Full phone backup without root - HTC One S

Did anyone try to backup the way suggested in this thread?
It'd be great, if it worked: a full backup (apps, settings, everything) without needing to root. I'm trying this right now, but when the phone prompts me to allow backup I tap on the "allow backup" button but it's if it weren't tapped (nothing happens, not even the tapping animation).
Someone tried this?
Edit: it would also allow access to some files that are unaccessible without root...

nor-ric said:
Did anyone try to backup the way suggested in this thread?
It'd be great, if it worked: a full backup (apps, settings, everything) without needing to root. I'm trying this right now, but when the phone prompts me to allow backup I tap on the "allow backup" button but it's if it weren't tapped (nothing happens, not even the tapping animation).
Someone tried this?
Edit: it would also allow access to some files that are unaccessible without root...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've tried by running the various adb backup options manually on Stock 2.21, but haven't had much luck, although got further than you. It will get part of the way through the backup, but silently errors out after a few packages and shows backup complete (when I know it isn't). Removing a problem app just results in it failing on the next one. On my Nexus 7 it works as expected, so there may be a bug in the stock version. Would be interesting if someone with CM or anything non stock could comment.

will1987 said:
I've tried by running the various adb backup options manually on Stock 2.21, but haven't had much luck, although got further than you. It will get part of the way through the backup, but silently errors out after a few packages and shows backup complete (when I know it isn't). Removing a problem app just results in it failing on the next one. On my Nexus 7 it works as expected, so there may be a bug in the stock version. Would be interesting if someone with CM or anything non stock could comment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree, would be interesting to see if the issue is related to HTC rom.
I've read on the Nexus 7 subforum that a user is stuck at my same point. I wonder what's causing this...

I had no luck either, although it has been awhile since I tried. I thought I read something on the original documention that made it sound like I wouldn't have any luck. Forget what it was now--

I was able to get this to work with my wifes stock unrooted one s (still on android 4.03 and sense 4.0).
in developer options you need to specify a password BEFORE you start the backup and enter that password on the "full backup" start screen.
i also couldnt get it to create a file for the backup in C:\ so i created a folder, and put it in there, but made sure to check permissions and that the folder was not read only.
I havent restored the data yet, but actually getting the backup file and it being an appropriate size (about 680mb), i would say i am optimistic about the results.
I will report back after i root and update the OS.

Related

All this wiping, how do you people keep your data

i'm reading through all the posts for people updating to the new firmware and wiping away all their data without a care. how can you afford to do that so easily?
I have lots of data like SMS messages I need to keep around, applications that cant be downloaded anymore (such as hello aim beta, wifi tether), settings, etc.. that I just can't wipe my phone. how are you people keeping this data around?
I personally use apps to Sd card and to backup sms and such I use MyBackup Pro available on market for about $5. It works great. Go try it. You can even back up applications with it.
John5788 said:
i'm reading through all the posts for people updating to the new firmware and wiping away all their data without a care. how can you afford to do that so easily?
I have lots of data like SMS messages I need to keep around, applications that cant be downloaded anymore (such as hello aim beta, wifi tether), settings, etc.. that I just can't wipe my phone. how are you people keeping this data around?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I usually will run a nandroid backup first then i can just flash it back without any trouble after the wipe.
I also have GSCRIPT on the phone and have a script that backs up all my apps to the SD and then I have a SCRIPT that will reinstall all my APPS when it is all said and done if I need it for those times that I am unable to backup first.
John5788 said:
i'm reading through all the posts for people updating to the new firmware and wiping away all their data without a care. how can you afford to do that so easily?
I have lots of data like SMS messages I need to keep around, applications that cant be downloaded anymore (such as hello aim beta, wifi tether), settings, etc.. that I just can't wipe my phone. how are you people keeping this data around?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I always make a nandroid backup. As a matter of fact, I make a nandroid backup weekly or before I do anything drastic to my phone like delete all SMS or try something new. Nandroid backup process takes but 5 minutes. Most of the apps can be downloaded over again and most of SMS are of no importance. All my pics and audio and wallpapers are on SD, so that automatically gets moved.
If I ever need to reference to something, I just flash the nandroid backup, look up what I need and then flash back to the other nandroid backup etc. So far that is my game plan, but i've yet to do this as I've never really had the need to go back.
It is tedious process especially for the apps but I have kept a list and it isn't too bad.
there are other wifi tether programs that are probably better than what you had before.
anything and everything is out there apk wise, if you know where to look.
but, there are backup programs and since I don't use them (other than nandroid), hopefully someone can comment on them.
question, i can do a nandroid backup fine without any problems. i believe i am using jf1.42 recovery image, but lets say my phone bricks, whatever nandroid backed up for me, how do i install it back again? n00b question i know but ive searched around and havnt found that answer yet.
I haven't wiped my phone in over a month.
I use MyBackup Pro. Backs up all your Data, Apps, and settings. And, of course, I make a nandroid backup before I flash anything.
madunix said:
question, i can do a nandroid backup fine without any problems. i believe i am using jf1.42 recovery image, but lets say my phone bricks, whatever nandroid backed up for me, how do i install it back again? n00b question i know but ive searched around and havnt found that answer yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's a quick and easy explanation: http://androidcommunity.com/forums/168953-post6.html
I've tried the Nandroid back up, but for the life of me I can't get ADB working on my computer. Is there a script to run it through recovery mode or through the terminal emulator?
Thanks
Hi Aim beta is still available in the market (Is it different from hello AIM beta?) and wifi tether for root users is still available at google code. If there was a program that I wanted that was no longer available I would just back it up to SD before wiping. For SMS I use SMS backup. That way SMS streams are available all the time in my gmail (not that I consider my SMS messages all that important)
Settings take me a little while to get back but usually if I am wiping to put on a new ROM my workflow will change a bit so redoing settings from scratch is not a big deal.
Given that contacts calendar and mail are synced with gmail, wiping is less a concern for me than it was with WM. Reloading apps takes a bit of time but it is not a major effort since most things are either on the market or on my SD.
...what everyone else said.
Also, I use fastboot on the computer side (Windows XP) to get Nandroid's backups back on my phone. This only works if you have the engineering bootloader, though (the thing with the three skateboarding androids). First, you'll have to copy "boot.img," "data.img," and "system.img" to whatever folder fastboot's in. Open up your command prompt. The command line you use is this:
cd *whatever directory fastboot's in*
fastboot flash system system.img
fastboot flash userdata data.img
fastboot flash boot boot.img
fastboot reboot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use nandroid and mybackup pro.
Heres a question for the ages. If i do a nandroid backup on say...JF's 1.5ADP and then update to Haykuros image, after a wipe, would i have a problem if i was to fastboot flash my data.img file? Would it cause problems? I have yet to try it.
Does mybackup pro back up paid apps?
I dont really care about my txt i mean i got alot of txt but nothing to much to be save..I use appmanger to save my .apk apps to sd. and contacts are sync to google so yeah thats all i do.
If you have apps to sd it's as easy as following any apps to sd tutorial. All your apps that are already on your sd card will pop right back into your phone. In case anyone didn't know this. I tried and found out that it worked. So PM me for more details. I can't do much right now. But I can let you know what commands to type in adb shell or terminal emu.
Using the apps to sd, once I set the links up, everything is back, although my protected apps show up as the .apk name as with a gear icon. I have to uninstall then re-install those. But I am looking around for ways to remedy that. I think I found one post, but haven't wiped since I found it.

[Guide] Backup and Flashing Recommendations, Info, and Tips

I found I was repeating myself a lot when helping out people new to rooting their Evo. I also found that this knowledge I'm putting into this doc doesn't really exist in one place, but is spread throughout the entire Evo Forum. So below is some information to help out people with backing up their device, some backup tips, some general information on flashing, and tips and best practices for flashing. Hope this helps!!
Assumptions:
This guide assumes you are fully rooted at this point. If not follow any one of the guides in the Wiki that has been stickied on the main page of the Evo Dev forum. My personal recommendation is the Unrevoked. Very easy to use, just read up and make sure your phone is compatible.
To test root type "su" into a terminal. You should get a "#" back. You can use a terminal emulator from the market or ADB. To get ADB up and running follow this guide here. If that seems confusing than take a look at this guide I wrote for Notion Ink Adam Tablet users here. That guide is for Windows users, but Mac and *nix users shouldn't be much more difficult.
Backing up
NAND Backup:
Once rooted you can use the app quickboot to boot into recovery to do a NAND backup. If your ROM doesn't have this app installed, download from Marketplace. Open app and choose "Recovery". Once into your recovery use the volume buttons on the side to scroll up and down and power button to select to get to the option to backup. I have clockwork installed so my screen looks different, but you should be able to find the NAND backup option. This will take awhile so be patient.
Once done you can reboot and continue on as normal. This is an essential step (or using Rom Manager below). If you ever screw up something major or you try a new ROM and want to go back, this will allow you to restore easily and get back to a point where things worked fine. It would also be highly recommended to do one of these backups before doing something major that has potential to break things. Use best judgment here.
Rom Manager:
Even easier than the above is to use Rom Manager. Download it from the marketplace, run it, and let it update your recovery image for you. Once this is done go to the bottom of this app and choose "Backup Current ROM" This should do a full NAND backup. I would recommend buying this app for the other features it has, but it is up to you.
Titanium Backup (TB):
Once you have your NAND backup I would also recommend installing Titanium Backup from the Marketplace (I would also pay for the license because you get better performance and the dev deserves some green for this awesome app!). Once installed open it. The first time it will ask you to update Busybox. Let it and wait for this to download. When done it will ask you reboot app from the notification area. Do this and then wait for app to fully load, two messages should appear, the second one indicates it is fully loaded. Then hit menu and go to the batch section. Choose " Backup all user apps + system data".
This will backup everything on your phone for you to your SD card. This will take a while so go get some coffee and check back in. Do not close the app or turn off your phone, the screen can go blank and you can let it sit, but it will need time to run. I think when the screen turns off it puts an icon in notification that should be updating the progress of the batch. Once done, it should tell you in the notification area. For me it takes awhile with my 228 some elements I'm backing up. Your mileage will vary.
SMS/MMS
I recently came across a thread that mentions using Handy Backup for backing up SMS/MMS messages. I have not tried this app or used it so I don't have any directions to give on it. But I have had people ask and I have seen folks ask in other threads. So if TB doesn't give you enough, try this one too.
Backup to Computer:
I'm still looking for a better method for this one. I'm sure someone has something and if you do please let me know so I can update this section.
Currently I backup files and folders to my local NAS at home after major changes. Incremental changes I let TB handle. This is just a simple process of setting the SD card to storage and copy/paste. Works fine and I have only done this once so far after everything was set to my liking.
You might wonder why this important? Well if you are going to play around a lot with different ROMs and constantly read/writing info to your SD card, it is important because SD cards are not perfect. They can be corrupted and can fail from too much writing of info. It usually takes a lot of work to get one to the point of failure, but I managed to do it with my HTC Mogul so I can vouch that it can happen.
Important folders on SD card:
- /sdcard/clockwork/backup
This will get all backups performed by clockwork. If you grab the entire clockwork folder then you will get ROM downloads and such too. I don't really recommend this as it never takes more than 25 minutes for me to download any image. Plus with a secure NAND backup, you can always restore quickly.
- /sdcard/nandroid
This should backup the folder used by AmonRa recovery.
- /sdcard/TitaniumBackup
Folder used by TB for backing up of apps.
Of course throw in any other folders you deem important. What that is depends on you. Making a backup of everything else probably wont take long too. For me I rarely have more than 7gb of data on my card so backing up takes roughly 30-50 minutes.
All of this may seem like a lot of work, but once done you will have a robust system in place. And will allow you the opportunity to safely play!!
Restoring
Restoring is a simple process but can be time consuming. To speed things up you can pay for the full version of TB, which I highly recommend.
TB
Follow the directions below for what I do after flashing. If you have already read that and are ready to restore then do the following...
Open up TB and let if fully load, you will get two small popup messages. The second one means that TB has fully loaded the OS information. Then hit the menu key and choose batch. Scroll down and look for "Restore all apps with data". Run this batch to restore everything. Keep in mind if you backed up everything and are now changing ROMs that you might run into problems. I have yet to run across issues, but this is just an FYI. Also another reason to have a full NAND backup with Rom Manager. If you run into too many problems just restore with it and problem solved.
Restores and backups take awhile with TB, but are worth the wait. Once done with the full restore you can then do incremental backup and restores in the future.
Also don't forget to open up the apps after restoring and make sure the apps are setup how you want. Then double check with TB to make sure things are fully backed up, just click "Backup all new apps & newer versions". Once done with this reboot.
After a TB restore always reboot. After the reboot go into Rom Manager and NAND backup following the steps above in the backup section. This will ensure you have a full system backup with the settings you want.
Rom Manager
This one is pretty simple. Just open Rom Manager and choose "Manage and Restore Backups". Then choose your backup to restore. If you named the files by date and time you might have to do some guess work, but you should have a rough idea. Once you click the one you want just sit back and wait.
Flashing Tips and Problems
Watch Girls Gone Wild for help with this...
Many people have asked "Why flash custom ROM" or "What are the advantages"? Well I think one of the biggest reasons is performance gain from phone and apps. But for Evo users the number 1 reason should be better battery utilization. This can mean you see same amount of battery life, but with increased phone and app performance, or same performance, but longer battery life.
I think some people might be hesitant because it was one hell of a process rooting their device. Well to those people I say, you are over the mountain now. The hard part is done, flashing is relatively easy. I recommend doing it cause stock can cause some people minor issues and your are missing out on a lot of cool and useful customizations. And if you backup your phone as detailed above, you do not need to worry about losing anything.
Stock ROM with Root (back to defaults) or Completely Unroot:
To flash a stock ROM with root, download one from the wiki of ROMs. Then follow advice in below sections for flashing.
To unroot (This is the "I need to take my phone to Sprint" conundrum...) Follow the wiki link. Or go to HTC's website. Then go to the support section for the HTC Evo. Download the file from them and run it. You will be good to go. And if you followed the backup section above you do not have to worry about anything. Just re-root when you get your new phone or old phone back. And restore.
Also, I recommend taking out your SD card with all the root files on it. No need to bring this up or have to explain things any Sprint tech could easily see. Also if you used Unrevoked Forever you should follow this unroot guide here.
I Just Flashed with no Backups:
Below is what I did before I had Titanium Backup in place and after flashing a custom ROM...
Once booted right after flashing I make sure things look fine, fully sync to Google, then reboot. When I come back from that I turn on WiFi and go to Marketplace and Download section. Any apps I previously downloaded will be in that section waiting for me to download. Download them all at once, DO NOT leave that section before downloading everything, or you will lose that list and it will only show apps currently downloaded and installed.
Once done, open apps and customize to liking. Then download Rom Manager if you don't already have it and follow the above section. Once done with that follow the above section on Titanium Backup. Then enjoy your custom ROM.
Flashing in general:
ALWAYS make sure your battery is at least 50% full. The last thing you want is your phone to die on you in the middle of flashing.
Use Rom Manger and pay for the full version. It is a lot easier and can remove a lot of headaches and problems. If you really want to do it yourself you shouldn't have any problems, this is typically what I do and I haven't run any issues that couldn't be solved yet.
Follow the above backup guides before flashing another custom ROM. Save yourself time and trouble. Also I have read about people using NAND backups to sort of switch between different ROMs. In the short term that shouldn't be a problem, but long term that can make your SD card unstable. Make sure you follow the above section for backing up your SD card to computer.
If changing from one ROM to another it is best practice and almost always recommended to wipe data and dalvik cache. This also will alleviate many issues people run into. And if you follow my backup recommendations then it shouldn't be an issue to do either of these.
If not using Rom Manager, then put the zip of the ROM you want to flash on your SD card, and DO NOT unzip the zip file. Leave it on the root of your SD card as a zip file. Boot into recovery if you are not there already. Find the option to flash from SD card. Then choose the zip file or ROM you want to flash. Wait for everything to flash, then reboot using the option from the recovery menu. Wait for phone to boot. This can take a long time after flashing any new ROM so be patient.
Some ROM devs have other items you can add to their ROM. Follow their directions for flashing those items. Some devs want you to boot first than go back and flash, others allow for you to just start flashing right away with no waiting. Pay attention to the directions on your ROM thread. If you screw something up, try flashing the package again. If things look worse or it didn't work, re-flash your ROM or restore your backup and try again.
Otherwise, flash the ROM following directions above, flash the other packages and themes and items you want, and reboot. All should be well.
Once booted up follow guides above for backing up or restoring. Otherwise if you have problems look below before asking questions. If you can't find it here try searching before asking questions. If you still can't find it feel free to ask for help, but keep the question in the thread for your ROM you are flashing, or if you think it is a rooting issue, in the thread of the root process you followed.
Bootloop Issue:
This can be caused by a few things. For one, make sure you wipe data and dalvik cache before flashing a custom ROM. Even if the dev says it is not necessary do this before flashing a new ROM. It can help with these issues. The only exception here is if you are updating to a new version of the same ROM and the dev says there is no reason to wipe in between...
Also you can experience this if you are not fully rooted. Look toward the top of this guide for rooting advice.
Sometimes the ROM can take a while to boot after flashing a new ROM. Be sure you really do have a stuck boot or bootloop before doing a battery pull and troubleshooting. Give it some time to see if it fixes itself. If you are waiting over 30 minutes for something, you probably do have a legit issue.
Exclamation Point with Android Guy Screen
I got this when attempting to upgrade once. To get out of it, battery pull and put battery back in. Hold down "Volume Down Button" and then press power. KEEP HOLDING DOWN volume down button till white screen (Hboot) appears. Release volume down button. Wait for it scan. If it finds your PC file choose no and also no on reboot. NEXT CHANCE YOU GET remove, rename, or move the PC file from the root of your SD card. Choose "Recovery" from menu using volume buttons and power button to select. Once in recovery, choose flash from SD card and choose your ROM.
If you cannot find an image or do not have one, just go back and toggle USB. Then copy paste ROM to SD card. Keep in mind that you might need to wipe data and dalvik cache before flashing as mentioned above.
Another user commented this screen appeared when attempting to go into recovery from Quickboot app. This might mean the recovery image didn't install correctly, or could mean you do not have a recovery image flashed or installed. If this is the case, follow one of the guides in this wiki link to flash a recovery.
If you need to get out of this screen, just do a battery pull. Your ROM should boot up fine.
Battery Issues After Flashing:
Some have claimed issues with battery after flashing. To try recalibrating click here for Cyanogen's guide.
That's all for now!
I'm sure there is plenty more to add to this down the road, but for now this is all the dumping my brain can handle. Leave comments and suggestions and let's make this a strong guide with the right information to help those in need.
Very nice, hopefully you just saved someone a lot of heartache
Just added a section for un-rooting. Can someone please help me verify this is correct.
Thanks!
Awesome guide!
Thanks for the info in the Simple Root thread.
One question that was unanswered (and per your response I ask it here):
Are SMS/MMS info backed up using Nandriod or Titanuim??
I'm a little confused by which can do this.
Thanks again for the help.
ucf.elk said:
Awesome guide!
Thanks for the info in the Simple Root thread.
One question that was unanswered (and per your response I ask it here):
Are SMS/MMS info backed up using Nandriod or Titanuim??
I'm a little confused by which can do this.
Thanks again for the help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very good question on SMS/MMS. I think I have noticed that when using Handcent SMS app for sending and receiving SMS/MMS messages they are somehow backedup. I think Handcent has a folder on the SD card.
Otherwise if you are using stock messaging app, I am not sure it TB backs that up or not. If you want to verify this for me and let me know your results I would be happy to update my guide.
webs05 said:
Very good question on SMS/MMS. I think I have noticed that when using Handcent SMS app for sending and receiving SMS/MMS messages they are somehow backedup. I think Handcent has a folder on the SD card.
Otherwise if you are using stock messaging app, I am not sure it TB backs that up or not. If you want to verify this for me and let me know your results I would be happy to update my guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to say thanks for the breakdown, and with my experience Tb has backed up my sms when backing up "all system data and apps"
Thanks again OP
epmacman said:
Just wanted to say thanks for the breakdown, and with my experience Tb has backed up my sms when backing up "all system data and apps"
Thanks again OP
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great info! Thanks epmacman and thanks webs05 for the great guide!
epmacman said:
Just wanted to say thanks for the breakdown, and with my experience Tb has backed up my sms when backing up "all system data and apps"
Thanks again OP
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Were you using stock messaging app? Or a third party one from Marketplace?
Thanks for the information. About to start this whole process soon so this really helped Just a quick question though, do classes of the sd card matter? Have a class 2 card atm but about to buy a 16gig class 6 and figured I should do everything then.
Reanimatedshad0w said:
Thanks for the information. About to start this whole process soon so this really helped Just a quick question though, do classes of the sd card matter? Have a class 2 card atm but about to buy a 16gig class 6 and figured I should do everything then.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, a higher class makes a big difference in speed. Make sure you wipe the new SD card from within the Evo before doing anything.
Dumb question (I'm new to Android):
When switching ROMs, both of which you have a backup for, do you have to wipe, flash the rom, then flash the nandroid backup?
Or would wiping and then flashing the backup work the same?
I have Fresh and Avalaunch's Froyo with all my apps both backed up. I realize it won't save much time, but I wouldn't have to keep both ROMs on my SD card if I could just use the backup to switch.
Thanks for the guide.
elr0y said:
Dumb question (I'm new to Android):
When switching ROMs, both of which you have a backup for, do you have to wipe, flash the rom, then flash the nandroid backup?
Or would wiping and then flashing the backup work the same?
I have Fresh and Avalaunch's Froyo with all my apps both backed up. I realize it won't save much time, but I wouldn't have to keep both ROMs on my SD card if I could just use the backup to switch.
Thanks for the guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you should wipe. the backup will save everything you had on the respective rom
Yes awesome guide thanks, just what I was looking for. Stupid question but when I do a "Backup Current ROM" in ROM Manager, does this also back up texts, apps, games etc?
Thanks again webs
elr0y said:
Dumb question (I'm new to Android):
When switching ROMs, both of which you have a backup for, do you have to wipe, flash the rom, then flash the nandroid backup?
Or would wiping and then flashing the backup work the same?
I have Fresh and Avalaunch's Froyo with all my apps both backed up. I realize it won't save much time, but I wouldn't have to keep both ROMs on my SD card if I could just use the backup to switch.
Thanks for the guide.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To switch ROM by restoring nand backups all you should have to do is go into recovery and restore the one you want. If you wanted to be safe you could wipe first. As far as flashing that rom before nand backup no. There would be no point of that. The nand backup restores ALL, everything that was on that phone previously. It is a full backup.
huzvi88 said:
Yes awesome guide thanks, just what I was looking for. Stupid question but when I do a "Backup Current ROM" in ROM Manager, does this also back up texts, apps, games etc?
Thanks again webs
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it should backup everything. Upon restore your phone should look and act just as it was when you created that backup. The backup system in Rom Manager boots the phone to recovery and does a nand backup for you.
webs05 said:
Yes, it should backup everything. Upon restore your phone should look and act just as it was when you created that backup. The backup system in Rom Manager boots the phone to recovery and does a nand backup for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha that was my next question. Thanks really appreciate it!
huzvi88 said:
Haha that was my next question. Thanks really appreciate it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your welcome, and the same goes to everyone else.
I'm an idiot i think and just bricked my phone.
I used revoke website to root my phone I did not do a nand unlock. I then installed rom manager because I wanted to backup the current stock rom. I used the option to flash in something from rom manager and then back up. after that my phone restarted and all I see is a picture of a phone with and exclamation point. am I bricked? anything I can do? sorry I'm a noob.
-U
usctrunks said:
I'm an idiot i think and just bricked my phone.
I used revoke website to root my phone I did not do a nand unlock. I then installed rom manager because I wanted to backup the current stock rom. I used the option to flash in something from rom manager and then back up. after that my phone restarted and all I see is a picture of a phone with and exclamation point. am I bricked? anything I can do? sorry I'm a noob.
-U
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol! You are fine. Fortunately HTC makes their phone tough to brick.
You are at that screen because you only did part 1 of Unrevoked's system. They have released part 2. Follow that and you should be good to go. Post questions on their threads. Good luck.
lol thanks

Restoring a Nandroid...how can I optimize?

My understanding of backing up a nandroid is that it creates an exact backup of your phone, as is, which can then easily be restored.
As advised, I have been trying out a couple of different ROMs to see which is best for me and with the advice of many of you, Ive mostly figured that process out.
But where I am struggling is figuring out how to optimize my use of Nandroids to streamline this. Heres the specific issue:
I flashed a ROM and then set everything up. I created my desktop screens, shortcuts to key contacts and apps, widgets, etc. Loaded pictures into my photo app, labeled favorites...usual stuff.
I then created a backup.
When I went to restore this backup, I ran into a bunch of issues. For example, the contact shortcuts were still in my launcher (Apex), but if I click on them they either pull up an incorrect contact or say "no such contact exists". So in the end, I need to go through and create all of these shortcuts again from scratch. Similar experience when I open the photo app (JustPictures) where all of the favorite labeled pictures are now gone. Other examples include apps that were on the device, but now no longer appear.
None of this is hard to fix, but it is very time consuming and makes it hard to use backup/recovery as a way to seamlessly flash and move between configured ROMs.
Am I doing something wrong? Any advice on how to optimize this so I can make this process manageable and not a barrier to trying something new but easily reverting when necessary?
You must he doing something wrong. I have never had any issues restoring a backup. And have never seen anyone else post about such things. You need to explain every step you took. It literally should be as simple as rebooting into recovery, clicking "Backup", let it do its thing, flash some other ROM, go play around with it, dislike it, refrain from posting in the ROM thread something like "tried out this ROM but didn't like it so I'm restoring a backup," reboot back into recovery, select "Restore", choose your backup, let it do its thing, and BOOM, back to the way it was.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using xda app-developers app
If you're not "wiping clean" system,data,cache , before restoring backups , do it ... or you'll face the problems you mentioned ... Actually you should never install or restore anything without formatting all those 3 areas..
Use also a good recovery , sk8witski 14.6 latest one ...
mahanddeem said:
If you're not "wiping clean" system,data,cache , before restoring backups , do it ... or you'll face the problems you mentioned ... Actually you should never install or restore anything without formatting all those 3 areas..
Use also a good recovery , sk8witski 14.6 latest one ...
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Thanks! I went back and tried re-doing this step and it helped.
A related question: I use Apex Launcher and have a desktop customized with shortcuts to most used apps and contacts.
When I am flashing a NEW ROM (not restoring) - what is the best way to restore the desktop and shortcuts without having to manually redo it for each new ROM I try? This is definitely the biggest barrier for me in testing new ROMs as it takes a lot of work to redo each time and, without redoing it, its hard to simulate the same usage and experience when I move to something new.
If I just restore Apex with Titanium after flashing, often all the links/shortcuts/widgets are broken and need to be redone. Is there an order with which I need to reload/restore things? Is there a better way to backup and restore Apex settings so that they will come back and properly link to the underlying contacts and apps on a new ROM?
Thoughts?
Isn't there an option within the Apex settings to save your current configuration, or backup data, or something like that? Check there and try that.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using xda app-developers app
Yes now I see that. I had been backing up via Titanium and restoring Apex using "restore App + Data".
I will play around with those, see what works or doesnt and report back in case its helpful to others.
Thanks.

Titanium Backup troubleshooting

So I have been using TB for years now, since back in the day that I had the HTC Hero and I have never had a problem with it until now. There are some certain apps that it will just not restore no matter what I try. It begins restoring the others just fine but when it gets to the same exact apps, it just stops and freezes.
I am using the Restore missing apps with data option.
I have tried deleting all backups and backing up again. I have tried verifying my backups various times. I have also tried not using batch restore for those specific apps (Going directly to that app and restoring just that one app with and without data, and it just hangs as well).
I am using SuperSU with my binary updated and busy box installed. I also changed the application processing mode to indirect. Is anyone else having this same issue? Its not on one specific rom, it happens on every rom I flash may it be stock based or aosp. I have exactly 112 apps backed up so when I have to force stop TB, and go back to uncheck the apps that are not restoring various times to restore the rest, it sucks especially since I am very picky with things working as they should.
Apps it will not restore:
Tippy Tipper
Subway Surfer
Nimble Quest
Battlefriends at sea gold
Commander (Star wars)
Instasize
If anyone has any idea what may be causing this and how to fix it, please let me know. Thank you beforehand!
What kernel do you have installed?
Stock CM that came with the official CM12 rom.
But either way, I have had this issue on every rom I have flashed.
valdesr11 said:
But either way, I have had this issue on every rom I have flashed.
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I've had this happen to me, but I don't remember what I did to fix it.
Do you have SELinux in permissive mode?
guyd said:
I've had this happen to me, but I don't remember what I did to fix it.
Do you have SELinux in permissive mode?
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Where do I check this?
valdesr11 said:
Where do I check this?
Click to expand...
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> About Phone > SELinux Status
It's in enforced mode. How can I change it?
valdesr11 said:
It's in enforced mode. How can I change it?
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I use this https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mrbimc.selinux
I tested this out and I am still having the same issue with the same apps.
I am having a similar issue. Diff device, but I couldn't find any other info. Oddly yesterday it restored no problem.
I was on a diff rom tho. Maybe I'll flash another rom.
valdesr11 said:
I tested this out and I am still having the same issue with the same apps.
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If you go to the play store are you able to install them? I have had a few that i can't restore, but once I've installed them from the play store I can restore the backed up data. I haven't been able to figure out why some restore and others don't (unless they aren't compatible with the DPI and the Android version I've found a few that when you look them up in the play store they are not compatible)
scubamikejax904 said:
If you go to the play store are you able to install them? I have had a few that i can't restore, but once I've installed them from the play store I can restore the backed up data. I haven't been able to figure out why some restore and others don't (unless they aren't compatible with the DPI and the Android version I've found a few that when you look them up in the play store they are not compatible)
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I have been able to install them from the play store without any issue, I just can't restore them using TB no matter what I try. And its weird that its the same apps every time. So it is something that those apps have that does not get along. Can someone manipulate the situation and check on their end? I am running Illusion (Latest version from the 18th) and latest version of TB. See if you can restore those specific apps backed up from any rom.
Try changing the mount namespace separation setting in super su. I got that message when I first installed titanium it was a warning I don't know what it does or if it will fix your problem
I realized today that when backing up the specific apps after deleting all backups (Fresh backup), it rushes through those specific apps like as if it doesn't want to back it up but it doesn't give me an error message.
some apps don't like restoring to a different rom than they were made on.
Have you tried using the option in TB to create an update.zip you can then flash?
Hi there in desperation I come to this thread. Ive tried everything thats suggested in this thread and more.
TT backup Pro home page shows all necessary items like Root etc checked.
Problems with Pro:
1..Nandroid restore crashes immediately on item selection eg as soon as Menu Item Nandroid is selected Titanium crashes.
2..As mentioned by others, some apps wont restore; TT sits there in restore mode with nothing happening. This is on several apps.
3..Menu/Backup data to XML Bookmarks=yes Messages=yes Call log=crash/'Unfortunately, TT bup has stopped.'
4..Several other annoyances in reliability but the above are most important.
I have politely asked Titanium for support but they dont bother answering. After a few days waiting I gave the app a feedback of 1 on Play thinking that would get some response but no!
In 20 years of computer work, I have never had a software supplier with such a terrible support policy, and the feedback page for this app supports this comment.
Im sorry to have to come to this forum asking for help, but the Titanium folks leave me no choice.
As an aside I also use 'Backup Your Mobile' which IMHO is better at restoring settings and reliably restores apps with settings at no cost if you can put up with the ads.
Kind regards,
Alistair.
Since this post and no replies I have submitted 2 more support requests with TTBup support which is done via a web page interface. I even supplied a small video showing the problem. Alogcat does not report any errors which is odd.
Still no replies from TTBup support.

[SOLVED] Cannot restore Helium backup (nor adb backup)

Hi all, I'm trying to transfer all my apps and data from my previous (non-rooted) phone to my S7.
I used helium backup before, so I went ahead and backed up everything, but restoring fails. I then discovered that all Helium does is call the equivalent of "adb restore", so I decided to try the manual way. I performed a full backup ("adb backup -all") from my old phone, and it created a sizable 1.7Gb backup.db file, but when I went to restore it ("adb restore backup.db"), the S7 showed the prompt asking "A full backup of all data to a connected desktop computer has been requested", instead of the restore prompt. I noticed Helium gets the same prompt when trying to restore.
Anybody having the same issue, or any idea of what's going on?
My phone is a SM-G930F (UK Exynos) model, running Android 7.0.
My computer is running linux with adb version 1.0.36.
Any help is appreciated. I haven't rooted my S7 yet, and I'm debating if I should, but if I had root on the S7, would this be any easier? Keep in mind that the old phone (honor 5x) is not rooted, so titanium backup is not an option.
Thanks!
Tl;DR: it evenaually, magically started working
As it turns out, this device (and maybe others) shows the "Full backup" UI and asks permission to "BACK UP MY DATA" even when requested to restore, so, in fact, clicking "BACK UP MY DATA" restores it. Very intuitive. The issue must've been somewhere inside adb, but I was able to bypass it using the /system/bin/bu utility directly, as in:
Code:
cat backup.ab | adb shell /system/bin/bu restore
Unfortunately, after waiting several minutes for that to finish, none of my app data was there. Great.
Alright, let's have another look at Helium: since it uses some kind of UI automation, I can only guess it gets confused by the misleading UI, and so I discovered the option "Use key events instead of tap events" under settings. I don't know if that made any difference honestly, I just know that I tried again and it finally restored my apps. I then disabled it, and tried to re-restore something, and again it worked... sigh.
Basically, I still have no clue about what went wrong, but it eventually worked. I just wish Google provided a universal backup solution for all android devices, or even better, let us have root so I can use Titanium! After all I'm root on my PC, why do I have to jump through hoops to get the same on my phone?
Going through this ordeal reminded me of why I don't like upgrade to a new device very often.
hello i have a samsung s7 vodafone-Italy. I have a problem with connection with helium backup, i have a version 6 of android.
Well I install helium backup on smartphone, i have install some drivers (maybe not good??) i have installa application helium for chrome, and i try on windows 7 and windows 8.
I open helium on smartphone, connect cable, ask for PTP mode, i go to set up, i set PTP but smartphone ask me again select and enable PTP CAN YOU help me, i want to backup smartphone.
With samsung program i backup smartphone...and i have no problem, but is not usefull.
Best regards.
aslomagic said:
As it turns out, this device (and maybe others) shows the "Full backup" UI and asks permission to "BACK UP MY DATA" even when requested to restore, so, in fact, clicking "BACK UP MY DATA" restores it. Very intuitive. The issue must've been somewhere inside adb, but I was able to bypass it using the /system/bin/bu utility directly, as in:
Code:
cat backup.ab | adb shell /system/bin/bu restore
Unfortunately, after waiting several minutes for that to finish, none of my app data was there. Great.
Alright, let's have another look at Helium: since it uses some kind of UI automation, I can only guess it gets confused by the misleading UI, and so I discovered the option "Use key events instead of tap events" under settings. I don't know if that made any difference honestly, I just know that I tried again and it finally restored my apps. I then disabled it, and tried to re-restore something, and again it worked... sigh.
Basically, I still have no clue about what went wrong, but it eventually worked. I just wish Google provided a universal backup solution for all android devices, or even better, let us have root so I can use Titanium! After all I'm root on my PC, why do I have to jump through hoops to get the same on my phone?
Going through this ordeal reminded me of why I don't like upgrade to a new device very often.
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