Database Develop

[Q] How to perform OTA 4.2 update to a rooted Nexus 7?

I am very sorry for what is certainly a stupid question, but if it is any consolation I DID search and read through threads until my head hurt prior to posting.
1) What is the best way to apply the new OTA 4.2 update for those with rooted Nexus 7 tablet.
With the 4.1.2 update, I blindly installed the OTA update when prompted and didnt realize there was a problem until i tried to access my stickmount USB drive. Luckily the nexus 7 was still unlocked so I didn't need to wipe everything. All i did was re-root it using Nexus Root Toolkit v. 1.5.4. and was back up and running. Is this going to be the same experience with the 4.2 update?
I have installed Voodoo OTA Root keeper v2.0.3 - is this a better route for upgrade instead of re-rooting via the Nexus Toolkit? And if so, how should I use it (do know much about the app).?
2) Is stickmount going to work? And if not, is there a good working alternative for streaming mkv h264 movies to MXPlayer (or other player)?
The main reason I rooted was to access a USB drive for playing movies, TV shows while traveling. We are heading off to Cabo for Thanksgiving and definitely want to be able to access and play movies from my stickmount'ed usb drive. Any suggestions ? Should I just wait to update - and if so is there any way to get the Nexus to stop prompting to install the update all the time?
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to have pity on me...

hinsdale1 said:
I am very sorry for what is certainly a stupid question, but if it is any consolation I DID search and read through threads until my head hurt prior to posting.
1) What is the best way to apply the new 4.2 update for those with rooted Nexus 7 tablet.
With the 4.1.2 update, I blindly installed the OTA update when prompted and didnt realize there was a problem until i tried to access my stickmount USB drive. Luckily the nexus 7 was still unlocked so I didn't need to wipe everything. All i did was re-root it using Nexus Root Toolkit v. 1.5.4. and was back up and running. Is this going to be the same experience with the 4.2 update?
I have installed Voodoo OTA Root keeper v2.0.3 - is this a better route for upgrade instead of re-rooting via the Nexus Toolkit? And if so, how should I use it (do know much about the app).?
2) Is stickmount going to work?
The main reason I rooted was to access a USB drive for playing movies, TV shows while traveling. We are heading off to Cabo for Thanksgiving and definitely want to be able to access and play movies from my stickmount'ed usb drive. Any suggestions ? Should I just wait to update - and if so is there any way to get the Nexus to stop prompting to install the update all the time?
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to have pity on me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) I just downloaded the OTA 4.2 .zip, copied it to my N7, ran CWM and flashed it. When it asked about keeping recovery and keeping root, I said "yes" and it worked without a problem!
2) Works for me.

volarchico said:
1) I just downloaded the OTA 4.2 .zip, copied it to my N7, ran CWM and flashed it. When it asked about keeping recovery and keeping root, I said "yes" and it worked without a problem!
2) Works for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry these answers need to be dumb'd down for me
1) If i already have the update downloaded via OTA trying to install itself, is it really easier/necessary to locate the zip you mention, copy it to the N7 (not sure where to copy) and run CWM (not sure what that is or where i get it or how to install it). Is there an easier way to accomplish the update? Perhaps setting the Voodoo Rootkeeper to preserve the root or temporarily unroot.. then just install the downloaded OTA update and then return the root? Or just installing the update and then running the re-root using the Nexus Toolkit (like I did with the 4.1.2 update)?
2) I would like to know more about how you avoided this issue described in this thread here with stickmount not functioning with v4.2 because of the new mulituser framework that causes it no longer to see files in the mounted folders.
Thanks for your help and to anyone else that chimes in... any help is appreciated. Again sorry for being stupid.

hinsdale1 said:
Sorry these answers need to be dumb'd down for me
1) If i already have the update downloaded via OTA trying to install itself, is it really easier/necessary to locate the zip you mention, copy it to the N7 (not sure where to copy) and run CWM (not sure what that is or where i get it or how to install it). Is there an easier way to accomplish the update? Perhaps setting the Voodoo Rootkeeper to preserve the root or temporarily unroot.. then just install the downloaded OTA update and then return the root? Or just installing the update and then running the re-root using the Nexus Toolkit (like I did with the 4.1.2 update)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i tried with OTArootkeeper app. but it don't update.... at restart for installing, it gave a black screen with android in the middle, with a RED icon inside it...... then it restart and 4.1.2 is always there

Perhaps these questions are so rudimentary that they hardly seem worth bothering with - but for some of us, these hacks and the info being thrown around in here are pretty confusing at times. I would be very grateful to anyone with some insight willing to help out?.

i found that this could be a problem with recovery mode... infact if i tr y to restart in recovery, it gave the same error...
i rooted with toolbox, and i'm thinking that it could have removed my recovery... now i'd like to try to recover the stock recovery with the same tool... but i'm not sure about that.

We seem to have veered off topic a bit here (at least for me)... so let me re-post the questions and beg again for mercy from any kind soles who can offer some advice?
1) What is the best way to apply the new OTA 4.2 update for those with rooted Nexus 7 tablet?
With the 4.1.2 update, I blindly installed the OTA update when prompted and didnt realize there was a problem until i tried to access my stickmount USB drive. Luckily the nexus 7 was still unlocked so I didn't need to wipe everything. All i did was re-root it using Nexus Root Toolkit v. 1.5.4. and was back up and running. Is this going to be the same experience with the 4.2 update?
I have installed Voodoo OTA Root keeper v2.0.3 - is this a better route for upgrade instead of re-rooting via the Nexus Toolkit? And if so, how should I use it (do know much about the app).?
2) Is stickmount going to work? And if not, is there a good working alternative for streaming mkv h264 movies to MXPlayer (or other player)?
The main reason I rooted was to access a USB drive for playing movies, TV shows while traveling. We are heading off to Cabo for Thanksgiving and definitely want to be able to access and play movies from my stickmount'ed usb drive. Any suggestions ? Should I just wait to update - and if so is there any way to get the Nexus to stop prompting to install the update all the time?
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to have pity on me...

Bueller...... Bueller...... Bueller?

Hi! Last month I did the 4.1.2 OTA update. I was rooted but on stock. It updated with no problems. I used Voodoo OTA rootkeeper, restored the root, and either renistalled super su, or just updated the binary. Can't remember.....But I did lose my custom recovery. Didn't realize it till tonite when I went to do the 4.2 update.
So to your question. I forced the OTA 4.2 update. And it downloaded. I made sure voodoo rootkeeper was set to save the root. Then let it install. It rebooted. I opened voodoo, restored root, was asked to update super su binary, accepted. Still not rooted till I rebooted.
So far I have root, and am on 4.2 JB. So my goal was to get my custom recovery back on. Install goo manager from market. Open it, go to the settings button top right, it will give you the choice to install open recovery script. TWRP- Then it will ask you twice are you sure you want to do this and reboot? Say yes. Mine did not reboot and it looked like it did nothing. So, I flipped into recovery and Teamwinn recovery was installed. I made a backup, and rebooted.
Good luck!

Thanks for your help. Glad to hear that the OTA 4.2 update should go relatively painlessly (keeping root using voodoo rootkeeper). If you have a minute, I would be grateful if you can just briefly confirm, describe specifically what I need to be checking/configuring in Voodooo (not very familiar with the app) prior to initiating the OS update, I would feel a little more secure before pulling the trigger.
It appears that many apps are still catching up with their own updates, including apparently stickmount (the reason I rooted) to handle the new 4.2 framework so I am thinking best to hold off until after thanksgiving vacation before applying the update.
Thanks again.

hinsdale1 said:
Thanks for your help. Glad to hear that the OTA 4.2 update should go relatively painlessly (keeping root using voodoo rootkeeper). If you have a minute, I would be grateful if you can just briefly confirm, describe specifically what I need to be checking/configuring in Voodooo (not very familiar with the app) prior to initiating the OS update, I would feel a little more secure before pulling the trigger.
It appears that many apps are still catching up with their own updates, including apparently stickmount (the reason I rooted) to handle the new 4.2 framework so I am thinking best to hold off until after thanksgiving vacation before applying the update.
Thanks again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi hinsdale,
Have you tried updating to 4.2 yet? Also i heard that if you update SuperSU to version 0.98 the latest version it could cause issues and you will have to reflash the device.
Thanks,
JBIRD
Thanks,
JBIRD

4.2 OTA already loaded, lost root
Hi, I have learned the hard way not to do the OTA upgrade. I just let the 4.2 OTA download when asked to. Now I lost my root that I had on my Nexus7 with 4.1.2. Still unlocked though. What can I do now to root it again and not lose all my apps and data?
I'm a newbie, so please remember that when responding. Thanks.

Hi hinsdale! I am not a techie- I just learn as I go and read, read, read.
So, my voodoo app has 4 checks in the boxes. I seem to remember only 3 boxes checked when I did the update, but I'm not sure. It would make sense that all are checked.
After I updated, I opened the voodoo app first, and there is a box that says restore root. Then it asked if I wanted to update the su binary. Did that, still not rooted according to Tit. BU. Rebooted, then I was rooted. Good luck with your update.
I'm sorry I can't tell you how to run the initial save root on voodoo. I did it a while ago and don't remember, but it was not hard. Very easy.. Just make sure you Read, re- read, and read again before you do any modifications to your tablet. Know the possible bad outcomes, and be prepared to trouble shoot. This site is very good about helping you out if things go wrong. That's why it's a very good idea to be aware of the possible bad outcomes. The only way to know is to READ-READ=READ!
Did I mention READ??? lol. That's how I figure stuff out. If you read about others mistakes, you can avoid them. I also wait a day or 2 to see how it goes for others before I attempt modifications. That includes new roms. You never know what goes wrong until someone is the guinea pig! I am not techie enough to be the guinea pig!

paulie7880 said:
Hi, I have learned the hard way not to do the OTA upgrade. I just let the 4.2 OTA download when asked to. Now I lost my root that I had on my Nexus7 with 4.1.2. Still unlocked though. What can I do now to root it again and not lose all my apps and data?
I'm a newbie, so please remember that when responding. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
same thing here...I tried to use TWRM to flash SU but it seems that after going into recovery using TWRM I can't see any any file or folder on my SD except 3 folders???? Can someone please help us....

YOu will need to search the best way to root again.
How did you root initially?? You may have to do it that way again. Just make sure the method is compatible with 4.2 JB.

sashusmom said:
YOu will need to search the best way to root again.
How did you root initially?? You may have to do it that way again. Just make sure the method is compatible with 4.2 JB.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nexus Root Toolkit

The OTA update downloaded to my cache folder, I moved it to my sdcard. Wouldn't install since I had to fix a couple of files I had edited. So once those 2 files were fixed it installed just fine. Haven't had any issues yet.

The same on here...
But I guess it is better until they fix all this bugs they are reporting.
I'll wait until then.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

Updated to 4.2
Hi have updated the nexus to 4,2 and used Voodoo OTA Rootkeeper to keep my root followed the instructions as I did when updated to 4.1.2,my Nexus appears to be rooted superSu is working also stickmount sees the usb but it will not show any files on the sd card any help here please to get it to see the files on the sd card, thanks for your time
Nick

i dont post often as i am usually here looking for help. this time i get to help
i just downloaded and installed 4.2 OTA.
if your nexus was previously unlocked and rooted, it will download and install just fine. however you will lose root, but KEEP the unlocked state.
to root it again, you must goto "about tablet" and tap your build number 7 times to become a developer, this is not a troll, i got this info from another thread on xda.
then using the nexus root toolkit 1.5.4 with modeltype set to "android *.*.* any build", just do the root procedure.
reboot and ur in business, no need to update supersu, and busybox will still be installed already.

[TIP/HOWTO] For those with new Fire not yet powered up and want to install custom ROM

Tip: When you receive your Fire 2015 tablet, don't setup WiFi if you want to install custom ROM (skip WiFi setup)
Why: They are still shipping with FireOS 5.0.1 and it will autoupdate to 5.1.1 as soon as it sees Internet connection (it doesn't ask and takes over tablet)
Why is that bad: Because it's easier to install custom ROM with 5.0 and still a pain/riskier if from 5.1.1 (as of December 2015)
Why is this method easier/safer: No need to root first, no messing with original ROM (can backup first), no need to enable Developer mode, no need to grant ADB permissions
Prerequisites:
- This method will not work if tablet has upgraded to FireOS 5.1.1 or higher, only 5.0.x works
- Need fastboot tools installed on a computer (Windows tools/drivers here if needed) or (Linux/Mac)
- Download TWRP Recovery here to same computer
- Download your new ROM/support files of choice to an external SD Card
- If on Windows, to keep things simple you might place fastboot command, Recovery image in same folder/directory
Install: Fastboot TWRP Recovery from computer, Install Custom ROM from SD Card
- When you receive Fire, don't power it on (or if you do, don't setup WiFi as it will autoupdate to 5.1.1)
- Copy your downloaded ROM image and support files to an SD card, then insert SD into tablet
- Boot tablet directly into fastboot (power button and volume up button)
- USB attach tablet to computer that has fastboot tools and TWRP recovery image
- Unlock and Boot directly into TWRP image from computer terminal or command line
fastboot oem append-cmdline "androidboot.unlocked_kernel=true"
fastboot boot TWRP_Fire_2.8.7.0_adb.img
- Takes seconds to transfer file then recovery should appear
- Optional but recommended: From TWRP, Backup Stock Amazon ROM to external SD card
- Factory Reset from TWRP Recovery
- Install ROM and support files from TWRP via external SD card
- Reboot, profit

Just bought another tablet and this method worked again. Went straight to doing this before even booting.

xenokc said:
Just bought another tablet and this method worked again. Went straight to doing this before even booting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you buy it from Amazon? I just ordered mine yesterday.

stef-nix said:
Did you buy it from Amazon? I just ordered mine yesterday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, am interested if yours came with 5.0 or 5.1.1. If you boot, dont setup Wifi (skip setup) or will autoupdate - it doesn't ask so be careful. Can then check version.

xenokc said:
Yes, am interested if yours came with 5.0 or 5.1.1. If you boot, dont setup Wifi (skip setup) or will autoupdate - it doesn't ask so be careful. Can then check version.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It came with 5.0.1, I'm going to pull out the root script as soon as I turn it on.

stef-nix said:
It came with 5.0.1, I'm going to pull out the root script as soon as I turn it on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You don't need to root it with the above method. Just go straight into fastboot and launch recovery via computer as described, backup stock ROM then install your ROM (then flash or enable root in developer mode within tablet). I trashed a tablet trying to root it with current methods, which is why I came up with this method.

xenokc said:
You don't need to root it with the above method. Just go straight into fastboot and launch recovery via computer as described, backup stock ROM then install your ROM (then flash or enable root in developer mode within tablet). I trashed a tablet trying to root it with current methods, which is why I came up with this method.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Gotcha. As soon as I opened it, I blocked OTA updates. Rooted/installed SuperSU, and backed up the stock ROM.
I'm currently running CM12.1 and it's working perfectly.
I did not like how it auto signed into my Amazon account once connecting to WiFi (with OTAs blocked)

Many thanks for this. I'm completely new to modding in any way, shape or form, so this is very helpful.
I have seen another thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/orig-development/rom-cm-12-1-2015-11-15-t3249416) which suggests that running CM should be possible now with OS 5.1.1 (my tablet has unfortunately updated since shipping). I have also currently run the script contained within http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/root-playstore-busybox-optimize-flash-t3281804, and was wondering whether it would still be possible to follow the instructions here to install CM, or is it necessary to first restore the Fire tablet back to factory settings (if this is possible)?
Thank you in advance for any help!

Parhelius said:
Many thanks for this. I'm completely new to modding in any way, shape or form, so this is very helpful.
I have seen another thread (http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/orig-development/rom-cm-12-1-2015-11-15-t3249416) which suggests that running CM should be possible now with OS 5.1.1 (my tablet has unfortunately updated since shipping). I have also currently run the script contained within http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/root-playstore-busybox-optimize-flash-t3281804, and was wondering whether it would still be possible to follow the instructions here to install CM, or is it necessary to first restore the Fire tablet back to factory settings (if this is possible)?
Thank you in advance for any help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did your tablet come with 5.1.1 out of the box? Or did you just connect to wifi and the updates came through?

stef-nix said:
Did your tablet come with 5.1.1 out of the box? Or did you just connect to wifi and the updates came through?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I connected to wifi and the updates came through automatically. I hadn't read threads like this one beforehand unfortunately, so I didn't realise that would happen.

Sounds like Amazon is still shipping with 5.0.1 so this method can still apply for those who catch this thread before receiving/booting their tablet. What's nice about this method is you can backup original ROM before modding and don't need to root. Sounds like many have thrashed their tablet trying to root.

Just dont connect to wifi and your fine.

Amazon having a $40 sale, if you ordered one might not setup WiFi when first receiving - re-read first post why.
http://www.amazon.com/Fire-Display-Wi-Fi-GB-Includes/dp/B00TSUGXKE

Just ordered 3 today ... Can't wait to tinker with it.
Thanks for the heads up regarding auto-update!

I've gotten 3 in the last week or so. One came from a small town up north (sorry, shipping details have disappeared from my history) with 5.0.1 and the other two came from Ft. Worth, TX with 5.1.1. I too think everyone should enter recovery immediately when the thing arrives, and then fastboot boot twrp.img to see what happens. I was hoping that if I declined the "Link to my Amazon Account" option, they would pull an older one from stock. Looks like I'm 1 for 3. All 3 have some issues (stuck pixels, backlight bleedthrough) so I'm getting a 4th one from Ft. Worth tomorrow.

percussionking said:
I've gotten 3 in the last week or so. One came from a small town up north (sorry, shipping details have disappeared from my history) with 5.0.1 and the other two came from Ft. Worth, TX with 5.1.1. I too think everyone should enter recovery immediately when the thing arrives, and then fastboot boot twrp.img to see what happens. I was hoping that if I declined the "Link to my Amazon Account" option, they would pull an older one from stock. Looks like I'm 1 for 3. All 3 have some issues (stuck pixels, backlight bleedthrough) so I'm getting a 4th one from Ft. Worth tomorrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try the steps in this thread with the 5.1.1 unit sright out of the box?
Does this still work, or behaved differently with 5.1.1 ?
I'm waiting for my units to make their way to me. Really interested to see what your experience with the 5.1.1 units.
Thnx!

vn33 said:
Did you try the steps in this thread with the 5.1.1 unit sright out of the box?
Does this still work, or behaved differently with 5.1.1 ?
I'm waiting for my units to make their way to me. Really interested to see what your experience with the 5.1.1 units.
Thnx!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My 4th one came from Ft. Worth. I immediately booted into recovery mode but could not boot TWRP. Obviously this turned out to be a 5.1.1 system. If this had been a 5.0.1 system, the first full boot would have been to CM rather than to stock. So if 5.1.1 is installed at the factory you can't get your TWRP on this way.

Just got mine today it had 5.0.1 creating a backup now

Hi,
where can you download twrp from their page?
I see their list of devices but none of them says fire 5th generation.
https://twrp.me/Devices/
THANK YOU!

No you get twrp from here http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/development/wip-bootable-recovery-kffowi-ford-t3238683

5.3.2.1 - Complete "Can" and "Can't" list?

Hi Guys,
So I recently got my hands on a kindle fire 5th gen (2015), running the latest OS 5.3.2.1.
I have read many things and many different opinions on what can and cannot be done, and ideally I am looking for a conclusive list i there is one available.
So I was searching and Root Junky has provided custom ROM's and a few other files, however, this is my understanding
CANNOT: root
CAN: downgrade to an older OS, which may allow root, but its likely it will brick it
CANNOT: unlock bootloader for custom ROM installation
CANNOT: install a custom flash zip file from the inbuilt android recovery interface
I dont know if they just happened to crash down and lockdown the fire recently, but pages such as this below, indicate it can (or at least could) be done.
https://www.thepolyglotdeveloper.com/2016/05/install-better-custom-rom-amazon-kindle-fire/
and this, indicates its probably too late since I connected it and downloaded 5.3.2.1.
http://android.stackexchange.com/qu...ot-and-install-cm-12-1-on-5th-gen-kindle-fire
So, is there a conclusive list, aside "using your tablet as out of the box" as to what you can and cannot do to modify the fire 5th gen?

I got mine right before bootloader lock running slim LP haven't updated since used flash fire on 5.1.1 to the best of my knowledge
Sent from my Robin using Tapatalk

FF51, so very lucky, I am really envious actually.
The fire, when not suffering pixel outages, and without a dire need for GPS, makes an excellent hardware base, and from my reading, installng a custom rom would really unlock the xperience of the tablet and give it a much more competitive edge.
Out of curiosity, did you jump straight into the slim build, or did you try others?

Also I have read you cannot install CM13+ due to the limitations of the bootloader, but can you install CM12 instead (I think thats based on lollipop isnt it?) and can you do that with the stock bootloader / recovery module?

jeebob said:
Also I have read you cannot install CM13+ due to the limitations of the bootloader, but can you install CM12 instead (I think thats based on lollipop isnt it?) and can you do that with the stock bootloader / recovery module?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- can not root (at present) or downgrade (ever) FireOS 5.3.2.1
- bootloader remains locked; no custom kernels or recoveries (eg: TWRP)
- rooted devices can only run Lollipop based ROMs due to kernel restrictions
- custom ROMs must be installed with FlashFire
- see forum index for further info: http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/index-amazon-fire-2015-t3210485

Hi every one!
Tell me please, can I use FlashFire and install CM12.1 into my Kindle 7 with 5.3.2.1 without root device?

So I can`t downgrade 5.3.2.1?
My device isn`t rooted and locked. my only achievement was the google play store

Davey126 said:
- can not root (at present) or downgrade (ever) FireOS 5.3.2.1
- bootloader remains locked; no custom kernels or recoveries (eg: TWRP)
- rooted devices can only run Lollipop based ROMs due to kernel restrictions
- custom ROMs must be installed with FlashFire
- see forum index for further info: http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/index-amazon-fire-2015-t3210485
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Davey, a concise list which is great, now I just have to hope we can get the bootloader and root sorted on 5.3.2.1!
bojkoio said:
Hi every one!
Tell me please, can I use FlashFire and install CM12.1 into my Kindle 7 with 5.3.2.1 without root device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like the answer is not at this time, as from my reading, 5.3.2.1 cannot be rooted directly with current methods, only 5.3.1 onwards.
freaky2xd said:
So I can`t downgrade 5.3.2.1?
My device isn`t rooted and locked. my only achievement was the google play store
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thats all I have managed to achieve so far, next I want to remove the adverts!

bojkoio said:
Hi every one!
Tell me please, can I use FlashFire and install CM12.1 into my Kindle 7 with 5.3.2.1 without root device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope - no custom ROMs without root.
---------- Post added at 12:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:49 PM ----------
freaky2xd said:
So I can`t downgrade 5.3.2.1?
My device isn`t rooted and locked. my only achievement was the google play store
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No - nor likely ever. Best hope is for a root solution.

Well Sh*t
I got all 3 of my daughters a kindle fire 7" 5th gen for Christmas. I ran thru the updates and was going to install the google framework and all that goes with it to be able to install works of ahhh painting app. However, I have hit a roadblock since it seems even tho I have enabled unknown sources and rebooted each device (all running 5.3.2.1) I can download apks but when I attempt to install them, it's like the install button just doesn't register touch response no matter what direction you rotate the device. I'm not new to this, I got kindles because of how easy it was to customize a previous one my 7 year old had, and besides, $30 each was a pretty good deal. So maybe it's a software glitch in the new update, maybe it's that I just don't care enough to dig into it but that's where it stands here.
Edit: A simple reboot after allowing unknown sources fixed the problem and I completed the installation of Google play store

luck_shawn said:
I got all 3 of my daughters a kindle fire 7" 5th gen for Christmas. I ran thru the updates and was going to install the google framework and all that goes with it to be able to install works of ahhh painting app. However, I have hit a roadblock since it seems even tho I have enabled unknown sources and rebooted each device (all running 5.3.2.1) I can download apks but when I attempt to install them, it's like the install button just doesn't register touch response no matter what direction you rotate the device. I'm not new to this, I got kindles because of how easy it was to customize a previous one my 7 year old had, and besides, $30 each was a pretty good deal. So maybe it's a software glitch in the new update, maybe it's that I just don't care enough to dig into it but that's where it stands here.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On mine I downloaded the four apks needed installed them (in proper order) using apk permission remover and it worked for me. There's a thread in the fourms I folllwed

I just used the kindle supertool to install the google framework and APK's. once click and leave it to its own devices - a tool by superjunky I think?
Anyway, as for the rotation, I havent noticed any particular problems with it, but I havent done a lot of work with testing it, I will try take a look a bit later!

i have the same problem. I managed to install Google Play but trying to side load the Popcorntime apk fails with the next and install button not registering touch input, cancel button works fine.

oilyrag said:
i have the same problem. I managed to install Google Play but trying to side load the Popcorntime apk fails with the next and install button not registering touch input, cancel button works fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you enabled FireOS setting that allows installs from unknown sources and then rebooted device?

Davey126 said:
Have you enabled FireOS setting that allows installs from unknown sources and then rebooted device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thought I had rebooted device, done it again, now works. Many thanks
Sent from my SM-N9005 using Tapatalk

I bought two 7" fires on the Black Friday sale to use as home automation panels in the house (with SmartThings). I installed the Play Store but found the SmartThings app was still not compatible . But really I was waiting for the new ActionTiles (web client) to come out. The one Fire upgraded to 5.3.2.1 and I haven't opened the other yet. The Play Store will no longer launch on the 5.3.2.1 tablet either. My original thought was to probably flash a new rom that is not as restrictive but doesn't look like that will happen now. Have a few additional questions for the "can" and "can't" list with 5.3.2.1 please:
1) Can the lock screen be disabled/removed?
2) Can the device be woken up by screen touch?
3) Does the non-root Play Store hack still work? (maybe I just need to redo something after the upgrade?)
4) Are there any browsers I can have auto load the ActionTiles dashboard (web page) and always keep it up and full screen?
Thanks a lot!

Coods said:
1) Can the lock screen be disabled/removed?
2) Can the device be woken up by screen touch?
3) Does the non-root Play Store hack still work? (maybe I just need to redo something after the upgrade?)
4) Are there any browsers I can have auto load the ActionTiles dashboard (web page) and always keep it up and full screen?
Thanks a lot!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) not completely that I have found, unless you keep the screen alive 24/7.
2) power button only however root could allow this but 5.3.2.1 doesn't support (or should I say have a method for) root at this time.
3) yes it does, I have uploaded it to about 6 different kindle recently all running 5.3.2.1
4) again root would help, however you can use automateit free or pro from plastered. It's very powerful and you should be able to achieve a lot with it. If it doesn't support it though, tasker is another powerful tool which might be worth exploring
Sent from my D6603 using Tapatalk

jeebob said:
2) power button only however root could allow this but 5.3.2.1 doesn't support (or should I say have a method for) root at this time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No hardware support for this capability regardless of root (re: touch to wake).

Davey126 said:
No hardware support for this capability regardless of root (re: touch to wake).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for confirming davey!
Sent from my D6603 using Tapatalk

Thanks for the info guys, appreciate it! This helps me understand the direction I want to take with these as alarm panels

hey. i messed up an update to my fire and now i'm stuck...

hi guys. I was running the Nexus fire Rom using flashfire. its was on 5.1.2. I tried to flash the new updated version from this year of nexus fire from a clean wipe and now I dont have play store or anything. i cant remember the intial root process...its been while. I'm a little fuzzy as to how everything work cuz of the locked bootloader.
I dont have play store. i tried to side load flashfire into my downloads from pc but it wont show. it say dowloads empty. i literally have clock, calculator, downloads, settings and SU. i dunno what to do at this point. why arent the apks showing in downloads? any help is apprecaited. sad to see there is no real root yet..

havikx said:
hi guys. I was running the Nexus fire Rom using flashfire. its was on 5.1.2. I tried to flash the new updated version from this year of nexus fire from a clean wipe and now I dont have play store or anything. i cant remember the intial root process...its been while. I'm a little fuzzy as to how everything work cuz of the locked bootloader.
I dont have play store. i tried to side load flashfire into my downloads from pc but it wont show. it say dowloads empty. i literally have clock, calculator, downloads, settings and SU. i dunno what to do at this point. why arent the apks showing in downloads? any help is apprecaited. sad to see there is no real root yet..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is "real" root on FireOS 5.1.2. Best option is to sideload (reinstall) that build of FireOS via stock recovery then use the SuperTool to root and prepare your device for installation of Nexus. Going through that process will refresh your memory. A few tips:
- be sure to get the 5.1.2 binary; no higher/lower
- don't register with Amazon on initial boot
- keep off WiFi to avoid forced OTA update to an unrootable FireOS build
- be sure to flash the version of Nexus ROM that includes GAaps; you likely used the ROM only variant on your last refresh attempt

Davey126 said:
There is "real" root on FireOS 5.1.2. Best option is to sideload (reinstall) that build of FireOS via stock recovery then use the SuperTool to root and prepare your device for installation of Nexus. Going through that process will refresh your memory. A few tips:
- be sure to get the 5.1.2 binary; no higher/lower
- don't register with Amazon on initial boot
- keep off WiFi to avoid forced OTA update to an unrootable FireOS build
- be sure to flash the version of Nexus ROM that includes GAaps; you likely used the ROM only variant on your last refresh attempt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
now that you mention, thats probably exactly what i forgot to do. Also, i'm on 5.1.1. My bad. As far as i know, 5.1.1 system still has that locked bootloader preventing android upgrades. Though I havent kept up with development too much. Ill get started on returning to stock and rerooting. Hope this little tablet get a breakthru in the near future!

ok, so i sideloaded flashfire thru ADB and decided to switch over to lineage. thanks for your help. easier than returning to stock.

havikx said:
ok, so i sideloaded flashfire thru ADB and decided to switch over to lineage. thanks for your help. easier than returning to stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. The technique you used doesn't work for everyone; hence my generic 'return-to-stock and redo everything' guidance. Glad you are back in business with minimum fuss.

Confusion About Best Root Method For Fire 7 Tablet (9th generation)

Hello,
I recently purchased a Fire 7 tablet and have a question about rooting it. Currently my tablet has the following out of the box:
- Fire 7 (9th generation)
- Build number = 0002517050244
- Fire OS = 6.3.1.2
After reading many of the posts on XDA, I am confused how to do root. Here are the following posts that talk about root for the Fire 7:
- https://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/general/fireos-6-3-1-0-amazon-fire-7-2019-t3937209
- https://forum.xda-developers.com/am...ire-7-2019-mustang-unbrick-downgrade-t3944365
- https://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/development/unlock-fire-t3899860
- https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...atek-armv8-t3922213/post79626434#post79626434
Which is the best recommended method to root? I don't think I need to install a custom ROM, unless it turns out I need to install a de-bloated stock version.
Thanks in advance!

Software method here (good up to 6.3.1.2) and most recent.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/am...ire-7-2019-mustang-unbrick-downgrade-t3944365

Michajin said:
Software method here (good up to 6.3.1.2) and most recent.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/am...ire-7-2019-mustang-unbrick-downgrade-t3944365
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you... that's what I figured. I'll let everyone know my results.

After much tinkering around, I finally got it to root (or at least I think I did). A couple of things:
- How do I confirm whether I actually have root?
- After following the instructions, what should the next steps be? Should I upgrade the software OTA? I remember reading something about possibly disabling OTA, but I can't remember if this applies?

gil_happy said:
After much tinkering around, I finally got it to root (or at least I think I did). A couple of things:
- How do I confirm whether I actually have root?
- After following the instructions, what should the next steps be? Should I upgrade the software OTA? I remember reading something about possibly disabling OTA, but I can't remember if this applies?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, any comments on this? Since my Wifi has been disabled the entire time, I don't want to enable it until I know whether I need to disable updates. I don't know if the Fire 7 will automatically try to do an update and break root, etc. Secondly, how do I tell if I have root (keeping in mind that Wifi is still disabled)?
Thanks!

gil_happy said:
Hi, any comments on this? Since my Wifi has been disabled the entire time, I don't want to enable it until I know whether I need to disable updates. I don't know if the Fire 7 will automatically try to do an update and break root, etc. Secondly, how do I tell if I have root (keeping in mind that Wifi is still disabled)?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you make it through both the bootrom-step and the fastboot-step? Can you boot into TWRP? I would recommend changing to lineage if android is your flavor. You can install a root checker, but if you followed the steps, you should have magisk installed (magisk is a root manager). What exactly are you looking to do with the tablet?

gil_happy said:
After much tinkering around, I finally got it to root (or at least I think I did). A couple of things:
- How do I confirm whether I actually have root?
- After following the instructions, what should the next steps be? Should I upgrade the software OTA? I remember reading something about possibly disabling OTA, but I can't remember if this applies?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Michajin said:
Did you make it through both the bootrom-step and the fastboot-step? Can you boot into TWRP? I would recommend changing to lineage if android is your flavor. You can install a root checker, but if you followed the steps, you should have magisk installed (magisk is a root manager). What exactly are you looking to do with the tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks so much for getting back to me. As far as making it through the bootrom-step and the fastboot-step, I think I successfully completed both steps as I can boot into TWRP (I assume booting in TWRP means successfully completing both steps?). A couple of things:
- As mentioned, I can boot into TWRP no problem. I can also see that Magisk is also installed (when I click on Magisk, it looks like it is attempting to access the Internet for updates).
- My Fire 7 currently has Fire OS = 6.3.1.2, but after what I think is the completed install, I still have not turned on the Wifi as I'm worried that something (including the OS) might auto-update and break something, e.g. root. That is why I was asking if OTA needs to be disabled?
- As far as my plans for my tablet, here is my original post (https://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/help/customize-fire-7-tablet-t4112223), but essentially we would like to use these for promotional purposes. To explain, I want to sent out a tablet to a potential client via mail, and when they power up the tablet, our logo will replace the Amazon / Fire logo (root is needed for that), then after it boots up, it boots right to a screen where there is a some type of product messaging (maybe with a graphic), and then a button that basically says 'press here to watch our video'. It really doesn't even need access to the internet.
Hopefully all of this makes sense?

gil_happy said:
Thanks so much for getting back to me. As far as making it through the bootrom-step and the fastboot-step, I think I successfully completed both steps as I can boot into TWRP (I assume booting in TWRP means successfully completing both steps?). A couple of things:
- As mentioned, I can boot into TWRP no problem. I can also see that Magisk is also installed (when I click on Magisk, it looks like it is attempting to access the Internet for updates).
- My Fire 7 currently has Fire OS = 6.3.1.2, but after what I think is the completed install, I still have not turned on the Wifi as I'm worried that something (including the OS) might auto-update and break something, e.g. root. That is why I was asking if OTA needs to be disabled?
- As far as my plans for my tablet, here is my original post (https://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/help/customize-fire-7-tablet-t4112223), but essentially we would like to use these for promotional purposes. To explain, I want to sent out a tablet to a potential client via mail, and when they power up the tablet, our logo will replace the Amazon / Fire logo (root is needed for that), then after it boots up, it boots right to a screen where there is a some type of product messaging (maybe with a graphic), and then a button that basically says 'press here to watch our video'. It really doesn't even need access to the internet.
Hopefully all of this makes sense?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You should be able to disable OTA with renaming this app,
/system/priv-app/DeviceSoftwareOTA/DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk
Also a package disabler will work.
I have had sucess with
adb shell
$ su
# pm disable com.amazon.device.software.ota
Or
#pm uninstall com.amazon.device.software.ota
There are a few ways...
Easy to check, do one of these OTA disables connect wifi, check for updates. If you see it downloading, turn wifi back off. If it just closes, or says error, then OTA's are disabled. You might lose root, if you take an udpate, but TWRP should be safe. Make a backup in twrp to go back to what you have now.

Michajin said:
You should be able to disable OTA with renaming this app,
/system/priv-app/DeviceSoftwareOTA/DeviceSoftwareOTA.apk
Also a package disabler will work.
I have had sucess with
adb shell
$ su
# pm disable com.amazon.device.software.ota
Or
#pm uninstall com.amazon.device.software.ota
There are a few ways...
Easy to check, do one of these OTA disables connect wifi, check for updates. If you see it downloading, turn wifi back off. If it just closes, or says error, then OTA's are disabled. You might lose root, if you take an udpate, but TWRP should be safe. Make a backup in twrp to go back to what you have now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks so much for this! I didn't see anything with the name *.software.ota in that directory. The closest thing I saw was com.amazon.device.sync and sync.sdk.internal. Of course now when I try to boot up my Fire after attempting to reboot it using the touch screen, now my tablet doesn't power up :-/ I was doing so many things trying to get into the shell, I don't fully know what I'm doing. However, when this happened last time, I need to open the tablet, disconnect the battery, and then do some of the shell commands.

gil_happy said:
Thanks so much for this! I didn't see anything with the name *.software.ota in that directory. The closest thing I saw was com.amazon.device.sync and sync.sdk.internal. Of course now when I try to boot up my Fire after attempting to reboot it using the touch screen, now my tablet doesn't power up :-/ I was doing so many things trying to get into the shell, I don't fully know what I'm doing. However, when this happened last time, I need to open the tablet, disconnect the battery, and then do some of the shell commands.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well if you cant find the ota the re-rename method, dont rename the other ones. I have always used disable
adb pm disable com.amazon.device.software.ota
Did you make a back up prior to doing anything as i suggested? What kind of things were you doing to try to get in a shell?
"Make a backup in twrp to go back to what you have now."