Database Info

[Q] Root and Custom ROMs - Where to start?

I'm not the person that buys a new phone every 6 months. I'm probably going to use my Nexus S for 2 years or more. And because of that, I want it optimized so that I won't get jealous at those multi-core phones.
I can optimize the OS by just downloading something like Launcher Pro, but I want more. I like applications like Adfree and ShootMe, and VooDoo sound also looks very nice. But, I want more! Custom ROMs increase the speed, and then I could always overclock. So Cyanogen Mod 7 is also on my list.
But the problem is, I don't know where to start. There are SO MANY options in the world of Android. Of course, with some Googling I can find the best Custom ROM (CM7), but the internet isnt very clear about it all. I am an average user, so I don't want to much risks. I also don't understand 'geek language' (you know what I mean ), so these forums don't help me much either.
I know how to root (there are tons of youtube videos), and I can probably find a youtube video for installing CM7 as well, but like I said, I don't know where to start. Can somebody give me a push in the right direction? I hate to ask, but I couldn't find something like a noob guide...

Go to the android development section for nexus S and all topics are covered

willcpfc said:
Go to the android development section for nexus S and all topics are covered
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm I see you can root with or without fastboot oem unlock. I know fastboot oem unlock wipes all data, but if you do it when you get your phone, that isnt a problem. Is there any other (dis)advantage?
It seems there are a lot of methods to root. What is the best one (not the fastest)? I like the one from AllGamer, but it says 'via Clockwork Mod'. I don't know what that is, or what it does. I know I look like an idiot now, but I really can't find good explanations on the internet. Everyone supposes that you know a lot of stuff already.

Androyed said:
Hmm I see you can root with or without fastboot oem unlock. I know fastboot oem unlock wipes all data, but if you do it when you get your phone, that isnt a problem. Is there any other (dis)advantage?
It seems there are a lot of methods to root. What is the best one (not the fastest)? I like the one from AllGamer, but it says 'via Clockwork Mod'. I don't know what that is, or what it does. I know I look like an idiot now, but I really can't find good explanations on the internet. Everyone supposes that you know a lot of stuff already.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All the guides get you to the same result: root and a custom recovery with the exception of distortedloop's guide which keeps the bootloader locked and avoids an initial wipe. If you read through each thread, you'll realize that they all do the same thing. Some just helps you avoid terminal work, which is as easy as retyping what you see. Just pick one and follow all the steps. No reported advantages or disadvantages to unlocking the bootloader other than the wipe you are aware of.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App

Go to theunlockr.com It has alot of beginner friendly videos.
http://theunlockr.com/category/howto/android_how_tos/nexus-s-how-tos/
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App

Thanks, both of you!
Unlocking the bootloader is needed for flashing ROMs, right? If that's true, I think I'll unlock it right away when I don't have any data/apps installed. The only thing that will suck is the ugly padlock sign when you start your phone, but who starts his phone anway...
By the way, changes a unlocked bootloader anything else except for a slightly different boot animation?
Some other questions: will you get OTA updates from Google when you have root enabled? And what if you use a Custom ROM? And what if you use a Custom Kernel? And what if you use Clockworkmod (that is a custom recovery, right?)?
And where do you need a custom kernel for? Is it only to overclock your device? I saw it is also necessary for VooDoo sound, which I like very much. Same question about Clockworkmod: if it's a custom recovery, what does it do? Is it for back-up/rom switching?

Androyed said:
Thanks, both of you!
Unlocking the bootloader is needed for flashing ROMs, right? If that's true, I think I'll unlock it right away when I don't have any data/apps installed. The only thing that will suck is the ugly padlock sign when you start your phone, but who starts his phone anway...
By the way, changes a unlocked bootloader anything else except for a slightly different boot animation?
Some other questions: will you get OTA updates from Google when you have root enabled? And what if you use a Custom ROM? And what if you use a Custom Kernel? And what if you use Clockworkmod (that is a custom recovery, right?)?
And where do you need a custom kernel for? Is it only to overclock your device? I saw it is also necessary for VooDoo sound, which I like very much. Same question about Clockworkmod: if it's a custom recovery, what does it do? Is it for back-up/rom switching?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocking the bootloader is not required for flashing roms. On previous devices, it was necessary but we have a method in distortedloop's guide which can work around that.
You can still get OTA updates with root, however updating will cause you to lose root. Custom roms usually have a script to disable OTA updates. Kernels and custom recovery will not affect OTA updates.
Custom kernels are "custom" in itself and often offer more features such as the ability to overclock, file system hacks, as well as sound/graphic hacks which may not be included in a previous developer's custom rom. It leaves room for the user to pick what is suitable for him/her.
Custom recoveries are recoveries with extended features. These features may include the ability to backup/restore, wipe device between ROM builds, and more. Its main feature which I enjoy the most, is the ability to navigate between folders of your storage and choose a ZIP file to flash. Standard recovery requires anything flashed to be in the root of your storage as well as named "update.zip". Custom recoveries eliminates this requirement and lets you keep the name of your zip files as well as organize them in folders. There are more features, but that's up to you to discover and see what you'll actually use.

And again, thanks!
After reading the post above and an awesome explanation on a dutch forum, I now know what all those 'custom' things do.
First of all, I'm interested in root. There are some very useful applications that can only be used with root. After that, I'm going to flash a kernel (not overclock it), probably Netarchy's, for some speed improvement and most important of all, voodoo sound improvement! The last looks very promising.
If I'll get bored after that, (I probably tried out dozens of homescreen replacements and their themes by then), I'm going to flash a Custom ROM, and experiment with custom ROM themes. This is probably going to be Cyanogen Mod, but I'm going to wait till a stable release comes out for the Nexus S. If I'm still bored (we are probably talking about 1.5 years ahead), I'm going to overclock for optimal performance...
This is why I love Android. Why would you buy a new device every couple of months? There is so much to tweak! When I tried to find some information about flashing ROMs, I sure have learned how many possibilities Android has. It isn't easy for the average user, but if you get something awesome like voodoo sound in return, it is defenitely worth it!

Sorry, I got still two questions left:
Custom ROMs don't change anything from the outside, right? They are only deodexed? Or is there a difference between, let's say, MoDaCo's ROM and CM7, from the outside?
I heard some Custom ROMs have certain themes, but I suppose you could just as easy install the stock Gingerbread theme when for example MoDaCo ships with a different theme. Custom ROMs support themes after all.
Also, what is the difference between a theme from a homescreen replacement and a theme from a Custom ROM? Themes from Custom ROMs can change apps, because it is a deodexed ROM, so themes will probably also change the looks of the dialer for example. And themes from homescreen replacements will only change the homescreen. But will a theme from a homescreen replacement also change the notificationbar and the icons? Or do you have to install a Custom Rom for that?
Thanks in advance!

[Q] New to root - upgrading to gingerbread?

I'm very new to rooting, I've looked at many of the Root processes and I've been a lurker for about 4 months. and i've about decided to use Bubby's for the sake of easy rooting process.
I do have a couple of questions that I cannot seem to find solid answers on.
1) If I root using bubby's method, the rom that gets installed, is that still an inspire rom? or is it a Gingerbread rom? If it is not a gingerbread rom is there one that people would suggest that I use?
2) if AT&T decides to put out the Gingerbread rom at a later date (est this summer) can I install it and maintain my root or will it remove the root? and what is the risk of upgrading?
The two major reasons that I want to root is I want to be able to use the amazon appstore, and I want to rid myself of the bloat ware. From what I've read Gingerbread is a significant improvement and I'd like to go to that version if possible.
I've previously owned an iPhone and was very disappointed even with the device jailbroken. I'm used to that process and it's really simple and no issue. This one is clearly more complex. But I'd like to limit my downtime on my device.

Obievil said:
I do have a couple of questions that I cannot seem to find solid answers on.
1) If I root using bubby's method, the rom that gets installed, is that still an inspire rom? or is it a Gingerbread rom? If it is not a gingerbread rom is there one that people would suggest that I use?
2) if AT&T decides to put out the Gingerbread rom at a later date (est this summer) can I install it and maintain my root or will it remove the root? and what is the risk of upgrading?
The two major reasons that I want to root is I want to be able to use the amazon appstore, and I want to rid myself of the bloat ware. From what I've read Gingerbread is a significant improvement and I'd like to go to that version if possible.
I've previously owned an iPhone and was very disappointed even with the device jailbroken. I'm used to that process and it's really simple and no issue. This one is clearly more complex. But I'd like to limit my downtime on my device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you root the phone, your rom will still the same old ATT rom but "unlocked". you will have to flash a GB rom to get GB. There are plenty of GB roms already here in the DEV section.
if ATT upgrades to GB, dont worry, people here will provide many upgraded rooted versions of GB for you to download.

Obievil said:
I'm very new to rooting, I've looked at many of the Root processes and I've been a lurker for about 4 months. and i've about decided to use Bubby's for the sake of easy rooting process.
I do have a couple of questions that I cannot seem to find solid answers on.
1) If I root using bubby's method, the rom that gets installed, is that still an inspire rom? or is it a Gingerbread rom? If it is not a gingerbread rom is there one that people would suggest that I use?
2) if AT&T decides to put out the Gingerbread rom at a later date (est this summer) can I install it and maintain my root or will it remove the root? and what is the risk of upgrading?
The two major reasons that I want to root is I want to be able to use the amazon appstore, and I want to rid myself of the bloat ware. From what I've read Gingerbread is a significant improvement and I'd like to go to that version if possible.
I've previously owned an iPhone and was very disappointed even with the device jailbroken. I'm used to that process and it's really simple and no issue. This one is clearly more complex. But I'd like to limit my downtime on my device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If/when you do root, I would recommend using LeeDroid's GB rom. Very stable, fast, and excellent battery life, with none of the bloat ware.
Whatever ROM you chose, make sure you read the instructions for flashing. Any questions, just post. Most people are more then willing to help.

I used Bubby's, it was pretty easy and worked fine. Here is a How To in case you don't have one...http://androidforums.com/inspire-4g-all-things-root/310442-how-root-official-guide.html
Good luck!

Thanks!
Now I just need to back up my photos/data.

Good luck
I also rooted using Bubby's method, and after two weeks or so with the (rooted) stock ROM I decided to upgrade to Gingerbread with the Android Revolution ROM. It runs smoothly, battery life isn't perfect but it's fine.
If you're going to flash ROMs with custom radios, I recommend you read this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1054304

Should I root and put CWR on?

Hey guys, it seems as though things are a bit more complicated in the Tablet world. My Android phones I rooted right away and put CWR on right away however it seems as though the latest and greatest Android updates from Asus won't work if you do so. Are there available stock roms that are released that you can flash straight to the device while keeping CWR?
Oh the Galaxy S which I use, many people released rooted stock roms where you can flash if you so choose. I haven't seen any CWR flashable stock Android 3.2 roms for the Transformer.

Absolutely not, based on your question.

You should only root if you are not satisfied with stock roms or wish to run apps that require root (superuser permissions) - and of course are willing to assume the possibility of voiding your warranty or damaging your device. If you really want the flexibility and are willing to assume the risk, then, there are rooted stock roms available. Please check the developers forum for possible roms.
Good luck with whatever you decide.

If you want to root, for whatever reason, and just keep stock there is a zip file that is released in this forum to do updates with CWR. I rooted my tf just so I could easily change my speaker settings and do backups. Just put the zip on your sd card and boot into recovery and the latest updates are applied, nice and easy. The zip update was out the day before my tf downloaded it so they come out pretty quick.
The zip is in this thread...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1234734
Cheers.

Rooting is more of a personal question. There's no definite reason to root unless you want to improve something. By stock roms I'm assuming you mean official updates from Asus, so the answer is no.
There are 3 different roms for the Transformer that are CWR flashable...I have no idea where you are looking.

[Q] new g2x help, need opinions and guidance please

hey guys, i know first thing to be said is read or use the search bar, but i need opinions and alittle help.
i just bought this phone off ebay but it was damaged and for $100 i could and did fix it for another $80 (needed to replace both the digitizer and lcd).
anyway, i know this phone is locked to tmobile. problem solved, already unlocked it with furiousgold.
next, i had the misfortune of having a xperia x10. so i know how to root and flash roms/kernels. i just wanted to know, is there a specific program to use for rooting and flashing for this phone? or can i just use superoneclick for rooting and xrecovery for flashing? (not used to clockworkmod)
and the final thing, based on experience with my x10, stock based roms always have the least or no bugs at all. i just want to know the top 2 of a stock based rom that people prefer as well as the top 2 of kernels.
i like the stock roms because it removes bloatware and has tweaks, but i'll be more than willing to check out any over the top roms that are heavily modded. the only thing with those mods are their known issues, i'll read them and know them but will rarely run into it and when i do, it makes me unhappy and flash another rom which i don't like to do constantly (did that with my x10, stuck to one rom but he stopped releasing official versions and started releasing stable betas)
thank you for your time, please dont lecture me about read or searching the search bar. i know how to use them. but, im looking for opinions and personally i dont want to scroll through dozens of pages of people complaining.

Did you try reading or searching?

Use NVFlash to gain access to CWM. You don't necessarily need root to be able to flash ROM's. Good luck.

What he said.
The g2x does not need to be rooted first like many phones. The key old using nvflasher to install clockwork an then you can flash anything you want. CWM is the only recovery you can use. I recommend version 5.0.2.0.
Sent from my LG-P999 using Tapatalk

Noob Root Question

Hi all. I want to keep this short and simple. I have the I9020A with 4.1.2, and a couple of days to spare. My phone is running OK and I am happy, but if I could improve the performance or experience it would only be better. How long does it take to root and install a new ROM (or so they call it) like CM 10.1, for a beginner like me? And, very briefly in one sentence, what are the main benefits from rooting and gains I could see from a ROM like CM 10.1?

Do you have any previous experience with rooting?
I got my phone last week (had experience with two previous phones and it took me 30 minutes to have it rooted, cwm-ed and cm10.1-ed. nexusshacks.com helped me very much

OnlySkills said:
Hi all. I want to keep this short and simple. I have the I9020A with 4.1.2, and a couple of days to spare. My phone is running OK and I am happy, but if I could improve the performance or experience it would only be better. How long does it take to root and install a new ROM (or so they call it) like CM 10.1, for a beginner like me? And, very briefly in one sentence, what are the main benefits from rooting and gains I could see from a ROM like CM 10.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
About an hour for an average total beginner to figure out how, then only 10minutes to flash a new pre-rooted rom. Read the changelog of your desired ROM so you know why you're flashing it, read their corresponding threads.
The main reason i first rooted my nexus s is because i heard it was the best-sounding android phone due to its built-in wolfson amplifier, and the only way to unleash it's true power is by rooting and installing voodoo sound app. Another thing is, custom roms provide the feature where you can use the volume buttons to seek music tracks. So for a music lover like me, i really benefit from custom roms.

A few things, the first step you will have to do is unlock the bootloader. That one setup will wipe all partitions back to a factory state (just stock OS of what ever variety you are on). Be prepared, you can back up your sdcard via a PC, and use the new app carbon to backup your user apps and data if you like (it is the only app that can do that for an unrooted user that I know of). There benefits to rooting, but we would have to know what you hope to gain with it to let you know if it is worth it for you. Most of us that root and rom do it for one reason, to get a better user experience. So a boost in performance or battery life. Added user options within android like notification power control buttons or added lockscreen targets.

No I actually don't have any previous experience with rooting (the most I've done is manually installed an update). And I am glad to hear that it takes around an hour, I thought it'd take a day. As long as it gives me better performance and a few extra features, I'm down for it!
So after I unlock the bootloader, what do I do next regarding the ROM and kernel? Do I just need a ROM, or do I have to get a new "kernel" too? And how come some ROMS are named after 4.2.2 (or the latest version), whereas others like CM is at version 10.1? I am thinking of getting CM 10.1 because that's the most I hear about, I hope it is stable and good. Any thoughts?

Writing from memory (I only did it once, yes it is that simple):
1. Unlock bootloader
2. Install a recovery (Never used anything else than ClockworkMod)
3. Install ROM.
Everything is reversible, in case you need to take it to the service. Also, don't get scared if something goes a bit wrong. For example, the first time I rebooted into recovery, the phone showed a red triangle. But I remained calm, searched about what was happening and I found the solution. Just always be careful to flash only device specific stuff. Be aware: there is nexus s and nexus s 4G!
This is the video that helped me very much, from start to end: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=4AHucGBZHMQ
Edit: i forgot to mention, do an efs backup. Needless to say i also forgot to make it...

Hi guys. I have successfully rooted my Nexus S now, using this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007782&page=3&nocache=1
Also thanks for that video posted above, it helped me in some places. It took a while, I'd say about 2 hours in total because I ran into some issues..(those instructions should really be updated)
Anyways, I have 4.1.2 atm..and on the ROMs under Android Development, they all say [4.2.2] .. does this mean I have to be on 4.2.2 to install these? I thought 4.2.2 wasn't available for the NS..

AW: Noob Root Question
OnlySkills said:
Hi guys. I have successfully rooted my Nexus S now, using this: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1007782&page=3&nocache=1
Also thanks for that video posted above, it helped me in some places. It took a while, I'd say about 2 hours in total because I ran into some issues..(those instructions should really be updated)
Anyways, I have 4.1.2 atm..and on the ROMs under Android Development, they all say [4.2.2] .. does this mean I have to be on 4.2.2 to install these? I thought 4.2.2 wasn't available for the NS..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It doesnt matter on which version you are on atm, you can flash whatever version you like!
4.2.2 is officially not available for the ns but as you can see we have amazing devs which make it work anyway...

4I-I said:
It doesnt matter on which version you are on atm, you can flash whatever version you like!
4.2.2 is officially not available for the ns but as you can see we have amazing devs which make it work anyway...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you!! I just flashed CM 10.1 Nightly...loving it atm! It has exactly those features that I wanted..Phone runs overall better too (at least for now).
Thanks everybody..great help!