transplant / restore TA partition from the other phone - Xperia Z3 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I am new to dealing with DRM keys and Sony's TA partition and I ask for a little understanding with my dumb questions.
I bought a white Z3 Dual (D6633) for my wife and immediately unlocked bootloader and rooted the phone. She is super happy with it since speed of the phone and camera quality is a big upgrade from HTC Sensations we both own and used until now.
Reading all this stuff about camera issues after unlocking bootloader + other things that stop working makes me really concerned that I have inadvertently and significantly crippled her phone... On the other hand having a root is absolutely critical for me and so far all phones in our household ended up with custom ROM eventually since manufacturers don't support phones with the new software forewer.
To be honest, I think I've missed saving TA partition option completely while following root guide at http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/development/root-stock-kernel-twrp-v01-test-28-09-t2889794 and I've began to wonder if it would be possible to transplant DRM keys from other Z3 with locked bootloader? I am assuming that each phone has an unique set of keys but if I were to move them from one device to a second identical one and therefore there would be no two phones using same keys, would it work or are they locked to the specific IMEI? Although Z3 Dual has 2 IMEIs and only one was asked for while unlocking bootloader.
What I plan to do is to get a second Z3 Dual for myself now but with copper finish and transplant ALL software to my wife's phone. I am quite sure that she will be fine with stock ROM forever but I tend to mess with hardware I own a lot and reflash ROMs very often and I am willing to give up a little bit for these reasons, although while learning how much one needs to give up with Sony, essentially significantly crippling the phone in the process I begin to question if I should give Sony any more of my money...
I am really hoping that some developer will be able to create a ROM restoring most of those lost features in the process.

czguy said:
I am new to dealing with DRM keys and Sony's TA partition and I ask for a little understanding with my dumb questions.
I bought a white Z3 Dual (D6633) for my wife and immediately unlocked bootloader and rooted the phone. She is super happy with it since speed of the phone and camera quality is a big upgrade from HTC Sensations we both own and used until now.
Reading all this stuff about camera issues after unlocking bootloader + other things that stop working makes me really concerned that I have inadvertently and significantly crippled her phone... On the other hand having a root is absolutely critical for me and so far all phones in our household ended up with custom ROM eventually since manufacturers don't support phones with the new software forewer.
To be honest, I think I've missed saving TA partition option completely while following root guide at http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/development/root-stock-kernel-twrp-v01-test-28-09-t2889794 and I've began to wonder if it would be possible to transplant DRM keys from other Z3 with locked bootloader? I am assuming that each phone has an unique set of keys but if I were to move them from one device to a second identical one and therefore there would be no two phones using same keys, would it work or are they locked to the specific IMEI? Although Z3 Dual has 2 IMEIs and only one was asked for while unlocking bootloader.
What I plan to do is to get a second Z3 Dual for myself now but with copper finish and transplant ALL software to my wife's phone. I am quite sure that she will be fine with stock ROM forever but I tend to mess with hardware I own a lot and reflash ROMs very often and I am willing to give up a little bit for these reasons, although while learning how much one needs to give up with Sony, essentially significantly crippling the phone in the process I begin to question if I should give Sony any more of my money...
I am really hoping that some developer will be able to create a ROM restoring most of those lost features in the process.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have read enough, you will know that taking other's TA to restore will result a HARD BRICK of your wife's phone.
Anyhow, I am also interested to know if there's another way out to restore those lost functions. Do update if you found any alternative method

The best thing you can do now is to give her your Z3 and take hers instead. She might not be happy when she finds out you accidentally crippled her phone.

There is no way, and there will not be way to restore DRM keys which you didn't backup.
Even if you send it to Sony.
We had fight with this since xperia arc (me personal) and without hope.
Just give up, change your new phone with her and learn something from this.
Wait couple of months for proper root.
Sent from my C6903 using XDA Free mobile app

I may give up on Sony
Well, it seems that there is nothing I can do now. As I've mentioned I've never dealt with DRM (I get clean content only - years of ripping CDs/DVDs, etc.) and that's one of the reasons I would never buy Apple products for example.
I don't think my wife will ever realize that she is missing anything because I gave her modified phone already, therefor she has no way to compare and as I've mentioned she is super happy with it as it is.
As far I am concerned, I think I will have to seriously reconsider buying another Sony product ever again. I could not care less about DRM and no access to Sony store, however, inadvertently crippling unrelated functionality by unlocking the phone so I can truly own hardware I've paid for is not acceptable.
As it has been said, it is a lesson for me. It's really disappointing because I have believed that I have finally found a truly flagship product with dual SIM functionality...

Well, I can only point out that Sony do tell you this
http://developer.sonymobile.com/unlockbootloader/unlock-yourboot-loader/
I get that from a first hit of a google search on "Sony unlock bootloader"
I understand your frustration, but I have been with Sony for years and I was aware of this potential problem. If I ever change OEMs I will ensure I treat myself as a noob again and do all the legwork and research I should do before diving in.
I know this does not help you, but I am just trying to get across that the information is out there.

If she doesn't know then what's the issue? Crippling means that the user is hampered by a loss. Her phone isn't crippled by any stretch of the imagination. Now if she tries to use miracast and it doesn't work, then you can say it was crippled, but if she never uses the feature then she's no worse off.
As far as restoring the TA partition, that's null and double null. The keys are encrypted using the hardware of the phone (likely the IMEI) so other signed items will not work. Your best bet is Android L. A completely rewritten Camera stack will be introduced where devs have complete control over the camera's hardware. So some enterprising dev might be able to write a camera app that exceeds the stock camera anyways. As far as anything else, that can be added via opensource alternatives that work fine.
You should be able to return it to the store and swap it for another.

czguy said:
Well, it seems that there is nothing I can do now. As I've mentioned I've never dealt with DRM (I get clean content only - years of ripping CDs/DVDs, etc.) and that's one of the reasons I would never buy Apple products for example.
I don't think my wife will ever realize that she is missing anything because I gave her modified phone already, therefor she has no way to compare and as I've mentioned she is super happy with it as it is.
As far I am concerned, I think I will have to seriously reconsider buying another Sony product ever again. I could not care less about DRM and no access to Sony store, however, inadvertently crippling unrelated functionality by unlocking the phone so I can truly own hardware I've paid for is not acceptable.
As it has been said, it is a lesson for me. It's really disappointing because I have believed that I have finally found a truly flagship product with dual SIM functionality...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not a personal attack but I'm getting a little bit fed up with reading all these posts about how it's Sony's fault that people f****d up. They clearly advise against unlocking and state that features will be lost. Ok they don't list exactly which but you accepted the risk when choosing to unlock.
I have had a Z3 since release day and I haven't unlocked the bootloader because I read up on it and found that the loss of DRM keys breaks too many things. I had no more information available than you so don't blame Sony for your lack of caution.
I always used Nexus devices before so, like you, I normally unlock and root straight away BUT I exercise due diligence when I get a new device and look into any potential problems first.
This is not Sony's fault, it is yours. Chalk it up to experience.
While we're on that subject, you really ought to give your phone (assuming it's still locked) to your wife. Leaving her a device you have degraded on the basis that she probably won't realise is pretty lousy thing to do.

Thank you guys for your responses. I must admit that I have neglected in-depth research about this issue beforehand. I never cared about loosing access to a specific OEM store and giving up guaranty. After years of unlocking phones and messing with custom ROMs I became overconfident and did not consider degrading so much functionality while keeping stock ROM... Obviously putting a custom ROM on it would be an entirely different story.
I guess this thread may serve as cautionary tale for others
In any case, coming from HTC phones where ROM cookers managed to shoehorn Bravia engine and also some Sony audio enhancements in to it, I really have a high hopes that some custom ROM will restore most of the features...

3Shirts said:
While we're on that subject, you really ought to give your phone (assuming it's still locked) to your wife. Leaving her a device you have degraded on the basis that she probably won't realise is pretty lousy thing to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is a bit personal, however, it really depends how you look at it and I don't feel that it was a lousy thing to do. Her having zero technical inclination or understanding and using phone mainly to chat and post some pictures on Facebook, I don't think there was any great harm done. Besides, while wasting too much time with Facebook she has many other exceptional qualities
I am the person who deals with anything electronics related in our home and by messing with phones we own I have managed to extend their functionality far beyond OEMs contribution. And as I have mentioned before, I do hope to continue to do so when Sony stops releasing a new software for this particular model.
This is a definitely a good lesson for me, it was a rush job, I've got her this phone for her birthday and it was delivered the same day I gave it to her. I needed to to obtain the root ASAP as she uses the specific software that does not work without root access.

Yeah, that bit was personal, lol!
I just meant that if you still have a locked one, it would be the chivalrous thing to do to give her that and root it with later when an exploit is found that doesn't kill the low light camera performance. If she's happy though, no harm down I suppose.

3Shirts said:
Yeah, that bit was personal, lol!
I just meant that if you still have a locked one, it would be the chivalrous thing to do to give her that and root it with later when an exploit is found that doesn't kill the low light camera performance. If she's happy though, no harm down I suppose.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am currently really reconsidering if I should go with Sony for my personal phone as well. I am still a big HTC believer (not a fan anymore, they sucked for a few years) and I may stick with HTC Sensation for a little bit longer. By flashing a custom ROM on it, it does everything I need it to do and easily compares with features to todays phones while being 3-4 years old model (antique).
There is a bit more being affected by unlocking bootloader than just low light performance.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/z3-compact/general/loss-drm-keys-t2890936
It's more than I would expect: Bravia Engine (X-Reality, Super Vivid), S-Force Front Surround...
What attracted me to Sony was definitely dual SIM capability (there are practically no other phones with this feature that would work with North American frequencies), waterproofing and having quite impressive guts. HTC has some catching up to do still.

Well, there is still hope. On the Z1 focus on the camera was lost when unlocking the boot on 4.2 with no way to get it back if you had not backed up the TA.
However, once 4.3 came along that fixed the issue for people unlocking and for those who had previously unlocked and lost the ability for the camera to focus.
So, in a future update Sony may fix this issue, or they may not. But hope is not lost

gregbradley said:
Well, there is still hope. On the Z1 focus on the camera was lost when unlocking the boot on 4.2 with no way to get it back if you had not backed up the TA.
However, once 4.3 came along that fixed the issue for people unlocking and for those who had previously unlocked and lost the ability for the camera to focus.
So, in a future update Sony may fix this issue, or they may not. But hope is not lost
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was an actual bug though, so they fixed it. This is due to loss of DRM keys so is by design. They might do something but it's unlikely, the DRM keys are there to protect their algorithms

3Shirts said:
That was an actual bug though, so they fixed it. This is due to loss of DRM keys so is by design. They might do something but it's unlikely, the DRM keys are there to protect their algorithms
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Still weird if you ask me, one reason I am in trouble is because I have never experienced and never expected reduced functionality with other OEMs.
If you unlock HTC you loose hardly anything except guaranty...

Related

So what is lost when unlocking the bootloader?

On Sonys page for unlocking the BL there is the section:
"Certain pre-loaded content on your device may also be inaccessible due to the removal of DRM security keys. For high-end devices running recent software versions, for instance Xperia Z3, the removal of DRM security keys may affect advanced camera functionality. For example, noise reduction algorithms might be removed, and performance when taking photos in low-light conditions might be affected. The secure user data partition may also become inaccessible, and you will not be able to get any more official software upgrades if you unlock the boot loader."
I think it is very vague with to much "may" and "might" for my taste. So you brave souls who have unlocked, what have you noticed?
Sent from my D6603 using Tapatalk
All you're going to get is opinion because that's all anyone can give you to be honest.
Biggest one i'd worry about is warranty.
I've come to the conclusion the phone isn't good enough stock to worry about losing features but when I sell it shortly i'll want warranty.
Also, there's no ROM's and the benefits of rooting with no prospect of ROM's in my book isn't worth the hassle.

[Q] Rooting or not the Z5

Hi folks,
I've been reading a lot about rooting android phones and now that I have a Z5 Dual, I would like help to define if it is pertinent or not to root my Z5.
Context: I haven't bought mine through a carrier, I do not have bloatware (but Sony's).
And with recent Android releases and the M forthcoming, why should I be rooting my Z5.
I've seen posts here about people doing so with their Z5. I would like to know why also.
Is looking to use orbot and orbweb for increased anonymity a sufficient motivation?
Thanks for your advices.
Eric
The only way to root the device -as of today- is to open the unlocked bootloader of your device. This means losing permanently your DRM Keys which reduces photograph quality and access to PlayStation services (PSN app, Remote Play, among others).
If you plan on reselling your Z5 for maximum profit, losing your DRM keys will significantly lower the value of your device.
I would recommend remaining unrooted for a couple of months and wait for more refined rooting methods to emerge.
Thanks for this answer, it gives me a good "cons" - as of today - like you say.
But considering that one day a proper rooting method is found, what would be the "pros" of rooting, regarding all the options already in stock android.
What would I be getting more ?
Have a good day
Eric
Nothing if you don't what to use root access for, I would say it's for more advanced users that really want to maximise their device's potential and customise it to their likes
Lambo16 said:
Nothing if you don't what to use root access for, I would say it's for more advanced users that really want to maximise their device's potential and customise it to their likes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you.
I understand your answer and it does make sense. I won't consider myself as an advanced user indeed, but I would like to know what I would have access to doing so.
I am interested in diving into rooting and as my readings went I understand that I can (most of the time) increase the efficency of the phone and this is what I am looking for. (i.e battery usage, reception, etc...).
However I am also interested in more secure ways to communicate and is rooting an answer to that ? I am curious.
Thanks.
EricLeRouge said:
Thank you.
I understand your answer and it does make sense. I won't consider myself as an advanced user indeed, but I would like to know what I would have access to doing so.
I am interested in diving into rooting and as my readings went I understand that I can (most of the time) increase the efficency of the phone and this is what I am looking for. (i.e battery usage, reception, etc...).
However I am also interested in more secure ways to communicate and is rooting an answer to that ? I am curious.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean more secure ways to communicate? And as another user said rooting is not worth it at the moment as you loose DRM key. I would wait for a better root exploit and also if I were you I would also wait for your device's warranty to run out.
At this point, there is not much I would root my device for apart from trying to get extra battery life. I used to have a rooted Xperia Z1 mainly so I could over clock it and install camera mods, which I don't need anymore.
tl;dr I would wait till your warranty runs out (1 year for me) and wait for a better root exploit.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
dont do it. it will void warranty... And stock is not bad i guess.
Eventually you'll be able to root with no consequences; DRM keys will be left untouched and dependant apps will perform as always. Just not yet.
Regarding the abstract benefits of rooting the Z5? Better control of OS components and a general feeling of self realization.
Specifically, after rooting, you could install the xposed framework and tinker with every minutia imaginable. My Z3 lasts 3 days with no charge. While I can barely make it through the day with my Z5. To paraphrase The Martian, I'm gonna science the **** out of it.
Sent from my SGP611 using Tapatalk
Hobbes2099 said:
Eventually you'll be able to root with no consequences; DRM keys will be left untouched and dependant apps will perform as always. Just not yet.
Regarding the abstract benefits of rooting the Z5? Better control of OS components and a general feeling of self realization.
Specifically, after rooting, you could install the xposed framework and tinker with every minutia imaginable. My Z3 lasts 3 days with no charge. While I can barely make it through the day with my Z5. To paraphrase The Martian, I'm gonna science the **** out of it.
Sent from my SGP611 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did this happen for the Z3?
I'm about to upgrade from a Nexus 5, I've always rooted my phones, ran a stock rom and then used xposed to customise the look.
I'm hoping I can eventually do this with the Z5, but I guess its a waiting game, will just have to get used to non root
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Hobbes2099 said:
Eventually you'll be able to root with no consequences; DRM keys will be left untouched and dependant apps will perform as always. Just not yet.
Regarding the abstract benefits of rooting the Z5? Better control of OS components and a general feeling of self realization.
Specifically, after rooting, you could install the xposed framework and tinker with every minutia imaginable. My Z3 lasts 3 days with no charge. While I can barely make it through the day with my Z5. To paraphrase The Martian, I'm gonna science the **** out of it.
Sent from my SGP611 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your answer, it gives much more visibility on what I should be able to tinker with after root - when available in a proper form.
As for Lambo16, I was reading about being able to get more security after rooting as you get more control over kernel and so. Then I was wonderring how much of a difference it would do with actual android stock rom.
EricLeRouge said:
As for Lambo16, I was reading about being able to get more security after rooting as you get more control over kernel and so. Then I was wonderring how much of a difference it would do with actual android stock rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You still need to know what to do. I wouldn't know how to change any of that stuff.
I will probably root my device as soon as I loose warranty and when there is a better exploit.
Sent from my E6653 using Tapatalk
mrbubba999 said:
Did this happen for the Z3?
I'm about to upgrade from a Nexus 5, I've always rooted my phones, ran a stock rom and then used xposed to customise the look.
I'm hoping I can eventually do this with the Z5, but I guess its a waiting game, will just have to get used to non root
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Eventually it did. Rooting for locked bootloader was available for the Z3 by the time I got my Z3. I was able to get my Z5 much earlier this time.
Through a combination of Prime Launcher and disabling specific apps and disabling app notifications, I was was able to mask bloat ware (Xperia care, Xperia lounge, what's new, others).
Unfortunately, this superficial tweaking kept the battery untouched. So I wait. Meanwhile, I enjoy my Sony Xperia Z3, rooted, hibernated and xposed.
Sent from my D6603 using Tapatalk

Is S7 worth buying?

Seems like every phone has problems and Android itself has endless problems. The Nexus 6P has an LTE bug where you can't receive calls and it hasn't been fixed in months. The OnePlus forums are full of people hating their phones and the latest OTA for Marshmallow bricks some of their phones. I don't know what to buy. There are lots of complaints about the S7 here also. I am coming from BlackBerry and was totally satisfied but there is no way to live in the modern world without an Android phone or iPhone it seems.
Is the S7 still worth buying, all else considered equal?
I guess main problem is Android 6.
Further, you have to worry about Samsung knox, locked bootloader, etc. when you want to root.
But, the device itself is great. Just use another launcher and you will be happy (at least, I am... except for worrying that root may be gone due to updates on day)
Oh, also, I disabled all updates, so no security updates aer installed. That might be a problem too...
I am not sure I want to root. This will be my first Android phone. I need it for work and travelling and it has to work. I know the device itself is great and I really want one. I just don't know if I missed something since now that the phone has been out for a while people are complaining as much about this phone as every other phone
I don't know anything about launchers or Android or anything. How can I get started learning after I buy a phone? Thank you.
midnightrider said:
I am not sure I want to root. This will be my first Android phone. I need it for work and travelling and it has to work. I know the device itself is great and I really want one. I just don't know if I missed something since now that the phone has been out for a while people are complaining as much about this phone as every other phone
I don't know anything about launchers or Android or anything. How can I get started learning after I buy a phone? Thank you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you don't know anything about root, android, whatsoever, you won't have to worry. Just buy the thing and it'll work. That's enough for the average crowd. The non average are reading/posting on xda They want to know the ins and outs of their device. They want control of their device without being restricted by anything or anyone.
Bright.Light said:
If you don't know anything about root, android, whatsoever, you won't have to worry. Just buy the thing and it'll work. That's enough for the average crowd. The non average are reading/posting on xda They want to know the ins and outs of their device. They want control of their device without being restricted by anything or anyone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I respect that completely. I am a developer and I have played around with phones in the old days, had a hacked Nokia with custom startup etc. As far as this device goes at this point I am too busy with other things and don't expect to play around with it. There is only so much time in a day!
I know you guys are the experts which is why I am asking. As far as Android itself goes, I hate it. It has a worse security track record than Windows and the quality is worse too! They just found the whole disk encryption with Qualcomm chips is broken[1][2][3]. It's one gigantic embarassment after the next with Android.
I want something that's going to work as well as possible given the crappy software environment it has to work with. If it wasn't for you brave guys breaking your phones the rest of us wouldn't have access to anything nearly as good as we have now! Thanks!
[1] https://bits-please.blogspot.com/2016/06/extracting-qualcomms-keymaster-keys.html
[2] http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-crack-android-encryption-on-millions-of-smartphones/
[3] https://lwn.net/Articles/693115/
Always remember people never go online to write compliments. I personally love this phone. There is also a google+ community where you will get some honest feedback. Most people in that community will be honest about their experience as well as here.
Sent from my SM-G930F using XDA-Developers mobile app
midnightrider said:
Oh I respect that completely. I am a developer and I have played around with phones in the old days, had a hacked Nokia with custom startup etc. As far as this device goes at this point I am too busy with other things and don't expect to play around with it. There is only so much time in a day!
I know you guys are the experts which is why I am asking. As far as Android itself goes, I hate it. It has a worse security track record than Windows and the quality is worse too! They just found the whole disk encryption with Qualcomm chips is broken[1][2][3]. It's one gigantic embarassment after the next with Android.
I want something that's going to work as well as possible given the crappy software environment it has to work with. If it wasn't for you brave guys breaking your phones the rest of us wouldn't have access to anything nearly as good as we have now! Thanks!
[1] https://bits-please.blogspot.com/2016/06/extracting-qualcomms-keymaster-keys.html
[2] http://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-crack-android-encryption-on-millions-of-smartphones/
[3] https://lwn.net/Articles/693115/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exploits are found all the time on ios,Windows and a android, basically if it's a system built by humans there's almost always going to be some type of flaw somewhere. As much as this is pretty big one the chances of it actually affecting you are probably nil. I would get the device and enjoy it for what it is, rather than worrying over this and that.
Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk
seedubya said:
Always remember people never go online to write compliments.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think that's true. There are more fanboys for Samsung phones than people willing to bash something they spent 800 bucks on.
I saw some scary threads here like the one on broken rear camera lenses. The replacements are on ebay by the millions already. I don't understand how companies can put out faulty products and charge so much for them. But silly me, I ordered one yesterday. It hasn't shipped yet. But I'll be unhappy if it has problems. It's supposed to be the best you can get. What else is there?
Hopefully not a complete threadjack
So I am currently running a rooted S4 and am thinking it's time to upgrade. And don't hate me for asking this: Now that we have root available for the S7, is this the phone to get or should I hold out to see what the next Nexus phone actually is? Would like to keep the SD card port that doesn't seem to appear in any of the nexus rumors. Am worried that now the root method is out, it'll be patched before the Nexus release and my choice becomes moot. Thanks.
Im_Gumby said:
So I am currently running a rooted S4 and am thinking it's time to upgrade. And don't hate me for asking this: Now that we have root available for the S7, is this the phone to get or should I hold out to see what the next Nexus phone actually is? Would like to keep the SD card port that doesn't seem to appear in any of the nexus rumors. Am worried that now the root method is out, it'll be patched before the Nexus release and my choice becomes moot. Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I could choose, then I would get a device with 128Gb memory without SD card.
Why? Because google f*cked up Android with SD cards. They just don't get it that we want control over the media on the SD card!
But, I like this S7 because of the camera, display and weather proof (let's try to be careful and don't drop the phone in the toilet please...)

Is the CAT S60 (Snapdragon 617) Rootable?

Morning all,
I have recently received my CAT S60 and I have to say, I am extremely pleased with the device out of the box. It is solid, extremely well built, battery life is amazing and camera quality is far better than the reviews led me to believe. Call quality is also the best I have ever had on any handset.
Unfortunately, I have never before owned a device without root. I have rooted most of my phones + installed a custom rom within a couple of days of opening the box. Sadly, this time round I've bought a less-popular device which is quite new and there is no existing support.
I am able to do most of the root-requiring functions with this phone (flashlight via button from locked, skip tracks with volume etc) using software workarounds, but I am already butting up against things that are pissing me off because I don't have system access, and I am so used to having it.
I've read horror stories about the lockdown function Qualcomm have applied to the 617 chips, but I now see that some phones with this chip have already been rooted (Motorola) so I am wondering, what are the chances that I will see root or a root exploit for this phone in the near future?
I'm not sure that I would sell the device over not being able to gain root, but it is really really annoying me.
I would be interested too. I couldnt even figure out how to set the s60 to downloadmode (If there is such a mode at all) to flash a custom recovery like twrp. Recoverymode is the usual volume up before poweron.
heinzherbert said:
I would be interested too. I couldnt even figure out how to set the s60 to downloadmode (If there is such a mode at all) to flash a custom recovery like twrp. Recoverymode is the usual volume up before poweron.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Recovery mode is volume up and power button together for 3 to 4 seconds
There is a switch in developer options to allow bootloader to be unlocked. Maybe this, combined with factory recovery menu will set us free? Flash a modified factory rom with root enabled? The stock ROM is very clean.
bandario said:
There is a switch in developer options to allow bootloader to be unlocked. Maybe this, combined with factory recovery menu will set us free? Flash a modified factory rom with root enabled? The stock ROM is very clean.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is an option to unlock bootloader. It's called OEM unlocking
So, flicking this switch should unlock the bootloader???
That gives me a bit of hope for some development on this handset. None of the previous cat phones have seen any real development.
bandario said:
So, flicking this switch should unlock the bootloader???
That gives me a bit of hope for some development on this handset. None of the previous cat phones have seen any real development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To be honest flicking that switch does nothing for me. I am unsure how to unlock the bootloader
On S60 bootloader is locked.
No fastboot, but you will be able to select recovery mode.
bump. I'd like to see this phone rooted.
Any progress on this or has anyone tried yet?
My SONY Z1C died on me the other day and I'd need to know if there's at least a chance to root this one.
I'm considering getting the S60 but only if I'm able to root it. An unrooted phone is barely usable to me...
Greetz and thanks in advance,
Unr3aL67
haven't tried rooting mine yet. Not felt the need to yet TBH
Mine is working pretty good without root. Only reason I'd want root honestly is to make backups, and perhaps uninstall a couple apps, but the bloatware is minimal.
Sent from my S60 using Tapatalk
Since the original question was "Is this rootable?" and lately answers have come in the form of "I haven't tried rooting mine" .... which doesn't seem much like an answer at all, to be honest .... I want to join the OP in asking this question. For those of us who have grown accustomed to the freedom and flexibility of having root access to our devices, it would be really nice to know (before making a decision to purchase) whether it is possible to obtain root on the CAT S60.
Does anyone know where to get a zip of the ROM?
After the Arstechnica review this may be my next phone. However, I really require a way to root it so that I can use iptables.
Anyone had any luck?
In response to your query we regret to inform you that we do not offer any assistance or tools to root our devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried contacting support about help to root, got the above back. It's a work phone so maybe it's better that I don't mess with it.
If anyone is going to root or make a custom recovery, it'll need to be without any support from the manufacturer. I mostly miss Xposed Framework for adblocking, less frequent notifications and the ability to longpress the back key to enable/disable screen rotation, the ROM itself is 99% "stock" otherwise and I have no complaints on that front.
In response to your query we regret to inform you that we do not offer any assistance or tools to root our devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is, of course, their right, and buyer beware if you wanted a rootable phone. Still, I can't keep from being annoyed at this attitude; if I'm paying them good money for my devices, I want the freedom to do with it everything that I want, including modifying it and knowingly voiding my warranty, or even breaking it outright, if that's what makes me happy. Especially now that rooting/jailbreaking is a thing. Wanting to keep on controlling and limiting how people are able to use your product after you've sold it to them always sticks in my craw.
I guess I'll be passing on what otherwise looks like a perfect phone for me, unless some shining hero (or heroine) manages to figure out how to root a CAT S60 anyway, despite what the manufacturer might wish.
Tangib1e said:
This is, of course, their right, and buyer beware if you wanted a rootable phone. Still, I can't keep from being annoyed at this attitude; if I'm paying them good money for my devices, I want the freedom to do with it everything that I want, including modifying it and knowingly voiding my warranty, or even breaking it outright, if that's what makes me happy. Especially now that rooting/jailbreaking is a thing. Wanting to keep on controlling and limiting how people are able to use your product after you've sold it to them always sticks in my craw.
I guess I'll be passing on what otherwise looks like a perfect phone for me, unless some shining hero (or heroine) manages to figure out how to root a CAT S60 anyway, despite what the manufacturer might wish.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is indeed a great phone, but the camera is sub-par. The focus takes an age compared to my Z5 Compact. I would wait for the second-generation version unless you critically need FLIR as a feature.
I've done a bit of poking around. I suspect that the bootloader could be unlocked with the commands "adb reboot bootloader" followed by "fastboot oem unlock-go".
I'm not going to do that at this point because without a custom ROM to flash there is no point in me voiding my warranty, but I believe it should be possible with USB debugging enabled, and the bootloader confirmed as unlockable.
I think this is how root will arrive on this device: by way of modifying a flashable ROM and flashing it to the device using QFIL as you would any other Qualcomm device.
The tools are all there in front of us, we just need someone with the knowledge to create that modified rom file....at this point I can't even find a factory rom to flash.
Given the recent speed and quality enhancements made available through the stock camera app, I also suspect that doing this will send us backwards to a much ****tier camera as has been the case with many sony handsets in the past.
bandario said:
There is a switch in developer options to allow bootloader to be unlocked. Maybe this, combined with factory recovery menu will set us free? Flash a modified factory rom with root enabled? The stock ROM is very clean.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Chuggers said:
There is an option to unlock bootloader. It's called OEM unlocking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
bandario said:
So, flicking this switch should unlock the bootloader???
That gives me a bit of hope for some development on this handset. None of the previous cat phones have seen any real development.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That switch is available in a lot of devices and does nothing on a lot of them
Sent from my Lenovo A7010a48 using XDA Labs

what is the point in rooting fones

rooting android fones have become so useless and tiresome. Iv always had to have an encrypted fone for work purposes but root for fun. Nowadays its become rediculour to root. Bl unlockin, custom binaries. For years iv always had to spend weeks searching for guides to root and encrypt but recently these samsung phones with the locked bl is a pis take. No amount of security will take over someone who has pysical access to your fone but the data can be reset which is what im trying to do wo allow me to encrypt my fone. Fuk it no one on xd bothers replyin anyway
Is that a question, a statement, or both?
I run stock Samsung's that are heavily optimized.
They run very well and even though the one is still running on Pie security is not an issue.
I spend very little time with maintenance and troubleshooting. The current OS load will be 2 yo in June, still fast, stable and fulfilling its mission.
What's not to like?
blackhawk said:
Is that a question, a statement, or both?
I run stock Samsung's that are heavily optimized.
They run very well and even though the one is still running on Pie security is not an issue.
I spend very little time with maintenance and troubleshooting. The current OS load will be 2 yo in June, still fast, stable and fulfilling its mission.
What's not to like?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
put twrp, root device then if it gets stole see if u cant slp at nite. Twrp breaks encrypt on sam fones and after all these years still no way of encryp
nidowak653 said:
rooting android fones have become so useless and tiresome. Iv always had to have an encrypted fone for work purposes but root for fun. Nowadays its become rediculour to root. Bl unlockin, custom binaries. For years iv always had to spend weeks searching for guides to root and encrypt but recently these samsung phones with the locked bl is a pis take. No amount of security will take over someone who has pysical access to your fone but the data can be reset which is what im trying to do wo allow me to encrypt my fone. Fuk it no one on xd bothers replyin anyway
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I root my phone to occasionally deal with discrepancies with just about any company that gives me problems. I do this via native call recording which as far as I am aware only works while rooted. Living in a one party consent state I don't even have to let the other party know I am doing so. To be honest though I can't really speak about root access on today's phones mine is a 2018. When I do choose my next phone I will definitely take the time to do my research and find an easy one that will do what I'm trying to do with it. Even if it is not going to the newest whatever phone. I find the benefit of having call recording far outways having the newest tech.
nidowak653 said:
put twrp, root device then if it gets stole see if u cant slp at nite. Twrp breaks encrypt on sam fones and after all these years still no way of encryp
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Physical possession is the only real security.
Anyone trying to steal my phone will bleed.
If I was you I be more concerned with data lose due to encryption. You are the one most likely to get locked out... and then you're boned. Especially if it's your last backup data drive.
Linux4life2211 said:
I root my phone to occasionally deal with discrepancies with just about any company that gives me problems. I do this via native call recording which as far as I am aware only works while rooted. Living in a one party consent state I don't even have to let the other party know I am doing so. To be honest though I can't really speak about root access on today's phones mine is a 2018. When I do choose my next phone I will definitely take the time to do my research and find an easy one that will do what I'm trying to do with it. Even if it is not going to the newest whatever phone. I find the benefit of having call recording far outways having the newest tech.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i remember when call recording was slowly being tak
blackhawk said:
Physical possession is the only real security.
Anyone trying to steal my phone will bleed.
If I was you I be more concerned with data lose due to encryption. You are the one most likely to get locked out... and then you're boned. Especially if it's your last backup data drive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
iv had a few phones that encrypt with root and have never got locked out, always kept backups. But this was years back. Now that every things moved on it seems securing the fone is getting much harder with the manufacters constantly ****in things up. Like samsung never had bootloader, now they do, no knox, know they do etc and it gets harder. But yea your so rite, nothing beats Physical possession, the only prob ? the theifs think like that about other ppls phones to haaaa
nidowak653 said:
rooting android fones have become so useless and tiresome. Iv always had to have an encrypted fone for work purposes but root for fun. Nowadays its become rediculour to root. Bl unlockin, custom binaries. For years iv always had to spend weeks searching for guides to root and encrypt but recently these samsung phones with the locked bl is a pis take. No amount of security will take over someone who has pysical access to your fone but the data can be reset which is what im trying to do wo allow me to encrypt my fone. Fuk it no one on xd bothers replyin anyway
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's the wrong question. The real quesion is: Why should anyone accept not being in full control of anything he paid a full price for?
Why leave the control to vendors who abuse it in their special interest, which mostly is against the user's favor?
The fact they are making it harder and harder is proof, that there's a lot to lose!
Elmarigo said:
That's the wrong question. The real quesion is: Why should anyone accept not being able to be in full control of any device that he paid a full price for?
Why leave the control to vendors who abuse it in their special interest, which mostly is against the user's favor?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
exactly ! But manufacterers no longer bother about customers and what they want. Its the wallet, once you pay they dont care.
Rooting gives you a higher level of control over your phone's internals. Usually, vendors hide most of the advanced optimization settings. These are exposed when you root your phone. Even without rooting, have a look at the settings screen of custom ROM's like Lineage and compare it with the stock setting screens, and you will see a number of 'extras' that help tweak your phone in ways the stock does not allow.

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