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[Q] noob rooting Gingerbread 2.3.6 w/SuperOneClick 2.3.3?

Hi, I'm trying to root my Samsung Galaxy S T-Mobile 4G (model T959V) running Gingerbread 2.3.6 using SuperOneClick 2.3.3.
I attempted root on a Windows 7 computer with:
both Samsung Kies Mini software and Samsung USB driver installed (downloaded from Samsung product page, can't post link)
Microsoft .NET 4 Extended and Microsoft .NET 4 Client Profile (which were already installed months ago for a seperate program)
USB Debugging enabled on the phone
connection via USB cable
I hit Root on Auto exploit, and after a few minutes got stuck at step #7, the window said it was (Not Responding) and I closed it. I tried the Auto exploit a second time and got stuck at step #2, again the window was (Not Responding), and I closed it. I made a third and final attempt, this time switching the exploit to psneuter, and got the same results as the second attempt.
I decided to do some more reading on the subject, and found that others were having the same problems getting stuck at step #7. Throughout my reading I have read mixed comments which say that SOC does not root Gingerbread, and others which have stated that it does. I have no idea which of the two are true, but I have read that SOC can 'root almost any phone'.. I thought my case would be no different, especially since I'm using the latest version of SOC.
Can I get some help? Is there any way that I can root this phone? Is the recovery partition on my device still OK after the multiple exploits I've tried on it? I almost want to reinstall back to stock, but am not sure if this is still an option anymore..

It works fine, mine freeezes as well, but all you have to be is patient. Sooner or later it will not freeze, but you do have to read if one of the steps failed though just in case.

When I rooted my wife's it did the same thing. Just need some patience. What I ended up doing was hitting run and walked away from my computer so it could do it's thing
Sent from my super fast AOIP SGH-T679!

Thanks for the comments guys, I really appreciate them.
Is waiting really all there is to it?? Ever since I disconnected the cable after the third attempt, my Galaxy S has been feeling a little abnormal. I noticed the appearance of my launcher (GO launcher) changed to a different color scheme, and a few shortcuts wouldn't execute until the phone was rebooted, the phone even shuts down 5-10 seconds faster (which wouldn't be bad if I knew I was rooted). Could all this be due to the fact that SOC just didn't finish writing to the phone?
If I try it a 4th time, will SOC overwrite the data that it had tried to put in the last 3 attempts?

Double44 said:
Thanks for the comments guys, I really appreciate them.
Is waiting really all there is to it?? Ever since I disconnected the cable after the third attempt, my Galaxy S has been feeling a little abnormal. I noticed the appearance of my launcher (GO launcher) changed to a different color scheme, and a few shortcuts wouldn't execute until the phone was rebooted, the phone even shuts down 5-10 seconds faster (which wouldn't be bad if I knew I was rooted). Could all this be due to the fact that SOC just didn't finish writing to the phone?
If I try it a 4th time, will SOC overwrite the data that it had tried to put in the last 3 attempts?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The only thing SOC will do is give you busybox and Superuser so it shouldn't mess with anything on your phone. (Correct me if I'm wrong people). I wait for like 5 minutes for SOC to come back up, so I guess waiting is all it is. You can always one-click back to stock if you think your phone is acting up.

AnAzyBoy9724 said:
The only thing SOC will do is give you busybox and Superuser so it shouldn't mess with anything on your phone. (Correct me if I'm wrong people). I wait for like 5 minutes for SOC to come back up, so I guess waiting is all it is. You can always one-click back to stock if you think your phone is acting up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks so much for your comment
I successfully rooted! Or so I think I did. SOC had finished and said that I was rooted, and it asked if I wanted to test it. I did test it, but nothing really happened? I was also never asked anything about 'Busybox'. I downloaded a root checker app, and I do indeed have 'su' privileges, along with the Superuser app. So I guess that's it
Now I'm kinda wondering, what should I do next now that I'm rooted w/SOC? Do I need to back anything up? I know there are many apps specifically designed for root like Titanium Backup, and ROM toolbox pro, but I'm wondering if any of these will be useful to me?
My main reasons for rooting, is that I want to freeze/disable bloatware from running in the background, and possibly remove them from my phone. I understand the consequences in removing the wrong app, but I only want to remove apps from companies like Facebook, Slacker, and a few others, nothing else.
Also, what does Superuser do? The apps list is empty and there is only 1 log. I found an app called SuperSU Pro that seems to replace the Superuser app, but I'm really sure how that works.

If you want to freeze/delete apps in the system, use Titanium Backup.

Well before you do anything since you are on gingerbread is get clockwork recovery on there. Easiest is to download bhvuden's kernel for 2.3 and use sgs kernel flasher app. Changing kernels won't erase anything but will give OC capability and custom recovery
Sent from my SGH-T959V using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

[Q] Kingpad k70 4.4 kitkat root help

Hi all,
Just bought a tablet off amazon not too long ago, Kingpad K70 (tabletexpress is the company), and I have been trying to find a way to root it. I have tried the various methods like Chainfire, Towelroot, and others, but still unable to. It is running kitkat 4.4.4, says model number is as KINGPAD K70. Any insight or assistance would be great! I also have stock .img file from company, as version on website did not work.
Thanks all,

angrynapkinz said:
Hi all,
Just bought a tablet off amazon not too long ago, Kingpad K70 (tabletexpress is the company), and I have been trying to find a way to root it. I have tried the various methods like Chainfire, Towelroot, and others, but still unable to. It is running kitkat 4.4.4, says model number is as KINGPAD K70. Any insight or assistance would be great! I also have stock .img file from company, as version on website did not work.
Thanks all,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try rooting with the following android apps.
Root Master
z4root
Universal Androot
Easy rooting toolkit
Framaroot

Thanks for your quick reply!
I tried all of the .apk files with no success so far but soon I will try the last one and update!

Well tried last one (root toolkit) on two different computers, both just waiting for device, Windows 8 had some compatibility issues, and my desktop, windows 7 automatically reinstalls the driver, and won't allow me to update to ADB device oddly.
Any insights?
Thanks

Same problem
I got the k70 with the rk3128 and NEED TO ROOT as well. I asked the customer service people at tabletexpress, and they weren't much help. I bought it off of amazon, and the title said it was compatible with 3d games... and the lie detector test determined, THAT WAS A LIE !!! no real racing, no dead trigger, no fast and furious, no temple run of any kind. I was lied to. The tablet is a POS to me, but could be better if I could root it. I googled til my brain was all googled out and found NOTHING. So now my only option it to complain and bother people here, amazon, and the customer service at TabletExpress for selling me such a POS tablet:good:

Forgot to update! Use kingo root, took a while but worked, and then I just installed rom toolbox and deleted kingos bs. Still don't like their Android edit, so if you find a workaround for cfw let me know!

angrynapkinz said:
Forgot to update! Use kingo root, took a while but worked, and then I just installed rom toolbox and deleted kingos bs. Still don't like their Android edit, so if you find a workaround for cfw let me know!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
updated: okay, I downloaded kingoroot on my computer. I hooked it up. Had the usb debugging on. wifi is on. I had it recognize the tablet once and it gave me the options to unroot and reroot. I chose reroot. it failed. So im trying to go again, but this time to unroot, then root, however i cannot get it to connect anymore, it keeps saying the tablet is offline! So im pretty sure im missin somethin here.... its sayin its offline, and i read that im supposed to "tick always allow from this computer" to avoid this problem. where would i find this prompt? how do i get to it? also, its not rooted[i checked with root checker] i dunno why it gave me the options unroot/reroot

SUCCESS!!
harlowneedstoroot said:
updated: okay, I downloaded kingoroot on my computer. I hooked it up. Had the usb debugging on. wifi is on. I had it recognize the tablet once and it gave me the options to unroot and reroot. I chose reroot. it failed. So im trying to go again, but this time to unroot, then root, however i cannot get it to connect anymore, it keeps saying the tablet is offline! So im pretty sure im missin somethin here.... its sayin its offline, and i read that im supposed to "tick always allow from this computer" to avoid this problem. where would i find this prompt? how do i get to it? also, its not rooted[i checked with root checker] i dunno why it gave me the options unroot/reroot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
:good::good: for you. I got around the "offline" thing by deleting the kingoroot app off the tablet, then proceeding normally. I did the unroot, but it failed, however it did remove some stuff that made my first reroot fail. So after I unrooted and failed. I rebooted the tablet, deleted the kingoroot app again, and proceeded to reroot. This time the reroot worked!! thank you angrynapkinz:good::good: hey, one more question, what apps to you recommend for this tablet. maybe something for the battery and the overheating. I also couldnt figure out how to play 3d games on it without it crashing

Try China Devices
is cwf custom firmware? Im not that experienced with flashing new ROMs, and it seems that most people here are about the brand name stuff. I was googling cfw's and found nothing except for this forum website that "specializes" in chinese tablets like the kingpad/dragontouch (pretty sure theyre all the same) i think the webmaster makes cfw's or if he doesn't, he'll find out. Thanks again for the root help:good:

Hey harlow, yea I meant custom firmware, the KitKat that they have loaded is obviously rooted previously, you'll notice the more you use it. I installed xposed installer and root browser's etc on it for battery monitoring and all, malwarebytes keeps picking up malware loaded into the tablet and every time I delete. It's reinstalled upon reboot so that's why I'm trying to figure out rom reflashing/cfw options. Still trying to figure out what to add and what not though so take your pick and let me know also what seems to work. I went search and found its been mix and match from forums.

angrynapkinz said:
Hey harlow, yea I meant custom firmware, the KitKat that they have loaded is obviously rooted previously, you'll notice the more you use it. I installed xposed installer and root browser's etc on it for battery monitoring and all, malwarebytes keeps picking up malware loaded into the tablet and every time I delete. It's reinstalled upon reboot so that's why I'm trying to figure out rom reflashing/cfw options. Still trying to figure out what to add and what not though so take your pick and let me know also what seems to work. I went search and found its been mix and match from forums.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah the kitKat they got on there is no comparison to the OG one on my cheap ass LG L70. I did malwarebytes and avast and found nothing on it so i guess im lucky. Im using Nova Launcher because it looks nicer and functions better. And theres this thing in the Google Play store called Root Booster. idk if you heard of it but you can set your tablet onto one of three modes: Speed, Battery, and Stock. Im on Speed right now, and it boosted the RAM about 50mbs. (I still cant play real racing on it tho) Have you taken the back off yet??? I cant figure it out!! I wanna replace the battery with something with bigger nuts... The stock one is garbage. I can squeeze about 5 hours out of it. Maybe ill glue on some heat sinks onto the chips, it gets really hot when im netflixin. So ill keep an eye out for the cfws. Have you tried reflashing with the stock one they got on tabletexpress? i havnt tried that, but maybe it wont have malware on it?

Yea it sucks, haven't found an alternative yet and still trying to figure this thing out. I had to flash one they emailed me cause the site one didn't work previously. The malware is like coudw.a or cloudsservice.apk every reboot, and also having a constant 115b up and download. No I haven't tried any games yet, or tried to open it up but I might do that, as I'm getting about the same battery wise.

angrynapkinz said:
Yea it sucks, haven't found an alternative yet and still trying to figure this thing out. I had to flash one they emailed me cause the site one didn't work previously. The malware is like coudw.a or cloudsservice.apk every reboot, and also having a constant 115b up and download. No I haven't tried any games yet, or tried to open it up but I might do that, as I'm getting about the same battery wise.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the tablet would work good as a playstation or rom player. I have yet to put my playstation games on it and also connect a ps3 controller to it. busy with differential equations and maplestory... I found a battery on aliexpress with about double the capacity. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/The-...ery-For-7-8-9-inch-tablet-PC/32213974542.html ...idk if itll fit tho. its a little thicker and longer on one side.... if it dont fit... ill make it fit > also, another app to boost the RAM is SmartBooster. I got a little over 200mb ram. yeah, ill update you when i find out other tips and shjt

Need PC/windoze to root.
"Root Android without PC," an info app on GP, indicates that phones/tablets with a kernel newer than 1/3/2014 can't be rooted w/o a PC. Framaroot doesn't work, it also fingers Kingo as possible solution. Kingo itself indicates that it's best for phones. I hate Windoze, but here goes.....
(Weeks ago, I saw something about invoking Linux instead--maybe it was a dream: Perhaps some of my brain cells exploded--no doubt due to "sprinting" cups at keg parties and then passing out long ago!)
I'm rating this thread a 3--still somewhat murky, without clear procedure to solution.

Thread is dead.
From rbrband57. This endeavor seems dead.
I still believe that replacing software/firmware is the key to getting the K70 to run better--the hardware likely is pretty good. I've been able to disable PRC bloatware, via some helpful cleanup software from GP. I'd like to uninstall. The loader at cold boot takes forever--I'd like to crucify that.
I'll reinstall kingoroot yet again, but I still don't know how to proceed further. Root confirm software says then rooted, but can't get SuperSu on--which might indicate true root, after all. Still not much info online.
My experience with rooting in the past was with a cheapo Icecream Polaroid 4.3" screen device from Big Lots: Full step-by-step procedure in one site, etc. Put a valid, new, upgraded .apk ROM on. Nothing can help the underpowered much, though--single core, 1GHz, perhaps, and 512MB sys mem.. GP worked sporadically afterwards--not really very well. Sold it to a guy in CA for his kid's Xmas last year.
Thanks for trying--Amazon no longer offers--K77, instead. Probably pretty much identical--hated, as well.

Can someone un-brick an Alcatel 4060a for me?

I recently attempted to root my Alcatel 4060a. It did not go well.
There is a thread here on xda that explains in some detail how to root this phone, but unfortunately I didn't discover that thread until after my failed attempt. I used KingRoot followed by SuperSUMe. This actually seemed to work, and I definitely had root on the phone, but when I rebooted, it got stuck on the AT&T logo. Although it wouldn't go past the logo, I discovered I could still get a root shell on it via ADB. So, thinking I could fix it, I renamed the files in /system/xbin that appeared to have been put there by the rooting process (based on their timestamps) and rebooted again. This made things worse though: Now the phone won't even get to the AT&T logo, it stays stuck at the initial Alcatel logo now. I can still get a shell on the phone via ADB, but now I can no longer get a root shell, just a regular user shell. (And if I run the renamed su binary in /system/xbin now it gives me a new shell, but without elevated privileges.)
From what I've read here on the forums, there's no way to unlock the bootloader on this phone, and even if there was, there doesn't seem to be either a factory rom image or an aftermarket image readily available, so I can't use fastboot to flash it.
In another post someone said that there is an image for this phone available from boot-loader.com. I signed up on that site and looked around and sure enough they do seem to have an image for it. If I understand that site though, you must purchase one of their diagnostic/repair devices to use any of their images. Although that might do the trick, this is a < $50 phone, so it certainly wouldn't be worth it to me to spend more than that to fix it.
So my question is, does anyone here on the forums have one of these devices, and might be able to get this phone working for me again? I'd be happy to pay you for your time of course. Even though it's an inexpensive phone, money is money and I hate to just throw it away and start over.
Or, if anyone has any suggestions on how I might still be able to fix it myself without buying any hardware (or at least not any expensive hardware), I'd be happy for that as well!
It's frustrating because I've rooted every Android phone I've owned over the years and never had a problem before. Fail.
Thanks in advance!

Hi !
I saw your post here , doest it mean that you have fixed your issue ?
As an advice , before doing anything with any device , knowing that you have done rooting plenty of other devices , don`t proceed to anything until you have this basic stuffs around : a flashing tool and stock firmware .
Cheers !

xanthrax said:
I saw your post here , doest it mean that you have fixed your issue ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I purchased a replacement phone. My comments in that other thread are referring to my replacement phone, which I was able to root without breaking this time. The original phone is still bricked. Fortunately this is an inexpensive phone ($30-$40), so I was able to replace it.
I'd still love to recover the bricked one though. It's not about the money, it just seems like such a waste to throw away a brand new phone just because it has bad software on it, even if it is a cheap one.
As an advice , before doing anything with any device , knowing that you have done rooting plenty of other devices , don`t proceed to anything until you have this basic stuffs around : a flashing tool and stock firmware .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, I know, and normally that is what I would have done. However this phone (even though it's rootable) has a locked bootloader. From all the research I've done, no one has discovered a way to unlock it yet, and no stock firmware seems to be available, except, as I mentioned in this thread, if you purchase a commercial flashing tool. That's not really an option for me since the costs of such tools are much higher than the price of this particular phone. That's why I was hoping to find someone here that has such a tool and would be willing to fix the phone for me for a reasonable price. I did find a shop that would do it for me locally, but they wanted close to $70. I could buy 2 or 3 of these phones for that price, so it wouldn't make sense to pay that much to repair it.
Do you know of any flashing tools that will work with this phone that are free or at least inexpensive? Since I have a second, identical, working, rooted phone now, perhaps there is some way I can pull the image off of that one to restore the first one?

Unfortunately no, I'm not aware of any kind of flashing tool for this device, also I don't think that just pulling a backup from a device and pushing it into another would work due to its locked bootloader.
If there is any paid flashing tool then there's is a reason why it's paid, the developer got probably some paid permissions from the manufacturer to use it and he wants the money back plus some extra, certain devices just can't be soft repaired without unlocked sources
Sent from my Darkside of Oneplus 3T

Root for the ZTE Avid Trio (Z833) (MetroPCS)?

Okay, I know I don't post much in XDA, but I do read a LOT of threads!
The reason I am posting this is because I am wondering if anybody achieved root on this phone.
I have tried KingRoot, KingoRoot, OneClickRoot, none of those work.
It is running Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow.
I am about to screw around with ADB, see what I can do. I'll post back when I have got something.
Sorry if I posted this in the wrong section, I don't post much on XDA.

any luck?

I've tried every root method available without the PC and nothing. But, there maybe good news. In developers options there's a switch to unlock the bootloader. Now I'm no dev but I hope this makes cwm or tarp easy for devs to port and root.

I found https://mobile.twitter.com/srsroot/status/810325782417592325?lang=en srsroot claims it supports ZTE Z833. I've used srsroot once before but on another phone I have no PC so I can't test it but someone should test Cydia impactor see if it works.

RE: comments
kotarou1 said:
I found https://mobile.twitter.com/srsroot/status/810325782417592325?lang=en srsroot claims it supports ZTE Z833. I've used srsroot once before but on another phone I have no PC so I can't test it but someone should test Cydia impactor see if it works.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. I too saw that twitter SRSRoot business and tried it thinking, "Oh joy!" no, not working. Tried it every way you could (yes Kingo, KingRoot, vRoot, iRoot, FramaRoot, uRoot, & we-all_Root (the last two were jokes don't be so serious, nor was it a complete list of what I did actually try, ha!) too). I even wrote the people at SRSRoot telling them that it didn't work and have gone back to download their latest versions, still nada, zip, zero. FML on toast!
2. Cydia Impactor is not for Android devices, it is only for iOS. I went and double-checked just to make sure I wasn't trippin' thinking that maybe they have gone cross-platform. No, they have not.
3. I have the phone in question, I submitted a formal request on here in the best way I could find to get it added to the XDA devices list and I have been eagerly monitoring awaiting the day it happens. I was even considering trying to compile TWRP myself, but I just bought a different phone because I was tired of the headache. I couldn't figure out how to extract the zImage from it in order to give it a go (I think that's what it was). Anyways, I'm writing this before finishing reading the rest of the posts and may be rambling, but I had to respond. I have spent much time doing this. I ended up buying a different MetroPCS phone called the Samsung Galaxy On5 and was able to successfully root it and after much waiting finally got ahold of the Superstarz ROM that finally went out for that one. Just an FYI in case someone happens to see this before making the purchase. I will say that I feel like the ZTE Avid Trio Z833 has pretty good response time for such a cheap phone, then again they had a deal on it in the store, it looked to be more expensive at retail pricing. Anyhow, I digress, but felt the need to contribute rather than just lurk.
Oh, and another thing... The development option to OEM Unlock is "checkable", but as for actually booting to the bootloader it WILL NOT DO IT. The only way this is gonna happen to be rootable is if you use a custom recovery (which none exist yet) in a tar format and ODIN the friggin thing from download mode. So, there's your catch 22. If anyone knows how to extract the zImage and whatnot (without root obviously) I'd be more apt to give it a go and boot my happy bunghole into Linux and give compiling TWRP another go. I finally have had a lot of life stresses temporarily die down since I decided not to leave my current living situation and just stay with these irritating bastards another month at a higher rate. FML & Cheers!: good:
I should mention, however, that SRSRoot attempted to use it's "Exploit 8." So, I went digging into it's directories to see what the script was, but it was binary (and I didn't have reverse-engineering **** handy like PE-ID, and whatever else the kids are using in this newer age). So, I was like "wah-wah", but if any experienced ppl know more about the specific exploits that aren't ancient and actually working with Marshmallow that would be interesting to hear feedback about as well. Thanks. I really would like to use this second phone still, but right now I'm just using it as a Kodi/Megabox HD + AllCast Projector to watch streaming things without having to interrupt my working phone in the middle of it. It would also be cool to use as a straight VOIP phone with no cell service connected, but I've yet to find the free Google Voice VOIP loophole that is currently working. PM me if you know of these
P.P.S. I wrote another spicy post on hardr3set dot info about what crap I felt about their B.S. (weaksauce compared to anything legit which we all know you come to XDA for the meat-and-potatoes) because I was so tired of searching the Goog for root ZTE Avid Trio Z833 and having it be the top result over and over. Finally this has risen up. Thank you for starting this. Oh, and also, please... If you would kindly also request for this device to be added formally, maybe it would encourage development. Not sure how all that works, but yeah... power in numbers right?
Sincerely,
~Ye of little faith

Bump

are you telling me that faults advertising runs ramped all over the internet even Google play store and this is the nondoing phone ever made and it can't be jailbroke nor rooted

Rooting your zte device
Can not be done. This phone is an unfortunate accident by ZTE with numerous problems and they are not small issues but ones that affect the performance of the device. Replace that phone or your only adding to your daily stress.

That kingroot and oneclickroot don't work
For this phone
a

Guessing this is a dead issue? It's an okay phone but lags horribly when it comes to multi tasking

Hey I don't want the root thing to die on this topic. So would it be possible to root via ADB update in recovery mode? Or to somehow update via SD card and applying root? I refuse to give up hope on this device lol

Anyone made progress on this? I just got this phone and it definitely has some issues, but I feel like root would resolve most of them.

Has anyone figured out a way to root this device?

I've searched for a long time without success. I hope something comes up.

Any progress on this? Thanks

following, bought one this morning hoping to have a cheap rootable phone.

I got mine from MetroPCS for $29. lol Yes, it's frustrating and has got problems (I've already put two of them through my dashboard and had to replace them, within the first 2 months, but it only cost 30buck so WTH. Anyways, I decided after I destroyed #2 that I was only going to use it for work and add no apps to it, except maybe GasBuddy and Winamp. Other than that, it's stock and I haven't had any real problems with it to speak of (problems aggravating enough to make me want to destroy it yet again).
So my suggestion to anyone who owns this phone, or is thinking about owning one: Don't install any more than a couple small apps, add a 32GB uSD card for music and other stuff, and use the thing as a phone and a media player only. The camera is pretty much worthless for quality photos, so there's really no other use for it. But it makes a great txting, voice calling, and music playing phone!
Of course, if you end up paying more than $30 for it, you probably paid too much. But it sure is a pretty nice phone for 30 buck!

Yes. root it please

I have a Z833. The phone only lags apps that are over 100mb I'll have test this out agin

I have ordered one of these phones for $20 should be here by Monday. When it arrives I'll be able to confirm if its bootloader is unlocked or not. In the meantime here is the firehose and support files (rawprogram0.xml and patch0.xml) as well as the MetroPCS B16 firmware to be flashed with QFIL or MiFlash. This will allow people to recover their device and hopefully if the bootloader isn't locked flash custom images.
Support files
https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=1395089523397898033
V1.0.0 B16 Firmware
https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=1395089523397898034

How to upgrade Note 20 Ultra from...Android 5.1. Seriously.

I need help from someone a lot smarter than me. First time poster, but no stranger to rooting. (If I break some protocol, please correct me, I want to be a good citizen.)
Background (can be skipped)
I bought a Note 20 Ultra 5G (model #SM-N9860F) from a guy for a steal of a deal. Now I know why. Before buying we started it up and made a phone call, so I figured most everything else would be fine. Took it home and started messing with it, only to find it laggy and exhibiting other odd behaviors. So I went to check for updates before loading it up with my stuff.
But there was no Update button. I tapped "Software Info" and the next thing I saw made me read it three times. It showed, "Android version: 5.1."
Issues
So...
The phone functions but with lag and issues. SIM is recognized, then unrecognized. SIM cannot be used for data (though wifi is fine).
Not kidding, Kingo Root says it was able to root this Snapdragon phone. Root Checker Basic confirms it as rooted.
Using all the various key combinations posted all over the Internet, I cannot get into Download mode. I've tried for days.
Rebooting into Recovery shows Chinese options. (After many days of messing with it I finally found a way for it to show the English list...happy to share how I got there if anyone cares.)
The phone does connect to a Windows PC successfully via USB and can share files to internal and external memory.
Interestingly, the 500GB of internal memory only shows a fraction of it as available. Wondering if Android 5.1 just can't recognize that much space.
Bottom line
I am unable to get into Download mode. When I do get to where I think Download mode should be, the green Android guy is lying down with the words "No command" underneath. Therefore I can't use Odin, or a paid service, or Samsung Smart Switch...even tried the old Kies, since it has Android 5.1 on it. ALL of them require me to get into Download mode, and it just won't go.
Plan B?: I've heard repeatedly that rooting a Note 20 Ultra is (nearly?) impossible. Since multiple apps on my device insist I successfully rooted it, I was hoping I could use the TWRP app (it's installed) to flash something that could help. But I don't know what that would be, or if it would help at all. TWRP doesn't recognize the .zip, .tar, or any other files I've found and copied to the device. Maybe it's looking for a .img? I'm just not sure, and I don't even know what to look for.
Additional info
I've attached a few screen shots and photos.
I'd be ever so grateful for anyone's guidance. Again,
How can I get into Download mode? Seems that would get me back on the paths I know better.
And/or what can I flash using TWRP on what appears to be a rooted device? Would that even help?
Thank you!

kbtraveler said:
I need help from someone a lot smarter than me. First time poster, but no stranger to rooting. (If I break some protocol, please correct me, I want to be a good citizen.)
Background (can be skipped)
I bought a Note 20 Ultra 5G (model #SM-N9860F) from a guy for a steal of a deal. Now I know why. Before buying we started it up and made a phone call, so I figured most everything else would be fine. Took it home and started messing with it, only to find it laggy and exhibiting other odd behaviors. So I went to check for updates before loading it up with my stuff.
But there was no Update button. I tapped "Software Info" and the next thing I saw made me read it three times. It showed, "Android version: 5.1."
Issues
So...
The phone functions but with lag and issues. SIM is recognized, then unrecognized. SIM cannot be used for data (though wifi is fine).
Not kidding, Kingo Root says it was able to root this Snapdragon phone. Root Checker Basic confirms it as rooted.
Using all the various key combinations posted all over the Internet, I cannot get into Download mode. I've tried for days.
Rebooting into Recovery shows Chinese options. (After many days of messing with it I finally found a way for it to show the English list...happy to share how I got there if anyone cares.)
The phone does connect to a Windows PC successfully via USB and can share files to internal and external memory.
Interestingly, the 500GB of internal memory only shows a fraction of it as available. Wondering if Android 5.1 just can't recognize that much space.
Bottom line
I am unable to get into Download mode. When I do get to where I think Download mode should be, the green Android guy is lying down with the words "No command" underneath. Therefore I can't use Odin, or a paid service, or Samsung Smart Switch...even tried the old Kies, since it has Android 5.1 on it. ALL of them require me to get into Download mode, and it just won't go.
Plan B?: I've heard repeatedly that rooting a Note 20 Ultra is (nearly?) impossible. Since multiple apps on my device insist I successfully rooted it, I was hoping I could use the TWRP app (it's installed) to flash something that could help. But I don't know what that would be, or if it would help at all. TWRP doesn't recognize the .zip, .tar, or any other files I've found and copied to the device. Maybe it's looking for a .img? I'm just not sure, and I don't even know what to look for.
Additional info
I've attached a few screen shots and photos.
I'd be ever so grateful for anyone's guidance. Again,
How can I get into Download mode? Seems that would get me back on the paths I know better.
And/or what can I flash using TWRP on what appears to be a rooted device? Would that even help?
Thank you!
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Sounds like you got what you paid for, it's probably a fake Note20 Ultra.
From what I can tell, the model & build numbers conflict, they're from different models of the Note 20 Ultra, that's why I think it's a fake.
Even the model number doesn't look right, it has a hybrid Chinese/European model number........

KOLIOSIS said:
Sounds like you got what you paid for, it's probably a fake Note20 Ultra.
From what I can tell, the model & build numbers conflict, they're from different models of the Note 20 Ultra, that's why I think it's a fake.
Even the model number doesn't look right, it has a hybrid Chinese/European model number........
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Hi Koliosis,
Yeah, thanks, that has crossed my mind, and that's why I posted those images. If it's fake it's a really good one, but I am aware I could have to chalk that up to experience.
Still, why in the world would a fake have Android 5.1 on it? And it works(-ish)! Isn't that still bizarre? Anything that can be done to force it into Download mode or to flash something with TWRP to at least get an OS from the modern era?
Thanks again...

kbtraveler said:
Hi Koliosis,
Yeah, thanks, that has crossed my mind, and that's why I posted those images. If it's fake it's a really good one, but I am aware I could have to chalk that up to experience.
Still, why in the world would a fake have Android 5.1 on it? And it works(-ish)! Isn't that still bizarre? Anything that can be done to force it into Download mode or to flash something with TWRP to at least get an OS from the modern era?
Thanks again...
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There should be several threads/tutorials here that show how to flash firmware using Odin (& of course,includes how to get into download mode).
Before you try that out,have you tried to use Samsung's Smart Switch program on your PC?
Given the information you've posted,it's difficult to determine which model you have,which makes matters worse since we don't want to make a bad situation worse.
I'd start with the Samsung Smart Switch, hopefully it'll be able to determine the make of your phone & flashing stock firmware should be a breeze. (If it's indeed a genuine Samsung Device).

KOLIOSIS said:
There should be several threads/tutorials here that show how to flash firmware using Odin (& of course,includes how to get into download mode).
Before you try that out,have you tried to use Samsung's Smart Switch program on your PC?
Given the information you've posted,it's difficult to determine which model you have,which makes matters since we don't want to make a bad situation worse.
I'd start with the Samsung Smart Switch, hopefully it'll be able to determine the make of your phone & flashing stock firmware should be a breeze. (If it's indeed a genuine Samsung Device).
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Yes sir, and that's my problem. I've rooted and changed ROMs on a dozen devices or more in the past (thanks to XDA!!), always using Odin. But this phone simply will not go into Download mode at all. Using every key combination I can find I either wind up with the Chinese recovery selections I mentioned or I get that "No command" screen with the Android lying on its back.
So far I've tried these PC apps:
Odin (several versions)
Smart Switch
Kies
FixPPO (https://android.imyfone.com/android-issues/android-no-command-error/)
DroidKit (https://www.imobie.com/android-system-recovery/fix-android-no-command-error.htm)
Some, like Odin and the paid options, require Download mode - which isn't working for me - so those apps can even tell I've plugged a phone into the USB port.
Just to put it out there, when the phone is booted into the OS and attach it to the PC, Windows recognizes it's connected but Smart Switch does not. That supports your point that it may not be a Samsung device, but I wondered if it could also have something to do with Smart Switch coming after 5.1 was old.
I just wondered if somebody who didn't know what they were doing somehow downgraded this phone to Android 5.1 before I accept it as a full loss. Still hoping...

kbtraveler said:
Yes sir, and that's my problem. I've rooted and changed ROMs on a dozen devices or more in the past (thanks to XDA!!), always using Odin. But this phone simply will not go into Download mode at all. Using every key combination I can find I either wind up with the Chinese recovery selections I mentioned or I get that "No command" screen with the Android lying on its back.
So far I've tried these PC apps:
Odin (several versions)
Smart Switch
Kies
FixPPO (https://android.imyfone.com/android-issues/android-no-command-error/)
DroidKit (https://www.imobie.com/android-system-recovery/fix-android-no-command-error.htm)
Some, like Odin and the paid options, require Download mode - which isn't working for me - so those apps can even tell I've plugged a phone into the USB port.
Just to put it out there, when the phone is booted into the OS and attach it to the PC, Windows recognizes it's connected but Smart Switch does not. That supports your point that it may not be a Samsung device, but I wondered if it could also have something to do with Smart Switch coming after 5.1 was old.
I just wondered if somebody who didn't know what they were doing somehow downgraded this phone to Android 5.1 before I accept it as a full loss. Still hoping...
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Makes since you tried Kies (given the stated Android version).
Can you download/sideload any apps that may help identify the phone (& check for Knox 0x0) such as this one:
Phone INFO+ (SAM) - Apps on Google Play
All-in-one INFO and TOOLS for Samsung devices.
play.google.com
AIDA64 - Apps on Google Play
Hardware and software information utility for Android devices
play.google.com
I wish I had more to offer,it's been years since I've dealt w/a rooted Samsung (Note 5).
Hopefully,others will chime in & offer a solution.
FWIW,Definitely following this thread, I'm interested in how things work out, hopefully for the better.

Aah i made an account just to respond to you
i had an iPhone 7 Jet Black replica with android 5.1 once upon a time, same symptoms- 8GB actual storage but will show 128GB when connected to PC
So here are my two cents: These devices won't be recognized by samsung tools as they are not having motherboards made by samsung. I would recommend that you check actual specs from AIDA64 and you will find out which company has made the motherboard or device, mine had strange MediaTek processor though. And hopefully you will find some chinese websites where people are talking about how to flash firmwares in these phones but i recommend not to do that, i had to lose my device as it got bricked.

Well, that's exactly why I come here. I'd never come across that AIDA64 app, and I've attached screen shots. I've never heard of a "Kirin," but sure enough, it's Huawei. Dang it!
@priteshsolanki, hate to hear about your experience. Thanks for the heads up.
So...does Huawei have a Smart Switch equivalent, lol? And by the way, even if I got this working, would Huawei have enough hardware in this bugger to be able to listen in and send data back to Mother China?? I don't know how that kind of thing works...

kbtraveler said:
Well, that's exactly why I come here. I'd never come across that AIDA64 app, and I've attached screen shots. I've never heard of a "Kirin," but sure enough, it's Huawei. Dang it!
@priteshsolanki, hate to hear about your experience. Thanks for the heads up.
So...does Huawei have a Smart Switch equivalent, lol? And by the way, even if I got this working, would Huawei have enough hardware in this bugger to be able to listen in and send data back to Mother China?? I don't know how that kind of thing works...
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This is strange, i think The AIDA64 app is being fooled here too! To find which company has made it, Its gonna be same experience as finding father of an orphan child which just had permanent memory loss
Its not Kirin, its not huawei.. why?-
So its showing ARMv7 32bit processor, which is definitely not Kirin 1020. because kirin 1020 is a high end processor itself too and uses 5nm technology and Cortex A78 architecture! (While yours is showing stone age 28nm with Cortex A7)
Then there is Platform MT6799. When i look up for that, its again showing totally different company- MediaTek chipset "Helio X30 (MT6799)" which is a deca core processor but what we got here in your details is a Quad core processor.
What we know about your processor:
- its Cortex A7 @1301 MHz and has 28nm manufacturing process
(can't be 5G at any cost)
- From above details it seems like an ancient processor which came out somewhere around 2012, probably thats why its running 5.1.
- The performance is equivalent to high end Android Jellybean device, but definitely not suitable for using in 2022
- The storage and RAM amount shown there are just to fulfill fantasies, dont expect it to be reliable. Its probably a 1 or 2GB Ram with 4 or 8GB storage.
- The software in the phone is really fantastic, i have never thought that a clone can be so perfect that even Apps like AIDA64 will have a hard time finding the facts!
Now coming to the main questions:
1) Can it be upgraded?
90% no based on research i have done in google, this phone is totally non existent for google. for remaining 10% you can expect the rom maker to contact you in DMs after seeing your thread here and offer you an upgrade lol
2) Should you use any file syncing tools with it?
Quick answer: Syncios app is your best bet to sync data between phone and back, but only luck can help you find actual firmware of the device
Slightly long answer: So according to our findings all these data shown in phone settings fake, and syncing apps back in 2011-12 i think its going to give you hard time finding a working one. Android 5.1 in todays time is not something you should be using as daily driver for sure. I suggest you to just treat it like a toy.
About my iPhone 7 back in the day, i bought that one for some 60USD but it was worth it, had some kind of apple music app which never required login but was able to stream any songs for free. so ive used that one out for music only.
I really wish there was a better way to put it, but you can try one last dry hope at needrom website to see if they have any details about this device.

kbtraveler said:
But there was no Update button. I tapped "Software Info" and the next thing I saw made me read it three times. It showed, "Android version: 5.1."
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Like has been said, sounds like you got a fake, Software info is one of the first things I would have checked before buying, not after you have bought it and then start having issues. Unfortunately you only really have yourself to blame. like is quite often said if the deal "seems to good to be true" there are reasons why.

@samorgs60, you are very right. I've taken many chances like this one on many electronic devices, and to my recollection, this is the first time I got burned. It's kind of like speeding: I don't always obey the speed limit to the letter (number?), so in the past when I got what I believe was an unfair speeding ticket - I was accused of going faster than I was - I dealt with it my accepting it as a balance in the universe for all the times I should have been busted.
@priteshsolanki, what a catch! Wow. That is kinda amazing, and would explain why it has 5.1 on it. I'm actually astonished at the quality of the device in every way, other than the obvious.
So I hate to ask this, but...isn't it true that carriers (I won't mention mine by name here) make offers for value against a new phone if your current phone simply 1) turns on and 2) does not have a cracked screen? That kinda seems to describe what I've got right now. Not interested in misleading on purpose, but what is the likelihood this would qualify as a trade-in? If they took it initially, what's the likelihood of it coming back to haunt me (the carrier contacting me about it not being a Samsung)?
Really appreciate the help, guys!

It sucks that you got a fake. If you paid with PayPal or Credit, I'd file a claim/dispute and try to return for a refund. Carriers usually log the IMEI of trade ins and if it doesn't match the model or is blacklisted in any way, the trade will be denied.