[Q] help with Moto x! - Moto X Q&A

i really need help trying to figure how to root my AT&T Motorola Moto x. i tried to downgrade but couldnt succeed and i tried unlocking bootloader as well and couldnt succeed either. if anyone can help me please reply! thank you.

Sorry for the long answer, but I think you're going to need this info....
The Moto Maker and Retail Moto X from ATT and Verizon have locked bootloaders and can't have their bootloaders unlocked. Moto doesn't give out the bootloader unlock codes for them. There was a Chinese site selling the codes but it got shut down.
Since you couldn't downgrade successfully, I'm going to guess that you have 4.4.2 on your phone?
Due to changes in the bootloader, GPT.BIN and other parts included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2!! i.e. do NOT attempt to downgrade from 4.4.2 to anything lower.
I don't know what state your phone is in now, but if you had 4.4.2 on your phone, and you tried to downgrade, but didn't brick, do NOT take any OTA's!!! That will definitely brick your phone. For now, you'll likely get HAB Check errors, and other things if you try to reboot into bootloader or recovery. If you try to go under Settings -> Security you likely be "kicked back" to the settings screen instead. If you are experiencing these or similar issues, when the ATT 4.4.2 SBF gets leaked and posted to -> http://sbf.droid-developers.org/phone.php?device=0 you'll want to download it and flash your phone with it to get back to a stable/consistent foundation.
As for rooting the X with a locked bootloader... (like the ATT Moto X, or non-Developer Verizon X)
If you want usable root on the X you need two parts 1. Root Exploit, and 2. An Exploit that allows for disabling Write Protection.
When Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on.
Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
MotoWpNoMo was used on 4.4. and below to Disable Write Protection. Part of the 4.4.2 update patches the exploit that MotoWpNoMo used, so it wont work on 4.4.2.
SlapMyMoto/RockMyMoto/etc, used on 4.4 and lower to Root, involved downgrading the rom to use an exploit in 4.2.2 to gain root. But with 4.4.2 you can't downgrade the rom safely, without risk of bricking your phone, so you can't use these anymore.
JCASE has already posted he has an exploit to use to gain root on 4.4.2, but due to job and family, wont release it or a process making use of it until the fall. Who knows what ROM Moto will push out by then, and if they will have patched the exploit already. BUT before you get mad at JCASE for waiting so long, that doesn't address a Write Protection dis-abler. I've not seen any talk about work on that for locked bootloaders (when you unlock the bootloader, like on Dev Editions, the write protection is disabled). So JCASE could release his Root exploit, he or someone could develop that process, but it would be kind of useless without the ability to disable write protection since all your changes would be lost as soon as you power off/on.
Trust me, *IF* or when a Root and Write Protection bypass is out for 4.4.2, you will see threads on it. Until then, you have to sit tight.
Now, if you have 4.4 on your phone, you can root and disable write protection by using SlapMyMoto and MotoWpNoMo, but then you must NOT take the 4.4.2 OTA update, as you will keep root, but write protection will become enabled again. You can use a root capable file explorer (like Root Explorer) to navigate to /system/priv-app and rename the 3C_OTA.APK to 3C_OTA.APK.BAK to prevent the OTA update prompts.
If you are on 4.4 rooted with write protection disabled, you might want to check out the SafeStrap discussions over at Rootzwiki.com. That might at least afford you a way to run 4.4.2.

Related

Can someone point me to some info on Dev editions & bootloaders?

I'm unfamiliar with how this all fits together. For example, I don't understand how if the bootloader is unlocked, why will it still brick the device if the bootloader is mismatched? Why would the BL version matter if it's unlocked? If the BL will still cripple the device, then it's not really "unlocked", is it?
Also, what does this mean in the future after Motorola stops updating the X? I know we can flash ROMs, but will we be stuck using the base of whatever update Moto/Verizon decides to put out?
The more detailed the better. I've tried googling and searching here, but I can't find any sort of place where this info is gathered & presented in a digestible format....all I'm finding is little pieces of info here & there. I don't even know enough to properly ask for more info. Any help, explanations, or links would be greatly appreciated.
Hopefully this gets you started... Its not completed, but I was typing it up in my spare time because I see a lot of people asking these questions
Versions of the Moto X..
There are 3 main versions of the Moto X available today..
1. Carrier Branded (aka Retail). Except for T-Mobie USA, this is available for order/pickup directly from your Carrier, their store or web site.
2. MotoMaker Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Ordering this version allows you to customize your device by selecting Memory, Front Color, Back Color, Accent (button, camera trim ring) color, add custom wall paper, engraving on the back, or even startup message.
3. Developer Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Available as black front, woven white back, silver accent (button/camera trim ring).
Due to the frequencies used by the various wireless carriers where the phones are sold, there are a few different model number designations like XT1060 (Verizon), XT1058 (AT&T), XT1053 (T-Mobile USA and GSM Developer Edition), along with other models depending on location/carrier. (NOTE: the Retail/MotoMaker and Developer Edition for Verizon are both XT1060).
Locked vs Unlocked bootloader. Why is this important?
Whats the difference between locked and unlocked?
While this article gives a good, detailed explanation -> http://www.extremetech.com/computin...tloader-and-why-does-verizon-want-them-locked
An overly simplified way of explaining this would be to say that With a locked bootloader, you can only flash ROMS and software digitally signed by your phone maker. Having an unlocked Bootloader allows you to flash custom roms, recoveries, kernels, etc, or to fully hack/customize your phone.
Why would I want unlocked bootloader?
If you are looking to root your phone and have a locked bootloader, you have to wait for someone to find a flaw in your phones rom/firmware, and exploit/hack it. This is getting increasingly difficult as Android evolves. As new updates for the phone get released, you need to wait until someone finds a usable exploit, creates a repeatable process that is relatively safe, and releases it. This could takes weeks, months, or never come. For Android 4.2.2, there was a process called RockMyMoto, for Android 4.4, SlapMyMoto. Neither of these exploits work for the Android 4.4.2 update, and as of this writing, no exploit/hack/process has been released for 4.4.2.
Having an unlocked bootloader, and being able to flash 3rd party code simplifies the rooting/hacking process, but could also be dangerous. If you want to root without having to wait on exploits or processes to be found, having an unlocked or unlockable bootloader is considered best. Once your bootloader is unlocked, you can install a custom recovery (like TWRP), boot to it, and install SuperSU and you will be rooted. This can be done no matter what ROM version is on your phone.
To fully remove the phone maker's rom, and replace it with a completely custom rom, your phone needs to have an unlocked bootloader.
Can I unlock the Bootloader on my Moto X?
If you have a Developer Edition Moto X, yes you can unlock the bootloader and it doesn't void your warranty.
If you have a MotoMaker or Carrier Branded model, it depends on IF your carrier allows Motorola to do it, and will void your warranty. For example, Verizon and ATT does now allow Motorola to unlock your boot loader. To see if your Moto X bootloader can be unlocked see -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth You can step through the procees until you get to the final submit WITHOUT voiding your warranty. Once you hit the final submit to request the code, your warranty is voided (unless your phone is the developer edition)
For the Verizon and ATT which Moto's web site wouldn't give out bootloader unlock codes, there was an option of buying the Bootloader Unlock Code for Non-Dev Verizon X from a Chinese site or middleman, but it appears to have dried up. (no contact from the seller in a few days, and rumors he got caught/fired/worse)
What is Write Protection Enabled or Disabled? Why is this important?
Due to trying to enhance the security on newer Android phones, the Motorola X ships with "Write Protection" enabled. This prevents any changes to /System or other "protected" folders from surviving a Power Off/On (aka hard reset). If you manage to gain root, but Write Protection is still enabled, any changes you make while rooted would be lost after Power Off/On.
If you have an unlockable bootloader, unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
If you have a locked bootloader, an exploit/hack needs to be found and process needs to be developed and released. For Android 4.4 and below on the X, a process called MotoWpNoMo was used, however the Android 4.4.2 update closed/fixed the exploit and MotoWpNoMo no longer works. So as of this writing, if you have a locked boot loader, there is no way to Disable Write Protection on Android 4.4.2.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Can flash a 3rd party or custom rom?
If you want to flash a Non-Motorola ROM on your phone, say something like CyanogenMod, you MUST have an unlocked bootloader.
Can you just tell me how to root my Moto X phone?(sorry, this might be the long answer, but hopefully it will help you understand what I'm saying and why..)
SlapMyMoto can be used to root, and MotoWpNoMo can be used to disable write protection *IF* your phone is on 4.4 or lower.
MotoWpNoMo (which disables write protection) is needed because when Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
If you are on 4.4. and use SlapMyMoto/MotoWpNoMo, but later take the OTA to 4.4.2, you might keep root but Write Protection will be re-enabled with no way to disable it.
Due to fixes and changes in 4.4.2, the Root and Disable Write Protection processes that worked on 4.4 and lower, no longer work on 4.4.2. And don't expect anything for 4.4.2 for a while, if ever. So if the phone you buy comes with 4.4.2 pre-installed, or you have taken the 4.4.2 OTA update, and you have a locked bootloader you're stuck!!
This is not an issue if you have an unlocked bootloader. You can still unlock your bootloader (which disables write protection), and root (by just using a custom recovery and flashing SuperSU) no matter what rom is on your phone.
In conclusion...
If you really need ROOT, Write Protection Disabled, want to modify/replace/delete system files, the ability to tether on an unlimited data plan, flash a custom rom (like CyanogenMod or others) then you really should consider getting the Developer Edition X, as you can unlock its bootloader (without voiding warranty), root it (no matter what rom is on the phone), and do what you want.
If your carrier allows Moto to give you the code to unlock the bootloader, then you just have to weight the option of being able to order your phone customized (moto maker) and unlock the bootloader while voiding the warranty, or have an uncustomized phone that the warranty remains intact should you unlock the bootloader.
KidJoe said:
Hopefully this gets you started... Its not completed, but I was typing it up in my spare time because I see a lot of people asking these questions
Versions of the Moto X..
There are 3 main versions of the Moto X available today..
1. Carrier Branded (aka Retail). Except for T-Mobie USA, this is available for order/pickup directly from your Carrier, their store or web site.
2. MotoMaker Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Ordering this version allows you to customize your device by selecting Memory, Front Color, Back Color, Accent (button, camera trim ring) color, add custom wall paper, engraving on the back, or even startup message.
3. Developer Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Available as black front, woven white back, silver accent (button/camera trim ring).
Due to the frequencies used by the various wireless carriers where the phones are sold, there are a few different model number designations like XT1060 (Verizon), XT1058 (AT&T), XT1053 (T-Mobile USA and GSM Developer Edition), along with other models depending on location/carrier. (NOTE: the Retail/MotoMaker and Developer Edition for Verizon are both XT1060).
Locked vs Unlocked bootloader. Why is this important?
Whats the difference between locked and unlocked?
While this article gives a good, detailed explanation -> http://www.extremetech.com/computin...tloader-and-why-does-verizon-want-them-locked
An overly simplified way of explaining this would be to say that With a locked bootloader, you can only flash ROMS and software digitally signed by your phone maker. Having an unlocked Bootloader allows you to flash custom roms, recoveries, kernels, etc, or to fully hack/customize your phone.
Why would I want unlocked bootloader?
If you are looking to root your phone and have a locked bootloader, you have to wait for someone to find a flaw in your phones rom/firmware, and exploit/hack it. This is getting increasingly difficult as Android evolves. As new updates for the phone get released, you need to wait until someone finds a usable exploit, creates a repeatable process that is relatively safe, and releases it. This could takes weeks, months, or never come. For Android 4.2.2, there was a process called RockMyMoto, for Android 4.4, SlapMyMoto. Neither of these exploits work for the Android 4.4.2 update, and as of this writing, no exploit/hack/process has been released for 4.4.2.
Having an unlocked bootloader, and being able to flash 3rd party code simplifies the rooting/hacking process, but could also be dangerous. If you want to root without having to wait on exploits or processes to be found, having an unlocked or unlockable bootloader is considered best. Once your bootloader is unlocked, you can install a custom recovery (like TWRP), boot to it, and install SuperSU and you will be rooted. This can be done no matter what ROM version is on your phone.
To fully remove the phone maker's rom, and replace it with a completely custom rom, your phone needs to have an unlocked bootloader.
Can I unlock the Bootloader on my Moto X?
If you have a Developer Edition Moto X, yes you can unlock the bootloader and it doesn't void your warranty.
If you have a MotoMaker or Carrier Branded model, it depends on IF your carrier allows Motorola to do it, and will void your warranty. For example, Verizon and ATT does now allow Motorola to unlock your boot loader. To see if your Moto X bootloader can be unlocked see -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth You can step through the procees until you get to the final submit WITHOUT voiding your warranty. Once you hit the final submit to request the code, your warranty is voided (unless your phone is the developer edition)
For the Verizon and ATT which Moto's web site wouldn't give out bootloader unlock codes, there was an option of buying the Bootloader Unlock Code for Non-Dev Verizon X from a Chinese site or middleman, but it appears to have dried up. (no contact from the seller in a few days, and rumors he got caught/fired/worse)
What is Write Protection Enabled or Disabled? Why is this important?
Due to trying to enhance the security on newer Android phones, the Motorola X ships with "Write Protection" enabled. This prevents any changes to /System or other "protected" folders from surviving a Power Off/On (aka hard reset). If you manage to gain root, but Write Protection is still enabled, any changes you make while rooted would be lost after Power Off/On.
If you have an unlockable bootloader, unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
If you have a locked bootloader, an exploit/hack needs to be found and process needs to be developed and released. For Android 4.4 and below on the X, a process called MotoWpNoMo was used, however the Android 4.4.2 update closed/fixed the exploit and MotoWpNoMo no longer works. So as of this writing, if you have a locked boot loader, there is no way to Disable Write Protection on Android 4.4.2.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Can flash a 3rd party or custom rom?
If you want to flash a Non-Motorola ROM on your phone, say something like CyanogenMod, you MUST have an unlocked bootloader.
Can you just tell me how to root my Moto X phone?(sorry, this might be the long answer, but hopefully it will help you understand what I'm saying and why..)
SlapMyMoto can be used to root, and MotoWpNoMo can be used to disable write protection *IF* your phone is on 4.4 or lower.
MotoWpNoMo (which disables write protection) is needed because when Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
If you are on 4.4. and use SlapMyMoto/MotoWpNoMo, but later take the OTA to 4.4.2, you might keep root but Write Protection will be re-enabled with no way to disable it.
Due to fixes and changes in 4.4.2, the Root and Disable Write Protection processes that worked on 4.4 and lower, no longer work on 4.4.2. And don't expect anything for 4.4.2 for a while, if ever. So if the phone you buy comes with 4.4.2 pre-installed, or you have taken the 4.4.2 OTA update, and you have a locked bootloader you're stuck!!
This is not an issue if you have an unlocked bootloader. You can still unlock your bootloader (which disables write protection), and root (by just using a custom recovery and flashing SuperSU) no matter what rom is on your phone.
In conclusion...
If you really need ROOT, Write Protection Disabled, want to modify/replace/delete system files, the ability to tether on an unlimited data plan, flash a custom rom (like CyanogenMod or others) then you really should consider getting the Developer Edition X, as you can unlock its bootloader (without voiding warranty), root it (no matter what rom is on the phone), and do what you want.
If your carrier allows Moto to give you the code to unlock the bootloader, then you just have to weight the option of being able to order your phone customized (moto maker) and unlock the bootloader while voiding the warranty, or have an uncustomized phone that the warranty remains intact should you unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your reply! It has helped clear up most of my confusion.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you elaborate a little bit on this? What changes were made, and why does it brick your phone? (If the bootloader is unlocked, this shouldn't be an issue.....but this is not the case, obviously.) What makes this different than loading a ROM? Is there the same chance to brick your phone from flashing a ROM?
Arak-Nafein said:
Can you elaborate a little bit on this? What changes were made, and why does it brick your phone? (If the bootloader is unlocked, this shouldn't be an issue.....but this is not the case, obviously.) What makes this different than loading a ROM? Is there the same chance to brick your phone from flashing a ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't create the bootloader, so I can't elaborate on what exactly was changed. Moto doesn't post release notes. As why it bricks, I could only tell you what I've read. And the thread that was here discussing it in details has vanished for some reason. I do know things like GPT.BIN also come into play, but I don't remember ALL of the details.
As for this shouldn't be an issue with the bootloader being unlocked.. Well, I can tell you unlocked bootloader or not, the long thread that vanished was reports of both those who used the unlock code from Moto to unlock their bootloader, and those who still had a locked bootloader.
The bootloader is unlocked at least to the point that it disables the write protection and you can flash roms, recoveries, etc that are NOT signed by Moto. Is that "fully unlocked" I'll let someone else answer that.
If the 3rd party rom you are trying to install tries to revert the bootloader to a lower level or tries to downgrade the security files (GPT.BIN and a few others), then yes, you have a chance to brick. But most likely only the System partition will be written on 3rd party rom.
KidJoe said:
I didn't create the bootloader, so I can't elaborate on what exactly was changed. Moto doesn't post release notes. As why it bricks, I could only tell you what I've read. And the thread that was here discussing it in details has vanished for some reason. I do know things like GPT.BIN also come into play, but I don't remember ALL of the details.
As for this shouldn't be an issue with the bootloader being unlocked.. Well, I can tell you unlocked bootloader or not, the long thread that vanished was reports of both those who used the unlock code from Moto to unlock their bootloader, and those who still had a locked bootloader.
The bootloader is unlocked at least to the point that it disables the write protection and you can flash roms, recoveries, etc that are NOT signed by Moto. Is that "fully unlocked" I'll let someone else answer that.
If the 3rd party rom you are trying to install tries to revert the bootloader to a lower level or tries to downgrade the security files (GPT.BIN and a few others), then yes, you have a chance to brick. But most likely only the System partition will be written on 3rd party rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks again!
I would love to read that thread if anyone has it archived or something.
KidJoe said:
Hopefully this gets you started... Its not completed, but I was typing it up in my spare time because I see a lot of people asking these questions
Versions of the Moto X..
There are 3 main versions of the Moto X available today..
1. Carrier Branded (aka Retail). Except for T-Mobie USA, this is available for order/pickup directly from your Carrier, their store or web site.
2. MotoMaker Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Ordering this version allows you to customize your device by selecting Memory, Front Color, Back Color, Accent (button, camera trim ring) color, add custom wall paper, engraving on the back, or even startup message.
3. Developer Edition. Available directly from Motorola.com. Available as black front, woven white back, silver accent (button/camera trim ring).
Due to the frequencies used by the various wireless carriers where the phones are sold, there are a few different model number designations like XT1060 (Verizon), XT1058 (AT&T), XT1053 (T-Mobile USA and GSM Developer Edition), along with other models depending on location/carrier. (NOTE: the Retail/MotoMaker and Developer Edition for Verizon are both XT1060).
Locked vs Unlocked bootloader. Why is this important?
Whats the difference between locked and unlocked?
While this article gives a good, detailed explanation -> http://www.extremetech.com/computin...tloader-and-why-does-verizon-want-them-locked
An overly simplified way of explaining this would be to say that With a locked bootloader, you can only flash ROMS and software digitally signed by your phone maker. Having an unlocked Bootloader allows you to flash custom roms, recoveries, kernels, etc, or to fully hack/customize your phone.
Why would I want unlocked bootloader?
If you are looking to root your phone and have a locked bootloader, you have to wait for someone to find a flaw in your phones rom/firmware, and exploit/hack it. This is getting increasingly difficult as Android evolves. As new updates for the phone get released, you need to wait until someone finds a usable exploit, creates a repeatable process that is relatively safe, and releases it. This could takes weeks, months, or never come. For Android 4.2.2, there was a process called RockMyMoto, for Android 4.4, SlapMyMoto. Neither of these exploits work for the Android 4.4.2 update, and as of this writing, no exploit/hack/process has been released for 4.4.2.
Having an unlocked bootloader, and being able to flash 3rd party code simplifies the rooting/hacking process, but could also be dangerous. If you want to root without having to wait on exploits or processes to be found, having an unlocked or unlockable bootloader is considered best. Once your bootloader is unlocked, you can install a custom recovery (like TWRP), boot to it, and install SuperSU and you will be rooted. This can be done no matter what ROM version is on your phone.
To fully remove the phone maker's rom, and replace it with a completely custom rom, your phone needs to have an unlocked bootloader.
Can I unlock the Bootloader on my Moto X?
If you have a Developer Edition Moto X, yes you can unlock the bootloader and it doesn't void your warranty.
If you have a MotoMaker or Carrier Branded model, it depends on IF your carrier allows Motorola to do it, and will void your warranty. For example, Verizon and ATT does now allow Motorola to unlock your boot loader. To see if your Moto X bootloader can be unlocked see -> https://motorola-global-portal.cust...e/bootloader/unlock-your-device-a/action/auth You can step through the procees until you get to the final submit WITHOUT voiding your warranty. Once you hit the final submit to request the code, your warranty is voided (unless your phone is the developer edition)
For the Verizon and ATT which Moto's web site wouldn't give out bootloader unlock codes, there was an option of buying the Bootloader Unlock Code for Non-Dev Verizon X from a Chinese site or middleman, but it appears to have dried up. (no contact from the seller in a few days, and rumors he got caught/fired/worse)
What is Write Protection Enabled or Disabled? Why is this important?
Due to trying to enhance the security on newer Android phones, the Motorola X ships with "Write Protection" enabled. This prevents any changes to /System or other "protected" folders from surviving a Power Off/On (aka hard reset). If you manage to gain root, but Write Protection is still enabled, any changes you make while rooted would be lost after Power Off/On.
If you have an unlockable bootloader, unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
If you have a locked bootloader, an exploit/hack needs to be found and process needs to be developed and released. For Android 4.4 and below on the X, a process called MotoWpNoMo was used, however the Android 4.4.2 update closed/fixed the exploit and MotoWpNoMo no longer works. So as of this writing, if you have a locked boot loader, there is no way to Disable Write Protection on Android 4.4.2.
Can I downgrade the firmware on my phone before or after I unlock the bootloader?
As for downgrading firmware, the same caveats and warnings still apply. Due to changes in the bootloader included with 4.4.2, under certain circumstances when trying to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.4 or lower, you could either brick your phone, or set it up to brick in the future when you take an upgrade. So it is suggested you just stick with what is on your phone once you get on 4.4.2.
Can flash a 3rd party or custom rom?
If you want to flash a Non-Motorola ROM on your phone, say something like CyanogenMod, you MUST have an unlocked bootloader.
Can you just tell me how to root my Moto X phone?(sorry, this might be the long answer, but hopefully it will help you understand what I'm saying and why..)
SlapMyMoto can be used to root, and MotoWpNoMo can be used to disable write protection *IF* your phone is on 4.4 or lower.
MotoWpNoMo (which disables write protection) is needed because when Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you take the 4.4.2 OTA), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Even if you have root, but lost Write Protection, any apps you've installed that need to write to system can't permanently save their changes (you have to re-do every time your phone powers off/on), and any Root type app, or app that gets installed to /system after WP is enabled will be lost at power off/on.
If you are on 4.4. and use SlapMyMoto/MotoWpNoMo, but later take the OTA to 4.4.2, you might keep root but Write Protection will be re-enabled with no way to disable it.
Due to fixes and changes in 4.4.2, the Root and Disable Write Protection processes that worked on 4.4 and lower, no longer work on 4.4.2. And don't expect anything for 4.4.2 for a while, if ever. So if the phone you buy comes with 4.4.2 pre-installed, or you have taken the 4.4.2 OTA update, and you have a locked bootloader you're stuck!!
This is not an issue if you have an unlocked bootloader. You can still unlock your bootloader (which disables write protection), and root (by just using a custom recovery and flashing SuperSU) no matter what rom is on your phone.
In conclusion...
If you really need ROOT, Write Protection Disabled, want to modify/replace/delete system files, the ability to tether on an unlimited data plan, flash a custom rom (like CyanogenMod or others) then you really should consider getting the Developer Edition X, as you can unlock its bootloader (without voiding warranty), root it (no matter what rom is on the phone), and do what you want.
If your carrier allows Moto to give you the code to unlock the bootloader, then you just have to weight the option of being able to order your phone customized (moto maker) and unlock the bootloader while voiding the warranty, or have an uncustomized phone that the warranty remains intact should you unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Question. Do you need a custom recovery to root? Can you root the Dev edition with stock recovery? I had a locked edition before and rooted it using the exploit method. Now i'm contemplating a Dev edition but don't want to use a custom recovery to root it.
Slim706 said:
Question. Do you need a custom recovery to root? Can you root the Dev edition with stock recovery? I had a locked edition before and rooted it using the exploit method. Now i'm contemplating a Dev edition but don't want to use a custom recovery to root it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You must root via custom recovery. But after you are rooted, you can flash stock recovery back on if you wish and remain rooted.
I just got my Moto X in India and it bears the model number XT1052, it is the officially available model in India.
But, I saw no mention of this on XDA anywhere, so also I wasn't able to find any root methods for it. Can you suggest anything?
krazzyvishal said:
I just got my Moto X in India and it bears the model number XT1052, it is the officially available model in India.
But, I saw no mention of this on XDA anywhere, so also I wasn't able to find any root methods for it. Can you suggest anything?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root methods are all the same....one way for locked bootloader and one way for unlocked bootloaders.
Read the complete moto x guide stickied in the general section for how to. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
---------- Post added at 11:46 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:45 AM ----------
Here,
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2603358
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
So, no one knows why downgrading bricks the device? I mean, I know it's because of the bootloader mismatch.....but that's unlocked so why is it being bricked? It seems "unlocked" is not really unlocked....I tried searching, is this efuse that's bricking the phone? If so, WTF? Why would they make something that destroys your phone?
Arak-Nafein said:
So, no one knows why downgrading bricks the device? I mean, I know it's because of the bootloader mismatch.....but that's unlocked so why is it being bricked? It seems "unlocked" is not really unlocked....I tried searching, is this efuse that's bricking the phone? If so, WTF? Why would they make something that destroys your phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its just how it is. These aren't nexus phones. They made the 4.4.2 bootloader in a way that if you downgrage, then most commonly try to upgrade again...by ota for sure anyway, boom. Brick.. I'm sure it wasnt made that way intentionally. Personally I just think phone companies just don't care or support what we do. So they don't create anything thinking in terms of rooting and flashing this or that. Its not their concern....since 98 percent of their customers update their unmodified phones over ota and thats it.
Have to remember we're an extremely small percentage of phone users. They aren't even thinking of us when they make stuff. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
Its just how it is. These aren't nexus phones. They made the 4.4.2 bootloader in a way that if you downgrage, then most commonly try to upgrade again...by ota for sure anyway, boom. Brick.. I'm sure it wasnt made that way intentionally. Personally I just think phone companies just don't care or support what we do. So they don't create anything thinking in terms of rooting and flashing this or that. Its not their concern....since 98 percent of their customers update their unmodified phones over ota and thats it.
Have to remember we're an extremely small percentage of phone users. They aren't even thinking of us when they make stuff. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yet, they made the developer edition.
I know this isn't a nexus device, but I was expecting nexus-like functionality with the dev edition bootloader unlocked, I know this is not the case now. (Although, you get most of the functionality)
Well, they make a "developer edition" that bricks when you try to downgrade. That seems counter-intuitive.
That's why I'm trying to find the technical details of what causes the brick. Why does it brick? What are they trying to protect? The boot partition? I don't understand the whole point of it or why it happens. Why make a developer edition if it gets bricked like a non-dev edition when flashing? This may have been already answered when the first dev phones came out, but I missed that train. I only upgrade my phone every 2 years or so and this is my first "dev edition" so it's all new to me. I've done a bit of reading, but nothing explicitly states what's cause the brick, just that "it happens". What's causing it?
My main reason for asking is just because I'm curious & would like to understand.
The second is, I'm wondering what happens when we stop getting updates. Will we be stuck on the last version of Android that is given to us?
Arak-Nafein said:
I know this isn't a nexus device, but I was expecting nexus-like functionality with the dev edition bootloader unlocked, I know this is not the case now.
Well, they make a "developer edition" that bricks when you try to downgrade. That seems counter-intuitive.
That's why I'm trying to find the technical details of what causes the brick. Why does it brick? What are they trying to protect? The boot partition? I don't understand the whole point of it or why it happens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt they meant it to be that way....it just turned out that way. And again, I doubt they care. Dev editions are just made to make more money. And keep up to competitors who make them. You keep your warranty, but other than that....nothing is special about them. ?
Why it works that way? Dunno. Lol
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Arak-Nafein said:
Yet, they made the developer edition.
I know this isn't a nexus device, but I was expecting nexus-like functionality with the dev edition bootloader unlocked, I know this is not the case now. (Although, you get most of the functionality)
Well, they make a "developer edition" that bricks when you try to downgrade. That seems counter-intuitive.
That's why I'm trying to find the technical details of what causes the brick. Why does it brick? What are they trying to protect? The boot partition? I don't understand the whole point of it or why it happens. Why make a developer edition if it gets bricked like a non-dev edition when flashing? This may have been already answered when the first dev phones came out, but I missed that train. I only upgrade my phone every 2 years or so and this is my first "dev edition" so it's all new to me. I've done a bit of reading, but nothing explicitly states what's cause the brick, just that "it happens". What's causing it?
My main reason for asking is just because I'm curious & would like to understand.
The second is, I'm wondering what happens when we stop getting updates. Will we be stuck on the last version of Android that is given to us?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to keep in mind, other than unlocking the bootloader, and Moto Maker customizations, the Developer Edition is the same as the "retail" edition phones except that you can get the unlock code from Moto for free without voiding your warranty and are stuck with the black front, woven white back, and silver accents.
Order a Verizon X via Moto Maker, its an XT1060, order a Dev Edition for Verizon its an XT1060, and they use the same Rom/SBF/FXZ files. GSM side, the "Unlocked GSM" model that comes with a T-Mobile SIM is an XT1053, a GSM Dev Edition is a XT1053, and again, they use the same rom/sbf/fxz. Did moto do this to "save cost" maybe?
The Dev Editions are unlocked just enough to allow you to flash stuff not signed by Moto. That is it. Moto makes no promises that you can successfully downgrade, or anything. If you have a Dev Edition and brick it, its covered under warranty.
As for why it works this way, only Moto knows. We can only speculate, guess and such, which was done in a big long thread that has since disappeared (not sure why it disappeared). Beyond that, we can only relay the cautions we know of, and tell you how it works based on the experience of several people. I'm sorry if that is not enough. If you want the real answer, you'l have to call Moto directly, or see if you can post on G+ tagging some of the Moto people, but they likely wont tell you.
I can tell you this.. My Moto Xoom was unlocked, needed no code to do so, and was virtually "un-brickable." The X does not work that same way. I can only GUESS why. (carrier request maybe? something else?)
KidJoe said:
You have to keep in mind, other than unlocking the bootloader, and Moto Maker customizations, the Developer Edition is the same as the "retail" edition phones except that you can get the unlock code from Moto for free without voiding your warranty and are stuck with the black front, woven white back, and silver accents.
Order a Verizon X via Moto Maker, its an XT1060, order a Dev Edition for Verizon its an XT1060, and they use the same Rom/SBF/FXZ files. GSM side, the "Unlocked GSM" model that comes with a T-Mobile SIM is an XT1053, a GSM Dev Edition is a XT1053, and again, they use the same rom/sbf/fxz. Did moto do this to "save cost" maybe?
The Dev Editions are unlocked just enough to allow you to flash stuff not signed by Moto. That is it. Moto makes no promises that you can successfully downgrade, or anything. If you have a Dev Edition and brick it, its covered under warranty.
As for why it works this way, only Moto knows. We can only speculate, guess and such, which was done in a big long thread that has since disappeared (not sure why it disappeared). Beyond that, we can only relay the cautions we know of, and tell you how it works based on the experience of several people. I'm sorry if that is not enough. If you want the real answer, you'l have to call Moto directly, or see if you can post on G+ tagging some of the Moto people, but they likely wont tell you.
I can tell you this.. My Moto Xoom was unlocked, needed no code to do so, and was virtually "un-brickable." The X does not work that same way. I can only GUESS why. (carrier request maybe? something else?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Argh, so frustrating! Now I REALLY wanna see that thread. XDA isn't archived on the wayback machine is it?
Arak-Nafein said:
Argh, so frustrating! Now I REALLY wanna see that thread. XDA isn't archived on the wayback machine is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the thread was cached in google at one point, now its not, it only comes up with link to XDA but when you click on it, XDA says the thread does not exist.
See the OP here -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/informative-thread-t2658742
People that REALLY love flashing and tinkering.....need a nexus. Bottom line. Nothing else compares....today anyway.
As much as I LOVED my X....this is why my wife has it now and i have the N5.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
People that REALLY love flashing and tinkering.....need a nexus. Bottom line. Nothing else compares....today anyway.
As much as I LOVED my X....this is why my wife has it now and i have the N5.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If Verizon would allow it I would have already done it.
I did some more reading, it appears it all comes from motoboot.img(motoboot partition) & gpt.bin("partition" partition). As long as you don't mess with those & their respective partitions you shouldn't have to worry about bricking your phone. You can still access & read/write the boot partition & the system partition & everything else when unlocked. The OTAs will modify these (And check for certain versions of these) which can leave you in a nasty catch-22 situation & thus the brick. It's not the actual downgrade that bricks it, it's the security from the OTAs that error out & leave you stranded. You can still flash the OTA if you do it manually & leave out the bootloader stuff.(EDIT: This isn't entirely true) You can flash any other ROM because they don't have the built in security like the OTAs. So, if you flip over to an AOSP or CM ROM or anything not based on Motos stuff you needn't worry about nazi bootloaders & OTAs bricking your device. The only problem with going to those ROMs is the loss of Active Display & Touchless control. I'm guess Moto isn't releasing anything on the X8?
Does this sound correct? That's what I've collected from my readings. Feel free to correct me.
Arak-Nafein said:
If Verizon would allow it I would have already done it.
I did some more reading, it appears it all comes from motoboot.img & gpt.bin. As long as you don't mess with those & their respective partitions you shouldn't have to worry about bricking your phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've said before....and I stand by it. Downgrading from 4.4.2 on any moto x is like playing russian roulette. And I simply say, don't. Lol
But.....its each person's phone and they can do what they want with it. ?
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
kj2112 said:
I've said before....and I stand by it. Downgrading from 4.4.2 on any moto x is like playing russian roulette. And I simply say, don't. Lol
But.....its each person's phone and they can do what they want with it. ��
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That kinda came out wrong and I've tried to edit my post to better explain it.
The motoboot.img & the gpt.bin go together. For example, if you are on 4.4, you can manually flash all the parts except the motoboo.img & gpt.bin from 4.4.2 and it will work, and you'll retain the dowgradability of 4.4. But, you're setting yourself up for disaster should you accept an OTA (Which will be looking for the updated motoboot.img & gpt.bin. gpt.bin will be updated, but the bootloader will fail. This leaves you with a mismatched motoboot.img & gpt.bin and boom brick on next restart.)
You're right tho, it's best not to play with that. Unless you disable Motos OTA & treat it like a ROM that you have to return to stock before taking an OTA.
The bootloader is unlocked....but Motorola's software has built-in checks that only allow it to overwrite a specific version (cumulative changes?).
At least, that's the way I understand it. I'm probably way wrong here.

[Q] How do I get my WiFi tether back on my XT1060 4.4.2

I have a locked BL VZW XT1060 on 4.4.2 stock
It was/is rooted.
It has SuperSU installed but without binaries installed.
A little history:
Originally on 4.2.2 then OTA to 4.4.
Downgraded to 4.2.2 and applied SlapMyMoto.
I believe I took OTA to 4.4 with the intention to sit tight there.
I accidentally took OTA to 4.4.2.
This is where it gets weird.
Root was still intact but write protection was temporary, meaning after reboot, I lose it.
This was fine as it allowed me to temporarily disable write protection and enable the native hotspot.
Then, one day I was updating some apps on my phone, I noticed that I completely lost the ability to disable to write protection. I tried uninstalling all to the app updates to no avail.
What are my options to get WiFi tether/Hotspot back?
Sunshine, unlock the bootloader, and have a fully unlocked device. Anything else and you'll likely run into issues similar to what you have now.
Sent from my Moto X
What the guy above me said.
@slingblade01 what you described is exactly what happens.
The vulnerability which MotoWpNoMo exploited to disable write protection was patched in 4.4.2, so if you have a LOCKED Bootloader, and updated from 4.4 you could keep root, but write protection became enabled with no way to disable it again.
If you don't care about upgrading past 4.4.2, you can search for TowelPieRoot, and gain temp root to.
Otherwise, as @imnuts and @nhizzat say, If you are still on 4.4.2, and have its bootloader, then you can use Sunshine to unlock the bootloader, after witch your phone will be just like a Developer Edition, or other edition with the bootloader unlocked.
In other words, once you unlock using Sunshine, you may root by following -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/instructions-unlocking-rooting-dev-ed-t2649738 Just please be sure to use the latest TWRP fastboot IMG file and Installable ZIP of SuperSU. Once completed, you will have root with write protection disabled.
And it does not matter what Stock ROM or Android version is on your phone (Android 5 has some changes, so stay tuned) , once your bootloader is unlocked, you can always root or re-root it. (You just can't take OTA with custom recovery on there!!).
For Sunshine discussion see -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/request-help-exploit-moto-x-bl-t2828471
and -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2792487
and most importantly....
http://theroot.ninja/
Sunshine will check if its compatible with your phone first, if it is, it will charge you $25 before proceeding to unlock you. Unlike using the bootloader unlock code from Moto or the middleman, using Sunshine to unlock your bootloader is not destructive.
Once your bootloader is unlocked via Sunshine, do NOT attempt to re-lock it. because if you do relock it, you wont be able to unlock it again!! BTW, there is no need to relock anyway. It doesn't impact taking OTAs, etc.
Thank you and last question.
Thanks, that was the answer I was expecting but wanted professional opinions first.
Before I use Sunshine, do I need to do any prep work first, such as disable/remove root (remove SuperSU)?
Thanks again.
slingblade01 said:
Thanks, that was the answer I was expecting but wanted professional opinions first.
Before I use Sunshine, do I need to do any prep work first, such as disable/remove root (remove SuperSU)?
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because I have a developer edition, I got my bootloader unlock code from moto, and haven't tried Sunshine.
From my brief reading/following of the Sunshine thread, I don't think you have to un-do anything. But I would consider flashing back to stock to remove any traces of SlapMyMoto and the like AFTER you unlock via Sunshine.

[Q] 5.0 and rooting on locked device

Hey,
So as mentioned in the large "How to root" thread, any update after 4.4.3 will essentially make your device unrootable (or unwritable).
I have the xt1058, which is one of the devices with a locked bootloader. This device is also compatible with Android 5.0, so I was wondering if I flash a captured OTA of 5.0 for the xt1058, will that lock out my bootloader and ensure that I can never root again?
Thanks!
5.0 > 4.4.3 so logic would lead me to say yes, you're stuck running stock.
If you are locked, you will not be able to Root on 5.0 for now, or for awhile.... If ever.
---------- Post added at 10:26 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:26 AM ----------
Once it comes out of course.
---------- Post added at 10:27 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:26 AM ----------
if you really want to Root.... Best to not update, as they may figure out how to Root kit Kat and not Lollipop. Usually how it goes.
themsftcpu said:
Hey,
So as mentioned in the large "How to root" thread, any update after 4.4.3 will essentially make your device unrootable (or unwritable).
I have the xt1058, which is one of the devices with a locked bootloader. This device is also compatible with Android 5.0, so I was wondering if I flash a captured OTA of 5.0 for the xt1058, will that lock out my bootloader and ensure that I can never root again?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure what you mean by "flash a captured OTA" but with a locked bootloader all you can flash is a ROM or OTA which is digitally signed by Moto and meant for your phone and its CID value. In other words, you can't capture an OTA zip file, modify, repack it and flash it to include Root, if you have a locked bootloader.
If you want usable root on the X you need two parts 1. Root Exploit, and 2. An Exploit that allows for disabling Write Protection.
If you have a locked bootloader you need someone to find these exploits and create a repeatable process to use them to gain root and disabling write protection. You basically need to find and exploit a flaw or vulnerability in the phone, or its software. i.e. Hack It.
When Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you install 4.4.2), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on.
On a locked bootloader you are relying on someone finding vulnerabilities in the phone or its software to both root and disable write protection. Period. No way around that.
As it stands right now, no one has released info on any vulnerabilities which could gain root on a locked bootloader 2013 X which have been upgraded to 4.4.4. So there is no process for rooting those locked bootloader phones.
While JCASE's Sunshine tool can exploit a vulnerability to unlock the bootloader (disabling write protection), it needs to be able to ROOT, or Temp Root, the phone first, which leaves out phones on 4.4.4 (unless I've missed a change recently). (and before you ask, no, you can NOT safely downgrade from 4.4.4 to 4.4.2 or lower, nor can you get to a state where Sunshine will work once you have 4.4.4 on your phone.)
With further security enhancements as android evolves, its only going to get more difficult finding vulnerabilities to exploit and creating repeatable processes for those with locked bootloaders. In other words while there might be a chance someone comes up with something for locked bootloader 2013 X's on Lollipop, I wouldn't count on it happening, nor would I "bet the farm" that it will ever happen.
KidJoe said:
Not sure what you mean by "flash a captured OTA" but with a locked bootloader all you can flash is a ROM or OTA which is digitally signed by Moto and meant for your phone and its CID value. In other words, you can't capture an OTA zip file, modify, repack it and flash it to include Root, if you have a locked bootloader.
If you want usable root on the X you need two parts 1. Root Exploit, and 2. An Exploit that allows for disabling Write Protection.
If you have a locked bootloader you need someone to find these exploits and create a repeatable process to use them to gain root and disabling write protection. You basically need to find and exploit a flaw or vulnerability in the phone, or its software. i.e. Hack It.
When Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, or the state you are in after you install 4.4.2), any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on.
On a locked bootloader you are relying on someone finding vulnerabilities in the phone or its software to both root and disable write protection. Period. No way around that.
As it stands right now, no one has released info on any vulnerabilities which could gain root on a locked bootloader 2013 X which have been upgraded to 4.4.4. So there is no process for rooting those locked bootloader phones.
While JCASE's Sunshine tool can exploit a vulnerability to unlock the bootloader (disabling write protection), it needs to be able to ROOT, or Temp Root, the phone first, which leaves out phones on 4.4.4 (unless I've missed a change recently). (and before you ask, no, you can NOT safely downgrade from 4.4.4 to 4.4.2 or lower, nor can you get to a state where Sunshine will work once you have 4.4.4 on your phone.)
With further security enhancements as android evolves, its only going to get more difficult finding vulnerabilities to exploit and creating repeatable processes for those with locked bootloaders. In other words while there might be a chance someone comes up with something for locked bootloader 2013 X's on Lollipop, I wouldn't count on it happening, nor would I "bet the farm" that it will ever happen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What about using safestrap? I also own a locked moto x and am currently running a rooted 4.4.4 ROM via safestrap.
Would this be possible to do with lollipop while retaining root?
frenchie007 said:
What about using safestrap? I also own a locked moto x and am currently running a rooted 4.4.4 ROM via safestrap.
Would this be possible to do with lollipop while retaining root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You'll likely still need to find a software vulnerability to exploit to gain root. And if Lillipop uses a new Kernel (which is does) it may not be compatible with the current Safestrap. And Hash stopped developing Safestrap.
That being said.. Safe strap requires the host phone/os be rooted with write protection disabled. So if you are running Safestrap on a 2013 X, you likely have Android 4.4 or lower as your host OS and have used something like SlapMyMoto/RockMyMoto along with MotoWpNoMo to root and disable write protection on your host OS. If this is the case, use Sunshine to unlock your bootloader. It will be much easier.
KidJoe said:
You'll likely still need to find a software vulnerability to exploit to gain root. And if Lillipop uses a new Kernel (which is does) it may not be compatible with the current Safestrap. And Hash stopped developing Safestrap.
That being said.. Safe strap requires the host phone/os be rooted with write protection disabled. So if you are running Safestrap on a 2013 X, you likely have Android 4.4 or lower as your host OS and have used something like SlapMyMoto/RockMyMoto along with MotoWpNoMo to root and disable write protection on your host OS. If this is the case, use Sunshine to unlock your bootloader. It will be much easier.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, I was holding out on unlocking with sunshine but seems like its necessary to keep root for lollipop. Thanks!
frenchie007 said:
Yep, I was holding out on unlocking with sunshine but seems like its necessary to keep root for lollipop. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would you ever wait to unlock your bootloader if you're able to? You wouldn't have to worry about any of this with an unlocked bootloader.
nhizzat said:
Why would you ever wait to unlock your bootloader if you're able to? You wouldn't have to worry about any of this with an unlocked bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My only guess would be.... he is still under warranty and isn't in a hurry to void it?
nhizzat said:
Why would you ever wait to unlock your bootloader if you're able to? You wouldn't have to worry about any of this with an unlocked bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
KidJoe said:
My only guess would be.... he is still under warranty and isn't in a hurry to void it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because sunshine costs money and yes, I'm in no hurry to unlock it (until lollipop comes along that is)
frenchie007 said:
Because sunshine costs money and yes, I'm in no hurry to unlock it (until lollipop comes along that is)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just keep in mind.... As soon as you update to 4.4.4 or Lollipop, There's no guarantee you'll ever be able to unlock with Sunshine.
You likely know this... But just checking. ?
Darth said:
Just keep in mind.... As soon as you update to 4.4.4 or Lollipop, There's no guarantee you'll ever be able to unlock with Sunshine.
You likely know this... But just checking. ��
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
using safestrap to flash only parts of 4.4.4 (excluding bootloader if I'm not mistaken) allows me to retain full root even on 4.4.4 even with a locked bootloader. however from what I understand you're right this won't be possible for lollipop :/
frenchie007 said:
using safestrap to flash only parts of 4.4.4 (excluding bootloader if I'm not mistaken) allows me to retain full root even on 4.4.4. however from what I understand you're right this won't be possible for lollipop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe it could..... But based on the issues I've seen in the N5 section, likely not. Lollipop probably won't play well with anything kit Kat or earlier.
Pretty hard to test too... Who knows what would happen if you tried. Also, who knows when or if SBF files will turn up.
---------- Post added at 05:15 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:13 PM ----------
Off topic.... But I will feel bad for anyone who has Lollipop complaints and tries downgrading. Could be the end of their device.
Unless moto changes that quirk with their bootloader.

[Q] XT1060 unlock bootloader and APN question

Hello, i have bought a vz xt1060 phone and i will use it in another carrier, it is not the dev version.
1) I would like to unlock it using sunshine sw and i would like to know what happens if i unlock the bootloader with android 4.2 and then i update to android 4.4.4 or 5.1, do i lose the unlocker bootloader?
2) I read some posts that said that is bootloader is locked, then APN configurations wont survive a power off/on, is it true? Is there a solution to that?
Thank you
1) Unlocking the bootloader with Sunshine appears to survive updating from 4.4.2 to 4.4.4. Since 5.x isn't officially released (at least in the Americas where we have locked bootloaders on ATT, Verizon and Republic Wireless), so I can't say for sure.
Remember, for a Verizon XT1060, Sunshine requires your phone to never have been updated past 4.4.2. I'm surprised to see an XT1060 that still has 4.2.2. Then again, if its never been on Verizon's network, maybe it didn't get the OTA's to take it to 4.4.4.
2) Let me quote what I typed in # 8 of this post -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/info-warning-risks-downgrading-impacts-t3058202 to explain write protection...
By default on the Moto X, write protection is enabled. When its enabled, any changes made to "protected" folders/files on the phone (like anything in /system or the like) will not survive power off/on. Its meant to ensure your phone does not get messed up. Consider it a security measure. MotoWpNoMo was a way for users with locked bootloaders to disable write protection. Initially said to be permanent, the 4.4.2 update/rom patched the exploit used and so write protection gets turned back on once 4.4.2 is installed on the phone. NOTE: If you have a phone with an unlockable bootloader, the process of unlocking the bootloader and rooting disables write protection, and MotoWpNoMo is not needed.
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Click to collapse
Yes, with write protection enabled, the APN settings do not appear to survive power off/on, or "hard rebooting."
Well i dont know for sure if the phone is 4.4.2 or no because i bought it in ebay and it hasnt arrived yet, but according to the pictures in the ad, it seems to have KXA20.16-1.25.2 software version which is 4.4.2. (http://www.ebay.com/itm/13150434743...arms=gh1g=I131504347432.N19.S2.M-10306.R2.TR3).
Thank you for the response!!
Today i received the phone, it is actually 4.4.4 version so i wont be able to unlock the bootloader.
I tried setting the APN and powering off/on and it did not dissapear, anyone know why? i am using in a carrier of Uruguay.

[Q] XT1058 (AT&T) lollipop root

I haven't seen any root methods listed here for 5.0.
I'm still on 4.4 because I didn't want to lose system write or root. Has anyone been able to successfully root 5.0 with system write ability? What method did you use?
I've seen mentions of using Chain Fire but the articles are usually poorly written, so I don't trust them.
d3athsd00r said:
I haven't seen any root methods listed here for 5.0.
I'm still on 4.4 because I didn't want to lose system write or root. Has anyone been able to successfully root 5.0 with system write ability? What method did you use?
I've seen mentions of using Chain Fire but the articles are usually poorly written, so I don't trust them.
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Click to collapse
Twrp has the option to root.
When you reboot from it.
That's how I rooted twrp
I'm on AT&T, so my bootloader is still locked. Unless someone has figured out how to unlock without paying $25.
d3athsd00r said:
I'm on AT&T, so my bootloader is still locked. Unless someone has figured out how to unlock without paying $25.
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Click to collapse
If you have a locked bootloader you need someone to find a in the phone, or its software. Then a repeatable process must be created to use the exploit to gain root. i.e. Hack It.
Root is only part. There is also Write Protection to worry about.. When Write Protection is enabled (the phone's default state with locked bootloader, any changes made to /system, or the like, (including, but not limited to, App installs, file modifications, deletions, renames, etc) are not permanent and are lost at power off/on. Starting with 4.4.2, on a locked bootloader we can't disable write protection. No Vulnerabilities have been found/posted. However, Unlocking the bootloader disables write protection.
So if you have a locked bootloader, and want to root 5.02, you first need 5.02 to come out, then vulnerability found, tested, and a process created. When 5.1 comes out, it needs to be tested to see if the vulnerability was patched. if it was, the work starts all over again.. Its like playing "whack a mole." And even then you likely will have write protection enabled... so any power off/on or "hard boot" will mean lost changes to your phone.
Since the 2013 X is getting old, and only ATT, Verizon, and Republic wireless can't unlock their bootloader through Motorola's site, Paying $25 to use Sunshine if your phone is still on 4.4.2 or lower, is not a bad deal if you want to be sure you can root and disable write protection no matter what Android version comes to your phone.
NOTE: I am not affiliated with Sunshine... just trying to help you understand... Coming up with a root process for a LOCKED Bootloader isn't "quick and easy"
d3athsd00r said:
I'm on AT&T, so my bootloader is still locked. Unless someone has figured out how to unlock without paying $25.
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Click to collapse
That's literally the only way you are going to have root on lollipop. At least for a while anyways. I don't think many people would be interested in finding and creating exploits after this phone has already be exploited to the point where almost everyone can unlock their bootloader. I started at 4.4, went down to 4.2.2, used RockMyMoto and MotoWPnomo, then used SlapMyMoto when upgrading back to 4.4. After that I installed Safestrap and was able to use the stock (and rooted) ROMs by @Ctrl-Freak all the way up to 4.4.4. But after I heard about Sunshine... That was the holy grail. Unlocked my bootloader, flashed a clean install of stock 4.4 and just upgraded till 4.4.4 again, flashed TWRP, rooted, and that was it.
Thanks guys. I was always wary about Sunshine. Just never sat well with me, but I think I'm going to do it after I move into my new house since I have no plans to upgrade anytime soon.
d3athsd00r said:
Thanks guys. I was always wary about Sunshine. Just never sat well with me, but I think I'm going to do it after I move into my new house since I have no plans to upgrade anytime soon.
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Click to collapse
Its true, Sunshine is kind of risky... BUT because of those involved with it, I would consider it as safe as any "hack" can get.
If I didn't have a Dev Edition X, and needed to unlock my bootloader, I would not hesitate to use Sunshine.

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