Database Develop

Rooting .290 JB 4.3

Hello,
Coming from a Galaxy S2 flashing and rooting is not new to me but for me there are some questions for the Xperia Z1.
When i bought the Z1 it was on 4.2.2, and offcourse i wanted root the same day
After trying numerous times with Vroot i gave up.
After some more reading i read that i had to downgrade and then flash an older version, then root and flash teh correct version and so on.....(cant find the correct topics anymore )
After doing that my phone wasnt working properly and i connected with PC Companion and it gave me the update to .290 JB 4.3 and everything was fine except foor root.
Did some more reading and found the solution,
Now I'm reading that if you are on .290 4.3JB that root isnt possible(correct me if im wrong).
I want to share how i did it because for me it went very easy.The hardest part was getting the drivers installed correctly hhaha
First i unlocked the bootloader and then i flashed a CWM with root and recovery.
I followed the steps provided on this links.
http://techbeasts.com/2013/12/18/how-to-unlock-bootloader-of-sony-xperia-devices-guide/
http://techbeasts.com/2013/12/19/in...ng-latest-14-2-0-a-290-firmware-how-to-guide/
Al of this went so easy that i'm startin to wonder if its me who did it wrong and dont understand it or if you didnt know about it,
The only thing i forgot was a TA backup :angel:
to MODS....if its in the wrong section please replace it.

Actually it is the official way. Unlock -> CWM -> Root with CWM (Notification)
Rooting 4.3 isn't impossible, but morr difficult than on earlier versions. Google wanted to improve the security of android. Most of the ways which "make" the opportunity of rooting are malware-ways too.
You don't need to backup your TA partition with .290 and above, because the camera will work after the BL unlock.

The big question is if root for unlocked boot loaders will ever be available for 4.3! I really doubt it.
Sent from my C6903 using xda app-developers app

You mean Locked Bootloader, i think?
Question about CWM, does it function the same as it did with my S2? So, back-up and restore with CWM?
sent from rooted en unlocked 4.3 Jb Xperia Z1

djg269 said:
Question about CWM, does it function the same as it did with my S2? So, back-up and restore with CWM?
sent from rooted en unlocked 4.3 Jb Xperia Z1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it should, why are u asking ?

Curious
Eager to try but not in the mood for a complete do over if it fails
sent from rooted en unlocked 4.3 Jb Xperia Z1

Ohh, I will be glad to rooting without unlocking BL...on 4.3..but still no way...

This works just fine, thanks for sharing this! Just FYI, this is also an interesting read about getting full root access on 4.3: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2573921

eclyptos said:
Ohh, I will be glad to rooting without unlocking BL...on 4.3..but still no way...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have heard from @shem2409 that a partial root on LB for 290 (4.3) is possible, but I have not figured out how to do it yet. I think you can pull it off with the insecure ramdisk hack, but to install that, you need to install XZDualRecovery; to install XZDR, you need to be rooted; it's only possible to root 534 LB and when upgrading to 290 root is lost. So, it seems to be a chicken-and-egg problem to me at the moment. I think I must be missing something.

xasbo said:
I have heard from @shem2409 that a partial root on LB for 290 (4.3) is possible, but I have not figured out how to do it yet. I think you can pull it off with the insecure ramdisk hack, but to install that, you need to install XZDualRecovery; to install XZDR, you need to be rooted; it's only possible to root 534 LB and when upgrading to 290 root is lost. So, it seems to be a chicken-and-egg problem to me at the moment. I think I must be missing something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's why I do not rooted mine phone yet. Partial root is not worth to do, full root is what we really need but still under testing and also Unlocked Bootloader is needed. Unlock bootloader we lose the DRM keys which we need if one day we want go back to stock and not lose warranty but to do that we have to Buckup TA. To Backup TA we need root, but I updated to 4.3 and I can't. It's to early to fully rooting 4.3. We have to wait. Developers are working on that and I hope a full root come without unlock bootloader. I hope so.

eclyptos said:
That's why I do not rooted mine phone yet. Partial root is not worth to do, full root is what we really need but still under testing and also Unlocked Bootloader is needed. Unlock bootloader we lose the DRM keys which we need if one day we want go back to stock and not lose warranty but to do that we have to Buckup TA. To Backup TA we need root, but I updated to 4.3 and I can't. It's to early to fully rooting 4.3. We have to wait. Developers are working on that and I hope a full root come without unlock bootloader. I hope so.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to backup TA now, you can - flash back to any 534 FTF, root, make your backup, then upgrade back to 290.

xasbo said:
If you want to backup TA now, you can - flash back to any 534 FTF, root, make your backup, then upgrade back to 290.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I don't want to do. Unlocking Bootloader on 4.3 will also compromise few features like Bionz and X-Reality. I don't think I really need them but for me will be good enough to have Full Root with Locked Bootlader and Apps to SD. I don't ask to much, so I wait.

eclyptos said:
This is what I don't want to do. Unlocking Bootloader on 4.3 will also compromise few features like Bionz and X-Reality. I don't think I really need them but for me will be good enough to have Full Root with Locked Bootlader and Apps to SD. I don't ask to much, so I wait.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You just took those words from my fingers. The wise way here is waiting and cheering developers to figure out how things work with Z1, 4.3 just came a few weeks ago and (hopefully) we will get 4.4 soon, so for that time you'll have to do that trickery again to keep your phones rooted.

AntiDroid said:
Actually it is the official way. Unlock -> CWM -> Root with CWM (Notification)
Rooting 4.3 isn't impossible, but morr difficult than on earlier versions. Google wanted to improve the security of android. Most of the ways which "make" the opportunity of rooting are malware-ways too.
You don't need to backup your TA partition with .290 and above, because the camera will work after the BL unlock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I mistakenly took the .290 update as well and I'm now looking for a way out. This whole backing up the TA thing worries me because I'm afraid I'll lose those DRM keys and bravia etc..... Are you saying that I will be fine and all the keys will be intact if I follow this guide?
Is it possible to downgrade the firmware instead?
What would you suggest?
Thanks

xasbo said:
I have heard from @shem2409 that a partial root on LB for 290 (4.3) is possible, but I have not figured out how to do it yet. I think you can pull it off with the insecure ramdisk hack, but to install that, you need to install XZDualRecovery; to install XZDR, you need to be rooted; it's only possible to root 534 LB and when upgrading to 290 root is lost. So, it seems to be a chicken-and-egg problem to me at the moment. I think I must be missing something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so here is a little clarification
You need to downgrade to .534, root, install recovery and then flash a prerooted .290 rom from (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2572988) or one of the stock-based custom roms such as monxdified (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2463675) if you want a partially rooted, locked bootloader 4.3 firmware on your Z1. There is an instruction on how to install on locked bootloader in the thread.

Rooting on the newest version of Android 4.3.3 isn't impossible on the Xperia Z1, it just takes you more steps than normal to actually get full root access. I have a locked bootloader as well but I was able to get a rooted version of Android 4.3.3, specifically the iHackers 2.0 ROM running Android 4.3.3 with full root access. Here's how I got full root access on the iHackers 2.0 ROM:
1) Download the .ftf file named C6903 14.1.G.1.534 Global 1277-2880_R4A from the compiled FTF thread at this link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2469191
This is a version of the original Stock Rom that the VROOT program will actually work on when trying to ROOT your phone.
2) Flash the ROM you downloaded using Flashtool (steps on how you can go about doing that should be in the Xperia Z1 General forum.) and now, you're ready to root your phone with it.
3) Download, install and run VROOT to root your phone. Again, more information on how to properly root your phone using VROOT can be found in the Xperia Z1 General forum. For me, I just turned on USB Debugging on my Z1, connected my phone to my computer while VROOT was running and clicked the green button until I got root access. It's extremely easy.
4) With Root Access, now you can download and install Dual Recovery for the Xperia Z1 on your phone.
5) Download the latest iHackers 2.0 ROM from the Xperia Z1 Android Development thread and copy it to your phone. This is hands down, the best ROM for the Xperia Z1 right now in terms of battery life. With the latest 4.3 update, I'm able to get over 2 Days worth of battery life on one charge. Battery life is much better on the new iHackers 2.0 ROM running Android 4.3.
6) Download the flashable Locked Dual Recovery for the Xperia Z1 here. http://nut.xperia-files.com/
The file is called XZ-lockeddualrecovery2.7.63-BETA.flashable.zip (8.48MB), download it and copy it to your phone, preferably the same place you copied the iHackers 2.0 ROM. To make things easier for yourself, create a new folder on your phone or SD Card in your phone and name it iHackers. Copy both the iHackers 2.0 ROM and the flashable Locked Dual Recovery.zip file into this folder.
7) With both files now copied to a folder on your phone, you're now ready to go into recovery to flash the iHackers 2.0 ROM. Boot into recovery and once you're there, do a Wipe Data/Factory Reset before Installing the ROM.
The rest of these steps are now taken directly from the iHackers 2.0 download thread on the Xperia Z1 Android Development forum.
8) Install the ROM and THEN Dual Recovery. Don't make the same mistake I did, once the installer is finished, DON'T REBOOT THE DEVICE. Uncheck the "Reboot Device" box and go back to recovery to install the flashable Dual Recovery.zip file that's in the iHackers 2.0 folder.
9) Switch Off Your Phone (Do Not Reboot). Select No to Disable Flash Recovery Confirmation.
10) Install Kernel.ftf for C6903 (.290) or Kernel.ftf for C6902 (.290) with Flashtool to get compatible Kernel and Baseband. To download the kernel.ftf file, go to the original iHackers 2.0 thread to download and flash the kernel using Flashtool. You should be familiar with Flashtool at this point since if you make it to this step, you've already used Flashtool once to flash the .534 baseband version of Android.
11) Reboot and Enjoy. Now you're running the latest version of Android 4.3 on your Xperia Z1 on a Locked Bootloader WITH full Root Access. Sure, it's not the stock version but the iHackers 2.0 version of Android 4.3 is just as good, if not better. This will certainly do until there's a better way to simply root the newest Stock Version of Android 4.3.
I've been looking into unlocking my bootloader to install custom kernels on my Z1 but the battery life and performance on my Z1 with a locked bootloader is already pretty impressive. I can't imagine how good it could be with a custom kernel.

deli pastrami said:
Are you saying that I will be fine and all the keys will be intact if I follow this guide?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, if you Unlock Bootloader you will lost the DRM keys permanently with Bionz and X-Reality, even with Android 4.3, if you do not do a backup, but the difference from 4.2 is that your phone will still working properly.
deli pastrami said:
Is it possible to downgrade the firmware instead?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes.
deli pastrami said:
What would you suggest?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nobody can suggest what to do. You have to figure out by yourself what you need. It's your own risk.
---------- Post added at 12:11 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:00 AM ----------
x016x said:
Rooting on the newest version ..bla..bla..bla
....bla..bla..bla..bla...king my bootloader to install custom kernels on my Z1 but the battery life and performance on my Z1 with a locked bootloader is already pretty impressive. I can't imagine how good it could be with a custom kernel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanx man. I appreciate the time you took to explain the process step by step. One step very important you forgot to mention, Backup TA, never forget to mention that. Anyway I will check if this actually get me full root and all the stuff and when I finally will lose my patient I will start follow the guide and flashing and burning my Z1.

shem2409 said:
Ok, so here is a little clarification
You need to downgrade to .534, root, install recovery and then flash a prerooted .290 rom from (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2572988) or one of the stock-based custom roms such as monxdified (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2463675) if you want a partially rooted, locked bootloader 4.3 firmware on your Z1. There is an instruction on how to install on locked bootloader in the thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahh, cheers, I thought there was a way to root any arbitrary ROM, that's where I was getting hung up. The pre-rooted options make total sense.
eclyptos said:
Thanx man. I appreciate the time you took to explain the process step by step. One step very important you forgot to mention, Backup TA, never forget to mention that. Anyway I will check if this actually get me full root and all the stuff and when I finally will lose my patient I will start follow the guide and flashing and burning my Z1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The instructions didn't say to unlock the bootloader, which is the only sure-fire way to lose your TA partition. However, I would agree there's no good reason *not* to back it up anyway. Better safe than sorry!

xasbo said:
The instructions didn't say to unlock the bootloader, which is the only sure-fire way to lose your TA partition. However, I would agree there's no good reason *not* to back it up anyway. Better safe than sorry!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahhh, ok, so you are confirming that the guide is incomplete and we have to unlock bootloader anyway if I follow that? Hmmm...I am a bit puzzled.

eclyptos said:
Ahhh, ok, so you are confirming that the guide is incomplete and we have to unlock bootloader anyway if I follow that? Hmmm...I am a bit puzzled.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, no. In his instructions, UB is not necessary because XZDualRecovery can be installed on LB. The reason skipping the TA backup is okay is because the instructions do not unlock the BL.

[Q] C6903 .290 Need help with root, downgrade, TA backup

Alrighty some background info and where I'm at. I've got some dev (Android XML layout fixes) experience on a custom ROM on i9300 and I finally decided to upgrade my phone onto the beasty Xperia Z1.
My phone came factory shipped with .290. It's the C6903 model. I've been looking up videos and trying to find info about where to begin with getting my root, bootloader, cwm, and custom ROM install going. Then I found out about the TA partition and that even though my phone allows me to unlock the bootloader, it's a smart idea to first backup the TA partition before I unlock my bootloader via the $ony website. With the TA backed up I can revert my phone back to stock at some point and restore the TA so that my phone looks basically factory fresh. So I realised that I probably ought to back up my TA in case of any warranty issues. Which means I need to get my phone rooted before anything else. (I hope my assessment has been correct so far, it would be awesome if someone can verify the above paragraph)
Now this is where I am completely confused. I've attempted to use VRoot - and of course it does not support the .290 firmware.
Then I found out that it is possible to downgrade the firmware so that I can root and TA backup before bootloader unlock. This is the knowledge level I am up to. I have no idea which firmware to downgrade to or how to even actually perform a successful downgrade. (I've kinda gotten frustrated at the huge slab of info and I need some specific info from some users more experienced at this than I am at this point..)
I read how some people have flashed down to .534 and others have flashed down to .257. I would like to know exactly what steps I should take and which is the best firmware to downgrade to, just to do a root crack and TA backup. Can you even downgrade firmware without bootloader involved?
Basically the flow of what I need to do right now is this (I think):
1) Downgrade firmware to probably .534 from my current .290 (I need to flash the FTF using Flashtool, correct?)
2) Install Root with VRoot
3) TA Backup (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598&highlight=ta)
4) Upgrade back to .290 (Do I do this via OTA? I hope it is not difficult to do it via some command line tools if it comes to that..)
--- Above step also gets rid of most of Root access provided to the older firmware (this is what I've read.. Is this correct?)
5) Unlock bootloader (must do this in version .290 to avoid the camera bug), via guide on Sony website
6) Go crazy with all the custom things I want to install - CWMRecovery, CM11, etc
7) ???
8) Profit
Can someone please tell me if the above list is the order I need to proceed with?
:good: Thanks for any help you guys can give me. I am truly frustrated by this 290 firmware version! And reading all the topics about people who bricked after attempting similar things without knowing exactly what they needed to do and which order to do it in..
tl;dr - On .290 firmware, I want to backup TA before I unlock bootloader, which firmware version do I downgrade to?

SleepinDevil said:
Alrighty some background info and where I'm at. I've got some dev (Android XML layout fixes) experience on a custom ROM on i9300 and I finally decided to upgrade my phone onto the beasty Xperia Z1.
My phone came factory shipped with .290. It's the C6903 model. I've been looking up videos and trying to find info about where to begin with getting my root, bootloader, cwm, and custom ROM install going. Then I found out about the TA partition and that even though my phone allows me to unlock the bootloader, it's a smart idea to first backup the TA partition before I unlock my bootloader via the $ony website. With the TA backed up I can revert my phone back to stock at some point and restore the TA so that my phone looks basically factory fresh. So I realised that I probably ought to back up my TA in case of any warranty issues. Which means I need to get my phone rooted before anything else. (I hope my assessment has been correct so far, it would be awesome if someone can verify the above paragraph)
Now this is where I am completely confused. I've attempted to use VRoot - and of course it does not support the .290 firmware.
Then I found out that it is possible to downgrade the firmware so that I can root and TA backup before bootloader unlock. This is the knowledge level I am up to. I have no idea which firmware to downgrade to or how to even actually perform a successful downgrade. (I've kinda gotten frustrated at the huge slab of info and I need some specific info from some users more experienced at this than I am at this point..)
I read how some people have flashed down to .534 and others have flashed down to .257. I would like to know exactly what steps I should take and which is the best firmware to downgrade to, just to do a root crack and TA backup. Can you even downgrade firmware without bootloader involved?
Basically the flow of what I need to do right now is this (I think):
1) Downgrade firmware to probably .534 from my current .290 (I need to flash the FTF using Flashtool, correct?)
2) Install Root with VRoot
3) TA Backup (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598&highlight=ta)
4) Upgrade back to .290 (Do I do this via OTA? I hope it is not difficult to do it via some command line tools if it comes to that..)
--- Above step also gets rid of most of Root access provided to the older firmware (this is what I've read.. Is this correct?)
5) Unlock bootloader (must do this in version .290 to avoid the camera bug), via guide on Sony website
6) Go crazy with all the custom things I want to install - CWMRecovery, CM11, etc
7) ???
8) Profit
Can someone please tell me if the above list is the order I need to proceed with?
:good: Thanks for any help you guys can give me. I am truly frustrated by this 290 firmware version! And reading all the topics about people who bricked after attempting similar things without knowing exactly what they needed to do and which order to do it in..
tl;dr - On .290 firmware, I want to backup TA before I unlock bootloader, which firmware version do I downgrade to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you need to downgrade to .534 and root before you can backup your TA
Here is a guide on how to achieve that
If you follow the video guide you will end up with rooted .290
Then backup you TA:
and go to Sony's website to unlock the bootloader. An unlocked bootloader will let you flash custom kernels to your phone and thus you will be able to use roms such as CM, AOSP etc.
NEXT TIME PLEASE READ BEFORE CREATING A NEW THREAD. THIS HAS BEEN COVERED 100's OF TIMES

in general you have to do these steps:
downgrade to an early firmware that can be rooted and root it.
then install dual recovery.
in dual recovery wipe your phone, flash rom, flash again superuser and again dual recovery.
power off phone.
power on and direct flash kernel,baseband, bootbundle. for this i would recommend using NUTs stripped FTF files. also from his site you get recovery and superuser/supersu.
you only loose TA when you unlock your bootloader. unlocking is only neccessary if you plan to flash a custom kernel too.
when you are on rooted firmware backup TA, you never know if you need it later.
a good step by step tutorial is iHackers 2.1 thread.
also be prepared that actually there is a chance to brick your device. many can be restored using Sony Update Service or by flashing a full stock FTF, but some devices need a new mainboard. things are a litte bit tricky at the moment

shem2409 said:
Yes, you need to downgrade to .534 and root before you can backup your TA
Here is a guide on how to achieve that
If you follow the video guide you will end up with rooted .290
Then backup you TA:
and go to Sony's website to unlock the bootloader. An unlocked bootloader will let you flash custom kernels to your phone and thus you will be able to use roms such as CM, AOSP etc.
NEXT TIME PLEASE READ BEFORE CREATING A NEW THREAD. THIS HAS BEEN COVERED 100's OF TIMES
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When on 4.3 and I tried many time still can't downgraded to 534. How to do it? Thank!
Lukily my TA had been backup.
Send from GT-I9506 using Tapatalk
Devices: Samsung GT-I9506 and Sony Z1 C6903

timberwolf60 said:
When on 4.3 and I tried many time still can't downgraded to 534. How to do it? Thank!
Lukily my TA had been backup.
Send from GT-I9506 using Tapatalk
Devices: Samsung GT-I9506 and Sony Z1 C6903
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is a video on how to use flashtool
The previous video that I have sent you shows you step by step how to do everything

Rooting

I have latest official firmware JB 4.3(12.1.A.0.266).
Now i want to root it.
Is there any way.
Thanks

Yes there is. However you need to unlock your bootloader for this.
Tutorial for Bootloader unlocking: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354721
Tutorial for Rooting: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2646193
However for unlocking bootloader you need to create a backup of the TA partition and this requires root.
So there is an loop in this issue.......
What some users do:
- Downgrade back to 4.1.2 (see my tutorial about Flashing with Flashtool)
- Root it
- Backup TA
- Unlock bootloader/Install CWM
- Install custom 4.3 rom with root

Sushrut52 said:
I have latest official firmware JB 4.3(12.1.A.0.266).
Now i want to root it.
Is there any way.
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those who do not want to unlock bootloader are waiting for @DooMLoRD to release an exploit for official firmware JB 4.3(12.1.A.0.266).
I am one of them.

Yes
sourabhp said:
Those who do not want to unlock bootloader are waiting for @DooMLoRD to release an exploit for official firmware JB 4.3(12.1.A.0.266).
I am one of them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am one of them too.
I have rooted earlier via doomlord.

Question
Im not sure if im in the right thread bout this.
Ive tried rooting my Xperia SP using DoomLord procedure i was able to do everything correctly
But when i was in the part for using rooting toolkit there was a message that it cant pust SuperUser.apk and the phone restart after that i wasnt able to find the Super user app
Got USB DEBUGGING ON
Able to flashed the old version before rooting but it was still the same
can you guide me with this or if not Please kindly point me where to ask this question Thanks

[Q] Confusion on TA Partition backup with the latest stock firmware

Hello!
I have searched various places about rooting my SP. I am about to root my SP, it was newly bought (2 months old) so it would be better if the TA Partition is backed up. After inspecting several articles and stuffs, I was advised to back up my TA Partition before attempting to root my phone.
As of 12.1.A.0.266 update, rooting requires unlocking the bootloader. Which doesn't follow the rule to back up the TA Partition. As one may know, a phone must be rooted in order to back up the TA partition but at the same time, such bootloader must not be unlocked
I've searched everywhere I can, however I can't find any solution. Forgive me if there are any articles or thread created regarding the same topic.
Any immediate help would be extremely appreciated.
The phone is running latest stock firmware and had no customisations so far.

TechnoSparks said:
Hello!
I have searched various places about rooting my SP. I am about to root my SP, it was newly bought (2 months old) so it would be better if the TA Partition is backed up. After inspecting several articles and stuffs, I was advised to back up my TA Partition before attempting to root my phone.
As of 12.1.A.0.266 update, rooting requires unlocking the bootloader. Which doesn't follow the rule to back up the TA Partition. As one may know, a phone must be rooted in order to back up the TA partition but at the same time, such bootloader must not be unlocked
I've searched everywhere I can, however I can't find any solution. Forgive me if there are any articles or thread created regarding the same topic.
Any immediate help would be extremely appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Use a pre-rooted rom (PureXSP, eXistenZ)...Not sure if it will work!Don't try unless a person with higher android knowledge skills answers!

How about you just FTF flash an older firmware?

UltraWelfare said:
Use a pre-rooted rom (PureXSP, eXistenZ)...Not sure if it will work!Don't try unless a person with higher android knowledge skills answers!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aaa I am only looking forward to use stock ROMs only at the moment. hm

​
sephirothmk said:
How about you just FTF flash an older firmware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
flashing ftf won't require unlocked bootloader isn't it? I do thought of downgrading then root and then backup such TA partition.

No it wont.
For the Sony features like Bravia Engine etc you need the TA partition. Flashtool will (or should) work without the TA partition. It will only tell you that your bootloader is unlocked

I was in the exactly the same position as you few days ago when I decided to customize my Xperia SP
Here is what I have done...
I was on the latest .266 OTA updated FW and then ... ...
I downloaded and flashed with Flashtool "Xperia SP (C5303)_12.0.A.2.254_Generic_DE.with_loader.sin.ftf"
Then flash XperiaSP_C530X_12.0.A.1.257_KernelOnly.ftf
Now you can use DooMLoRD_Easy-Rooting-Toolkit_v18_perf-event-exploit.zip
and then flash back XperiaSP_C530X_12.0.A.2.254_KernelOnly.ftf for your current FW
Now that you have rooted your phone you can use Backup-TA-9.10 tool to backup your TA partition and save your precious DRM keys
And when you have your TA partition backup safely archived somewhere
you can go to Sony site to request code for unlocking bootloader.
When your bootloader is unlocked use FASTBOOT to flash any kernel that have custom recovery
(like Nayak03 or DoomLord's V05 or DoomLord's advanced STD .266)
and then when you have custom recovery you can install pretty much everything you find around here.
If you need more details or want me to put links to threads and files I've looked and download just say... :cyclops:
greetzz

:thumbup: freedom
Sent from my C5302 using Tapatalk

mrjraider said:
No it wont.
For the Sony features like Bravia Engine etc you need the TA partition. Flashtool will (or should) work without the TA partition. It will only tell you that your bootloader is unlocked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is not about Flashing, it is warranty.. My phone is 2 months old and there are 8 more months for valid warranty.
freedom74 said:
I was in the exactly the same position as you few days ago when I decided to customize my Xperia SP
Here is what I have done...
I was on the latest .266 OTA updated FW and then ... ...
I downloaded and flashed with Flashtool "Xperia SP (C5303)_12.0.A.2.254_Generic_DE.with_loader.sin.ftf"
Then flash XperiaSP_C530X_12.0.A.1.257_KernelOnly.ftf
Now you can use DooMLoRD_Easy-Rooting-Toolkit_v18_perf-event-exploit.zip
and then flash back XperiaSP_C530X_12.0.A.2.254_KernelOnly.ftf for your current FW
Now that you have rooted your phone you can use Backup-TA-9.10 tool to backup your TA partition and save your precious DRM keys
And when you have your TA partition backup safely archived somewhere
you can go to Sony site to request code for unlocking bootloader.
When your bootloader is unlocked use FASTBOOT to flash any kernel that have custom recovery
(like Nayak03 or DoomLord's V05 or DoomLord's advanced STD .266)
and then when you have custom recovery you can install pretty much everything you find around here.
If you need more details or want me to put links to threads and files I've looked and download just say... :cyclops:
greetzz
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wohoo thanks! Yes, I do thought of the same way, however, I am looking forward to use the stock sony .266 FW after rooting the older 254. Any tutorial you can give here or any links I can get on how to actually "install" the .266 firmware?
Yes I do would like some links on downloading those stuff except Flashtool, I did have it already. If you don't mind posting them..
By the way, since I see that .266 FWs have different versions for each region on this world respectively, may I know how to get one that is international or south-east asia specific?

some links that might help you.. (links for downloading stuff in there...)
#Downgrading to 4.1.2 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=50356952&postcount=8)
# rooting 4.1.2 (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2405933), and installing CWM (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2352920 - for LB).
#backing up the TA partition while rooted at 4.1.2
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2292598
#unlocking/relocking BL (if decided to unlock)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354721
#installing/rooting 4.3
1)for UB/LB
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2648538
2)Doomlord method for UB
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2646193
It's wise to read before doing anything..
I went through these steps (without unlocking BL), now rooted with PureXSP (4.3 based) rom..

Naveen004 said:
:thumbup: freedom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, thumb up is on the lower left corner of my post
TechnoSparks said:
By the way, since I see that .266 FWs have different versions for each region on this world respectively, may I know how to get one that is international or south-east asia specific?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can search in http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2658952
And for the links, @mrhnet already goes ahead of me. :good:
This is the thread where I started... http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354704
You just need to go step by step and in right order...
1 downgrade FW to 12.0.A.2.254 (or 245) DOWNLOAD HERE
2 change to rootable kernel 12.0.A.1.257 DOWNLOAD HERE
3 use DoomLords perf_exploit rooting script DOWNLOAD HERE
4 flash back kernel only 12.0.A.2.254 DOWNLOAD HERE
5 start your phone and start TABackup HERE
6 go to Sony site for an unlock code as explained HERE
for which you use Fastboot HERE
7 again with fastboot flash kernel with custom recovery like THIS one DoomKernel AdvStd .266
8 reboot to recovery while presing VOL+ key when lightshow starts and install CustomROM of your choice which you downloaded previously and put it on your microSD card.
OR if you want stock rooted FW
in step 7 first flash official .266 FW then fastboot DoomLords .266 AdvStd kernel
boot to recovery and from it root your system
:silly:

Thank you @mrhnet and @freedom74 !
You guys really solved my questions in a quick manner of time!
I just registered xda just to ask this question and I received a really good help.
I will read both posts and see what I can come up with my SP. I can't wait to root it! Again thank you, guys!
I hope nothing bad happens, this is my only phone and it costs so much
:victory: thanks again!

@TechnoSparks
No problem bro! Good luck with your new phone
This is also my recent phone.. might feel a little faintish at the first bootloop.. but you'll get used to it Won't be any problem if carefully done according to instructions.. [emoji106]
Sent from my C5303 using Tapatalk

mrhnet said:
@TechnoSparks
No problem bro! Good luck with your new phone
This is also my recent phone.. might feel a little faintish at the first bootloop.. but you'll get used to it Won't be any problem if carefully done according to instructions.. [emoji106]
Sent from my C5303 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol I am sorry I am back. I am having difficulties on finding appropriate firmware.
Hey I saw a post saying that it ripped firmwares from the SUS. Do you know how to do this, so that I can have the version right for my country?

TechnoSparks said:
lol I am sorry I am back. I am having difficulties on finding appropriate firmware.
Hey I saw a post saying that it ripped firmwares from the SUS. Do you know how to do this, so that I can have the version right for my country?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check this..
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z/development/noobs-guide-create-stock-firmware-ftf-t2188129
Sent from my C5303 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 11:14 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:05 PM ----------
**A post with some very useful tips for someone wishing to stay close to their regional stock as possible...
-->> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=50429620&postcount=61
(From one of 4.3 rooting threads)
Hope you have some idea how to proceed..
Sent from my C5303 using Tapatalk

freedom74 said:
yes, thumb up is on the lower left corner of my post
You can search in http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2658952
And for the links, @mrhnet already goes ahead of me. :good:
This is the thread where I started... http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2354704
You just need to go step by step and in right order...
1 downgrade FW to 12.0.A.2.254 (or 245) DOWNLOAD HERE
2 change to rootable kernel 12.0.A.1.257 DOWNLOAD HERE
3 use DoomLords perf_exploit rooting script DOWNLOAD HERE
4 flash back kernel only 12.0.A.2.254 DOWNLOAD HERE
5 start your phone and start TABackup HERE
6 go to Sony site for an unlock code as explained HERE
for which you use Fastboot HERE
7 again with fastboot flash kernel with custom recovery like THIS one DoomKernel AdvStd .266
8 reboot to recovery while presing VOL+ key when lightshow starts and install CustomROM of your choice which you downloaded previously and put it on your microSD card.
OR if you want stock rooted FW
in step 7 first flash official .266 FW then fastboot DoomLords .266 AdvStd kernel
boot to recovery and from it root your system
:silly:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
does the UK generic support Arabic language ?

Mostafa Mega said:
does the UK generic support Arabic language ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't know.
I didn't use it.

Mostafa Mega said:
does the UK generic support Arabic language ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can't you have an Arabic version installed via the Sony Update Service?

TechnoSparks said:
Can't you have an Arabic version installed via the Sony Update Service?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am searching coz I wanna downgrade to 4.1 so I can root then backup TA but I can't find the same global generic (which came with the devise)
so am looking for any good Rom support Arabic language

[Q] Question Before i do

My phone still unroot and locked Bootloader and Im made mistake upgrade to latest official stock ROM lollipop 5.1.1 bec im having overheat issues, battery draining and weird popup. then im about want to downgrade to kitkat and flash ftf firmware with root.
1) Do i have to Backup TA before i use flashtool? i think if i do flashtool, i will lose DRM keys like sony features? (for locked bootloader)
2) What meaning by 'pre-root' firmware? (*sorry about this. it look new word to me*)
3) without root phone and unlocked BL, is it possible to use PRFCreator? (link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z1/development/c6943-368-official-lollipop-5-1-1-t3218004)
I made decide not to unlocked bootloader bec i know its risk to lose but i want to keep it simple only.

alienx2 said:
My phone still unroot and locked Bootloader and Im made mistake upgrade to latest official stock ROM lollipop 5.1.1 bec im having overheat issues, battery draining and weird popup. then im about want to downgrade to kitkat and flash ftf firmware with root.
1) Do i have to Backup TA before i use flashtool? i think if i do flashtool, i will lose DRM keys like sony features? (for locked bootloader)
2) What meaning by 'pre-root' firmware? (*sorry about this. it look new word to me*)
3) without root phone and unlocked BL, is it possible to use PRFCreator? (link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z1/development/c6943-368-official-lollipop-5-1-1-t3218004)
I made decide not to unlocked bootloader bec i know its risk to lose but i want to keep it simple only.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1]
you only need to backup your ta partition if you plan to unlock your bootloader. By Unlocking your bootloader you will lose your DRM keys. Anyways having a backup of your ta portion isn't nothing bad.
Using flashtool and flashing a stock firmware will not unlock your bootloader.
2]
A stock firmware comes unrooted. Pre rooted means that the firmware comes with root integrated.
3]
PRF Creator is a Programm you use under windows
4]
You have to understand what a ftf file and a flushable zip means.
Ftf files are flashed with flashtool.
Flushable zip files need a custom recovery to flash. For example twrp or cwm or philz recovery. To get a custom recovery on your phone your phone has to be rooted.

motorazrv3 said:
1]
you only need to backup your ta partition if you plan to unlock your bootloader. By Unlocking your bootloader you will lose your DRM keys. Anyways having a backup of your ta portion isn't nothing bad.
Using flashtool and flashing a stock firmware will not unlock your bootloader.
2]
A stock firmware comes unrooted. Pre rooted means that the firmware comes with root integrated.
3]
PRF Creator is a Programm you use under windows
4]
You have to understand what a ftf file and a flushable zip means.
Ftf files are flashed with flashtool.
Flushable zip files need a custom recovery to flash. For example twrp or cwm or philz recovery. To get a custom recovery on your phone your phone has to be rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) If i flash custom firmware will not touch bootloader? (im planning to install custom rom from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2716182) but their instruction said "for Locked bootloader only: Backup TA Partition"? does this mean will unlock bootloader? (**im confuse**).
3) Yeah run on windows only but is it possible to use it without root phone and unlocked BL ?

alienx2 said:
1) If i flash custom firmware will not touch bootloader? (im planning to install custom rom from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2716182) but their instruction said "for Locked bootloader only: Backup TA Partition"? does this mean will unlock bootloader? (**im confuse**).
3) Yeah run on windows only but is it possible to use it without root phone and unlocked BL ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes, you need to unlock the Bootloader.
2. You can use Flashtool to flash STOCK FTF on your phone.
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Free mobile app

Deathschythe33 said:
1. Yes, you need to unlock the Bootloader.
2. You can use Flashtool to flash STOCK FTF on your phone.
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) iHackers v6.2 rom will unlock your bootloader?
2) i mean PRFCreator?

alienx2 said:
1) If i flash custom firmware will not touch bootloader? (im planning to install custom rom from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2716182) but their instruction said "for Locked bootloader only: Backup TA Partition"? does this mean will unlock bootloader? (**im confuse**).
3) Yeah run on windows only but is it possible to use it without root phone and unlocked BL ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
3]
PRF Creator is a stand alone Programm that doesn't require a phone.
It only needs files as input and the result is a flashable zip you must flash with a custom recovery
---------- Post added at 01:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:40 PM ----------
alienx2 said:
1) iHackers v6.2 rom will unlock your bootloader?
2) i mean PRFCreator?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1]
No.
This zip will launch a program called aroma installer. With this program you will be asked what you want to install.
For example the description of iHackers rom says that you have to choose between stock or custom kernel.
3]
To flash a custom rom or custom bootloader you must unlock your bootloader first. If not you can't flash anything custom.
You can unlock your bootloader with flashtool. For that you need the unlock key for your bootloader. You do this in fastboot mode with the help a flashtool.
Flashing a ftf the phone is in flashmode.
Fastboot mode and flash mode are two different states you can put your phone at.

motorazrv3 said:
3]
PRF Creator is a stand alone Programm that doesn't require a phone.
It only needs files as input and the result is a flashable zip you must flash with a custom recovery
---------- Post added at 01:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:40 PM ----------
1]
No.
This zip will launch a program called aroma installer. With this program you will be asked what you want to install.
For example the description of iHackers rom says that you have to choose between stock or custom kernel.
3]
To flash a custom rom or custom bootloader you must unlock your bootloader first. If not you can't flash anything custom.
You can unlock your bootloader with flashtool. For that you need the unlock key for your bootloader. You do this in fastboot mode with the help a flashtool.
Flashing a ftf the phone is in flashmode.
Fastboot mode and flash mode are two different states you can put your phone at.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What if i want ihackers 6.2 rom Aroma edition on my phone (locked BL)? then can be? I prefer untouched bootloader and stock kernel on my phone.

alienx2 said:
What if i want ihackers 6.2 rom Aroma edition on my phone (locked BL)? then can be? I prefer untouched bootloader and stock kernel on my phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure. As far as I understand yes if you choose locked bootloader.
Maybe some other member can help here too.
But to flash the zip you need a custom recovery. For a custom recovery you need root to install it.
Post #4 at ihackers rom Threads mentions the step to flash the rom on a phone with locked bootloader. Not that easy!

Answer is Yes. I've already tried iHackers ROM on my Z1 w/ locked bootloader. I don't want to be rude or anything but all your questions are answerable by going through some basic reading materials that are all available in XDA. I strongly recommend you do your reading first. We don't want you coming back at us saying you now have an expensive paper weight, or that you have lost some important audio, video, image, SMS, MMS, Contact, etc. on your phone. It would really help alot if you read the iHackers ROM thread as well.
You did state on your initial post that you want to keep things simple. Then I suggest rooting your phone, get rid of the apps you won't ever use and just keep it stock.

motorazrv3 said:
I am not sure. As far as I understand yes if you choose locked bootloader.
Maybe some other member can help here too.
But to flash the zip you need a custom recovery. For a custom recovery you need root to install it.
Post #4 at ihackers rom Threads mentions the step to flash the rom on a phone with locked bootloader. Not that easy!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks i understand now.
Deathschythe33 said:
Answer is Yes. I've already tried iHackers ROM on my Z1 w/ locked bootloader. I don't want to be rude or anything but all your questions are answerable by going through some basic reading materials that are all available in XDA. I strongly recommend you do your reading first. We don't want you coming back at us saying you now have an expensive paper weight, or that you have lost some important audio, video, image, SMS, MMS, Contact, etc. on your phone. It would really help alot if you read the iHackers ROM thread as well.
You did state on your initial post that you want to keep things simple. Then I suggest rooting your phone, get rid of the apps you won't ever use and just keep it stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I already research alot and i was making sure if its safe with locked bootloader. but now i will follow their instruction of iHackers ROM. Before i do, I'm prepare to backup. =)

alienx2 said:
Thanks i understand now.
Thanks. I already research alot and i was making sure if its safe with locked bootloader. but now i will follow their instruction of iHackers ROM. Before i do, I'm prepare to backup. =)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool.
alienx2 said:
My phone still unroot and locked Bootloader and Im made mistake upgrade to latest official stock ROM lollipop 5.1.1 bec im having overheat issues, battery draining and weird popup. then im about want to downgrade to kitkat and flash ftf firmware with root.
1) Do i have to Backup TA before i use flashtool? i think if i do flashtool, i will lose DRM keys like sony features? (for locked bootloader)
2) What meaning by 'pre-root' firmware? (*sorry about this. it look new word to me*)
3) without root phone and unlocked BL, is it possible to use PRFCreator? (link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z1/development/c6943-368-official-lollipop-5-1-1-t3218004)
I made decide not to unlocked bootloader bec i know its risk to lose but i want to keep it simple only.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just want to answer this and sum it all up.
Do i have to Backup TA before i use flashtool? i think if i do flashtool No, you don't need to Backup your TA partition to use Flashtool. Flashtool works for both locked & unlocked bootloaders.
i will lose DRM keys like sony features? (for locked bootloader) I'll treat this as a separate question. Yes when you unlock your bootloader you will loose your DRM keys, which is why you need to backup your TA partition first before you unlock your bootloader. But as I mentioned earlier - No, you don't need to backup your TA partition if you will not unlock your bootlader. And -No, it is not needed to be able to use flashtool.
What meaning by 'pre-root' firmware? It means it is a stock Firmware that has root access. It is basically your stock firmware that was ran through PFRCreator.
without root phone and unlocked BL, is it possible to use PRFCreator? It's basically like this... NOTE: This is a not-so-details procedure but it will give you an idea on what the PRFCreator is. So the answer is Yes, it is possible to use PRFCreator with a locked bootloader but you need to have a rooted phone with a custom recovery so you can flash the pre-rooted 5.1.1 *.zip file you made, then flash the 5.1.1 FTF using Flashtool
1. Install flashtool
2. Download a 5.1.1 FTF using XperiFirm (it's an icon in Flashtool that opens a FTF downloader that automatically unpacks and makes you a FTF that you can flash on your phone)
3. Download PFRCreator
4. Using PRFCreator you basically create your very own pre-rooted 5.1.1
5. Now you have Two(2) files - the flashable *.ZIP file (the file generated by PRFCreator) and the 5.1.1 FTF you have downloaded earlier
6. You will need to root your phone and install a custom recovery partition on your phone so you can flash the *.zip file you have created using PRFCreator, then flash the 5.1.1 FTF using flashtool
7.