I am rooted, have TWRP, am running stock sense 6 with 4.4.2, s-on. I want to completely get rid of anything and everything including the root. Is there a foolproof, simple way to do that? Just a heads up I am not very good at any of this, installing an RUU or anything of the like is way out of my level. All im asking is a simple breakdown of what I have to do. I also have a Mac, so some options seem to be crossed out for me.
RUU is not above your head. Especially if you unlocked the bootloader, rooted, etc. yourself. Even if not, the RUU is a tool issued by HTC for "regular" folks (with no knowledge whatsoever of modding phones) to recover their devices in various situations.
RUU is easy:
- Relock the bootloader with the command: fastboot oem lock
- Connect the phone to PC
- Run the RUU, and the RUU program leads you through the rest.
I know you said you have a Mac, but surely you have a friend or family member with a PC that you can use for a half hour.
Honestly, IMO opinion its still easier than returning to stock by other methods, which would require:
- Finding the right stock ROM or stock nandroid for your firmware number
- Putting the stock ROM on the phone and flash with TWRP
- Find the right stock recovery for your stock ROM
- Flash using fastboot
- Relock the bootloader (depending on how "full stock" you want to go)
- Additionally, if you intend to update to current OS (Lollipop) you then need to install 4.4.4 and 5.0 OTAs to get fully current. RUU will update everything at one time.
With the above method, finding the right files is the potential pitfall; and one where many folks have trouble. So in addition to just having more steps, there is also much more potential for having problems with those steps (making the process even more time consuming and stressful).
On another note, you haven't given any background why you want to return to "stock". Once a phone is rooted, I seldom recommend going back to stock, with the exceptions of:
- You are selling or giving the phone away (you should still tell the buyer that the phone was previously modded)
- The phone was rooted by a previous owner, you have no intent to use such features, and just want to return to a fully stock condition
- You are suffering some issue that you think a return to stock will resolve (RUU is better in this case)
redpoint73 said:
RUU is not above your head. Especially if you unlocked the bootloader, rooted, etc. yourself. Even if not, the RUU is a tool issued by HTC for "regular" folks (with no knowledge whatsoever of modding phones) to recover their devices in various situations.
RUU is easy:
- Relock the bootloader with the command: fastboot oem lock
- Connect the phone to PC
- Run the RUU, and the RUU program leads you through the rest.
I know you said you have a Mac, but surely you have a friend or family member with a PC that you can use for a half hour.
Honestly, IMO opinion its still easier than returning to stock by other methods, which would require:
- Finding the right stock ROM or stock nandroid for your firmware number
- Putting the stock ROM on the phone and flash with TWRP
- Find the right stock recovery for your stock ROM
- Flash using fastboot
- Relock the bootloader (depending on how "full stock" you want to go)
- Additionally, if you intend to update to current OS (Lollipop) you then need to install 4.4.4 and 5.0 OTAs to get fully current. RUU will update everything at one time.
With the above method, finding the right files is the potential pitfall; and one where many folks have trouble. So in addition to just having more steps, there is also much more potential for having problems with those steps (making the process even more time consuming and stressful).
On another note, you haven't given any background why you want to return to "stock". Once a phone is rooted, I seldom recommend going back to stock, with the exceptions of:
- You are selling or giving the phone away (you should still tell the buyer that the phone was previously modded)
- The phone was rooted by a previous owner, you have no intent to use such features, and just want to return to a fully stock condition
- You are suffering some issue that you think a return to stock will resolve (RUU is better in this case)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you said about how infuriating it is finding the right files and all is what motivated me to want to start anew, maybe I will keep root then. I read up some guides online and have a better understanding of how RUUs work now. I only have one question left, how would I input the command to relock the bootloader? I understand you have to go into the command prompt window, but do i just type it in? I thought I had to navigate to my phone through it somehow. Hopefully that made sense in some way.
xeamless said:
I only have one question left, how would I input the command to relock the bootloader? I understand you have to go into the command prompt window, but do i just type it in? I thought I had to navigate to my phone through it somehow. Hopefully that made sense in some way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You still haven't provided any background on whether you rooted the phone yourself. If you did, you should already have fastboot setup on your computer; as you would have needed it to issue the bootloader unlock command. So open the command prompt, than you need to change directory to whatever folder your fastboot files (fastboot.exe if on a PC) are located. Then simply type the command.
If you don't have fastboot setup on your computer, that is a different story, and you would need to do so (can give details if you indicate that is the case).
redpoint73 said:
You still haven't provided any background on whether you rooted the phone yourself. If you did, you should already have fastboot setup on your computer; as you would have needed it to issue the bootloader unlock command. So open the command prompt, than you need to change directory to whatever folder your fastboot files (fastboot.exe if on a PC) are located. Then simply type the command.
If you don't have fastboot setup on your computer, that is a different story, and you would need to do so (can give details if you indicate that is the case).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I followed everything you said and it all worked out! Thanks
xeamless said:
So I followed everything you said and it all worked out! Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet, glad it worked out for you. You're quite welcome.
Related
Good ghod what a state I've managed to get myself into: I've been unlocking/re-locking my phone (ROM: OTA ICS, S-On, Unlocked, Rooted) for right at a year now, but, during the recent OTA update push, I managed to get it into a state where it will no longer unlock. My (long, sorry) story follows...
I started receiving the recent OTA push two or three weeks ago. The problem is that I'd renamed the HTClinkifydispacher apk and odex files, and added a couple of things to /system/app/build.prop so the update would fail. Why was this such an immediate problem? Because I use my phone for an alarm clock and would wake up on random days to see it booted to recovery---after having overslept. Grrr.
Being the impulsive guy that I am, rather than just ask here how to stop the f$*kin' update, I found and saved the OTA.zip file to my sdcard, fixed the two problems I was having, re-locked the bootloader, and booted to recovery. Next, I *thought* I picked the OTA zip file to install... but I was wrong.
For at least one reason (I wanted to install a kernel with tun.ko installed so I could use a VPN network connection), I had a copy of SebastianFM's 1.4 overclocked kernel zip on my sdcard and mistakenly picked *it* instead of the OTA zip (hey, the fonts are small in Amon Ra). Well, that install failed, and, when I saw what I'd done, I thought "uh oh," so I rebooted the phone fully to see if I'd done any damage. None was apparent. So I moved on, once again re-booting into recovery and (this time successfully) installing the OTA zip.
Woo-hoo!
I thought I was golden, but I was wrong: Using my original unlock code and an up-to-date copy of the Android SDK on my linux box, I tried to reflash the unlocktoken partition using the fastboot command. My cursor froze/still freezes at something like "[0kb downloaded]..." It's almost like I've lost permission to write to that partition in the bootloader.
After the first sixteen times of trying various re-flashes of the August OTA, I thought "Gee, maybe it's something to do with the firmware," and since doing something is almost always worse than doing nothing (yes, that's what I meant to say), I did the only thing I could do: I flashed the Global Update RUU zip from October that I got off of Android Police's site. It's a great ROM; unfortunately, I still cannot unlock my bootloader.
In anticipation of some possible questions, let me add that
(1) I've factory reset any number of times;
(2) When I did the flashes, I immediately re-flashed a second time to ensure that the flashes took;
(3) When I connect my USB cable, I see "Fastboot USB" light up in the fastboot section of HBOOT.
(4) When I issue any other fastboot command, such as "fastboot devices" or "fastboot get_identifier_token", I get responses from the phone.
(5) Even though I have my original Unlock_code.bin file from HTCdev, I went through the whole unlock process from that site (sent a new identifier token; got the Unlock_code.bin back; tried "fastboot flash unlocktoken Unlock_code.bin") on two other occasions. Interestingly, the identifier_tokens would vary, but any new Unlock_code.bin files have all been identical---if the md5sum hash can be trusted to distinguish them.
Can anyone out there in expert-land help me figure out how to re-unlock my bootloader?! !? Beer can be involved.
Many thanks for your patience and kind consideration...
cheers,
john
Hey All,
So, I'd like to first say thanks to all of you who read and considered throwing in an opinion on how I might move forward with my little problem.
Secondly, I have some followup from HTC, which spawns a followup question. Please read on...
Since my OP, I have been in a back and forth with HTC about what I did to my phone that has left me unable to re-unlock it. Their answer, in a nutshell, was that I'd accepted the update while my phone had a 3rd-party recovery on it. Guilty as charged, I did; Amon Ra 3.15.
More specifically, they wrote: "If any portion of this check fails due to the stock recovery not being present, the update may load but the security sector will not authenticate. This may be blocking the re-unlock."
If you're like me, you'll note that there are a couple of "may"s in those two sentences that have left me wondering if they're just giving me a stock "I really don't know what the hell happened to your phone" answer.
So just to satisfy my curiosity, has anyone else out there ever had a problem flashing OTAs while having a 3rd-party recovery on their phones?
thanks again,
john
There's a couple threads about the recent OTA, one in General and one in this section. People posted about their various experiences, you might find some useful info in those.
I wonder if you can s-off at this point and fix your issue? I don't know if you need to be unlocked to s-off, I know you end up locked, but if not, that would give you the freedom to flash what you want without needing to be "unlocked".
feralicious said:
There's a couple threads about the recent OTA, one in General and one in this section. People posted about their various experiences, you might find some useful info in those.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I've looked through them and had no luck finding anything relevant to my case.
feralicious said:
I wonder if you can s-off at this point and fix your issue? I don't know if you need to be unlocked to s-off, I know you end up locked, but if not, that would give you the freedom to flash what you want without needing to be "unlocked".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone has to be unlocked to do the s-off thing.
thanks,
john
Update: Problem Solved!
Hey All,
As the post title states, I finally did get this sorted out.
The solution? Borrowing a windows 7 computer, downloading the HTC device drivers, fastboot and adb, and then merely running the 'fastboot flash' thing. Like I'd done a thousand times already on my linux system. Sheesh.
Thanks to all who read or contributed to this thread...
cheers,
john
Hey guys. Need a big hand here. So I have a HTC One on contract from Three in the UK.
I rooted the phone and all that jazz and decided on putting a custom ROM on my device.
However while in TWRP I wiped the phone and seemingly all the contents on it, including TWRP.
Now I have a bricked phone that boots into recovery/ the bootloader only. I've tried flasing
RUU files on but it fails with the error code 140? I don't know much about this I'm quite a noob.
In recovery the information is as follows:
*** TAMPERED ***
*** RELOCKED ***
*** SECURITY WARNING ***
M7_UL PVT SHIP S-ON RH
HBOOT- 1.54.0000
RADIO-4A. 17. 3250. 14
OpenDSP-v31.120.274.0617
OS-2.24.401.0
eMMC-boot 2048MB
Please help me. I've read through wonderful guides by other patrons on this website but nothing seems to work.
I'm at my wits end.
Thank you in advance for any help.
I know very little about this, but just to brainstorm (and confirm a few basic facts):
When you rooted originally, did you use HTC's bootloader unlocker or a different method to unlock the bootloader?
How are you flashing ROMS? Are you doing everything through the phone (example, using one-touch-root apps) or are you using the Android Debug Bridge?
The bootloader typically comes with options to reboot, boot into recovery, factory reset, etc. Can you confirm that these options have disappeared (or never existed in the first place)?
My knee-jerk reaction is that you didn't use an HTC bootloader unlocker and, therefore, the HTC GUU detects a bootloader mismatch and aborts. Therefore, you need to see if there's a way to flash a stock HTC bootloader (which, I can tell you from experience, is usually a one-way-trip to super-bricking) or see if the bootloader you already have installed can be unlocked through the ADB.
In my very limited experience and understanding of Android, it's generally pretty difficult to wipe the recovery partition from within the phone - one generally as to flash it from ADB or screw with the bootloader in some way to wipe it. I wonder, therefore, whether the recovery partition is just fine but maybe the bootloader is throwing a fit because it's not the HTC default.
I'm sure you've tried or thought of all of this, but since nobody else is stepping up, I thought I'd help brainstorm a bit and keep the thread fresh.
Borden Rhodes said:
I know very little about this, but just to brainstorm (and confirm a few basic facts):
When you rooted originally, did you use HTC's bootloader unlocker or a different method to unlock the bootloader?
How are you flashing ROMS? Are you doing everything through the phone (example, using one-touch-root apps) or are you using the Android Debug Bridge?
The bootloader typically comes with options to reboot, boot into recovery, factory reset, etc. Can you confirm that these options have disappeared (or never existed in the first place)?
My knee-jerk reaction is that you didn't use an HTC bootloader unlocker and, therefore, the HTC GUU detects a bootloader mismatch and aborts. Therefore, you need to see if there's a way to flash a stock HTC bootloader (which, I can tell you from experience, is usually a one-way-trip to super-bricking) or see if the bootloader you already have installed can be unlocked through the ADB.
In my very limited experience and understanding of Android, it's generally pretty difficult to wipe the recovery partition from within the phone - one generally as to flash it from ADB or screw with the bootloader in some way to wipe it. I wonder, therefore, whether the recovery partition is just fine but maybe the bootloader is throwing a fit because it's not the HTC default.
I'm sure you've tried or thought of all of this, but since nobody else is stepping up, I thought I'd help brainstorm a bit and keep the thread fresh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I unlocked the bootloader originally by getting a specific code from HTC and using it through the command prompt I think. I can go into the bootloader and it has all the fastboot, recovery, factory reset business there. Trying factory reset does nothing. I've downloaded HTC toolkit 2.2 and I tried initially pushing ROMS to flash to TWRP, but it would never detect my phone. Then I stupidly did a full wipe through TWRP and now that's disappeared. All that's left is the bootloader now. I've tried forcing RUU updates through the HTC toolkit but it always fails. So does running the normal RUU process. I can't seem to find the correct one for Three UK. The most I've been able to do is re-lock the bootloader and I'm running out of ideas. Thank you for your reply. I feel so helpless!.
If I've read your message correctly, you are doing everything through the HTC toolkit and not through the Android SDK. Frankly, I don't know how the former works. Especially if the HTC Toolkit isn't detecting your phone, you may want to run over to http://developer.android.com/sdk/ and fetch the SDK for your system and set it up. You don't need the ADT Bundle, just the SDK Tools link at the bottom. This may make it easier for other, more knowledgeable people debug your phone, since they all use the SDK. The weaponry you'll be using is all in the <sdk install location>/tools directory, so get a command prompt window pointed there (by the by, are you using Windows, Mac or Linux?)
If you already have your SDK up, or once you do, you'll want to get familiar with the fastboot command, described in this post: forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2277112 . What we want to do is see whether we can flash a new recovery ROM.
As long as you don't attempt to flash over the bootloader, you shouldn't super-brick your phone. Based on the message in your original post, your bootloader may have relocked itself. If your first attempt at installing a new recovery ROM doesn't work, then you'll have to use the procedure you used originally to unlock your bootloader. If you've forgotten how to do that, then these instructions (which assume you're using the SDK) should help: http://wiki.cyanogenmod.org/w/Install_CM_for_m7.
You're currently using TWRP, which I've personally found buggy. Until you have a functioning phone again, you may want to use ClockworkMod (CWM) Recovery instead: http://www.clockworkmod.com/rommanager. It has fewer features, but at least they work properly. If flashing ROMs over fastboot is new to you, there are plenty of guides on the Interwebs to help you. I'll also try to walk you through it if you let me know where you're getting stuck. The critical thing, considering that there are many types of HTC One, is to make sure that you flash the ROM that exactly matches your phone. If you flash the wrong ROM, you probably won't break your phone any more than it is, but let's try not to test that theory. If you're not positive which phone you have, say so and we'll help you find out.
Let us know once you have CWM on your phone or where you got stuck. The advantage of using the SDK, too, is that you can copy and paste the output right back to the forum.
I hope I understood everything correctly. Let me know if I haven't.
Hello. Thanks in advance for your time and advice.
I've got a brand new HTC One M8, AT&T, firmware says 4.4.2 with no available updates.
I want to create an initial backup. I'm a computer technician, and just dabbling in Android, and it's important for me to make a "clone" of my phone before I proceed to wreck things. (This is a replacement phone, the last one had a hardware issue... I swear... I managed to install ViperOne onto it, for a week before the screen faded to white and died.)
I assume I'll need root access to make a proper backup. I also assume I should use Nandroid. I've not used the app before, but I'm sure I can figure it out. As far as root goes, I previously used Hasoon2000's HTC One 2014 (M8) All-In-One Toolkit, which worked well, as far as I could tell. (It's a visual basic program with scripts to download drivers, register at htcdev, get token id, submit it, unlock bootloader, flash recovery, and lots of nice ADB commands. Is this a good option to use? I hear many people use S-Off, but I don't really see a need... ?
So, I assume I'll need a new token ID from HTC, as the previous one I got corresponds to the old, malfunctioning phone.
After it's unlocked, I'd use the toolkit to grant perm root. That would be a great place to be for now. I plan to wait until the 4.4.4 update is pushed, then worry about installing a new rom.
Am I on the right track?
For the AT&T version (and most the major US carrier versions) we are lucky enough to have RUUs. So really, no need to backup the stock configuration. If you like, grab the RUUs and save them to your computer so you have them ready if and when it is needed.
Nandroid isn't a specific app, its just a generic term for a backup made with recovery. The custom recovery is your choice: TWRP, Clockworkmod, Philz.
Just a personal opinion, I would actually strongly recommend against using the toolkit for a couple reasons: most importantly using the toolkit robs you of an important learning opportunity. Doing the steps "manually" is a key way to learning your way around fastboot/adb. Doing the steps manually isn't that hard, and shortcutting the process with the toolkit really doesn't gain you much. Another key issue, is the toolkit introduces an additional point of failure. In fact, I've seen folks have trouble doing some of the steps with the toolkit; where doing the steps "manually" worked without a hitch. And the toolkit hasn't been updated for a long time, and will install an obsolete version of TWRP recovery, which in itself can cause issues.
If you used the toolkit before, you can certainly use it again. This is likely the path of "least" resistance, the the "easy" way to do things. But I wouldn't necessarily call it the "best" way to do it. If you don't already know your way around adb, I would do the steps manually. Since you have a background in computers, you will probably even find the manual process more enjoyable.
Yes, you would need to unlock the bootloader again via HTCDev.com, as the unlock bin code in based on the phone's unique IMEI.
The process would be as simple as unlocking the bootloader using HTCDev.com (very easy, the website is self-explanatory). Use fastboot to install custom recovery. Then to gain root, just flash SU or SuperSU in recovery. If you need a step-by-step guide, there is an excellent one here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2799796
But also be aware that once the 4.4.4 OTA rolls out, you will need to return to stock recovery, and also restore any system files modifed by root, in order to install the OTA.
Thanks, redpoint73
Exactly the answer I was looking for. The guide looks great. Looks like there's a lot of useful information about reverting to stock, too. I guess I'll have a go at it now, as opposed to waiting for the update. Like you say, it's good to know things. Thanks much.
@redpoint73
Now I'm only asking cause I don't know everything. Couldn't those who have S-off just RUU the update once available instead of reverting to complete stock state(no root,no custom recovery, locked Bootlaoder)?
AT&T HTC ONE M8
jball said:
@redpoint73
Now I'm only asking cause I don't know everything. Couldn't those who have S-off just RUU the update once available instead of reverting to complete stock state(no root,no custom recovery, locked Bootlaoder)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Absolutely. In fact S-off is not even required to run an RUU intended for your version (AT&T). If s-on, the added step of relocking the bootloader is all that is needed to run the RUU.
HTC seems to have gotten better about releasing the RUUs promptly. In fact, the previous (ill fated) 4.4.3 update saw the RUU and OTA roll out on the same day. Although this hasn't always been the case. On past devices, the RUUs were not released for weeks (sometimes longer) after the OTA started to roll out. And many folks don't want to wait that long.
Also, relocking the bootloader is not required to OTA, only to RUU.
FOUND THE RECOVERY (See below)
Right now my goal is to go back to stock to flash the OTA Update. I am running my nandroid back up I first made when which is the 4.4.4 w/ Software # 1.58.502.1. and right now I have TWRP as my recovery.
Also can someone confirm something for me. This nandroid I am running is rooted obviously and has SuperUser on it. If I go back to the stock recovery can I still do the OTA update even though SuperUser is there and the phone is unlocked?
Also in order to get the stock recovery back on the phone I need to use ABD and the windows command prompt method correct?
Thanks
found this link and was able to find the stock recovery finally. I clicked "Non-WWE- Recovery Images" Ten on the site it opens I clicked the more recoveries folder at the top and 1.58.502.1 was the first one.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2701376
Now the only thing I need to know is if going back to stock recovery will allow me to update to OTA even though there is SuperUser on my device and even though I am rooted and unlock (S-on)
magicbumm328 said:
found this link and was able to find the stock recovery finally. I clicked "Non-WWE- Recovery Images" Ten on the site it opens I clicked the more recoveries folder at the top and 1.58.502.1 was the first one.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2701376
Now the only thing I need to know is if going back to stock recovery will allow me to update to OTA even though there is SuperUser on my device and even though I am rooted and unlock (S-on)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As long as the ROM is stock (nothing modified by root) and stock recovery, you can update by OTA (root okay, unlocked bootloader okay).
Another option, just relock the bootloader and run the 4.4.4 RUU. It saves you from all the hassle (finding stock ROM and stock recovery), plus installing 2 OTAs. Only reason to do it the way you are, is to keep user data (RUU wipes phone) and it also saves you from having to relock.
redpoint73 said:
As long as the ROM is stock (nothing modified by root) and stock recovery, you can update by OTA (root okay, unlocked bootloader okay).
Another option, just relock the bootloader and run the 4.4.4 RUU. It saves you from all the hassle (finding stock ROM and stock recovery), plus installing 2 OTAs. Only reason to do it the way you are, is to keep user data (RUU wipes phone) and it also saves you from having to relock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I do have the stock ROM. Idk if it having super user on it counts as being modified by root though? If not then its fine. And as mentioned I found the stock recovery as well.
The only reason I was looking to do it this way was because I do not really know what RUU is or how to do any of it. Idk how difficult it would be to relock the boot loader then figure out the RUU thing. Idk what the differences are between that and my phone being rooted as it is now are. I'll have to see if there is a thread that explains this RUU thing to me.
Thanks for the help and suggestion too btw
magicbumm328 said:
Well I do have the stock ROM. Idk if it having super user on it counts as being modified by root though? If not then its fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SuperUser is same as root, and is fine.
When I say "modifed by root" that often is when a user deletes "bloatware" they don't want, or adds apps, or modifies apps in the system partition.
If you didn't explicitly do any of those things, you should be fine. You will know this is the problem when you install the OTA, as the install will fail with the error message that the "system has been modified".
magicbumm328 said:
The only reason I was looking to do it this way was because I do not really know what RUU is or how to do any of it. Idk how difficult it would be to relock the boot loader then figure out the RUU thing. Idk what the differences are between that and my phone being rooted as it is now are. I'll have to see if there is a thread that explains this RUU thing to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RUU = ROM update utility
RUU is super easy, you don't really need much guidance to use it. LOCKED or RELOCKED bootloader is required to run it (UNLOCKED if okay if you have s-off). PC required, and the RUU will wipe the phone (so backup any personal data you want to keep, into your PC, cloud, etc.). Aside from those points, RUU is a self-explanatory executable (.exe) program that runs from your PC, and simple to use.
Relocking the bootloader is accomplished easily with a single fastboot command (after connecting phone to PC and booting into fastboot mode): fastboot oem lock
This is also assuming you did the bootloader unlock yourself, and therefore have fastboot/adb setup on your computer.
Running the RUU itself (after relocking the bootloader) is very easy. Boot into OS (some folks have better success being booted into fastboot mode, but I think the RUU is designed to run when booted into OS), connect to PC, then just run the RUU executable on your PC. The RUU executable will then just guide you what you need to do. Its mostly automated, you just need to confirm a few dialogue screens, etc. The RUU will reboot the phone a couple times, install the needed files automatically, and that's really it.
However, since you seem confidant you already have a stock ROM and corresponding stock recovery, I suppose the RUU doesn't gain you too much. But if you hadn't done those steps already, it often saves folks the hassle of tracking down the right stock ROM and recovery for their CID and current firmware. RUU in my opinion is a cleaner install, as it installs a complete stock image (not just updating piecemeal, like an OTA often does).
Also, since OTAs typically need to be installed in sequence, you will probably need to OTA to 2.23 software, than another OTA to 3.42 software. As RUU is a complete image, it would get you to 3.42 software in one fell swoop.
One other thing to note, is that if you are for some reason not connected to AT&T's network (using another carrier, another country, etc.) you will not get any OTAs on the AT&T branded device. AT&T oddity here, most other version will still OTA, even when not connected to a specific carrier. In contrast the AT&T RUU is able to be downloaded and run by anyone with an internet connection and PC (regardless of country, carrier, etc.). I'm under the assumption that most folks on this forum section are on AT&T's network, although I know that some are not (you haven't stated either way).
RUU links are included on my Index thread under heading "RUUs": http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2751432
Aside from wiping the phone (OTA keeps user data, but you may end up wiping anyway if you run into bugs after OTA), the other downside to RUU is that you need to relock the bootloader. Then you need to unlock the bootloader again (via the HTCDev.com site, or alternately sunshine) if you want to install custom recovery, install custom ROMs, root, etc.
So the choice is really yours (RUU versus OTA). I'm just giving it as an alternative.
Software up to date issue
HI all, just got this M8 and it is an ATT Version. but I believe it is unlocked because I am using it with cricket.
When trying to update Android Tells me software is up to date ?
Android version 5.0.2
HTC Sense Version 6.0
Software Number 4.28.502.1
HTC SDK API Level
I am pretty sure that ATT has updated to Marshmallow by now / So why can't I update? I am on wifi and 4G/LTE Could it be because I am using a Cricket Sim Card in the Phone ?
I have downloaded the RUU for Marshmallow software version 6.20.502.5. Should I continue with the Manual update ?
I believe this phone was originally purchased from ATT on May of 2016 if it makes any difference , figured I post it. since it could be a newer version of HTC M8.
Also is there a way to back up my current stock rom, without Rooting phone ? Thanks for all your help.
As I cannot root my phone, because when I go into developer option and search for S-off That option is not there and I can't Continue.
My responses below in red font:
ELEVO said:
HI all, just got this M8 and it is an ATT Version. but I believe it is unlocked because I am using it with cricket.
When trying to update Android Tells me software is up to date ?
I am pretty sure that ATT has updated to Marshmallow by now / So why can't I update? I am on wifi and 4G/LTE Could it be because I am using a Cricket Sim Card in the Phone ?
That is correct, the AT&t version (and most US versions) can only OTA update if connected to the proper branded carrier (AT&T in this case). Therefore, the RUU is your best option to update.
I have downloaded the RUU for Marshmallow software version 6.20.502.5. Should I continue with the Manual update ?
You can. But you need to flash the 6.20.502.5 firmware first, before you can flash the RUU. See instructions to flash the firmware here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=67123738&postcount=7
Then run the RUU. Keep in mind, that RUU will wipe the phone. So backup your data to an off-phone location (cloud, computer, etc.) before RUU.
Also is there a way to back up my current stock rom, without Rooting phone ? The current Lollipop ROM? No, there will be no way to revert to LP by official means, once you RUU to Marshmallow. I doubt you will find the need or desire to "downgrade" to obsolete LP version. If for some reason you did want to, there are options, but would require unlocking the bootloader (to install custom recovery and flash a Lollipop ROM), or s-off (which would allow you to "downgrade" by RUU - which is not allowed with s-on).
As I cannot root my phone, because when I go into developer option and search for S-off That option is not there and I can't Continue.
You are misunderstanding a couple things:
1) s-off is not a setting in Developer Options. s-off can only be obtained with sunshine app ($25)
2) You don't need s-off to root this device. Simply unlock the bootloader, install TWRP, and flash SuperSU to root
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Detailed
redpoint73 said:
My responses below in red font:
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Thanks for the detailed reply, really helpful and greatly appreciated :good:
Two more Questions, Can I upgrade to an official DEV Edition RUU on this ATT Device? or would I have to use a Custom Dev ROM ? as I am trying to Tether with my phone, just like my official Developer HTC M8 I purchased in 2014 , Seems AT&T phone wont allow me to Tether ?
Also once I flash firmware and upgrade to official RUU will need to Unlock and Root Loader? Will doing upgrading to official Marshmallow Relock bootloader and Un Root Phone ? Back to Stock ? Thanks again, I will be attempting this pretty soon. Thanks again
For the Record, I have made a back up of my Lollipop via TWRK. I also backed it up using Titanium back up, just in case.
Again, my responses in red font:
ELEVO said:
Thanks for the detailed reply, really helpful and greatly appreciated :good:
You're welcome. Always happy to help!
Two more Questions, Can I upgrade to an official DEV Edition RUU on this ATT Device?
You can't flash the Dev Edition RUU with s-on. Even though the versions are very similar (same model ID - MID) the two versions have different carrier ID (CID). Wrong carrier ID will make the Dev Ed RUU fail, by definition. And the only way to change CID is with s-off. Further, its not really necessary to flash the Dev Ed RUU (and not worth spending money of s-off) to accomplish what you want (see more below)
or would I have to use a Custom Dev ROM ? as I am trying to Tether with my phone, just like my official Developer HTC M8 I purchased in 2014 , Seems AT&T phone wont allow me to Tether ?
Its correct that the AT&T stock ROM disables tethering. Flashing most custom ROMs (or the Dev Ed ROM) will enable tethering - as well as remove annoying AT&T branding and bloat apps. Flashing the Dev Ed RUU is not necessary to accomplish this.
Also once I flash firmware and upgrade to official RUU will need to Unlock and Root Loader? Will doing upgrading to official Marshmallow Relock bootloader and Un Root Phone ? Back to Stock ? Thanks again, I will be attempting this pretty soon. Thanks again
You need to relock the bootloader in order to flash firmware and RUU (command: fastboot oem lock). Once the RUU is complete, the phone will be on a fully stock "factory" image. So you will be unrooted. You will also be back to stock recovery (no longer have TWRP installed). From there, what you want to do:
1) Unlock the bootloader again. Either use the same unlock bin code you used to unlock BL before. Or get a new code from HTCDev.com
2) Flash TWRP back to the phone with fastboot. TWRP 3.0.2 is recommended for compatibility with MM firmware.
3) Flash the desired custom ROM. The custom ROM will be rooted (if you flash the Dev Ed ROM, you can select root in the AROMA installer).
For the Record, I have made a back up of my Lollipop via TWRK. I also backed it up using Titanium back up, just in case.
Always good to make backups. Although be aware, that RUU will wipe the phone, including internal storage. So if you picked internal storage as your backup location, you'll want to move/copy to another location (removable SD is okay, otherwise to computer or cloud).
Also note that restoring app data (as well as call logs, SMS) using Titanium, after RUU or ROM flash should be okay. But don't restore any system data, as this can cause problems.
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redpoint73 said:
Again, my responses in red font:
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Ok i came back to this old post. I forgot all about it, it really is helping me alot.
My questioin is after i Relock the bootloader can i do a factory wipe? will this remove everything from my phone and bring it back to stock?
I relocked my phone, but all my apps and contacts are their.
Bricked ?
ELEVO said:
Ok i came back to this old post. I forgot all about it, it really is helping me alot.
My questioin is after i Relock the bootloader can i do a factory wipe? will this remove everything from my phone and bring it back to stock?
I relocked my phone, but all my apps and contacts are their.
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I think i may have bricked my phone? I went and installed an RUU firmware file for Marshmallow as most instruct to do via Fastboot. All went well, installation completed and i was able to send command to phone to reboot. when it tried to reboot. white screen with HTC Comes on and then goes almost black with a very light dark grey background.
Phone would not reboot into anything but dark screen. even when i restarted it with power button. the only thing that worked for me, was Holding Down Power/Volume and quickly hit the volume down button before device would vibrate to reboot, that took me into recovery. Below is what i see in Recovery.
Phone now has new software
***RELOCKED***
m8_UL_CA PVT SHIP S-ON
HBOOT-3.1.0.0000
RADIO-4.0 [email protected]
OpenDSP-V56.2.2-00593-M8974_FO.0126
0S-6.20.502.5
eMMC-boot 2048MB
APR 14 2016,19:39:46.0
HBOOT
<Vol UP> to previous item
<Vol Down> to next item
<Power> to select item
FASTBOOT
RECOVERY
FACTORY RESET
SIMLOCK
CHECK SMARTSD
IMAGE CRC
SHOW BARCODE
I was able to run and "IMAGE CRC" via boot loader. it gave me alot of numbers after calculating. not sure if that is a good sign ?
Things I've tried in Recovery.
1. Recovery goes back to black screen.
2. SHOW BARCODE Works- 3 bar codes showed up.
3. Fastboot works. but when i try command "adb devices" it says list of devices attached. but nothing shows up
4. Tried to do a factory reset and tries to do it, then a black phone pops up on screen with green arrow sgoing in circles for like 10 seconds. then reboots to dark screen.
Please Help :crying: Thanks
Can anyone help me with this? I bought the phone with me on vacation and now using an HTC Developer Edition that the button down doesn't work and Volume down button us sunk in But at least i have my phone with all my contacts and apps , For now ?
I would like to know if i can unbrick my other HTC . Thanks.
Late in responding, as I was on work travel myself, and not on XDA for over a week.
ELEVO said:
I think i may have bricked my phone?
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It's basically impossible for you to do anything with an s-on M8 that will actually brick it. That is the good thing about s-on.
ELEVO said:
I went and installed an RUU firmware file for Marshmallow as most instruct to do via Fastboot. All went well, installation completed and i was able to send command to phone to reboot. when it tried to reboot. white screen with HTC Comes on and then goes almost black with a very light dark grey background.
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I think you only flashed the firmware.zip and not the RUU. Based on the condition here, and your other thread you created here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/htc-one-m8/help/htc-one-e-m8-fastboot-issues-t3757628
I clearly described above to flash the firmware.zip then the RUU. They are 2 completely different things. Firmware is about 80 MB and only contains hboot, radio, and a few other things. RUU is a full image that is 1.5 GB.
No boot after flashing signed firmware is normal, as it expects the RUU to be run afterwards.
ELEVO said:
Fastboot works. but when i try command "adb devices" it says list of devices attached. but nothing shows up
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adb doesn't work in fastboot mode. Only fastboot commands will work in fastboot mode. You can only use adb when booted to OS (not an option for you, obviously) or alternately in custom recovery TWRP. So what you describe (adb not working) is normal and expected.
However, fastboot is enough to get the phone working from the described condition.