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[Q] OTA system update 2 days ago?

I'm running KitKat 4.4.2 rooted. Two days ago, Verizon started trying very aggressively to push a system update onto my phone, and they don't say what it is. Does anyone know what they're trying to force into my phone? I do not want to lose root.
Also, is there any way to stop the aggressive update prompts? If I don't manually set a time to be prompted again, it will push the update without my consent. Is there an Xposed Framework module that can help?

permutations said:
I'm running KitKat 4.4.2 rooted. Two days ago, Verizon started trying very aggressively to push a system update onto my phone, and they don't say what it is. Does anyone know what they're trying to force into my phone? I do not want to lose root...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's this (VZW pdf-file). Also see here. Even if you downloaded the OTA, the installation would fail, because your device is rooted.
permutations said:
Also, is there any way to stop the aggressive update prompts? If I don't manually set a time to be prompted again, it will push the update without my consent
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See here. Posts # 4 and #8

Please post your questions in the question and answer section
Thread moved

gregbradley said:
Please post your questions in the question and answer section
Thread moved
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it in the right place now? I get confused about where to post here, sorry.
I can see why they updated the messaging app. It was completely unusable. Is it still KitKat 4.4.2?
Most importantly, if I were to install it, would I still be able to root using the towelroot app?

Not_A_Dev said:
See here. Posts # 4 and #8
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have Titanium Backup (Pro), but I don't see the update app anywhere on my phone. I'll post my question in the other thread. Thanks for the link.

permutations said:
Is it in the right place now? I get confused about where to post here, sorry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I moved it to the Q&A section.
As a good rule. If you are asking a QUESTION and you want an ANSWER post it in the QUESTION and ANSWER section.

Clueless
Hi, I have the Droid Razr Maxx HD xt926 as well and have never done anything with android before in terms of software modification. I first learned how to root my phone and unlock the bootloader in June via the towelroot exploit. I've been wandering around this website wondering how to get this ota update without losing root. I've seen some posts regarding flashing an fxz file, but have also had a hard time understanding what it all means. I have not installed a custom ROM (yet), but when I try to take the ota, it fails because I am obviously rooted. What do I do from this point out? Do I still need to flash a stock image file? Should I just not take the update/is it worth it?

axcelgo said:
Hi, I have the Droid Razr Maxx HD xt926 as well and have never done anything with android before in terms of software modification. I first learned how to root my phone and unlock the bootloader in June via the towelroot exploit. I've been wandering around this website wondering how to get this ota update without losing root. I've seen some posts regarding flashing an fxz file, but have also had a hard time understanding what it all means. I have not installed a custom ROM (yet), but when I try to take the ota, it fails because I am obviously rooted. What do I do from this point out? Do I still need to flash a stock image file? Should I just not take the update/is it worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you decide to install a custom ROM, you won't have to waste another minute pondering the OTA. If you decide to stay on stock, and want to get VZWs latest firmware on your device, I strongly suggest that you triple-read and follow the instructions in this thread to the T. You will then not have to worry about another OTA nag, because this is the last Moto/VZW update for the XT926.

Okay thanks. I saw that thread on the general forum, but wasn't to sure if I should proceed. I'm going to follow the directions on the original post as I had been planning to do, but was too worried about any consequences. I will report back if I have any problems, given that I can follow instructions. I'll probably just go ahead and try to install the most recent stable release of CM when done. Fingers crossed.

Stock Rom Take the update? VZW M8

I It's stock rom but I have have s-off, root, extreme power saver, HK Audio, and multiple x-posed framework stuff installed, hacked Verizon mobile hotspot, .
I keep getting prompted to take the update. Can I simply take the update or will it break stuff I have installed?
I have been reading the forum for about an hour and haven't stumbled on my answer so sorry.
If I should avoid the update for now how do I stop it from prompting me every 10 seconds?

Justintoxicated said:
I It's stock rom but I have have s-off, root, extreme power saver, HK Audio, and multiple x-posed framework stuff installed, hacked Verizon mobile hotspot, .
I keep getting prompted to take the update. Can I simply take the update or will it break stuff I have installed?
I have been reading the forum for about an hour and haven't stumbled on my answer so sorry.
If I should avoid the update for now how do I stop it from prompting me every 10 seconds?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you take the update it will fail. The update script verifies the original files on your phone and will abort because you changed default.xml. If you are interested in taking the update, you must undo your mods. If you are interested in stopping the update prompts, follow the instructions in the thread Block OTA Updates.

netboy3 said:
If you take the update it will fail. The update script verifies the original files on your phone and will abort because you changed default.xml. If you are interested in taking the update, you must undo your mods. If you are interested in stopping the update prompts, follow the instructions in the thread Block OTA Updates.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, renamed the files.
Rather than undoing all the mods, wouldn't it be easier to do a titanium backup then install this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...m-stock-rooted-vzw-ota-2-21-605-2-wp-t2874699
Then add back xposed, hotspot hack, HK sound and Extreme power saver?
Step 1)
So I would flash the Flash the noboot firmware, and the radio from my computer using fastboot using the downloads here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2723159
and directions (not using downlinks) here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=46506621&postcount=2
Which will update firmware and radios but allow me to keep twrp.
Step 2)
Then install the new stock rooted rom using twrp form here http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...-stock-rooted-vzw-ota-2-21-605-2-wp-t2874699?
Sorry if the questions are a little dumb I always find stuff hard to follow on the forums when I haven't logged into them in months...
Step 3) Add back hotspot hack, power saver, extreme power saver, HK sound, exposed etc?

Justintoxicated said:
Thanks, renamed the files.
Rather than undoing all the mods, wouldn't it be easier to do a titanium backup then install this:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...m-stock-rooted-vzw-ota-2-21-605-2-wp-t2874699
Then add back xposed, hotspot hack, HK sound and Extreme power saver?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure that will work. Some folks are simply not interested in having someone else's work on their phone so they'll prefer staying with the official stock ROM, modded by themselves. Also EPS is now included in the latest OTA.

netboy3 said:
Sure that will work. Some folks are simply not interested in having someone else's work on their phone so they'll prefer staying with the official stock ROM, modded by themselves. Also EPS is now included in the latest OTA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have just had back luck with custom roms in the past, nothing against them though! Just that the HTC stock rom is quite good out of the box with a few tweaks
problems with custom roms is they usually exclude something I want, like the mobile hotspot, or the camera software, etc.

Dumb newbie questions (eventually want to downgrade from Lollipop to Kit Kat)

I'm very new to the process of modifying android/firmware/rooting/etc... I want to regain FoxFi (wifi tether) functionality on my Verizon HTC One M8, which was lost with Lollipop. I had been fighting the update for months but it forced itself on me a few weeks ago. I believe my only real option is downgrading to Kit Kat.
I have a long post typed up with my plethora of questions after browsing around a number of forums and blogs the last few weeks, but there are so many basic terms, commands and things I don't understand... I figured it might make things go smoother if I just ask my stupid questions first and then proceed. Plus, I'm an engineer and am generally good with technology, and have wanted to pick up the skills needed to do software version changes/rooting etc for years now. I'll keep the other post typed up (took a while), but won't send it until I get some feedback here... so as to avoid undue spam and clutter.
So, with that all said, dumb question time. Please be kind, lol. Note - if there is an entry level video/picture-laden tutorial that will likely explain all of this, please point me that way and I'll get up to speed as much as i can on my own. There seem to be many tutorials out there but almost all of the One M8 ones seem to have lots of terminology in them I don't get ,yet:
1) What is an RUU?
2) What is the CID? (appears to just be a build # or software version associated with new updates)
3) What is the fastboot folder? What is "hboot"
4) Whats an ADSP?
5) Which SDK/Sync manager will I need on my PC? I have the basic HTC Sync manager (some links suggest its needed)
More questions as they occur to me, thanks all!

Well, hate to burst your bubble, but even after understanding all of these terms you can't downgrade to kit kat after taking the lollipop update. On Verizon htc ones, all system partitions/folders/files are write protected and cannot be modified with fastboot or RUU's in order to downgrade. As of right now, the only way to remove the write protection on lollipop is with an HTC Java card (this process / state is called s-off). Several people on xda have them and might help you out, particularly dottat.
Sorry for ignoring the main question here, I'm just offering what I know and I'll leave the explaining to someone a bit more knowledgeable with htc stuff to answer those questions. (I'm stuck in the same "lollipop lockdown" boat as you)

zphantom55 said:
Well, hate to burst your bubble, but even after understanding all of these terms you can't downgrade to kit kat after taking the lollipop update. On Verizon htc ones, all system partitions/folders/files are write protected and cannot be modified with fastboot or RUU's in order to downgrade. As of right now, the only way to remove the write protection on lollipop is with an HTC Java card (this process / state is called s-off). Several people on xda have them and might help you out, particularly dottat.
Sorry for ignoring the main question here, I'm just offering what I know and I'll leave the explaining to someone a bit more knowledgeable with htc stuff to answer those questions. (I'm stuck in the same "lollipop lockdown" boat as you)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appreciated, no worries!
I had noticed dottat was a prominent figure in many of the downgrade threads, so perhaps I'll try to reach out to him directly.

SadbutTrue999 said:
Appreciated, no worries!
I had noticed dottat was a prominent figure in many of the downgrade threads, so perhaps I'll try to reach out to him directly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For the time being, check the post here. Working solution

Apparently someone successfully rooted verizon htc one m8
Link to steps

You can downgrade back to 4.4.4 as long as you are S-off. It takes some patience to root and get sunshine to S-off. Just make sure you do not try to run an RUU (Rom Update Utility) of an earlier version if you are still S-ON. I would say that if you just want to wifi tether, S-off your phone, flash a recovery, then just flash a 5.1 Rom that has wifi tether working out of the box.

crmcsh01 said:
You can downgrade back to 4.4.4 as long as you are S-off. It takes some patience to root and get sunshine to S-off. Just make sure you do not try to run an RUU (Rom Update Utility) of an earlier version if you are still S-ON. I would say that if you just want to wifi tether, S-off your phone, flash a recovery, then just flash a 5.1 Rom that has wifi tether working out of the box.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So the order of operations is:
1) disable fastboot
2) root
3) unlock bootloader
4) go s-off
5) use RUU
?
As far as what i'm looking for... with Lollipop, tethering itself works, but they make you go through the verizon service (whereas past Android versions could be bypassed with some certificate trickery, which is what Foxfi did), and I don't want to pay $30/mo for something i was getting for free the last 3 years. I also want to root the phone for a few other applications.
I'm not sure what 5.1 Roms would support FoxFi on this phone out of the box (i've heard Samsung's Galaxy S6 continues to support foxfi with verizon and Lollipop, but i'm not sure i could use that rom), which is why 4.4.4 might be easier.
Questions:
1) Is the above order right?
2) Can you disable fastboot with Lollipop? I didn't see the option when i tried.. and i'm seeing some places online saying you can't. What then?
3) I downloaded ADB.. how to you get a command prompt up when connected to the one that lets you send commands to it? Seems basic but ADB has a milllion settings.
4) What else am i forgetting?
Just trying to figure out the first steps... its easy for a newbie to get buried in walkthroughs and new terms. Thanks again!

SadbutTrue999 said:
So the order of operations is:
1) disable fastboot
2) root
3) unlock bootloader
4) go s-off
5) use RUU
?
As far as what i'm looking for... with Lollipop, tethering itself works, but they make you go through the verizon service (whereas past Android versions could be bypassed with some certificate trickery, which is what Foxfi did), and I don't want to pay $30/mo for something i was getting for free the last 3 years. I also want to root the phone for a few other applications.
I'm not sure what 5.1 Roms would support FoxFi on this phone out of the box (i've heard Samsung's Galaxy S6 continues to support foxfi with verizon and Lollipop, but i'm not sure i could use that rom), which is why 4.4.4 might be easier.
Questions:
1) Is the above order right?
2) Can you disable fastboot with Lollipop? I didn't see the option when i tried.. and i'm seeing some places online saying you can't. What then?
3) I downloaded ADB.. how to you get a command prompt up when connected to the one that lets you send commands to it? Seems basic but ADB has a milllion settings.
4) What else am i forgetting?
Just trying to figure out the first steps... its easy for a newbie to get buried in walkthroughs and new terms. Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When it comes time to flash a ROM, I'd humbly suggest CleanROM. It's stock ROM with the Verizon bloatware removed, and it's already rooted for your convenience. Like you, my primary reason for installing a custom ROM was to be able to use my phone as a hotspot. (Verizon will have to pry my unlimited data plan from my cold, dead hands.) CleanROM's native tethering app works out of the box, so there's no need to even install a third-part app like FoxFi. Sadly, it appears that the developer is no longer supporting this ROM, but it's suiting my needs for the time being.
Anyway, I just purchased a used M8 running stock Lollipop last week and here's what I did:
1. Followed the directions here to achieve s-off. (There's nothing in these directions about disabling fastboot.)
2. RUU (because the phone was used and I have no idea what the previous owner did to this thing and I want to start fresh); I followed dodtat's instructions for Option 1, plopped the 0P6BIMG.zip file on my SD card, and let the phone do the rest.
3. Installed a custom recovery (the latest version of TWRP - installation instructions are on the linked page)
4. Installed CleanROM via TWRP
5. Enjoyed free tethering
Good luck!

dbrits said:
Like you, my primary reason for installing a custom ROM was to be able to use my phone as a hotspot. (Verizon will have to pry my unlimited data plan from my cold, dead hands.) CleanROM's native tethering app works out of the box, so there's no need to even install a third-part app like FoxFi. Sadly, it appears that the developer is no longer supporting this ROM, but it's suiting my needs for the time being.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Glad I'm not alone! :hifive:
Anyway, I just purchased a used M8 running stock Lollipop last week and here's what I did:
1. Followed the directions here to achieve s-off. (There's nothing in these directions about disabling fastboot.)
2. RUU (because the phone was used and I have no idea what the previous owner did to this thing and I want to start fresh); I followed dodtat's instructions for Option 1, plopped the 0P6BIMG.zip file on my SD card, and let the phone do the rest.
3. Installed a custom recovery (the latest version of TWRP - installation instructions are on the linked page)
4. Installed CleanROM via TWRP
5. Enjoyed free tethering
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! That ought to get me started, I would think.

SadbutTrue999 said:
So the order of operations is:
1) disable fastboot
2) root
3) unlock bootloader
4) go s-off
5) use RUU
?
As far as what i'm looking for... with Lollipop, tethering itself works, but they make you go through the verizon service (whereas past Android versions could be bypassed with some certificate trickery, which is what Foxfi did), and I don't want to pay $30/mo for something i was getting for free the last 3 years. I also want to root the phone for a few other applications.
I'm not sure what 5.1 Roms would support FoxFi on this phone out of the box (i've heard Samsung's Galaxy S6 continues to support foxfi with verizon and Lollipop, but i'm not sure i could use that rom), which is why 4.4.4 might be easier.
Questions:
1) Is the above order right?
2) Can you disable fastboot with Lollipop? I didn't see the option when i tried.. and i'm seeing some places online saying you can't. What then?
3) I downloaded ADB.. how to you get a command prompt up when connected to the one that lets you send commands to it? Seems basic but ADB has a milllion settings.
4) What else am i forgetting?
Just trying to figure out the first steps... its easy for a newbie to get buried in walkthroughs and new terms. Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use tethering for free on lollipop with s-off.
Not sure about foxfi but with the stock Verizon app.

andybones said:
You can use tethering for free on lollipop with s-off.
Not sure about foxfi but with the stock Verizon app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
dbrits said:
Anyway, I just purchased a used M8 running stock Lollipop last week and here's what I did:
1. Followed the directions here to achieve s-off. (There's nothing in these directions about disabling fastboot.)
2. RUU (because the phone was used and I have no idea what the previous owner did to this thing and I want to start fresh); I followed dodtat's instructions for Option 1, plopped the 0P6BIMG.zip file on my SD card, and let the phone do the rest.
3. Installed a custom recovery (the latest version of TWRP - installation instructions are on the linked page)
4. Installed CleanROM via TWRP
5. Enjoyed free tethering
Good luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to be clear... the 3rd step (of 21) in that first link you show is "RUU". Does this mean I should do it twice (and if so.. with different versions?), or will one RUU do it?
Sounds like his method to achieving S-off is just a series of checking the right buttons within a factory reset phone. Is that right?
andybones said:
You can use tethering for free on lollipop with s-off.
Not sure about foxfi but with the stock Verizon app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, really? Interesting. Stock verizon app works fine, only used foxfi because in the past its met my needs.
Quick question... I've downloaded the java developer kit, ADB, and Android Studio. How do I verify they're working when i connect the phone? Is there a way to send a harmless ping/command/etc to the phone to check?

Few more questions regarding the s-off instructions:
1. Just did a factory reset. Also deleted everything on the SD card. Questions
a) Is a straight delete on the sd card ok or do i need to format? IF the latter, what do i format to?
b) How to I check the 'status' of the bootloader? Is that in one of the hard reset/fastboot menus? Or can i just let the thing start up and check it in the system menu somewhere?
2)
And if I do option 1, as you did... its the file here: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=95916177934537709
that i rename 0P6BIMG.zip
right?
3) Both kingroot and TWRP seem like they can be downloaded to the phone after the fact. And both seem fairly straight forward. Do I need to do anything else for them to work?
4) Lastly... I believe i can do this all with the SIM card out? (seems like perhaps that is ideal, actually)

Just followed quite the droid root alice in wonderland rabbit hole...
Found some old S-off procedures but they appear to be defunct, which led me back to the 'sunshine' s-off approach you listed.
I followed the sunshine approach listed (the one here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=61920423&postcount=3652)
and get to:
File Manager App -> Install KingRoot (accept google checking apps)
Open KingRoot - Hit Root (read notes section at this point) and repeat until it says you have it in this app.
Back out of KingRoot, and uninstall the P~~~ whatever app and the KingUser app it installed by dragging from the app drawer into the uninstall icon.
File Manager App -> Install the SuperSU posted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kingroot is installed, but reports "root is not available" (ostensibly because security is still on). So I still don't know how to turn S-oFF. I'm also not sure what the "P~~~~~ whatever" app he refers to is.
Help appreciated Phone not bricked yet

Just to be clear... the 3rd step (of 21) in that first link you show is "RUU". Does this mean I should do it twice (and if so.. with different versions?), or will one RUU do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't RUU twice. I just did a factory reset before following the s-off instructions. You actually have to be s-off before using the specific RUU that I linked to.
Quick question... I've downloaded the java developer kit, ADB, and Android Studio. How do I verify they're working when i connect the phone? Is there a way to send a harmless ping/command/etc to the phone to check?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I googled "android adb" and this was the third link. I'm sure there are some great tutorials here on xda too.
a) Is a straight delete on the sd card ok or do i need to format? IF the latter, what do i format to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SD card should be formatted FAT32.
And if I do option 1, as you did... its the file here: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=95916177934537709 that i rename 0P6BIMG.zip right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, that's the wrong file. Use that standalone zip if you want to RUU, but you have to be s-off before using the standalone zip that dodtat posted.
Kingroot is installed, but reports "root is not available" (ostensibly because security is still on). So I still don't know how to turn S-oFF. I'm also not sure what the "P~~~~~ whatever" app he refers to is.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Keep trying to get root with Kingroot. It will eventually work, but it takes time and patience. And Purity is the name of the app that Kingroot will install after it gains root.

http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=61920423&postcount=3652 - this is the s-off instruction right?
Kingroot is part of those instructions... do I need to root before using sunshine? And is sunshine what finally achieves the s-off?
Will kingroot work prior to achieving s-off? (seems like it would have to given the instructions in the link above.. given enough tries). My first attempt using kingroot said root wasn't available, but the link above suggests I may need to just keep trying / uninstall+reinstall / etc to get it to work.
Thanks again!

Ok... some progress!
After 4 tries, Kingroot finally did its thing and reports I'm rooted.
In the link to achieve S-off, the app Sunshine is mentioned. Just bought a sunshine license for $25... why not.

Or not.
Despite Kingroot saying its rooted and Sunshine initially saying it had gained root and that my phone had passed all the pre-tests, now that i've spent the $25 its saying its "Unable to gain root access to your device. You may need to gain "TEmpRoot" or "PermRoot" through some other means. For HTC devices, unlocking with HTCDev.comand rooting with a custom recovery may work."
Grr. Any ideas?
I have an HTCDev account but when I get to step 5 in the unlocking bootloader process, I haven't been able to get my command propt commands to work. See images below...

By re-rooting with Kingroot Sunshine did its thing... after it finished the app disappeared. When I do a Volume down+power, it does show my software status as "modified", so I guess I'm making progress.
So is now when I put the said 0P6BIMG.zip on the sd card and let the phone find it? And as specific as we can be as to which file this needs to be is appreciated... thanks

lol so I re-rooted (again) and re-downloaded sunishine (because, like i said, after it did its thing it deleted itself), and its confirmed I'm S-Off.
I'm downloading dottat's "DOTTAT_VZWM8_S_OFF_5.0.1_RUU.zip", which is about 1.6GB. This is what I put on the SDcard, rename 0P6BIMG.zip, and 'flash' that right?
Appreciate you bearing with me (though it seems like i'm in a closet talking to myself a bit, which is ok)

Make sure the BIMG.zip is in the root of your sd card (in no folder) then load hboot and it'll detect the .zip and flash from there. Yes.

G900v (OE1) Lollipop Root/Upgrade

Hello,
I see there's been a lot that's happened since I've last been on here and I'd usually follow the guide, but I see it says it's "Outdated" so I want to solicit your advice as to where I should begin. My bank has decided their mobile app will no longer work for Android 5.0 users, so I need to upgrade my phone to at least 6.0, and I figure this is a good time to root it as well (if possible). It's a Verizon phone, but I"m currently in Europe (so no OTA updates are possible, which is probably good from what I can tell on the outdated guide). I've searched youtube and found the following guide, but I have to make sure I have a CID 15 phone vice 11 (I think that's all I need to worry about, but I'm not positive and I can't remember how to figure out which version I have eaither LOL):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HuCHNCbaqc
Do you see any issues with giving that a try, or am I better off just sticking with one of the two Stickie guides at the top of the forum? The issue I see with them is they seem to be more geared towards rooting and don't get into upgrading to a newer version (while maintaining the root). I could be wrong though (or didn't get through the posts far enough to get to that part). Looking forward to hearing your advice....TIA!

As I continue to browse the forum, I came across this one that may already answer my question (doesn't seem "Outdated" eaither.....although I will need to go to that outdated thread to flash to PB1):
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve...ewbies-guide-to-install-pb1-rom-root-t3481826
Unless someone advises otherwise, I think this is the way to go (gets me to marshmellow while maintaining Root, correct?)

As I continue to dig into this thread (https://forum.xda-developers.com/ver...-root-t3481826), it seems to be the most relevant for what I want to do (upgrade to marshmellow while keeping root access). As I go through and try to download everything that's required, I've hit a roadblock with respect to TWRP (specifically, it says to install TWRP 3.0.0 via ODIN, where you have to be sure to install the correct version of TWRP for your device). When I go to the site though, there are only a couple versions for a Galaxy S5, and I don't recognize any of them (Exynos, Neo Exynos, Mini Exynos, Plus, LTE-A, and Qualcom). Can someone point me to one that will work with mine (Verizon, OE1, CID 15)? The first link from a google search brings this up (https://dl.twrp.me/odin/twrp-3.0.0-0-odin.img.html), but it makes no reference to device versions so I'm hesitant to try it..........Or another thought may be that enough updates to TWRP have happened that they have fixed the issue where it didn't recognize SD cards after version 3.0.0, so I can just use Google Play Store to install the latest version and it should work fine.........thoughts? Many thanks!

I seem to keep answering my own questions as I continue to dig and google search. Looking further into each of the S5 TWRP devices, under the Qualcom link it specifically mentions the SM-G900v, so I'm going to go with that one and hope for the best

RetroRider said:
I need to upgrade my phone to at least 6.0, and I figure this is a good time to root it as well (if possible). It's a Verizon phone, but I"m currently in Europe
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Install this app from the Market to learn if your phone can have a rooted 6.0.1.
2. In any case it's possible to flash a "European" firmware to your phone. But the bootloaders and the kernel will remain original.
Schematically, you would need to:
1. Flash a combination rom, root it and install SafeStrap recovery.
2. Flash a desired rom via SafeStrap (system only) and make some tuning from this "recovery" if necessary.
3. Flash the original kernel and bootloaders via SafeStrap or Odin.
P.S. A good bank app will not allow to run it on a rooted phone.

I installed that eMMC app and under "Brick Bug?" it says "NO. Same Chip" - not sure what that means....does it mean it can't have a rooted 6.0.1?

RetroRider said:
I installed that eMMC app and under "Brick Bug?" it says "NO. Same Chip" - not sure what that means....does it mean it can't have a rooted 6.0.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It also says "CID: XX......"
If XX is 15, you can have a rooted 6.0.1.
If XX is 11, you cannot.

RetroRider said:
I installed that eMMC app and under "Brick Bug?" it says "NO. Same Chip" - not sure what that means....does it mean it can't have a rooted 6.0.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bbsc said:
It also says "CID: XX......"
If XX is 15, you can have a rooted 6.0.1.
If XX is 11, you cannot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to clarify with what @bbsc had stated...
CID15 = "Bootloader" CAN be Unlocked
CID11 = "Bootloader" CANNOT be unlocked
BOTH the CID11 and CID15 can be rooted. Identifying the CID# is only used to see if the devices Bootloader can be unlocked.
The following thread is one of a handful of decent ones to help with identifying the CID and the steps to take for both of them. Just be sure to read the OP carefully.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3561529
Good Luck!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UNLESS asked to do so, PLEASE don't PM me regarding support. Sent using The ClaRetoX Forum App on my Enigma Machine {aenigma = Latin for "Riddle" AND Nickname for "My Ex-Wife"}.

Appreciate all the feedback and responses.....I finally cracked it last night. I struggled most of the day working my way through this guide:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve...ewbies-guide-to-install-pb1-rom-root-t3481826
I never could get it to root (I think I came close once, but couldn't repeat it). After a while I figured I'd look and see if there were other guides and I came upon this one:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/ve.../testers-required-easier-root-method-t3561529
This was much easier and quicker and I rooted/upgraded on the second attempt (would have on the first attempt had I known I needed to uncheck the reactivation lock ahead of time). Now I need to go back and find the post that has the list of bloatware that is safe to uninstall LOL
Thanks again

updating if rooted

My rooted moto G7 is still on stock android 9, security level 1 October 2019, build PPOS29.114-134-4. My wife has the identical Moto G7 phone, but unrooted, and I know she has received several OTA system updates since then.
My rooted phone is so far behind in updates because every non-OTA update method I've read about results in losing root. I know that regaining root is a simple thing to the experts but every time *I* attempt to root this (or any other phone) I end up getting into trouble. I don't even remember how rooting was originally done on this phone and obviously I am not doing things correctly.
Could a kind expert please give me step by step instructions suitable for a newbie on how to update the system on this rooted phone and then simply regain root?
My phone has twrp installed and I do have recent nandroid backups. If my memory is correct, I originally used twrp to root this phone but my memory may or may not be correct.
Thank you.
(To explain, the only reason I root this phone is
1) to use Titanium Backup which I've used many times to restore apps
2) for easy nandroid backups in case I mess something up
3) to hopefully install a Google free rom one day. I used lineageos on another phone but understand it still has problems on this phone)

maybeme2 said:
My rooted phone is so far behind in updates because every non-OTA update method I've read about results in losing root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
EVERY update of your firmware requires a new installation of Magisk.
New firmware = new boot.img => Magisk will be deinstalled

Thank you
Actually I cannot get any updates unless I unrooted first. When I tell the phone to look for updates it does and tells me I'm up-to-date. Which I'm obviously not.
So it seems something is preventing update. I assumed it's because I'm rooted. What do I need to do to receive ota updates and after updates how do I regain root?

maybeme2 said:
Thank you
Actually I cannot get any updates unless I unrooted first. When I tell the phone to look for updates it does and tells me I'm up-to-date. Which I'm obviously not.
So it seems something is preventing update. I assumed it's because I'm rooted. What do I need to do to receive ota updates and after updates how do I regain root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have to manually flash the firmware via fastboot. There're a lot of tutorials here in this forum for that.

Do It manually
https://forum.xda-developers.com/moto-g7/how-to/manually-update-g7-using-fastboot-t3917381
Just pay attention to not erase user data and it won't wipe anything

maybeme2 said:
Thank you
Actually I cannot get any updates unless I unrooted first. When I tell the phone to look for updates it does and tells me I'm up-to-date. Which I'm obviously not.
So it seems something is preventing update. I assumed it's because I'm rooted. What do I need to do to receive ota updates and after updates how do I regain root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Theres a magisk module called Safety Net something-another and if you install hat module, reboot, go back to magislk-settings and towards the mid to bottom check the box that says Hide Magisk to protect from various forms of detection
Then you can reboot again or just wait awhile and you should be able to update BUT, as stated above, you'll have to reinstall magisk every update.

Thanks. It is hard to know what to believe anymore. In my searches I also read that accepting ota updates on a rooted Moto G7 will brick the phone.

maybeme2 said:
Thanks. It is hard to know what to believe anymore. In my searches I also read that accepting ota updates on a rooted Moto G7 will brick the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because some people also tell a lot of nonsense!
An ota.zip is a block based update process. You MUST verify the partitions before doing any changes! Otherwise it could lead to a fully damaged device.
"Hide the manager..." Thanks a lot!!
@maybeme2 flash the correct firmware to update your device.

WoKoschekk said:
Because some people also tell a lot of nonsense!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very true. But .....it takes knowledge (which I am slowly acquiring) to tell the difference. And, if the person asking already had enough 'knowledge' to know it is nonsense, they would not need to search for information. A classic Catch-22 dilemma for a newbie. That's why searching for help is so dangerous.
QUOTE=WoKoschekk;82901585]An ota.zip is a block based update process. You MUST verify the partitions before doing any changes! Otherwise it could lead to a fully damaged device.[/QUOTE]
What do you mean by "a block based update process". I think I know, but it is dangerous to guess. If you have the time, could you explain?
Also, what do you mean by "verify the partitions before doing any changes!"? Verify for what? And after verifying the partitions, do what with that knowledge?
These are summary statements. Similar to "you must do the correct thing". It does not tell me what the correct thing is.
What people asking for help need is
1. Click on. ....
2. Copy. .. to. ... because. ..
etc.
3. Be sure to. ....
HTA123's answer was helpful that way.
"There are plenty of tutorials" is not helpful because some of these tutorials are incorrect and will brick your phone.
QUOTE=WoKoschekk;82901585]"Hide the manager..." Thanks a lot!!.[/QUOTE]
What do you mean by ""Hide the manager..."?

maybeme2 said:
What do you mean by "a block based update process". I think I know, but it is dangerous to guess. If you have the time, could you explain?
Also, what do you mean by "verify the partitions before doing any changes!"? Verify for what?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Android uses a ext4 filesystem that allocates storage space in units of "blocks". Your system partition is read only and Android will not change anything on it. So Motorola's developers know the block address of each file. Instead of replacing a updated file they replace an updated block.
But on a modified partition the block addresses may have changed for each file. While an update replaces a block with the correct address, this block could stored incorrect files/data.
block based OTA
To avoid such problems an OTA verifies your whole system. The easiest way to verify a partition is to build hashes/checksums.
Hide Magisk Manager
This option is helpful to hide root for some apps that check your device for root. But it's not for a device update/OTA.

WoKoschekk, that is very informative. Thank you so much! I've learned a lot and it explains a lot of things about ota's, and other things.
Excellent. I will copy and keep in my notes.
Thank you again.

maybeme2 said:
WoKoschekk, that is very informative. Thank you so much! I've learned a lot and it explains a lot of things about ota's, and other things.
Excellent. I will copy and keep in my notes.
Thank you again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Attached you find a system log of a failed OTA update process grabbed from my Moto G6 plus. I know there are more interesting things in life than that. But it shows you what I have explained in my post before.
After trying to verify the partitions it fails due to a mismatched hash and the update process exits with a error (time: 04:34:25, somewhere in the middle of the log).