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I just got the Captivate about a month ago. Had a regular phone for about a year, touch screen went out, bought a replacement digitizer but knew it was a temporary fix anyway and wanted a new phone. Convinced the maternal unit to use her contract extension to get me a new phone, and snagged the Captivate for $30 from RadioShack. My first Android phone, and I have to say I'm horribly disappointed, but I guess I'm doing something wrong here.
First two or three weeks, my mom had the phone and got to play around with it for a while. Wasn't until the 29th that I got the phone, and I just played around with it for a week and got all the apps I deemed useful and worthwhile. Eventually realized I couldn't use Flash in the browser, nor Skype, etc., without upgrading to 2.2.
So, I went through the tutorial Samsung provided, watched videos on Youtube just to be sure, but followed everything Samsung's tutorial said word for word. ... only for my phone to end up completely screwed up. Gallery, Browser, Music Player, Video Player, and many other default applications were missing. Now I'm smart enough with technology to think, okay, something's wrong. I knew about the factory reset, so I went to go to settings to do that, and realized. ... oh wait, the Settings menu is also missing. Wonderful. There was no "Settings" button in the Applications list, and if I tried getting to it from the menu button, it simply did nothing at all.
Found Odin, flashed back to 2.1, and then factory reset and got rid of every application I had and etc., so that absolutely nothing was on it, basically a stock phone. Tried upgrading again fresh, still following the instructions very closely. Same problem occurred, and I was pissed. Gave up on 2.2, tried flashing back to 2.1 /again/ with Odin, only for my phone to decide it didn't want to enter download mode anymore. Forced it using 'adb reboot download', but alas, it locked up in the middle of flashing back to 2.1 and wouldn't do anything. I waited about 30 minutes to see if it'd resume the flashing process at all, but nothing, so I regrettably had to disconnect the USB cable and hard brick the phone (wouldn't turn on or anything).
Still under warranty, so I replaced it from RadioShack, and now have a new Captivate. Went ahead and installed all the applications I needed, used the Sideload Wonder Machine to install a few third-party applications, had no problem doing that for a while. Didn't bother attempting to upgrade. However, my computer got a trojan and deleted the MBR. Repaired using the XP boot disc, but it meant I was back on SP2. After installing every last one of the damn updates all over again, I decided to check up on some new applications to install via sideloading.
Hooked up my phone, it detected all the new hardware again since the drivers seemingly were also lost amongst everything else during the repair, only for it to encounter an error on the "Samsung Android Composite ADB Interface". So, I uninstalled the drivers, tried installing them manually. Hooked up the phone, but it still wanted to try to install that one driver and failed. I've restarted my computer, uninstalled the drivers, attempted manually installing them through device manager, you name it. Still can't get it to work -- it keeps having a fatal error every time. However, it's only when my phone has USB Debugging on. Installs every single driver perfectly fine when it's off, in MTP/Mass Storage/Kies mode. Just has a "fatal error" in USB Debugging on that one driver.
tl;dr, the drivers are broken on my computer and I can't fix them despite actually /not/ being computer illiterate. And, I kind of still want 2.2, but apparently the stock 2.2 update is a pain in the rear end and I no longer have a warranty through RadioShack now, so I can't risk bricking my phone due to a faulty update process. Any suggestions?
err, the only thing you should have needed to do was install the latest version of Kies, plugged the phone in, it would have prompted you to do the update. It's quite painless..
Edit: Sorry irrelevant
sw411 said:
err, the only thing you should have needed to do was install the latest version of Kies, plugged the phone in, it would have prompted you to do the update. It's quite painless..
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Click to collapse
At the time I tried, Kies itself didn't support the Captivate. Only Kies mini. And in order to do that upgrade, I had to install the drivers, then put the phone into download mode to install more drivers for some odd reason, restart the phone (taking out the battery and putting it back in), then hook it up. Kies mini wouldn't detect the phone for several tries at first, finally got it about the 10th time in. Then go to the "Upgrade phone" link, and yeah. I followed the instructions from Samsung's official SGH-i897 Froyo upgrade guide.
I did EXACTLY as the instructions say, down to the wire. Still ended up both times with all those applications missing and the settings panel missing, unable to do a factory reset without flashing back to 2.1 first.
Install z4root and root phone
Install rom manager
Flash clockwordmod recovery from rom manager
Choose a 2.2 rom from the forums
Download and copy to SD card
Install via rom manager
????????
Profit
Hope this helps. Btw I reccomend firefly or serendipity for the rom
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
brendanmurphy said:
Install z4root and root phone
Install rom manager
Flash clockwordmod recovery from rom manager
Choose a 2.2 rom from the forums
Download and copy to SD card
Install via rom manager
????????
Profit
Hope this helps. Btw I reccomend firefly or serendipity for the rom
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only downside to rooting the phone is the voided warranty. I don't entirely know what I'm doing there when it comes to flashing, and if I manage to do something wrong and brick the phone again, I'm completely wiped. I don't have the money to replace the phone at all. I have no job. ._. Only reason I got the phone was because I managed to get some spare money fixing up a friend's computer, and the maternal unit's contract extension was available. I'm not paying for the phone, still my parents. Damn economy in this state is so broken, and I'm screwed over worse since I have no diploma.
However, I was looking into info on the roms, and while I was tempted to try out CM7 for the fact it was 2.3, I actually considered getting Paragon RC6 from what I had read. Just decided not to because I can't replace the phone if I screwed up. In the slim chance I do opt to risk not having a phone at all if I do something wrong, would you say Paragon's worthwhile or would it be better to go with Serendipity? I do like TouchWiz, and Wifi access is a must (200 MB plan isn't going to cover it with how I use data; I'm frequently using Wifi in as many places as is possible), but I'm pretty sure both of those are fine there. Just not really sure which would be better overall, performance-wise.
I can't do either of them right now anyway until I figure out why the drivers aren't installing. So that's my first issue.
Don't worry about bricking I almost guarantee you will brick your phone once. But that is what Odin is for and it's almost impossible to hard brick a phone these days. Just install paragon with the instructions I gave its really fool proof these days to install rom. You will learn by trying if you mess up so be it that's what xda is here for to help.
Drop me a pm anytime if you need help
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
brendanmurphy said:
Don't worry about bricking I almost guarantee you will brick your phone once. But that is what Odin is for and it's almost impossible to hard brick a phone these days. Just install paragon with the instructions I gave its really fool proof these days to install rom. You will learn by trying if you mess up so be it that's what xda is here for to help.
Drop me a pm anytime if you need help
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well. Despite it being almost impossible, I've managed it once already within the first month of having one. Kind of why I'm a bit skittish about actually going through with it. I'm definitely all about modding and customizing things to your liking, but not having the funds to fall back on if I /do/ screw up bigtime again, yeeeeah.
After looking at Firefly and Serendipity thoroughly, though, I'm impressed. It's a tough choice between the three (Paragon, Serendipity, and Firefly). I'm leaning towards Serendipity now though after watching a video just to see the interface. Kinda not a huge fan of the GB launcher -- I liked the side-scrolling app launcher more, honestly -- but that's not a big deal.
So, let's see if I've got the details down right before I try anything. Search z4root in Market, install. Subsequently get Rom Manager, install it. Flash ClockworkMod (via Rom Manager). Pick a 2.2 rom (which will be a tough choice), and download it to my microSD card to put in the phone. Install said rom (via Rom Manager). And then, voila, it's done.
Did I miss anything, or am I actually following instructions right here?
Edit: Nope, can't find z4root in the Market anyways. Means I'd have to Sideload it, and until I get this driver issue solved, that's not gonna work either. That's gonna be the first thing necessary to fix since it also means I can't use Odin if I do anything wrong... Downloading Serendipity now though, so if I can get that fixed, I may go ahead and try this out after I get some sleep. But since I'm nocturnal, time for some rest. Hoping for some tips or pointers when I get back on. Definitely looking forward to good experiences with XDA and my Android phone.
Yea those are the exact steps its really simple. http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=944418 try this it will install drivers for you ans sideload apps. This is a useful tool
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
The.Se7enth said:
Only downside to rooting the phone is the voided warranty.
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Click to collapse
Quick question. Did you purchase the insurance through AT&T for the phone? If so, you will most likely always be able to get it replaced even if it's been rooted. It's just as simple as calling the help line, and saying that you have no idea what happened, and it won't work now. Of course that is worst case scenario
From my experience, the Captivate is a pretty difficult phone to hard brick compared to some others. For a beginner, all of this can be somewhat overwhelming, we've all been there. But once you get the hang of the whole process, you'll be good to go!
Yeah I've done that once already. Just called in and told them that it seems like a software problem and they replaced it no charge.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using XDA Premium App
Beginner help....
AT&T warranty is for 1 year on new phones, 90 days on phones you purchase as refurbished. (30 day "I just don't like THIS phone" replacement/return in both cases.) If Radio Shack will not replace the phone, AT&T should swap. If neither is willing to help, Samsung will honor their 1 year warranty, but it requires shipping back to Samsung.
Your situation sounds like your Windows PC is the problem. A complete reinstall of Windows & apps (not just a quick MBR repair / install over top of existing stuff) may be your best bet if you can't use a different machine.
Kies Mini should upgrade your phone to 2.2 painlessly - without you having to do anything but plug it in and click the on screen button.
Also if you root and need to return it just flash back to stock which will take away root and at$t is none the wiser, most likely
peypey008 said:
Quick question. Did you purchase the insurance through AT&T for the phone? If so, you will most likely always be able to get it replaced even if it's been rooted. It's just as simple as calling the help line, and saying that you have no idea what happened, and it won't work now. Of course that is worst case scenario
From my experience, the Captivate is a pretty difficult phone to hard brick compared to some others. For a beginner, all of this can be somewhat overwhelming, we've all been there. But once you get the hang of the whole process, you'll be good to go!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Don't feel their insurance policies are worth it. You spend more money on the insurance policy in total, even if it's month-to-month, than you would on a brand new contractless phone. Besides, I had only made $120 from fixing up three ancient computers (so ancient they actually had ISA slots and DIMM SD-RAM memory -- one was even a Pentium II), and only had $50 by the time I bought the phone which was a couple months later. My $50 went towards the phone and a pack of screen protectors, while my mom covered the upgrade fee. Couldn't afford the insurance policy even if we wanted to.
But I do greatly appreciate the encouragement. I'll give it a go in a bit, and try out flashing Serendipity. I'll follow the official instructions from their own website though, because I read this on their FAQ:
"Never use ROM Manager. EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER!"
pouelle said:
AT&T warranty is for 1 year on new phones, 90 days on phones you purchase as refurbished. (30 day "I just don't like THIS phone" replacement/return in both cases.) If Radio Shack will not replace the phone, AT&T should swap. If neither is willing to help, Samsung will honor their 1 year warranty, but it requires shipping back to Samsung.
Your situation sounds like your Windows PC is the problem. A complete reinstall of Windows & apps (not just a quick MBR repair / install over top of existing stuff) may be your best bet if you can't use a different machine.
Kies Mini should upgrade your phone to 2.2 painlessly - without you having to do anything but plug it in and click the on screen button.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
RadioShack replaced the phone the first time, but the manager there said after replacing it once, the warranty was thus void. I'm not sure if profanity is allowed here, but you can figure out which word I wanted to reply to him. It's eight letters long, starts with bull.
I've read posts on AT&T forums saying if the phone's bricked or can't be repaired by user methods though, especially if it's rooted, that they won't honor the warranty at all and will consider it user error and that you're out of luck. Even people who tried to upgrade to 2.2 stock had issues with that. But I dunno.
Anyways, my machine works perfectly for everything else. Before the repair, when I tried to upgrade? It was a fresh install. I had just reformatted it because it was performing sluggish before and I decided I wanted a single-boot installation instead of having my old dual-boot of Windows 7 and XP. It's now just XP for the time being, seeing as how the hardware's limited and I want to get the best out of it for gaming (I can run 7 with ease, but it uses more resources than XP, thus games don't run as well).
I realize earlier I may have come off as implying the upgrade to 2.2 process was difficult. I don't mean it was "difficult" by any means necessary. It was simply a plug the phone in, let all the drivers install, unhook and put in download mode, hook up again for more drivers. Restart phone, start up kies, hook up phone, and click "Upgrade phone" button. Accept the terms of service or whatever, and wait. Upgrade starts, phone flips into download mode on it's own, restarts a couple times, and voila, you're on 2.2. I thought it was a piece of cake. My issue is that regardless of how easy it was, it still ended up rather broken because all those applications were missing, on top of the fact the Settings panel was also gone, leaving me unable to perform a factory reset.
I have one last question. If I do somehow manage to get these drivers to work again (without reformatting, which I don't have the time to do), should I have the SIM card out while flashing the ROM? I'm wondering, subconsciously, if somehow that may have had something to do with the upgrade to 2.2 screwing up so bad. I had the SIM card in, with all my applications installed at first. Second time, no apps or anything were installed, but the SIM card was still in.
Edit: Well aware of most forums having a "do not double post" rule, as much as I want to bump this thread with an update on the issue. But, I've restarted my computer, tried a different USB cable, uninstalled and reinstalled the drivers from numerous different sources, and still the same "fatal error" issue on "Samsung Android ADB Composite Interface". I simply cannot get that to install whatsoever, and without it, the phone isn't detected as being hooked up even by SWM, much less anything else. Seriously, what do I do? I'm not reformatting my computer, because I simply see no reason for it, but I have no other computer I can use. How do I get these drivers to install properly like they did before?
The.Se7enth said:
At the time I tried, Kies itself didn't support the Captivate. Only Kies mini. And in order to do that upgrade, I had to install the drivers, then put the phone into download mode to install more drivers for some odd reason, restart the phone (taking out the battery and putting it back in), then hook it up. Kies mini wouldn't detect the phone for several tries at first, finally got it about the 10th time in. Then go to the "Upgrade phone" link, and yeah. I followed the instructions from Samsung's official SGH-i897 Froyo upgrade guide.
I did EXACTLY as the instructions say, down to the wire. Still ended up both times with all those applications missing and the settings panel missing, unable to do a factory reset without flashing back to 2.1 first.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fail, Kies Mini works from Kies mode on the phone. It puts the phone into download mode when you start the upgrade from Kies Mini.
Just saying...
The.Se7enth said:
Nope. Don't feel their insurance policies are worth it. You spend more money on the insurance policy in total, even if it's month-to-month, than you would on a brand new contractless phone. Besides, I had only made $120 from fixing up three ancient computers (so ancient they actually had ISA slots and DIMM SD-RAM memory -- one was even a Pentium II), and only had $50 by the time I bought the phone which was a couple months later. My $50 went towards the phone and a pack of screen protectors, while my mom covered the upgrade fee. Couldn't afford the insurance policy even if we wanted to.
But I do greatly appreciate the encouragement. I'll give it a go in a bit, and try out flashing Serendipity. I'll follow the official instructions from their own website though, because I read this on their FAQ:
"Never use ROM Manager. EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER!"
RadioShack replaced the phone the first time, but the manager there said after replacing it once, the warranty was thus void. I'm not sure if profanity is allowed here, but you can figure out which word I wanted to reply to him. It's eight letters long, starts with bull.
I've read posts on AT&T forums saying if the phone's bricked or can't be repaired by user methods though, especially if it's rooted, that they won't honor the warranty at all and will consider it user error and that you're out of luck. Even people who tried to upgrade to 2.2 stock had issues with that. But I dunno.
Anyways, my machine works perfectly for everything else. Before the repair, when I tried to upgrade? It was a fresh install. I had just reformatted it because it was performing sluggish before and I decided I wanted a single-boot installation instead of having my old dual-boot of Windows 7 and XP. It's now just XP for the time being, seeing as how the hardware's limited and I want to get the best out of it for gaming (I can run 7 with ease, but it uses more resources than XP, thus games don't run as well).
I realize earlier I may have come off as implying the upgrade to 2.2 process was difficult. I don't mean it was "difficult" by any means necessary. It was simply a plug the phone in, let all the drivers install, unhook and put in download mode, hook up again for more drivers. Restart phone, start up kies, hook up phone, and click "Upgrade phone" button. Accept the terms of service or whatever, and wait. Upgrade starts, phone flips into download mode on it's own, restarts a couple times, and voila, you're on 2.2. I thought it was a piece of cake. My issue is that regardless of how easy it was, it still ended up rather broken because all those applications were missing, on top of the fact the Settings panel was also gone, leaving me unable to perform a factory reset.
I have one last question. If I do somehow manage to get these drivers to work again (without reformatting, which I don't have the time to do), should I have the SIM card out while flashing the ROM? I'm wondering, subconsciously, if somehow that may have had something to do with the upgrade to 2.2 screwing up so bad. I had the SIM card in, with all my applications installed at first. Second time, no apps or anything were installed, but the SIM card was still in.
Edit: Well aware of most forums having a "do not double post" rule, as much as I want to bump this thread with an update on the issue. But, I've restarted my computer, tried a different USB cable, uninstalled and reinstalled the drivers from numerous different sources, and still the same "fatal error" issue on "Samsung Android ADB Composite Interface". I simply cannot get that to install whatsoever, and without it, the phone isn't detected as being hooked up even by SWM, much less anything else. Seriously, what do I do? I'm not reformatting my computer, because I simply see no reason for it, but I have no other computer I can use. How do I get these drivers to install properly like they did before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea once you have serendipity installed don't use rom manager but for initial install your fine
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
cappysw10 said:
Fail, Kies Mini works from Kies mode on the phone. It puts the phone into download mode when you start the upgrade from Kies Mini.
Just saying...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can "say" all you want, my good sir, but google the instructions. They tell you clearly to put the phone into download mode TO FINISH INSTALLING DRIVERS. You don't start up Kies mini until after all the drivers are installed, at which point you hook up the phone with USB Debugging, not Kies mode. I appreciate your willingness to help, but be sure to read everything I say before you correct me. I'm not that slow. I read instructions thoroughly and I've read quite a lot of posts on these forums. I work with computers regularly -- just not Android. The issue had nothing to do with that anyway, so that doesn't even matter.
brendanmurphy said:
Yea once you have serendipity installed don't use rom manager but for initial install your fine
Sent from my Captivate running CyanogenMod7 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sure it's possible, and I don't mean to come off disrespectful, but I'm just gonna go with the instructions on their website. Just seems a safer route to install a ROM by the creator's instructions, you know? Only thing I'm not sure about is what they mean by "Flash it in 2e recovery (twice)." on ClockworkMod.
The.Se7enth said:
I have one last question. If I do somehow manage to get these drivers to work again (without reformatting, which I don't have the time to do), should I have the SIM card out while flashing the ROM? I'm wondering, subconsciously, if somehow that may have had something to do with the upgrade to 2.2 screwing up so bad. I had the SIM card in, with all my applications installed at first. Second time, no apps or anything were installed, but the SIM card was still in.
Edit: Well aware of most forums having a "do not double post" rule, as much as I want to bump this thread with an update on the issue. But, I've restarted my computer, tried a different USB cable, uninstalled and reinstalled the drivers from numerous different sources, and still the same "fatal error" issue on "Samsung Android ADB Composite Interface". I simply cannot get that to install whatsoever, and without it, the phone isn't detected as being hooked up even by SWM, much less anything else. Seriously, what do I do? I'm not reformatting my computer, because I simply see no reason for it, but I have no other computer I can use. How do I get these drivers to install properly like they did before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
These two are still my top questions now. Is it a good idea to have the SIM card out during the upgrade process, and not put it back in until after the update is 100% complete?
Also, I'm really frustrated about this whole driver thing. I know the drivers aren't broken because I used them on this very computer before, and the repair shouldn't have damaged anything because absolutely everything else is working flawlessly. But every time I've uninstalled the drivers completely, and hook up the phone, it keeps getting a fatal error on that. Apparently "S3C6410 Android ADB" is the name of the device that can't install drivers.
I'm not new to android whatsoever.. I've just returned from an Iphone 4s cause i was missing the openess of android. Now.. i've pulled out my old Nexus S 4g, Updated it to 4.0.4 and i cant get it to connect to my computer for the life of me! tried 4 different cables, 5 different computers, every driver i could find and nothing. I've come to believe this is a software failure... All i need is root and i will be able to sleep at night. Could someone package up .zip to give root and twrp recovery that i could flash through stock recovery? I dont know else i could do to get root... but this problem is becoming quite annoying.
1. There is no way to package a zip to flash through stock recovery since it would have to be signed.
2.For someone who is "not new to android whatsoever" making 2 threads about the same topic 2 minutes apart isn't exactly acting the part.
Try this guide.
Actually you're wrong, On the Epic 4G someone did in fact manage to do so. And yeah since i'm not new to these forums i understand that stuff like this gets overlooked so i made two posts. Cry me a river.
BTW Thanks harb... but that would involve being able to connect to my PC. Which just is not possible right now.
Thats the Android Karma... it happens but a little advice.
If you can't connect to the computer then it might a hardware issue not software.
If getting root was that easy that you just had to flash a zip on stock then everyone would be doing it. And good luck getting root without unlocking your bootloader first. Not to be rude but the problem could possibly be between the computer and the chair.
robogoflow said:
Thats the Android Karma... it happens but a little advice.
If you can't connect to the computer then it might a hardware issue not software.
If getting root was that easy that you just had to flash a zip on stock then everyone would be doing it. And good luck getting root without unlocking your bootloader first. Not to be rude but the problem could possibly be between the computer and the chair.
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Click to collapse
It's ok, not rude. I understand what you are saying... but did you not read what i just said? somebody had accomplished this on the Epic 4G and i'm just trying to find someone who has done it with the NS4G.. I've had 4 Android devices, rooted them all and been here since the beginning. It's not a hardware problem, it connected fine before when it was on gingerbread... i downloaded the OTA ICS then flashed through stock recovery.. but if you read what i said in the first post this problem only occured AFTER updating. This is why i quit using XDA a long time ago, because people just post a bunch of useless information instead of trying to help... The problem is not me my friend, its the damned ICS update, i've read multiple posts all over the interweb w/ people who have had the same problem, yet no resolutions other than bending up the micro usb male piece on my phone which is not the problem as i said it was working fine before i updated. Have tried multiple samsung drivers, pda net, and Android SDK Drivers, multiple Cords from samsung, to htc, to blackberry and palm pre and even a nokia one now. and 5 different computers... so tell me smart guy, what would you do?
grumpySasquatch said:
It's ok, not rude. I understand what you are saying... but did you not read what i just said? somebody had accomplished this on the Epic 4G and i'm just trying to find someone who has done it with the NS4G.. I've had 4 Android devices, rooted them all and been here since the beginning. It's not a hardware problem, it connected fine before when it was on gingerbread... i downloaded the OTA ICS then flashed through stock recovery.. but if you read what i said in the first post this problem only occured AFTER updating. This is why i quit using XDA a long time ago, because people just post a bunch of useless information instead of trying to help... The problem is not me my friend, its the damned ICS update, i've read multiple posts all over the interweb w/ people who have had the same problem, yet no resolutions other than bending up the micro usb male piece on my phone which is not the problem as i said it was working fine before i updated. Have tried multiple samsung drivers, pda net, and Android SDK Drivers, multiple Cords from samsung, to htc, to blackberry and palm pre and even a nokia one now. and 5 different computers... so tell me smart guy, what would you do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bro... Chill... They're just trying to help you out. There is NO way to to root your NS without a computer (currently. We are not Epic 4G owners here). You said you didn't use your NS since GB, SO during the time in between something could have happened to the hardware. Don't rule that out just yet. Your drivers might also be bad. Is this what migrating to iOS does to people? Makes them snobby and demand fixes to problems they can't figure out on their own? Don't hate on the XDA forums. If we're not helping you "hit the thanks button anyways, you ungrateful bastard" (XDA into video ). Anywho. Chill. Keep trying.
Nexus S (GSM i9020a)
Paranoid (14.a Hybrid - 4.0.4)
Matrix Kernel (CFS - 20.0)
Intellidemmand (800/100)
Live OC (105 - 800/1000)
Deep Idle (On - Noop)
BLX - 96 (Inverted Apps)
I am chill, i am just trying to describe what I've already done so maybe someone could suggest something else. And no what i meant is i downloaded the OTA on my computer than transferred it onto my Nexus through USB mount a couple of days ago so i know its not a hardware issue. Im not demanding fixes, just trying to see if anyone has done been able to figure this out yet as i know im not the only one with this issue. And there is a big problem w/ people on the XDA forums as a whole.. i am a little frustrated and just dont like when someone is telling me is a User issue when i have tried everything conceivable and know what i am doing.. Sorry if this offended you. and IOS is a good device.. its just like.. NWO they want to control everything haha. I'd rather be part of the rebel faction. even though i love my ipad XD
There is currently no way to root 4.0.4 without an unlocked bootloader (and no custom recovery), and the only way to get an unlocked bootloader is to either have root or plug it into the PC and unlock via fastboot. As such, you are stuck with sorting out drivers - despite how annoying they are.
The video i linked to above describes in detail (and through video) exactly how to sort out NS drivers on Windows machines as well as the required fastboot commands to get a custom recovery.
Harbb said:
The video i linked to above describes in detail (and through video) exactly how to sort out NS drivers on Windows machines as well as the required fastboot commands to get a custom recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes that is a good video, and does a job well done in describing on how to install drivers. My main issue is that my Computer(s) are'nt recognized my device at all... It doesn't show up as android device, or nexus s... but Unknown device. If i could figure this out i believe i could handle the rest.
grumpySasquatch said:
Yes that is a good video, and does a job well done in describing on how to install drivers. My main issue is that my Computer(s) are'nt recognized my device at all... It doesn't show up as android device, or nexus s... but Unknown device. If i could figure this out i believe i could handle the rest.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pretty sure that video describes that. You need to open up device manager, double click unknown device (while device is in fastboot), hit update driver and navigate to the provided drivers on the site. Watch it a few times, you'll figure it out.
Have you tried to install PDANet? I've read numerous times about it working wonders for users who have trouble with drivers. It has all of the necessary drivers built in.
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
d_phekt said:
Have you tried to install PDANet? I've read numerous times about it working wonders for users who have trouble with drivers. It has all of the necessary drivers built in.
Sent from my Nexus S using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes i second that,PDANet Drivers usually work across all devices you should try them.
Like ppl said before, try PdaNet drivers it might help.
thanks everyone, , but like i said i tried pretty much every driver you can find online. they will not install as my device comes up as "Unknown", i've literally tried every piece of literature on the web relating to this issue... at this point i'm just going to wait for the JB update and see what happens.
grumpySasquatch said:
It's ok, not rude. I understand what you are saying... but did you not read what i just said? somebody had accomplished this on the Epic 4G and i'm just trying to find someone who has done it with the NS4G.. I've had 4 Android devices, rooted them all and been here since the beginning. It's not a hardware problem, it connected fine before when it was on gingerbread... i downloaded the OTA ICS then flashed through stock recovery.. but if you read what i said in the first post this problem only occured AFTER updating. This is why i quit using XDA a long time ago, because people just post a bunch of useless information instead of trying to help... The problem is not me my friend, its the damned ICS update, i've read multiple posts all over the interweb w/ people who have had the same problem, yet no resolutions other than bending up the micro usb male piece on my phone which is not the problem as i said it was working fine before i updated. Have tried multiple samsung drivers, pda net, and Android SDK Drivers, multiple Cords from samsung, to htc, to blackberry and palm pre and even a nokia one now. and 5 different computers... so tell me smart guy, what would you do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the ICS update makes you unable to boot to fastboot and makes your device unable to be recognized by your computer from there?
That's a new one. As far as I know, "Unknown device" is actually your device being recognized, just the driver doesn't get installed correctly.
Have you tried manually specifying which driver to install and selecting the PDA Net driver? Look at Harbb's last post.
Have you went as far as editing the drivers inf to match your hardware ID? I know I had to do that way back when the PDA net drivers weren't even available.
'til then, user error.
polobunny said:
Have you tried manually specifying which driver to install and selecting the PDA Net driver? Look at Harbb's last post.
Have you went as far as editing the drivers inf to match your hardware ID? I know I had to do that way back when the PDA net drivers weren't even available.
'til then, user error.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I swear you people don't listen, look i did everything in the video exact when i try to manually specify the driver it comes back saying that the folder you specified doesn't contain a compatible driver for your device... I'm not an imbecile and know how to follow instructions on a video. I know most people skip research cause they're too lazy to figure it out themselves... i posted on here as a last resort and feel like people are telling me what i already know then telling me its my fault, ridiculous. if you guys are just going to repeat what the last five people have said instead of trying to offer a new soloution then why even bother posting?
Epic 4G could do this in FROYO... It was patched by google in 2.3+. Do you want an app to secretly root you and install malware?
Sent from my Samsung Epic 4G using Tapatalk 2
grumpySasquatch said:
I swear you people don't listen, look i did everything in the video exact when i try to manually specify the driver it comes back saying that the folder you specified doesn't contain a compatible driver for your device... I'm not an imbecile and know how to follow instructions on a video. I know most people skip research cause they're too lazy to figure it out themselves... i posted on here as a last resort and feel like people are telling me what i already know then telling me its my fault, ridiculous. if you guys are just going to repeat what the last five people have said instead of trying to offer a new soloution then why even bother posting?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well it is going to be basically one of two things.
1. Is user error of some sort. That is what people have been trying to help with.
2. Is hardware issue that no one can help you with of course. Or some software issue causing it to not show up for who knows what reason. Neither of which folks can help with since a computer is not seeing it. So they revert back to what they can. Point 1
When you asked a question like is there a zip that you can flash in stock recovery to give you root or custom recovery that also doesn't help your cause for people assuming user error.
The one other thing you can try is download mode and Odin.
grumpySasquatch said:
I swear you people don't listen, look i did everything in the video exact when i try to manually specify the driver it comes back saying that the folder you specified doesn't contain a compatible driver for your device... I'm not an imbecile and know how to follow instructions on a video. I know most people skip research cause they're too lazy to figure it out themselves... i posted on here as a last resort and feel like people are telling me what i already know then telling me its my fault, ridiculous. if you guys are just going to repeat what the last five people have said instead of trying to offer a new soloution then why even bother posting?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cool. Trash your Nexus S, clearly broken.
Edit: That's nice of you albundy, but Mr grumpySasquatch (fitting name eh?) has tried everything, including modding the drivers inf. His Nexus S is broken beyond repair, also the first one we've ever seen that won't adb but works fine for USB mounting. *chuckle*
Hi there, I just got this tablet with its awesome screen a couple of days ago and as the title says I'm not sure if I should let the OTA run.
I already have a GS2 so I was aware of the eMMC bug and I also have an overly cautious nature so I said no to the updates and turned the auto check for updates feature off.
I got the P6810 version.
Currently it is on a ROM the firmware websites don't recognise:
2.6.36-P6810DTKL4-CL602212
I have no idea what version it will update to as if I ask it to check and agree to the disclaimers the download size is listed as less than a megabyte.
I have read quite a few of the threads here but none of them made things completely clear as to what to do in this situation. One of the posts said not to do a wipe with a Honeycomb based ROM which is what this is.
By the sounds of it we should get Jelly Bean in a month or so, well it is rumored and that would be great. I'm not sure I really need a rooted custom ROM but I definitely need to be off Honeycomb!
Thanks for your time.
I was having problems with my wi-fi connection and had to set it manually, I thought that perhaps the update might address that so I let it update.
It was 0.07Mb and has taken it to:
2.6.36-P6810DTKL5-CL604290
Now it says no updates available but the firmware sites say there are a few newer versions including an ICS based one. I guess I need to do that manually or via Kies, which I don't really trust.
I'll wait for advice from more knowledgeable people.
I would and have trusted Samsung Kies before for updates... not on this device, but on my Notes... and it did just fine...
good luck
jimmbomb said:
I would and have trusted Samsung Kies before for updates... not on this device, but on my Notes... and it did just fine...
good luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply Jimmbomb, I had a bit of a think about it and figured if it died I'd just be without it while it got fixed or replaced. Given I wasn't used to having it I probably wouldn't miss it so I gave Kies another try. This is unlike my phone which I need to work and, after it wiped and failed to restore my data and settings, I haven't updated my phone. I know I really should but once burnt twice shy.
I haven't used Kies for over a year, in that time it has improved significantly and actually did what it claimed to!
My initial reluctance to use it was based off my initial experience with it, it seems like Samsung have listened to feedback and fixed it up which is good news for us.
Now we just need to patiently wait for the JB release, hopefully it will be like the update for the GS2 and include the fancy features, smart stay being the one I expect will be most useful for a tablet.
I was wrong, Kies still has some problems.
I thought I'd plug my SGS2 in to see what would happen, it doesn't detect it although windows has no problems talking to it and letting me copy files via explorer.
I did the 'troubleshoot connection' procedure and all it does is reinstall the USB driver, since doing that neither device will connect to Kies!
Time to uninstall and try again I guess, SO frustrating given the size of company Samsung is.
Yep.
Samsung fraks it up on a number of fronts.
I think they need to learn that putting 5000 versions of devices on the market and then providing crappy support is an approach to business that leaves a bad impression.
Hi, I just wanted to give everyone some information to updating to 5.1.1 as many of you are probably buying these due to the recent sales. If you don't want to root but wanted the 5.1.1 update through AT&T, here is the guide. You could also try rolling the date method but it did not work for me. I actually bought a bunch of these phones for friends and family, and I've updated five of them to 5.1.1 through AT&T OTA update, and this method is very time efficient
Side note: if you have more than one G Flex2 that you are looking to update, you can update them all using just one sim and swapping them between phones.
Before you begin, do a factory reset under settings if you've already pressed software update and tried rolling the date a few times to get the update. Afterward, do not press software update until you are sure that the AT&T person has pushed the update.
*If you had previously rooted your phone, you must unroot before trying the OTA update, as it will prevent it from installing.
Here are my steps (probably takes around 30 minutes):
1. Register for the gophone plan with the AT&T sim card and put the minimum $10 credit into the plan. For the IMEI, put all zeroes in. This will allow you to select the $2 monthly plan, which you ultimately won't be selecting but instead will select the $1 100mb daily package after your account and sim have been activated.
2. Turn the phone on with your newly activated gophone sim. TURN ON WIFI and keep it on WIFI until your update is downloaded, installed, and finished.
3. Directly call the gophone support line: 800.901.9878, and voice navigate your way to technical support (it's an automated system).
4. When the person picks up on customer service, ask them to put you through to advanced technical support, and if they ask what the call is for, tell them that you were disconnected while talking with an advanced technical support line as this will get you where you need to faster.
5. Ask the person on advanced technical support to push an update to your phone, and tell them that you've tried manually updating through the software update on your phone under settings numerous times. If they insist that they cannot push updates and you have to do it yourself on your phone, tell them that your friend has a G Flex2 with a gophone plan, and he/she was able to get the update pushed with a call to advanced technical support. If you think that the support person is being stubborn and not even attempting to try it, just hang up and try again.
6. Help the support person find the update that you are looking for by telling them the update is called H95011x. DO NOT get the H95011z beforehand, as it will not help you. Ask explicitly for the H95011x update. You can also read some more information from this page, which is the link to the page with the update information (edit: cannot post the link since I'm a newbie... Alternatively, you can find the software info page it if you type H95011x on google and look for the link to the site att.com)
7. Keep asking them to push update from their side, and you will know that they've pushed it when you go to the software update under settings on your phone and it says something different now. Instead of "look for update software" or something similar, it will now say, "continue with software update". When you press it, a notification will appear, saying "communication in progress". Tap on the button a few times to make sure that it keeps saying "communication in progress".
8. When you see "communication in progress", just leave the phone alone for the next hour or two, as the phone is downloading the update file without showing you any sort of progress bar. Keep the phone connected to wifi.
9. Come back and a notification will prompt you to install update and the phone will restart.
Hope this helps! I know that getting the AT&T OTA update can be a pain and I wished that I had some guide to follow when I was first trying to get the update.
I am on 5.0.1 v10d right now and rooted. Do I have to unroot in order for the update to work?
illego said:
I am on 5.0.1 v10d right now and rooted. Do I have to unroot in order for the update to work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure, but reading things about going from AT&T 5.1.1 to rooting 5.1.1 PR bricking some phones makes me think that it might be a good idea to unroot.
This is the best guide/advice on how to get 5.1.1 update. Took me 20 min to get the H95011x update and another 15 min on same date to get H95011z.
I wasted about 2 hours trying to get the update OTA by changing dates using my coworker's sim card on Att postpaid plan.
When I read this guide I knew right away the $10 top up will not be waisted. I went ahead and followed it exactly and am so glad I did. The phone is so much better now.
khlavkalash thank you for taking the time, register and putting together this guide! I will also try to contribute by answering further questions in this thread.
Here is the link for the AT&T website detailing the H95011z update. Now if I could just find a rep that is capable of pushing the update to my phone. Grr.
Wish this worked...
I followed this process twice (on two separate days) and they insisted that updates are released only in "batches" and that they have zero control over pushing updates. This phone is awesome, but with it being tethered to ATT for updates makes it so hard to love.
mtweisenbarger777 said:
I followed this process twice (on two separate days) and they insisted that updates are released only in "batches" and that they have zero control over pushing updates. This phone is awesome, but with it being tethered to ATT for updates makes it so hard to love.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had the same issue as you. I was lucky enough to have my sim associated with an iphone plan from way back in the day. As soon as the tech associated my sim to an android data plan it kicked off the 5.0.1 to 5.1.1 H95011x update. Now trying to get them to push the H95011z update has been an adventure in futility.
I will update you if I find another way.
thepktrckt said:
I've had the same issue as you. I was lucky enough to have my sim associated with an iphone plan from way back in the day. As soon as the tech associated my sim to an android data plan it kicked off the 5.0.1 to 5.1.1 H95011x update. Now trying to get them to push the H95011z update has been an adventure in futility.
I will update you if I find another way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, I opened a new gophone plan and added 10 bucks of data just so I could do this. Been sitting on my shelf for the better part of two days doing nothing. I hope you get the H95011z update soon. Heck, I'd be thrilled to just get the x update.
Thanks for the info.
mtweisenbarger777 said:
I followed this process twice (on two separate days) and they insisted that updates are released only in "batches" and that they have zero control over pushing updates. This phone is awesome, but with it being tethered to ATT for updates makes it so hard to love.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Make sure you talk to advanced technical support and use the first rep that picks up the phone just to get transferred further.
If advaced tech says it comes in batches - tell him "I understand this is normal process, however according to my extensive research there is an issue with this particular phone getting update automatically. My friend had the update pushed by advanced technical support last week. Please ask arround how to do it."
Be polite and they will do it. I called last Saturday. Both reps knew how to do it, both were very courteous and even insisted to stay on the phone until the whole process is completed althogh it was not needed.
Cuant said:
Make sure you talk to advanced technical support and use the first rep that picks up the phone just to get transferred further.
If advaced tech says it comes in batches - tell him "I understand this is normal process, however according to my extensive research there is an issue with this particular phone getting update automatically. My friend had the update pushed by advanced technical support last week. Please ask arround how to do it."
Be polite and they will do it. I called last Saturday. Both reps knew how to do it, both were very courteous and even insisted to stay on the phone until the whole process is completed althogh it was not needed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm perhaps I will give that a try. Honestly, I am okay with waiting for the update but the real issue is how long will I have to wait? A few days is fine but weeks....that isn't worth it. When a get a few more free moments I will try again. Hopefully this time I can get someone to push it out to me. I did get to advanced tech support and the guys were super courteous; they just insisted on me waiting.
Thanks for the help!
I finally got a tech to push the update after convincing him to do a google search for H95011z. Update started and then failed, when it booted the notification was that it failed because root detection was triggered. This is after I used the tool to bring my phone back to stock and downloading a root checker app that showed I do not have it. Sigh, back to square one.
khlavkalash said:
Hi, I just wanted to give everyone some information to updating to 5.1.1 as many of you are probably buying these due to the recent sales. If you don't want to root but wanted the 5.1.1 update through AT&T, here is the guide. You could also try rolling the date method but it did not work for me. I actually bought a bunch of these phones for friends and family, and I've updated five of them to 5.1.1 through AT&T OTA update, and this method is very time efficient
Side note: if you have more than one G Flex2 that you are looking to update, you can update them all using just one sim and swapping them between phones.
Before you begin, do a factory reset under settings if you've already pressed software update and tried rolling the date a few times to get the update. Afterward, do not press software update until you are sure that the AT&T person has pushed the update.
Here are my steps (probably takes around 30 minutes):
1. Register for the gophone plan with the AT&T sim card and put the minimum $10 credit into the plan. For the IMEI, put all zeroes in. This will allow you to select the $2 monthly plan, which you ultimately won't be selecting but instead will select the $1 100mb daily package after your account and sim have been activated.
2. Turn the phone on with your newly activated gophone sim. TURN ON WIFI and keep it on WIFI until your update is downloaded, installed, and finished.
3. Directly call the gophone support line: 800.901.9878, and voice navigate your way to technical support (it's an automated system).
4. When the person picks up on customer service, ask them to put you through to advanced technical support, and if they ask what the call is for, tell them that you were disconnected while talking with an advanced technical support line as this will get you where you need to faster.
5. Ask the person on advanced technical support to push an update to your phone, and tell them that you've tried manually updating through the software update on your phone under settings numerous times. If they insist that they cannot push updates and you have to do it yourself on your phone, tell them that your friend has a G Flex2 with a gophone plan, and he/she was able to get the update pushed with a call to advanced technical support. If you think that the support person is being stubborn and not even attempting to try it, just hang up and try again.
6. Help the support person find the update that you are looking for by telling them the update is called H95011x. DO NOT get the H95011z beforehand, as it will not help you. Ask explicitly for the H95011x update. You can also read some more information from this page, which is the link to the page with the update information (edit: cannot post the link since I'm a newbie... Alternatively, you can find the software info page it if you type H95011x on google and look for the link to the site att.com)
7. Keep asking them to push update from their side, and you will know that they've pushed it when you go to the software update under settings on your phone and it says something different now. Instead of "look for update software" or something similar, it will now say, "continue with software update". When you press it, a notification will appear, saying "communication in progress". Tap on the button a few times to make sure that it keeps saying "communication in progress".
8. When you see "communication in progress", just leave the phone alone for the next hour or two, as the phone is downloading the update file without showing you any sort of progress bar. Keep the phone connected to wifi.
9. Come back and a notification will prompt you to install update and the phone will restart.
Hope this helps! I know that getting the AT&T OTA update can be a pain and I wished that I had some guide to follow when I was first trying to get the update.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please add a note to unroot/not be rooted before starting this process. If the phone is rooted it will not update from the OTA download
Also note that the system restore might not strip all artifacts from rooting.
mtweisenbarger777 said:
Hmm perhaps I will give that a try. Honestly, I am okay with waiting for the update but the real issue is how long will I have to wait? A few days is fine but weeks....that isn't worth it. When a get a few more free moments I will try again. Hopefully this time I can get someone to push it out to me. I did get to advanced tech support and the guys were super courteous; they just insisted on me waiting.
Thanks for the help!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FYI I posted this in another thread. It doesn't help you get to 5.1.1 but it might help you go from x variant to z.
Finally got a tech to do the push but the push failed because it detected ROOT even though I had done the system restore along with verified with root checker saying no root installed.
At that point I gave up because my only option was a factory flash. On a whim I decided to run the backup/restore tool with the 11z .img file knowing I had nothing to lose. From what I can tell so far, it worked fine and I'm now running 11z. I ran the stagefright detector and now my device only shows one vulnerability instead of several.
I will now start tearing it apart with root and etc, if it craps out I'll let everyone know.
thepktrckt said:
FYI I posted this in another thread. It doesn't help you get to 5.1.1 but it might help you go from x variant to z.
Finally got a tech to do the push but the push failed because it detected ROOT even though I had done the system restore along with verified with root checker saying no root installed.
At that point I gave up because my only option was a factory flash. On a whim I decided to run the backup/restore tool with the 11z .img file knowing I had nothing to lose. From what I can tell so far, it worked fine and I'm now running 11z. I ran the stagefright detector and now my device only shows one vulnerability instead of several.
I will now start tearing it apart with root and etc, if it craps out I'll let everyone know.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I finally decided that waiting for ATT to push out an update that likely wasn't going to come anytime soon wasn't worth it and flashed the H950PR rom. It was super simple, very quick and went through without a hitch. It runs WAY faster than the 5.0.1 rom from ATT and no bloatware....gotta love that. The only thing that doesn't work is the LG Smart World app cause it detects me being in another country (even though I'm in the US) but there is a web interface that works just the same so no big deal. I have fully working LTE and my battery life is superb.
Thanks for all your help and your in depth guide. I (and other I'm sure) very much appreciate your efforts.
Congrats! I am jealous, I had updated my phone to 5.1.1 before the PR option was discovered.
thepktrckt said:
Congrats! I am jealous, I had updated my phone to 5.1.1 before the PR option was discovered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah yeah that is a bummer. I've read that people trying to go from the ATT to the PR version have bricked their phone. Oh well, here's hoping for Android 6 soon!!
thepktrckt said:
Congrats! I am jealous, I had updated my phone to 5.1.1 before the PR option was discovered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So what exactly is better in PR version versus ATT OTA with all ATT bloatware disabled?
Cuant said:
So what exactly is better in PR version versus ATT OTA with all ATT bloatware disabled?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well since I never had the ATT one, I cannot say exactly. But judging from the 5.0.1 that the phone came with, it doesn't get nearly as hot, the battery life is quite a bit better (used to get about 3-4 hours of SOT, now its 5-6), standby battery is CRAZY good, its runs generally faster, plus the update came straight from LG so when they release another update it will come straight from them making it easy to update. The same update method should work. The only thing I truly miss is the Glance from the lock screen. It still works, but it used to have a lit background image; now it doesn't have that. Its just the normal material color background. Nothing huge, just a very very minor cosmetic thing.
mtweisenbarger777 said:
Well since I never had the ATT one, I cannot say exactly. But judging from the 5.0.1 that the phone came with, it doesn't get nearly as hot, the battery life is quite a bit better (used to get about 3-4 hours of SOT, now its 5-6), standby battery is CRAZY good, its runs generally faster, plus the update came straight from LG so when they release another update it will come straight from them making it easy to update. The same update method should work. The only thing I truly miss is the Glance from the lock screen. It still works, but it used to have a lit background image; now it doesn't have that. Its just the normal material color background. Nothing huge, just a very very minor cosmetic thing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ATT OTA 5.1.1 does the same.
On the other note, I do not understand how are you planning to get update directly from LG. My understanding is that you will have to wait for that small PR cell company to release another update and somebody to come up with a way to apply it. I have more faith in ATT, then into a small PR cell company in regard to supporting this phone with future updates
I need help from someone a lot smarter than me. First time poster, but no stranger to rooting. (If I break some protocol, please correct me, I want to be a good citizen.)
Background (can be skipped)
I bought a Note 20 Ultra 5G (model #SM-N9860F) from a guy for a steal of a deal. Now I know why. Before buying we started it up and made a phone call, so I figured most everything else would be fine. Took it home and started messing with it, only to find it laggy and exhibiting other odd behaviors. So I went to check for updates before loading it up with my stuff.
But there was no Update button. I tapped "Software Info" and the next thing I saw made me read it three times. It showed, "Android version: 5.1."
Issues
So...
The phone functions but with lag and issues. SIM is recognized, then unrecognized. SIM cannot be used for data (though wifi is fine).
Not kidding, Kingo Root says it was able to root this Snapdragon phone. Root Checker Basic confirms it as rooted.
Using all the various key combinations posted all over the Internet, I cannot get into Download mode. I've tried for days.
Rebooting into Recovery shows Chinese options. (After many days of messing with it I finally found a way for it to show the English list...happy to share how I got there if anyone cares.)
The phone does connect to a Windows PC successfully via USB and can share files to internal and external memory.
Interestingly, the 500GB of internal memory only shows a fraction of it as available. Wondering if Android 5.1 just can't recognize that much space.
Bottom line
I am unable to get into Download mode. When I do get to where I think Download mode should be, the green Android guy is lying down with the words "No command" underneath. Therefore I can't use Odin, or a paid service, or Samsung Smart Switch...even tried the old Kies, since it has Android 5.1 on it. ALL of them require me to get into Download mode, and it just won't go.
Plan B?: I've heard repeatedly that rooting a Note 20 Ultra is (nearly?) impossible. Since multiple apps on my device insist I successfully rooted it, I was hoping I could use the TWRP app (it's installed) to flash something that could help. But I don't know what that would be, or if it would help at all. TWRP doesn't recognize the .zip, .tar, or any other files I've found and copied to the device. Maybe it's looking for a .img? I'm just not sure, and I don't even know what to look for.
Additional info
I've attached a few screen shots and photos.
I'd be ever so grateful for anyone's guidance. Again,
How can I get into Download mode? Seems that would get me back on the paths I know better.
And/or what can I flash using TWRP on what appears to be a rooted device? Would that even help?
Thank you!
kbtraveler said:
I need help from someone a lot smarter than me. First time poster, but no stranger to rooting. (If I break some protocol, please correct me, I want to be a good citizen.)
Background (can be skipped)
I bought a Note 20 Ultra 5G (model #SM-N9860F) from a guy for a steal of a deal. Now I know why. Before buying we started it up and made a phone call, so I figured most everything else would be fine. Took it home and started messing with it, only to find it laggy and exhibiting other odd behaviors. So I went to check for updates before loading it up with my stuff.
But there was no Update button. I tapped "Software Info" and the next thing I saw made me read it three times. It showed, "Android version: 5.1."
Issues
So...
The phone functions but with lag and issues. SIM is recognized, then unrecognized. SIM cannot be used for data (though wifi is fine).
Not kidding, Kingo Root says it was able to root this Snapdragon phone. Root Checker Basic confirms it as rooted.
Using all the various key combinations posted all over the Internet, I cannot get into Download mode. I've tried for days.
Rebooting into Recovery shows Chinese options. (After many days of messing with it I finally found a way for it to show the English list...happy to share how I got there if anyone cares.)
The phone does connect to a Windows PC successfully via USB and can share files to internal and external memory.
Interestingly, the 500GB of internal memory only shows a fraction of it as available. Wondering if Android 5.1 just can't recognize that much space.
Bottom line
I am unable to get into Download mode. When I do get to where I think Download mode should be, the green Android guy is lying down with the words "No command" underneath. Therefore I can't use Odin, or a paid service, or Samsung Smart Switch...even tried the old Kies, since it has Android 5.1 on it. ALL of them require me to get into Download mode, and it just won't go.
Plan B?: I've heard repeatedly that rooting a Note 20 Ultra is (nearly?) impossible. Since multiple apps on my device insist I successfully rooted it, I was hoping I could use the TWRP app (it's installed) to flash something that could help. But I don't know what that would be, or if it would help at all. TWRP doesn't recognize the .zip, .tar, or any other files I've found and copied to the device. Maybe it's looking for a .img? I'm just not sure, and I don't even know what to look for.
Additional info
I've attached a few screen shots and photos.
I'd be ever so grateful for anyone's guidance. Again,
How can I get into Download mode? Seems that would get me back on the paths I know better.
And/or what can I flash using TWRP on what appears to be a rooted device? Would that even help?
Thank you!
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Sounds like you got what you paid for, it's probably a fake Note20 Ultra.
From what I can tell, the model & build numbers conflict, they're from different models of the Note 20 Ultra, that's why I think it's a fake.
Even the model number doesn't look right, it has a hybrid Chinese/European model number........
KOLIOSIS said:
Sounds like you got what you paid for, it's probably a fake Note20 Ultra.
From what I can tell, the model & build numbers conflict, they're from different models of the Note 20 Ultra, that's why I think it's a fake.
Even the model number doesn't look right, it has a hybrid Chinese/European model number........
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Hi Koliosis,
Yeah, thanks, that has crossed my mind, and that's why I posted those images. If it's fake it's a really good one, but I am aware I could have to chalk that up to experience.
Still, why in the world would a fake have Android 5.1 on it? And it works(-ish)! Isn't that still bizarre? Anything that can be done to force it into Download mode or to flash something with TWRP to at least get an OS from the modern era?
Thanks again...
kbtraveler said:
Hi Koliosis,
Yeah, thanks, that has crossed my mind, and that's why I posted those images. If it's fake it's a really good one, but I am aware I could have to chalk that up to experience.
Still, why in the world would a fake have Android 5.1 on it? And it works(-ish)! Isn't that still bizarre? Anything that can be done to force it into Download mode or to flash something with TWRP to at least get an OS from the modern era?
Thanks again...
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There should be several threads/tutorials here that show how to flash firmware using Odin (& of course,includes how to get into download mode).
Before you try that out,have you tried to use Samsung's Smart Switch program on your PC?
Given the information you've posted,it's difficult to determine which model you have,which makes matters worse since we don't want to make a bad situation worse.
I'd start with the Samsung Smart Switch, hopefully it'll be able to determine the make of your phone & flashing stock firmware should be a breeze. (If it's indeed a genuine Samsung Device).
KOLIOSIS said:
There should be several threads/tutorials here that show how to flash firmware using Odin (& of course,includes how to get into download mode).
Before you try that out,have you tried to use Samsung's Smart Switch program on your PC?
Given the information you've posted,it's difficult to determine which model you have,which makes matters since we don't want to make a bad situation worse.
I'd start with the Samsung Smart Switch, hopefully it'll be able to determine the make of your phone & flashing stock firmware should be a breeze. (If it's indeed a genuine Samsung Device).
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Yes sir, and that's my problem. I've rooted and changed ROMs on a dozen devices or more in the past (thanks to XDA!!), always using Odin. But this phone simply will not go into Download mode at all. Using every key combination I can find I either wind up with the Chinese recovery selections I mentioned or I get that "No command" screen with the Android lying on its back.
So far I've tried these PC apps:
Odin (several versions)
Smart Switch
Kies
FixPPO (https://android.imyfone.com/android-issues/android-no-command-error/)
DroidKit (https://www.imobie.com/android-system-recovery/fix-android-no-command-error.htm)
Some, like Odin and the paid options, require Download mode - which isn't working for me - so those apps can even tell I've plugged a phone into the USB port.
Just to put it out there, when the phone is booted into the OS and attach it to the PC, Windows recognizes it's connected but Smart Switch does not. That supports your point that it may not be a Samsung device, but I wondered if it could also have something to do with Smart Switch coming after 5.1 was old.
I just wondered if somebody who didn't know what they were doing somehow downgraded this phone to Android 5.1 before I accept it as a full loss. Still hoping...
kbtraveler said:
Yes sir, and that's my problem. I've rooted and changed ROMs on a dozen devices or more in the past (thanks to XDA!!), always using Odin. But this phone simply will not go into Download mode at all. Using every key combination I can find I either wind up with the Chinese recovery selections I mentioned or I get that "No command" screen with the Android lying on its back.
So far I've tried these PC apps:
Odin (several versions)
Smart Switch
Kies
FixPPO (https://android.imyfone.com/android-issues/android-no-command-error/)
DroidKit (https://www.imobie.com/android-system-recovery/fix-android-no-command-error.htm)
Some, like Odin and the paid options, require Download mode - which isn't working for me - so those apps can even tell I've plugged a phone into the USB port.
Just to put it out there, when the phone is booted into the OS and attach it to the PC, Windows recognizes it's connected but Smart Switch does not. That supports your point that it may not be a Samsung device, but I wondered if it could also have something to do with Smart Switch coming after 5.1 was old.
I just wondered if somebody who didn't know what they were doing somehow downgraded this phone to Android 5.1 before I accept it as a full loss. Still hoping...
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Makes since you tried Kies (given the stated Android version).
Can you download/sideload any apps that may help identify the phone (& check for Knox 0x0) such as this one:
Phone INFO+ (SAM) - Apps on Google Play
All-in-one INFO and TOOLS for Samsung devices.
play.google.com
AIDA64 - Apps on Google Play
Hardware and software information utility for Android devices
play.google.com
I wish I had more to offer,it's been years since I've dealt w/a rooted Samsung (Note 5).
Hopefully,others will chime in & offer a solution.
FWIW,Definitely following this thread, I'm interested in how things work out, hopefully for the better.
Aah i made an account just to respond to you
i had an iPhone 7 Jet Black replica with android 5.1 once upon a time, same symptoms- 8GB actual storage but will show 128GB when connected to PC
So here are my two cents: These devices won't be recognized by samsung tools as they are not having motherboards made by samsung. I would recommend that you check actual specs from AIDA64 and you will find out which company has made the motherboard or device, mine had strange MediaTek processor though. And hopefully you will find some chinese websites where people are talking about how to flash firmwares in these phones but i recommend not to do that, i had to lose my device as it got bricked.
Well, that's exactly why I come here. I'd never come across that AIDA64 app, and I've attached screen shots. I've never heard of a "Kirin," but sure enough, it's Huawei. Dang it!
@priteshsolanki, hate to hear about your experience. Thanks for the heads up.
So...does Huawei have a Smart Switch equivalent, lol? And by the way, even if I got this working, would Huawei have enough hardware in this bugger to be able to listen in and send data back to Mother China?? I don't know how that kind of thing works...
kbtraveler said:
Well, that's exactly why I come here. I'd never come across that AIDA64 app, and I've attached screen shots. I've never heard of a "Kirin," but sure enough, it's Huawei. Dang it!
@priteshsolanki, hate to hear about your experience. Thanks for the heads up.
So...does Huawei have a Smart Switch equivalent, lol? And by the way, even if I got this working, would Huawei have enough hardware in this bugger to be able to listen in and send data back to Mother China?? I don't know how that kind of thing works...
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This is strange, i think The AIDA64 app is being fooled here too! To find which company has made it, Its gonna be same experience as finding father of an orphan child which just had permanent memory loss
Its not Kirin, its not huawei.. why?-
So its showing ARMv7 32bit processor, which is definitely not Kirin 1020. because kirin 1020 is a high end processor itself too and uses 5nm technology and Cortex A78 architecture! (While yours is showing stone age 28nm with Cortex A7)
Then there is Platform MT6799. When i look up for that, its again showing totally different company- MediaTek chipset "Helio X30 (MT6799)" which is a deca core processor but what we got here in your details is a Quad core processor.
What we know about your processor:
- its Cortex A7 @1301 MHz and has 28nm manufacturing process
(can't be 5G at any cost)
- From above details it seems like an ancient processor which came out somewhere around 2012, probably thats why its running 5.1.
- The performance is equivalent to high end Android Jellybean device, but definitely not suitable for using in 2022
- The storage and RAM amount shown there are just to fulfill fantasies, dont expect it to be reliable. Its probably a 1 or 2GB Ram with 4 or 8GB storage.
- The software in the phone is really fantastic, i have never thought that a clone can be so perfect that even Apps like AIDA64 will have a hard time finding the facts!
Now coming to the main questions:
1) Can it be upgraded?
90% no based on research i have done in google, this phone is totally non existent for google. for remaining 10% you can expect the rom maker to contact you in DMs after seeing your thread here and offer you an upgrade lol
2) Should you use any file syncing tools with it?
Quick answer: Syncios app is your best bet to sync data between phone and back, but only luck can help you find actual firmware of the device
Slightly long answer: So according to our findings all these data shown in phone settings fake, and syncing apps back in 2011-12 i think its going to give you hard time finding a working one. Android 5.1 in todays time is not something you should be using as daily driver for sure. I suggest you to just treat it like a toy.
About my iPhone 7 back in the day, i bought that one for some 60USD but it was worth it, had some kind of apple music app which never required login but was able to stream any songs for free. so ive used that one out for music only.
I really wish there was a better way to put it, but you can try one last dry hope at needrom website to see if they have any details about this device.
kbtraveler said:
But there was no Update button. I tapped "Software Info" and the next thing I saw made me read it three times. It showed, "Android version: 5.1."
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Like has been said, sounds like you got a fake, Software info is one of the first things I would have checked before buying, not after you have bought it and then start having issues. Unfortunately you only really have yourself to blame. like is quite often said if the deal "seems to good to be true" there are reasons why.
@samorgs60, you are very right. I've taken many chances like this one on many electronic devices, and to my recollection, this is the first time I got burned. It's kind of like speeding: I don't always obey the speed limit to the letter (number?), so in the past when I got what I believe was an unfair speeding ticket - I was accused of going faster than I was - I dealt with it my accepting it as a balance in the universe for all the times I should have been busted.
@priteshsolanki, what a catch! Wow. That is kinda amazing, and would explain why it has 5.1 on it. I'm actually astonished at the quality of the device in every way, other than the obvious.
So I hate to ask this, but...isn't it true that carriers (I won't mention mine by name here) make offers for value against a new phone if your current phone simply 1) turns on and 2) does not have a cracked screen? That kinda seems to describe what I've got right now. Not interested in misleading on purpose, but what is the likelihood this would qualify as a trade-in? If they took it initially, what's the likelihood of it coming back to haunt me (the carrier contacting me about it not being a Samsung)?
Really appreciate the help, guys!
It sucks that you got a fake. If you paid with PayPal or Credit, I'd file a claim/dispute and try to return for a refund. Carriers usually log the IMEI of trade ins and if it doesn't match the model or is blacklisted in any way, the trade will be denied.