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TouchWiz 4.3 update - WHY

Okay, we got the 4.3 update we all been waiting for. Now comes the magic question - WHY.
I'm not trying to troll here, I think I have a valid question. It's got features taken out, a lot of stuff is different now, some things work, some things don't. It looks different, but - is it better? I am yet to find what is it that it does better than original 4.1 firmware.
I guess what I'm trying to ask is : "give me a reason not to revert back to where it was"

galets said:
Okay, we got the 4.3 update we all been waiting for. Now comes the magic question - WHY.
I'm not trying to troll here, I think I have a valid question. It's got features taken out, a lot of stuff is different now, some things work, some things don't. It looks different, but - is it better? I am yet to find what is it that it does better than original 4.1 firmware.
I guess what I'm trying to ask is : "give me a reason not to revert back to where it was"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because you can't. Once you take the 4.3 OTA, you're stuck with it.

McDastardly said:
Because you can't. Once you take the 4.3 OTA, you're stuck with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have to say, it was incredibly disappointing that Samsung decided to sneak device lock-down disguised as a software update. Very lame. I was under impression that Samsung does value community building mods for its overpriced phones, understands the value of such community. Apparently, they don't. I agree with someone who said it will be the last Samsung device he purchased, I think it's time for me to join the boycott.
But coming back to the issue at hand: lets imagine I was lucky enough not to trust Samsung to deliver me an update and instead took a hacked one. Is there any reason whatsoever to stay on 4.3? And by that I mean:
- does 4.3 solve some problem in original firmware, that anyone should care about?
- does 4.3 implement some new feature, which was not in original 4.1 firmware that I should be excited about?

galets said:
Okay, we got the 4.3 update we all been waiting for. Now comes the magic question - WHY.
I'm not trying to troll here, I think I have a valid question. It's got features taken out, a lot of stuff is different now, some things work, some things don't. It looks different, but - is it better? I am yet to find what is it that it does better than original 4.1 firmware.
I guess what I'm trying to ask is : "give me a reason not to revert back to where it was"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What features were taken out? Anything that can be replaced with better apps on the market shouldnt count. In my opinion the new stock task manager makes it worth it.
---------- Post added at 01:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:11 PM ----------
Well if I could go back in time I would have just waited for a custom 4.3 tw rom. But at least I don't feel the need to flash a new rom every day now.

ThePagel said:
What features were taken out?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
At this time, my biggest issue is that codes do not work, and i cannot get into hidden menu, so no QPST. I'm on PagePlus, so updating PRL is a manual process, and without putting phone into modem mode I cannot do that.
There are a few other annoying things, such as: can't turn off warning against increasing volume on headphones (i think there's some add-ons which let you do it though)

galets said:
At this time, my biggest issue is that codes do not work, and i cannot get into hidden menu, so no QPST. I'm on PagePlus, so updating PRL is a manual process, and without putting phone into modem mode I cannot do that.
There are a few other annoying things, such as: can't turn off warning against increasing volume on headphones (i think there's some add-ons which let you do it though)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can understand your annoyance with the hidden menu being gone. But that wasn't a "feature" it was a "hidden menu" after all and with root there are ways to get rid of the volume warning. That bugs the crap out of me as well but not to the point to change it yet.... YET!

galets said:
I have to say, it was incredibly disappointing that Samsung decided to sneak device lock-down disguised as a software update. Very lame. I was under impression that Samsung does value community building mods for its overpriced phones, understands the value of such community. Apparently, they don't. I agree with someone who said it will be the last Samsung device he purchased, I think it's time for me to join the boycott.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, Samsung hasn't been overwhelmingly developer friendly for awhile. There's a bit of dislike for them due to Exynos processors.

Additionally, it wasn't that sneaky. The phone was intended to have a locked bootloader from the beginning. It was expected that the update would patch the loophole we found from the leaked aboot step. That's why it was mentioned multiple times to not accept the 4.3 update in case it locked the bootloader.
Samsung hasn't been developer friendly for a long time. Anytime you take an OTA update you can expect it to prevent the use of custom firmware unless a trusted source says it doesn't.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

BadUsername said:
Additionally, it wasn't that sneaky. The phone was intended to have a locked bootloader from the beginning. It was expected that the update would patch the loophole we found from the leaked aboot step.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still maintain it's been sneaky. The boot loader was not patched for a long time, you even get an icon which indicates custom firmware. Many folks understood it as if Samsung quietly endorses modding. The S3 has had a reputation of phone friendly for modders. Many purchased this very model specifically because they intended to mod it. Also don't forget, people look up to tinkerers, so a lot of sales were made because "this guy who knows the phones has samsung"

galets said:
I still maintain it's been sneaky. The boot loader was not patched for a long time, you even get an icon which indicates custom firmware. Many folks understood it as if Samsung quietly endorses modding. The S3 has had a reputation of phone friendly for modders. Many purchased this very model specifically because they intended to mod it. Also don't forget, people look up to tinkerers, so a lot of sales were made because "this guy who knows the phones has samsung"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung isn't as nice as you think. HTC will often allow you to unlock the phone by signing an agreement that you are voiding the warranty. Verizon has had a history of locking bootloaders that other carriers wouldn't.
This bootloader lock is mostly Verizon's implementation anyway. They're the ones who changed the bootloader and patched our loophole. Other devices on the 4.3 OTA update (sprint and T-Mobile) still have unlocked bootloaders.
The custom icon was only stating we had a custom recovery installed. Didn't have anything to do with firmware checking.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

It's hard to call it sneaky if you look back at the thread that was all about waiting for the update it was repeated daily, if not a couple of times a day that if the OTA hits your phone not to take it because it would lock your bootloader. Taking my early upgrade from the Bionic this didn't really surprise me lol. It just clinched it that, I'll maintain my unlocked bootloader and rom away until its time for my next phone, which will be a nexus or amazingly enough a moto if i can let go of my bionic anger lol....

If you purchase a phone to be modded, after you mod it, why would you ever take a manufacturer OTA?
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

galets said:
I have to say, it was incredibly disappointing that Samsung decided to sneak device lock-down disguised as a software update. Very lame. I was under impression that Samsung does value community building mods for its overpriced phones, understands the value of such community. Apparently, they don't. I agree with someone who said it will be the last Samsung device he purchased, I think it's time for me to join the boycott.
But coming back to the issue at hand: lets imagine I was lucky enough not to trust Samsung to deliver me an update and instead took a hacked one. Is there any reason whatsoever to stay on 4.3? And by that I mean:
- does 4.3 solve some problem in original firmware, that anyone should care about?
- does 4.3 implement some new feature, which was not in original 4.1 firmware that I should be excited about?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Samsung probably does value it, however we need to keep in mind it doesn't HAVE to be their fault.
Android is released from Google, then Samsung gets a hold of it, adds their own skin/features/framework, then hands it off to Verizon, where Verizon locks everything down and adds crap things to it. Verizon is EXTREMELY against community mods and such.
We need to figure out if other carriers are having issues with the 4.3 rollout (if it exists) then we might be able to decide who dropped the ball
SGS3 running Android 4.4 KitKang

XdrummerXboy said:
Samsung probably does value it, however we need to keep in mind it doesn't HAVE to be their fault.
Android is released from Google, then Samsung gets a hold of it, adds their own skin/features/framework, then hands it off to Verizon, where Verizon locks everything down and adds crap things to it. Verizon is EXTREMELY against community mods and such.
We need to figure out if other carriers are having issues with the 4.3 rollout (if it exists) then we might be able to decide who dropped the ball
SGS3 running Android 4.4 KitKang
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its samsung. Every version of the s3 is locked on 4.3 the only difference is nobody is complaining about it on the other forums. samsung wants to be able to have there phones used in government agencies and the like so they locked the phone down. I accidentally upgraded and haven't complained once because its not that big of a deal. I am just not buying from samsung from now on (unless they make the tablet that folds into a phone). Someone can correct me if I am wrong but everything I have read says every s3 on 4.3 has been locked down. If you do say I am wrong please give me a link so I can educate myself.

XdrummerXboy said:
Samsung probably does value it, however we need to keep in mind it doesn't HAVE to be their fault.
Android is released from Google, then Samsung gets a hold of it, adds their own skin/features/framework, then hands it off to Verizon, where Verizon locks everything down and adds crap things to it. Verizon is EXTREMELY against community mods and such.
We need to figure out if other carriers are having issues with the 4.3 rollout (if it exists) then we might be able to decide who dropped the ball
SGS3 running Android 4.4 KitKang
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ahhh I forgot about the Knox or whatever they call it. I thought you were able to switch between using it and not though.
But I guess maybe they have to make sure EVERYTHING is secure, then build the "non" secure stuff on top of that framework.
SGS3 running Android 4.4 KitKang

XdrummerXboy said:
Ahhh I forgot about the Knox or whatever they call it. I thought you were able to switch between using it and not though.
But I guess maybe they have to make sure EVERYTHING is secure, then build the "non" secure stuff on top of that framework.
SGS3 running Android 4.4 KitKang
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can still root the OTA by using saferoot. Once rooted, superSU will ask if you want to disable knox. You can then load safestrap which will allow you to load other 4.3 roms and multi-boot your phone etc. Read ALL the threads on saferoot and safestrap before you install them.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app

galets said:
Okay, we got the 4.3 update we all been waiting for. Now comes the magic question - WHY.
I'm not trying to troll here, I think I have a valid question. It's got features taken out, a lot of stuff is different now, some things work, some things don't. It looks different, but - is it better? I am yet to find what is it that it does better than original 4.1 firmware.
I guess what I'm trying to ask is : "give me a reason not to revert back to where it was"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
App access to notifications. That is my killer app for 4.3

Small Update Is Out

It does not change ver. from 4.1.2

what does this updatedo?
What does this update do? Does it affect my root? Thanks!

It is notifying me too. Since I have twrp and root on stock jelly bean, how can I update if helpful, or turn off update notification?
Chad
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using XDA Free mobile app

AFwarbird said:
It is notifying me too. Since I have twrp and root on stock jelly bean, how can I update if helpful, or turn off update notification?
Chad
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I727 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Started getting the notification yesterday, but I'm also on stock Jelly Bean 4.1.2 and TWRP. I was able to stop the notifications by freezing "AT&T Sofware Update" with Titanium Backup, but I'd also like to know if there's anything here worth the trouble of trying to get it installed.

I just had a chat session with a Samsung official, and she said it's news to them. I told her that I am on I727UCMC1, and she said that my device is up to date. The small update AT&T is pushing must be something to do with AT&T.
Unless it updates my camera features, I'm not even bothering with it, and will keep AT&T Update frozen.
I'm pretty sure I'd have to backup everything, revert to stock UCMC1, cross my fingers and toes that it still doesn't brick my phone, and hope it still can be rooted the way I did before.

It sure would be nice if there was some sort of explanation as to what is being updated. I have looked all over and not found anything anywhere else that mentions this update to I727UCNJ1. I got the number from this an at&t website I would post the link but can't. It is only 12mb so probably not worth a bunch of trouble but I wish I knew what it is trying to update.

Paranoid?
Me too. Mine is original stock, but I upgraded the Android OS last year to 4.1.2 via Samsung Kies. However, mine is unlocked, and I can't help but be suspicious that AT&T is "updating" to do something that is to their benefit and not ours (i.e. relocking the phone?, spyware, etc.?), so it would be nice to have some details of what/why this unexpected update, before blindly agreeing to it. So, if anyone know what this update is all about, please share with us. Thanks very much!

My money's on an update that locks the phone down. What else would AT&T possibly do with a three-year-old platform that isn't making them any new money at this point?

I chatted with an AT&T representative yesterday, and all I could get out of her was that the update had to do with new features to the O/S. That's all the information that she could find, and couldn't tell me any specifics about what features were being updated.
I am about to go to an S5 or S5 Active soon, and I might just revert to stock to check it out.
It's pretty fishy though that neither Samsung, or AT&T has, or wants to divulge in any, information on exactly what it's going to do.
---------- Post added at 07:29 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:26 PM ----------
As far as it locking your device back down, I have yet to flash, or install anything that has re-locked my phone. I guess it's possible. The only thing I'm worried about is losing root, and not being able to get it back with the last way that's available.

I see it's now listed on the AT&T eSupport website No details, just "Android OS Enhancements".
I don't have enough posts on this forum to be permitted to publish a link, but you can find it by Googling "AT&T Update to Skyrocket", and the eSupport link should be near the top of the results.

AT&T is taking the same tack as Verizon, and locking everything down. Even the mid to low end phones. So, I wouldn't be surprised if this is a way to lock older phones.
On the other hand, it really may be final bug fixes - a sort of final service pack. I wish I trusted them to give it a try.

I reverted back to stock I727UCMC1 using Odin v1.85, updated OTA to I727UCNJ1, flashed TWRP custom recovery, got root back, but I am not sure if I am still unlocked or not. I tried *#7465625# on the dialer, but the code does nothing.
Anyone know of another code to check the unlock status?

Thanks very much for your feedback. I've always just put a SIM card from another carrier into my phone. Even if it is not an active SIM, your phone should still tell you whether or not it is locked.

24fan4life said:
I reverted back to stock I727UCMC1 using Odin v1.85, updated OTA to I727UCNJ1, flashed TWRP custom recovery, got root back, but I am not sure if I am still unlocked or not. I tried *#7465625# on the dialer, but the code does nothing.
Anyone know of another code to check the unlock status?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
unless u restored a previous efs partition that was locked to a carrier then u will remain unlocked, afaik no one lost their unlocked sim by restoring or flashing any firmwares, to read more about the sim lock or to unlock the sim read this http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2638037
as for firmwares locking down the phone its referring to the way root is acheived not to the sim carrier lock

T.J. Bender said:
My money's on an update that locks the phone down. What else would AT&T possibly do with a three-year-old platform that isn't making them any new money at this point?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i hope you are joking, because if not then then you're insane. no offense intended.

Not so insane, I'm afraid. AT&T has started a war on unlocked bootloaders lately. The CEO has officially come out as saying they don't want unlocked devices on their network, and have followed up by sending out OTA updates that lock down devices. Several devices started out unlocked, like the S2, and became locked by OTA updates. The S3, Note 2, etc.
IOW, I wouldn't put it past them, especially if Samsung wasn't aware of the update. On the flip side, the S2 is no longer even for sale, and I have to wonder how many are left in active service.

Clarification?
lingowistico said:
i hope you are joking, because if not then then you're insane. no offense intended.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, that was very helpful! Seriously though, as a senior member of this forum, perhaps you might have some constructive comments on this subject? After all, we're sitting here with phones (the I-727 SII Skyrocket is an oldie, but goodie!) that are trying to push an unanticipated OTA update on us, in a very suspicious manner. We hope it's just a bug fix, but don't trust the carrier (AT&T) to be doing this, unless they have some ulterior motive. The benefit of your substantial experience would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for any insight you can offer us.
Regards,
Ron M.
jshamlet said:
Not so insane, I'm afraid. AT&T has started a war on unlocked bootloaders lately. The CEO has officially come out as saying they don't want unlocked devices on their network, and have followed up by sending out OTA updates that lock down devices. Several devices started out unlocked, like the S2, and became locked by OTA updates. The S3, Note 2, etc.
IOW, I wouldn't put it past them, especially if Samsung wasn't aware of the update. On the flip side, the S2 is no longer even for sale, and I have to wonder how many are left in active service.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your insight, it was TRULY helpful! As a relative newbie, I just want to clarify our terms. When you use the term "unlocked", I deduce you are referring to a phone that has been rooted and is running a different platform - is that correct? In my case, I am NOT rooted and simply running the original crappy stock platform, but my phone is "unlocked" in the traditional sense, in that I can use it with different sims from different carriers throughout the world, rather than being "locked" to AT&T. So, for those of us who are not as technically advanced, could you please clarify? For me, if this OTA update doesn't prevent me from continuing to use other sims from other carriers, then I don't know what the downside would be, unless they're just adding more spyware and bloatware to their already intrusive system? I look forward to your comments.
Regards,
Ron M.

jshamlet said:
Not so insane, I'm afraid. AT&T has started a war on unlocked bootloaders lately. The CEO has officially come out as saying they don't want unlocked devices on their network, and have followed up by sending out OTA updates that lock down devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought T.J. Bender was talking about simlock since he didn't mention the bootloader. :silly:
At&t sure isn't making life easy for you.. I'd still be proudly rocking a skyrocket too if I didn't lose it :angel:

I only messed with my Skyrocket for an hour or so after accepting the OTA update, before starting up my new S 5 Active.
The only thing that I really noticed, was they took the AT&T phone setup app off of it, since it is no longer in use by AT&T. There may have been more that I didn't notice, but only running it a couple hours, I couldn't tell. I even checked the camera thinking they might have finally snuck some new features into it, but no dice.

lingowistico said:
i hope you are joking, because if not then then you're insane. no offense intended.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How does suggesting that AT&T would lock a bootloader make me insane?
Sent from my totally badass HTC One m8 using Tapatalk

Is anybody close to unlocking the latest bootloaders, or is it unlikely?

I (very) recently got a Verizon Galaxy S6 and (stupidly) allowed the updates to run :silly:. I should have known better, as I went through the unlocking/rooting process with Verizon's S3. I could live with it for a bit if people think it will be unlocked in the near future (I'm on VRU4BOG9), but if there's a reason that it's unlikely that it will ever be unlocked, I can still return it and cancel my plan. I could just change carriers, but it's a little tricky because it involves my wife's phone/line, as well.
Does anyone have any information or opinions regarding this?
Thanks!

I'm with you in the same boat.
It was past the baseband even before i let the updates run.

I doubt there will be anything. This forum is pretty dead. No developers etc. I am going to look into getting a tmobile s6 and see if I can unlock, root and get it working on verizon. I think it can be done I've just not looked into it yet so not for sure.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk

Stagefright might allow root. I'm waiting to see.

redrol said:
Stagefright might allow root. I'm waiting to see.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stagefright doesn't run at root level.

dobbs3x said:
I doubt there will be anything. This forum is pretty dead. No developers etc. I am going to look into getting a tmobile s6 and see if I can unlock, root and get it working on verizon. I think it can be done I've just not looked into it yet so not for sure.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
t-mo has CDMA radio?
or you plan to run LTE only?
i would be interested to find out as well

It's unlikely.. as some of the recent dev posts have made clear samsung is the ultimate anti-developer company... as such most of the dev's that would normally work on this have moved on to other brands. It's also gotten to the point that it's almost impossible to actually unlock.. they almost always work around it rather than unlock it, and there are only so many of these workarounds out there.
It may get rooted again, but it will be very unlikely that the bootloader gets unlocked.. basically our only hope would be a leaked test bootloader thats already unlocked.. But I've only ever heard of this happening once.

Take it back while you can. Had my s6 rooted on 5.0.2 but there was no xposed support or xposed for it. If you enjoy rooting your phone the outlook is not good. Not much going on with this scene. After owning mine for just 2 months I sold mine on eBay and am headed towards a nexus. Not a bad phone but not good for flashing...I will do my research next time before getting a Samsung !

sulpher said:
It's unlikely.. as some of the recent dev posts have made clear samsung is the ultimate anti-developer company....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not Samsung, IT'S Verizon that's locking Us out.

rbeavers said:
It's not Samsung, IT'S Verizon that's locking Us out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's Samsung that lets Verizon lock us out. They let companies throw their logo on it still so...

How about Chainfire
EXPERIMENT: Root without modifying /system (you can search for it here on XDA)
I hope it could actually work soon!

webwarr said:
How about Chainfire
EXPERIMENT: Root without modifying /system (you can search for it here on XDA)
I hope it could actually work soon!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tried it, no go

Got it...
That's sad
Sent from my SM-G920V using XDA Free mobile app

Becoming less and less happy that I bought this phone. Especially on the payment plan. I may have to bite the bullet, pay it off and just sell it for whatever I can get. Sucks. I loved my fascinate, my S3, and my S4. Been using my Moto Maxx 2 more and more lately. THAT'S SAD.
Sent from my XT1565 using Tapatalk

Besides the Nexus what model phones are now dev friendly? I was looking at a G4 but apparently LG is just like Samsung with the nearly uncrackable locked bootloaders now.

s5 just got full bootloader unlock..

Is it Verizon or the Exynos chip that's holding back development on this device? ELI5
Sent from my XT1565 using Tapatalk

It's the customized software that samsung builds for Verizon that limits access to root and bootloader. Without having root privileges, you can not make any system changes let alone access it. The chip has nothing to do with this.

s5 just got bootloader unlock BUT the dev has not said he will release anything. It may never happen on this device. having said that the debloater is the key to a smooth device with good battery. If debloating is all you need, that can be done without root.
After debloating about 150 apps on my s6, I can get days and days on battery with minimal use.

This who ordeal with Samsung screwing us on the S6 is making me want to switch to a Nexus...

S7 bootloader unlock petition

Anybody interested in the bootloader and unlocking it I encourage you to sign this petition. These phones are ours to use how we see fit and the more noise we make the better our chances are. I bought this phone under the assumption that nothing had changed and for Samsung to change their policies without notice isn't acceptable for me and hopefully you as well. Thank you
Petition

Dude, there's honestly no point. Ive been on xda for about 10 years and ive always need to root every single android phone ive owned. Until recently, Samsung started making pretty good android phones starting with the s6 and up. I had no reason to root my s6, note 5, and now no reason to root my s7 edge. Im not saying you should have no need to root yours, i just feel like Samsung and android have come a long way and nowadays rooting serves no purpose;for me at least. Is rooting worth losing Samsung pay or any other security features we need to protect us? Not really. Also, Samsung can change their policies as they please, you still bought their phone. Rooting died a couple years ago, move on. Best of luck with your petition.

No point is simply just not true. I haven't even looked at a Samsung until the S6 last year and I got the M9 instead. Now with HTC dumping boomsound on the M10 I switched after 8 HTC phones. While I agree Samsung has come a long way not only in hardware but software and you can do more things now without root I still miss it a lot. Have this phone a week now, not having root sucks. It's just not the same. While yes you can do quite a bit without it, there is still plenty missing. People saying that root is dead or they don't need it is just denial for the fact that things have got so locked down it's not worth justifying the hassle which might just be true.
Let's say knox was never developed, triangle away still worked so you could also go back to stock and you could flash away with an unlocked bootloader everyone would be singing a totally different tune and you guys would be rooted. Now that Samsung has total control, we have to justify it to ourselves on why it makes sense not to root which frankly right now I think is the case.

kennypow3rs said:
Dude, there's honestly no point. Ive been on xda for about 10 years and ive always need to root every single android phone ive owned. Until recently, Samsung started making pretty good android phones starting with the s6 and up. I had no reason to root my s6, note 5, and now no reason to root my s7 edge. Im not saying you should have no need to root yours, i just feel like Samsung and android have come a long way and nowadays rooting serves no purpose;for me at least. Is rooting worth losing Samsung pay or any other security features we need to protect us? Not really. Also, Samsung can change their policies as they please, you still bought their phone. Rooting died a couple years ago, move on. Best of luck with your petition.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its all good if you have no interest then that's fine but I for one do. I hate touchjiz and the bloatware that is just the tip of the iceberg. Rooting will never die maybe some people don't but most that have rooted will always want it. Thanks for your input though. Without root we really don't have any need for a development section so this forum will likely die. I'm jumping ship to the lg g5 until samsung does something if they ever do.

brendan802 said:
Its all good if you have no interest then that's fine but I for one do. I hate touchjiz and the bloatware that is just the tip of the iceberg. Rooting will never die maybe some people don't but most that have rooted will always want it. Thanks for your input though. Without root we really don't have any need for a development section so this forum will likely die. I'm jumping ship to the lg g5 until samsung does something if they ever do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally have no problem with Samsung locking things down. In fact for the general pop it will be great, but since we live in the free world it Samsung should still allow the option of choice. As long as they have the proper disclaimer in place that warns of consequences the one can make the decision. I think the big reason for the locked bootloader has to do with carriers leasing the phones. Since rooting breaks the pay app and can't reversed. Just imagine if you got a previous leased phone and the pay app doesn't work. What samsung should do is allow for a complete reset factory action including knox. Maybe not have it available to the general public but maybe the carriers or somewhere higher up. This would give the best of both worlds.

kennypow3rs said:
Dude, there's honestly no point. Ive been on xda for about 10 years and ive always need to root every single android phone ive owned. Until recently, Samsung started making pretty good android phones starting with the s6 and up. I had no reason to root my s6, note 5, and now no reason to root my s7 edge. Im not saying you should have no need to root yours, i just feel like Samsung and android have come a long way and nowadays rooting serves no purpose;for me at least. Is rooting worth losing Samsung pay or any other security features we need to protect us? Not really. Also, Samsung can change their policies as they please, you still bought their phone. Rooting died a couple years ago, move on. Best of luck with your petition.
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Click to collapse
Dude you've been here 5 years. I've been here 7. Neither of which matters. Rooting didn't die any more than rock and roll did when disco came along.
I drive a semi and without root I can't get the headphone, or bluetooth, volumes high enough when running through the trucks stereo. And before you start talking about headphones, those that cover both ears are illegal and i don't like listening through only one ear. So I want root. If you don't that's wonderful for you, but please don't step onto a developers board, claim seniority you just don't have, and try to tell people the board has become meaningless.

DreamingWolf said:
Dude you've been here 5 years. I've been here 7. Neither of which matters. Rooting didn't die any more than rock and roll did when disco came along.
I drive a semi and without root I can't get the headphone, or bluetooth, volumes high enough when running through the trucks stereo. And before you start talking about headphones, those that cover both ears are illegal and i don't like listening through only one ear. So I want root. If you don't that's wonderful for you, but please don't step onto a developers board, claim seniority you just don't have, and try to tell people the board has become meaningless.
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This is my second account ive definitely been here since the palm and original HTC touch days with Windows pocket lol. But to the point, rooting is dead per se, but there's definitely less of a reason to do so these days. Touch wiz is damn near perfect. Even for those thay dont like it can slap a launcher on it. I see no purpose to root, i can block ads with ad guard. Also stock android doesnt have all the bells and whistles either so id rsther stay stock. Again, i know others may need it, but i was simply saying its pointless thess days. I still come here for many other things, just not to root.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

kennypow3rs said:
This is my second account ive definitely been here since the palm and original HTC touch days with Windows pocket lol.
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I stand corrected.
kennypow3rs said:
Again, i know others may need it, but i was simply saying its pointless these days.
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Are not 'needed' and 'pointless' antonyms? You just refuted your own statement.
And I don't use stock android. I use rooted and modded versions of Sprint's base ROM. The only stock versions I have truly liked and used are by Temesek, and those tend to be few and far between on Sprint variants.
I also never use Touchwiz. It's been NovaLauncher for years now for me. And I just prefer all the little conveniences and tweaks that you can make with root. Like an extended power menu without having to add more apps from Google Play. And several diagnostic tools I use to troubleshoot when I have a weak or slow signal where I shouldn't.
So I'm really happy that your content to live with what Samsung and Sprint deign to allow you, I'm not. And since these boards seem to be doing just fine, I would guess that there are enough people who agree with me to make your opinion not nearly as wide spread as you believe it to be.
And one final question, if you believe rooting is pointless and dead, why are you still on these boards?

DreamingWolf said:
I stand corrected.
Are not 'needed' and 'pointless' antonyms? You just refuted your own statement.
And I don't use stock android. I use rooted and modded versions of Sprint's base ROM. The only stock versions I have truly liked and used are by Temesek, and those tend to be few and far between on Sprint variants.
I also never use Touchwiz. It's been NovaLauncher for years now for me. And I just prefer all the little conveniences and tweaks that you can make with root. Like an extended power menu without having to add more apps from Google Play. And several diagnostic tools I use to troubleshoot when I have a weak or slow signal where I shouldn't.
So I'm really happy that your content to live with what Samsung and Sprint deign to allow you, I'm not. And since these boards seem to be doing just fine, I would guess that there are enough people who agree with me to make your opinion not nearly as wide spread as you believe it to be.
And one final question, if you believe rooting is pointless and dead, why are you still on these boards?
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Click to collapse
I still come here for other things, like questions i may have, apps, reviews, and ive been here for so long i still help others when i can. Its still a community i am apart of regardless if i root or not.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

Root or not to root is a matter of opinion, I think it is far from dead or useless imo.
I have rooted every phone I have ever had that it was capable on within 24 hours of getting the phone just because I want to put on the phone what I want not what Samsung thinks I want.
I don't fit well with the masses and rooting let's me be that way with my phone....
That said this has been seen before on other devices and has been worked around by the amazing devs on this sight.
Sent from my SM-G900P using Tapatalk

Rooting will never die unless the manufacturers kill it. It has too much of a following with people that love to root and need to root. So yes no root is a huge deal for me I'm coming from a Nexus 6 where I had multirom and weekly updates. The phone never gets boring when it is unleashed and rootable. I have had the Edge for about a week and I'm already bored/frustrated with it. I'm going to the Sprint store today to try and return it. My Nexus 6 flies compared to the S7 Edge even though its specs are way better. Hardware can only get you so far the software is what makes the phone fly. The stock S7 Edge has so much BS bloatware and unneeded stuff that slows it down significantly. Give me the international one and maybe I would keep it. Also, the Samsung pay is a joke for me because it doesn't support any of my banks or cards. I will be preordering the LG G5 or waiting for the next Nexus.

We should have the option.
I don't really need to root today, because I primarily use the phone for business and I don't want to have it down because I change my mind on which ROM to pick every 6 hours.
But I want the option to get rid of the ****, yes, ****, they put on this phone. Why they load junk I can't get rid of is beyond me.
If we can't control the phone, I'll have to jump off the Samsung bandwagon next year...no matter how good they make it.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

brendan802 said:
Anybody interested in the bootloader and unlocking it I encourage you to sign this petition. These phones are ours to use how we see fit and the more noise we make the better our chances are. I bought this phone under the assumption that nothing had changed and for Samsung to change their policies without notice isn't acceptable for me and hopefully you as well. Thank you
Petition
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Click to collapse
Is there one for Sprint? This petition does not go to them at all.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

So I've had this thought about this locked bootloader problem. I am not sure if this is a viable solution or whether it would even work. I was thinking that our European brethren has an unlocked bootloader. Would there be a way to Odin their bootloader on our devicesor would the fact that they have a different processor be a problem. Because in theory if we had a Samsung sign Odin file of with an unlocked bootloader we should be able to Odin and have a unlocked bootloader, no? Or is there more to it than that?

El.Dante565 said:
So I've had this thought about this locked bootloader problem. I am not sure if this is a viable solution or whether it would even work. I was thinking that our European brethren has an unlocked bootloader. Would there be a way to Odin their bootloader on our devicesor would the fact that they have a different processor be a problem. Because in theory if we had a Samsung sign Odin file of with an unlocked bootloader we should be able to Odin and have a unlocked bootloader, no? Or is there more to it than that?
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Click to collapse
Good question. But no, it would not work. Not even because it's a different processor, which that is part. But say if T Mobile got an unlocked bootloader, it would not work for Sprint. Nor would it necessarily help to know how it happened and use it as a road map to unlock another carrier's bl.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

not so fast
mkeller96 said:
Rooting will never die unless the manufacturers kill it. It has too much of a following with people that love to root and need to root. So yes no root is a huge deal for me I'm coming from a Nexus 6 where I had multirom and weekly updates. The phone never gets boring when it is unleashed and rootable. I have had the Edge for about a week and I'm already bored/frustrated with it. I'm going to the Sprint store today to try and return it. My Nexus 6 flies compared to the S7 Edge even though its specs are way better. Hardware can only get you so far the software is what makes the phone fly. The stock S7 Edge has so much BS bloatware and unneeded stuff that slows it down significantly. Give me the international one and maybe I would keep it. Also, the Samsung pay is a joke for me because it doesn't support any of my banks or cards. I will be preordering the LG G5 or waiting for the next Nexus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would suggest waiting to see if the bootloader is locked down on the lg g5 before ordering. I was not planning to root my s7e, but I must say I was curious to see what this powerhouse was capable of if unleashed from touchwiz,sadly I will never know.:crying:

Anyone else receive an OTA update this morning from Sprint? Took about 15 minutes to download and install.
I'm now showing software version G935PVPU2APC5.

runner77 said:
Anyone else receive an OTA update this morning from Sprint? Took about 15 minutes to download and install.
I'm now showing software version G935PVPU2APC5.
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Click to collapse
I have Ota's stopped, but i haveapb5.
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

Root
I have a sneaky suspicion that the Sprint S7 & S7 Edge will end up just like the
ATT Note 5 and S6 Edge/Edge+ phones and will NEVER have root. LOL
I would strongly advice & suggest NOT to get rid of your current rooted phones at least not yet!!!
(unless you buy a different brand which can be rooted)
Have a great day!

El.Dante565 said:
So I've had this thought about this locked bootloader problem. I am not sure if this is a viable solution or whether it would even work. I was thinking that our European brethren has an unlocked bootloader. Would there be a way to Odin their bootloader on our devicesor would the fact that they have a different processor be a problem. Because in theory if we had a Samsung sign Odin file of with an unlocked bootloader we should be able to Odin and have a unlocked bootloader, no? Or is there more to it than that?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the firmware for the Chinese model s7 edge it is the closest match to ours and the firmware will not load in odin. It checks against the model and csc codes so we couldn't even cross flash with t-mobiles firmware. I have the bootloader posted over in t-mobile forums and a few people are poking around to see what can be done. Unfortunately bootloader and hardware hacks are nothing I have ever done before.

can anyone point me in the direction of a thread/page with a correct root?

I've been going through many pages and tried a few different ways of rooting my SM-N920V, but every page I go to tells me something a little different and it doesn't work. I've had to recover my phone a few times, but still can't get it rooted.
Specs:
SM-N920V
6.0.1
Originally I wanted to install Copperhead OS or Lineage, but from what I read, there's no way of installing either on my Verizon Note 5.
If anyone here has a way of installing Copperhead or any other privacy centric android build, please let me know.
Thanks! :highfive:

There isn't one...

Icetech3 said:
There isn't one...
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as in its not possible?
curious as to why.
also, any suggestions you can give me to get my phone more private/un-googly?

Lakeesheontray said:
as in its not possible?
curious as to why.
also, any suggestions you can give me to get my phone more private/un-googly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Verizon locked the bootloader so well that no one has been able to crack it on this phone and i don't believe anyone is even working on it anymore. Which means no real roms, no root...

Don't care if it works as a phone.
Icetech3 said:
Verizon locked the bootloader so well that no one has been able to crack it on this phone and i don't believe anyone is even working on it anymore. Which means no real roms, no root...
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Click to collapse
I have retired my Note 5 and currently have a Note 8. Since the device can be used for a whole lot more than a phone, is it possible to modify (root...whatever) the device considering that I don't care about tripping Knox (spelling?) or ever plan using it as a phone on VZW (or any other carrier, for that matter)? Right now it is sitting in a drawer and it isn't worth enough for me to sell it.
Thanks, Jack

jaxmaxinc said:
I have retired my Note 5 and currently have a Note 8. Since the device can be used for a whole lot more than a phone, is it possible to modify (root...whatever) the device considering that I don't care about tripping Knox (spelling?) or ever plan using it as a phone on VZW (or any other carrier, for that matter)? Right now it is sitting in a drawer and it isn't worth enough for me to sell it.
Thanks, Jack
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Click to collapse
Yeah, i'm too cheap to buy a new phone.. i use ting as my carrier, in my area i can use Sprint or T-Mobile towers.. my house gets ZERO signal from t-mobile and the verizon phone won't connect to sprint towers.. i hate it.. just *****ing, i'm gonna have to break down and get a different phone