Related
The number one reason people brick their Verizon Galaxy S4 phones is due to attempts to flash recovery using Goo Manager, dd, and other tools without understanding when those will or won't work. The Verizon S4 is very locked down, and will reject such attempts in most cases.
The only Verizon Galaxy S4 release that permits a custom recovery is a phone with the original MDK bootloader. Not checking first to tell what's installed before flashing will often break your phone.
1. What releases are there, and how can you tell what you have?
There are currently 7 different releases of the firmware for the I545.
VRUAMDK (Usually called just "MDK")
VRUAME7 ("ME7")
VRUDMI1 ("MI1")
VRUEMJ7 ("MJ7")
VRUEMK2 ("MK2")
VRUFNC2 ("NC2")
VRUFNC5 ("NC5")
There's another release that was apparently a leak or limited release, MG7.
You've got to know what bootloader and firmware you have installed before you do anything. The bootloader is the critical thing, but unless you're using a MDK bootloader, chances are that the bootloader on your phone is the same as the build version. To figure out what you're running, use the "Settings", "More", "About phone" menu. In most cases, the "Baseband version" displayed and the "Build number" will be the same, which tells you what build you're on. The best way to tell what bootloader you have is to install an app - "Phone INFO *Samsung*" and "Phone info" will both tell you what build and bootloader you have.
The "Developer Edition" devices have "I545OYUA" build numbers versus the consumer versions, which start with I545VR.
Once you're on a particular build, it is not possible to downgrade to an earlier release. The single exception to this is that you can flash MJ7 over MK2, but that's it.
If you're past MDK, you can't bypass the bootloader until an exploit is found.
If you start flashing things without verifying that it's for the release on YOUR phone, you risk bricking it. There's dozens of youtube videos telling you how to flash custom recovery on your phone that WILL NOT WORK unless you're on the MDK bootloader. Be sure to comment in the youtube thread after they assist you with bricking your phone.
If you need to tell for sure what bootloader you're on, you can use applications like "Android System Info" (Open the "System" tab and the "Buildinfos" and look for Bootloader), or from a shell by using the command "getprop ro.bootloader". Use either adb shell or the "Terminal Emulator" app to do that.
2. What can you do with your phone?
Rooting:
For MDK, root using this link. or this link.
For ME7, root using this link.
For MI1, root using this link.
For MJ7 and MK2, root using this link.
For NC2 and NC5, you can't currrently root unless you downgrade the baseband to MK2.
If you want to install a custom recovery, you MUST have the MDK bootloader. Follow the MDK link above.
If the bootloader isn't "I545VRUAMDK" you have a locked bootloader and can only use Safestrap to install custom ROMs. Custom recovery is not possible. Attempts to install custom recovery will soft-brick your phone and require you to re-flash a stock ROM.
Information on Safestrap is available in this thread.
Recover by re-flashing stock
For MDK, Follow this link.
For ME7,Follow this link.
For MI1, Follow this link.
For MJ7, there's a no-wipe and a full wipe image.
For MK2, Follow this link.
Flash new Modems
The firmware that runs the phone's radios, which allows you to connect to the networks (CDMA, LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth) can be updated independently of the bootloader. Flashing the MJ7 modem can get you new LTE bands, for example. Read here for information on available modems.
3. What to avoid
Every carrier's version of the Galaxy S4 is different. Things that work for the Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile, and other carriers phones may not work on the Verizon version and can lead to bricking your phone. Don't do things just because it works on the T-mo, AT&T, or sprint phones unless you don't care if your phone is rendered useless.
Regardless of what you read, recommendations to use Goo Manager to flash custom recovery will not work and will soft brick your phone unless you're running the MDK bootloader. Don't do that.
If you manage to do the wrong thing and soft-brick your phone, search the Android Development forum for a factory image that can be flashed to recover it based on what baseband you started with.
For example, this image for MJ7 (Android 4.3).
I posted this hoping it would become a sticky.
Moderators: any chance? Or is this unacceptable since it's not a question?
k1mu said:
I posted this hoping it would become a sticky.
Moderators: any chance? Or is this unacceptable since it's not a question?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this really needs to be a sticky as we all know how many aren't taking the time to more than a cursory check in these threads
---------- Post added at 06:16 AM ---------- Previous post was at 06:09 AM ----------
k1mu said:
The number one reason people brick their Verizon Galaxy S4 phones is due to attempts to flash recovery using Goo Manager, dd, and other tools without understanding when those will or won't work. The Verizon S4 is very locked down, and will reject such attempts in most cases.
The only Verizon Galaxy S4 release that permits a custom recovery is the original MDK baseband. Not checking first before flashing will often break your phone.
If you need to know what baseband you're on, use "Settings", "More", "About phone" and scroll down to the "Baseband Version".
Every carrier's version of the Galaxy S4 is different. Things that work for the Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile, and other carriers phones may not work on the Verizon version and can lead to bricking your phone. Don't do things just because it works on the T-mo, AT&T, or sprint phones unless you don't care if your phone is rendered useless.
Regardless of what you read, recommendations to use Goo Manager to flash custom recoverywill not work and will soft brick your phone unless you're on the MDK baseband. Don't do that.
If you manage to do the wrong thing and soft-brick your phone, search the Android Development forum for a factory image that can be flashed to recover it based on what baseband you started with.
For example, this image for MJ7 (Android 4.3).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
k1mu, I also created a step by step guide (with links) that walks you thru the entire process of going from ME7/MI1 to MJ7 by flashing the wipe tar image of MJ7, installing your saferoot, safestrap and HD11
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2579278
I was feeling pretty bad for all the people that were messing up their phone becasue od not understanding the entire process.
Props to you both ! The only thing I would emphasize for MDK users is to get yourself educated (plenty of threads) on the Loki process. The proper use of it when flashing unfamiliar recoveries or kernels can save alot of headaches (trust me I know !!)
Bumping
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
MJ7
Excuse my ignorance but I am running what I believe to be MDK but I updated my modem to MJ7 and now my baseband says MJ7. I have the latest TWRP installed. I am not running SafeStrap. Should this situation be noted in the thread?
sixtythreechevy said:
Excuse my ignorance but I am running what I believe to be MDK but I updated my modem to MJ7 and now my baseband says MJ7. I have the latest TWRP installed. I am not running SafeStrap. Should this situation be noted in the thread?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nope updating modem changes what your baseband version says.
For those who are unsure if you can install the custom recovery:
The BUILD must be MDK not the MODEM. If you are running different build you can flash different modems. Just because you have the MDK modem does not mean you can flash a custom recovery.
Yeah you can flash any baseband at any time you like...that's your radio/modem. You can also flash a new build as long as your bootloader remains on MDK. For example, I'm running a stock MJ7 ROM but I'm still Loki'd on the MDK bootloader.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk
ok heres my issue
Delete
What really matters here is what Bootloader you're running. Since updating the modem changes the Baseband string, that can't be used to tell if a phone is locked. I've updated the OP to say Bootloader version and to explain how to get to the Bootloader version.
FordNate said:
I'm MDK on the GS4 and believe me i knew about the whole Verizon/At&t/TMO long time ago (smarter than the average near and able to laugh at people when they do do things like that) ok so my issue i tried updating my recovery earlier to philz 6.08 from just CWM 6.0.44 (?). It soft bricked my phone. I just spent 7 hours getting it back to operational order. I tried everything under the sun, u name it i probably did it, but i kept with Verizon packages only. Trying to find a stock image of MDK is impossible to say the least. Good news though. its up and running again only issue i lost root
Root the first time was simple and maybe took 20 minutes. Now i cant get motochopper or any other exploit to to work. Phone "see's" that a program is trying to get access but does not allow me to accept it, only offers to reboot now or later. Help a man out here.. I'm still on mdk just cant get root back. yes i check usb debug even toggled it a couple times. Verify apps unchecked and unknown checked.. Dang Stock is not good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301720
tkacer said:
Have you tried this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2301720
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes and got it running again with root
Happy 4 ya - nothing worse than a borked phone !!!!
This I think has happened to me. I used Goo also. Now whenever I reboot it goes to the download screen. PITA. I am running build MK2. I am still unsure as to what I need to do to get back to a "before" state so I can do it properly?
ANy help appreciated.
THanks,
Derek
:crying:
dbinnc said:
This I think has happened to me. I used Goo also. Now whenever I reboot it goes to the download screen. PITA. I am running build MK2. I am still unsure as to what I need to do to get back to a "before" state so I can do it properly?
ANy help appreciated.
THanks,
Derek
:crying:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Install the MK2 no-wipe from here.
I want to bump this thread so we can use the OP as a starting point for a stickie guide concerning verizon S4 and what you need to know for modding your phone.
Naddict will be assisting in getting the sticky set up. This will be a WIP and will NOT be a thread to post questions. Lets get all our smart people contributing with info and links as needed to help all those who wish to mod their phone from not repeating all the same errors and bricking.
k1mu said:
The number one reason people brick their Verizon Galaxy S4 phones is due to attempts to flash recovery using Goo Manager, dd, and other tools without understanding when those will or won't work. The Verizon S4 is very locked down, and will reject such attempts in most cases.
The only Verizon Galaxy S4 release that permits a custom recovery is a phone with the original MDK bootloader. Not checking first to tell what's installed before flashing will often break your phone.
1. What releases are there, and how can you tell what you have?
There are currently 5 different releases of the firmware for the I545.
VRUAMDK (Usually called just "MDK")
VRUAME7 ("ME7")
VRUDMI1 ("MI1")
VRUEMJ7 ("MJ7")
VRUEMK2 ("MK2")
You've got to know what bootloader and firmware you have installed before you do anything. The bootloader is the critical thing, but unless you're using a MDK bootloader, chances are that the bootloader on your phone is the same as the build version. To figure out what you're running, use the "Settings", "More", "About phone" menu. In most cases, the "Baseband version" displayed and the "Build number" will be the same, which tells you what build you're on.
If you start flashing things without verifying that it's for YOUR phone, you risk bricking it.
If you need to tell for sure what bootloader you're on, you can use applications like "Android System Info" (Open the "System" tab and the "Buildinfos" and look for Bootloader), or from a shell by using the command "getprop ro.bootloader". Use either adb shell or the "Terminal Emulator" app to do that.
2. What can you do with your phone?
Rooting:
For MDK, root using this link. or this link.
For ME7, root using this link.
For MI1, root using this link.
For MJ7 and MK2, root using this link.
If you want to install a custom recovery, you MUST have the MDK bootloader. Follow the MDK link above.
If the bootloader isn't "I545VRUAMDK" you have a locked bootloader and can only use Safestrap to install custom ROMs. Custom recovery is not possible. Attempts to install custom recovery will soft-brick your phone and require you to re-flash a stock ROM.
Information on Safestrap is available in this thread.
Recover by re-flashing stock
For MDK, Follow this link.
For ME7,Follow this link.
For MI1, Follow this link.
For MJ7, there's a no-wipe and a full wipe image.
For MK2, Follow this link.
Flash new Modems
The firmware that runs the phone's radios, which allows you to connect to the networks (CDMA, LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth) can be updated independently of the bootloader. Flashing the MJ7 modem can get you new LTE bands, for example. Read here for information on available modems.
3. What to avoid
Every carrier's version of the Galaxy S4 is different. Things that work for the Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile, and other carriers phones may not work on the Verizon version and can lead to bricking your phone. Don't do things just because it works on the T-mo, AT&T, or sprint phones unless you don't care if your phone is rendered useless.
Regardless of what you read, recommendations to use Goo Manager to flash custom recoverywill not work and will soft brick your phone unless you're running the MDK bootloader. Don't do that.
If you manage to do the wrong thing and soft-brick your phone, search the Android Development forum for a factory image that can be flashed to recover it based on what baseband you started with.
For example, this image for MJ7 (Android 4.3).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent! Thank you!
Developers edition bootlader
Want to apologize up front if this is too off topic but it's kind of related to rooting. I have the Verizon Dev Ed and it arrived two weeks ago w MJ7 installed. within an hour of turing it on the phone starts OTA update to MK2. (yeah, i know. say it ain't so)
Now, both versions are BL locked on the NON-DE devices, but how does that work for DE? MY boot screen has a symbol of and "unlocked" padlock. I assume this indicates BL unlocked. My question/comment is this: If the BLis in fact, unlocked, then why can I not flash recovery? after scouring the websites I tried ADB. i figured this would be worth a shot as it does't use apps to "function". Reading here says Goo manager and other programs are a no go. THe only thing I have used any program w is Rom manager and that was to chose and install the recovery. Did not work. Tried flashing in odin- no dice.I have come across a DL copy of MK2 and that is flash-able and then root-able with safe root, but wth is up w the BL? Why can't I install and boot into recovery? Both CWM and TWRP recognize the device and install recoveries but they can't succeed getting into their respective recovery.
Can anyone shed some light on this or point me in the right direction? IF anyone want to know anything else about the Dev Ed I ll be happy to share whatever I can. Also, Anyone need a guinea pig try some of their stuff out (in exchange for helping educate me in the ways of the rom, of course). (I NEVER had this much trouble with DE Motorola devices)
kerryh420 said:
Want to apologize up front if this is too off topic but it's kind of related to rooting. I have the Verizon Dev Ed and it arrived two weeks ago w MJ7 installed. within an hour of turing it on the phone starts OTA update to MK2. (yeah, i know. say it ain't so)
Now, both versions are BL locked on the NON-DE devices, but how does that work for DE? MY boot screen has a symbol of and "unlocked" padlock. I assume this indicates BL unlocked. My question/comment is this: If the BLis in fact, unlocked, then why can I not flash recovery? after scouring the websites I tried ADB. i figured this would be worth a shot as it does't use apps to "function". Reading here says Goo manager and other programs are a no go. THe only thing I have used any program w is Rom manager and that was to chose and install the recovery. Did not work. Tried flashing in odin- no dice.I have come across a DL copy of MK2 and that is flash-able and then root-able with safe root, but wth is up w the BL? Why can't I install and boot into recovery? Both CWM and TWRP recognize the device and install recoveries but they can't succeed getting into their respective recovery.
Can anyone shed some light on this or point me in the right direction? IF anyone want to know anything else about the Dev Ed I ll be happy to share whatever I can. Also, Anyone need a guinea pig try some of their stuff out (in exchange for helping educate me in the ways of the rom, of course). (I NEVER had this much trouble with DE Motorola devices)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm pretty sure you'll need to root first. Also I'm not sure standard twrp is what you need for the Dev edition. They are lokied and I don't believe you have a need for that. That being sailing not exactly sure what your process for rooting will be or which recovery you need.
Maybe this thread will give you some insight.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2339849
Then research about flashing roms on the Dev. Edition. It will be different for you.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Disclaimer: You own the responsibility for choosing to take this route versus the Factory OTA. If it breaks, you own both pieces.
This process uses an unsupported Safestrap. Issues with that program should NOT be reported to Hashcode.
If something goes wrong, you need to be sure that you have a way to recover. Back up first.
The SCH-I545L is a variant of the Verizon Galaxy S4 that's used for several carriers - for example, Bluegrass Cellular, Cellcom, Appalachian Wireless, and others. The "L" variant isn't compatible with kernels and bootloaders designed for the stock SCH-I545 so it needs different treatment.
This method allows you to upgrade from MK4 to the official NC5 root and retain root in the process. It's exactly the same process as the one introduced by @muniz_ri for the I545, found here.
Without his work, this would not have been possible.
Thanks also to @evilryry for his help with pulling the files together and with testing this upgrade.
This is a copy of the MK4-to-NC5 OTA hammered into shape to not flash the NC5 bootloader, and install SuperSU. When you're done, it's a stock, rooted NC5.
This will not upgrade the bootloader to NC5, which means that if anything goes wrong you can flash back to stock MK4 to recover.
However, back up your phone in Safestrap before you begin so you have something to revert to.
Steps to do this:
You must first ensure that your MK4 system is in factory stock condition, with no files modified, no Xposed framework, etc. You must have SuperSU and Safestrap 3.72 installed before starting. See post #2 in this thread for a script that you can run on your phone to ensure that it's pristine.
If your phone is not clean, flashing a no-wipe MK4 ROM image will repair it. Just make sure that you flash Safestrap 3.72 as well. ( Safestrap-JFLTE-3.72-kk-B01.apk)
Download Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip from here,
MD5: c2e6673da0b235d9a3258c0ab46c8a65
Download I545L_Stock_Kernel_and_Modem.tar.md5 from here,
MD5: 693274326ad9d9209be0f0680bcb125e
Put the "Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip" file onto the root of your external SDcard.
Reboot and open Recovery from the Safestrap screen. Do not wipe anything!
Flash the "Upgrade_I545L_MK4toNC5.zip" file into the stock slot.
When the flash is complete, Press "Home" and reboot into Downloader mode.
Using ODIN, flash " I545L_Stock_Kernel_and_Modem.tar.md5" by putting it into the PDA or AP slot.
The first boot will take a long time as the phone optimizes apps. Be patient.
Before trying this, there's a way to verify that your phone is "stock enough" for the flash to work.
Download the attached script file and push it to the root of your SDcard.
Then, open terminal emulator and type at the prompt:
su -c /storage/extSdCard/mk4-verify.sh
or
su
sh /storage/extSdCard/mk4-verify.sh
You MUST have busybox installed for this to work; otherwise, you'll get a bunch of "/system/bin/sh: cut: not found" errors.
If everything is right, you'll get no output. Otherwise, any tampered files will be listed.
If you choose to install a non-stock ROM image after your NC5 upgrade, you'll need a set of kernel modules to flash. @evilryry has built a ZIP containing those, available from here.
You flash these in recovery after flashing the ROM but before rebooting.
Also note that you should flash SuperSU at the same time
Reserved #3.
Rock on. Thanks k1mu. Hell of a help. I'll be happy to help if anyone has any issues, as I have the phone and have gone through your upgrade process.
Fellow 545L'ers, Just a note to addon if you choose to install a custom rom, on 3.72 safestrap, backup your stock slot, and install over stock slot. remember, flash rom, then flash modules, and very important flash supersu zip. or else you wont have root/safestrap on custom rom and you will have to odin back to 4.3 and start the upgrade process all over again!
@k1mu Nice job!
And please let me know if you have better luck than I have had trying to resolve the safestrap apk force close issue after the upgrade.
If we already have NC5 without root, is there a downgrade option so I can use this method? Sorry, I'm new....
Ampz55 said:
If we already have NC5 without root, is there a downgrade option so I can use this method? Sorry, I'm new....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Several threads discuss it...
sent by bajarom v2.2 kitkat
I've found threads on downgrading, including Surge's here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2726868
but I figured downgrading using this method for the regular I545 would not work correctly.
Well first of all I'm not a developer but I consider myself decently knowledgeable. So, Not 100% sure but I believe that was to downgrade kitkat to jb with the jb bootloader intact in case you don't like kitkat or need to restart the whole process. I don't think you can get back to the jb bootloader once you upgrade it to kitkat. The way this process works is by updating the system and stuff but not the bootloader, leaving it at mk2 or mk4 in the 545L. So you can go back to the 4.3 and start again if you mess up. But the bootloader no, I think it's the same principle as not being able to Odin back to mdk because the bootloader updates. You can't downgrade it.
Have a screenshot showing my bootloader version (4.3) with kitkat baseband running hyperdrive 16.1
So forgive me if I'm wrong, but I believe if you take the ota or whatever to kitkat you're SOL for this posts process for root atm.
Edit, as with other phones, if anyone with this has upgraded via ota to kitkat you should be able to use @geohot "towelroot" method. Be sure to thank him too!
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Free mobile app
Where can one find a No Wipe MK4 ROM?
Rom? No. Odin flash yes. It's a few pages back in the other 545L thread, also on sammobile site. You'll see me linking it to someone else and the other guy who caught the download. You download it and extract the file, put in odin ap slot and flash. You are better off though if you backup and factory reset beforehand. Also, you could just use kies 3 to update with then use towelroot then install supersu from play store.
Remember at some point on stock rom backup your apn using apn backup and restore.
If custom rom is desired: From then if you choose to use safestrap download "selinux mode changer" app in play store change to permissive. Then download the 3.72 safestrap linked in op, and flash supersu *zip* and then desired rom. Also you will find somewhere in other thread our modules I Dropboxed but if you can't find it (will be 2 or 3 pgs back) I will link again. Feel free to post here or pm if you need any help. FYI, 4.3 mk4 flash we have and kies are no wipe.
Sent from my SCH-I545 using XDA Free mobile app
---------- Post added at 03:11 AM ---------- Previous post was at 03:04 AM ----------
kmg90 said:
Where can one find a No Wipe MK4 ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
https://mega.co.nz/#!HYBVHRQY!AigKnk8oNokcStYZ6GR6l13t1oAa9bQsOHxjEMj1A2U +extract = 4.3 MK4 Odin flash. if you want root, easier option is to just use kies imo. or use this and do an ota. then use towelroot+supersu. you basically follow this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2784138 steps 5-7 use ss method heading.
Hello I was wondering do you know what the mms settings are ? I'm trying to use evolve app. And it won't automatically find the mms settings.
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
blackbeard10 said:
Hello I was wondering do you know what the mms settings are ? I'm trying to use evolve app. And it won't automatically find the mms settings.
Sent from my SCH-I545L using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try harvesting from this or the info Dallas posted in other 545L thread.
Sent from my SM-G900V using XDA Free mobile app
When I try to flash this update with Safestrap 3.72 I get an error. I've checked MD5 it's good, I can't flash the original upgrade either. Is there a permission's set wrong somewhere?
XRSTOY1 said:
When I try to flash this update with Safestrap 3.72 I get an error. I've checked MD5 it's good, I can't flash the original upgrade either. Is there a permission's set wrong somewhere?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you on 4.3? You probably have modified system files or something. For this to work you need stock minus supersu and safestrap. Though the easy way to do this now is just to upgrade with kies and use towelroot. Just plug phone up and use kies. or if you must do it the harder way..
download https://mega.co.nz/#!HYBVHRQY!AigKnk...bQsOHxjEMj1A2U Should be a zip so extract and flash(4.3 is only flash i know is publicly available, 4.4.2 nc5 might be too tho) then with odin and upgrade with ota or try this process again.
Sent from my Supercharged KT Powered S5
worked for me
decaturbob said:
Several threads discuss it...
sent by bajarom v2.2 kitkat
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had good luck with this one.
GSM/CDMA Unlock for SCH-I545L
Hi,
I just bought a SCH-I545L over ebay and the seller said its Verizon but it turned out to be Other local carrier phone probably Cell Com. Verizon Phones are GSM Factory unlocked and hence I wanted to buy the same but this is not working with International GSM Service providers.
I basically want to use the phone outside of the USA on GSM and CDMA network.
I would like to know anyone here can guide me to a post or thread where there is a GSM/CDMA unlock available for SCH-I545L.
The other problem which I am facing is that I am not able to enable hidden menu. Dont know how to enable the hidden menu. Have already checked out various posts saying to take a backup followed by changing /efs/carrier/HiddenMenu. Change OFF to ON. Did the same but thats not working for me. *#06# doesn't work.
I was however able to root the phone through Towelroot. I am currently on 4.4.2 NC5.
Any guidance in the matter would be highly appreciated.
Thanks
I've never had any issues flashing ROMs until I tried flashing one of the beta builds of the 4.4.4 Google edition ROM. The creator of the ROM has been having issues with WiFi and data not locking correctly and released an APN zip to possibly resolve the issue. Flashing that zip though, which I'm pretty sure changed the radio, resulted in the phone having connection issues on any ROM. I also noticed that the baseband version was changed from MDK to NC5, so long story short, I used ODIN to revert back to MDK bone stock, reverted back to to MD2 (I believe) to root, then back to MDK.
Here's where I'm a little stumped. I tried to use the ROM manager app to install CWM touch recovery and every time it would say it's successful, but booting into recovery would give me the stock android version, which we all know is pretty useless other than for stock updates and erasing data/cache. So the only way to get CWM recovery installed was to use terminal on the phone to do the Loki flash method. I'm a little out of touch, so can someone explain to me what exactly Loki is other than a "workaround" for the bootloader, how it applies to MDK for running AOSP ROMs without the "unauthorized software" message, and what, if any was the unlocking method for the MDK bootloader? It's been so long that I can't remember how I set everything up initially, and doing a search didn't yield any kind of guide for newbies or those out of touch like myself.
Thanks for taking the time to read and help!
Saint Isaiah said:
I've never had any issues flashing ROMs until I tried flashing one of the beta builds of the 4.4.4 Google edition ROM. The creator of the ROM has been having issues with WiFi and data not locking correctly and released an APN zip to possibly resolve the issue. Flashing that zip though, which I'm pretty sure changed the radio, resulted in the phone having connection issues on any ROM. I also noticed that the baseband version was changed from MDK to NC5, so long story short, I used ODIN to revert back to MDK bone stock, reverted back to to MD2 (I believe) to root, then back to MDK.
Here's where I'm a little stumped. I tried to use the ROM manager app to install CWM touch recovery and every time it would say it's successful, but booting into recovery would give me the stock android version, which we all know is pretty useless other than for stock updates and erasing data/cache. So the only way to get CWM recovery installed was to use terminal on the phone to do the Loki flash method. I'm a little out of touch, so can someone explain to me what exactly Loki is other than a "workaround" for the bootloader, how it applies to MDK for running AOSP ROMs without the "unauthorized software" message, and what, if any was the unlocking method for the MDK bootloader? It's been so long that I can't remember how I set everything up initially, and doing a search didn't yield any kind of guide for newbies or those out of touch like myself.
Thanks for taking the time to read and help!
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Click to collapse
Loki is an exploit that allows the system to bypass bootloader checks and load custom software. If this happens again, restoring an EFS backup should fix your issue.
If you ever need to go back to stock MDK, you no longer need to do the downgrade to the prerelease MDL kernel. Just go to towelroot.com, install the towelroot apk, then hit the make it ra1n button. It's a new root method that came out a few months ago and works for a ton of devices. The easiest way to flash a compatible custom recovery for our device is to download Flashify from the play store and from there you can get the latest TWRP.
joshm.1219 said:
Loki is an exploit that allows the system to bypass bootloader checks and load custom software. If this happens again, restoring an EFS backup should fix your issue.
If you ever need to go back to stock MDK, you no longer need to do the downgrade to the prerelease MDL kernel. Just go to towelroot.com, install the towelroot apk, then hit the make it ra1n button. It's a new root method that came out a few months ago and works for a ton of devices. The easiest way to flash a compatible custom recovery for our device is to download Flashify from the play store and from there you can get the latest TWRP.
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Click to collapse
Gotcha, seems pretty straightforward. Wasn't there an actual unlock method for the bootloader though? I remember getting my download mode to read as custom as well as the boot logo, I just can't remember how and it seems like all traces of how to do it vanished.
Thanks for the help!
Also, what in the world does it mean to "Loki" a ROM after installing it? Kinda confused there
Saint Isaiah said:
Gotcha, seems pretty straightforward. Wasn't there an actual unlock method for the bootloader though? I remember getting my download mode to read as custom as well as the boot logo, I just can't remember how and it seems like all traces of how to do it vanished.
Thanks for the help!
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Click to collapse
No, never an actual bootloader unlock, besides Dev editions that came unlocked. My download mode still says "install custom ROM" or whatever. There's no discernable difference to the end user between an unlocked bootloader and an exploit like the Loki bypass.
joshm.1219 said:
No, never an actual bootloader unlock, besides Dev editions that came unlocked. My download mode still says "install custom ROM" or whatever. There's no discernable difference to the end user between an unlocked bootloader and an exploit like the Loki bypass.
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Click to collapse
OK, and I'm assuming the reason why being on MDK is so important is because upgrading to ME7 patches the vulnerability that can allow the boot loader to be bypassed, forcing you to use safestrap, which results in no custom kernal being able to be used?
And my question above: what does it mean to install, then "Loki" a ROM in the install steps?
Thanks again, you're awesome!
Saint Isaiah said:
OK, and I'm assuming the reason why being on MDK is so important is because upgrading to ME7 patches the vulnerability that can allow the boot loader to be bypassed, forcing you to use safestrap, which results in no custom kernal being able to be used?
And my question above: what does it mean to install, then "Loki" a ROM in the install steps?
Thanks again, you're awesome!
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Click to collapse
Yes exactly, ME7 patched it.
If you flash a TW ROM not built specifically for our device, The ROM (depending on kernel you flashed or if the ROM includes a kernel) may not have the files included to boot on a device with the Loki specific bypass. So you need to flash the " Loki doki zip " after the ROM and before initial boot. You can find the file on Google.
joshm.1219 said:
Yes exactly, ME7 patched it.
If you flash a TW ROM not built specifically for our device, The ROM (depending on kernel you flashed or if the ROM includes a kernel) may not have the files included to boot on a device with the Loki specific bypass. So you need to flash the " Loki doki zip " after the ROM and before initial boot. You can find the file on Google.
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Click to collapse
Awesome, thanks Josh! This might make a great sticky for the "what is Loki?" newvies and explaining the importance of MDK for those still on it and not sure why.
Warning: VRUGOC1 is impervious to previous bootloader bypass methods, and cannot be downgraded. Proceed with caution.
I managed to hose my phone while rooting it somehow, so I had to track down the factory image for I545VRUGOC1 / I545VZWGOC1. To actually flash it, I had to use Odin 3.10.6 rather than 3.09 for some reason, which is available in the links below. I also replaced Odin's SS_DL.dll with the one from the zip that contains the tar file, but I'm not sure if that was necessary.
Hope this helps anyone else from who's stuck
TAR
https://mega.nz/#!T0tTDZKA!tIw4ebWEWhsTJWTbyWVx9e07aSBSc_1_Xm2mWWkdu8I
Mirror: http://upple.it/4b1331ec4f4dd04e/VZW-I545VRUGOC1-20150502144520.zip
Slower / crappier mirrors I found in case the above doesn't work:
http://rapidgator.net/file/6f4fd8106796c1bba92dd20a7b5a5c51
http://uploaded.net/file/zcbqwyz5
Odin
http://odindownload.com/download/Odin3_v3.10.6.zip
Mirror: https://mega.nz/#!qh9UTJ6Q!gLDkj2xwXRb8Wa2YTbPODpdrhqowK-s6eZjXI_bTrhQ
kd- said:
Warning: VRUGOC1 is impervious to previous bootloader bypass methods. Proceed with caution.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! I found the file here too:
http://d-h.st/LNQV
My question is, I have a Kitkat Verizon phone here, I assume upgrading it restricts custom ROMs that can be loaded to it?
Thanks for another mirror - the more the better
Yes, I don't think any current custom ROMs work with the VRUGOC1 bootloader, etc. FlashFire has worked for a couple experiments I've run (flashing wireless hotspot fix, for example), but I'm hesitant to flash anything more substantial. I have not tried SafeStrap but I have not seen anything about it working yet.
kd- said:
Thanks for another mirror - the more the better
Yes, I don't think any current custom ROMs work with the VRUGOC1 bootloader, etc. FlashFire has worked for a couple experiments I've run (flashing wireless hotspot fix, for example), but I'm hesitant to flash anything more substantial. I have not tried SafeStrap but I have not seen anything about it working yet.
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Click to collapse
muniz_ri has posted a stock, de-odexed (and odexed, too of course) that should work with OC1 bootloader (it doesn't have a bootloader in it, so the current bootloader should stay)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/gal...ment/rom-i545oc1-5-0-1-100-stock-mdk-t3097902
I haven't installed flashfire yet, but i am on OC1 and already went through the rooting process.
Does this boot if I flash it and the NK4 bootloader?
Oishikatta said:
Does this boot if I flash it and the NK4 bootloader?
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Click to collapse
muniz_ri has a tar with the oc1 build and the nk4 bootloader, look in either general or Android development
^^
It's in android development. Only two or three ROMs work on OC1(at most). I only know of one confirmed.
XxD34THxX said:
^^
It's in android development. Only two or three ROMs work on OC1(at most). I only know of one confirmed.
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Click to collapse
muniz has a stock rooted ROM for the oc1 people, which makes sense if you're going from stock. you can flash deodexed ROM and be able to use xposed framework
skepticmisfit said:
muniz has a stock rooted ROM for the oc1 people, which makes sense if you're going from stock. you can flash deodexed ROM and be able to use xposed framework
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Click to collapse
Yep, it works just fine, flashed with FlashFire.
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B4RU_ZH5QUASaU9LcDJ3WWZfdXM/edit?usp=docslist_api&pli=1 I found it here two
Can somebody please help me? First, my phone is locked and I was in NK1, so I decided to flash OC1 by the flashfire method (I don't remember who's the author of the topic), everything went fine and I started to use lollipop, but then I was about to sell my phone and I went to settings, then factory reset and the phone restarted, wiped data and cache by itself and then turned on, I thought everything was ok, but then it just stayed in the samsung's wizard screen, it never passed from that screen. So, I decided to manually enter recovery and do a factory reset again, but the result was the same. In order to unbrick the phone I had to use odin and install the NC5 original firmware .
So, my question is, If I want to install lollipop and I don't care to stay with an unlockable bootloader I justt need to use this Firmware and install it through odin? Or do I need to have an specific firmware (e.g nc5, nk1) and unlocked bootloader?
bayron_olaff said:
Can somebody please help me? First, my phone is locked and I was in NK1, so I decided to flash OC1 by the flashfire method (I don't remember who's the author of the topic), everything went fine and I started to use lollipop, but then I was about to sell my phone and I went to settings, then factory reset and the phone restarted, wiped data and cache by itself and then turned on, I thought everything was ok, but then it just stayed in the samsung's wizard screen, it never passed from that screen. So, I decided to manually enter recovery and do a factory reset again, but the result was the same. In order to unbrick the phone I had to use odin and install the NC5 original firmware .
So, my question is, If I want to install lollipop and I don't care to stay with an unlockable bootloader I justt need to use this Firmware and install it through odin? Or do I need to have an specific firmware (e.g nc5, nk1) and unlocked bootloader?
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Click to collapse
Yes, that sounds correct. Personally, I wouldn't flash the OC1 factory image unless you have to - I'd flash the NK1 image, which should reset everything, then upgrade to Lollipop using a method that doesn't upgrade the bootloader so whoever gets the phone next can downgrade if they want to.
Can anyone confirm the mega link is a no-wipe oc1 package?
persdata.img doesnt appear in it just making sure.
Edit : been tested it appears to be a no wipe Odin package
Hello Everyone,
I'm a first time poster but have been reading this site for weeks trying to find the answer to my questions. I've acquired a good bit of info but still wanted to clarify some things before I take the plunge.
I'm currently using a Verizon GS4 (I-545) running rooted stock MK2 jellybean. I rooted ~2 years ago to get rid of the bloatware and just never bothered upgrading/keeping up with the firmware updates. There are some new apps that won't work on my phone, but are working on my wife's stock GS4 on OF1. I'd like to upgrade my firmware (and keep root) so that I don't have to keep stealing her phone.
I've come across several threads discussing upgrading from one baseband to the next - none quite match my scenario. Most threads talk about how to upgrade and keep root but now that I'm late to the party, it seems like root methods have been discovered for all stock firmware versions (even OF1 by flashing OC1 kernel, rooting, and flashing back to OF1 kernel). So with this in mind, can I just skip all the complicated stuff and just use Odin to flash OF1 and then follow Edgardo_Uchicha's OF1 root method?
If I can use Odin to flash OF1, will the file I load in the "AP" slot also includes the proper modules, bootloaders, etc. to upgrade everything to OF1? Will it do a factory reset/wipe or will I keep all my data like an OTA? As for getting the Odin file, it looks like I should just use the Samsung site to get it directly?
If I can use the Odin method, are there any drawbacks? If I don't like lollipop I realize I'm stuck and can't go back, but is there anyway to upgrade and be able to go back (downgrade)?
Thanks again for your help!
Mike
Hello Mike,
You can flash OF1 and root via the method others and I posted, some people wrote that other rooting software/apps are starting to work on lollipop builds, I haven't tested yet(since my device have a custom rom and it's rooted) but soon I will and will update the thread. Btw, my suggestion to you is flashing this specific odin package:
[Odin][TAR] I545VRUGOF1 neutered (No BL)
I was on kitkat bootloader, flashed this OF1 build and went back to kitkat without problems
Good luck!
Edgardo_Uchiha said:
Hello Mike,
You can flash OF1 and root via the method others and I posted, some people wrote that other rooting software/apps are starting to work on lollipop builds, I haven't tested yet(since my device have a custom rom and it's rooted) but soon I will and will update the thread. Btw, my suggestion to you is flashing this specific odin package:
[Odin][TAR] I545VRUGOF1 neutered (No BL)
I was on kitkat bootloader, flashed this OF1 build and went back to kitkat without problems
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I followed the thread you linked and it looked like my phone upgraded OK. However, even at lock screen I get the message "Unfortunately, the process com.android.phone has stopped". It reappears as soon as I dismiss it...basically making my phone useless. I was able to navigate to the Settings page though and it says I'm on 5.0.1 but under baseband it says "Unknown" rather than OF1. It does show OF1 under the build number though. I'm guessing it didn't like the MK2 bootloader?
Any ideas how to fix? Help!!
mike2914 said:
So I followed the thread you linked and it looked like my phone upgraded OK. However, even at lock screen I get the message "Unfortunately, the process com.android.phone has stopped". It reappears as soon as I dismiss it...basically making my phone useless. I was able to navigate to the Settings page though and it says I'm on 5.0.1 but under baseband it says "Unknown" rather than OF1. It does show OF1 under the build number though. I'm guessing it didn't like the MK2 bootloader?
Any ideas how to fix? Help!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try wiping via recovery, if I'm not wrong this package does not wipe your phone so maybe there are some leftovers that are messing up the new system
You are correct, the OF1 Odin file you recommended did not wipe my data/apps. You were also correct in that doing a factory reset/wipe fixed the issue. I had some apps that were previously "frozen/disabled" while I had root so I have a feeling that didn't help things when it got updated.
Is there any way to confirm that I still have the MK2 bootloader?
mike2914 said:
You are correct, the OF1 Odin file you recommended did not wipe my data/apps. You were also correct in that doing a factory reset/wipe fixed the issue. I had some apps that were previously "frozen/disabled" while I had root so I have a feeling that didn't help things when it got updated.
Is there any way to confirm that I still have the MK2 bootloader?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Download and install terminal emulator, the run these commands:
1. su
2. getprop ro.bootloader
Awesome! I was able to confirm I'm still using the MK2 bootloader. Thanks for all your help!