] Getting back to stock for Lollipop update

I gave my XZU, which has an unlocked bootloader, is rooted, and is running 4.4.2 to my mother. I want to return the device to stock, as she has no need for root, and upgrade it to stock lollipop. The problem is, I rooted it a long time ago, I don't remember how I did it, and even then, I was stumbling through the process. There are many more guides about rooting than there are about unrooting, so I'm concerned that I may brick the phone or mess it up in some way. Here are the steps I found on XDA for returning to stock:
1. Make sure you have root
2. Backup any data/photos/etc on the phone
3. Restore your TA backup with the TA backup tool above
--------If you are on a custom kernel or ROM you ZU will not boot at this stage
4. Start flashtool and load a FTF
5. Start the flash and wait for the onscreen instructions to connect the ZU
6. Connect your ZU in flashmode
---------With the ZU powered off
---------Connect to PC while holding the volume down key
---------Flash will start
7. Wait for flash to complete
Is this the appropriate way to approach what I'm trying to do here? I am not running a custom kernel or ROM, I don't think. Certainly not a custom rom, though I'm not sure how kernels work anymore. But I'm pretty sure it's not custom. Just to be certain I am doing this properly, I want to write this out with the guide and see if it makes sense.
1. I do have root.
2. Done.
3. I have my TA partition saved as a .zip from when I originally rooted the phone. I'm not completely sure how I restore the partition. I am getting the Backup TA program from here: https://github.com/DevShaft/Backup-TA/releases. But I can't find actually how to restore it. After I do this, my bootloader is now relocked, and then I can just flash stock .ftf's? Is this correct?
4. I am downloading flashtool from here: http://www.flashtool.net/downloads.php and I am using this .ftf: [STOCK ROM] [FTF] Xperia Z Ultra (C6806) 14.3.A.0.681 "US Unbranded", which I am getting from here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...tf-depository-sony-firmware-releases-t2829387. I haven't used the flashtool since the original rooting I did, but I think I can figure it out.
5. Etc.
6. Etc.
7. Etc.
At this point, I should be back on stock, right? And then I could just update through Sony's PC Companion at this point, yes? I'm basically just looking for a "Yes, you're going in the right direction" or "Yes, this is how you would return the device to stock."
Thanks!
That is the most up to date instructions that I know of, sorry I can't answer about the TA restore. Just one suggestion would be to flash a lollipop ftf, rather than kitkat and trying to get it to upgrade. An even easier solution would be to leave it unlocked and flash this http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...llipop-5-0-2-c6806-14-5-0-242-rooted-t3082449 in recovery.
adfurgerson said:
That is the most up to date instructions that I know of, sorry I can't answer about the TA restore. Just one suggestion would be to flash a lollipop ftf, rather than kitkat and trying to get it to upgrade. An even easier solution would be to leave it unlocked and flash this http://forum.xda-developers.com/xpe...llipop-5-0-2-c6806-14-5-0-242-rooted-t3082449 in recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I appreciate it. I think I'm going to try it now. I really want it on stock for any updates. It needs to stay as simple and as up-to-date as possible without as little effort as possible. Do you know where the stock lollipop .ftf's are?
Snarging said:
I appreciate it. I think I'm going to try it now. I really want it on stock for any updates. It needs to stay as simple and as up-to-date as possible without as little effort as possible. Do you know where the stock lollipop .ftf's are?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This tool might work.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/cro...xperifirm-xperia-firmware-downloader-t2834142

Where can i find the Stock ROM?

After whole day trying, i can't flash MarshMallow and now system is keep reboot after show the logo,
perhaps i should had chose a Nexus 9.
I tried to restore with TWRP but it keep failing with 'Can't mount /system as read-write' like error message, I DO choose 'Swipe to Allow Modifications', seems i have to flash stock ROM.
Is there anywhere to download the stock ROM to reset it to default? or any other way to restore it?
Wei Xu said:
After whole day trying, i can't flash MarshMallow and now system is keep reboot after show the logo,
perhaps i should had chose a Nexus 9.
I tried to restore with TWRP but it keep failing with 'Can't mount /system as read-write' like error message, I DO choose 'Swipe to Allow Modifications', seems i have to flash stock ROM.
Is there anywhere to download the stock ROM to reset it to default? or any other way to restore it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi
Download flashtool http://www.flashtool.net/downloads.php. and xperifirm http://forum.xda-developers.com/cro...xperifirm-xperia-firmware-downloader-t2834142 . Search with xperifirm the correct Rom version. And correct location for your tablet.
Create a ftf file and flash it with flashtool. Search in this forum to find how to create a ftf file.
Reinstall androplus kernel v10, twrp and SuperSu
If you made a backup of the user data partition with twrp you can restore it (the restoration of the system partition does not work).
killdozer56 said:
Hi
Download flashtool http://www.flashtool.net/downloads.php. and xperifirm http://forum.xda-developers.com/cro...xperifirm-xperia-firmware-downloader-t2834142 . Search with xperifirm the correct Rom version. And correct location for your tablet.
Create a ftf file and flash it with flashtool. Search in this forum to find how to create a ftf file.
Reinstall androplus kernel v10, twrp and SuperSu
If you made a backup of the user data partition with twrp you can restore it (the restoration of the system partition does not work).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, since what i have flashed is just boot.img, recovery.img, system.img and userdata.img, is it possible to just flash these image back, i checked both linux and windows out to package a ftp, but looks it's a little complicated to make it.
I found a UK 'ftf' on xperiablog, can i use this for my HK version?
Wei Xu said:
I found a UK 'ftf' on xperiablog, can i use this for my HK version?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Create a FTF file is not complicated. With flashtool(Tools ->bundle->fileset decrypt)
I assume you have a SGP712.(wifi only) Because there is a Cutomized HK version 28.0.A.8.260 for the sgp771 with xperifirm
Am i correct ?
If you have the SGP712 you can try to flash the uk ftf you found via flashtool.
If you have the lte SGP771 i'm not sure your uk ftf file is compatible (because of the lte baseband) but you can try it
killdozer56 said:
Create a FTF file is not complicated. With flashtool(Tools ->bundle->fileset decrypt)
I assume you have a SGP712.(wifi only) Because there is a Cutomized HK version 28.0.A.8.260 for the sgp771 with xperifirm
Am i correct ?
If you have the SGP712 you can try to flash the uk ftf you found via flashtool.
If you have the lte SGP771 i'm not sure your uk ftf file is compatible (because of the lte baseband) but you can try it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you bro! You saved my day (and my wallet too)! I had the same problem and this procedure worked like a clarm!
cchristofis said:
Thank you bro! You saved my day (and my wallet too)! I had the same problem and this procedure worked like a clarm!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
I'm happy for you :good:
Will flashing unlock phone?
Hi all members of XDA-Dev
This is my first post. I hope Im posting in the right section and thread, if not sorry in advance and please point me in the right direction.
Im too wondering about a rom flash for my Sony Xperia Z4 Tablet (SGP771)
My situation is that the SIM function is locked to a certain telco and Im wondering if I flash this device using the factory rom that comes from Sony if it will "unlock" it.
Since Im new to this Im wondering it may not necessarily be "stock rom" ie stock android from Google, but the modified android rom that comes from Sony as, at this stage, I still want to explore all the offering Sony has that comes with this device. Or am I wrong to assume that after flashing stock android rom, installing the complete "stock" apps that comes factory with this device is a process that is without much fuss (my emphasis)?
I know I can pay a good sum to get this unlocked by the telco but Im also hoping that I can somehow find tools on this forum and do it myself of course with the generous help of fellow memebers.
My primary objective is to unlock this tablet so I can use it with another telco and if by flashing I can get it done or by some other means then please share your knowledge with this noob
Thanks
signwav said:
Hi all members of XDA-Dev
This is my first post. I hope Im posting in the right section and thread, if not sorry in advance and please point me in the right direction.
Im too wondering about a rom flash for my Sony Xperia Z4 Tablet (SGP771)
My situation is that the SIM function is locked to a certain telco and Im wondering if I flash this device using the factory rom that comes from Sony if it will "unlock" it.
Since Im new to this Im wondering it may not necessarily be "stock rom" ie stock android from Google, but the modified android rom that comes from Sony as, at this stage, I still want to explore all the offering Sony has that comes with this device. Or am I wrong to assume that after flashing stock android rom, installing the complete "stock" apps that comes factory with this device is a process that is without much fuss (my emphasis)?
I know I can pay a good sum to get this unlocked by the telco but Im also hoping that I can somehow find tools on this forum and do it myself of course with the generous help of fellow memebers.
My primary objective is to unlock this tablet so I can use it with another telco and if by flashing I can get it done or by some other means then please share your knowledge with this noob
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
I think you can unlock your tablet to use another provider with flashtool and xperifirm and flash a sony stock rom, you can give it a try
Thanks killdozer56 for your advice.
I wonder if any other network locked devices have been able to be unlocked by flashing?
Im really wanting to do this but Im a bit reluctant to test it if their arnt any confirmed circumstances where this works cos Im a noob and Im chicken.
And since Im really new and their arnt any confirmed successful attempts, I dont really want to be placed in a situation where if the experiment goes bad I have myself to blame because I bricked it at worst or at least cant restore it to factory default to try again or at least put the device in a state where the telco can unlock it for me. Am I being defeatist? So Glum.
Maybe I should do more hunting on this forum to get my SGP771 network unlocked.
Again thanks for your help.

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