[Q] How to check which Bootloader I have - Asus Transformer TF700

Hi fellow modders,
Been flashing lots of devices, very seasoned at this.
SO many threads warn users to have "The lastest JB bootloader".
I upgraded to 4.1 with the stock ASUS firmware using TWRP. Now I'm running CleanRom 2.4.
I don't know where and how to check which bootloader I have.
If I do have the old bootloader, is there a guide to upgrade my bootloader?
Thanks!
Miguel:victory:

My bootloader version shows up when I hold volume down when booting. It's displayed in the top left corner when the 4 boot options appear...

solar_burn said:
Hi fellow modders,
Been flashing lots of devices, very seasoned at this.
SO many threads warn users to have "The lastest JB bootloader".
I upgraded to 4.1 with the stock ASUS firmware using TWRP. Now I'm running CleanRom 2.4.
I don't know where and how to check which bootloader I have.
If I do have the old bootloader, is there a guide to upgrade my bootloader?
Thanks!
Miguel:victory:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, if you're so experienced, sir, you could've (and probably should've) come to an answer all by yourself, just by reading. In the CleanROM thread, Scott put forth that you NEED a JB bootloader (which is "the" latest version) to boot it at all. And if in doubt, I'd say flash the latest ASUS stock ROM. You have plenty of experience, right?
By the way: in my gut feling, there's a relatively high percentage of "experienced users" (or at least people regarding themselves that way) bricking their TF700. Wonder why that is. Humble down a bit.

It's not quite that simple...
Not every firmware update has an updated bootloader, because not every update needs a different bootloader. Yes, you can flash the latest firmware, but there's no guarantee that it will contain the latest bootloader...

So I pressed the button combo to see my boot loader, I got 2.10e. I'm sure I can find out which version number I need on my own. Which version do you have?
I didn't even notice that tiny text! Thanks form the tip! Danger_rat. Although I did flash the latest Asus firmware before using clean ROM as I was concerned about the need for the latest boot loader. Just didn't know if I upgraded it or how to tell.
Thanks Danger_rat! Knew you guys would come through
I know you don't have to help but you took the time, so thank you.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

Mine shows:
Android cardhu-user bootloader <1.00e> released by "US_epad-10.4.4.18-20121012" A03

danger-rat said:
Mine shows:
Android cardhu-user bootloader <1.00e> released by "US_epad-10.4.4.18-20121012" A03
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the WW version since I'm in Canada, maybe that's why mine says 2.0e?
Either way, I'll look up the version numbers later.
Thanks Danger_rat!

danger-rat said:
It's not quite that simple...
Not every firmware update has an updated bootloader, because not every update needs a different bootloader. Yes, you can flash the latest firmware, but there's no guarantee that it will contain the latest bootloader...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The complete firmware always includes the bootloader.
---------- Post added at 09:31 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:29 AM ----------
solar_burn said:
I got the WW version since I'm in Canada, maybe that's why mine says 2.0e?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I checked all my WW bootloaders:
ICS bootloaders say "2.10 e" at least for versions starting with 9.4.5.26 - don't have older ones.
JB bootloaders say "1.00 e" (yes, funny, isn't it?)

Why the hell does ASUS keep breaking chronology with the ICS/JB naming scheme? Ugh, this is making things even more complicated, as it provides even more numbers to reckon with. Thanks for pointing the numbers out, though, that might come in handy later on.

MartyHulskemper said:
Why the hell does ASUS keep breaking chronology with the ICS/JB naming scheme? Ugh, this is making things even more complicated, as it provides even more numbers to reckon with. Thanks for pointing the numbers out, though, that might come in handy later on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe that was actually Nvidia's idea - or for some reason Asus decided to use an older bootloader for the newer OS. But it's easier to use the text after "released by" anyway.

_that said:
The complete firmware always includes the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I know, but some people got to JB via OTA updates which may not contain the bootloader.
I basically thought the other response was overly aggressive, unpleasant, and unhelpful, so I was trying be a bit more helpful - after all, isn't that the whole point?

danger-rat said:
Yes, I know, but some people got to JB via OTA updates which may not contain the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OTA updates also contain the bootloader (when it changes). And since the dlpkgfiles are strictly incremental (they check for the exact version to upgrade from), you can't skip or miss the update with the bootloader.

_that said:
OTA updates also contain the bootloader (when it changes). And since the dlpkgfiles are strictly incremental (they check for the exact version to upgrade from), you can't skip or miss the update with the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll take your word for this device, but historically that hasn't been the case for all Android devices, but that's not really the point -- the OP wanted to know what bootloader version he had, and I was simply trying to help...

danger-rat said:
I'll take your word for this device, but historically that hasn't been the case for all Android devices, but that's not really the point -- the OP wanted to know what bootloader version he had, and I was simply trying to help...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciated. My point was that a stock ROM *downloaded* from ASUS will contain the then-current bootloader. It' d be a pain to flash and then have to reflash the desired custom ROM, but it is not exactly the end of the world either. (Although it did feel that way when my update from .22 resulted in the recovery being reset to the useless stock recovery version.
As far as your opinion of my style or phrasing is concerned: not every meal is to everyone's taste. You'll have to deal with it.

Related

Rooting and unlocking after JB Update

Is there any way to root or unlock the Infinity after updating to Jellybean. The current methods do not work. Will i have to wait for someone to come up with a new tool or what
Downgrade back to .30
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1915598
Install SuperSU and OTARootKeeper
Use OTARootKeeper to protect root
Update to JB
Use OTARootKeeper to restore root
macaumen said:
Downgrade back to .30
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1915598
Install SuperSU and OTARootKeeper
Use OTARootKeeper to protect root
Update to JB
Use OTARootKeeper to restore root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks like there is different versions of .30 does it matter what one. Thank you so much
Just follow the SKU of your infinity and download the file from ASUS.
macaumen said:
Just follow the SKU of your infinity and download the file from ASUS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Man i am so confused right now. I have hacked many phones including my S3 and flashed many times. I am just confused coming to Asus. I have never had a asus device before and down want to screw anything up. Any extra help would be greatly liked thanks man
aldude345 said:
Man i am so confused right now. I have hacked many phones including my S3 and flashed many times. I am just confused coming to Asus. I have never had a asus device before and down want to screw anything up. Any extra help would be greatly liked thanks man
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Settings --> About tablet --> Build number
There you will find something like "XX_epad" in the middle of that very long string. In which XX = your tablet's SKU. It can be US, WW, TW, etc.
Sorry, I don't have my tablet in my hands. Cannot get you a screenshot. I am sure there's some around the forum.
Let me know if you can find it
macaumen said:
Settings --> About tablet --> Build number
There you will find something like "XX_epad" in the middle of that very long string. In which XX = your tablet's SKU. It can be US, WW, TW, etc.
Sorry, I don't have my tablet in my hands. Cannot get you a screenshot. I am sure there's some around the forum.
Let me know if you can find it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome i see its the US version. I have found it on Asus website. Now one more thing and this may sound stupid. I see it says put it in adb/fastboot. where is that exactly haha thanks again
Oh wait, I guess you haven't unlocked the infinity yet. Fastboot is available only after unlocking. I haven't unlocked mine, so I am not very familiar with that.
Using adb connecting to your tablet through command prompt is essentially the same as running terminal emulator on the tablet. I guess you should be familiar with adb as you hacked many phones already.
You know what. I heard that the unlock tool also works in JB for TF300T. I guess it should be working on TF700T with JB also. You can try it first before downgrading.
You can try this guide to downgrade to .30. Just download the .30 file instead of .22 stated in the post.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1803343

Somewhat worried...

Hi people. Just this morning, I finally got the nerve to unlock. I had to downgrade doing it. Now, I heard after unlocking, an ota will brick tablet. For some reason, the new firmware downloaded. It's trying to update, and I don't know how to stop it. Also, stock browser disappeared too. What can I do before tablet bricks?
redheadplantguy said:
Hi people. Just this morning, I finally got the nerve to unlock. I had to downgrade doing it. Now, I heard after unlocking, an ota will brick tablet. For some reason, the new firmware downloaded. It's trying to update, and I don't know how to stop it. Also, stock browser disappeared too. What can I do before tablet bricks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
go to the root of your external sd card and delete all the zip file(s), you probably left it there when you downgrade. Also delete file from internal sdcard in /cache/recover if any. Once you unlocked you shouldn't receive anymore OTA.
redheadplantguy said:
I finally got the nerve to unlock. I had to downgrade doing it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Strange, many people said the unlock tool works fine on JB.
redheadplantguy said:
Now, I heard after unlocking, an ota will brick tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where?
I don't say it cannot brick your tablet, but I am not aware of any reports that it does.
redheadplantguy said:
Hi people. Just this morning, I finally got the nerve to unlock. I had to downgrade doing it. Now, I heard after unlocking, an ota will brick tablet. For some reason, the new firmware downloaded. It's trying to update, and I don't know how to stop it. Also, stock browser disappeared too. What can I do before tablet bricks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As said by the first responder, you can delete the cached firmware file. I do not expect the OTA to brick your tablet, but you could interrupt the process if you really wanted to.
Even with a brick, there are loads of possibilities of flashing a firmware file from ASUS' repository. Then you'd have a fresh tablet OS to your convenience. The situation you describe above does not exactly ruffle any my feathers.
EDIT: just in case you are not yet on .30 or higher... get Nvflash on there!
MartyHulskemper said:
As said by the first responder, you can delete the cached firmware file. I do not expect the OTA to brick your tablet, but you could interrupt the process if you really wanted to.
Even with a brick, there are loads of possibilities of flashing a firmware file from ASUS' repository. Then you'd have a fresh tablet OS to your convenience. The situation you describe above does not exactly ruffle any my feathers.
EDIT: just in case you are not yet on .30 or higher... get Nvflash on there!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i could be mistaken. alas, i can't get nvflash. i wish i could. i didnt expect firmware to come in after unlock.
redheadplantguy said:
i could be mistaken. alas, i can't get nvflash. i wish i could. i didnt expect firmware to come in after unlock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you unlocked your device, there will be NO OTA update, unless the download happened before you unlocked or you may have the update software sitting in your external SDcard or in internal SDcard /cache/recovery.
buhohitr said:
If you unlocked your device, there will be NO OTA update, unless the download happened before you unlocked or you may have the update software sitting in your external SDcard or in internal SDcard /cache/recovery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It downloaded, showing a progress bar. Later I reset, and this morning, it downloaded again. It showed it actually downloading.
redheadplantguy said:
It downloaded, showing a progress bar. Later I reset, and this morning, it downloaded again. It showed it actually downloading.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You must be "the chosen one", first I heard of OTA stills working after you unlocked. Just verify that you actually "unlocked", by reboot your device and it should shows "your device is unlock" during booting up. If it does, then you are the chosen one. You can update as long as you are pure stock rom, and if you have root, just use OTA root keeper to keep root then you can update your pure stock rom to the new version. If you mod/freeze system apps then the update will fail. I never heard of updating of a stock rom with unlocked bootloader will brick your device. It will brick your device if you modded or using custom rom.
EDIT: If you don't want to do through OTA, you could download full package rom from Aus site, unzip then copy the new zip file to the root of your external SDcand. Disabled wifi (no more download) then delete the update file located in your internal memory /cache/recovery. Turn off your device, go into recovery mode by hold down volume down+power button, then install from there.
buhohitr said:
You must be "the chosen one", first I heard of OTA stills working after you unlocked. Just verify that you actually "unlocked", by reboot your device and it should shows "your device is unlock" during booting up. If it does, then you are the chosen one. You can update as long as you are pure stock rom, and if you have root, just use OTA root keeper to keep root then you can update your pure stock rom to the new version. If you mod/freeze system apps then the update will fail. I never heard of updating of a stock rom with unlocked bootloader will brick your device. It will brick your device if you modded or using custom rom.
EDIT: If you don't want to do through OTA, you could download full package rom from Aus site, unzip then copy the new zip file to the root of your external SDcand. Disabled wifi (no more download) then delete the update file located in your internal memory /cache/recovery. Turn off your device, go into recovery mode by hold down volume down+power button, then install from there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Yeah, says "the device is unlocked." In tiny white letters very top left. I hope my glitch doesn't interfere in me flashing new ROM's
Odd, did factory reset, and lost root AND twrp. Had to reflash it.
redheadplantguy said:
Thanks. Yeah, says "the device is unlocked." In tiny white letters very top left. I hope my glitch doesn't interfere in me flashing new ROM's
Odd, did factory reset, and lost root AND twrp. Had to reflash it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That does sound like it actually flashed something (at least partly). I would run that unlock tool another time just to be sure I wouldn't get into trouble down the road (Having an ASUS OTA flash right on top of your CleanROM/CM10/AOKP could be a minor disaster, or a pretty disastrous disaster, depending on what ROM of these you were on. Flashing over stock, well... minor nuisance, but it would be majorly inconvenient to have to flash root and stuff all the time.)
MartyHulskemper said:
Having an ASUS OTA flash right on top of your CleanROM/CM10/AOKP could be a minor disaster, or a pretty disastrous disaster, depending on what ROM of these you were on.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, it just doesn't work. The updater-script inside the OTA package compares the checksums of the system apps to be patched, and aborts as soon as one doesn't match the previous stock ROM.
The only potential danger I see is the communication with the bootloader which kernel to boot - the OTA downloader (DMClient) somehow has to instruct the bootloader to load the recovery kernel to install the dlpkgfile from /cache, and if that process is still not understood by custom recovery creators (there were some problems apparently, I don't know if they are solved), you might end up with a device that only boots into the recovery and not into Android.
Thanks. I will.
Sent from my SGH-T679 using Xparent ICS Blue Tapatalk 2

[Q] Is it possible to root after jellybean update WITHOUT unlocking?

I recently bought my new Transformer Infinity and like an idiot I updated to jellybean without thinking if I wanted to root first.
I've tried several different ways but I can't get my TF700t to root after updating so that leads me to ask if I must unlock before rooting after jellybean?
I've tried downgrading and that is to say I've put the 9.4.5.30 update in my root of the microsd card and when I go to recovery boot i just get the little guy on his back with a red triangle and black exlamation mark.
I realize unlocking will void my warranty which I am a little hesitant, though I never purchased any warranty with my tf700t but i think i can do so now.
I tried following this post:
Thanks for the reply, but i've been working on this for the past couple of hrs and my issue is solved. i'm currently back at 4.1.1 Jellybean again and Root Checker has verified that root is in place. the su binary is also present and all apps that need root work properly (Busybox, Titanium Backup, etc). i've also rebooted and rechecked several times to be sure, it say rooted every time now, whereas it didnt before. I managed to do all of this without unlocking the bootloader as well, even though what i've read elsewhere says it is necessary to do so.
I would have agreed with you before on your point that OTA updates are irreversible, and they usually are, but my experience today shows otherwise. however, you are right that each OTA will probably make it harder to reroot or stay rooted. you're also right that factory reset only wipes data but not firmware, which i just recently figured out today before you posted. i used the "about tablet" section in settings both before and after my steps below to verify that i had indeed downgraded/upgraded firmware/Android versions from JB to ICS and vice versa.
here are the steps i took, in sequential order, so that maybe anyone else with my issue can benefit. i cant gaurantee it will work for everyone:
1. downgraded from 4.1.1 JB firmware to "Eee Pad Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T Firmware: V9.4.5.30 Only for US SKU (Android 4.0.3)". This will roll you back from Jellybean to Ice Cream Sandwich. go to support.asus.com, enter TF700T as the model number, and scroll down until you find this, then download it and unzip the zip file to the root of your sdcard (there is a zip file within the downloaded zip, place that at the root, not the downloaded file itself). if you are using a TF700T that is not US-based then download the appropriate file for your region, just make sure that it has .30 in the file name. I read on a forum somewhere that this is the only firmware update for this device that enables downgrading from higher version to 4.0.3, although it's possible that others may work. then power off your device and do a cold boot (hold down left volume and then followed by power button, do this for about 10 seconds. when you get to the desktop/start screen you will see "Safe Mode" in lower left corner, then your device will notify that an update is available. tell it to apply and let it reboot. when it powers back on you should be back at 4.0.3
2. Do a factory reset, this can be done either before or after the step above, but i did it after. i'm not sure if this is necessary , but just to be on the safe side. back-up all important info, apps, etc beforehand
3. I used the method at Simple Guide to Root TF700T Asus Transformer Pad Infinity : Tips For Tab . this guide can also be found at other websites, but the steps are the same and the files/utilities needed are the same as well. just follow the steps. this will not work if you are still at 4.1.1, you will get the error i detailed in my last post.
4. Download Root Checker (to verify root access) and make sure you have the latest Superuser installed from Play (SuperSU may also work but i'm not sure, i'm using the paid version of Superuser Elite). and also get Voodoo OTA RootKeeper (free), this has a function that will allow you to restore root access after upgrading to 4.1.1. Superuser Elite also has a "ota survival" function that does essentially the same, both worked for me (this software isnt free). and get Busybox and a terminal emulator like Better Terminal Emulator or Android Terminal Emulator. i'm not even sure if these last 2/3 are absolutely necessary, but they install essential must-have functions that all root users should have.
5. then use RootKeeper and make a backup of the su binary, or place a checkmark beside the "ota survival" function in Superuser Elite. either will backup the su info so that it can be restored.
6. Next, do a direct OTA upgrade to 4.1.1 JB , either by using the built-in firmware update function, or by manually downloading from the website and updating using the method listed above. Do NOT do a restore to factory backup state after this point (especially after), it will most likely wipe out the backups of su made by RootKeeper/Superuser Elite.
7. after the upgrade is finished you will be back at start screen at at 4.1.1, use Root Checker and it will say you're not rooted. Then use either of the 2 programs ive outlined to restore the su binary from the backup. in SU(E) just uncheck and recheck the OTA Survival box, or in RootKeeper just restore from backup. Then go back to Root Checker after doing either of these, it should say rooted. reboot and recheck to make sure.
8. That's it! just wash, rinse and repeat when the next firmware update is available, hopefully these same steps should work
Also make sure to keep a backup of the su binaries/app from here onwards, otherwise at some point in the future you may lose the ability to simply restore from backup after each OTA Firmware update. you will have to start over from the beginning.
I'm sure someone figured this out already, but i figured i would post anyways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
but i couldn't even downgrade
Beret67 said:
I recently bought my new Transformer Infinity and like an idiot I updated to jellybean without thinking if I wanted to root first.
I've tried several different ways but I can't get my TF700t to root after updating so that leads me to ask if I must unlock before rooting after jellybean?
I've tried downgrading and that is to say I've put the 9.4.5.30 update in my root of the microsd card and when I go to recovery boot i just get the little guy on his back with a red triangle and black exlamation mark.
I realize unlocking will void my warranty which I am a little hesitant, though I never purchased any warranty with my tf700t but i think i can do so now.
I tried following this post:
but i couldn't even downgrade
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you get the old ROM from? ASUS isnt hosting it anymore and it HAS TO BE a factory original Firmware signed properly or it will not take. In fact you should see "Signature Match" (or maybe its matched) in the top left corner in recovery.
I'm not saying that message is a guarantee you have the right ROM but its a good sign.
The default warranty is like a year so I wouldnt want to unlock either.
hx4700 Killer said:
Where did you get the old ROM from? ASUS isnt hosting it anymore and it HAS TO BE a factory original Firmware signed properly or it will not take. In fact you should see "Signature Match" (or maybe its matched) in the top left corner in recovery.
I'm not saying that message is a guarantee you have the right ROM but its a good sign.
The default warranty is like a year so I wouldnt want to unlock either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the update that said: Eee Pad Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T Firmware: V9.4.5.30 Only for US SKU (Android 4.0.3) - 2012.09.21 update
from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1946456
And i'm pretty sure it said signature match.
Beret67 said:
I got the update that said: Eee Pad Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T Firmware: V9.4.5.30 Only for US SKU (Android 4.0.3) - 2012.09.21 update
from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1946456
And i'm pretty sure it said signature match.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Makes me wonder if they have broken downgrade on the 10_4_4_25 firmware then?! The TF201 had that happen on the first JB update. You could no longer downgrade to ICS.
Edit, Adding that I just downloaded the US 9.4.5.30 from that site you linked to and an MD5 check confirmed it matches the one I have used 3 times.
hx4700 Killer said:
Makes me wonder if they have broken downgrade on the 10_4_4_25 firmware then?! The TF201 had that happen on the first JB update. You could no longer downgrade to ICS.
Edit, Adding that I just downloaded the US 9.4.5.30 from that site you linked to and an MD5 check confirmed it matches the one I have used 3 times.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The US link?
maybe i just need to redownload it or something and leave it named as is.
So then what can I do?
Beret67 said:
The US link?
maybe i just need to redownload it or something and leave it named as is.
So then what can I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The link you supplied that has all the firmwares there are several that say 9.4.5.30
The first one is WW, World Wide. You need to make sure you get the correct one for your device. So if you bough retail in the US get the second one that says "US". The firmware will not work if you don't get the correct one.
An easy way to tell what you need is to go to settings and scroll down to "About" on the left. Tap About and on the right half scroll down to "Build Number" My daughters TF201 says JRO03c.US_epad........
So she has the US one and would need the US Firmware.
If you have a US device and tried to apply the WW firmware from what I have read it will fail, won't work.. dead andy. Make sure you have the right firmware for your device.
Please post back your results as I am sure many would be interested if ASUS broke reverting to ICS.
Beret67 said:
The US link?
maybe i just need to redownload it or something and leave it named as is.
So then what can I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
After you download the zip file, first you have to UNZIP the zip file and you're going to see another zip file. Now rename this new zip to EP201_768_SDUPDATE.zip , then copy this to the root of your sdcard, boot into recovery and try again.
Beret67 said:
The US link?
maybe i just need to redownload it or something and leave it named as is.
So then what can I do?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I assumed the file rename was in the directions above
The only device I believe you should ever have to root/unlock /jailbreak is the IOS platform. As you probably know, you are extremely limited to any customization with an IOS device. Under the android platform, I find that there are many flavours of customization under the stock setting already. I've ran the TF700T with the latest updates and firmware for the past few months and performance is still optimal ... I also bet that if you had my tablet side by side next to a rooted/unlocked TF700T tablet, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference from a performance perspective. I'm only speaking from a standard user point of view. I can see where a developer may want root access and or someone who wants to learn how to program the OS, create custom ROMS etc., however for the casual user, I'd leave it the way it is.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda app-developers app
Rashar said:
The only device I believe you should ever have to root/unlock /jailbreak is the IOS platform. As you probably know, you are extremely limited to any customization with an IOS device. Under the android platform, I find that there are many flavours of customization under the stock setting already. I've ran the TF700T with the latest updates and firmware for the past few months and performance is still optimal ... I also bet that if you had my tablet side by side next to a rooted/unlocked TF700T tablet, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference from a performance perspective. I'm only speaking from a standard user point of view. I can see where a developer may want root access and or someone who wants to learn how to program the OS, create custom ROMS etc., however for the casual user, I'd leave it the way it is.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guarantee if you unlocked and installed a custom rom you would be blown away with how slow stock is Seriously, how do you know if you haven't done it? Seems like a strange challenge you have set. BTW I don't know one single person who has unlocked and gone to a custom rom who would go back to locked stock because performance is that different. You just don't know it.
sbdags said:
I guarantee if you unlocked and installed a custom rom you would be blown away with how slow stock is Seriously, how do you know if you haven't done it? Seems like a strange challenge you have set. BTW I don't know one single person who has unlocked and gone to a custom rom who would go back to locked stock because performance is that different. You just don't know it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A significant reason for increased performance on custom ROMS is that the kernel they use allows for overclocking usually to 1.8GHZ. Just FYI in the interest of full disclosure.
It is not the ONLY reason but a big part of why they look/feel so much faster.
hx4700 Killer said:
A significant reason for increased performance on custom ROMS is that the kernel they use allows for overclocking usually to 1.8GHZ. Just FYI in the interest of full disclosure.
It is not the ONLY reason but a big part of why they look/feel so much faster.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes kernel tweaking brings huge benefits but there are plenty of other tweaks that bring the perks as well outside the kernel
Hello everyone, I just joined XDA and hope to be a successful contributor to this amazing community. This is my first post, hope it will be of help.
I can confirm that 10.4.4.25 did not break the downgrade option. Like others already suggested, make sure you're using the firmware which matches your device (WW/US/etc.) and you should be fine.
I Just got my device tonight from ASUS (RMA due to crashes every 2.5 days on the clock, black lines every few seconds, extremely laggy).
My precious came with 10.4.4.23 and I upgraded it to 10.4.4.25 to check the performance and black lines issue. With 25 it still lags a little but less than 23 and other earlier firmwares. I ran these tests on 23 then on 25:
1. For real life performance (don't care about synthetic benchmarks) I updated all the apps simultaneously. Both firmwares were laggy but 25 was much less than 23.
2. The black line is still there in 25 but much less than 23. I could reproduce it only with the black hole live wallpaper test which is a very good sign as in 23 I reproduced it a couple of times without the black hole live wallpaper.
After these tests I downgraded successfully to 9.4.5.30 (US) in order to root (need that for Avast FW) with no problems at all. Now I will go root it.
Update: Successfully rooted and upgraded back to 10.4.4.25
G0llum said:
After these tests I downgraded successfully to 9.4.5.30 (US) in order to root (need that for Avast FW) with no problems at all. Now I will go root it.
Update: Successfully rooted and upgraded back to 10.4.4.25
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I downgraded also to clear a few things. After that, I went back in and went to Settings and check updates and nothing show up. How did you upgraded back to the latest version? Can you share your method?
Thank you much.
ils01 said:
I downgraded also to clear a few things. After that, I went back in and went to Settings and check updates and nothing show up. How did you upgraded back to the latest version? Can you share your method?
Thank you much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you rooted? If you are you need to use the dlpkgfile incremental upgrade method can be found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1803090
buhohitr said:
Are you rooted? If you are you need to use the dlpkgfile incremental upgrade method can be found here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1803090
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am rooted now (but still locked). Can I jump directly to 10.4.4.25 using dlpkgfile without doing other middle steps?
Edit: Tried going straight to 10.4.4.25 and failed. No OTA either.
ils01 said:
I am rooted now (but still locked). Can I jump directly to 10.4.4.25 using dlpkgfile without doing other middle steps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No you can't, you need to upgrade to JB .16, then .18 then you can jump to .25.
buhohitr said:
No you can't, you need to upgrade to JB .16, then .18 then you can jump to .25.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you very much. Will do that.
ils01 said:
I downgraded also to clear a few things. After that, I went back in and went to Settings and check updates and nothing show up. How did you upgraded back to the latest version? Can you share your method?
Thank you much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OTA. Immediately after restart the tablet started downloading the update automatically... I postponed the update installation and then rooted, installed voodoo, created su backup, temp un-rooted and only then applied the OTA.
G0llum said:
OTA. Immediately after restart the tablet started downloading the update automatically... I postponed the update installation and then rooted, installed voodoo, created su backup, temp un-rooted and only then applied the OTA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the update.
Mine did not see any update regarless of multiple checkings performed (this was done before any rooting attempted). I am in the process of dowloading dlpkgfiles and slowly doing the hard way.
Update: After I reflashed back to 9.4.5.30 to root, I went on and started updating using dlpkgfile started with .16, .18, .20, .23, and finally .25. All is good now. However, I had a few errors when going from .16 to .18 due to getting incorrect/wrong dlpkgfile.
Thank you for everyone's help.

Downgrade to Android below 4.2

Hi,
I replaced the digitizer in my TF300T, and now I need to run the ASUS touch-tool, to get it to work. However, it's incompatible with Android 4.2 and higher, so I need to flash something older. The problem is, that I cannot find the old bootloader anywhere and ASUS tech support doesn't have it either.
Does anybody have an old backup or something like that? Or maybe there is another way of doing this - if anybody knows, that would be very helpful.
ticorman said:
Hi,
I replaced the digitizer in my TF300T, and now I need to run the ASUS touch-tool, to get it to work. However, it's incompatible with Android 4.2 and higher, so I need to flash something older. The problem is, that I cannot find the old bootloader anywhere and ASUS tech support doesn't have it either.
Does anybody have an old backup or something like that? Or maybe there is another way of doing this - if anybody knows, that would be very helpful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Old firmwares are located here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=33883254&postcount=3
But I'm not sure if you can just flash the 4.1 bootloader and go back to it. There was a method to doing it...Google probably knows :silly: :silly:
Ok, now I'm a bit embarrassed, because it seems the reason I couldn't find anything is I didn't know what I was looking for.
I'm a bit lost - does the firmware file contain the bootloader? My understanding of it was that I need to download the bootloader separately and flash it with Odin, then flash a compatible recovery and ROM (I'm on CM11 now btw). Is that correct?
ticorman said:
Ok, now I'm a bit embarrassed, because it seems the reason I couldn't find anything is I didn't know what I was looking for.
I'm a bit lost - does the firmware file contain the bootloader? My understanding of it was that I need to download the bootloader separately and flash it with Odin, then flash a compatible recovery and ROM (I'm on CM11 now btw). Is that correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Odin is for samsung :silly: :silly:
With asus, the bootloader is included in the firmware upgrades. But like I said, I'm not sure if you can just flash a previous version to revert. I know it works in some cases, but not all.
cmendonc2 said:
Odin is for samsung :silly: :silly:
With asus, the bootloader is included in the firmware upgrades. But like I said, I'm not sure if you can just flash a previous version to revert. I know it works in some cases, but not all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I used to own a Galaxy S3 :silly:
Anyway, will flashing via fastboot work if I'm on CWM recovery (v6.0.4.5), or do I need the stock recovery? I'm scared to try it blindly after reading all the "bricked tabet" threads...
//Edit
Soooo... nothing seemed to work. I just gave up and sent the tablet to a repair shop, where they actually reprogram the digitizer circuit board. Anyway, thanks, cmendonc2, for trying.

6.0.1_MM_Factory_Odin_Tar_Images

Latest DPD1 6.0.1 MM Factory Tar Image​
Full System Restore Images​Fully Stock Odin Factory Tar Image (Caution This Will Lock Your Bootloaders And Keep You From Downgrading To KitKat Firmwares)
6.0.1 MM VZW-G900VVRU2DPD1-20160511030450.zip
5.0 KK G900VVRU2BPB1_G900VVZW2BPB1_VZW.zip
5.0 KK G900VVRU2BOK3_G900VVZW2BOK3_VZW.zip
5.0 KK G900VVRU2BOG5_G900VVZW2BOG5_VZW.zip
Full System Restore Images With No Aboot Bootloader For Dev Unlocked Bootloaders
6.0.1 MM PD1_Full_Factory_Restore_No_Aboot.tar.zip
Firmware Only (Bootloader,Modem,Kernel,Recovery)​
Modem Only​VZW_BOK3_MODEM_NONHLOS_ONLY.tar.md5
VZW_BOK3_MODEM_ONLY.tar.md5
Kernel(Boot.img) Only​VZW_BOK3_KERNEL_ONLY.tar.md5
For Dev. Ed. owners
Here is a full stock tar without the bootloader and without the recovery for Dev. Ed. owners
https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=24052804347794573
Just make sure you have SuperSU on your SD card to flash it in recovery after updating to re-root https://download.chainfire.eu/696/SuperSU
This is for Developer Edition owners only
jrkruse said:
BOG5 Factory Tar Images​
Fully Stock Odin Factory Tar Image (Caution This Will Lock Your Bootloaders And Keep You From Downgrading To Obtain Root!!)
G900VVRU2BOG5_G900VVZW2BOG5_VZW.zip
Full Stock Odin Factory Tar Image With BOD5 Bootloaders (This Will Allow You To Still Downgrade To Earlier Builds)
VZW_BOG5_RETAIL_FULL_FIRMWARE_WITH_BOD5_BL.tar.zip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if I am on Stock OE1 and flash the second link are you saying I can downgrade to root?
XNO said:
So if I am on Stock OE1 and flash the second link are you saying I can downgrade to root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm wondering the same thing. It's been a while since I've heard anything about efforts to downgrade from OE1. I'm unrooted and would so desperately like to root, but unfortunately installed stock OE1 :crying:, and then OG5. I really really hope there will be some method of rooting in my situation. Hating the fact that I bought a device that I can't use the way I'd like because some screwball company thinks people are too stupid to be trusted.
I really appreciate everyone's efforts here. Keep up the wonderful work and keep us updated!
XNO said:
So if I am on Stock OE1 and flash the second link are you saying I can downgrade to root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
equazcion said:
I'm wondering the same thing. It's been a while since I've heard anything about efforts to downgrade from OE1. I'm unrooted and would so desperately like to root, but unfortunately installed stock OE1 :crying:, and then OG5. I really really hope there will be some method of rooting in my situation. Hating the fact that I bought a device that I can't use the way I'd like because some screwball company thinks people are too stupid to be trusted.
I really appreciate everyone's efforts here. Keep up the wonderful work and keep us updated!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry guys! You can try but Im sure the tar image with the bod5 bootloaders will fail if your already on BOE1 or higher
jrkruse said:
Sorry guys! You can try but Im sure the tar image with the bod5 bootloaders will fail if your already on BOE1 or higher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks I found out the hard way LOL. All good now tho.
XNO said:
So if I am on Stock OE1 and flash the second link are you saying I can downgrade to root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I too am interested in this. I lost root and was hoping this version that Verizon installed today would allow me to re-root.
skister77 said:
I too am interested in this. I lost root and was hoping this version that Verizon installed today would allow me to re-root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh dear lord, no no no no. Stop asking the same questions repeatedly hoping for a different answer. For the last time, if you are on oe1 and didn't keep the od bootloader, that's it, you're done.
And for the record, why would Verizon release an update that would re-allow to root? Why would that ever happen intentionally?
skister77 said:
I too am interested in this. I lost root and was hoping this version that Verizon installed today would allow me to re-root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ldeveraux said:
Oh dear lord, no no no no. Stop asking the same questions repeatedly hoping for a different answer. For the last time, if you are on oe1 and didn't keep the od bootloader, that's it, you're done.
And for the record, why would Verizon release an update that would re-allow to root? Why would that ever happen intentionally?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To add to what ldeveraux wrote, your question was literally answered two posts above yours. Does anyone even bother to read anything anymore? Or is it that reading comprehension is completely a thing of the past?
ldeveraux said:
Oh dear lord, no no no no. Stop asking the same questions repeatedly hoping for a different answer. For the last time, if you are on oe1 and didn't keep the od bootloader, that's it, you're done.
And for the record, why would Verizon release an update that would re-allow to root? Why would that ever happen intentionally?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stuff happens. Maybe somebody made a mistake.
Sent from my SM-G900V using XDA Free mobile app
DraconicSeed said:
Stuff happens. Maybe somebody made a mistake.
Sent from my SM-G900V using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's true that mistakes can happen, but once they patch the bootloader to prevent downgrading, they don't actually have to touch it again. So if they don't change anything in it, then the chance of breaking it is slim to none. Not to mention this update didn't do much anyways.
[/COLOR]
ldeveraux said:
Oh dear lord, no no no no. Stop asking the same questions repeatedly hoping for a different answer. For the last time, if you are on oe1 and didn't keep the od bootloader, that's it, you're done.
And for the record, why would Verizon release an update that would re-allow to root? Why would that ever happen intentionally?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So just to be clear Ideveraux, because I don't quite understand, are you saying OE1 is not rootable but OG5 has a chance?
Spartan117H3 said:
It's true that mistakes can happen, but once they patch the bootloader to prevent downgrading, they don't actually have to touch it again. So if they don't change anything in it, then the chance of breaking it is slim to none. Not to mention this update didn't do much anyways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It involved a security update so I was hoping maybe someone messed up somewhere :silly: one can hope. I purchased my phone with OE1 already installed so I was kinda screwed from the ground up and going from an S4 rooted running TWRP and a Hyperdrive ROM to a stock unrooted bloated phone rubs me harsh lol
XNO said:
So just to be clear Ideveraux, because I don't quite understand, are you saying OE1 is not rootable but OG5 has a chance?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anything OE1 or higher cannot be rooted. OG5 is higher than OE1, and therefore has the same issues for people who want to root that OE1 has. OE1 has a bootloader that disallows downgrading of firmware which is required to root these phones. The only way you can still downgrade OE1/OG5 is if you came from a rooted phone and did NOT take OTA OE1/OG5, and flashed a firmware that did not change the bootloader.
DraconicSeed said:
It involved a security update so I was hoping maybe someone messed up somewhere :silly: one can hope. I purchased my phone with OE1 already installed so I was kinda screwed from the ground up and going from an S4 rooted running TWRP and a Hyperdrive ROM to a stock unrooted bloated phone rubs me harsh lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The stagefright that was incompletely patched was apparently 4 lines of code somewhere in one of the system files, wouldn't be in the bootloader. I understand the sentiments, I would have returned the phone immediately in your case. I'm already running out of patience even being rooted, with the locked bootloader and whatnot. Trying to patiently wait for the Nexus 6 2015 this year.
Spartan117H3 said:
Anything OE1 or higher cannot be rooted. OG5 is higher than OE1, and therefore has the same issues for people who want to root that OE1 has. OE1 has a bootloader that disallows downgrading of firmware which is required to root these phones. The only way you can still downgrade OE1/OG5 is if you came from a rooted phone and did NOT take OTA OE1/OG5, and flashed a firmware that did not change the bootloader.
The stagefright that was incompletely patched was apparently 4 lines of code somewhere in one of the system files, wouldn't be in the bootloader. I understand the sentiments, I would have returned the phone immediately in your case. I'm already running out of patience even being rooted, with the locked bootloader and whatnot. Trying to patiently wait for the Nexus 6 2015 this year.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Spartan, I'm just messing with ldeveraux because all i ever read from him is negative comments like he is super annoyed at everyone asking questions.
XNO said:
Thanks Spartan, I'm just messing with ldeveraux because all i ever read from him is negative comments like he is super annoyed at everyone REPEATING questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FTFY
XNO said:
Thanks Spartan, I'm just messing with ldeveraux because all i ever read from him is negative comments like he is super annoyed at everyone asking questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It has been repeated a million times though, in basically every "recent" thread so I can see why people would be frustrated. The issue is, the more people post the same questions, the more hidden the important questions get, leaving people even less likely to read/search the thread for their answers. Just basic forum etiquette IMO. I'm just a little more patient at times answering questions, that's all.
Verizon s5
Spartan117H3 said:
Anything OE1 or higher cannot be rooted. OG5 is higher than OE1, and therefore has the same issues for people who want to root that OE1 has. OE1 has a bootloader that disallows downgrading of firmware which is required to root these phones. The only way you can still downgrade OE1/OG5 is if you came from a rooted phone and did NOT take OTA OE1/OG5, and flashed a firmware that did not change the bootloader.
The stagefright that was incompletely patched was apparently 4 lines of code somewhere in one of the system files, wouldn't be in the bootloader. I understand the sentiments, I would have returned the phone immediately in your case. I'm already running out of patience even being rooted, with the locked bootloader and whatnot. Trying to patiently wait for the Nexus 6 2015 this year.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well it sounds like to me everybody in the computer world cannot find a way to unlock the bootloader that is on OE1 or higher I'm thinking surely there's somebody out there that can figure out a way to do it so I would be able to contain root against
trucker950 said:
well it sounds like to me everybody in the computer world cannot find a way to unlock the bootloader that is on OE1 or higher I'm thinking surely there's somebody out there that can figure out a way to do it so I would be able to contain root against
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There was an $18,000 bounty for a root method and bootloader unlock before one came out. Geohot used Pinkie Pie's findings of an exploit in all Linux kernels to create his root. He now works for Google's Project Zero and isn't allowed to provide root, and even if he was allowed, he probably doesn't care anymore. That exploit has since been patched, hence the need to downgrade to apply Towelroot. Since then, Verizon has blocked the ability to downgrade.
Notes: Bootloader is still locked despite the length of time this phone has been out. This phone is also "dying" and support is mostly gone considering many of the devs went to other devices/new S6, or devices/carriers that don't have this locked bootloader issue. Look at the Note forum. There's still not even a real root for them, they have a temporary one the last time I checked.
So no. Not only are few people looking if they are at all, but support of this phone from Verizon is probably gone as well. This OG5 is more of a mandatory security patch than a new update. 5.0 is most likely the last version for Verizon's S5 (I'd be surprised if they released 5.1/5.1.1).
Spartan117H3 said:
There was an $18,000 bounty for a root method and bootloader unlock before one came out. Geohot used Pinkie Pie's findings of an exploit in all Linux kernels to create his root. He now works for Google's Project Zero and isn't allowed to provide root, and even if he was allowed, he probably doesn't care anymore. That exploit has since been patched, hence the need to downgrade to apply Towelroot. Since then, Verizon has blocked the ability to downgrade.
Notes: Bootloader is still locked despite the length of time this phone has been out. This phone is also "dying" and support is mostly gone considering many of the devs went to other devices/new S6, or devices/carriers that don't have this locked bootloader issue. Look at the Note forum. There's still not even a real root for them, they have a temporary one the last time I checked.
So no. Not only are few people looking if they are at all, but support of this phone from Verizon is probably gone as well. This OG5 is more of a mandatory security patch than a new update. 5.0 is most likely the last version for Verizon's S5 (I'd be surprised if they released 5.1/5.1.1).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You couldn't have summed up the S5 situation any better. Cheers!

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