[Q] Root Verizon 4.4.2? - Moto X Q&A

I've been looking around for a while now and can be very skeptical about certain ones I've come across. But is there a trusted root out for Verizon 4.4.2, and if so could I get a link to it. I don't know much about rooting but it looks very interesting and I would like to mess around with it. Thanks.

ZWis212 said:
I've been looking around for a while now and can be very skeptical about certain ones I've come across. But is there a trusted root out for Verizon 4.4.2, and if so could I get a link to it. I don't know much about rooting but it looks very interesting and I would like to mess around with it. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. There is currently no way to root an X that has a locked bootloader. That includes Verizon, ATT, and others.
This is covered in many threads already, including some recently started ones.
Here are some I found quickly just by scrolling through the thread listing in this Q&A section....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/help-moto-x-t2726909
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/root-4-4-2-t2723553
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/root-4-4-2-locked-bootloader-t2719818
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/4-4-2-root-method-t2711789 (and -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/real-t2710834 )

Related

Locked BL Consequences

Could someone please explain the consequences of having a locked BL? Especially wrt to the Moto X? Also, what is this SS that everyone keeps talking about?
TIA
I've been in your situation before and couldn't find help or answers, phone makers sign there software with a signature when it boots so when the phone loads it looks for that signature and won't load unless the os had that signature. When your boatloader is locked it means you can't install custom roms or fully root your phone, people have to find an exploit to root it, like case's rockmymoto exploit. SS is safe strap and it is a workaround for installing custom roms on a locked boatloader phone.
Sent from my XT1055 using xda app-developers app
charlie-n said:
I've been in your situation before and couldn't find help or answers, phone makers sign there software with a signature when it boots so when the phone loads it looks for that signature and won't load unless the os had that signature. When your boatloader is locked it means you can't install custom roms or fully root your phone, people have to find an exploit to root it, like case's rockmymoto exploit. SS is safe strap and it is a workaround for installing custom roms on a locked boatloader phone.
Sent from my XT1055 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So basically then, something like the AT&T moto x can be rooted by using the rockmymoto exploit, but custom ROMs have to be made specifically to support SS?
Seeing as how I dont think development for the Moto X isnt going to take off on a major scale (like, say the Nexus), it would make no difference having a locked or unlocked BL, am I right?
anirudh412 said:
So basically then, something like the AT&T moto x can be rooted by using the rockmymoto exploit, but custom ROMs have to be made specifically to support SS?
Seeing as how I dont think development for the Moto X isnt going to take off on a major scale (like, say the Nexus), it would make no difference having a locked or unlocked BL, am I right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well there are several roms out there for unlocked BL currently. The reason to have a unlocked BL: if you want to flash roms a lot, if you want to make sure that you always can have root (sometimes exploits for a FW won't come out), and if you want complete control over your phone.
Much less dev will be done for SS roms because people are finding it difficult to build them I believe. I only use SS to keep root and take newer otas, or run roms like eclipse that are based off of stock FW, then just trimmed down with added features and lots more.
If you have the money, having an unlocked BL is nice because you don't need exploits for roots and other things. I would go with one if money wasn't an issue purely for that fact. Not sure how they are getting OTAs right now, but sometimes unlocked BLs also get OTAs quicker than locked BLs. And they can always flash the OTA if there is a leak. You can also always downgrade your device to a different FW if you want with an unlocked BL.
jayboyyyy said:
well there are several roms out there for unlocked BL currently. The reason to have a unlocked BL: if you want to flash roms a lot, if you want to make sure that you always can have root (sometimes exploits for a FW won't come out), and if you want complete control over your phone.
Much less dev will be done for SS roms because people are finding it difficult to build them I believe. I only use SS to keep root and take newer otas, or run roms like eclipse that are based off of stock FW, then just trimmed down with added features and lots more.
If you have the money, having an unlocked BL is nice because you don't need exploits for roots and other things. I would go with one if money wasn't an issue purely for that fact. Not sure how they are getting OTAs right now, but sometimes unlocked BLs also get OTAs quicker than locked BLs. And they can always flash the OTA if there is a leak. You can also always downgrade your device to a different FW if you want with an unlocked BL.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Money isnt the issue here. The thing is the Moto X isnt available in my country, but someone is selling their AT&T moto on local ebay. I jumped ship from using android for so many years to an iPhone 5 (my current phone) because I just wanted a phone I could use. Kinda grew tired of flashing ROMS and kernels all the time. The Moto X hits the sweet spot with the perfect size and stutter free operation. To me, this is the perfect android phone. All I need is root and a custom launcher. That is available for the AT&T phones I believe? And as you said, ECLIPSE is available for me to flash if I feel like.
Other than that, apps like lightflow and others dont differentiate b/w locked and unlocked BLs, do they?
anirudh412 said:
Could someone please explain the consequences of having a locked BL? Especially wrt to the Moto X? Also, what is this SS that everyone keeps talking about?
TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Straight from the man himself in regards to SafeStrap.
http://rootzwiki.com/topic/104161-recovery-locked-safestrap-recovery-v365-2013-11-13/
Any locked BL users care to give their 0.02 about life with a locked BL? :silly:
anirudh412 said:
Money isnt the issue here. The thing is the Moto X isnt available in my country, but someone is selling their AT&T moto on local ebay. I jumped ship from using android for so many years to an iPhone 5 (my current phone) because I just wanted a phone I could use. Kinda grew tired of flashing ROMS and kernels all the time. The Moto X hits the sweet spot with the perfect size and stutter free operation. To me, this is the perfect android phone. All I need is root and a custom launcher. That is available for the AT&T phones I believe? And as you said, ECLIPSE is available for me to flash if I feel like.
Other than that, apps like lightflow and others dont differentiate b/w locked and unlocked BLs, do they?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
before you pull the trigger make sure the phone will work in your area. IDK about all of the other country phone stuff, but I have seen people posting about what lte bands and radios each different model of the moto x can support. Also, some models you can flash other carriers FW on them, some you can't. And if you buy some models with for some carriers, you can unlock the BL then move it to ATT or whatever service you are using. Like i said, IDK about all of that so that will take some reading and investigating on your part.
I also don't know about lightflow, but basically once you have root, all rooted apps should be able to do what they do. I personally know of nothing that requires an unlocked BL to work (besides flashing roms, kernals, radios, or other stuff). Just root. I'm assuming lightflow is like any other app that requires root. Don't believe any app should ever be changing anything to your bootloader (besides exploits that come in the form of an app).
Im on a lock BL fyi. Had the money for the dev but once root came out for the phone, I decided to go with subsidized. All I wanted was root. And it seems kitkat will have a root exploit made by jcase so im not worried about the future either.
jayboyyyy said:
before you pull the trigger make sure the phone will work in your area. IDK about all of the other country phone stuff, but I have seen people posting about what lte bands and radios each different model of the moto x can support. Also, some models you can flash other carriers FW on them, some you can't. And if you buy some models with for some carriers, you can unlock the BL then move it to ATT or whatever service you are using. Like i said, IDK about all of that so that will take some reading and investigating on your part.
I also don't know about lightflow, but basically once you have root, all rooted apps should be able to do what they do. I personally know of nothing that requires an unlocked BL to work (besides flashing roms, kernals, radios, or other stuff). Just root. I'm assuming lightflow is like any other app that requires root. Don't believe any app should ever be changing anything to your bootloader (besides exploits that come in the form of an app).
I'm on a lock BL fyi. Had the money for the dev but once root came out for the phone, I decided to go with subsidized. All I wanted was root. And it seems kitkat will have a root exploit made by jcase so im not worried about the future either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol, it just occurred to me I wouldn't need lightflow on the MotoX, it doesn't have a notification light
Either way, even if I do have an unlocked BL, flashing AOSP is out of the question as I wouldnt want to miss out on Active Notifs and always listening G Now. Stock ROM with a few tweaks is all I need.
Under ideal situations (read global release of perhaps the best android phone to date), I wouldn't be in this predicament.
jayboyyyy said:
Im on a lock BL fyi. Had the money for the dev but once root came out for the phone, I decided to go with subsidized. All I wanted was root. And it seems kitkat will have a root exploit made by jcase so im not worried about the future either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
May I take the liberty of asking which phones have you used before? I have read a few threads and the general consensus is that this phone is smoother than the 'so-called' flagships like the GS4 and the One. Would you happen to agree? As I said before, I just need a phone that works without lag. I am not a heavy user by any means. Texting, whatsapp and a few occasional games like the Clash of Clans. The GPU is quite capable from what I have heard
anirudh412 said:
May I take the liberty of asking which phones have you used before? I have read a few threads and the general consensus is that this phone is smoother than the 'so-called' flagships like the GS4 and the One. Would you happen to agree? As I said before, I just need a phone that works without lag. I am not a heavy user by any means. Texting, whatsapp and a few occasional games like the Clash of Clans. The GPU is quite capable from what I have heard
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ya the phone is just as quick if not quicker than those flagship phones. while its hardware is not "superior" the code behind everything and the processors set up how they are make it just as snappy as those other phones. I never owned either of the two you described but I have played with them all for enough time. You won't be disappointed with the phone at all. A lot of people think it is the best android phone generally that has been released. I;'m in that boat. Closes equivalent to an apple product (flow , feel, etc) that I have used. Those other phones are great as well. Id go htc one over sg4. I was about to buy those phones but then held out to see when/if the moto x was going to be released. Glad I did. went with this phone over those. The size of the phone is perfect for me. I don't like huge screens that barely fit in my pcoket. Battery life is solid (i dont use this things for 6 hours a day like others, not sure how they generate an income ha). the features are amazing and change how you use your phone. Truely the first phone I have seen that released some cool features that were extremely useful and not just eye candy. Google backing moto is a big plus too, you know that if anyone is going to get good treatment, it will at least have to be moto. take the plunge, no chance you will regret it.
jayboyyyy said:
ya the phone is just as quick if not quicker than those flagship phones. while its hardware is not "superior" the code behind everything and the processors set up how they are make it just as snappy as those other phones. I never owned either of the two you described but I have played with them all for enough time. You won't be disappointed with the phone at all. A lot of people think it is the best android phone generally that has been released. I;'m in that boat. Closes equivalent to an apple product (flow , feel, etc) that I have used. Those other phones are great as well. Id go htc one over sg4. I was about to buy those phones but then held out to see when/if the moto x was going to be released. Glad I did. went with this phone over those. The size of the phone is perfect for me. I don't like huge screens that barely fit in my pcoket. Battery life is solid (i dont use this things for 6 hours a day like others, not sure how they generate an income ha). the features are amazing and change how you use your phone. Truely the first phone I have seen that released some cool features that were extremely useful and not just eye candy. Google backing moto is a big plus too, you know that if anyone is going to get good treatment, it will at least have to be moto. take the plunge, no chance you will regret it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much for taking the time to help me out. Moto X, here I come :highfive:

[Q] Feasibility of root + wireless tether

I just took advantage of the cyber monday promo code and ordered a new Verizon Moto X. I still have a grandfathered unlimited data plan and use wireless tether on my rooted (and ancient) HTC Thunderbolt heavily. I'm a bit concerned that this may not be very straightforward on the Moto X. First, I am a bit confused about root.
Is it possible to attain root on my stock phone without unlocking the bootloader?
Is there any advantage to unlocking the bootloader, outside of loading custom roms?
How limited is my ability to accept OTA updates once rooted?
Also, how well does wireless tether for root work with the Moto X once rooted?
What's the point?
I really was about to buy an S4, but this deal was too good to pass up, and I really like what I've read about this phone. I'm hoping it wasn't a mistake, since I know I can definitely accomplish these things fairly easily with the S4. But I'd rather not have that cheap plastic construction. Having come from an HTC, I like the more robustly constructed phones.
Don't bother answering that last question, it's probably beyond the scope of this board.
1. Did you try searching or reading at all?
2. Forget about the bootloader unless you purchased the developer edition.
3. You don't unless you unroot.
4. Just as well as any other Android phone.
5. You tell us. Everyone has different needs and desires.
6. If rooting the Moto X seems difficult, what makes you sure you can easily do it with the S4?
ggtsu said:
I just took advantage of the cyber monday promo code and ordered a new Verizon Moto X. I still have a grandfathered unlimited data plan and use wireless tether on my rooted (and ancient) HTC Thunderbolt heavily. I'm a bit concerned that this may not be very straightforward on the Moto X. First, I am a bit confused about root.
Is it possible to attain root on my stock phone without unlocking the bootloader?
Is there any advantage to unlocking the bootloader, outside of loading custom roms?
How limited is my ability to accept OTA updates once rooted?
Also, how well does wireless tether for root work with the Moto X once rooted?
What's the point?
I really was about to buy an S4, but this deal was too good to pass up, and I really like what I've read about this phone. I'm hoping it wasn't a mistake, since I know I can definitely accomplish these things fairly easily with the S4. But I'd rather not have that cheap plastic construction. Having come from an HTC, I like the more robustly constructed phones.
Don't bother answering that last question, it's probably beyond the scope of this board.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get root w/o unlock?
Yeah there are root methods that work, but you have to do it from 4.2.2 which ships with the phone before you take the 4.4 OTA update.
Advantage to unlocking?
Easier to root. Even if you lose root from a potential OTA update later you're OK and can easily redo it.
I'm unable to comment on most the rest since I actually got the T-Mobile variant and use it with AT&T and tether without root. The T-mobile variant only does the T-Mobile entitlement check.
In fact I HAVE been reading about it, but I could not find a non-ambiguious answer to my ?'s hence my post. I happened to find plenty of clear answers to my questions on the S4, and have extensively rooted, rommed, and modified my Tbolt over the last few years. So yes, I did think I would be able to easily root the S4.
But thanks for being a bit of a **** about it. :good:
nhizzat said:
1. Did you try searching or reading at all?
2. Forget about the bootloader unless you purchased the developer edition.
3. You don't.
4. Just as well as any other Android phone.
5. You tell us. Everyone has different needs and desires.
6. If rooting the Moto X seems difficult, what makes you sure you can easily do it with the S4?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
superm1 said:
Get root w/o unlock?
Yeah there are root methods that work, but you have to do it from 4.2.2 which ships with the phone before you take the 4.4 OTA update.
Advantage to unlocking?
Easier to root. Even if you lose root from a potential OTA update later you're OK and can easily redo it.
I'm unable to comment on most the rest since I actually got the T-Mobile variant and use it with AT&T and tether without root. The T-mobile variant only does the T-Mobile entitlement check.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw that there is a way of unlocking the bootloader via motorola's site. Is this something that is limited to the dev editions, or do you know if it works with the non-dev versions as well?
Can only unlock boot loader on Dev editions. And to the original poster it is clearly posted with step by step instructions on how to root in the original android development section
Sent from my XT1056 using xda app-developers app
charlie-n said:
Can only unlock boot loader on Dev editions. And to the original poster it is clearly posted with step by step instructions on how to root in the original android development section
Sent from my XT1056 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I did not see those. I has assumed that section contained out of date info or something.
ggtsu said:
In fact I HAVE been reading about it, but I could not find a non-ambiguious answer to my ?'s hence my post. I happened to find plenty of clear answers to my questions on the S4, and have extensively rooted, rommed, and modified my Tbolt over the last few years. So yes, I did think I would be able to easily root the S4.
But thanks for being a bit of a **** about it. :good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have extensively rooted, rommed, and modified your Tbolt, rooting the VZW Moto X shouldn't be the least bit difficult at all. Just use SlapMyMoto because our phones (those purchased with the Cyber Monday deals) shipped with 4.2.2 and the camera update.
Since you feel that I was being a **** for not spoon-feeding you, sorry I'm not sorry. You've been around awhile so I assume you're aware of how Motorola phones on VZW work in terms of their bootloader, especially since you're active in the rooting/romming/modding scene.
ggtsu said:
Thanks, I did not see those. I has assumed that section contained out of date info or something.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well you know what they say about assuming...
ggtsu said:
I saw that there is a way of unlocking the bootloader via motorola's site. Is this something that is limited to the dev editions, or do you know if it works with the non-dev versions as well?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This only works for specific carriers that Moto chooses to offer the unlock services to... and by doing so, they record your device ID, I believe, so your warranty is 100% voided at their end. Nothing comes for free.
If you want a scot-free unlockable bootloader, you can only get that with a Dev Edition MotoX.
Look up SlapMyMoto (at v0.5c) for the skinny on gaining root access to the locked MotoX and being able to OTA to 4.4 here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=48555826
Regarding Wifi Tether, there are two methods that seem to work. This is what I'm using for now: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=48520965&postcount=42
There is also discussion about the Entitlement override .apk here, but I haven't tried this one yet: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2443562
Good luck.
scootle74 said:
This only works for specific carriers that Moto chooses to offer the unlock services to... and by doing so, they record your device ID, I believe, so your warranty is 100% voided at their end. Nothing comes for free.
If you want a scot-free unlockable bootloader, you can only get that with a Dev Edition MotoX.
Look up SlapMyMoto (at v0.5c) for the skinny on gaining root access to the locked MotoX and being able to OTA to 4.4 here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=48555826
Regarding Wifi Tether, there are two methods that seem to work. This is what I'm using for now: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=48520965&postcount=42
There is also discussion about the Entitlement override .apk here, but I haven't tried this one yet: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2443562
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot, this is a helpful list. I saw the wifi tether method you posted there before, but I am interested in giving the Entitlement override a try. I just received my phone today and noticed I'm already at 4.4. Will the SlapMyMoto technique work for me, or is that only for people that are starting from 4.2? It's not totally clear in that thread.
ggtsu said:
Thanks a lot, this is a helpful list. I saw the wifi tether method you posted there before, but I am interested in giving the Entitlement override a try. I just received my phone today and noticed I'm already at 4.4. Will the SlapMyMoto technique work for me, or is that only for people that are starting from 4.2? It's not totally clear in that thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
80 pages makes a thread hard to read, the main post is also somewhat sparse on details.
You should be able to revert back to 4.2.2 using RSD Lite.
This thread points out most of the other useful threads (including one on how to flash back to 4.2.2 using RSD Lite)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2556400
The site linked to get the 4.2.2 rom is down, you can get it here.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2568334
ggtsu said:
Thanks a lot, this is a helpful list. I saw the wifi tether method you posted there before, but I am interested in giving the Entitlement override a try. I just received my phone today and noticed I'm already at 4.4. Will the SlapMyMoto technique work for me, or is that only for people that are starting from 4.2? It's not totally clear in that thread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will use RSDLite, as mentioned, to revert to OEM 4.2.2 with the camera-patched image that you'd use for SlapMyMoto in the first place. See this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2446515
Roll back your phone (which pretty much wipes it) to 4.2.2 and start the SlapMyMoto process from there. I made the same mistake of accepting the 4.4 OTA before realizing my mistake.
Good luck!
Ran into an issue with connecting to adb, unfortunately pretty early on. Posted it in the appropriate thread, if anyone would like to chime in.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=48614126#post48614126
Thanks!

Can anyone explain how to downgrade from 4.4.2 to 4.2.2?

I am getting conflicting info and do not want to brick my phone. Here's my detail:
AT&T Moto X with Locked Bootloader, running the latest OTA 4.4.2. I'd like to root my Moto X. Is this even possible? If so, I know I have to downgrade to 4.2.2 first, but how? What things I should watch out for? This is my daily driver so I'd like to NOT brick it. Thanks in advance.
DO NOT DOWNGRADE FROM 4.4.2 to anything!!!!
Changes to the bootloader, gpt.bin and other things prevent successful downgrading. You could either brick or set yourself up for a brick later if you try and downgrade
as for rooting 4.4.2....
No. There is currently no way to root an X that has a locked bootloader and 4.4.2. That includes Verizon, ATT, and others.
This is covered in many threads already, including some recently started ones.
Here are some I found quickly just by scrolling through the thread listing in this Q&A section....
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/root-verizon-4-4-2-t2727627
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/general/help-moto-x-t2726909
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/root-4-4-2-t2723553
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/root-4-4-2-locked-bootloader-t2719818
http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/4-4-2-root-method-t2711789 (and -> http://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-x/moto-x-qa/real-t2710834 )
Thanks, kidjoe!
I probably read at least one of the threads you posted above, but it probably didn't register a warning with me. Anyway, it's now crystal clear that I shouldn't root my moto x at this point.
This should be a sticky.
The reason why there are so many new recent threads about the downgrade and rooting questions is because there are many threads telling people how to downgrade and root their moto x. Buried within the threads and pages of postings, you can find a warning or two. There should be a sticky about this issue, not buried and hard to find, right there front and center. But, I am not holding my breath.
there actually was a big long thread discussing it... It disappeared, but I wasn't following it closely enough to know why..
Most of the root threads do have comments near their ends (the most recent parts) that they don't work on 4.4.2, etc.. even if they don't contain warnings on downgrading.
But you are right... a sticky thread warning not to downgrade is a good idea.
KidJoe said:
there actually was a big long thread discussing it... It disappeared, but I wasn't following it closely enough to know why..
Most of the root threads do have comments near their ends (the most recent parts) that they don't work on 4.4.2, etc.. even if they don't contain warnings on downgrading.
But you are right... a sticky thread warning not to downgrade is a good idea.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was removed by request of the opening poster cause it became a giant argument thread.....one side saying DON'T downgrade....and the other side saying you can downgrade if you do this that and the other thing. Lol
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....
to be on the safe side I wouldn't downgrade anything unless you've exhausted all resources an that more than 10-20 real individuals actually successfully downgraded
Sent from my Moto X using xda app-developers app
burntengel said:
to be on the safe side I wouldn't downgrade anything unless you've exhausted all resources an that more than 10-20 real individuals actually successfully downgraded
Sent from my Moto X using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe I'm too cautious, but the only way I'd ever think of trying to downgrade....is if I had $350 to burn....just in case. Lol.
Sent from my N5, N7, Moto X, G Tab 3 or S2.....

[Q] New RW customer, from 10 yrs of T-Mobile. Source of 4.2.2 RW Moto X??

Hey guys,
I just moved apartments this past weekend and I have 0 service in my new place; not even 1 bar. I've been a T-Mobile customer of 10 years and feel sad that I'm going to have to part ways. They said there's nothing they can do and they have no signal boosters in stock.
Got me thinking, I've been overpaying bigtime for this unlimited plan. Yes, I've raped them on data, but now that my life is pretty structured and on WiFi most of the time, I think I can make the RW plan work.
I thought about utilizing a VoIP/Google Voice solution but Republic seems more seamless. Anyways, I just placed and order for a new Moto X and will try out the 30 day trial.
Problem is, I cannot live without root and tweaking my phone. The tethered root is not gonna work for me, so I was thinking that while I'm on the trial, I can test out the service, and in the meantime source a Moto X that's on 4.2.2. That way, if I want to stay with RW I can just cancel the trial, return the phone, get the one with 4.2.2, and re-sign up.
Does anyone know a source of Moto Xs on 4.2.2? Doesn't have to be new.
Poi25 said:
Hey guys,
I just moved apartments this past weekend and I have 0 service in my new place; not even 1 bar. I've been a T-Mobile customer of 10 years and feel sad that I'm going to have to part ways. They said there's nothing they can do and they have no signal boosters in stock.
Got me thinking, I've been overpaying bigtime for this unlimited plan. Yes, I've raped them on data, but now that my life is pretty structured and on WiFi most of the time, I think I can make the RW plan work.
I thought about utilizing a VoIP/Google Voice solution but Republic seems more seamless. Anyways, I just placed and order for a new Moto X and will try out the 30 day trial.
Problem is, I cannot live without root and tweaking my phone. The tethered root is not gonna work for me, so I was thinking that while I'm on the trial, I can test out the service, and in the meantime source a Moto X that's on 4.2.2. That way, if I want to stay with RW I can just cancel the trial, return the phone, get the one with 4.2.2, and re-sign up.
Does anyone know a source of Moto Xs on 4.2.2? Doesn't have to be new.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, RW will only activate Republic Wireless Moto X's. It can't be just any old X. You will be hard-pressed to find a used RW phone that is still on 4.2.2.
Second, if you ordered from RW directly, there is a good chance the phone you will get is still on 4.2.2. If you ordered from MotoMaker, it will almost certainly be on 4.4.2 already.
Third, for $45 you can [probably] unlock your bootloader! I haven't seen a single RW customer not get an unlock code yet. (See the "China Middleman Back??" thread in General for more details). I got both my RW Moto X's unlocked through the middleman.
Any more questions? BTW, I would have given you a $20 coupon if you posted before you ordered... And yeah, I love their service.
samwathegreat said:
First, RW will only activate Republic Wireless Moto X's. It can't be just any old X. You will be hard-pressed to find a used RW phone that is still on 4.2.2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I know.
samwathegreat said:
Second, if you ordered from RW directly, there is a good chance the phone you will get is still on 4.2.2. If you ordered from MotoMaker, it will almost certainly be on 4.4.2 already.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would be amazing.
samwathegreat said:
Third, for $45 you can [probably] unlock your bootloader! I haven't seen a single RW customer not get an unlock code yet. (See the "China Middleman Back??" thread in General for more details). I got both my RW Moto X's unlocked through the middleman.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, come to think of it, if I get a phone that can have full root with write enabled, what would unlocking the bootloader give me over and beyond what I need? I'll be sticking to stock ROM anyways. Wouldn't be flashing any custom ROMs or anything unless they retain the WiFi calling aspect, which is why I'm switching to RW to begin with.
samwathegreat said:
BTW, I would have given you a $20 coupon if you posted before you ordered
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
lol I found a random guy's referral code on Reddit, I'm sure he's happy.
My original question is a preemptive information gathering one. I'm just wondering, if the Moto X I receive is 4.4.2 or above, where I could go about finding one with 4.4 or below.
One more quick random question: reading the different root methods for each version, it says 4.4 can be downgraded to 4.2.2 post camera update, but not pre. Why would anyone want to go pre-camera update anyways, didn't that fix camera issues?
Poi25 said:
Well, come to think of it, if I get a phone that can have full root with write enabled, what would unlocking the bootloader give me over and beyond what I need? I'll be sticking to stock ROM anyways. Wouldn't be flashing any custom ROMs or anything unless they retain the WiFi calling aspect, which is why I'm switching to RW to begin with.
My original question is a preemptive information gathering one. I'm just wondering, if the Moto X I receive is 4.4.2 or above, where I could go about finding one with 4.4 or below.
One more quick random question: reading the different root methods for each version, it says 4.4 can be downgraded to 4.2.2 post camera update, but not pre. Why would anyone want to go pre-camera update anyways, didn't that fix camera issues?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, first, bootloader-unlocking is far superior to the root/wp-off exploit. If you ever want to update past 4.4, you have to use safestrap, which is a big hack. Great for those who have no other options, but complicated and tricky. And your bootloader and partition table REMAIN on 4.4. This may cause problems with future updates (4.4.4 +?). We just don't know what the future holds.
With your bootloader unlocked, you have permanent ability to root, no matter what android version you are running. You can update to the latest version with ease, and don't have to worry about someone creating a new safestrap-compatible ROM that will work for your device.
If you didn't already know, Hashcode is dropping support for safestrap soon, so it may end up being a thing of the past...
Yes, 4.4 can only be downgraded to 4.2.2 post-camera - otherwise you will brick. If you were on the original 4.2.2, you could use jcase's "PwnMyMoto" exploit which is very easy, and disables write-protect and roots.
4.2.2 Post-camera can only use "RockMyMoto" which is much more complicated and involved, and also requires "MotoWpNoMo" to disable WP before you can use it.
Again, these exploits are complicated and tricky. With your bootloader unlocked, even on the latest android version, you simply flash TWRP, which roots for you. Done. And no worries about future updates patching the previous exploits. Very clean, and easy.
samwathegreat said:
Again, these exploits are complicated and tricky. With your bootloader unlocked, even on the latest android version, you simply flash TWRP, which roots for you. Done. And no worries about future updates patching the previous exploits. Very clean, and easy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair enough. So I'm guessing you just flash the new ROM (for updates) through TWRP and then just flash SuperSU for root?
I'm totally new to this device, just started researching it today, and unsure how the switchis ggoing to be. I'm literally going from the biggest device out there (6.4" Xperia Z Ultra) to the 4.7" Moto X lol.
Poi25 said:
Fair enough. So I'm guessing you just flash the new ROM (for updates) through TWRP and then just flash SuperSU for root?
I'm totally new to this device, just started researching it today, and unsure how the switchis ggoing to be. I'm literally going from the biggest device out there (6.4" Xperia Z Ultra) to the 4.7" Moto X lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, you have to have stock recovery for OTAs. I suggest you read up on some of the guides for unlocked users...don't want to spend a bunch of time detailing what is already in multiple guides. See the "One Stop shop" rooting thread for specifics.
Here's the short version: when a new OTA update is available, you use fastboot to flash stock recovery back on. Then you take the update. Afterwards, you can flash TWRP back on and re-root. You only need to do this for updates. (This is for UNLOCKED devices -- safestrap is much more complicated and again, it may lose support in the near future. I highly suggest getting unlocked if you can.)
IMO, the Moto X is the perfect size. I couldn't comfortably fit any larger of a phone in my pocket...and since I don't carry a big 'purse' or similar LOL, I don't want some massive device. I really dislike this new trend for 'phablets'. Way too big for my liking.
Anyways, good luck. Hope you enjoy RW.
samwathegreat said:
I suggest you read up on some of the guides for unlocked users...don't want to spend a bunch of time detailing what is already in multiple guides. See the "One Stop shop" rooting thread for specifics.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to say first, thank you for your help. Great introduction to Moto X community.
I read up on the bootloader unlocking and root in the One Stop Shop thread. Unless I'm missing something, I will be unable to unlock the bootloader on the RW. At least that's what I got from the thread. RW Moto X is not listed as an unlockable bootloader.
Poi25 said:
Just wanted to say first, thank you for your help. Great introduction to Moto X community.
I read up on the bootloader unlocking and root in the One Stop Shop thread. Unless I'm missing something, I will be unable to unlock the bootloader on the RW. At least that's what I got from the thread. RW Moto X is not listed as an unlockable bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are welcome....but you are missing something. Specifically my 2nd post:
samwathegreat said:
Third, for $45 you can [probably] unlock your bootloader! I haven't seen a single RW customer not get an unlock code yet. (See the "China Middleman Back??" thread in General for more details). I got both my RW Moto X's unlocked through the middleman.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See that thread for details....some dude in China is selling unlock codes. They work!!! All the details are in that thread...but basically you paypal him $45 (and put your IMEI and email in the notes) and he sends you an unlock code. If he doesn't have your code, you get refunded.
samwathegreat said:
You are welcome....but you are missing something. Specifically my 2nd post:
See that thread for details....some dude in China is selling unlock codes. They work!!! All the details are in that thread...but basically you paypal him $45 (and put your IMEI and email in the notes) and he sends you an unlock code. If he doesn't have your code, you get refunded.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just received the RW MotoX yesterday, it is on 4.2.2 which is nice. However, if I do end up staying with RW I'll probably try and source one that's cheaper and return this one. I wonder if They'll offer the X+1 which seems a bit more enticing to me.
First impressions: Boy this thing is small (4.7" compared to 6.4" Xperia Z Ultra). I don't know if I'll be able to get over that size difference, but I will use this for a few weeks and see how I feel. I actually get Sprint reception in my apartment which I was surprised about. I'm impressed so far with the WiFi calling feature. A lot more seamless and better quality than VoIP through native android dialer using an Anveo DID.
I don't see a point in unlocking the bootloader on this thing if I'll probably return it (would wait to spend that $45 on the other if I can source one), but I'd love to tinker with this and set things up to my liking. Is there a way for me to root/update with the ability to return this to bone stock to return to RW? Or must I do nothing to this device?
Poi25 said:
Just received the RW MotoX yesterday, it is on 4.2.2 which is nice. However, if I do end up staying with RW I'll probably try and source one that's cheaper and return this one. I wonder if They'll offer the X+1 which seems a bit more enticing to me.
First impressions: Boy this thing is small (4.7" compared to 6.4" Xperia Z Ultra). I don't know if I'll be able to get over that size difference, but I will use this for a few weeks and see how I feel. I actually get Sprint reception in my apartment which I was surprised about. I'm impressed so far with the WiFi calling feature. A lot more seamless and better quality than VoIP through native android dialer using an Anveo DID.
I don't see a point in unlocking the bootloader on this thing if I'll probably return it (would wait to spend that $45 on the other if I can source one), but I'd love to tinker with this and set things up to my liking. Is there a way for me to root/update with the ability to return this to bone stock to return to RW? Or must I do nothing to this device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well you won't find one for that much cheaper. They are selling used for ~$200 on Swappa and slightly higher on eBay. The fact that you got one on 4.2.2 is excellent - you probably won't find a used one that's not already on 4.4.2. This means that you could follow the safestrap guide to disable write-protect and use the safestrap-compatible 4.4.2 ROM which is the next best thing to having an unlocked BL. Once updated to 4.4.2, you can kiss the possibility of using safestrap goodbye...
Additionally if you return it, you are out shipping costs (~$10), and you will lose your $20 referral credit. So at most you will get $70 for all of your troubles and have to deal with all the hassle along with it. Not to mention getting a USED phone with no warranty as opposed to the full 1YR warranty you got with your new device.
I agree it is small and I just LOVE it. I hate the "phablet" fad that is going on. Anything bigger than the X, I can't fit in my pants pocket comfortably. And I'm a dude....so I don't carry a purse to put some massive phone in.
Until you decide whether or not you are going to keep it, you can enjoy limited root access via "TowelPieRoot" here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...ieroot-motorola-devices-t2825059/post54850209
(Remember to "THANK" @iKrYpToNiTe for his awesome work combining TR and PIE for an effective temp-root solution.) Keep in mind this solution does NOT disable write protect, so DON'T update past 4.2.2 if there is any possibility that you will keep the device. If you decide to keep it, you will HAVE to be on 4.2.2 to disable WP and gain persistent root and write access. Of course, don't do the safestrap procedures unless you decide to keep it.
No idea if they will offer the X+1...we might find out in September. I'm sticking with the original X. I don't like big phones....I just don't get the appeal. To each their own...
Have fun playing with it.
samwathegreat said:
Well you won't find one for that much cheaper. They are selling used for ~$200 on Swappa and slightly higher on eBay. The fact that you got one on 4.2.2 is excellent - you probably won't find a used one that's not already on 4.4.2. This means that you could follow the safestrap guide to disable write-protect and use the safestrap-compatible 4.4.2 ROM which is the next best thing to having an unlocked BL. Once updated to 4.4.2, you can kiss the possibility of using safestrap goodbye...
Additionally if you return it, you are out shipping costs (~$10), and you will lose your $20 referral credit. So at most you will get $70 for all of your troubles and have to deal with all the hassle along with it. Not to mention getting a USED phone with no warranty as opposed to the full 1YR warranty you got with your new device.
I agree it is small and I just LOVE it. I hate the "phablet" fad that is going on. Anything bigger than the X, I can't fit in my pants pocket comfortably. And I'm a dude....so I don't carry a purse to put some massive phone in.
Until you decide whether or not you are going to keep it, you can enjoy limited root access via "TowelPieRoot" here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...ieroot-motorola-devices-t2825059/post54850209
(Remember to "THANK" @iKrYpToNiTe for his awesome work combining TR and PIE for an effective temp-root solution.) Keep in mind this solution does NOT disable write protect, so DON'T update past 4.2.2 if there is any possibility that you will keep the device. If you decide to keep it, you will HAVE to be on 4.2.2 to disable WP and gain persistent root and write access. Of course, don't do the safestrap procedures unless you decide to keep it.
No idea if they will offer the X+1...we might find out in September. I'm sticking with the original X. I don't like big phones....I just don't get the appeal. To each their own...
Have fun playing with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good points, will keep that in mind. Well if I decide to keep the device, I'd like to forgo the safestrap methods altogether and unlock the BL via the middleman. I can deal with having write protection for a few weeks, as I'll still be able to install Xposed and all the root apps, correct?
You mentioned safestrap, but I was under the impression I could skip that completely with BL unlock. Are you saying that the temp root solution will require me to use safestrap in the future?
Poi25 said:
Good points, will keep that in mind. Well if I decide to keep the device, I'd like to forgo the safestrap methods altogether and unlock the BL via the middleman. I can deal with having write protection for a few weeks, as I'll still be able to install Xposed and all the root apps, correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will have serious problems trying to get Xposed to work without disabling WP. If you are able to use it, it will be lost upon reboot and you'll have to get it working again. It's complicated and messy trying to get Xposed working on a temp-root.
Most other root apps will work fine with TowelPieRoot. Ad-away will not as it requires write access to /system.
Poi25 said:
You mentioned safestrap, but I was under the impression I could skip that completely with BL unlock. Are you saying that the temp root solution will require me to use safestrap in the future?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Um..no. If you unlock via middleman, none of this is relevant. You don't need safestrap or any other exploit. You device will essentially be an unofficial "DEV" edition.
Safestrap is an alternative for people who are not unlocked. It provides most of the benefits of a full unlock, but you MUST have never updated to 4.4.2 or above or you cannot use it as it has been patched.
If you plan to unlock, don't worry about updating or safestrap. Thing is....the middleman has failed to get codes for some devices, so better to play it safe and stay on 4.2.2 until AFTER you get a code from him and unlock.
Regardless of what you do, the temp-root solution won't affect any of it. Safe to use in the meantime - until you make your final decisions.
samwathegreat said:
Regardless of what you do, the temp-root solution won't affect any of it. Safe to use in the meantime - until you make your final decisions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great, that's what I wanted to know, and was planning on doing that (staying on 4.2.2 until I decide what to do). I disabled automatic update immediately and keep postponing update requests every 24 hours. Wish there was a way to remove the update prompt altogether.
Poi25 said:
Great, that's what I wanted to know, and was planning on doing that (staying on 4.2.2 until I decide what to do). I disabled automatic update immediately and keep postponing update requests every 24 hours. Wish there was a way to remove the update prompt altogether.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is....if you have purchased Titanium Backup, install it. Use TowelPieRoot to root, and then run Titanium Backup and "FREEZE" "MotorolaOTA". The paid version of TiBu is required to freeze apps.
No more update notifications. And if you get a code from the middleman in the future...well unlocking resets everything to factory defaults so you can update then.
samwathegreat said:
Until you decide whether or not you are going to keep it, you can enjoy limited root access via "TowelPieRoot" here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/mot...ieroot-motorola-devices-t2825059/post54850209
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesnt work.
Says Root Achieved within TowelRoot but SuperSU gives me error that binary cannot be installed amd TiBu gives me error regarding root access.
Poi25 said:
Doesnt work.
Says Root Achieved within TowelRoot but SuperSU gives me error that binary cannot be installed amd TiBu gives me error regarding root access.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's your problem. You don't use SuperSU with temp roots. Reboot, use TPR, and tibu should work without issue. Once don't this on several phones.. I know it works. Don't install SuperSU.
samwathegreat said:
That's your problem. You don't use SuperSU with temp roots. Reboot, use TPR, and tibu should work without issue. Once don't this on several phones.. I know it works. Don't install SuperSU.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Negative. I only installed SuperSU after TiBu gave me the error. uninstalled both, reinstalled TPR, got root confirm, rebooted, and TiBu still saying:
sorry I could not acquire root privileges
Poi25 said:
Negative. I only installed SuperSU after TiBu gave me the error. uninstalled both, reinstalled TPR, got root confirm, rebooted, and TiBu still saying:
sorry I could not acquire root privileges
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Strange. The problem then could be that you are on 4.2.2.
TPR is for 4.4+
I've only used it on 4.4.2 on which it works flawlessly. That's my best guess.
samwathegreat said:
Strange. The problem then could be that you are on 4.2.2.
TPR is for 4.4+
I've only used it on 4.4.2 on which it works flawlessly. That's my best guess.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any other options? Or you think I should just deal with it for a few weeks until I make my decision?
Poi25 said:
Any other options? Or you think I should just deal with it for a few weeks until I make my decision?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You could use pwnmymoto. Technically it will void your warranty but as long as you do a full return to stock I doubt they could tell.

Confused - Root and Revert back to 5.0.2

I am not having an easy time finding a clear cut way to root my phone. I know that since 5.1.1 came out like 2-3 weeks ago that I need to be on 5.0.2. So I need to know how to revert back to that. And then I also know that you need to do some weird **** from what I am used to to just simply root our phones. Something with the OE2 to OF3 and some other things related to that. Really weird to me when I am used to more or less pressing a button and I am rooted...... This being said I need to know how to root my phone too. And if it is possible to root 5.1.1 then those instructions would be preferred(saying it is stable/tested/etc.
I ultimately want to be able to use either XtreStoLite ROMs. Preferably the Odex Pure Edition though but from what I've read when you do the 5.0.2 version there was some call audio problems...which is no good for a phone lol.
Last phone I really tried to do **** with was the HTC Aria. Had an S3 for awhile but didn't feel like doing anything with it since it was so old at the time I received it(almost 2 years ago now)
/startrant
I feel like XDA is way more confusing than it used to be. Either that or the community for the S6 isn't the best from other phones I've used, personally. This new UI for XDA is also weird to me as well(doubt it is very new though).
Used to seeing a clear cut:
How To Root thread(s)
List of Custom Roms thread(s)
other useful threads that make going around the phones forum so much easier than having to use the search engine.
it definitely doesn't help that more or less all other versions of the phone work with each other easily vs ATT being ****ing douchebags and can't even just release the current OS right when literally every other company does.
Conclusion.... **** ATT... Long ago I wanted to go to verizon but wasn't in a position to but figured at this point in time(3-4 years later, maybe more) that things might have changed. **** ATT
/endrant
arokace said:
<lots of complaining>
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no way to root your phone, the bootloader is signed we don't have the keys.
In addition it would behoove you greatly if you learned to both search and to be knowledgeable as to what your 'one click' solutions do. Without knowing what your clicking you'll find it hard to fix when things go wrong.
In short though your SoL here, unless your phone is on an exceptionally early build you can't root, and I doubt it's on that early of a build unless you made an effort to keep it from updating and bought the phone close to launch.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk
OP asked about reverting to 5.0.2, so it's pretty safe to assume he's on 5.1.1.
OP - at this point, as posted above, all you can do is wait and hope. There is no way to revert to a rootable build from 5.1.1, nor root 5.1.1, on an ATT branded device, at this time. If you are committed to wanting root and custom ROMs, don't buy any AT&T or VZW branded devices, and don't buy devices that are running anything other than mainstream processors. Nexus is your friend. Or revert back to your Aria - I'm still using mine, running CM11, as a media player.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk
I know 5.1.1 can't be rooted but I thought 5.0.2 can be. But from the sounds of it once I have 5.1.1 installed then my bootloader is changed? And reverting back doesn't change the loader? Oh, after reading the last part of the 1st reply. It sounds like all those people that say they've rooted there 5.0.2 version was just because they purchased at launch?
As for understanding the 'one click' solutions. At the times I did know what they did. The forums for the phone(s) I was using at the time were a lot more neat and straightforward(this is apparently one word, didn't know...) to understand. Like I said, this new layout of XDA(it is new to me even if it might be 2 years old or something) isn't as nice/useful personally. And as for searching, I do but once again the searches are different than how other forums do searches. Or maybe it is just the cluttered feeling I get from the S6 forums maybe. Not sure.
P.S.(_Dennis_) No **** it is a lot of complaining...granted I basically got the phone for free because of how AT&T does there plans and ****...this still makes me hate AT&T even more than I used to...at least with my older phones there was hope for someone to make ROMs/Roots/etc for the phone, just took longer because AT&T rides the short bus... So yes I will complain. But I still genuinely had questions I wanted answers. I know you had to read what I wrote but you didn't take it in I guess. Because the only way I would have some of that info is if I was searching. I just didn't know about only the launch models basically can be rooted and no others. Which is why I was asking about reverting to 5.0.2
I will thank you both for actually posting and answering my questions though. Versus in the normal S6 forum people just completely ignored me. So I do appreciate you guys answering me.

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