Database Info

Is rooting worth it?

Hello, I have a Motorola Droid X, and was wondering if it was worth while to root it. My dad has a rooted phone, and I kind of think it's cool some if the stuff you can do. But, I don't think I totally understand rooting yet.
So because if this I'm wondering if there is anything that makes it worth rooting ? I've also seen some of the custom themes and stuff that you can get on a rooted phone. Do those make your battery life a lot shorter?
Thanks for any help I can get
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App

dritz33 said:
Hello, I have a Motorola Droid X, and was wondering if it was worth while to root it. My dad has a rooted phone, and I kind of think it's cool some if the stuff you can do. But, I don't think I totally understand rooting yet.
So because if this I'm wondering if there is anything that makes it worth rooting ? I've also seen some of the custom themes and stuff that you can get on a rooted phone. Do those make your battery life a lot shorter?
Thanks for any help I can get
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If root isn't worth it for you (depending on apps you are using and if you are a developer), then at least a custom recovery is. Making backups is quite an obsession, but can save u weeks of work.

show-p1984 said:
If root isn't worth it for you (depending on apps you are using and if you are a developer), then at least a custom recovery is. Making backups is quite an obsession, but can save u weeks of work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What exactly is a custom recovery? Sorry I'm really new to this kind of stuff. I didn't even know you could change the homescreen until today and no, I'm definitely not a developer
So then what all can I do with rooting my phone then?
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App

dritz33 said:
So then what all can I do with rooting my phone then?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
- Make screenshots.
- Run a firewall to keep apps offline that don't need internet but use it anyway.
- Control app permissions.
- Block ads.
- Tether your internet, even if your carrier doesn't support it.
- Make full backups of your data, apps,, and settings.
- Auto-sync your clock with a time server.
- Undervolt for longer battery life, overclock to make your phone faster.
And much more.

dritz33 said:
Hello, I have a Motorola Droid X, and was wondering if it was worth while to root it. My dad has a rooted phone, and I kind of think it's cool some if the stuff you can do. But, I don't think I totally understand rooting yet.
So because if this I'm wondering if there is anything that makes it worth rooting ? I've also seen some of the custom themes and stuff that you can get on a rooted phone. Do those make your battery life a lot shorter?
Thanks for any help I can get
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd say YES! Personally its the Best thing I've ever done with my phone! Here's a few Incentives...
1.) Wireless Tether
2.) Increased Cpu Speed
3.) Better Battery Life
4.) Nandroid Backup
(Which basically Allows you to Fix Anything you may of messed up)
5.) New Custom Roms!!!

hi all, me to very new to this forum, and thought of asking questions regarding , what is rooting and what are the +vs of it. I get most from above replies thank you all for that, i have few more question.
1.) Does rooted phone UI will be stock version ?
2.) what may be possible -vs / disadvantages of rooting?
3.)what are Custom Roms, i see in many threads - yup am completely noob
thanks,
merin

dritz33 said:
What exactly is a custom recovery? Sorry I'm really new to this kind of stuff. I didn't even know you could change the homescreen until today and no, I'm definitely not a developer
So then what all can I do with rooting my phone then?
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
a custom recovery system is used to flash zip files that are not signed (correct me if im wrong)
i suck at explaining things.
in your case you will be using a bootstrapper (just think of it as a custom recovery system, dont get confused)
once you learn and read more and see the benefits then you can decide if rooting is an option you want.

merin_83 said:
1.) Does rooted phone UI will be stock version ?
2.) what may be possible -vs / disadvantages of rooting?
3.)what are Custom Roms, i see in many threads - yup am completely noob
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Yes. Rooting gives you access to the system files and folders. It doesn't change anything else, unless you start changing things after you've rooted your phone.
2) Plenty of advantages. The only disadvantage is that rooted phones are not covered by warranty. You can get your warranty back by unrooting, but if something on your phones breaks that prevents you from unrooting you're out of luck.
3) Modified versions of Android. It's a bit like all the different versions of Linux for computers.

Definitely the best thing I have ever done to my Fascinate!

Thank you rogier666..
you explained everything...
Defiantly i want to root... But before that i guess i should do bit research on which version i should use O
Sent from my GT-I9100 using XDA App

Unbelievably worth it in my opinion!
It opens up a whole new world of possibilities and fine tuning. In addition to this, you can often talk to the people who develop some of the custom roms/features and receive direct support. Also, this scale of developing usually means any problems are corrected within a week (instead of within 4-6 months from the manufacturer). Having the ability to make nandroid backups (think of them as save states) is yet another wonderful feature.
Happy rooting!

dritz33 said:
Hello, I have a Motorola Droid X, and was wondering if it was worth while to root it. My dad has a rooted phone, and I kind of think it's cool some if the stuff you can do. But, I don't think I totally understand rooting yet.
So because if this I'm wondering if there is anything that makes it worth rooting ? I've also seen some of the custom themes and stuff that you can get on a rooted phone. Do those make your battery life a lot shorter?
Thanks for any help I can get
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't be Fooled by the Pessimists!
Rooting your phones the Most fun you can have with your Pants On!
Lol... Nah but Seriously its Definitely Worth it!
Sent from my wildheroc using XDA Premium App

No your battery life will not be shorter if you flash the correct way, make sure you have it fully charged then flash. After this you drain it all the way and then charge it all the way. Do it again (twice) then boot into recovery and wipe battery stats. I think this is correct, I may have the steps switched around and someone correct me if i am wrong. Overall, many custom roms actually give you better battery life.

To Root or Not To Root, That is the Question
The decision to root your phone is highly dependent on your personality and background.
For example, many people "just want it to work." This basically means that they don't care how it works, they just want to use the device as-advertised. They expect the device to give them what they pay for. Their priorities are elsewhere.
This gets a little more complicated because rooting is basically tearing down a wall that is hiding additional functionality. The complication comes from the person knowing the extra functionality is behind that wall and finding value in that extra functionality. The question of whether rooting is "useful" depends on how much value the person puts on that addition functionality (minus the potential headache of figuring out to root).
An example is tethering to access the internet with a laptop by connecting to the phone via wifi, USB, or other means. For tethering, service providers charge about $20-$30 which can be gotten for free with rooting + the appropriate apps. That's an obvious value. The cost is when the service provider decides to try to block that tethering which can be a headache trying to circumvent. There are also the moral implications...
Other reasons may be to
- learn the unknown -- who knows, you might try to make an app to do what you want to do and get paid. you could dig into the kernel and become an expert, you could start creating themes and become skilled at visual/UI design.
- control the bull$#!^ that your service provider is trying to feed you (media, ads, pay apps, etc). remove all those junk apps that they force upon you too.
- impress the ladies -- seriously, if you can get them facegoogle+ in a car on a road trip they may nod a googlyface in the future. nerd girls get their own by definition, don't try, just belong.

dritz33 said:
Hello, I have a Motorola Droid X, and was wondering if it was worth while to root it. My dad has a rooted phone, and I kind of think it's cool some if the stuff you can do. But, I don't think I totally understand rooting yet.
So because if this I'm wondering if there is anything that makes it worth rooting ? I've also seen some of the custom themes and stuff that you can get on a rooted phone. Do those make your battery life a lot shorter?
Thanks for any help I can get
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My opinion is it depends on the particular device and what the root consists of. I have an Inspire 4G that I won't root because it just works too well as is and the root process is super-duper ugly and convoluted. However, I also have a Nexus S and, although it works perfectly fine without rooting, I have it root because the rooting process is simple and straightforward and the bootloader is open to being unlocked by a normal means rather than an ugly hack. And I only use root on my Nexus S to use certain apps that require root. I don't flash any other ROMs and I even allowed it to return to the original recovery image. Also I relocked the bootloader.
The only difference between my Nexus S and it's original state is the super-simple root. In fact, the only way to tell my Nexus S is different is to run an app that requires root. The app will work on mine and not on the original.

I wil do it olsow

+1 - well said
rogier666 said:
- Make screenshots.
- Run a firewall to keep apps offline that don't need internet but use it anyway.
- Control app permissions.
- Block ads.
- Tether your internet, even if your carrier doesn't support it.
- Make full backups of your data, apps,, and settings.
- Auto-sync your clock with a time server.
- Undervolt for longer battery life, overclock to make your phone faster.
And much more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

To Root, or not to Root?

Right, I'm getting sick of waiting for the official JellyBean update for my S2, will it be worth it for me to root the fone myself? If so, how do I go about doing it?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda app-developers app

Yes it is worth it. Check the international s2 forums and search it up.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Yes it's definately worth it to root. A little risky at first but if you get rooted, your home free and will be loading custom roms almost daily. Many apps will only run on rooted phone. Go for it!

mr
yes it`s worth it.so you can install custom roms.good luck.

It's only "worth it" if you have a reason to.
It's like... "is it worth buying a 30 gallon aquarium for $10" ? Sure, if you actually want a 30 gallon aquarium, it would be - but if you don't, it's just going to sit there unused and taking up space (and in the case of root access, opening up potential vulnerability).
Some people are flash-happy, but I only update mine maybe every few weeks because it's kind of a pain. And I only rooted and flashed a custom ROM on my tablet because it's no longer supported by the manufacturer - meaning a custom ROM was the ONLY way to get updates. I rooted my phone because I wanted to install Google Wallet and that required some work-arounds since my carrier is blocking it.
If you get into unofficial ROMs of updated Android versions, unless it's a leak, there are often problems - various things won't work, bugs, et cetera. It can still be fun, but don't expect it to be perfect.
Find something that you want to do with your device that requires root access and then worry about it.

Banksy1892 said:
Right, I'm getting sick of waiting for the official JellyBean update for my S2, will it be worth it for me to root the fone myself? If so, how do I go about doing it?
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you own an Android device, chances are you’ve probably heard of the term “rooting” or “rooted.” If you have and are wondering if it’s for you, this post is perfect, as we break down the major pros and cons of rooting your Android smartphone.
Before we go any further though, what exactly is “rooting”? Rooting refers to gaining access to the "root" user or command prompt of your Android phone. Root access gives users full access to the device and allows for other low-level tasks to be run. Rooting an Android phone is similar to "jail breaking" an iPhone or the "unlocking" of a Windows Phone.
When you root your Android device, you gain access to the entire file system, with full admin rights. You can customize your own boot image, create a full backup of your phone, or install a full-blown Linux distro. Basically, you can do whatever you want.
So, should you root your phone? For me, the answer to that question is a resounding yes, but before you decide, read on to see our list of the major pros and cons of rooting.
Pros of Rooting
Some of the best reasons to root your Android phone include:
1. "Tethering" your 4G/3G internet connection to a laptop computer or tablet via USB cable, Hotspot or Bluetooth. While I don’t recommend this, you will essentially be able to tether for free without paying your carrier a fee.
2. Installing custom themes, mods, and ROMS. This is probably the reason most people root their phone. The ability to deeply customize your own device and upgrade software is very appealing to a lot of rooters.
3. Backing up all the data and apps on the device.
4. The ability to install any application or game, including those "blocked" or Tegra-only games.
5. The ability to underclock the processor to conserve power. This is huge for a lot of people as Android devices are real battery hogs. I have been able to squeeze out days of battery life on a medium-sized battery by underclocking, which is pretty significant.
6. The ability to remove bloatware from your carrier-branded Android device. We all know that carriers love putting quite a bit of crap on their phones and rooting is one way to get rid of it.
Cons of Rooting
Some of the major reasons not to root your Android device include:
1. If the rooting process fails you may permanently "brick" your phone, rendering it unusable for anything other than, well, a brick. Basically, your phone will be useless.
2. Rooting your phone typically voids any manufacturer and carrier warranties. This is pretty crappy, honestly, but some OEMs won't cover certain things. It is really up to the manufacturer. You could lose out big, though, if something major breaks and you have to pay the full repair price.
3. Other drawbacks are more specific to what is done after the device is rooted, such as burning out your smartphone CPU due to overclocking, wearing out the SD card prematurely and burning out pixels in the screen. Additionally, the potential monetary costs that your carrier might apply if they see you've downloaded several gigs of data to your laptop could be big.
4. Rooting usually causes general instability of your Android smartphone. This is a given, as you are basically beta testing modifications and ROMS before they become daily drivers. Expect great performance, but a lot of bugs.
So, is Rooting really for You?
If you're a hacker or tinkerer and don’t mind bugs, I’d say yes. If you’re not, I’d say hold off and make sure it’s really what you want. You must remember that with most phones, once you root, you can’t go back. It is very difficult, in most cases, to completely reset your device to factory conditions, which is definitely something to consider before you decide.
However, if you’re like me--happy with your device as is, but just love pushing the envelope--I'd say wait until your warranty expires. After your warranty runs up, which is usually a year after purchase, there is really nothing to lose.
If you have any additional pros or cons to rooting, leave them in the comment below.

If your warranty is over, definitely root.
Galaxy s2 is a pretty safe and easy device to flash. No need to mess with bootloaders and all. There are many guides in the forum, check them out. If something does go wrong, you will most probably find the solution in this forum itself.
You might might end up waiting indefinitely for the official update for your country from samsung. Flashing it yourself will keep you up to date.
But its time consuming if you are new to all this. There is a LOT to read. I know because I was there. It was after a lot of reading that I felt confident enough to root my phone. But now I flash a little bit to often!
Try a custom ROM based on the latest official samsung. I use NeatROM Lite 4.3, based on LSD. Stable, fast and bloatware free. There are a lot of them, pick the one that suits your need. Or if you're feeling adventurous, try most of them like I did!

Help With Rooting My Verizon Galaxy S3
I Am New To Rooting And I Would Like To Know If It's At All Possible To Install Android 4.2 On My Verizon Galaxy S3, I Feel My Phone Is Very Sluggish And I Would Like To Uninstall All The Bloatware On The Phone. Any Positive Help Would Be Greatly Appreciated Thanks In Advance!

Root
I was feeling the same way on my Atrix HD. Now i am glad i did it, its worth doing, you have greater access to apps, programs, and other things. IT was also simple to me.
#newbie

Harley Malvado said:
I Am New To Rooting And I Would Like To Know If It's At All Possible To Install Android 4.2 On My Verizon Galaxy S3, I Feel My Phone Is Very Sluggish And I Would Like To Uninstall All The Bloatware On The Phone. Any Positive Help Would Be Greatly Appreciated Thanks In Advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google is your friend, try using it.

Root!!!! I rooted my s2 the first day of having it. Best thing ever. I only update every 2 months or so, make sure bugs are out. I am on ga10 right now which 4.1.2. Even did it to the wife's phone. Original software is not good and slow updates. I am planning on rooting whatever new I get.

definetely root, because with root you can use many hidden capabilities like reverse tethering, free wifi tethering and so on

transplant / restore TA partition from the other phone

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...

Kingroot? Anyone?

I have the Z5 coming in a couple of days and want to get familiar with it before it arrives.
I've previously had the Samsung Note 2, which was a pleasure and easy to root and flash roms, but had horrible burn issues dues to AMOLED display. I've also owned two LG phones (the Optimus G Pro and the G2) both of which sucked due to easily being bricked.
Is the root app Kingroot a good way to go? Or should I opt to do the headache-causing fastboot adb method?
I'm probably just going to keep the stock rom that is on the phone, I believe it will be 5.1 or 5.1.1 as I've heard that MM takes away the Stamina mode.
Seeing that I will probably keep stock rom, all I want to do is root the phone so that I can remove bloatware and install Titanium and Philz One Touch or TWRP if the Philz is not available for this phone.
So, having searched, I found no threads on the Kingroot app. is there anyone here with experience with this?
DISCLAIMER: I AM VERY WELL AWARE OF THE HOUSE TROLLS WHO COME ALONG AND CHANT THINGS LIKE "SEARCH FIRST BEFORE ASKING QUESTIONS" AND I'M WELL AWARE OF THOSE WHO WOULD RATHER POST A LINK TO ANOTHER TOPIC. PLEASE! DO NOT DO EITHER OF THESE. I AM SIMPLY LOOKING TO DISCUSS THIS WITHIN THIS THREAD.
THANK YOU AND COME AGAIN.

Tbh I don't think kingroot is supported as there is no root method.
There is however a kingroot thread maybe a search
I for one would use it to root then change to supersu not caring about my details being shared all we all want is root what ever method
http://bfy.tw/4plb
http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/apps-games/one-click-root-tool-android-2-x-5-0-t3107461
Since there is another thread dedicated why is there need to discuss it here?
After reading your "disclaimer" [emoji14]
(sorry couldn't resist lol)
Sent from my Xperia™ Z5 using Tapatalk

Kingroot won't work. At this time. Because of bootloader protection Sony created. Not root for Locked Bootloader at this point, maybe but maybe in future...

bubimir13 said:
Kingroot won't work. At this time. Because of bootloader protection Sony created. Not root for Locked Bootloader at this point, maybe but maybe in future...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's due to dm-verity that has been available on Linux for some time and that Google and Sony and others implemented. That however maybe possible to be patched using some sort of exploit which is what root apps use to root in the first place for many years
Sent from my Xperia™ Z5 using Tapatalk

I didn't see the other thread for Kingroot. And that thread you posted was about Kingroot in general. I was looking for Kingroot germane to the Z5.
(I've been coming here for almost three years and have found the search function to be as much of a headache and the web version of this site. Ever notice how many awful ads there are and other things that cause the page to load like it was 1997?)
Any how, thanks all for your input. I figured Kingroot was too good to be true. LOL
So if I'm understanding correctly, after unlocking the bootloader, the only way to root is through fastboot ADB? (ugh)

Perry2547 said:
I didn't see the other thread for Kingroot. And that thread you posted was about Kingroot in general. I was looking for Kingroot germane to the Z5.
(I've been coming here for almost three years and have found the search function to be as much of a headache and the web version of this site. Ever notice how many awful ads there are and other things that cause the page to load like it was 1997?)
Any how, thanks all for your input. I figured Kingroot was too good to be true. LOL
So if I'm understanding correctly, after unlocking the bootloader, the only way to root is through fastboot ADB? (ugh)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand that's why I use Google with XDA at the end of the search term instead of XDA search. in fact I don't even use the XDA site anymore because the ads and tracking slows the pages right down.
Yeah I wouldn't actually unlock my bootloader anymore even if I could.
The process is to install a custom kernel with fastboot
Sent from my Sony Xperia Z5 using XDA Labs

So in order to root, first would have to unlock the bootloader, and you wouldn't recommend that?
It's not that big of a deal right now to me as with Lollipop many of the bloatware apps can be disabled.
One of the things I'm really wanting to do is figure out what way to tweak this device (when it gets here) so that there won't be over heating issues. I did my research before buying this phone and I think it's going to be a good one. I've seen some posts about the camera not being that great but I still have hopes that the camera will be one of the best parts of it.
At the moment, since my G2 is nothing more than a paperweight, (due to my attempt at replacing the non-removable battery) I'm using a $49 Kyocera from Walmart. So just about anything will be better than the camera on this phone, LOL

Currently yes. Not unlocking the bootloader is my personal opinion.
I don't have any overheating issues and camera is great. Trouble with research is people only write the bad they have. People also write the bad without properly debugging the issue I think most the issues are due to user with a small percentage being faulty units.
Sent from my Xperia™ Z5 using Tapatalk

Is rooting worth it?

Hello guys,
I bought an S7 around 2/3 months ago. I'm in the UK meaning that I don't have Samsung Pay and probably wont when it releases (Natwest didn't support the Android Pay launch so they probably won't for the Samsung Pay either so I don't really care if I root.) I'm considering about rooting the device but I have a few questions.
1. What apps and features do i lose access to when the flash counter is triggered?
2. Is there a way to reset the flash counter to get them apps to work again?
3. Is there an app which allows me to change the Ultra Power Saver apps? (I know there was one for the S5 rooted but don't know if it works on the S7 and can't currently try it due to it needing root perms)
4. Would you recommend rooting the device? (I've rooted my Moto G 2nd gen in the past but didn't really use it for all that much though I feel that with an S7 I might be able to do more things by being rooted.)
Thanks in advance

1. The only thing I think you really lose is Samsung Pay (since I rooted yesterday haven't noticed any other major issues)
2. As of right now there is no option to do this, though I know other devices have recieved the ability through triangle away. Sadly this is not currently available.
3. It doesn't currently look like it, but I think they will probably update the app (looked and the app i found was UPSM+ and it costs money so couldn't actually test)
4. I'm happy I did because I can use apps like sixaxis for using my ds4 controller, and I'm trying out viper audio which I've heard is good)
Don't know if this helps or not, I like to know I have the full control of my device, but that's just me maybe.

I always root everything, but this phone almost like a Greek Goddess - beautiful and accommodating. But after about a month I went ahead and rooted it. I am a heavy user of Google chrome and Google music radio stations and the amount of ads they push through their channels is extremely obnoxious. I feel guilty toward Greek Gods now, but I am at peace...

Palisandr said:
I always root everything, but this phone almost like a Greek Goddess - beautiful and accommodating. But after about a month I went ahead and rooted it. I am a heavy user of Google chrome and Google music radio stations and the amount of ads they push through their channels is extremely obnoxious. I feel guilty toward Greek Gods now, but I am at peace...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you suggest I root the phone? I'm very worried that I will not like the consequences that come with it. I've seen and looked up the issues that it has, and I have also seen that they have been fixed. My main focuses are: Battery Life, performance, texting and calling works, I get a good signal from my carrier.
Do these all work like they should? Do they work as if there isn't even root on the phone?

Nobiscis said:
Would you suggest I root the phone? I'm very worried that I will not like the consequences that come with it. I've seen and looked up the issues that it has, and I have also seen that they have been fixed. My main focuses are: Battery Life, performance, texting and calling works, I get a good signal from my carrier.
Do these all work like they should? Do they work as if there isn't even root on the phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Being rooted itself shouldn't affect anything you listed. Now certain apps you install that require root may negatively affect battery life, and possibly performance, but texting, calling, and signal shouldn't change. Rooting essentially gives you administrator privileges like on a Windows PC, what you do from there is what will affect you the most.

Palisandr said:
I always root everything, but this phone almost like a Greek Goddess - beautiful and accommodating. But after about a month I went ahead and rooted it. I am a heavy user of Google chrome and Google music radio stations and the amount of ads they push through their channels is extremely obnoxious. I feel guilty toward Greek Gods now, but I am at peace...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Outbreak444 said:
Being rooted itself shouldn't affect anything you listed. Now certain apps you install that require root may negatively affect battery life, and possibly performance, but texting, calling, and signal shouldn't change. Rooting essentially gives you administrator privileges like on a Windows PC, what you do from there is what will affect you the most.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know, but there have been several user saying that they are having the issues I have stated.

Nobiscis said:
I know, but there have been several user saying that they are having the issues I have stated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well are you using the US variant? There are some problems with the engboot but a lot of users are saying that they are resolved with the fixes they provide. A lot of people are sticking with it because they still feel the pros outweigh the cons. Something to think about if you, yourself, would prefer root over stock.

Outbreak444 said:
Well are you using the US variant? There are some problems with the engboot but a lot of users are saying that they are resolved with the fixes they provide. A lot of people are sticking with it because they still feel the pros outweigh the cons. Something to think about if you, yourself, would prefer root over stock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am on the US variant. One of the main reasons I'd be rooting is for the game hacks I can get, so those are the biggest pros for me

Nobiscis said:
I am on the US variant. One of the main reasons I'd be rooting is for the game hacks I can get, so those are the biggest pros for me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In that case, as long as you won't miss Samsung Pay then go for it. You can always flash back to stock if you aren't happy with it. Give it a week and see if you get used to it. If not, then there is a thread here that explains how to flash back to stock completely.

Outbreak444 said:
In that case, as long as you won't miss Samsung Pay then go for it. You can always flash back to stock if you aren't happy with it. Give it a week and see if you get used to it. If not, then there is a thread here that explains how to flash back to stock completely.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a way I can flash a backup?
Sorry, noob questions

Nobiscis said:
Is there a way I can flash a backup?
Sorry, noob questions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if you root and want to restore later on. I Recommend flashing a recovery such as TWRP and create a backup via TWRP. once that's done, bootup device and install SuperSU. Once that's done, open app and let it flash what it need a to flash via TWRP. there should be threads here in XDA for your device. Backups can only be done with a recovery. If this is your first time. READ THE PROCEDURES CAREFULLY. No one is to blame but your self if you screw up your device. Research before acting
Sent from my One using XDA Free mobile app

Nobiscis said:
Is there a way I can flash a backup?
Sorry, noob questions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course, look into FlashFire, it should be able to backup and flash.

You will most likely forfeit your remaining manufacturers warranty.
I run the non-rooted version of the 935f exynos S7e and have superb battery life unlike some that rooted it.
Unless you are particularly adverse to TW or need to play constantly with icons I wouldn't bother. Samsungs stock browser is also very fast.

drummerman said:
You will most likely forfeit your remaining manufacturers warranty.
I run the non-rooted version of the 935f exynos S7e and have superb battery life unlike some that rooted it.
Unless you are particularly adverse to TW or need to play constantly with icons I wouldn't bother. Samsungs stock browser is also very fast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't really care that much about the warranty really, I've owned quite alot of devices in the past and haven't needed to use the warranty's for any of them. My device used to have really good battery life but it just feels that these days the life has gone down quite significantly.
I do like the customization which root permissions gives. I guess I might have to wait until Samsung Pay comes out to see if my bank (Natwest) supports the launch or not. I only want to root for the UPSM app really since most of the root battery saver apps don't work from my past experiences.

Nobiscis said:
I know, but there have been several user saying that they are having the issues I have stated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did not notice any adverse effects yet, but I only installed one program requiring root - Adaway. I am sure you know, but by rooting the phone you void your warranty, trip Knox and will not be able to use Samsung and Android pay.