Hi guys, I am having an issue i cant seem to resolve on my razr i. apologies if this has already been covered in another thread (or 10, which is usually the way with these things because nobody reads the other threads) I have been through a load of other threads but cannot seem to resolve my issue so i started my own.
Right, I have switched from iphone to razr and am not stupid when it comes to jailbreaking etc so thought rooting the razr wouldnt be a problem. when trying to root it it failed and i am stuck at the fastboot menu, however, everything on the menu is disabled so i cant use it. i get the usual message:
fastboot reason: flash failure
fastboot max download size: 100mb
usb connected
if i try to use anything on the menu i get the following message:
fastboot menu disabled.
my phone is not unlocked and not rooted. i have barely done anything to it other than install a couple of free apps. i am unable to progress past this screen. the phone is GB and is on 4.0.4
any help you guys can give would be greatly appreciated. again, apologies if this has already been covered, none of the solutions i found were able to resolve my issue. as i said, i had no problems jailbreaking my old iphone, i am a bit of a n00b when it comes to droids...
AW: [Q] razr i problems - fastboot menu
Are you able to run fastboot commands ? Cause in that case you might be able To unlock bootloader and reflash the software .
Sent from my XT890 using xda premium
xX_Alex_Xx said:
Are you able to run fastboot commands ? Cause in that case you might be able To unlock bootloader and reflash the software .
Sent from my XT890 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not able to do anything. if i scroll to any of the options on the menu as soon as i hit the volume up key it just returns a message advising the fastboot menu is disabled.
**edit
ah commands not menu options. not sure how i go about doing that. i am 100% new to droid...
ged flanders said:
Hi guys, I am having an issue i cant seem to resolve on my razr i. apologies if this has already been covered in another thread (or 10, which is usually the way with these things because nobody reads the other threads) I have been through a load of other threads but cannot seem to resolve my issue so i started my own.
Right, I have switched from iphone to razr and am not stupid when it comes to jailbreaking etc so thought rooting the razr wouldnt be a problem. when trying to root it it failed and i am stuck at the fastboot menu, however, everything on the menu is disabled so i cant use it. i get the usual message:
fastboot reason: flash failure
fastboot max download size: 100mb
usb connected
if i try to use anything on the menu i get the following message:
fastboot menu disabled.
my phone is not unlocked and not rooted. i have barely done anything to it other than install a couple of free apps. i am unable to progress past this screen. the phone is GB and is on 4.0.4
any help you guys can give would be greatly appreciated. again, apologies if this has already been covered, none of the solutions i found were able to resolve my issue. as i said, i had no problems jailbreaking my old iphone, i am a bit of a n00b when it comes to droids...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had the same problem, I used the recommendation in this thread, 5th post and it worked, but afterwards need to re-download apps from PlayStore:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=36612151
Follow the instructions exactly - you need the drivers and RSD lite on Windows PC, then connect the phone via usb cable that came with it; and you'll need a full unzip program (cost) so you can move the unzipped files into RSD lite. Get the right flash file though - there's a list in the linked post if you don't want GB retail which I used. Important: this only works for ICS 4.0.4 and don't try to downgrade to an earlier version than what's currently on your phone e.g. v.39 to v.31, for example.
Good luck.
AW: [Q] razr i problems - fastboot menu
If the solution from mervluk does not work (It didn't work for me either) , you should try if you are able to use the fast boot commands .
To do that simply connect your phone to the PC. Then download fast boot , if you do not already have that. It is in the .zip from the RAZR I root thread.
The go to the downloaded folder. There hold shift and perform a right mouse click. Then choose" start a command prompt here "or something similar (don't know how the option is called in English).
Then type in
fastboot reboot
When the phone reboots you might be able to unlock your phone and flash the software.
BUT BE AWARE! YOU WILL LOSE YOUR WARRANTY!!
So you better try the other solution first. This should be your last option.
If you don't know how to unlock the bootloader look in the RAZR I forum or pn me .
Alex
Sent from my XT890 using xda premium
mervluk said:
Had the same problem, I used the recommendation in this thread, 5th post and it worked, but afterwards need to re-download apps from PlayStore:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=36612151
Follow the instructions exactly - you need the drivers and RSD lite on Windows PC, then connect the phone via usb cable that came with it; and you'll need a full unzip program (cost) so you can move the unzipped files into RSD lite. Get the right flash file though - there's a list in the linked post if you don't want GB retail which I used. Important: this only works for ICS 4.0.4 and don't try to downgrade to an earlier version than what's currently on your phone e.g. v.39 to v.31, for example.
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks buddy. i will give this a whirl and let you know how i get on. fingers crossed!
mervluk - your advice worked a treat. i got it working again. thanks !
now i am working again, what cool tricks do people advise. is it worth rooting it ? what can i do once it is rooted? am i able to network unlock it myself ?
ged flanders said:
mervluk - your advice worked a treat. i got it working again. thanks !
now i am working again, what cool tricks do people advise. is it worth rooting it ? what can i do once it is rooted? am i able to network unlock it myself ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad about that. This phone can be a bit of a so-and-so. ics is being updated ota to Jelly Bean 4.1.2, which I've avoided so far to keep fm (although not activated on the supplied software). I did succeed with unlocking the bootloader (loose warranty - important) following the whole complicated procedure on Moto's website - but couldn't myself use the shortcuts on here. (Then had to set up again and re-download everything from the PlayStore). It required the Moto-supplied key. I then rooted, though I think the JB ota download unroots again? You can't use RSD lite with JB.
With JB the procedures are different, and a modified JB European (not for use with GB) firmware is now available on another thread which is impressing some posters. But I think just be a bit cautious as there does not appear to be any fix for the "service code corrupt" bootloader error yet. Looks like the options are very restricted whilst no-one understand the interaction between Google Android and the intel atom chipset.
I have a network unlock key from one of the commercial suppliers (cellunlocker.net), but haven't needed to try and use it yet!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=40782218
In the above thread, does this method work with the stock sony Xperia T firmwares
please can you post your firmware version (stock only, no cm, no aokp or custom roms) and let me know
if it worked.
Basically I want to access my wifes phone and check her messages as she has been acting weird
I tried the service menu trick on her phone but it didn't work which means her phone has more up to date firmware i believe
EDIT found this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2244741
Can someone confirm it works on xperia T?
owen1978 said:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=40782218
In the above thread, does this method work with the stock sony Xperia T firmwares
please can you post your firmware version (stock only, no cm, no aokp or custom roms) and let me know
if it worked.
Basically I want to access my wifes phone and check her messages as she has been acting weird
I tried the service menu trick on her phone but it didn't work which means her phone has more up to date firmware i believe
Can someone confirm it works on xperia T?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just tried that for you, it didn't work; the Emergency dial screen wouldn't accept the *#*#73556673#*#* code.
The lock screen WAS disabled whilst the Demo was active but as pressing the power button to wake the screen was immediately rerunning the Demo I'm sure that would get noticed. (Xperia T firmware 9.1.A.1.141).
Might have time to test out the 2nd link you posted later.
BarneyJ said:
Just tried that for you, it didn't work; the Emergency dial screen wouldn't accept the *#*#73556673#*#* code.
The lock screen WAS disabled whilst the Demo was active but as pressing the power button to wake the screen was immediately rerunning the Demo I'm sure that would get noticed. (Xperia T firmware 9.1.A.1.141).
Might have time to test out the 2nd link you posted later.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Did the demo run?
2) Did you then press home button to go to the home screen?
3) Did you then bring up dialer and type in the demo code again to disable the demo?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRelLSb0vgw&feature=youtu.be
In the video when the demo is running he taps it to bring up the home button, did this work on yours?
Thanks v much
owen1978 said:
1) Did the demo run?
2) Did you then press home button to go to the home screen?
3) Did you then bring up dialer and type in the demo code again to disable the demo?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRelLSb0vgw&feature=youtu.be
In the video when the demo is running he taps it to bring up the home button, did this work on yours?
Thanks v much
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) The Demo ran when the phone was already unlocked and I typed in the code from the dialer - on first run it even prompts you that it will change the screen unlock password.
2) Yes pressing the home button went to the Home screen (at this point if you switch the screen off then back on the Demo reruns).
3) Yes I did.
The code doesn't seem to work at the Emergency Call screen on my Xperia T, or perhaps the phone he's using in the Video doesn't have the most current firmware.
BarneyJ said:
1) The Demo ran when the phone was already unlocked and I typed in the code from the dialer - on first run it even prompts you that it will change the screen unlock password.
2) Yes pressing the home button went to the Home screen (at this point if you switch the screen off then back on the Demo reruns).
3) Yes I did.
The code doesn't seem to work at the Emergency Call screen on my Xperia T, or perhaps the phone he's using in the Video doesn't have the most current firmware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is possible you can test the zip file method?
I'm on my way to work now, I'll try the 2nd thread a little later. I'll have to try Method B in that thread because I don't currenty have CWM recovery on my phone which is required for Method A using the Zip file.
BarneyJ said:
I'm on my way to work now, I'll try the 2nd thread a little later. I'll have to try Method B in that thread because I don't currenty have CWM recovery on my phone which is required for Method A using the Zip file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ahh ok, neither does her phone so that wont work.... never mind thanks for your help
Had a thought what if I flash an older version of firmware which has the service menu security hole?
Would just have simply plug her phone in, flash it, and then let it restart (wiping only cache and dalvik, if they are available in stock recovery)
So she won't lose any of her data and won't be any wiser?
hmmm....
BarneyJ said:
I'm on my way to work now, I'll try the 2nd thread a little later. I'll have to try Method B in that thread because I don't currenty have CWM recovery on my phone which is required for Method A using the Zip file.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh was reading too quickly method b doesnt require CWM... ok, if you can give this a try and get back to me it would be much appreciated
owen1978 said:
EDIT found this
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2244741
Can someone confirm it works on xperia T?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tested a similar method on windows that worked on my T on JB.
all it needed was a
adb shell
su
rm /data/system/gesture.key
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This of course has limitations, the device needs to be rooted and usb debugging must be enabled
owen1978 said:
Ahh was reading too quickly method b doesnt require CWM... ok, if you can give this a try and get back to me it would be much appreciated
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
matt4321 said:
I've tested a similar method on windows that worked on my T on JB.
all it needed was a
adb shell
su
rm /data/system/gesture.key
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This of course has limitations, the device needs to be rooted and usb debugging must be enabled
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I suspected that USB debugging would need to be enabled to use the B Method in that thread you linked and what Matt has said Tally's with this; I've now had time to try and can confirm this.
Matt's commands worked when I substituted 'password.key' instead of 'gesture.key' in the 3rd line (I had a PIN lock set) - 'gesture.key' seems to be for when a pattern lock is set, and 'password.key' for PIN lock.
Method B in that thread is missing the 'su' line that Matt has above, so failed with 'Permission Denied' when trying to delete the .key files - works once you add the su command.
Hi there
I am encountering an issue with my Sony Xperia T (FW: 9.1.A.1.141) which I am certain can be resolved with the correct tools and knowhow, but having spent the last week following what feels like every related link on the internet, I am no further forward - sleeping badly as a result - and very much in need of some help.
I'd prefer to avoid a torrent of potential fixes that I may already have tried at length so please forgive me if I go into too much detail. I just want to be very clear exactly where I am and what I have done so far to try and fix the issue. My PC is running Windows 7 64-bit (no issues).
This is my first proper smartphone so after a few months getting to grips with the underlying nature of the Android OS, I decided it was now time to root the phone and try out different ROMs etc. After reading what I could about the process, I finally used DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 (For Sony Xperia Devices) and was amazed by how easy it was to unroot my device. After installing Titanium Backup and fully backing up my files, I then installed ClockWorkMod Recovery 6.0.4.6 (For Sony Xperia Devices), and was able to boot into the recovery environment without issue (I also made an additional backup of the system at this point). So far, so good.
I then copied two ROMS to my SD card - Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) For Sony Xperia T (AOKP Build) & CyanogenMod 11.20140127 (Nightly) For Sony Xperia T - and tried to flash the CyanogenMod ROM from within the ClockWorkMod Recovery Environment, however I received a Status 7 Error, preventing me from flashing the ROM, then tried the same with Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) ROM, but again I received a Status 7 Error. As I attempted to leave the recovery environment to research the Status 7 Error, the program flashed a popup saying the phone was not rooted and would I like to root it. At this point, I assumed I had lost root as a result of the Status 7 Error, but didn't want to make any more changes, so chose no to the root option and restarted my Xperia T.
At this point the Sony logo went into a loop and despite restarting the phone using power and volume up many times, I was unable to boot back into the ClockWorkMod Recovery Environment nor connect the phone to my PC, although I could see the drivers appear for a few seconds in Windows before disappearing. It took me a good couple of days to realise that I had to fully charge my phone, so when I began the operation again with a fully charged phone I was able to update the driver in Device Manager from Sony Ericsson Seehcri Control Device (yellow exclamation mark) to Sony ADB Device (although the Sony Ericsson Seehcri Control Device with exclamation mark later returned so I am unable to assess how successful this actually was).
From here, I tried to update the phone using the already installed and up to date PC Companion, but the phone will not connect in flash mode, so it is not possible to connect the phone. I also tried the latest Sony Update Service (2.13.4.16), then Sony Emma Flash Tool (For Sony Xperia Devices), but none of these recognise the phone because I cannot get the phone into flash mode. Using the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 (For Sony Xperia Devices), I am able to connect to the phone in fastboot mode, but when I try to install a stock kernel or any other variant, the Flash Tool states that I can't make any changes because the phone is not rooted.
Thinking I could root my phone again with DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17, this time it no longer works, I assume because my phone cannot enter flash mode, even though it is recognised in Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 in fastboot mode (blue light).
Now, it is conceivable since my phone is no longer rooted that I may well be able to have my phone fixed under warranty and returned to me, however I would thereafter be scared to try and install a custom ROM, and would never really feel comfortable with the phone again, so I would much prefer to learn how to fix the problem myself. I am convinced the phone is salvageable because I have no issue recharging the phone, the screen is lighting up to display the Sony logo without issue and I am able to connect to my PC so that Sony ADB Device is recognised in Device Manager and via the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0, but can make no other changes.
My suspicion is that it has something to do with the ADB drivers, (which I linked to my Android Developer Tools Bundle 20131030 64-bit via the Windows Environment Variables), since no devices are recognised when I connect the phone and run the ADB Devices command in the Windows Command Prompt even when Windows is otherwise able to identify the device in Device Manager.
If anyone would be willing to talk me through this, I would be most grateful and would follow up all advice up so this information might be useful to others in the future as I can't see this being an isolated case. Likewise, if I am simply wasting my time and need to get the phone replaced or repaired, at least it would be good to know that I have exhausted all other options.
FYI Prior to the soft brick, I had USB debugging enabled and was in Mass Storage Mode (since this was more stable than Media Transfer Mode).
Hi. I don't see any mention of bootloader status. Did you go through the process of unlocking your bootloader? Or have you checked to see if your phone is "bootloader unlock allowed: yes"? The reason I ask is because the 2 roms you want to try seem to be AOSP-based / Cyanogen, which run on custom kernels. If your bootloader is locked, you are not allowed to flash custom kernels. That might explain the failure code you say in CWM - or it might not (since my bootloader cannot be unlocked, I don't have much experience with those kinds of ROMs).
Moving on to the recovery you flashed - Which recovery did you install? I have been reading that Clockworkmod recovery (v9) is quite buggy. You can get v8 in this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2609997
The peeps in this forum are pretty good problem solvers (and creators ;D) - we'll get you going again hopefully!
is your bootloader unlocked dude?i mean if you have a locked bootlader you are not supposed to install custom roms. and if your boot loader is unlocked sony update engine and pc companion wont solve the issue. you have to try with flashtool .firstly you gotta install the flashtool drivers fot xt .and then run flashtool x64. hold the vol down button and connect it using usb. i had this problem many times. and that above procedure may solve your issue
Hi there
First of all thank you so much for replying. These forums are quite daunting at times and it is good to know someone with some clout is listening. Apologies again for going into yet more detail, but it should help me reach a resolution sooner rather than later.
As re the bootloader, I was under the impression that DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 would root my stock Xperia T while leaving the bootloader untouched - that is to say locked (as far as I am aware) - should I wish to revert the rooting process at a later date. Now, I obviously lost root somewhere along the line, but has the bootloader also been changed to unlocked? I don't know, but I wouldn't imagine so, so I can only assume it is still locked.
I have recharged my phone ready to make some fresh attempts at this, but to confirm the current state of my Windows 7 connection, I can only connect to the PC in fastboot (with the blue light turned on after connecting to the machine while pressing volume down). There is definitely an issue with some aspect of the drivers since the Sony ADB Device is recognised as working in Device Manager as soon as I connect the phone, however the bothersome Sony Ericsson Seehcri Control Device is also present with a yellow exclamation mark indicating a problem.
Now, whether this is actually affecting my use of the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 and the other flash tools, I can't actually say. When I open the Android Flash Tool with the phone connected, the two options available to me are flashmode or fast boot mode. When I try to use the flashmode with the (as far as I am aware) Xperia T stock firmware LT30P_9.1.A.1.141_PL.ftf, I simply cannot connect in flashmode when prompted. I am asked to remove the phone then reattach it, but no green light ever shows indicating flashmode, only the blue light indicating fast boot mode. When I try to use fast boot mode on the other hand, firstly I am not sure which of the various methods to use - I have of course tried them all, and also I should say both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the Flash Tool - but when I do, I am always told that the device needs to be rooted first.
Now, this may have something to do with the kernels/firmware/ROMs that I am using (there's no question all the variations confuse me a little) as I assumed it simply wasn't possible to flash via fastboot yet further reading suggests that it should be possible to flash a stock kernel without root access. The kernels/firmware I have tried are: stock-7.0.A.3.223-twrp-2.3.3.0.elf; 15102012.img; Sony Xperia T Kernel (Stock) With CWM602; Sony Xperia T Kernel (Stock) With TWRP2500. So perhaps I am not using the correct firmware or kernel (I would like to try the LT30P_9.1.A.1.141_PL.ftf, but cannot see an option to do so via fast boot mode). If this is the case and I am able to identify the correct kernel, then perhaps this "device must be rooted first" notification would no longer happen and the state of the ADB drivers would be largely irrelevant.
On the other hand if the flash tool in fast boot mode is always going to ask me to root first, wouldn't it make more sense to focus my attention on being able to connect to DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 in order to root the device so I can then use the Flash Tool in fast boot mode without any further issues. But that being the case, perhaps I should focus on working out what is happening with the problem Sony Ericsson Seehcri Control Device in Device Manager. Perhaps when that is resolved I will be able to connect to any of the available flash tools.
As far as ROMs and Recovery Environments are concerned, I truly appreciate your advice - and believe me when I resolve this problem I will be sure to run through my rooting plans BEFORE executing them on these very forums - but for now I need to focus on flashing the phone back to stock or somehow connecting the phone to one of the Sony Flash Tools.
Thanks again for your patience and assistance so far and I look forward any more ideas now I have provided a bit more detail.
My sanity hangs in the balance!
BTW, I imagine you are both quite right about what went went wrong in the first instance - I did not appreciate you couldn't flash any ROM once the Xperia T had been rooted. Again, when I resolve this issue, I will describe my exact plans before proceeding. Thanks for clearing that up. I'm learning all the time.
pfhastie said:
BTW, I imagine you are both quite right about what went went wrong in the first instance - I did not appreciate you couldn't flash any ROM once the Xperia T had been rooted. Again, when I resolve this issue, I will describe my exact plans before proceeding. Thanks for clearing that up. I'm learning all the time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try unlocking bootloader, fastboot flashing boot.img of the rom you want. (before hand get the rom you want on sd or something) And then you should flash without error.
First of all thank you so much for replying. These forums are quite daunting at times and it is good to know someone with some clout is listening. Apologies again for going into yet more detail, but it should help me reach a resolution sooner rather than later.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Detail is always good - much better than a "i rooted my phone and now it doesn't work" post. I agree, information is in many different places - very easy for that to happen.
As re the bootloader, I was under the impression that DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 would root my stock Xperia T while leaving the bootloader untouched - that is to say locked (as far as I am aware)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes - that is, if your bootloader was Locked when you started this whole adventure.
Now, I obviously lost root somewhere along the line
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Maybe but maybe not!,
but has the bootloader also been changed to unlocked? I don't know, but I wouldn't imagine so, so I can only assume it is still locked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No - the bootloader unlock is a whole process in itself. DoomLord's (fantastic) root kit will root your phone - meaning, it will root your phone's current system, to allow read/write access to the system's files. When you unlock the bootloader, that allows you to write to partitions (kernel aka boot, radio/baseband? etc.)
I have recharged my phone ready to make some fresh attempts at this, but to confirm the current state of my Windows 7 connection, I can only connect to the PC in fastboot (with the blue light turned on after connecting to the machine while pressing volume down). There is definitely an issue with some aspect of the drivers since the Sony ADB Device is recognised as working in Device Manager as soon as I connect the phone, however the bothersome Sony Ericsson Seehcri Control Device is also present with a yellow exclamation mark indicating a problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since right now, what you need to be able to do is flash a stock FTF (to get your phone working again), make sure your phone is disconnected from the PC. Drivers --- all you should need is Sony PC Companion installed (which installs base drivers for the phone), and Flashtool (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1943886). After you install Flashtool, you will need to go into its folder - inside of there is a "drivers" folder. go in there and run the EXE. On the left side, make sure to click/check the driver for your phone (xperia T or TL or LT30p or whatever), plus the Fastboot driver, plus the Flashmode driver. Let it do the install. **NOTE** i dont know if Win7 has "driver signature enforcement" - if you notice the drivers are failing to install, that could be why. Look into how to temporarily disable driver signature enforcement and try these 3 drivers again. You will need them!!
Now, whether this is actually affecting my use of the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 and the other flash tools, I can't actually say. When I open the Android Flash Tool with the phone connected, the two options available to me are flashmode or fast boot mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stop here for a second - For the purpose of flashing an FTF (i.e. getting your phone back to working state), do not connect the phone yet.
When I try to use the flashmode with the (as far as I am aware) Xperia T stock firmware LT30P_9.1.A.1.141_PL.ftf, I simply cannot connect in flashmode when prompted. I am asked to remove the phone then reattach it, but no green light ever shows indicating flashmode, only the blue light indicating fast boot mode.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When using Flashmode, don't connect the phone at all - Choose flashmode, then choose the FTF, then wait for it to process the files, then it will pop up to tell you when to connect the phone. And this is very important - make sure the phone is fully OFF, then, hold the VOLDOWN button, then plug the usb cable in - when you see Flashmode start moving along, you can let go of the VOLDOWN button... and put the phone down gently .. you dont want to distrub this delicate process .
When I try to use fast boot mode on the other hand, firstly I am not sure which of the various methods to use - I have of course tried them all, and also I should say both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the Flash Tool - but when I do, I am always told that the device needs to be rooted first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This may all depend on your bootloader - if your bootloader is locked, you likely cannot get the phone into Fastboot mode.
Now, this may have something to do with the kernels/firmware/ROMs that I am using (there's no question all the variations confuse me a little) as I assumed it simply wasn't possible to flash via fastboot yet further reading suggests that it should be possible to flash a stock kernel without root access.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right - flashing via fastboot may not be possible right now if your bootloader is locked.
The kernels/firmware I have tried are: stock-7.0.A.3.223-twrp-2.3.3.0.elf; 15102012.img; Sony Xperia T Kernel (Stock) With CWM602; Sony Xperia T Kernel (Stock) With TWRP2500. So perhaps I am not using the correct firmware or kernel (I would like to try the LT30P_9.1.A.1.141_PL.ftf, but cannot see an option to do so via fast boot mode). If this is the case and I am able to identify the correct kernel, then perhaps this "device must be rooted first" notification would no longer happen and the state of the ADB drivers would be largely irrelevant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes - let's skip the kernels for now - and get you flashing a fresh FTF so you can start over. I suggest that once the FTF is flashed, and the phone can boot normally, you dial the Service Menu number and look to see if your phone has "Bootloader Unlock Allowed: Yes" or "Bootloader Unlock Allowed: No". -If it says NO, it means NO! There is currently (as of Feb3/2014) no way to get around this. This means your bootloader cannot be unlocked, which means no custom kernels, and no fastboot! Custom ROMS can still be flashed - just those that are Locked Bootloader-friendly (meaning, the custom rom operates just fine/is based on the Stock kernel - whatever version is preferred will be mentioned in the dev's first post of the thread). There are a few.. like XperimenT and T-Hybrid. I like those.
I'm going to be safe and assume yours says No (like mine, because everyone should suffer with me!! ) You can then ROOT the system like you did, then install CWM Recovery for locked bootloaders (v8!! dont use v9 for now), then you can flash a rom or do whatever. If the custom rom you're installing is based on a stock kernel whose version number is different from your phone's base, then you may be able to find kernel zips that are flashable via CWM - since they are stock kernels, the flash will be allowed because they are signed or whatever. Example: Since you're going for LT30p .141 FTF, you're on the 141 kernel. If the rom you're installing says it recommends the .145 kernel, find the LT30P .145 kernel zip. You can flash that right after flashing the ROM. I think that the 141/145 kernels are similar to each other so in this case, you may not even have to flash from 141 to 145. But you will - because you will become addicted to flashing like the rest of us and you will want to observe/compare how the ROM behaves on each.
On the other hand if the flash tool in fast boot mode is always going to ask me to root first, wouldn't it make more sense to focus my attention on being able to connect to DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 in order to root the device so I can then use the Flash Tool in fast boot mode without any further issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think what it's really asking you is to Unlock Your Bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader is kind of considered a global root (because it allows writing to any partition on the phone.
But that being the case, perhaps I should focus on working out what is happening with the problem Sony Ericsson Seehcri Control Device in Device Manager. Perhaps when that is resolved I will be able to connect to any of the available flash tools.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes - hopefully above we have tackled that.
As far as ROMs and Recovery Environments are concerned, I truly appreciate your advice - and believe me when I resolve this problem I will be sure to run through my rooting plans BEFORE executing them on these very forums - but for now I need to focus on flashing the phone back to stock or somehow connecting the phone to one of the Sony Flash Tools.
Thanks again for your patience and assistance so far and I look forward any more ideas now I have provided a bit more detail.
My sanity hangs in the balance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed!! Good luck!
Thanks for the considered responses. hhamzah49, I have tried to use the bootloader unlock in the flash tool, but it simply waits for me to connect in flash mode, which is what I am unable to do. There is not even an opportunity of using a SD card since I cannot start the phone either normally or in a recovery environment.
LaZiODROID, you're the man for going into so much detail, and yes I am looking forward to trying out loads of ROMs if possible, however I can't consider such luxuries until I've flashed the phone back to stock! It seems the bootloader probably has a lot to do with it, and I wish I could confirm one way or another if it is locked or not, but I don't see a way to do that in the phone's current state. I bought it from Amazon UK in October or thereabouts, so perhaps that might give you a clue - I would assume it is locked for now, but happy to try the process working on the assumption that it is unlocked if that is likely to help.
I am already using the Flash Tool you suggested and have OKed the drivers signature on Windows 7. I understand about not connecting the phone prior to preparing the flash tool (in flashmode) - and making sure it is fully off by pressing power and volume down until I feel the three vibrations indicating the phone is fully off - but all this seems to be immaterial as I am never able to connect in flash mode. Only the blue light ever appears, never the green one.
You say it is likely that I will not be able to connect the phone in fast boot mode because my bootloader is locked, however I am ONLY able to connect in fast boot mode so if I am not able to flash via fast boot, I am not sure what other course of action to take.
I think I understand now about the unlocked bootloader and having to source suitable ROMs when the time comes, but not quite there yet.
I have uploaded several images of my current connection via Command Prompt, Device Manager, Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 & DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17. I also noticed that when I start DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 with no ADB drivers running in Windows Task Manager Processes, two instances of the ADB driver appear, each leading back to DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 and each a slightly different size. When I try to run the Rooting Toolkit, the command prompt simply says "daemon started successfully", but nothing happens after this. If I kill one of the two ADB processes, this seems to start the program off, but to no avail since "device not found" is displayed repeatedly.
Anyway, my comatose phone and I remain on standby ready to try whatever it takes.
LaZiODROID said:
Detail is always good - much better than a "i rooted my phone and now it doesn't work" post. I agree, information is in many different places - very easy for that to happen.
Yes - that is, if your bootloader was Locked when you started this whole adventure. - Maybe but maybe not!, No - the bootloader unlock is a whole process in itself. DoomLord's (fantastic) root kit will root your phone - meaning, it will root your phone's current system, to allow read/write access to the system's files. When you unlock the bootloader, that allows you to write to partitions (kernel aka boot, radio/baseband? etc.)
Since right now, what you need to be able to do is flash a stock FTF (to get your phone working again), make sure your phone is disconnected from the PC. Drivers --- all you should need is Sony PC Companion installed (which installs base drivers for the phone), and Flashtool (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1943886). After you install Flashtool, you will need to go into its folder - inside of there is a "drivers" folder. go in there and run the EXE. On the left side, make sure to click/check the driver for your phone (xperia T or TL or LT30p or whatever), plus the Fastboot driver, plus the Flashmode driver. Let it do the install. **NOTE** i dont know if Win7 has "driver signature enforcement" - if you notice the drivers are failing to install, that could be why. Look into how to temporarily disable driver signature enforcement and try these 3 drivers again. You will need them!!
Stop here for a second - For the purpose of flashing an FTF (i.e. getting your phone back to working state), do not connect the phone yet.
When using Flashmode, don't connect the phone at all - Choose flashmode, then choose the FTF, then wait for it to process the files, then it will pop up to tell you when to connect the phone. And this is very important - make sure the phone is fully OFF, then, hold the VOLDOWN button, then plug the usb cable in - when you see Flashmode start moving along, you can let go of the VOLDOWN button... and put the phone down gently .. you dont want to distrub this delicate process .
This may all depend on your bootloader - if your bootloader is locked, you likely cannot get the phone into Fastboot mode.
Right - flashing via fastboot may not be possible right now if your bootloader is locked.
Yes - let's skip the kernels for now - and get you flashing a fresh FTF so you can start over. I suggest that once the FTF is flashed, and the phone can boot normally, you dial the Service Menu number and look to see if your phone has "Bootloader Unlock Allowed: Yes" or "Bootloader Unlock Allowed: No". -If it says NO, it means NO! There is currently (as of Feb3/2014) no way to get around this. This means your bootloader cannot be unlocked, which means no custom kernels, and no fastboot! Custom ROMS can still be flashed - just those that are Locked Bootloader-friendly (meaning, the custom rom operates just fine/is based on the Stock kernel - whatever version is preferred will be mentioned in the dev's first post of the thread). There are a few.. like XperimenT and T-Hybrid. I like those.
I'm going to be safe and assume yours says No (like mine, because everyone should suffer with me!! ) You can then ROOT the system like you did, then install CWM Recovery for locked bootloaders (v8!! dont use v9 for now), then you can flash a rom or do whatever. If the custom rom you're installing is based on a stock kernel whose version number is different from your phone's base, then you may be able to find kernel zips that are flashable via CWM - since they are stock kernels, the flash will be allowed because they are signed or whatever. Example: Since you're going for LT30p .141 FTF, you're on the 141 kernel. If the rom you're installing says it recommends the .145 kernel, find the LT30P .145 kernel zip. You can flash that right after flashing the ROM. I think that the 141/145 kernels are similar to each other so in this case, you may not even have to flash from 141 to 145. But you will - because you will become addicted to flashing like the rest of us and you will want to observe/compare how the ROM behaves on each.
I think what it's really asking you is to Unlock Your Bootloader. Unlocking the bootloader is kind of considered a global root (because it allows writing to any partition on the phone.
Yes - hopefully above we have tackled that.
Agreed!! Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
man . you got some real patience to write all those. its just what i wrote in twoo lines :silly:
---------- Post added at 01:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:41 AM ----------
pfhastie said:
Thanks for the considered responses. hhamzah49, I have tried to use the bootloader unlock in the flash tool, but it simply waits for me to connect in flash mode, which is what I am unable to do. There is not even an opportunity of using a SD card since I cannot start the phone either normally or in a recovery environment.
LaZiODROID, you're the man for going into so much detail, and yes I am looking forward to trying out loads of ROMs if possible, however I can't consider such luxuries until I've flashed the phone back to stock! It seems the bootloader probably has a lot to do with it, and I wish I could confirm one way or another if it is locked or not, but I don't see a way to do that in the phone's current state. I bought it from Amazon UK in October or thereabouts, so perhaps that might give you a clue - I would assume it is locked for now, but happy to try the process working on the assumption that it is unlocked if that is likely to help.
I am already using the Flash Tool you suggested and have OKed the drivers signature on Windows 7. I understand about not connecting the phone prior to preparing the flash tool (in flashmode) - and making sure it is fully off by pressing power and volume down until I feel the three vibrations indicating the phone is fully off - but all this seems to be immaterial as I am never able to connect in flash mode. Only the blue light ever appears, never the green one.
You say it is likely that I will not be able to connect the phone in fast boot mode because my bootloader is locked, however I am ONLY able to connect in fast boot mode so if I am not able to flash via fast boot, I am not sure what other course of action to take.
I think I understand now about the unlocked bootloader and having to source suitable ROMs when the time comes, but not quite there yet.
I have uploaded several images of my current connection via Command Prompt, Device Manager, Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 & DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17. I also noticed that when I start DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 with no ADB drivers running in Windows Task Manager Processes, two instances of the ADB driver appear, each leading back to DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 and each a slightly different size. When I try to run the Rooting Toolkit, the command prompt simply says "daemon started successfully", but nothing happens after this. If I kill one of the two ADB processes, this seems to start the program off, but to no avail since "device not found" is displayed repeatedly.
Anyway, my comatose phone and I remain on standby ready to try whatever it takes.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bro we got two buttons vol up and vol down. while connecting to flashtool ,holding the vol up key enters fastboot mode, and holding vol down key enters flashmode. if even holding vol down key makes u enter fastboot mode!!! try vol up key. i m just not sure about it. just give it a shot
rough map
romeoofair said:
man . you got some real patience to write all those. its just what i wrote in twoo lines :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty much. You can tell it's doing my head in surely ("Don't call me Shirley").
Anyway, the devil is in the details. I am convinced this can be done once all the parameters are crystal clear.
pfhastie said:
Pretty much. You can tell it's doing my head in surely ("Don't call me Shirley").
Anyway, the devil is in the details. I am convinced this can be done once all the parameters are crystal clear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
anyway flashtool is the best sol for your issue bro. hope your device gets back on track soon. sorry i was too lazy to write a long post. so i gave it roughly
pfhastie said:
Pretty much. You can tell it's doing my head in surely ("Don't call me Shirley").
Anyway, the devil is in the details. I am convinced this can be done once all the parameters are crystal clear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
try to do a hard reset; (while NOT connected via usb or something) hold power+vol up, it will vibrate 1 time, and then 3 times quick. After that try to connect the usb (NOT while pressing any buttons) and press vol down+power
That should connect it into flashmode.
romeoofair said:
man . you got some real patience to write all those. its just what i wrote in twoo lines :silly:
---------- Post added at 01:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:41 AM ----------
bro we got two buttons vol up and vol down. while connecting to flashtool ,holding the vol up key enters fastboot mode, and holding vol down key enters flashmode. if even holding vol down key makes u enter fastboot mode!!! try vol up key. i m just not sure about it. just give it a shot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, I'm totally aware that this seems to be the main clincher, if I can somehow get it into flash mode (with green light), but I have tried connecting it pressing every combination of button I can think of, but it only ever connects in fast boot (with blue light). I'm just gonna grab a bite just now, but will try this some more right after and let you know (turning the phone off with one vibration, then three, up and down buttons etc). Thanks again for now.
romeoofair said:
man . you got some real patience to write all those.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. A patient attitude and thorough reply from others is what has kept me coming back to this forum.
its just what i wrote in twoo lines :silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I disagree.
pfhastie said:
You say it is likely that I will not be able to connect the phone in fast boot mode because my bootloader is locked,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe I said "if", not "because". The status was unknown to me. I couldn't say anything certain about your device.
I have uploaded several images of my current connection via Command Prompt, Device Manager, Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 & DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17. I also noticed that when I start DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 with no ADB drivers running in Windows Task Manager Processes, two instances of the ADB driver appear, each leading back to DooMLoRD's Easy Rooting Toolkit 17 and each a slightly different size. When I try to run the Rooting Toolkit, the command prompt simply says "daemon started successfully", but nothing happens after this. If I kill one of the two ADB processes, this seems to start the program off, but to no avail since "device not found" is displayed repeatedly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since your phone doesn't boot into a system, I'm not sure if DoomLord's rooting kit will help you. What is there to root? There's no Android system running yet for it to root (right?).
Great news
You beautiful, beautiful people!
I managed to get the phone into flash mode by following your exact instructions to turn the phone fully off when disconnected from the PC (by pressing power & volume up until I felt three vibrations following a single vibration), then connected the phone again WITHOUT pressing the volume down button (as I had always been doing before), then, after the red light came on and the Sony logo appeared, pressing power & volume up again until suddenly the beautiful green light lit up and I was able to flash the phone back to stock firmware (LT30P_9.1.A.1.141_PL.ftf). I lost flashmode the first time because I was so shocked, and there doesn't seem to be time to hang around, but the second time I connected it again the firmware flashed immediately, fairly quickly and without any issues and I am now looking at my freshly started phone and the virgin Sony Android screen.
I have to say this process is unquestionably difficult to explain over the internet, probably because there is no universal implementation of the buttons, but at least once you know how, you are sorted for future problems (of this type at least).
I swear to god, I feel about a stone lighter as this was really hanging over me - not only am I too skint to be worrying about dead phones and warranty issues, but now I feel more secure testing things out, and might even be able to help others in the same predicament in future. I'm not sure if all the excessive detail was warranted, but better to err on the side of caution as a general principle I believe.
My sincere thanks to everyone for helping me out! You have given me a great introduction to the site and I look forward to any and all future communications.
Sadly, I have a pile of crap to attend to, now I know the phone is working, so I will regather my strength for a fresh attempt at rooting the phone (with DooMLoRD Easy Rooting Toolkit 18 For Sony Xperia Devices), installing a recovery environment (CWM v8 as opposed to v9), then flashing a suitable ROM tomorrow evening. I checked my service menu and it states, "Rooting status: Bootloader unlock allowed: Yes," which I trust opens my options a bit more. The two ROMs I am initially wishing to try are CyanogenMod and KitKat, but would be nice to know I could try others without more problems. I am now also aware to backup the TA Partition via the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 before rooting the phone and assume I should hold off reinstalling my Titanium Backups until I am happy with a particular ROM.
I expect this isn't the place to go over these things (although I am quite happy to do so), so I will start a new thread tomorrow to go over my best plan of action.
Thanks again, and I hope this helps out someone else in the same position!
Wicked! Happy flashing. I'm jealous of your unlockable bootloader!
LaZiODROID said:
Wicked! Happy flashing. I'm jealous of your unlockable bootloader!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, LaZiODROID. You've been more than helpful so I trust you don't mind my quickly confirming what I now understand about the bootloader now you have so succinctly brought it to my attention.
I previously hadn't taken into account the state of the bootloader when I tried to flash a ROM, so my failure (Status 7 Error) probably suggests that the bootloader must currently be locked, although it is possible to unlock it on my particular handset (but not yours), is that correct?
All I knew when I used Doomlord's Rooting Kit was that the bootloader would not be affected thus preserving my warranty status, however it would be advisable for me to unlock the bootloader using the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 so I can install custom ROMs without having to worry about special packages like XperimenT & T-Hybrid, is that also correct?
The only final query I have is, if I do unlock the bootloader (using the Android Flash Tool) in order to flash custom ROMs, can I then lock it again for the purposes of my warranty?
I shall assume the bootloader should be unlocked AFTER rooting the device, but BEFORE installing the CWM Recovery Environment.
Thanks again! I will rest easier tonight.
I think hhamzah49 is the hero who got you going with that nice trick (to get you into flashmode)! I guess it turned out that you didn't have driver issues after all.
pfhastie said:
I previously hadn't taken into account the state of the bootloader when I tried to flash a ROM, so my failure (Status 7 Error) probably suggests that the bootloader must currently be locked, although it is possible to unlock it on my particular handset (but not yours), is that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes. If you're gonna do it, read up (re: backing up your TA, etc.) I have read with bootloader unlocking, you also lose DRM apps like TrackID and the Bravia engine? If you dont use those then you probably won't mind.
All I knew when I used Doomlord's Rooting Kit was that the bootloader would not be affected thus preserving my warranty status
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right.
however it would be advisable for me to unlock the bootloader using the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 so I can install custom ROMs without having to worry about special packages like XperimenT & T-Hybrid, is that also correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is also the official Sony method of unlocking your bootloader (see the all-in-one thread). Re: ROMS... I guess it's not so much "worrying" about roms like XperimenT/T-Hybrid - they are good roms and they install via CWM recovery just like any other custom ROM, and they will run on an unlocked bootloader. You just have more ROM selection with an unlocked bootloader because you can use the kernels that ROMS like Cyaongen needs.
The only final query I have is, if I do unlock the bootloader (using the Android Flash Tool) in order to flash custom ROMs, can I then lock it again for the purposes of my warranty?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read up to be sure - but I see in Flashtool that there is an FTF for bootloader re-locking (but more importantly it is linked in the all-in-one thread also)... so it sounds like it won't be too hard to re-lock if you need to.
I shall assume the bootloader should be unlocked AFTER rooting the device,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes so you can back up your TA after rooting?
but BEFORE installing the CWM Recovery Environment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That I'm not certain of. I think that recovery can be installed whether your bootloader is locked or unlocked. For unlocked bootloaders, there are kernels that have recovery built in so you can just fastboot flash one of them.
pfhastie said:
You beautiful, beautiful people!
I managed to get the phone into flash mode by following your exact instructions to turn the phone fully off when disconnected from the PC (by pressing power & volume up until I felt three vibrations following a single vibration), then connected the phone again WITHOUT pressing the volume down button (as I had always been doing before), then, after the red light came on and the Sony logo appeared, pressing power & volume up again until suddenly the beautiful green light lit up and I was able to flash the phone back to stock firmware (LT30P_9.1.A.1.141_PL.ftf). I lost flashmode the first time because I was so shocked, and there doesn't seem to be time to hang around, but the second time I connected it again the firmware flashed immediately, fairly quickly and without any issues and I am now looking at my freshly started phone and the virgin Sony Android screen.
I have to say this process is unquestionably difficult to explain over the internet, probably because there is no universal implementation of the buttons, but at least once you know how, you are sorted for future problems (of this type at least).
I swear to god, I feel about a stone lighter as this was really hanging over me - not only am I too skint to be worrying about dead phones and warranty issues, but now I feel more secure testing things out, and might even be able to help others in the same predicament in future. I'm not sure if all the excessive detail was warranted, but better to err on the side of caution as a general principle I believe.
My sincere thanks to everyone for helping me out! You have given me a great introduction to the site and I look forward to any and all future communications.
Sadly, I have a pile of crap to attend to, now I know the phone is working, so I will regather my strength for a fresh attempt at rooting the phone (with DooMLoRD Easy Rooting Toolkit 18 For Sony Xperia Devices), installing a recovery environment (CWM v8 as opposed to v9), then flashing a suitable ROM tomorrow evening. I checked my service menu and it states, "Rooting status: Bootloader unlock allowed: Yes," which I trust opens my options a bit more. The two ROMs I am initially wishing to try are CyanogenMod and KitKat, but would be nice to know I could try others without more problems. I am now also aware to backup the TA Partition via the Android Flash Tool 0.9.13.0 before rooting the phone and assume I should hold off reinstalling my Titanium Backups until I am happy with a particular ROM.
I expect this isn't the place to go over these things (although I am quite happy to do so), so I will start a new thread tomorrow to go over my best plan of action.
Thanks again, and I hope this helps out someone else in the same position!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so my idea about vol up button instead of vol down button worked !!!!!!!! . its usually for entering fastboot mode. i just gave a try :silly:
LaZiODROID said:
I think hhamzah49 is the hero who got you going with that nice trick (to get you into flashmode)! I guess it turned out that you didn't have driver issues after all.
Yes. If you're gonna do it, read up (re: backing up your TA, etc.) I have read with bootloader unlocking, you also lose DRM apps like TrackID and the Bravia engine? If you dont use those then you probably won't mind.
Right. There is also the official Sony method of unlocking your bootloader (see the all-in-one thread). Re: ROMS... I guess it's not so much "worrying" about roms like XperimenT/T-Hybrid - they are good roms and they install via CWM recovery just like any other custom ROM, and they will run on an unlocked bootloader. You just have more ROM selection with an unlocked bootloader because you can use the kernels that ROMS like Cyaongen needs.
Read up to be sure - but I see in Flashtool that there is an FTF for bootloader re-locking (but more importantly it is linked in the all-in-one thread also)... so it sounds like it won't be too hard to re-lock if you need to.
Yes so you can back up your TA after rooting? That I'm not certain of. I think that recovery can be installed whether your bootloader is locked or unlocked. For unlocked bootloaders, there are kernels that have recovery built in so you can just fastboot flash one of them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i feel awesome! Good luck trying roms and stuff!
Im really sorry for posting this question, but im really really noob at this.
I Have a Xperia SP C5303 with stock Android 4.3 and 12.1.A.1.205 and bootloader locked.
My phone is getting extremely slow at everthing, all applications take huge time to load, sometimes even crash, i cleared all cache on applications, even deleted all my messages (1.5years) and nothing worked. Started in safe mode and its pretty fast.
Im tempted to update my SP to a custom rom 4.4.x or even 5.xx .....but i really dont know nothing about it. Dont know how should i proceed and what steps should i take to backup and prevent any problem in case of something goes wrong.
I already used the "towelroot" and installed SuperSU from google playstore and it says its rooted, but already read somewhere that towelroot doesnt actually really root.
I really really appreciate a huge help on this if possible.
Thank you very much.
bravept said:
Im really sorry for posting this question, but im really really noob at this.
I Have a Xperia SP C5303 with stock Android 4.3 and 12.1.A.1.205 and bootloader locked.
My phone is getting extremely slow at everthing, all applications take huge time to load, sometimes even crash, i cleared all cache on applications, even deleted all my messages (1.5years) and nothing worked. Started in safe mode and its pretty fast.
Im tempted to update my SP to a custom rom 4.4.x or even 5.xx .....but i really dont know nothing about it. Dont know how should i proceed and what steps should i take to backup and prevent any problem in case of something goes wrong.
I already used the "towelroot" and installed SuperSU from google playstore and it says its rooted, but already read somewhere that towelroot doesnt actually really root.
I really really appreciate a huge help on this if possible.
Thank you very much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
first of all (search for doing this !! )
take a TA partition backup and then unlock your bootloader .....then install the recoveries on the stock ROM>>then replay to me after that
Ok. Thank you.
Already did the TA Backup with Backup-TA-9.11, now moving on to search "unlocking bootloader"....
bravept said:
Ok. Thank you.
Already did the TA Backup with Backup-TA-9.11, now moving on to search "unlocking bootloader"....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think unlocking your bootloader resets everything so backup your apps for re installation once your are done.
I unlocked my bootloader the good old fashioned way via fastboot :
1 - Check if unlocking possible by typing *#*#7378423#*#* in the dialer and going into Service info > Configuration.
2 - If it says something like Bootloader unlock allowed - Yes then its unlockable. If its already unlocked, it will say something along those line as well.
If neither option appears then it isn't unlockable.
3 - Get the unlock code from Sony after filling the necessary details along with the IMEI no. of the phone.
3 - Open command prompt in the adb & flashboot folder by holding Shift + right click and selecting the "open command window here" option.
4 - Type fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version to check if device is connected properly.
5 - Type fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce oem unlock 0xKEY. Repalce KEY with the code that was received from Sony and hit Enter.
Alternatively the BLU option in FlashTool can be used to simplify things as it automates most of the above procedure. It can also be used to relock your bootloader.
There's also a new app called Kingo SONY Bootloader Unlock that apparently unlocks your bootloader with one click. Check it out.
I was doing that at the moment. Im using Fastboot also ....since i didnt find other ways
Already made a copy of everthing i can remember and used Titan backup also.
My phone says "Bootloader unlock allowed : no" , but im still trying doing all the thing....i read somewhere that sometimes works.
At the moment im stuck in connecting the phone in the computer with volume up ...and testing the fastboot getvar version to check if the phone is connected....but stays there....waiting for device...and nothing ...
bravept said:
I was doing that at the moment. Im using Fastboot also ....since i didnt find other ways
Already made a copy of everthing i can remember and used Titan backup also.
My phone says "Bootloader unlock allowed : no" , but im still trying doing all the thing....i read somewhere that sometimes works.
At the moment im stuck in connecting the phone in the computer with volume up ...and testing the fastboot getvar version to check if the phone is connected....but stays there....waiting for device...and nothing ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If it says no then dunno what the chances of success are.
Came across this Youtube tutorial : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Li8Eim6gugw
Don't know how legit it is since its been posted a few months back and there are no comments at all so please proceed with caution and of course don't blame me if you brick your device
Also did you try the Kingo unlock app I mentioned?
Nothing works...cant really connect in Fastboot mode...i tried everthing...even in 3 diferent computers...nothing works.
Dont know if "bootloader unlock allowed : no" means that i cannot enter in fastboot mode....or if im doing something wrong...
Just install some 4.4.4 lbl build, for example cm11 by mateo337 is really good and even up-to-date.
You will not be able to unlock the boot loader i had XSP that said no and i was not able to do anything about it.
Dont use 5.x.x builds, they are really outdated and have a lot of bugs.
So, then i suppose the next step its to install a LBL Recovery? So i can boot in recovery to flash the custom rom....right?
bravept said:
Nothing works...cant really connect in Fastboot mode...i tried everthing...even in 3 diferent computers...nothing works.
Dont know if "bootloader unlock allowed : no" means that i cannot enter in fastboot mode....or if im doing something wrong...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No you should still be able to enter fastboot mode. Are you using the latest version of FlashTool and have you installed all 3 required drivers? Does your phone show up in device manager when you connect it in fast boot mode?
I am not sure abt the last 2 procedures I posted but the first 2 require your phone to boot into fastboot and stay there till the job's done.
bravept said:
So, then i suppose the next step its to install a LBL Recovery? So i can boot in recovery to flash the custom rom....right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. Since your phone's rooted now, you can follow a LBL procedure for flashing a custom recovery to allow you to install custom ROMs.
Sent from my Xperia SP using XDA Free mobile app
UPDATE AS OF 16 OF MAY 2023
This project isn't working right now, but I am still working on it.
However due the complicated nature of the projects and the fact that I have little free time means this project will probably still take time to get to functional state.
If anyone has any idea please contact me, any hell is welcome!
______________________________________________________
Hi!
So I decided I wanted to flash custom software into my phone, but it's bootloader was locked so I figure a way to unlock it!
I am going to leave 2 methods:
1. It's the most risky but has more chance of working. The idea is to flash the whole firmware again to the phone, but from an unlocked model.
This is posible using the EDL mode and Sahara protocol.
The EDL mode is an emergency mode which allows user to flash firmware in case fastboot and ADB fails. It's also available in all Qualcomm devices.
It is also completly independent from the rest of the phone, and it's the first bootloader we have. If everything is ok it triggers the second bootloader(fastboot) which then boots the system(See the diagram if you want).
As we want to reflash the firmware keep in mind this could brick your phone and I won't take any resposability if it happen
Materials:
-QPST
-Qualcomm Driver
-Working USB Cable
-Fastboot and ADB set up and working
-knoledge on using ADB
Procedure:
1. Download and install Qualcomm drivers
2. Download and install QPST
4.Downlaod the MBN file
3. Reboot
4. Connect the phone to the PC, then open cmd and run "adb reboot edl".
If you are on fastboot mode, then try "fastboot oem edl", "fastboot reboot-edl", "fastboot reboot edl". One of this should work
5. Go to C:\Program Files\Qualcomm\QPST\bin\
6.Open QPST Config(it's a blue phone, see picture)
7. Click on "Start clients" and then "Software download". A new window should open
8. Now we need to select the phone image using the browser button
9. Click on start to flash ⚡️
Please be aware the method wasn't tested, so this could brick your phone.
If you decide to try it, and have questions or ru into problems during the process, please let me know.
Also remember to take a backup of your data, as it is goig to be lost. ℹ
____________________________________________________________________________
As for the second method, I tried it and it didn't work for me, but is completly safe so you may want to give it a try.
1. Enrrol on the android 12 beta program, AND MAKE A BACKUP OF YOUR DATA
2. Install the update
3. Now exit from the beta program
4. Now you should have an update, it's a rollback to the stable version of android 12. After you installed the update the phone will restart and factory reset.
5. Do the setup as normal
In the end you may have unlocked the bootloader, to check just go to developer options and check if it is enabled or not.
Can we get a video of how to do this?
trzpro said:
View attachment 5491701
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So you attempted one of these methods and did it work or not work.What device did you use?
trzpro said:
View attachment 5491701
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That seems to be a probelm with the drivers. Did you install everything properly?
You may want to uninstall them and reinstall again to see if we solve the problem. Also try to run the app with admin privileges
Let me know how if you have more issues or if this doesn;t solve the problem at all.
AtrixHDMan said:
Can we get a video of how to do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can make a video, but I can only publish it on January. Untill then I think the guide is easy to understand so if you want to try the method you shouldn't have problems.
#mcl said:
I can make a video, but I can only publish it on January. Untill then I think the guide is easy to understand so if you want to try the method you shouldn't have problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand thanks
#mcl said:
这似乎是驱动程序的问题。您是否正确安装了所有内容？
您可能需要卸载它们并重新安装，看看我们是否能解决问题。还尝试以管理员权限运行该应用程序
如果您有更多问题，或者这根本无法解决问题，请告诉我
MOD EDIT: You may need to uninstall them and reinstall to see if we can fix the problem. Also tried running the app with admin rights
Let me know if you have more questions, or if this doesn't solve the problem at all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
同样的问题，无法解决。
MOD Edit: Same problem, can't solve it.
Looks like this is a common issue, I will look the documentation of QPST and see if I see the cause of the problem. Thank you guys for helping up this project
So I found that that version of QPST is outdated(it's the 2.7 build 140 and the latest version is 2.7 build 460). I am leaving a zip with it here.
Try and see if this time around we manage to unlock the bootloader
MOD EDIT:
This is the latest version
这是最新版本
#mcl, I have the same problem as you have, I live in Portugal and bought a used Pixel 4 but apparently it's origin is the US, Verizon. From your original post I take it that you didn't try this method yourself and hope others will try? Or were you successful?
for anyone in the same situation, read this thread: https://android.stackexchange.com/q...ed-against-physical-tampering-in-google-pixel
My guess is: if your pixel's " OEM unlocking " is greyed out it will not be possible to unlock. Although I didn't try the EDL route I'm quit sure that at some point you will get a message "bootloader is locked"
gentle_giant said:
for anyone in the same situation, read this thread: https://android.stackexchange.com/q...ed-against-physical-tampering-in-google-pixel
My guess is: if your pixel's " OEM unlocking " is greyed out it will not be possible to unlock. Although I didn't try the EDL route I'm quit sure that at some point you will get a message "bootloader is locked"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey I am quite busy recently so I haven't really had time to look more on the thread, though I believe there will always be a way, it may be hard to find but no OS is perfect, and Android is no exception. As it turns out, even if this method worked, when it connect to the internet there will be a high chance that using the IMEI of the phone it will "remember" it's a locked model and won't allow you to flash new firmware.
However I am working on a new method, which is also safer, though I have still work to do, so when It is ready I am going to publish another guide.
Good luck all untill them
Hi mcl, my problem is: I do like to change OS and I did so on my previous HTC M7 and M10. And these 2 phones still function with PixelExperience 10 or 11.
But at best I'm a simple layman with a lot of enthusiasm.
Anyway, I will keep an eye on this thread and hopefully you will find time to make this new method work!
By the way, I see that we are "neighbors", I live in Portugal.
gentle_giant said:
Hi mcl, my problem is: I do like to change OS and I did so on my previous HTC M7 and M10. And these 2 phones still function with PixelExperience 10 or 11.
But at best I'm a simple layman with a lot of enthusiasm.
Anyway, I will keep an eye on this thread and hopefully you will find time to make this new method work!
By the way, I see that we are "neighbors", I live in Portugal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hahah yeah we are definitely neighbors.
Well I do want to become a software engineer though right now I am just a busy enthusiastic.
I also really enjoy custom OS, when I had my Galaxy S9 I used to have custom ROMs.
Hope I manage to find a new solution as soon as posible for all if you guys!!!
How is bootloader state protected against physical tampering in Google Pixel
A week ago my professor's Pixel 4 XL was stolen from his desk when he left it there for charging. The phone has been shut down. It had few minutes of battery left when it was plugged in charging. T...
android.stackexchange.com
any luck with that? can I backup my firmware before doing it?
darknmy said:
How is bootloader state protected against physical tampering in Google Pixel
A week ago my professor's Pixel 4 XL was stolen from his desk when he left it there for charging. The phone has been shut down. It had few minutes of battery left when it was plugged in charging. T...
android.stackexchange.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We are not doing physical atack, so that is not a problem for us.
Also, I don't believe the pixel 4 XL is perfect, for sure there are errors and security vulnerabilities. We just need to find them.