The built-in backup and restore - Moto X Q&A

In setting, there is a backup and restore. It seems to suggest that application data will be backed up and restored upon re-installation of an app.
Does this actually work? My quick test seems to say no but maybe I am just not patient enough.
Thanks

redhonker said:
In setting, there is a backup and restore. It seems to suggest that application data will be backed up and restored upon re-installation of an app.
Does this actually work? My quick test seems to say no but maybe I am just not patient enough.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't work, and every time I have to wipe a non rooted phone I curse Google for not having a back up solution that works as seamlessly as Apple's.

According to Google there is, but I refuse to believe it.:silly: Never once has it actually worked.
---------- Post added at 05:15 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:14 PM ----------
gunnyman said:
Doesn't work, and every time I have to wipe a non rooted phone I curse Google for not having a back up solution that works as seamlessly as Apple's.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
iOS doesn't restore app data either unless you do an itunes restore. Unless that's what you're talking about, then never mind.

I think the problem is that Google provides an API and a framework for backing up, but apps need to use that API for their data to get backed up. I think for compatibility reasons, most apps do not implement this API. It truly sucks, and it's amazing there isn't some clean way to do this without rooting your phone.

You can use ADB backup to back up most of the stuff on your device. As the other user pointed out, most apps don't use the built in backup. It can restore many things though, but often falls well short of a full device restore.

Related

"Backup to Google"

Does anyone know what the Backup features native to Android actually do? I couldn't find help articles on it. I.e., I know one of them says it will restore WiFi passwords and bookmarks but what else? Then there is an option to "Backup App Data". Is that actually doing what something like Titanium would do?
Bump
Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk
I have my device set to backup everything with Google. When I went to exchange my Moto X, it automatically downloaded all apps I had installed on the previous one, my Wi-Fi passwords, my pictures from my camera, even the custom background I was using. I did notice that while it restored all my apps, it did not restore the data associated with them. For instance, I still had to log in to my instagram account, and my progress on Plague Inc was reset. Still, saved a lot of time having to download all my apps individually from the market, and transferring all the pics I has taken was kinda nice as well.
yea it only backs up the apk and thats it.
drksilenc said:
yea it only backs up the apk and thats it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which personally I find kind of worthless, without backing up data/settings what is the point really?
But I have paid versions of G Cloud and TiBu which take care of all my backup needs, which I think both those apps are well worth the cost.
agreed jexx until they backup all your settings ill still be reliant on titanium backup. That is really the only reason i want root anymore.

Backup the phone

Hi,
I like to know if there's a way to back up the phone without root, if something went wrong, like errors and so. By backup I mean back up all the settings, wallpapers, themes, like the backup we can make with recovery.
Thank you for the help.
soilentgreen said:
Hi,
I like to know if there's a way to back up the phone without root, if something went wrong, like errors and so. By backup I mean back up all the settings, wallpapers, themes, like the backup we can make with recovery.
Thank you for the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah comes with samsung backup.
Nick216ohio said:
Yeah comes with samsung backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And this is the only way?
soilentgreen said:
And this is the only way?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is but this seems like the best so far. This is coming from a person who was die hard titanium backup fan. Actually surprised how well it works.
Nick216ohio said:
There is but this seems like the best so far. This is coming from a person who was die hard titanium backup fan. Actually surprised how well it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you share the second best backup?
Thank you.
Also, what is the best order to use Google restore and / or Samsung restore? I used the Samsung cloud Backup for a restore and was rather disappointed ?
So, what is best practice to prepare for a hard reset and restore? I do it this way:
- make backups in all apps that support it, like nova launcher prime, nine email and so on
- do a Samsung Backup
After hard reset, I follow the process and restore when offered, Google and Samsung. However, afaics, no app data is coming back.
Am I holding it wrong? ?
soilentgreen said:
Can you share the second best backup?
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 2nd options being other apps from play store. I haven't tried those on this phone. If you're rooted definitely titanium backup.
corwin_amber said:
Also, what is the best order to use Google restore and / or Samsung restore? I used the Samsung cloud Backup for a restore and was rather disappointed ?
So, what is best practice to prepare for a hard reset and restore? I do it this way:
- make backups in all apps that support it, like nova launcher prime, nine email and so on
- do a Samsung Backup
After hard reset, I follow the process and restore when offered, Google and Samsung. However, afaics, no app data is coming back.
Am I holding it wrong? ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What disappointed you? No app data coming back is normal. Just like when you do a titanium backup restore. It's adviced to restore with no app data. Because when you do tend to get a lot of issues. Your just getting apps back.
Nick216ohio said:
The 2nd options being other apps from play store. I haven't tried those on this phone. If you're rooted definitely titanium backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not rooted and looking apps from play store.
I would appreciate it if someone could recommend good apps.
Good topic .
For some reason my restoring process is always messed up when I use the Samsung smart switch. Since it restores via smartswitch and then Google restores also.
Moving forward should one have Google back restore enabled and also use smartswitch as well or is it safe to assume smartswitch on its own is adequate?
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
@Nick216ohio Ok, I see. I am just comparing to iOS and even Windows phone / mobile restore. iOS / iCloud restore is brilliant, WP / WM restore depended on App support.
What is the situation like with Android, can apps support app data restore via Google restore?
This whole topic is a little unclear to me, is there a resource where it is explained?
Thanks ?
corwin_amber said:
@Nick216ohio Ok, I see. I am just comparing to iOS and even Windows phone / mobile restore. iOS / iCloud restore is brilliant, WP / WM restore depended on App support.
What is the situation like with Android, can apps support app data restore via Google restore?
This whole topic is a little unclear to me, is there a resource where it is explained?
Thanks ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can restore data, but like I said before causes issues. Like force closes, apps not working right, etc. Wish we could restore data without issues. Just google and you will get clear answer. I am to lazy to explain. Apple does some things better and same with android. They both got +/- overall.
But here's some good news for all of us>
http://www.androidpolice.com/2017/1...ow-restore-backed-data-initial-setup-process/
corwin_amber said:
@Nick216ohio Ok, I see. I am just comparing to iOS and even Windows phone / mobile restore. iOS / iCloud restore is brilliant, WP / WM restore depended on App support.
What is the situation like with Android, can apps support app data restore via Google restore?
This whole topic is a little unclear to me, is there a resource where it is explained?
Thanks [emoji847]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apple backup and restore is eons ahead of Android backup and restore.
I'm an Android fanboi BTW.
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
I rooted last week and so tried to prepare as much as I could for the factory reset step. I don't use Google or Samsung backup for apps, I prefer things local to me (I am too used to TiBu coming from a rooted Note 3).
I backed up the apps that allow an export of setting/content as previously mentioned in this thread (so like Nine email, Signal Messenger etc), I also used Helium backup which stated it backed up most of my apps & data and then I copied all of internal SD to an external one.
I was disappointed with Helium, it restored all apps and data "successfully" however it didn't actually appear to have done anything. After some googling I manually installed the apps it backed up and then proceeded to restore the data...this actually works for some of the apps but I was left with quite a lot that it did not. I ended up cutting my losses and starting fresh with those apps.
I am now rooted and back onto TiBu which is fine until I need to change to a phone that isn't rooted. I have limited experience with anything Apple but from the sounds of it they do a pretty good job at restoring apps and data but I wouldn't be able to cope with how tight the control is on their devices (which is one element that I expect helps with having a more reliable backup solution).
kaos_king said:
I rooted last week and so tried to prepare as much as I could for the factory reset step. I don't use Google or Samsung backup for apps, I prefer things local to me (I am too used to TiBu coming from a rooted Note 3).
I backed up the apps that allow an export of setting/content as previously mentioned in this thread (so like Nine email, Signal Messenger etc), I also used Helium backup which stated it backed up most of my apps & data and then I copied all of internal SD to an external one.
I was disappointed with Helium, it restored all apps and data "successfully" however it didn't actually appear to have done anything. After some googling I manually installed the apps it backed up and then proceeded to restore the data...this actually works for some of the apps but I was left with quite a lot that it did not. I ended up cutting my losses and starting fresh with those apps.
I am now rooted and back onto TiBu which is fine until I need to change to a phone that isn't rooted. I have limited experience with anything Apple but from the sounds of it they do a pretty good job at restoring apps and data but I wouldn't be able to cope with how tight the control is on their devices (which is one element that I expect helps with having a more reliable backup solution).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This story reminds me a bit of my own.
I'm an Apple AND Android user and just recently got a lot more into using both for the given areas where they excel...
Well, fun fact is that I'm considering going with a Note 9 when it launches and I want to try my luck in staying unrooted there, certainly staying on stock ROM (because I would like to use the SPen to its full extent and many things that Samsung does incorporate into their ROM attract me... Please don't shoot. )
Either way, upon researching backing up Android rooted or not rooted I found out it's an absolute crap shoot on this side of the fence and it'd be incredibly hilarious if it wasn't so sad.
I also doubt Google has any big incentive to fix it, they'd much rather fix cloud backups gluing you to their ecosystem. Pulling a good old Apple. :silly:
The fact is, as far as I found out, please correct me if I'm wrong, the issue is mostly that app developers must flag their apps as allowing to be backed up/not flag it's disallowed. (I read that not setting the flag is treated like a default no, but that's up to the version of the ROM/base Android, this may differ. I do not know)
Apparently, plenty enough apps use that liberty and whilst there is such a flag in iOS as well it's limited to stuff like login credentials afaik.
The general problem here I think is that the history of personal computers and smartphones is not only diagonally aligned chronologically, but also many technologies in smartphones matured as they had become a mass medium for practically the - excuse the blunt wording - dumbest of users. That and the general philosophy of SMART phones (read: it does a lot, but it's easy, it does things for you) and the approachability aspect.
My personal opinion is that this whole mess complicated backups needlessly and could be solved, but I don't want to get overly technical right now at 10pm.
Glassed Silver said:
This story reminds me a bit of my own.
I'm an Apple AND Android user and just recently got a lot more into using both for the given areas where they excel...
Well, fun fact is that I'm considering going with a Note 9 when it launches and I want to try my luck in staying unrooted there, certainly staying on stock ROM (because I would like to use the SPen to its full extent and many things that Samsung does incorporate into their ROM attract me... Please don't shoot. )
Either way, upon researching backing up Android rooted or not rooted I found out it's an absolute crap shoot on this side of the fence and it'd be incredibly hilarious if it wasn't so sad.
I also doubt Google has any big incentive to fix it, they'd much rather fix cloud backups gluing you to their ecosystem. Pulling a good old Apple. :silly:
The fact is, as far as I found out, please correct me if I'm wrong, the issue is mostly that app developers must flag their apps as allowing to be backed up/not flag it's disallowed. (I read that not setting the flag is treated like a default no, but that's up to the version of the ROM/base Android, this may differ. I do not know)
Apparently, plenty enough apps use that liberty and whilst there is such a flag in iOS as well it's limited to stuff like login credentials afaik.
The general problem here I think is that the history of personal computers and smartphones is not only diagonally aligned chronologically, but also many technologies in smartphones matured as they had become a mass medium for practically the - excuse the blunt wording - dumbest of users. That and the general philosophy of SMART phones (read: it does a lot, but it's easy, it does things for you) and the approachability aspect.
My personal opinion is that this whole mess complicated backups needlessly and could be solved, but I don't want to get overly technical right now at 22pm.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep , just thank God for smartswitch. Before that it was even worse!
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
there could be possibly another way, try the cloning apps, like App Cloner, they modify apps before cloning them, and one option is to make the app store its data outside the system directories, in the internal storage, thus your able to save the apps data easily, but i have not fully tired and there are other limitations and enabling too many clone options = random crashes and bugs.
it depends on how important app data backup is for you.
limitations are, every time app updates versions, you must reclone if you need the updates, apps may not work properly.
there are heaps of cool tweaks you can do and i always clone apps that i know I won't need to update much.
Limeybastard said:
Yep , just thank God for smartswitch. Before that it was even worse!
Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Worse? Didn't Kies backup apps at all?
Also, is Smart Switch at least better than any other solution that isn't Titanium Backup? I guess another way to wird this question is:
How is Smart Switch different than other solutions? (also, does it use adb or is it proprietary Samsung technology because Samsung customized the ROM to begin with)
COULD it become better?
I'm really interested in getting the next Note phone, but damn having to root just to get proper backups irks me.
Afaik Samsung doesn't like to service rooted devices, pulling an Apple here, but that may be wrong or outdated info?
Also you apparently lose Knox/Secure Folder?
Does rooting on Samsung's flagships require a custom kernel like you need with Sony's Xperia (currently rocking an Xperia X and the rooting procedure is a joke)
sonhy said:
there could be possibly another way, try the cloning apps, like App Cloner, they modify apps before cloning them, and one option is to make the app store its data outside the system directories, in the internal storage, thus your able to save the apps data easily, but i have not fully tired and there are other limitations and enabling too many clone options = random crashes and bugs.
it depends on how important app data backup is for you.
limitations are, every time app updates versions, you must reclone if you need the updates, apps may not work properly.
there are heaps of cool tweaks you can do and i always clone apps that i know I won't need to update much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Way too much fussing about.
Guess the ball is in Samsung's court, but they seem to agree with the stance that a developer should be able to disallow me to rule against my freedom to do with my personal data as I please. Boo...

Any way to do a full device backup unrooted? Note 9 Snapdragon. Odin maybe? Or ADB?

I wanna make a full device backup, as in a completely recoverable 1:1 copy of the state my Note 9 is in right now. But I really don't need root at the moment so I am avoiding it for now.
By 1:1 copy I mean even firmware, operating system, and so on. Everything that the phone uses to be operational.
The whole point of this is, I heavily set up and customized the interface / launcher / icons / system settings / apps / sync settings / etc to a point I cannot even write a reminder list to myself in case I need to do a fresh start. And I am really pleased with the state of my Note 9 right now. So I wanna be able to have this safely stored.
Additionally it would be nice if I can exclude some folders from the backup (mainly music, movies, photos folders to make the backup size smaller). But that is optional, as I can simply temporarily remove the files before initiating this device backup.
gamekill said:
I wanna make a full device backup, as in a completely recoverable 1:1 copy of the state my Note 9 is in right now. But I really don't need root at the moment so I am avoiding it for now.
By 1:1 copy I mean even firmware, operating system, and so on. Everything that the phone uses to be operational.
The whole point of this is, I heavily set up and customized the interface / launcher / icons / system settings / apps / sync settings / etc to a point I cannot even write a reminder list to myself in case I need to do a fresh start. And I am really pleased with the state of my Note 9 right now. So I wanna be able to have this safely stored.
Additionally it would be nice if I can exclude some folders from the backup (mainly music, movies, photos folders to make the backup size smaller). But that is optional, as I can simply temporarily remove the files before initiating this device backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know if a way to do this unrooted. Samsung Smart Switch gets the closest but it is still not everything. Rooted is the way to go using Titanium Backup.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
strikeIII said:
I don't know if a way to do this unrooted. Samsung Smart Switch gets the closest but it is still not everything. Rooted is the way to go using Titanium Backup.
Sent from my SM-N960U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Titanium Backup can do this relatively easily, I guess. But I would like to not depend on an app for that. So if I decide to root.. any way to do it via PC?
After a few years of own experiences with different android phones, i have to say: i have found no way to get a 100% full recoverable backup without root!
Most of the time, the internal backup programm have lost informations about individual app right management.
Or something was lost using adb as ( using helium backup app) because missing right management when trying to recover things in the system.
Maybe my experiences wasen't complete enough to manage that Challenge.
Upd: i have found new information about "full backup"! Unfortunately it is written in German! Good for me, but bad for you.
Maybe you can translate
https://www.netzwelt.de/system/back...up-ohne-root-smartphone-daten-pc-sichern.html
There seems to be a way to do using "android studio" and "java development kit"
gamekill said:
Titanium Backup can do this relatively easily, I guess. But I would like to not depend on an app for that. So if I decide to root.. any way to do it via PC?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you cant root for obvious reasons. unless you have the sd 9600, dont even think about anything close to having a backup solution or rooting.
read up on what model of phone you acctualy have before having thoughts of grandeur.
Seems like there is no 100% sure way? Or is Titanium Backup really 100% effective?
I was hoping for something like.. creating an ISO image off a disc, or a "Ghost Drive" (very old times stuff) from an HDD.
Well nevermind then, I will just have to keep using my phone as best I can and not mess it up too much.
Not the answer you want at all, but in my experience backing up with Samsung account was more than enough. If you use Nova you can backup your full launcher settings. Samsung will backup your full system settings. Other than per app settings it's basically all you need. Most apps are account based any way. When you refresh the phone it automatically reinstalls apps. I recently did a factory reset and the setup back to what I had is seamless. Maybe I'm not as "heavily setup" as you, but I've had my phone pretty set on customization for a while now and it was easy to get back.
jdubya42 said:
(...) backing up with Samsung account was more than enough. If you use Nova you can backup your full launcher settings. Samsung will backup your full system settings. Other than per app settings it's basically all you need. (...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, might be a good alternative.
Do you think the Samsung backup would include stuff outside the main Settings app?
Like the "one hand operation+" module from Good Lock 2018,
or the quicksettings icons on the statusbar pulldown,
the live wallpaper I downloaded,
or even the Gallery settings,
the S-Pen command center shortcuts etc..
And yes I use Nova Launcher, do you know if the backup includes all customized app icons? i.e. I changed the icons on several apps choosing from a couple of different icon packs.
It is no problem if you can't answer, I am asking out of curiosity only. Because for me it sounds rather complex for the backups to restore all these sort of things. If you have the time then please, by all means.
gamekill said:
Thanks, might be a good alternative.
Do you think the Samsung backup would include stuff outside the main Settings app?
Like the "one hand operation+" module from Good Lock 2018,
or the quicksettings icons on the statusbar pulldown,
the live wallpaper I downloaded,
or even the Gallery settings,
the S-Pen command center shortcuts etc..
And yes I use Nova Launcher, do you know if the backup includes all customized app icons? i.e. I changed the icons on several apps choosing from a couple of different icon packs.
It is no problem if you can't answer, I am asking out of curiosity only. Because for me it sounds rather complex for the backups to restore all these sort of things. If you have the time then please, by all means.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can't speak for the Samsung settings of those things but I can for Nova. I have custom icons set from different packs as well. If you install the icon packs before restoring the data it will restore the icons.
Edit: wallpaper is preserved unless it's an app then you'd need the settings for that app backed up.
bober10113 said:
you cant root for obvious reasons. unless you have the sd 9600, dont even think about anything close to having a backup solution or rooting.
read up on what model of phone you acctualy have before having thoughts of grandeur.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure he ever said he has the N960U. It's possible he has a 9600 or an Exynos model. Unless I missed something?
gamekill said:
Thanks, might be a good alternative.
Do you think the Samsung backup would include stuff outside the main Settings app?
Like the "one hand operation+" module from Good Lock 2018,
or the quicksettings icons on the statusbar pulldown,
the live wallpaper I downloaded,
or even the Gallery settings,
the S-Pen command center shortcuts etc..
And yes I use Nova Launcher, do you know if the backup includes all customized app icons? i.e. I changed the icons on several apps choosing from a couple of different icon packs.
It is no problem if you can't answer, I am asking out of curiosity only. Because for me it sounds rather complex for the backups to restore all these sort of things. If you have the time then please, by all means.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I switch phones...a lot. Getting ready to do it again today. Finally getting my 512GB Note 9 in the mail today.
I just use Samsung backup. It's not perfect, but between it and Google backup for settings it comes close.
I don't use Nova, I use the Samsung stock launcher. But restoring from Samsung Cloud backup, or from a Smart Switch back up on your SD card if you did one, will restore all your apps and your launcher settings (widgets, folders, icon sort order, etc). It will restore user data for some apps, but not all, so you'll need to set some of those back up. Luckily, once you log back into Samsung Pass, most of your apps will use it to log in again. And many of my apps automatically login with Google Smartlock, or whatever it's called.
What frustrates me, is it does not restore the data for edge panels. So I have to move the handle back to where I want it, set it's transparency, etc. Then I have to set up the icon shortcuts and my contact short cuts.
Then it also loses all the Quick Access icons in the Samsung Browser, so I have to deletr the useless stock ones and go back to all the websites I like to have in the Quick Access panel and add them again.
Same thing with the quick settings in the pulldown shade. It doesn't restore your custom order or grid size.
If someone can come up with a way to backup and restore those settings it would be nearly perfect. There's a few things Iin settings, such as ringtone and display settings that don't get restored, but those are no big deal.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not sure he ever said he has the N960U. It's possible he has a 9600 or an Exynos...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
check thread title.
---------- Post added at 10:56 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:51 PM ----------
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not sure he ever said he has the N960U. It's possible he has a 9600 or an Exynos model. Unless I missed something?
I switch phones...a lot. Getting ready to do it again today. Finally getting my 512GB Note 9 in the mail today.
I just use Samsung backup. It's not perfect, but between it and Google backup for settings it comes close.
I don't use Nova, I use the Samsung stock launcher. But restoring from Samsung Cloud backup, or from a Smart Switch back up on your SD card if you did one, will restore all your apps and your launcher settings (widgets, folders, icon sort order, etc). It will restore user data for some apps, but not all, so you'll need to set some of those back up. Luckily, once you log back into Samsung Pass, most of your apps will use it to log in again. And many of my apps automatically login with Google Smartlock, or whatever it's called.
What frustrates me, is it does not restore the data for edge panels. So I have to move the handle back to where I want it, set it's transparency, etc. Then I have to set up the icon shortcuts and my contact short cuts.
Then it also loses all the Quick Access icons in the Samsung Browser, so I have to deletr the useless stock ones and go back to all the websites I like to have in the Quick Access panel and add them again.
Same thing with the quick settings in the pulldown shade. It doesn't restore your custom order or grid size.
If someone can come up with a way to backup and restore those settings it would be nearly perfect. There's a few things Iin settings, such as ringtone and display settings that don't get restored, but those are no big deal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you root, there is a special twrp addon that you can flash that will even include internal storage data!
Tipatch 《《《
bober10113 said:
check thread title.
---------- Post added at 10:56 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:51 PM ----------
if you root, there is a special twrp addon that you can flash that will even include internal storage data!
Tipatch 《《《
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It says Snapdragon. 9600 is a Snapdragon and can be rooted.
As far as me using Tipatch, I have a N960U1. No root for me. Nor would I want to root.
Mr. Orange 645 said:
It says Snapdragon. 9600 is a Snapdragon and can be rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And i DID say:
"unless you have the sd 9600,"
bober10113 said:
And i DID say:
"unless you have the sd 9600,"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It just came across as rude. You chastised him for "thoughts of grandeur," before you even knew what phone he had for sure. I was just pointing out he could have the 9600. Stop taking things so personal.
bober10113 said:
you cant root for obvious reasons. unless you have the sd 9600, (...) before having thoughts of grandeur.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mr. Orange 645 said:
Not sure he ever said he has the N960U
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bober10113 said:
check thread title
if you root, there is a special twrp addon that you can flash that will even include internal storage data!
Tipatch 《《《
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mr. Orange 645 said:
It says Snapdragon. 9600 is a Snapdragon and can be rooted.
As far as me using Tipatch, I have a N960U1. No root for me. Nor would I want to root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it is a 9600, maybe it is from Hong Kong I guess. I got it from a secondhand store.
So it can be rooted.
By the way, I don't consider simply backing up a cellphone's status as "thoughts of grandeur" but to each their own. I was just thinking about something convenient and most importantly, simple to do.
If the backup/restore process takes more time than re-setting everything up if I need to, it is pointless in the end.
Gonna check Tipatch.
Thanks for all the help guys!
I recall making a backup of entire rom (data included) in early 2010s with my Sony Xperia Z/Z1, but I think you need root to be able to do that. Research Odin, but you definitely need a rooted device to use it.

Titanium Backup alternatives for non-rooted devices

I hope this is the correct section for this discussion, sorry if not.
So I am used to rooting my devices and was unhappy to find out the US Galaxy devices have a locked bootloader. That said, what is everyone using as an alternative to Titanum backup/restore application? Samsung Switch, ADB process, etc.?
I've used My Backup, it's serviceable given that we don't have root. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.rerware.android.MyBackup
johnnyutah22 said:
I've used My Backup, it's serviceable given that we don't have root. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.rerware.android.MyBackup
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will take a look at this one, thank you!
On a side note, do you know if there are any developers actively working on a way to unlock the "U" variant bootloaders? Would like to support anyone who is. I am just happy there is Adhell 3 for us non-rooted folks and having the ability to disable bloatware or completely remove by flashing U1 which I have. Hate all that carrier crap installed. Missing the freedom I had with my OnePlus.
kendzlic said:
Will take a look at this one, thank you!
On a side note, do you know if there are any developers actively working on a way to unlock the "U" variant bootloaders? Would like to support anyone who is. I am just happy there is Adhell 3 for us non-rooted folks and having the ability to disable bloatware or completely remove by flashing U1 which I have. Hate all that carrier crap installed. Missing the freedom I had with my OnePlus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately no. The US variants have been locked down pretty tight since the S7. There have been some limited work arounds like Safe Strap and one time when someone released an engineering key or something. They have also incorporated another level of security according to the developer of Magisk.
johnnyutah22 said:
Unfortunately no. The US variants have been locked down pretty tight since the S7. There have been some limited work arounds like Safe Strap and one time when someone released an engineering key or something. They have also incorporated another level of security according to the developer of Magisk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Disappointing for sure. I followed John Wu closely over the last few weeks and saw that extra layer of security as well. While I like Samsung devices this may be my last one. I'm part of the crowd that believes a phone we purchase should be "our" phone to do with it as we please. Ah well, lesson learned. Appreciate the response.
Any way to backup app data without root?
destz0r said:
Any way to backup app data without root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Based on my own research, I don't believe so.
15 alternative tinatium backup alternative.tips/titanium-backup-alternatives-7905
Helium is able to backup (some) app data without root.
No real alternatives to Titanium backup really. Google is to blame to not provide a backup option for Android.
SMS backup and restore is all you can use to backup messages and then Google backup to backup apps. Samsung Smart switch is another option to move apps(without data) between devices.
kendzlic said:
I hope this is the correct section for this discussion, sorry if not.
So I am used to rooting my devices and was unhappy to find out the US Galaxy devices have a locked bootloader. That said, what is everyone using as an alternative to Titanum backup/restore application? Samsung Switch, ADB process, etc.?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You might wanna try "Swift Backup". Includes phone calls, messages, and apps :good:
I haven't used this, but under accounts, Samsung account there are some backup and restore settings. It says that it would backup apps and their settings.
May be try this.
Helium is for non rooted devices.
Swift backup will not restore app with their data. So it's waste for non root devices.
Titanium Backup (root needed) - Apps on Google Play
EXTREMELY powerful tool. Backup ALL apps, Market links, remove bloatware & MORE!
play.google.com
[APP][8.0+] [OPEN SOURCE] [ROOT] Neo Backup - Apps and data backup tool for Android.
Neo Backup (formerly OAndBackupX) is a fork of the famous OAndBackup with the aim to bring OAndBackup to 202X and part of Neo Applications suite. For now the app is already fully rewritten, coming up would be making it robust and adding some...
forum.xda-developers.com
Swift Backup - Apps on Google Play
A simple, fast and smart backup solution for Android smartphones
play.google.com
Alpha Backup - Apps on Google Play
The most powerful backup & application management tool for android devices.
play.google.com
DO NOT use Titanium Backup even if you have root. I used to use it, but it's lost all support and hasn't been updated in a long while. It will say it backed things up, but it won't work. It doesn't support multi-part apk's which are very common now, anything with a multi-part apk will be screwed. I had a pro version too, kinda sucks.
I tried a lot of others and ended up going with SwiftBackup, it's worked really well and will sync cloud backups.
phazei said:
DO NOT use Titanium Backup even if you have root. I used to use it, but it's lost all support and hasn't been updated in a long while. It will say it backed things up, but it won't work. It doesn't support multi-part apk's which are very common now, anything with a multi-part apk will be screwed. I had a pro version too, kinda sucks.
I tried a lot of others and ended up going with SwiftBackup, it's worked really well and will sync cloud backups.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What does it matter?
TITANIUM BACKUP IS WORKING PERFECTLY IF YOU WANT TO BACKUP DATA OR APK (not splitted).
Titanium Backup lost support for apks (splitted apk) but ALL REST IS WORKING PERFECTLY.
I AM USING TITANIUM BACKUP ON ALL ANDROID VERSIONS, I AM ON ANDROID 11 RIGHT NOW AND I CAN BACKUP AND RESTORE EVERYTHING I WANT USING TITANIUM BACKUP.
VD171 said:
What does it matter?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because it doesn't inform you if something is a split APK, it just says it backs up but when you try to restore, it fails. No way to know which APK's are split or not. So you'd have to test restore every single app one at a time to figure it out. If you batch restore and one split APK is in the middle, it will freeze and won't be able to go past it, and you won't know which it was, so you'll need to test one at a time. I used TI for years and this problem royally F'd me when it happened. It hasn't been updated since 2019, the DEV is MIA, so it's not worth bothering with even. SwiftBackup does almost everything TI could. TI had some cool advanced features, but it's now unreliable so shouldn't be trusted with backups.
phazei said:
Because it doesn't inform you if something is a split APK, it just says it backs up but when you try to restore, it fails. No way to know which APK's are split or not. So you'd have to test restore every single app one at a time to figure it out. If you batch restore and one split APK is in the middle, it will freeze and won't be able to go past it, and you won't know which it was, so you'll need to test one at a time. I used TI for years and this problem royally F'd me when it happened. It hasn't been updated since 2019, the DEV is MIA, so it's not worth bothering with even. SwiftBackup does almost everything TI could. TI had some cool advanced features, but it's now unreliable so shouldn't be trusted with backups.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I said, Titanium Backup keeps making its work well on Android 11 and can be totally trusted.

Best way to back up non root

I have plans to go back to a locked bootloader once Android 12 is final. I have an older Pixel 2 XL and I was wondering if it would be possible to copy all apps data and settings to the older pixel then restore them back to the 5 after the bootloader relocking. I was originally going to do the adb backup to a PC but read that some apps like Google Authenticator don't backup via adb. I am trying to figure out the best way to backup prior to relocking.
Thanks!
alershka said:
I have plans to go back to a locked bootloader once Android 12 is final. I have an older Pixel 2 XL and I was wondering if it would be possible to copy all apps data and settings to the older pixel then restore them back to the 5 after the bootloader relocking. I was originally going to do the adb backup to a PC but read that some apps like Google Authenticator don't backup via adb. I am trying to figure out the best way to backup prior to relocking.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It depends on what type of app data you're talking about. Saved games, forget it without root. Most logins will not be saved either unless you have them saved with Google login. Try it with a couple of apps and see what happens. As for Google authenticator you can install a copy on another device with the new version. Then once you wipe the P5 you can once again transfer the app and data to the P5 from the 2XL.
I would start here.
-----------------
Why Google Authenticator? Are you trying to keep everything Google, or? Pure curiosity.
When I started using 2 factor a few years back I found it (Google Auth) to be extremely limited,,, and I don't see any updates to it to make me change to it.
Limited password protection, no encrypted backups for one thing,
I don't like Authy either, which seems to be #1, sans its terrible UI (IMO) and I find their multi-device support, just a bad idea, security-wise. What it does have going for it, is a desktop app, but I actually prefer my phone, which is with me umm, 99.999999% of my life.
So, what do I suggest? 2FAS. Its 4.7 star rating is highly deserved. What I do, is use its integrated Google drive sync backup (which can be considered not great for security, so in that case, don't use it (same to be said of Authys multi-device too), but I like it and when you're logged into your Google Account, log into 2FAS and all your tokens are back, HOWEVER, here comes oh the oh sh!t moment. How exactly are you to log into your Google account without having your 2FAS code for Google, because you need to be logged into yor account to get the codes, lol. Well what I do is keep an Encrypted backup on a flash drive, and my Samsung backup drive, as you NEVER know., and it's a good habit. To make things easier however I keep 2FAS logged on my old phone, that isn't really used at all, but in a pinch it's a good method to use.
-----------------
As I don't have much of any idea on the backups, but am interested, so I wish you well. And I would do as @bobby janow suggested. You have a solid number of great apps to try for this, as well. I will firstly suggest Flar2's new AppDash App. He actually also, though I do believe I read he doesn't know much about this, but it has a wonderful backup integration built into it, and can be used without root, which will limit things, but it's a fresh new app, and he may even update based on your experiments, just a thought. Next it Titanium backup I think? I actually never used the app. And then this XAPKS App, which seems to have a backup section much like the one in AppDash, but AppDash, you will probably get much better support for. Also I've read GREAT praises for Swift backup App.
Please keep us updated on what you decide to do, as it will only help others. And, best of luck to you on this, as it's an interesting idea.
I used to do something similar with TWRP.
And a side question, either of you know if our TWRP recovery backup works?
@andybones I used TWRP so many times over the years. And Titanium backup was the teets. That would backup everything, data, passwords, apps galore. But I believe both of those require root which the OP wants to get around. I'm not sure what happened to TWRP development since I haven't rooted in years but I do kind of keep up now and again. I don't know if it still works like it used to, which means it's time for me to visit the Roms, Kernels, and recoveries forum. ;-)
Yes, Google authenticator is minimalist for sure. But it's really easy to use and does work but I will look into 2FAS, thanks for the link. I tried a few of the backup apps when I unrooted way back when and none worked well without root. But I'm sure a lot has changed. I'd be curious to see when the OP comes up with too. On a side note I really hope the P6 is not too large looking. haha. I'd so love to stick with Android. Should be soon when we know. One last thing on backup, I always do a backup of my text and phone calls with SMS backup and restore SMS even though transfer to a new device usually does the trick. But once I lost a bunch of stuff due to user error in the upgrade.
bobby janow said:
@andybones I used TWRP so many times over the years. And Titanium backup was the teets. That would backup everything, data, passwords, apps galore. But I believe both of those require root which the OP wants to get around. I'm not sure what happened to TWRP development since I haven't rooted in years but I do kind of keep up now and again. I don't know if it still works like it used to, which means it's time for me to visit the Roms, Kernels, and recoveries forum. ;-)
Yes, Google authenticator is minimalist for sure. But it's really easy to use and does work but I will look into 2FAS, thanks for the link. I tried a few of the backup apps when I unrooted way back when and none worked well without root. But I'm sure a lot has changed. I'd be curious to see when the OP comes up with too. On a side note I really hope the P6 is not too large looking. haha. I'd so love to stick with Android. Should be soon when we know. One last thing on backup, I always do a backup of my text and phone calls with SMS backup and restore SMS even though transfer to a new device usually does the trick. But once I lost a bunch of stuff due to user error in the upgrade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I LOVE TWRP, such an amazing recovery. I remember when first switching over to it. I always heard such raving reviews about TiBackup, I just never needed it, or maybe I found other alternatives, most likely due to habit. I think I've rooted every single device I've owned of Android since the first HTC Eris, wild ride. I think Encryption and A11 in general is causing slow downs, only guessing however, I believe A10 is rocking. There are a cpl dope ROMs for the P5, and they use a custom limited recovery from my small understanding (It's still new to me that recovery is tied to the boot.img), but also I've read the use of web flash tool, like you can with Google, which is freaking awesome! It's interesting to me to be flashing a ROM to my phone from my PC. I wonder what the fallbacks are on this method though for frozen PC or reboots, ETC.
And, thinking of it, there isn't anything wrong with a minimalist App such as Google Auth, but very welcome for the link, I hope you give 2FAS a try and interested in your thoughts.
It certainly is a different experience of Android without root. Ads & limitations. but still a good experience. It's also strange being rooted on pure stock like I am. It's a nice experience, tbh. A different one than I'm used to, but still really nice.
SMS Backup & Restore, too dope! This was an absolute must for me. I use Signal now, so I need to rely on their backup and restore, as they encrypt them. But it works well, if all goes to h#ll you usually will have a backup within the past couple of days which isn't bad.
And that P6 bro, I'm itching to hold it and see if I can be able to use it. I hope so. This is my first Pixel and I enjoy the experience.
I really miss being able to run and restore nandroids.
I guess I have used google authenticator out of convenience. I also have a Google Titan key which is my primary account recovery tool.
Bobby Janow and Andybones have learned me so much. Shout out to both of you.
michaelbsheldon said:
Bobby Janow and Andybones have learned me so much. Shout out to both of you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much, and you're so welcome. I know my posts can get long at times. But, the way I see it, I'd rather give MORE information in my initial posts but also hopefully answered your question(s), which will save a post of you asking for more details. This has been an annoyance at times over the years where someone may not give exact Modification naming and version causing myself or others users seeking more needed information that I feel should be standard.
If you're signed into your Google account on your phone, most of your apps and settings should be backed up there. You'll need to ensure your pictures and user data are otherwise backed up though.
Why relock?
mrsiri said:
Why relock?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Banking.
I see. Be careful when relocking, double check if everything is correctly flashed to stock otherwise you could have big problems to unlock bootloader again if needed.
bobby janow said:
Banking.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
alershka said:
I have plans to go back to a locked bootloader once Android 12 is final. I have an older Pixel 2 XL and I was wondering if it would be possible to copy all apps data and settings to the older pixel then restore them back to the 5 after the bootloader relocking. I was originally going to do the adb backup to a PC but read that some apps like Google Authenticator don't backup via adb. I am trying to figure out the best way to backup prior to relocking.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use Titanium Backup to backup all app data. It needs root. Then just copy paste all backup files to your other phone and restore them.
mrsiri said:
I see. Be careful when relocking, double check if everything is correctly flashed to stock otherwise you could have big problems to unlock bootloader again if needed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree. Full, unadulterated stock, latest image. Then and only then..
It looks like the final version of 12 will be out in a few weeks. I have moved all of my Authentication tokens from Google Authenticator to 2FAS. I only had seven accounts to move so it wasn't horrible. As I mentioned, I still have the Titan key as my primary 2FA for my main Google Account so I should be good to get the phone back up after the relock.
I am am on the latest beta for Android 12 and plan to do the following when the final Android 12 files are available.
Full backup of phone and sdcard using adb
Install Factory Image with Wipe
Relock bootloader
restore adb backup

Categories

Resources