Pixel 4 xl Issues after updating to Android 11 - Google Pixel 4 XL Questions & Answers

Hello all fellow pixelers
After upgrading to 11 i am faxing a ton of issues with my pixel 4 xl such as "clean the top bar", phone calls going to speakerphone etc.
I have tried multiple factory resets with CMD but one thing i am experienced and have never had before is that whenever i am almost done with the reset option via CMD, the message i get is:
E: (libfs_mgr) failed to mount / metadata; formatting: Invalid argument
E: (libfs_mgr) fs_mgr_do_format: Format /dev/block/by-name/metadata as "ext4|""
E: (libfs_mgr) make2fs returned 255
E: (libfs_mgr)failed to format /metadata: Permission denied
E: Cannot mount /metadata/ota
formating /data...
formatting /metadata...
Wiping Titan M..
E:can"t send spi message: Try again
it repeats for 30 times
Data wipe complete
This being said i sure hope someone can and will help me solve this issue as it is becoming a pain, i thank you all in advance for your efforts

It sounds like you're only trying factory resets at the moment. I don't know how to fix this issue, so the only suggestion I have is to try flashing the factory image (which includes a userdata wipe). Don't do the OTA update method. I've been able to fix all my phone problems by flashing the factory image. If that still doesn't work, then I'm thinking there's something physically wrong with the phone.

Colonel_Kosova said:
Hello all fellow pixelers
After upgrading to 11 i am faxing a ton of issues with my pixel 4 xl such as "clean the top bar", phone calls going to speakerphone etc.
I have tried multiple factory resets with CMD but one thing i am experienced and have never had before is that whenever i am almost done with the reset option via CMD, the message i get is:
E: (libfs_mgr) failed to mount / metadata; formatting: Invalid argument
E: (libfs_mgr) fs_mgr_do_format: Format /dev/block/by-name/metadata as "ext4|""
E: (libfs_mgr) make2fs returned 255
E: (libfs_mgr)failed to format /metadata: Permission denied
E: Cannot mount /metadata/ota
formating /data...
formatting /metadata...
Wiping Titan M..
E:can"t send spi message: Try again
it repeats for 30 times
Data wipe complete
This being said i sure hope someone can and will help me solve this issue as it is becoming a pain, i thank you all in advance for your efforts
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you tried factory resetting the phone? You do not need a computer. If you do factory reset you'll lose all your data.

Hey there Neo
Thnx for the reply and yes I flashed the phone 4 times now with cmd. I get all the bugs and the messages only when I am flashing Android 11.
I reverted once to 10 I had no issues whatsoever, once I upgraded to 11 again both with cmd and ota I get the same issue.
It is really really is a nuisance, was hoping maybe someone can finde a fix?
Just got the darn phone saved up most a year just to get it, what a dissapointment.
Again thank u

Homeboy76 said:
Have you tried factory resetting the phone? You do not need a computer. If you do factory reset you'll lose all your data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did and it didn't help, just feel mad I hate to have to sell this phone.
Thank you for the reply

Colonel_Kosova said:
I did and it didn't help, just feel mad I hate to have to sell this phone.
Thank you for the reply
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you have the latest Android SDK Platform-tools r34.0.4?
What cmd are you using to flash the phone?
Guide
This Factory Reset: Settings -> System-> Advanced->Reset options-> Erase all data (factory reset)

Homeboy76 said:
Do you have the latest Android SDK Platform-tools r34.0.4?
What cmd are you using to flash the phone?
Guide
This Factory Reset: Settings -> System-> Advanced->Reset options-> Erase all data (factory reset)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I do all the latest versions
I use this as a guide
https://youtu.be/cKXa5iL1kfQ

Ok, Hopefully, someone has a solution to this problem.

Your error messages seem like it's somehow incompatible or you're not allowed to flash. So that made me wonder if you're downloading the right factory image for the right phone variant. (I think I only saw one variant for the android 11; can't recall at the moment.)
From your responses, it sounds like you're using the ota image. I've had problems with ota in the past, so my suggestion is to flash the factory image instead, which is different from ota. (I've had the pixel 4 xl for a year and never had issues with flashing.)
I also don't input the cmd commands manually. I run the "flash all.bat" which comes with the factory image and it does everything for me.
Colonel_Kosova said:
Hey there Neo
Thnx for the reply and yes I flashed the phone 4 times now with cmd. I get all the bugs and the messages only when I am flashing Android 11.
I reverted once to 10 I had no issues whatsoever, once I upgraded to 11 again both with cmd and ota I get the same issue.
It is really really is a nuisance, was hoping maybe someone can finde a fix?
Just got the darn phone saved up most a year just to get it, what a dissapointment.
Again thank u
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Neo thank you very much for the reply and the hints.
Could you please maybe find and link the right file for me!?
I have never used the method with flash all bat file, this being said i would really appreciate if you could do me that favor and maybe guide me on how to.
I really love my 4 xl and hate the fact that I have these issues, I have been using it like this for some days hoping a fix will pop out there before I install everything back again.
I sincerely thank you for the effort and time
QUOTE=neo_lithic3K;83692801]Your error messages seem like it's somehow incompatible or you're not allowed to flash. So that made me wonder if you're downloading the right factory image for the right phone variant. (I think I only saw one variant for the android 11; can't recall at the moment.)
From your responses, it sounds like you're using the ota image. I've had problems with ota in the past, so my suggestion is to flash the factory image instead, which is different from ota. (I've had the pixel 4 xl for a year and never had issues with flashing.)
I also don't input the cmd commands manually. I run the "flash all.bat" which comes with the factory image and it does everything for me.[/QUOTE]

Opps! Wrong thread, stay safe.
Sorry @neo_lithic3K.

Check to make sure your proximity sensor is working. Mine quit working some time around 11 beta 3 and flashing back to 10 stopped the clean the top bar thing but not the speakerphone problem (screen was staying on up against my ear) Google replaced mine under warranty

(1a) First, here are the preliminary steps. There are alot of instructions at the top of Google's page at: https://developers.google.com/android/images
I assume that you've already followed all those instructions .... especially unlocking your bootloader, enabling USB Debugging from Developer Options, and adding fastboot to your PATH environment variable (and then rebooting your PC).
***NOTE: There are better guides on xda that give you more thorough instructions, so you may want to check those out instead of reading mine below.***
(1b) I assume that you have an unlocked Pixel 4 XL and that you purchased google's version of the phone from the Google Store. I don't know all the different ways someone can buy the Pixel 4 XL. For example, I think Verizon used to sell it but I don't know if Verizon variants can be flashed. If you didn't buy the phone from the US Google store or you bought the phone from another country, then there could be restrictions there that I don't know about.
(1c) I also assume you have a Windows PC. I've never flashed from other types of operating systems.
(2) Download the latest android 11 'coral' factory image at: https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/coral-rp1a.201005.004-factory-1eb5827f.zip
That link is for the file posted on google's webpage for this version: 11.0.0 (RP1A.201005.004, Oct 2020) 1eb5827f98ec68b71bfd651d667a7cf557832f2e2850540d322d2a3a6fcc07a8
(3) Connect your computer to your phone using the usb cable. I assume your phone's usb debugging is already enabled & fastboot is already in your PATH environment variables as mentioned in the instructions earlier. You may get a pop up on your phone to trust the PC. I don't remember the exact wording but you should accept or trust it.
(4) After you download the zip file, unzip it somewhere (preserve the folder structure). You'll find the flash-all.bat located at: \coral-rp1a.201005.004-factory-1eb5827f\coral-rp1a.201005.004\flash-all.bat
(5) NOTE that everything on your phone will be wiped so first backup anything you need.
(6) Boot your phone to the bootloader using the hardware buttons (or you can use the cmd command: adb reboot bootloader).
While your phone is still connected to your PC, run flash-all.bat. (I usually just double-click on the bat file from my Windows PC)
(7) The cmd window will run through a series of commands and your phone screen may change or reboot. At one point (on the fastbootd phone screen), it will look like your phone is not doing anything or waiting for something. Don't do anything.... just wait. You'll know the flashing is done when the cmd window says "Press any key to exit..."
(8) When it's all done, your phone should automatically boot into android and you should see the pixel setup screen.
(9) This resets your phone to factory image. You'll need to follow other steps to root your phone.
Colonel_Kosova said:
Neo thank you very much for the reply and the hints.
Could you please maybe find and link the right file for me!?
I have never used the method with flash all bat file, this being said i would really appreciate if you could do me that favor and maybe guide me on how to.
I really love my 4 xl and hate the fact that I have these issues, I have been using it like this for some days hoping a fix will pop out there before I install everything back again.
I sincerely thank you for the effort and time
QUOTE=neo_lithic3K;83692801]Your error messages seem like it's somehow incompatible or you're not allowed to flash. So that made me wonder if you're downloading the right factory image for the right phone variant. (I think I only saw one variant for the android 11; can't recall at the moment.)
From your responses, it sounds like you're using the ota image. I've had problems with ota in the past, so my suggestion is to flash the factory image instead, which is different from ota. (I've had the pixel 4 xl for a year and never had issues with flashing.)
I also don't input the cmd commands manually. I run the "flash all.bat" which comes with the factory image and it does everything for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
[/QUOTE]

Colonel_Kosova said:
Neo thank you very much for the reply and the hints.
Could you please maybe find and link the right file for me!?
I have never used the method with flash all bat file, this being said i would really appreciate if you could do me that favor and maybe guide me on how to.
I really love my 4 xl and hate the fact that I have these issues, I have been using it like this for some days hoping a fix will pop out there before I install everything back again.
I sincerely thank you for the effort and time
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know it's been 4-5 days since you last responded, but I'm going to assume you still need help. Flashing a full factory image (Not OTA) using the included flash-all.bat script will return your phone to "out of the box" condition. It's a fool proof way to get the phone completely factory stock, so you can then test your hardware (proximity sensor). Instructions can be found on the image download page. It's possible you have a sensor issue, but flashing the full image is the first step. Best of luck and be sure to come back and let us know how it went.

Hello, everyone.
I have a similar issue, though nothing related to the bootloader. I did flash the entire factory image and the process went smoothly until the very end where it showed:
Erasing 'userdata'
Erase successful, but not automatically formatting.
File system type raw not supported.
Erasing 'metadata'
Erase successful, but not automatically formatting.
File system type raw not supported.
Rebooting
Finished. Total time 253.513s
Press any key to exit...
The phone booted up just fine but I can't stop being worried something might eventually not work properly because of this.
Is there anything else I can try?

Rocio19 said:
Hello, everyone.
I have a similar issue, though nothing related to the bootloader. I did flash the entire factory image and the process went smoothly until the very end where it showed:
Erasing 'userdata'
Erase successful, but not automatically formatting.
File system type raw not supported.
Erasing 'metadata'
Erase successful, but not automatically formatting.
File system type raw not supported.
Rebooting
Finished. Total time 253.513s
Press any key to exit...
The phone booted up just fine but I can't stop being worried something might eventually not work properly because of this.
Is there anything else I can try?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. You used the flash-all without removing the -w. That is the reason your userdata was erased. You're good!

Homeboy76 said:
No. You used the flash-all without removing the -w. That is the reason your userdata was erased. You're good!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much for your reply. My main concern is the part about not being able to format it. Is that normal?

Rocio19 said:
Thank you very much for your reply. My main concern is the part about not being able to format it. Is that normal?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes! I don't think you'll have any problems.

Homeboy76 said:
Yes! I don't think you'll have any problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Phew! That's a relief. I just got the phone yesterday and I was so worried I had blessed it up somehow :crying:
Think I'll stay with stock for a while before I attempt any more flashing lol. Thank you!

I got tired of dealing with face unlock being broken and other issues related to the proximity sensor (screen wouldn't light up during a call if i moved it away from my face).
So I decided to flash back to the latest Android 10 image prior to 11 coming out. Everything is back to working buttery smooth.
If anyone else wants to do this and needs help let me know.
A few tips:
I used https://flash.android.com to perform the factory flash
I used this build 10.0.0 (QQ3A.200805.001, Aug 2020)
After flashing, the phone wants you to upgrade to Android 11, but you can enable developer options and turn off Android System Update notifications.

Related

Stuck On Google Logo and didnt Check Unlock OEM

Hi All,
So I have been searching the interwebs for the last four hours with no luck.
I have a Nexus 6 and I was trying to update the OTA developer preview from google that I signed up to test.
Problem is that I ended up on a bootloop. I am able to get into Fastboot but I am unable to make any commands work since the device is locked. All commands end with a Failed (command write failed error).
I am able to go into recovery to access ADB but that is also not very useful because it seems i am unable to push anything to the phone. The only thing which seems to want to work is when I try and load an OTA image.
This loads until 100% and I get an error which says the image I have is to new and it requires a specic image.
I am currently on 6.0.1/MMB29V/2554798.
I have tried factory reset but no help there.
Also when I try select update from SD Card it says it Couldnt mount/sdcard.... Unknow volume for path
Any help?
qbzee007 said:
Hi All,
So I have been searching the interwebs for the last four hours with no luck.
I have a Nexus 6 and I was trying to update the OTA developer preview from google that I signed up to test.
Problem is that I ended up on a bootloop. I am able to get into Fastboot but I am unable to make any commands work since the device is locked. All commands end with a Failed (command write failed error).
I am able to go into recovery to access ADB but that is also not very useful because it seems i am unable to push anything to the phone. The only thing which seems to want to work is when I try and load an OTA image.
This loads until 100% and I get an error which says the image I have is to new and it requires a specic image.
I am currently on 6.0.1/MMB29V/2554798.
I have tried factory reset but no help there.
Also when I try select update from SD Card it says it Couldnt mount/sdcard.... Unknow volume for path
Any help?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very difficult. Did you read this thread?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3053783
NLBeev said:
Very difficult. Did you read this thread?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3053783
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried it and it seems I have no other option but to return.
Problem is that i am in South Africa and have no idea how to go about.
Bought off Amazon
http://www.androidpolice.com/2016/0...t-bricking-some-devices-but-google-has-a-fix/
qbzee007 said:
.....Problem is that i am in South Africa and have no idea how to go about.
Bought off Amazon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
your n6 is bricked and you could try all the options from XDA.
There is a thread about the Nexus Root Toolkit of Wugfresh. This kit runs on a Windows PC and has a menu with option for bricked phones.
When you can start in recovery mode (long press start button + volume down) you could give it a try. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2947452
When there is no result, you could send it to Amazon for repair. But check the costs.
The total costs of mail, assurance and repair are probably more than $ 100,=.
I have seen some posts that the of a new N6 is every month lower.
TriguyRN said:
http://www.androidpolice.com/2016/0...t-bricking-some-devices-but-google-has-a-fix/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was going to suggest this too. The link posted leads to this link that has instructions on installing.
alryder said:
I was going to suggest this too. The link posted leads to this link that has instructions on installing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much.
This worked.
Booting as I type this. Best Easter Monday gift.
Thanks Again

Nexus 6 No LTE with IMEI correct, Bad "0" IMEi I have LTE?!?!?!? Heeeeelp!

Ok, Ladies and Gentleman I need some deep thought processing here for some help with a Motorola Nexus 6. In brief here is what the problem is, a while back when flashing Pure Nexus rom, I experienced a loss of my IMEI. I can restore my IMEI but if and when I do, I lose any 4g and LTE connectivity. The phone functions in 3g with data and phone etc... just slow as molasses but if I restore my IMEI to the one that doesn't show up my IMEI correctly I get back LTE/4g and all works fine also. I've tried going all the way back to the original firmware which was saved to computer and restoring it. Same thing, I have IMEI but no LTE/4g. restore bad efs and get LTE/4g back. I've tried going through all the factory firmware's and flashing by ADB and or TWRP and nothing firmware wise will allow me to restore the IMEI and have LTE/4g signal. If I restore the bad efs and get OOOOOOOO for IMEI when using the *#06# on any firmware version, I regain LTE/4g functioning! I am using Pure Nexus 7.1 now and can still see the 00000000 as a IMEI, if I restore my efs and get IMEI back showing correctly, no LTE/4g signal! My phone can only function as it should as long as the IMEI doesn't show correctly! I have tried just flashing base bands and other segments of any rom and still the problem persist! I have even tried restoring an EFS from another nexus 6 and still no help. It's not the sims because I've tried AT&T sims and Verizon sims from other phones and it does the same thing! I've tried flashing with a sims in the phone and without. Any ideas??? It's like somehow a correlating segment of a file is not being recognized when the correct IMEI is present, like some thing some where in the efs, IMEI, and radio are not taking to each other so to speak, unless it shows the zero's! Brain waves come on and help me out here!!
Have you tried doing a fresh install of a complete factory nexus image? (i.e. entirely wiping the device)
jbaumert said:
Have you tried doing a fresh install of a complete factory nexus image? (i.e. entirely wiping the device)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, and Yes, about 30 different times, using Google developer site original factory firmware, using ADB and or TWRP all the way back to original image, which I have saved as I said in the original post! I don't have a problem restoring IMEI it's just if I do, the phone will not connect to LTE/4g no way no how. I have to have a "0" IMEI for the phone to function as it should actually function and the LTE/4g radio to work, something strange is a miss!
TheWacoKid said:
Thanks, and Yes, about 30 different times, using Google developer site original factory firmware, using ADB and or TWRP all the way back to original image, which I have saved as I said in the original post! I don't have a problem restoring IMEI it's just if I do, the phone will not connect to LTE/4g no way no how. I have to have a "0" IMEI for the phone to function as it should actually function and the LTE/4g radio to work, something strange is a miss!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alrighty, no need to yell.... The factory image is flashed with "fastboot" NOT adb or TWRP. Just wanted to clarify how you were returning the phone to stock.
jbaumert said:
Alrighty, no need to yell.... The factory image is flashed with "fastboot" NOT adb or TWRP. Just wanted to clarify how you were returning the phone to stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes I said thanks because I was yelling! Jezz, get a grip THIS IS YELLING! ADB/Fastboot both tools are used to flash, extract etc.. with your computer, so obviously one cannot flash/restore etc... without using the proper tools via computer!
Try this:
1) Install "Change APN" app from Google store
2) Open ChangeAPN and click the "option" ( the 3 vertical dots) in the upper right-hand corners.
3) click "reset to default"
4) exit the app
5) perform carrier reset ##3282#
6)If needed: after the phone reboots, perform PRL/Device config update. That's it and you should have LTE data.
Dixon Butz said:
Try this:
1) Install "Change APN" app from Google store
2) Open ChangeAPN and click the "option" ( the 3 vertical dots) in the upper right-hand corners.
3) click "reset to default"
4) exit the app
5) perform carrier reset ##3282#
6)If needed: after the phone reboots, perform PRL/Device config update. That's it and you should have LTE data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks! Ok, Itried that, restored my IMEI, "reset APN to default" Tried Carrier reset ##3282# and it says "NO Cellular Network" even though I am showing my network and 3G. So, I rebooted and same thing, went to PRL and tried to update and it says "update error" but it will refresh!
TheWacoKid said:
Yes I said thanks because I was yelling! Jezz, get a grip THIS IS YELLING! ADB/Fastboot both tools are used to flash, extract etc.. with your computer, so obviously one cannot flash/restore etc... without using the proper tools via computer!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You clearly don't know the difference between a recovery, the bootloader and the operating system.
ADB is used when the phone is on and is not how you flash a factory image. Fastboot is used in the bootloader and is the proper method of restoring to factory.
admiralspeedy said:
You clearly don't know the difference between a recovery, the bootloader and the operating system.
ADB is used when the phone is on and is not how you flash a factory image. Fastboot is used in the bootloader and is the proper method of restoring to factory.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I guess not, that's how I've been flashing, restoring and unbricking cells for years, I just don't understand anything!
TheWacoKid said:
No, I guess not, that's how I've been flashing, restoring and unbricking cells for years, I just don't understand anything!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know some magic we don't? There is no way you've flashed a ROM with ADB...
@admiralspeedy
I was very gratified when I noticed that I'd overnight become a Senior Member - until I realised that it had nothing to do with the wisdom I'd imparted in my posts, but only that I'd posted 100. So seniority doesn't imply knowledge, which I think you're beginning to demonstrate in this thread as well as in another where I've seen this same strange unnecessarily belligerent attitude.
TheWacoKid is asking for help, which I'd be happy to offer if I had any ideas. I feel absolutely no desire to tell him that he has no idea what he's doing. And nor should you.
Stop trolling and become a properly-active member of the community.
dahawthorne said:
@admiralspeedy
I was very gratified when I noticed that I'd overnight become a Senior Member - until I realised that it had nothing to do with the wisdom I'd imparted in my posts, but only that I'd posted 100. So seniority doesn't imply knowledge, which I think you're beginning to demonstrate in this thread as well as in another where I've seen this same strange unnecessarily belligerent attitude.
TheWacoKid is asking for help, which I'd be happy to offer if I had any ideas. I feel absolutely no desire to tell him that he has no idea what he's doing. And nor should you.
Stop trolling and become a properly-active member of the community.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, I wouldn't have jumped on him like that if he hadn't come out swinging with snarky comments when people tried to help him.
admiralspeedy said:
You know some magic we don't? There is no way you've flashed a ROM with ADB...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look, I came on here to discuss a situation and or problem, which is what I thought this web site was known for, which I havent run into before, in that way not only do I get some help and or suggestions which might help me but help others at the same time who might have the same problem and or will have in the future and find possible solutions! If you don't have anything positive to add to the conversation/situation/problem at hand you are wasting my time, others time and most of all just making a fool out of yourself being childish and immature. Most on here come for solutions not looking to nitpick and try and belittle others like they know everything, which you don't, otherwise you would have given a solution! So you can continue to act like a troll or just leave the situation be and by the way, you ever hear of ADB Sideload??
Use method 2 , you will get everything definitely
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/general/guide-flash-factory-images-nexus-6shamu-t2954008
TheWacoKid said:
Look, I came on here to discuss a situation and or problem, which is what I thought this web site was known for, which I havent run into before, in that way not only do I get some help and or suggestions which might help me but help others at the same time who might have the same problem and or will have in the future and find possible solutions! If you don't have anything positive to add to the conversation/situation/problem at hand you are wasting my time, others time and most of all just making a fool out of yourself being childish and immature. Most on here come for solutions not looking to nitpick and try and belittle others like they know everything, which you don't, otherwise you would have given a solution! So you can continue to act like a troll or just leave the situation be and by the way, you ever hear of ADB Sideload??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm "belittling" you because your first two replies to someone who tried to help you were snarky and rude. In your own words, get a grip.
admiralspeedy said:
Actually, I wouldn't have jumped on him like that if he hadn't come out swinging with snarky comments when people tried to help him.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Time for you to go back and read some more...
You can flash a ROM with adb... Now unless you can help him... Shaddyup
rignfool said:
Time for you to go back and read some more...
You can flash a ROM with adb... Now unless you can help him... Shaddyup
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, you can use ADB sideload to flash a ROM which requires you to be in the recovery. Standard ADB cannot be used to flash a ROM.
admiralspeedy said:
I'm "belittling" you because your first two replies to someone who tried to help you were snarky and rude. In your own words, get a grip.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amazing to any one with half a brain how you a Troll can think from typed response that someone is yelling, swinging, snarky and rude but your the one with an attitude that is all the above because like I said your a childish troll! I can't believe this site would even allow someone like you to be a member paid or otherwise! Your attitude is all your own and based on your own weak assumptions! Now go back to playing with your legos!
drmuruga said:
Use method 2 , you will get everything definitely
https://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/general/guide-flash-factory-images-nexus-6shamu-t2954008
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I've used both of those methods, I have even tried just flashing individual parts all by themselves to see if just one part would give an error of some kind while flashing, no errors on any flash of any kind, the only difference being that if I read them correctly that on those methods it said to wipe data factory reset in recovery, before reboot, the Flashall bat file reboots automatically into image just flashed, I usually reboot as last command, if that makes any difference, I've even tried wiping then just flashing the new bootloader after a wipe, because it basically acts like a security checkpoint and partition manager, then rebooting and flashing the rest of one of the google firmware versions for the nexus 6.
TheWacoKid said:
Thanks, I've used both of those methods, I have even tried just flashing individual parts all by themselves to see if just one part would give an error of some kind while flashing, no errors on any flash of any kind, the only difference being that if I read them correctly that on those methods it said to wipe data factory reset in recovery, before reboot, the Flashall bat file reboots automatically into image just flashed, I usually reboot as last command, if that makes any difference, I've even tried wiping then just flashing the new bootloader after a wipe, because it basically acts like a security checkpoint and partition manager, then rebooting and flashing the rest of one of the google firmware versions for the nexus 6.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So was there a solution? The thread just ended. I also have this problem but I'm no where as technical as thewacokid.
But I do know how to follow steps

Help reflashing stock Android

Hello.
My Nexus 6 is out of warranty, so I'm doing my best to get it working myself because I can't get it replaced for free.
So, several months ago, my Nexus 6 (running Android 6.0.1 MOB30O) restarted on its own and showed a "Device is corrupt" message before booting (information at g.co/ABH; red error). I was concerned about the security of my device, so I performed a factory reset. Upon trying to set the phone up again, I found that after connecting to Wi-Fi, the phone would loop indefinitely while periodically saying that Google Play Services has crashed. I once tried leaving it overnight while it was "Checking connection" or whatever, and it still did not move to the next phase of setup. I have tried this on several different networks, and when I intentionally use a wrong password, the phone doesn't connect. So, I have no reason to believe the Wi-Fi connection is the problem. I have tried performing a factory reset from Android Recovery dozens of times, and it still doesn't work. So, I'm effectively limited to the boot menu to interact with my phone (so, I can't access Developer Options because I can't set up my phone). Also, most of the times I boot up my phone, I still get that red error during boot.
So, I've been trying to reflash stock Android. I tried using Nexus Root Toolkit to do that several times, and it never works (I get to a part in the process where it says to set up the phone and enable Developer Options, but I still can't set up the phone). I then decided I would try to do it myself since that tool wasn't fixing the problem. I am able to get ADB connected using the "Apply update from ADB" option within Android Recovery, but whenever I try to sideload one of the Shamu factory images, I get a C++ (I think) error:
Code:
loading: 'C:\Users\dpowell\Downloads\shamu-mob30o.zip'...
terminate called after throwing an instance of 'std::bad_alloc'
what(): std::bad_alloc
This application has requested the Runtime to terminate it in an unusual way.
Please contact the application's support team for more information.
I just updated all the ADB-related stuff from within Android Studio, so it all should be up-to-date.
So, I don't know what to try next. I've used Nexus Root Toolkit to root my Nexus 7 successfully, but I've never tried to modify my Nexus 6 before it stopped working. Regardless of what images I try to put onto the Nexus 6, it always shows MOB30O as the current image in the bootload menu.
Any thoughts or suggestions? I really would like to get this device working again, and Motorola would charge me $170 to replace it because it's not under warranty anymore.
Thank you for your help.
dpowell11 said:
Hello.
My Nexus 6 is out of warranty, so I'm doing my best to get it working myself because I can't get it replaced for free.
So, several months ago, my Nexus 6 (running Android 6.0.1 MOB30O) restarted on its own and showed a "Device is corrupt" message before booting (information at g.co/ABH; red error). I was concerned about the security of my device, so I performed a factory reset. Upon trying to set the phone up again, I found that after connecting to Wi-Fi, the phone would loop indefinitely while periodically saying that Google Play Services has crashed. I once tried leaving it overnight while it was "Checking connection" or whatever, and it still did not move to the next phase of setup. I have tried this on several different networks, and when I intentionally use a wrong password, the phone doesn't connect. So, I have no reason to believe the Wi-Fi connection is the problem. I have tried performing a factory reset from Android Recovery dozens of times, and it still doesn't work. So, I'm effectively limited to the boot menu to interact with my phone (so, I can't access Developer Options because I can't set up my phone). Also, most of the times I boot up my phone, I still get that red error during boot.
So, I've been trying to reflash stock Android. I tried using Nexus Root Toolkit to do that several times, and it never works (I get to a part in the process where it says to set up the phone and enable Developer Options, but I still can't set up the phone). I then decided I would try to do it myself since that tool wasn't fixing the problem. I am able to get ADB connected using the "Apply update from ADB" option within Android Recovery, but whenever I try to sideload one of the Shamu factory images, I get a C++ (I think) error:
I just updated all the ADB-related stuff from within Android Studio, so it all should be up-to-date.
So, I don't know what to try next. I've used Nexus Root Toolkit to root my Nexus 7 successfully, but I've never tried to modify my Nexus 6 before it stopped working. Regardless of what images I try to put onto the Nexus 6, it always shows MOB30O as the current image in the bootload menu.
Any thoughts or suggestions? I really would like to get this device working again, and Motorola would charge me $170 to replace it because it's not under warranty anymore.
Thank you for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello,
The error you get from adb is coming from a problem with latest ADB Rev.25.0.4
Check this: https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/37139736
In Android studio are you able to revert to a previous version, no?
Rev.25.0.3 should work...
I assume your bootloader is locked?!
Good luck...
5.1 said:
Hello,
The error you get from adb is coming from a problem with latest ADB Rev.25.0.4
Check this: https://issuetracker.google.com/issues/37139736
In Android studio are you able to revert to a previous version, no?
Rev.25.0.3 should work...
I assume your bootloader is locked?!
Good luck...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, my bootloader is locked.
Thank you, that fixed the ADB problem. I just saw that they actually have a Rev.25.0.5 now, so I am using that.
I tried sideloading first one of the Android 7 images, and that didn't work. So, I tried MOB30O again, and that also didn't work. Here's the error I'm getting:
Code:
E:footer is wrong
E:signature verification failed
Installation aborted.
The Shamu files I was trying to flash are the ones found at https://developers.google.com/android/images#shamu. Is this not what I'm supported to be using?
I don't know how relevant this is, but again, I'm using the "Apply update from ADB" option in Android Recovery, and all I did from my command line is "adb sideload [file]".
Thank you.
dpowell11 said:
Yes, my bootloader is locked.
Thank you, that fixed the ADB problem. I just saw that they actually have a Rev.25.0.5 now, so I am using that.
I tried sideloading first one of the Android 7 images, and that didn't work. So, I tried MOB30O again, and that also didn't work. Here's the error I'm getting:
The Shamu files I was trying to flash are the ones found at https://developers.google.com/android/images#shamu. Is this not what I'm supported to be using?
I don't know how relevant this is, but again, I'm using the "Apply update from ADB" option in Android Recovery, and all I did from my command line is "adb sideload [file]".
Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
WTF
You can't sideload a factory image
Download a proper OTA here: https://developers.google.com/android/ota#shamu
And try again.
Good luck...
5.1 said:
Hey,
WTF
You can't sideload a factory image
Download a proper OTA here: https://developers.google.com/android/ota#shamu
And try again.
Good luck...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I understand about 40% of what I'm doing. Thanks for helping.
So, I sideloaded N6F26Y, which is 7.1.1. Here is the debug info I got:
Code:
Installing update...
Target: google/shamu/shamu:7.1.1/N6F26Y/3821691:user/release-keys
Patching system image unconditionally...
E:unknown command [log]
E:unknown command [log]
Writing bootloader...
Writing radio...
script succeeded: result was [1.000000]
Install from ADB complete.
So, it looks to me like that worked, but at the top of my screen, it still says 6.0.1/MOB30O. Also, it always makes me slightly nervous to see error messages. Do I need to reboot to bootloader in order for changes to take effect? Does it look like anything went wrong?
I know that manually messing with the operating system is potentially risky, so I didn't want to continue from here without knowing if there's anything else I needed to do.
Thank you so much for your help.
dpowell11 said:
Yeah, I understand about 40% of what I'm doing. Thanks for helping.
So, I sideloaded N6F26Y, which is 7.1.1. Here is the debug info I got:
So, it looks to me like that worked, but at the top of my screen, it still says 6.0.1/MOB30O. Also, it always makes me slightly nervous to see error messages. Do I need to reboot to bootloader in order for changes to take effect? Does it look like anything went wrong?
I know that manually messing with the operating system is potentially risky, so I didn't want to continue from here without knowing if there's anything else I needed to do.
Thank you so much for your help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
You know everyone has to start somewhere. 40% is not that bad. :good:
Factory reset once again, just in case. And reboot.
Should be good now (hopefully). Let me know...
Cheers...
5.1 said:
Hey,
You know everyone has to start somewhere. 40% is not that bad. :good:
Factory reset once again, just in case. And reboot.
Should be good now (hopefully). Let me know...
Cheers...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dude. It works.
Man, this phone had been out of commission for months. I am so happy to have it working again.
Thank you very much for your help. I really appreciate it a bunch.
dpowell11 said:
Dude. It works.
Man, this phone had been out of commission for months. I am so happy to have it working again.
Thank you very much for your help. I really appreciate it a bunch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
Great! I'm glad for you...
Keep reading on this site. There's plenty of usefully threads, infos, etc...
Enjoy your phone...
Cheers...

bricked, loop, whatever but can still boot to fastboot - try lmsa

--> From Motorola, but do at your own risk, as always! <---
Lenovo Motorola Smart Assistant - "lmsa"
I've played with, and done some more research on lmsa.
I am wondering if this would help some folks here.
Please report back success or failure and your particular symptom so others will know.
NOTE: my phone is bootloader unlocked XT1900-1 One fi which OTA'ed itself up from 8.1 to 9 Oct 1 '19 security.
If you are able to back anything up, do so before you do this - if successful, it will flash your phone.
go here
https://www.motorola.com/us/lenovo-motorola-smart-assistant
and download it.
Watch the video for software issues(lower left of that page).
Install it.
Start it up.
You want flash/ rescue.
follow the instructions and put your phone into fastboot mode and connect to PC via USB.
If it offers you something(takes a minute), click the little download arrow and when it's downloaded, click rescue.
This is what it looks like for me before I would click the download arrow.
I believe this tool is for people who have a locked bootloader, never unlocked? LMSA won't recognize my device. RSD lite won't either.
Persistent memory has some value that is not overwritten by Wipe All twrp? Of course I will never relock.... just a heads up to others.
I am one of the few.... 1900-1 Fi working fine on Aug Pie factory and wanted to try ionOS. Flashed fine and working good. Now 3 carriers in my area only US Cellular has service. T-Mob--, Sprin- coverage area 10 - 0% Found as I have before No ROM other than stock for ME can get Data services to work on all three carriers in my area. So for data services trying to reflash back to stock. NO factory image successfully flashed will have modems working. For me. Tried many forms of flash modems only via fastboot, nope.
Different flavors of ADB don't help. Now I haven't tried "Hardware tools loader" style because if wrong will brick it. Unless some one has? Various forms of flashing modems, flash all scripts, ADB versions, Hardware only flash from two ROMs (which is why I am here I think) the Wipe All needed for those two roms some how did it? No blame, just for some reason can't flash back to stock. Others have but....I can't. So hoping a forward update by Motorola Factory Image will do a complete modem working Flash.
kkjb said:
I believe this tool is for people who have a locked bootloader, never unlocked? LMSA won't recognize my device. RSD lite won't either....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My phone IS bootloader unlocked - I bought it used(ebay) and it came to me that way with a fresh 8.1 It gives the usual bootloader unlocked error message on boot. It has OTA updated itself to 9 Oct 1 '19 security. I have not tried to modify it because that would prevent me from getting future OTAs.
RSDlite latest (6.2.4) does not recognize my phone. That is RSDlite's fault. I don't think it is yet capable of an A/B phone, let alone a full Treble (ours, on 9, are not full Treble, only partial but DO have A/B sets of partitions).
From the attached pic you can see it was ready to flash my phone with the latest stock ROM appropriate for my device which is a 1900-1 One fi, even though it was unlocked.
I am guessing that Motorola invented lmsa to stem the flow of trashed phones to Moto factory repair. It wouldn't surprise me if it would auto blankflash if necessary.
Try it - it only takes a minute or 2 to test! The worst it can say is "no"!
Understand, tried all the options and LMSA needs I think a stock recovery, boot, fastboot flash mode. The various options show "phone not recognized" no mode available with twrp installed to goto Factory Flash as LMSA appears to wait for in Bootloader Mode. So the drop down box screen will not appear since not recognized.
This post was just a update as you had asked for others to give their results. So going to do hand flash of factory images again, see if try many times... and some how one works
kkjb said:
Understand, tried all the options and LMSA needs I think a stock recovery, boot, fastboot flash mode. The various options show "phone not recognized" no mode available with twrp installed to goto Factory Flash as LMSA appears to wait for in Bootloader Mode. So the drop down box screen will not appear since not recognized.
This post was just a update as you had asked for others to give their results. So going to do hand flash of factory images again, see if try many times... and some how one works
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks.
Bummer this didn't work for you.
Yeah phone definitely needs to be in fastboot mode.
Hopefully it will help others.
Yeah, back when RSDlite worked you could "sledge hammer" just about anything if it would boot to fastboot! Hopefully they will upgrade it...
No Thank You, you gave me some ideas about the a/b devices thoughts. We have the odd ball not 9.0 at release device so the a/b script is different than some devices. So with the newest ROMs using fastboot "flash all zip scripts" for a/b boot slots I think the problem is factory images want something else for the modems. Oddly the factory images flash fine with no errors just that no modems...imei, wifi, blutooth. 8.0,8.1,9.0 all. Its a weird problem.
kkjb said:
No Thank You, you gave me some ideas about the a/b devices thoughts. We have the odd ball not 9.0 at release device so the a/b script is different than some devices. So with the newest ROMs using fastboot "flash all zip scripts" for a/b boot slots I think the problem is factory images want something else for the modems. Oddly the factory images flash fine with no errors just that no modems...imei, wifi, blutooth. 8.0,8.1,9.0 all. Its a weird problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I was thinking a-/b prob
If you ran the "flash all fi bat" to install ionOS it would have worked well since, with Aug 9, you were in a 2 file system phone. so i am guessing
a) you would only have success flashing a 9 stock (fi or not)
b) you would probably have to do a preliminary flash with just the stock 9 bootloader etc (the stuff before the ping. as well as maybe the 2 modem erases later in the command stack - some playing needed there...) tons of guesswork and luck needed here!
c) I found it humorous that ionOS script made b active but I hope the dev knew what he/she were doing.
edit d) so what partitions set is active after you flash your tests? ie you flash something, but what are you then booting to - unless you set something active... I don't believe there is a default - just last successful - though I assume if one fails it will try the other. Perhaps endlessly.
But, yeah, I can see why that flash went well. But of course you are then stuck with the modems they flashed and how that particular opsys planed to use them. US cellular is apparently known to be iffy on the X4 since I saw that caveat on a number of ebay x4 sales - "not guaranteed for...". And Sprint, of course is cdma but is supposedly accessible as LTE by fi??? I have zero knowledge there!!!
WARNING WHEN DEALING WITH ME - I TEND TO MAKE A POST AND THEN KEEP EDITING IT ENDLESSLY>>> SORRY!

Question Phone bricked, stuck in fastboot mode

Hi.
Updated my Pixel5a to latest android 13.
After unlocking bootloader and rooting the the phone with magisk the phone worked ok for a few days.
When suddenly after reboot it got to fastboot mode with failed to load/verify boot images error.
Tried to flash new image but every command I try now I get the "FAILED (remote: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready')" error
To make things worse i cannot switch the phone to recovery or rescue mode it always reboots to fastboot.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
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"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
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}
Please help
Nobody encountered something similar?
First time since for me since I use smartphones(10+ years), a phone gets bricked so easily without a chance to revive it.
Here is your answer brother
Sorry I missed this.
Unfortunately, it looks like your bootloader is corrupted or malfunctioning, and the only way to fix this is by replacing the mainboard. There are special software tools that can perform a low level reflash, but they are not publicly available.
I have the same issue. After a broken screen replacement, my 5a would often freeze and turn off when these two conditions were met: Not connected to power + screen turned on.
I'm not 100% sure if it was connected to the screen replacement, given the problems only started occurring ~2 weeks later.
The phone would only turn on again when connected to power, even when the battery was already at 100%.
Unfortunately, I thought it was a software issue and didn't get it fixed immediately, so after one of the crashes I was greeted by the fastboot screen from the original poster above. Mine looks exactly the same (except for serial numbers etc.).
Current status:
Locked, unrooted, vanilla Android 13. Assume it's the January OTA, but could be December.
Recovery/Rescue modes don't work, I can only get into Fastboot. Selecting recovery will reboot into Fastboot.
Questions:
Is there a way to restore Android and how? Would it require a mainboard replacement like @V0latyle suggested?
Is the user data on the phone lost, or could it be saved in the process (no recent backups)?
What's the best way to back up an unrooted+locked+vanilla Pixel phone (without Google Cloud backup, given that's not E2E encrypted, afaik)?
Thank you!
niscy said:
I have the same issue. After a broken screen replacement, my 5a would often freeze and turn off when these two conditions were met: Not connected to power + screen turned on.
I'm not 100% sure if it was connected to the screen replacement, given the problems only started occurring ~2 weeks later.
The phone would only turn on again when connected to power, even when the battery was already at 100%.
Unfortunately, I thought it was a software issue and didn't get it fixed immediately, so after one of the crashes I was greeted by the fastboot screen from the original poster above. Mine looks exactly the same (except for serial numbers etc.).
Current status:
Locked, unrooted, vanilla Android 13. Assume it's the January OTA, but could be December.
Recovery/Rescue modes don't work, I can only get into Fastboot. Selecting recovery will reboot into Fastboot.
Questions:
Is there a way to restore Android and how? Would it require a mainboard replacement like @V0latyle suggested?
Is the user data on the phone lost, or could it be saved in the process (no recent backups)?
What's the best way to back up an unrooted+locked+vanilla Pixel phone (without Google Cloud backup, given that's not E2E encrypted, afaik)?
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. If I was current when the OP happened, I would've suggested powering on with the button combo to try and get into recovery -- Hold the Power and Volume Down; make sure to try and hold it down for as long as more than a minute. If that doesn't work, I might try Android Flash Tool as Noexcusses once suggested, but that usually requires an unlocked bootloader. Still...since it's officially from Google (the phone's maker), it might have some special "magic" that it can pull of, but don't get your hopes up on that...
3. The currently accepted best method is the Swift Backup app, My Backup Pro is an old and good staple, but without root, there's not much it will be able to save. I believe Swift (can) locks it to your Google account and/or you can password protect the backups, but I'm not totally sure if they encrypt it as well as locking it in such manner; I don't believe My Backup Pro does anything like this. There's always adb commands that might be able to save a little bit more, but again, not by much without root access. And I don't think any unrooted backup method bothers to back up the non-system internal storage.
Sorry for your troubles and hopefully you get it all back up and running! And not to be to "scoldy", but it's always a good idea to back things up (I usually do when I manually update the firmware & security updates each month); I know it's a bit harder to remember when it's an update OTA because it's a lot less involved, but it can be a good trigger to remind to...
simplepinoi177 said:
And not to be to "scoldy", but it's always a good idea to back things up
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree... I had it on my todo list forever, but I just couldn't find a good way to back it up without root. And I didn't want root, because in the past that has prevented certain apps from working (e.g., some banking apps would see it as a security issue and refuse to start) and it has created trouble with OTAs.
Will look into this "Swift" app then. It's a shame, this is so trivial with iPhones (fully encrypted iTunes backups).
simplepinoi177 said:
Hold the Power and Volume Down
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That combo takes me to Fastboot, but when I select "Recovery" from there, the phone just reboots into Fastboot again with the same errors. I can see the phone in "fastboot devices", though.
simplepinoi177 said:
Android Flash Tool as Noexcusses once suggested
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android Flash Tool = the thing that you run in the browser, by clicking the "Flash" link on the Google website? Is that better than adb/fastboot?
Also, do you mean for side-loading the OTA (see https://developers.google.com/android/ota)? I thought that required access to recovery?
Or are you talking about flashing the factory image (https://developers.google.com/android/images#barbet)? I haven't tried that, yet, but I assumed it would wipe my user data?
EDIT: I see the device in the Android Flash Tool, says "connected". It's in Fastboot mode and showing OP's screen. Let's see what I can do from here.
EDIT2: OUCH.
niscy said:
I have the same issue. After a broken screen replacement, my 5a would often freeze and turn off when these two conditions were met: Not connected to power + screen turned on.
I'm not 100% sure if it was connected to the screen replacement, given the problems only started occurring ~2 weeks later.
The phone would only turn on again when connected to power, even when the battery was already at 100%.
Unfortunately, I thought it was a software issue and didn't get it fixed immediately, so after one of the crashes I was greeted by the fastboot screen from the original poster above. Mine looks exactly the same (except for serial numbers etc.).
Current status:
Locked, unrooted, vanilla Android 13. Assume it's the January OTA, but could be December.
Recovery/Rescue modes don't work, I can only get into Fastboot. Selecting recovery will reboot into Fastboot.
Questions:
Is there a way to restore Android and how? Would it require a mainboard replacement like @V0latyle suggested?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With a locked bootloader, the only thing you can try to do is sideload an OTA, but if you can't get into recovery mode, I'm not sure there's anything you can do - a locked bootloader will reject commands such as boot, which would be useful in this case to live boot a good image...but if the bootloader was unlocked, you'd just be able to reflash /boot anyway
niscy said:
Is the user data on the phone lost, or could it be saved in the process (no recent backups)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately I believe nothing can be done to save it or back it up. If you could get into recovery and sideload an OTA, user data would be preserved, but since you can't get into recovery, that point is moot, because it looks like your only option to get the device working again is to have it repaired, which would most likely involve mainboard replacement and complete loss of all user data (except what was already backed up into the Google cloud)
niscy said:
What's the best way to back up an unrooted+locked+vanilla Pixel phone (without Google Cloud backup, given that's not E2E encrypted, afaik)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is none. Google cloud backup is the best way, but even this can't back up app data, and there is no way to back up app data without root, because of Scoped Storage - no app can access any other app's "private" data without root permissions.
simplepinoi177 said:
1. If I was current when the OP happened, I would've suggested powering on with the button combo to try and get into recovery -- Hold the Power and Volume Down; make sure to try and hold it down for as long as more than a minute. If that doesn't work, I might try Android Flash Tool as Noexcusses once suggested, but that usually requires an unlocked bootloader. Still...since it's officially from Google (the phone's maker), it might have some special "magic" that it can pull of, but don't get your hopes up on that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the only thing that is required is that OEM Unlocking be enabled in developer options. If it is not, the Flash Tool won't work.
simplepinoi177 said:
3. The currently accepted best method is the Swift Backup app, My Backup Pro is an old and good staple, but without root, there's not much it will be able to save. I believe Swift (can) locks it to your Google account and/or you can password protect the backups, but I'm not totally sure if they encrypt it as well as locking it in such manner; I don't believe My Backup Pro does anything like this. There's always adb commands that might be able to save a little bit more, but again, not by much without root access. And I don't think any unrooted backup method bothers to back up the non-system internal storage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again, due to scoped storage, root permissions would be required to access any other app's private data to effect a "full" backup.
niscy said:
Will look into this "Swift" app then. It's a shame, this is so trivial with iPhones (fully encrypted iTunes backups).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can boot into system, you'd be better off using Google Cloud Storage because at least that would back up device settings. Swift Backup won't do this, and is otherwise only able to access "generic" data - phone logs, texts, external storage, etc.
niscy said:
That combo takes me to Fastboot, but when I select "Recovery" from there, the phone just reboots into Fastboot again with the same errors. I can see the phone in "fastboot devices", though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you're toast, bud.
niscy said:
Android Flash Tool = the thing that you run in the browser, by clicking the "Flash" link on the Google website? Is that better than adb/fastboot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it's just a GUI alternative that only flashes official images. As I mentioned above this only works if OEM unlocking is enabled, or the bootloader is unlocked. A locked bootloader rejects commands like flash, boot, and update, so the flash tool unlocks the bootloader first (if not already unlocked) before proceeding with the flash.
niscy said:
Also, do you mean for side-loading the OTA (see https://developers.google.com/android/ota)? I thought that required access to recovery?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it does.
niscy said:
Or are you talking about flashing the factory image (https://developers.google.com/android/images#barbet)? I haven't tried that, yet, but I assumed it would wipe my user data?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can only do this with an unlocked bootloader. Even though it's the factory image, as I mentioned a couple times already, the commands necessary to flash the image are rejected by a locked bootloader.
As for wiping data, this only happens if you use the included script without editing out the -w. Some people with unlocked bootloaders prefer to update using the script, they just change it so it doesn't wipe data. I personally prefer updating using the factory image but I do everything manually through fastboot and ADB because I'm stubbornly old fashioned.
niscy said:
I agree... I had it on my todo list forever, but I just couldn't find a good way to back it up without root. And I didn't want root, because in the past that has prevented certain apps from working (e.g., some banking apps would see it as a security issue and refuse to start) and it has created trouble with OTAs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just so you know, there are ways & methods to keep apps from detecting root; I would say (as far as Pixel 2XL, Pixel 5, and Pixel 7's are concerned) about 95% of apps could be made to hide root from; I get Wallet, 3 banking apps, Netflix, Xfinity apps, & certain games which all shouldn't work with a rooted device to work. And, usually, if for some reason hidden detection stops working, it usually is worked on and works again within a short amount of time.
niscy said:
Android Flash Tool = the thing that you run in the browser, by clicking the "Flash" link on the Google website? Is that better than adb/fastboot?
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Click to collapse
Surprisingly, it is a thing you run from the browser...! It surprised the heck out of me too! I would've thought it was a tool you actually download and run... Be aware you most likely need like 3-4GB+ free on your system (usually C drive...
niscy said:
Also, do you mean for side-loading the OTA (see https://developers.google.com/android/ota)? I thought that required access to recovery?
Or are you talking about flashing the factory image (https://developers.google.com/android/images#barbet)? I haven't tried that, yet, but I assumed it would wipe my user data?
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Click to collapse
I am talking about neither of those as they require you to have access to recovery mode and/or require an unlocked bootloader...
niscy said:
EDIT: I see the device in the Android Flash Tool, says "connected". It's in Fastboot mode and showing OP's screen. Let's see what I can do from here.
EDIT2: OUCH.
View attachment 5813733
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Hey! At least that's something! And hopefully, at least it's not a total loss...could be worse; you might've/could've had to wait while a repair shop completely replaced the motherboard.
If you end up having to wipe the device to recover, consider the worst case scenario where they replace the motherboard...it would mean a wiped device anyway....
Okay guys, thank you for the help so far @V0latyle @simplepinoi177
This is where I'm now:
It only gives me the "wipe" warning when I select the "Lock Bootloader" box, otherwise it directly proceeds to download the image without giving the warning.
How come I'm getting this far while I'm in Fastboot? Am I on the right path?
The image download failed a few times due to supposedly insufficient disk space (a lie). Turns out the problem was Incognito mode, seems that has restrictions that break the flash tool.
But now I'm getting the below instead after the image downloaded. Does that mean that the tool won't work, because my device is locked?
Flash Failed
Fastboot command (flash:bootloader_b) failed: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready'
niscy said:
Okay guys, thank you for the help so far @V0latyle @simplepinoi177
This is where I'm now:
View attachment 5813743
It only gives me the "wipe" warning when I select the "Lock Bootloader" box, otherwise it directly proceeds to download the image without giving the warning.
How come I'm getting this far while I'm in Fastboot? Am I on the right path?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See if you can get away with not checking "wipe device" or "lock[ing] bootloader"...
It automatically downloads the factory image -- that's why I said you have to have 3-4GB free on your hard drive...
You get that far because the AFT works in fastboot, and you luckily are still able to see fastboot in your device manager & be in fastboot mode...
I'd say you are on the right path....at least a lot more hopeful than replacing your mobo. But if all doesn't work, you may be required to wipe the device and/or lock the bootloader as well...
Seems the next thing I would have to try is re-running the Flash Tool with the "Wipe device" and "Lock bootloader" boxes checked?
Just to confirm, would the motherboard replacement require a user data wipe? If yes, then I guess I have nothing to lose at this point.
niscy said:
The image download failed a few times due to supposedly insufficient disk space (a lie). Turns out the problem was Incognito mode, seems that has restrictions that break the flash tool.
But now I'm getting the below instead after the image downloaded. Does that mean that the tool won't work, because my device is locked?
Flash Failed
Fastboot command (flash:bootloader_b) failed: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready'
View attachment 5813745
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, unfortunately this is bad news...
Most likely, I imagine and maybe @V0latyle can concur and/or elaborate, but it is most likely due to you not having OEM unlock ticked in the Developer Mode and an unlocked bootloader -- I stated before, but wasn't exactly sure as I've never tried it not on an unlocked bootloader, but that tool most likely doesn't work without having an unlocked bootloader (& thus also having OEM unlocked ticked as well)...I was just holding out hope that, since it was an official Google tool, it might've been able to do something for you (especially considering you could still see it as a fastboot device in your device manager)....
niscy said:
Seems the next thing I would have to try is re-running the Flash Tool with the "Wipe device" and "Lock bootloader" boxes checked?
Just to confirm, would the motherboard replacement require a user data wipe? If yes, then I guess I have nothing to lose at this point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, motherboard replacement requires a user data wipe. I'm unsure if the technician either does this just as policy/practice, or if after installing the new mobo, the Android OS requires it...but I imagine it is the latter...
It might be worth a try to check those boxes, but most likely will not work. Your bootloader is already locked, so "lock[ing] bootloader" is kinda redundant and wouldn't be necessary for it to work...
Okay guys, I think I'm officially ****ed. No matter what boxes I check, I get the error mentioned above ("Fastboot command (flash:bootloader_b) failed: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready'").
But even worse, I checked with some repair shop and they told me they won't even do motherboard replacements for out-of-warranty devices (because thieves would often use this service to "refurbish" stolen phones).
So I can't even get the motherboard replaced, unless I do it myself? **** my life.
niscy said:
Okay guys, I think I'm officially ****ed. No matter what boxes I check, I get the error mentioned above ("Fastboot command (flash:bootloader_b) failed: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready'").
But even worse, I checked with some repair shop and they told me they won't even do motherboard replacements for out-of-warranty devices (because thieves would often use this service to "refurbish" stolen phones).
So I can't even get the motherboard replaced, unless I do it myself? **** my life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry to hear that it didn't work out...was a long shot...
Is there a uBreakiFix anywhere near you (they are the official repair company for Google)? If not, would it be possible to ship them the unit? Talk to Google versus talking to "some repair shop" (unless that repair shop you talked to was uBreakiFix, then that might be the policy; but I doubt it. Doesn't sound reasonable. I might try another store; even if you have to ship it to a distant one)...
Or course this all means you will have to spend $$$ to get it repaired, so be prepared for that...
niscy said:
Seems the next thing I would have to try is re-running the Flash Tool with the "Wipe device" and "Lock bootloader" boxes checked?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would have no effect on whether the tool works
niscy said:
Just to confirm, would the motherboard replacement require a user data wipe? If yes, then I guess I have nothing to lose at this point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All the storage lives in the flash devices, which live on the mainboard. A new mainboard would be preloaded with firmware, and would have to be programmed with your IMEI, but it would be like getting a brand new phone - no user data whatsoever.
simplepinoi177 said:
Yes, unfortunately this is bad news...
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Click to collapse
Well, hold on. We've got a lot of people all responding at once. @niscy if you could, hold off for a bit until we can get to the bottom of what your device state is and what you can and can't do.
simplepinoi177 said:
Most likely, I imagine and maybe @V0latyle can concur and/or elaborate, but it is most likely due to you not having OEM unlock ticked in the Developer Mode and an unlocked bootloader
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Click to collapse
Yes, one of these is required to use the Android Flash Tool (although if the bootloader is unlocked, OEM Unlocking is default "on"
simplepinoi177 said:
-- I stated before, but wasn't exactly sure as I've never tried it not on an unlocked bootloader, but that tool most likely doesn't work without having an unlocked bootloader (& thus also having OEM unlocked ticked as well)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The bootloader doesn't have to start unlocked; as long as OEM Unlocking is enabled, the Flash Tool will automatically unlock the bootloader and perform the flash. I'm pretty sure this results in a data wipe.
simplepinoi177 said:
I was just holding out hope that, since it was an official Google tool, it might've been able to do something for you (especially considering you could still see it as a fastboot device in your device manager)....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Negative, the Flash Tool is simply a GUI interface for ADB Platform Tools and uses the same commands. Since, as I have explained multiple times, a locked bootloader rejects several commands required to flash the device, OEM Unlocking would have to be enabled at the very least to use the tool, which would then unlock the bootloader so that the commands will work.
The only "Google approved" way to update ALL devices regardless of OEM lock or bootloader lock is via OTA, because either update_engine in Android system, or the recovery kernel, is able to verify the update package. The bootloader is not capable of verifying packages applied externally; it can only compare certain partitions (such as /boot) against reference hashes (vbmeta images), which is why it's designed to reject all flashing and booting commands while locked
To be able to perform a complete factory reflash on a locked bootloader, the bootloader would have to have the ability to analyze and verify the entire update package, and it simply does not have the resources to do this. Bootloader only has three jobs:
Verify boot images
Load boot images
Provide USB interface (and must be unlocked to flash anything)
simplepinoi177 said:
Yes, motherboard replacement requires a user data wipe. I'm unsure if the technician either does this just as policy/practice, or if after installing the new mobo, the Android OS requires it...but I imagine it is the latter...
It might be worth a try to check those boxes, but most likely will not work. Your bootloader is already locked, so "lock[ing] bootloader" is kinda redundant and wouldn't be necessary for it to work...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I explained, it's because you'd essentially be getting a brand new phone that has never had user data on it. Wiping data on the old mainboard is unnecessary, but most repair centers don't have a way to transfer user data.
@niscy Before you go any further, let's establish where exactly "Square One" is. Please answer these questions:
Are you able to boot into Android system? Is recovery the only thing not working?
What have you tried to get into recovery mode?
When you attempt to boot into recovery, do you see an error message at the bottom of the bootloader screen?
Do you have any particular issue with backing up your data to Google Cloud if that option is possible?
V0latyle said:
1) Are you able to boot into Android system? Is recovery the only thing not working?
2) What have you tried to get into recovery mode?
3) When you attempt to boot into recovery, do you see an error message at the bottom of the bootloader screen?
4) Do you have any particular issue with backing up your data to Google Cloud if that option is possible?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Can't get into Android system, just Fastboot.
2) Select recovery from Fastboot mode with the volume keys. I also tried "fastboot reboot recovery" (doesn't seem to work on the 5a). It doesn't make a difference how I get into fastboot (just turning it on vs. voldown + power key combo).
3) Screen just goes black and stays black for 30-60 seconds or so. Then it goes back to the fastboot screen.
4) While setting it up, the explanations in Android suggested that it was not fully end-to-end encrypted. However, I found some articles online that say the opposite. So maybe I just got confused by ambiguous language.
EDIT: flashing without the Android Flash Tool fails too, obviously...
barbet-tq1a.230105.001 % ./flash-all.sh
Sending 'bootloader_b' (8762 KB) OKAY [ 0.350s]
Writing 'bootloader_b' FAILED (remote: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready')
fastboot: error: Command failed
Rebooting into bootloader OKAY [ 0.080s]
Finished. Total time: 0.080s
EDIT2: Seems there's enough E2E encryption in Google backups ... see https://blog.elcomsoft.com/2021/01/...n-apple-icloud-google-and-microsoft-accounts/
V0latyle said:
As I explained, it's because you'd essentially be getting a brand new phone that has never had user data on it. Wiping data on the old mainboard is unnecessary, but most repair centers don't have a way to transfer user data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting...I am aware that, for computers, replacing the motherboard doesn't necessarily touch data because that's usually stored on the hard drive. I figure the internal storage on a smartphone might be set up similarly and have it separated in something the same way (i.e. I imagine it's something similar to a microsd internal circuitry), and thus might not be touched simply by replacing the mobo. I wasn't insinuating that the repair centers would wipe old data that they were going to toss anyway; thought it was separate from the mobo and could possibly survive the exchange.
Thanks for clarifying! Also, I posted this here instead of PMing it because it is somewhat useful information that might help someone else understand things better (like me)...but I do apologize for the off-topic...
I just went back and read your first post. Failure to load/verify boot images means there's a dm-verity issue - as I mentioned previously, the bootloader verifies the integrity of the boot image as it's loaded; this prevents things like persistent rootkits. In this case, it's coming up against an error - the hash of the boot image does not match the verification hash in /vbmeta, probably because it somehow got corrupted during the update. With an unlocked bootloader this would be a fairly simple fix - just reflash /boot - but with a locked bootloader, this is pretty much impossible to fix.
niscy said:
1) Can't get into Android system, just Fastboot.
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Click to collapse
Yeah, because as described above, the boot image is corrupted, and unfortunately, the boot image also contains recovery.
niscy said:
2) Select recovery from Fastboot mode with the volume keys. I also tried "fastboot reboot recovery" (doesn't seem to work on the 5a). It doesn't make a difference how I get into fastboot (just turning it on vs. voldown + power key combo).
3) Screen just goes black and stays black for 30-60 seconds or so. Then it goes back to the fastboot screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure why the screen goes black for a while, it should just recycle back to the bootloader screen immediately
niscy said:
4) While setting it up, the explanations in Android suggested that it was not fully end-to-end encrypted. However, I found some articles online that say the opposite. So maybe I just got confused by ambiguous language.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. I won't be one of those people who advocates for using a product you don't believe in, but you also have to consider benefit vs risk - in this case, you really don't want to use your data, but you didn't implement an alternative for backups.
niscy said:
EDIT: flashing without the Android Flash Tool fails too, obviously...
barbet-tq1a.230105.001 % ./flash-all.sh
Sending 'bootloader_b' (8762 KB) OKAY [ 0.350s]
Writing 'bootloader_b' FAILED (remote: 'error getting device locked state Not Ready')
fastboot: error: Command failed
Rebooting into bootloader OKAY [ 0.080s]
Finished. Total time: 0.080s
EDIT2: Seems there's enough E2E encryption in Google backups ... see https://blog.elcomsoft.com/2021/01/...n-apple-icloud-google-and-microsoft-accounts/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah. At this point, I think you're pretty much limited to two options:
Pay for a repair (expensive)
Buy a new device (even more expensive)
I'm sorry there's no better answer. If OEMs like Google (or in this case, Foxconn as the manufacturer) made a point of providing low level flash tools and training to repair stations, then it might be possible to reflash the boot image. But, they don't do this for a litany of reasons, ranging from "it's cheaper to replace than to fix" to "tools like this could be used for major exploits in the wrong hands".
simplepinoi177 said:
Interesting...I am aware that, for computers, replacing the motherboard doesn't necessarily touch data because that's usually stored on the hard drive. I figure the internal storage on a smartphone might be set up similarly and have it separated in something the same way (i.e. I imagine it's something similar to a microsd internal circuitry), and thus might not be touched simply by replacing the mobo. I wasn't insinuating that the repair centers would wipe old data that they were going to toss anyway; thought it was separate from the mobo and could possibly survive the exchange.
Thanks for clarifying! Also, I posted this here instead of PMing it because it is somewhat useful information that might help someone else understand things better (like me)...but I do apologize for the off-topic...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, mobile mainboards are generally "all in one", with the SoC, modem, and storage all located on the same board. There are sometimes small daughterboards for things like camera modules and microSD/SIM card slots but for the most part everything is on the same board. All flashable storage is located on the same memory devices - this includes the most basic things such as the bootloader itself and the baseband image, as well as the system partitions, and of course the "userspace" data. Imagine if your hard drive was built into your motherboard, and also hosted your BIOS/UEFI.
There is only one more thing I can advise trying, and it will most likely not work: Try to switch back to the A slot. You can do this through fastboot: fastboot --set-active=a
Again, this is not likely to work because I believe the bootloader will reject this command as well.
An interesting note that isn't of much help right now: The whole point of A/B slots (and seamless system updates) is not just being able to update "on the fly" without booting into recovery and waiting 5-10 minutes for an update to finish, but also a "fail safe" so that if an update fails for whatever reason, the system should recycle back to the last working configuration.
Spoiler: It works like this:
Let's assume for the sake of argument you're on slot A, running the January update.
When the February update becomes available, update_engine downloads the update package, extracts it, and writes it to the inactive slot - in this case, slot B.
The bootloader is then commanded to boot slot B on the next reboot
When user reboots device, bootloader marks slot B as active and attempts to boot from that slot. There are a couple of markers here - a slot can be marked active, bootable, and successful.
Once boot proceeds past a certain point, the slot is now marked bootable. Once loaded into Android system, the boot is marked successful.
If for any reason slot B fails to boot, or crashes at a certain point, the device should automatically reboot back to slot A, and upon successful boot of Android, notify the user that the update failed.
I don't know why it failed to do that in this case. Apparently it thought slot B was both bootable and successful, and the failure didn't occur early enough to recycle back to slot A.

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