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Hi there - cretinous noob posting a thread here.
As I was thinking of buying a Sony Xperia Z3 in the UK, as the thread title says, I was wondering where people on here have got the handset from and state what locks the handsets have. Here's one way to post said information (this is an example)
- Location/Store: Carphone Warehouse - Birmingham (UK) (they're known for selling untampered handsets)
- SIM Lock Status: Unlocked
- Bootloader Lock Status: Unlockable (permanently locked handsets are usually acquired through carriers sadly)
Also, just to be clear, this thread applies to everyone on an international level, even though I am buying said handset from the UK.
Special thanks go to rehanraza for inspiring me to write this thread, especially when this will (hopefully) help potential buyers when it comes to buying the Xperia Z3.
Xperia Z2 Survey Thread by rehanraza: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2724226
I got my Xperia Z3 yesterday, from 3 and the information is as follows:
-Location/Store: Carphone Warehouse - Worksop (Nottinghamshire) (UK)
- SIM Lock Status: Unlocked
- Bootloader Lock Status: Unlockable (permanently locked handsets are usually acquired through carriers sadly)
Bear in mind mine is from the 3 network, however, I flashed the generic UK FTF to get rid of the carrier stuff.
Won't happen.
There are surveys for all Xperias and that never helped.
Buy carier free device and you'll get BL status yes.
Just hold your horses and check everything before you unlock your BL.
Sony has DRM keys which will be permanently deleted if you unlock bootloader.
If there's still no way to root device before unlocking bootloader that means there's no way to backup DRM keys...
funky0308 said:
Won't happen.
There are surveys for all Xperias and that never helped.
Buy carier free device and you'll get BL status yes.
Just hold your horses and check everything before you unlock your BL.
Sony has DRM keys which will be permanently deleted if you unlock bootloader.
If there's still no way to root device before unlocking bootloader that means there's no way to backup DRM keys...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In agreement with Funky here, do not unlock the bootloader until a locked bootloader root method is found.
funky0308 said:
Won't happen.
There are surveys for all Xperias and that never helped.
Buy carier free device and you'll get BL status yes.
Just hold your horses and check everything before you unlock your BL.
Sony has DRM keys which will be permanently deleted if you unlock bootloader.
If there's still no way to root device before unlocking bootloader that means there's no way to backup DRM keys...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean by "won't happen"?
As fornthis survey, its sole purpose is just a guide (nothing more than that) as to where you will most likely get a bootloader-unlockable device (for installing custom ROMs et cetera if you're willing to take the risk) and yes, whilst getting a SIM-free device is the best way to guarantee that (no s***, Sherlock), there are some carrier-based stores that MAY provide bootloader-unlockable Xperia handsets (I went into a Vodafone store one week ago to help sort out my brother-in-law's HTC one mini and after said issue was sorted, I admittedly pressed *#*#7378423#*#* into the Xperia Z2 and the M2 if I recall correctly - the former said no but the latter said yes), and as for "all these surveys haven't helped" part, I have to strongly disagree there for the most part, especially when I now know where to best get a Sony handset from after reading the Z2 survey thread but on the other hand, what may be helpful to me may not be helpful to you.
As for me in terms of what I am personally going to do in terms of actually purchasing a handset, I usually tend to wait before I feel that I am comfortable modding my device due to the reasons you have mentioned (being able to reverse system changes and being abke to modify your phone without any complications) and that I feel that the handset makers are not supporting the device well, in which I ended up installing OmniROM 4.4.x on my Samsung Galaxy S3 (GT-I9300) because of Samsung taking the p*** with their updates and giving the owners of the "baseline international version" of the S3 a big fat "f*** you" by not providing a Kitkat update, and therefore I agree with you when it comes to being patient before going down the modding route and I would suggest the same to the common modding folk here.
Really liked the mint silver colour so picked it up from O2 today:
- Location/Store: O2 - London (UK)
- SIM Lock Status: locked
- Bootloader Lock Status: No!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sadly it is locked. I have requested a SIM unlock code and going to try that, then flash a generic FTF to see if it changes to yes.
If that doesn't work then the phone is going back under the 14 day return policy and would mean I cannot have the green colour :crying:....well at least I can get copper from Carphone Warehouse.
fl4r3 said:
Really liked the mint silver colour so picked it up from O2 today:
- Location/Store: O2 - London (UK)
- SIM Lock Status: locked
- Bootloader Lock Status: No!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sadly it is locked. I have requested a SIM unlock code and going to try that, then flash a generic FTF to see if it changes to yes.
If that doesn't work then the phone is going back under the 14 day return policy and would mean I cannot have the green colour :crying:....well at least I can get copper from Carphone Warehouse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, unfortunately, from what I have read on here, simply asking for a SIM unlock code and flashing a generic FTF file will not change the "bootloader unlock status" flag, so if I were you, your best bet is to just go to Carphone Warehouse and get a handset from there, and tell O2 that you don't want the handset that is provided by them.
Yeah I know it is a long shot but there have been a few rare cases where it has worked (although the legitimacy is unclear).
Thought I'd give it a try before I return it as it is the only place to get the mint silver colour.
o2 uk unlock stutus=no
Origonally i got a z3 d6603 online with o2 UK, checked the bootloader unlock allowed status and it said no.
So that went straight back on the 14 day return policy.
Ended up getting a sim unlocked version from the catalogue people, very.co.uk.
Got a 10% off code for being a new customer, and i went through quidco for another 7% cashback.
All good now, bootloader can be unlocked.
Cant wait to get flashing when some roms start popping up.
My Z3 is D6653 android 4.4.4 build 23.0.A.2.108
i have unlock boot b4.. after than i was lock it back to restore back original ...but now i wan unlock back it not working d
just show me the error have rooted is that only can unlock one time???after lock back its not working any more??
O2 is sim locked and bootloader can't be unlocked.
If you request a sim unlock, you waive your 14 day return period. I remember asking O2 the same thing.
Then again the green z3 was worth more to me than this unlockable bootloader jazz.
killa78 said:
If you request a sim unlock, you waive your 14 day return period. I remember asking O2 the same thing.
Then again the green z3 was worth more to me than this unlockable bootloader jazz.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes they also do it free of charge if your in contract with them. However still can't unlock the bootloader.
I am about to buy an unwanted contract upgrade Z3 but it is locked to another network. If I unlock it would this mean the bootloader is unlocked or not?
I do not want to loose the DRM protected camera features and the sellers network is refusing to give him the unlock code until he has had the phone for 6 (!) months.
The SIM unlock code will not touch the bootloader so your DRM keys will still be intact.
fl4r3 said:
The SIM unlock code will not touch the bootloader so your DRM keys will still be intact.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And using one of the paid unlock code services online is possible with the Z3?
I was under the impression that newer phones could not be unlocked this way and had to be rooted.
Root has nothing to do with SIM lock.
Usually the code works the same way whether it is obtained from the operator or a separate online service. However there is normally a delay from when the device is released and when unlock codes from online services become available. So I cannot say if they have them available for the Z3 yet.
As long as you use one of the reputable online services you should be fine as they will only advertise it if it is available.
I was under the impression that newer phones could not be unlocked this way and had to be rooted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use SIM unlock codes on network locked phones straight from the shop - so no rooting or anything needs to be involved. You just insert a different SIM, then an option should come up to insert the SIM unlock code.
It gets more difficult to find exploits for rooting newer phones without unlocking the bootloader. But that is a separate issue.
Hope that helps.
You are confusing two different things.
If your phone is SIM locked, you'll only be able to use it under whatever company's network it is locked to. It doesn't make a difference whether it's rooted or not or whether the bootloader is unlocked or not.
You can probably unlock the SIM lock through a paid service (IMEI unlocking) although with newer phones is a little harder to find a service that will do it.
Look at several unlocking services (there are many online) to see if they can unlock that phone before you make the purchase.
Brilliant. Thanks for the help!
Anyone care to recommend a good online service to use?
The carrier will do it for free usually. Find someone who currently has a subscription
They said it would be 21 days before they would release the code for some reason. I've used a paid online service although even they ae saying 7 days.
finty said:
They said it would be 21 days before they would release the code for some reason. I've used a paid online service although even they ae saying 7 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Real delivery time for Sony codes from 3rd party service is 3-7 days. These 3rd party unlock codes come from manufacturer (Sony) and they support all Sony models. No matter if the model is just released etc. If you are using good supplier with history and your phone has at least 2 attempts left to type unlock code (is not hard locked) it's very safe process. Good luck.
Not asking for code
I have a brand new Z3 locked to T-Mobile.
When I insert my own sim, it does'nt ask for unlock code. It also says at the top of the notification bar that the phone is network locked and I can only make emergency calls.
Can you please help me on how to get the phone to ask for an unlock code so that I can enter one and unlock the phone.
Thank you.
Device unlock apk.
Do you have that in your app drawer?.
If you don't go look in the mods n apps section I just posted a link to the app you need. There is no way to make the t-mobile D6616 ask for an unlock code. At least no way I found. T-mobile r jerks.
Edit
Here's the link
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BwEKM70ewjHNQ01UWlNmRXJGbkE/view?usp=docslist_api
Sent from my D6616 using XDA Free mobile app
Dear imprezif,
I have the app and tried getting an unlock done through it. I get the message this device is not eligible for unlock, contact T-Mobile for device unlock eligibility.
You are right about T-Mobile though!
Thank you for your response and I will keep trying...
Work this app on z3 compact? ther is something like that for z3 compact? thanks for help...
Hi there. A few months ago a friend dropped my xperia z1s and I made an insurance claim for a new one (as the new model wasn't out yet and I wanted to keep same phone). However my new model has an issue with the vibrator and I'm looking to upgrade. Now I told myself that because of the locked bootloader I would buy direct from Sony next time around. However am I correct in assuming that I will not be able to take advantage of WiFi calling unless I purchase direct from T-Mobile? I would prefer to buy the z3 compact from sony, but if wifi calling is not an option and I have to purchase my own insurance I think I'd rather just deal with tmobile.
If I were to use my t-mobile jump promo to upgrade to the Z3... can it be easily rooted and recovery be flashed (on the latest version of android) today?
Thanks in advance for all of your assistance. Please limit information specifically to the t-mobile model.
If you buy the international Z3 or Z3 compact, you will not have WiFi calling
If you buy the T-Mobile Z3, there is currently no way to root, and the bootloader is not unlockable. It will come with Android 4.4.4
se1000 said:
If you buy the international Z3 or Z3 compact, you will not have WiFi calling
If you buy the T-Mobile Z3, there is currently no way to root, and the bootloader is not unlockable. It will come with Android 4.4.4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Z3 still hasn't received 4.4.4?
It comes with 4.4.4, I think he meant something else?
abhinav.tella said:
It comes with 4.4.4, I think he meant something else?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does he mean that you can't root the latest firmware or that it hasn't been rooted at all? I was under the impression the last trick I used to root my z1s cam was a method designed for the z3.
What do you think of the phone?
You cant root the D6616 yet as it has no bootloader unlock. I can live with that, Android has come a long way where root is not as important as it once was, well unless you want to try out new ROM and other mods of course.
As for the phone, its great. Not counting the 3 exchanges for cosmetic defects. I was going to get the LG G3 but after seeing the worse battery life (compared to my G2) and low contrast screen, it seemed like a downgrade, so I decided the Xperia Z3 was the only worthy succesor to my LG G2.
Can root now be obtained?/JUMP process
So I've heard that root can be obtained now on a T-mobile Z3. Is there anyone on here that has actually done this.
I had to make an insurance claim a while back and they send me a pre-owned z1s. Vibrate stops working periodically and the battery life isn't nearly as good. Apparently the previous owner didn't subscribe to the 80/40 regimen that I do with lithium batteries. So I'm looking to upgrade. Probably going to purchase the compact direct from sony too, but I want to be able to use wi-fi calling as well.
How does the jump process work btw?
POMF2K said:
So I've heard that root can be obtained now on a T-mobile Z3. Is there anyone on here that has actually done this.
I had to make an insurance claim a while back and they send me a pre-owned z1s. Vibrate stops working periodically and the battery life isn't nearly as good. Apparently the previous owner didn't subscribe to the 80/40 regimen that I do with lithium batteries. So I'm looking to upgrade. Probably going to purchase the compact direct from sony too, but I want to be able to use wi-fi calling as well.
How does the jump process work btw?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is currently no method available to successfully root the T-Mobile variant of the Z3 (D6616). The one root method available does NOT work on TMO Z3 unfortunately.
As for the JUMP process, the way it works is that you give T-Mobile back your old/current device and they forgive you for the balance you owe on it through your equipment installment payments. They then allow you to "JUMP" to a new device for practically nothing (you only pay the taxes on the full price of the phone) but the catch is you are starting a new set of payments for whatever phone you jump to. Also, you can activate jump twice a year.
If you are going to be purchasing your device directly from Sony, then you wont be able to use JUMP to get it, as you can only activate it if purchasing directly from T-Mobile.
cvsolidx17 said:
There is currently no method available to successfully root the T-Mobile variant of the Z3 (D6616). The one root method available does NOT work on TMO Z3 unfortunately.
As for the JUMP process, the way it works is that you give T-Mobile back your old/current device and they forgive you for the balance you owe on it through your equipment installment payments. They then allow you to "JUMP" to a new device for practically nothing (you only pay the taxes on the full price of the phone) but the catch is you are starting a new set of payments for whatever phone you jump to. Also, you can activate jump twice a year.
If you are going to be purchasing your device directly from Sony, then you wont be able to use JUMP to get it, as you can only activate it if purchasing directly from T-Mobile.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had heard this was now possible...
http://www.androidpolice.com/2015/0...available-for-phones-with-locked-bootloaders/
POMF2K said:
I had heard this was now possible...
http://www.androidpolice.com/2015/0...available-for-phones-with-locked-bootloaders/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not for the Z3v
The method you linked relies on key information gained from rooted devices (Via unlocking the bootloader) since the Z3v cannot unlock the bootloader the information is inaccessible to make a root method for locked bootloaders
Isn't the z3v the Verizon Wireless version? Also the article specifically refers to T-Mobile.
So, I have an Xperia Z3, D6616, stock, locked bootloader still, and I'm considering sim unlocking the device for use on AT&T. Bought it on craigslist. It's currently locked to T-Mobile. Most unlock websites say not to purchase the unlock code for the device if it is locked to T-Mobile due to an unlocking app that T-Mobile installs on handsets that prevents third party unlocking. See attached pictures. I'm an AT&T customer, so this is a bit of a pain for me.
Called T-Mobile, they will not unlock the device as it does not meet the requirements. I'm not a T-Mobile customer either, so there is no account history associated with this IMEI. I have a feeling that someone bought this device at a subsidized price, sold it new in box, and pocketed the cash. Now I have a fancy T-Mobile MP3 player and digital camera that won't play nice with my AT&T sim....
Has anyone successfully unlocked this device for use on another GSM carrier while originally being locked to T-Mobile without going through the carrier's unlocking process? If so, what website/service did you use? I'm considering selling this thing as it's a bit useless on my network thus far, being locked to another carrier and all.
Thanks in advance.
is this me being a bit daft, but could you not simply put an unbranded firmware on the device via ftf and simply unlock the device via a website?
henson0115 said:
is this me being a bit daft, but could you not simply put an unbranded firmware on the device via ftf and simply unlock the device via a website?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure if that's a possibility. There is no root for this device without unlocking the bootloader, which wipes the TA partition and causes you to lose the DRM keys and cripples camera functionality. I'm trying to avoid unlocking the bootloader for as long as possible, but if unlocking, rooting, and installing a custom ROM will assist in sim unlocking, it may be in my best interest to do so.
I'm trying to do a network unlock with a code and keeping the phone stock if at all possible, at least until a root method without unlocking the bootloader is found, if it ever is... I just need a way to get a code for unlocking WITHOUT going through T-Mobile.
you don't need root to flash an unbranded ftf., once done then simply use a website and buy the unlock code, with the tmobile firmware out of the way there shouldn't be any interference in terms of network unlock.
what i am saying is:
1: flash global unbranded firmware via flashtools with ftf
2: buy your network unlock code
3: enter code as no t-mobile firmware is available on the device anymore to interfere
i am not saying this is possible as i do not have a t-mobile - us device to test, but my vodafone branded z3 has had an unbranded firmware flashed by myself with no root.
i hope this helps clear up any confusion.
henson0115 said:
you don't need root to flash an unbranded ftf., once done then simply use a website and buy the unlock code, with the tmobile firmware out of the way there shouldn't be any interference in terms of network unlock.
what i am saying is:
1: flash global unbranded firmware via flashtools with ftf
2: buy your network unlock code
3: enter code as no t-mobile firmware is available on the device anymore to interfere
i am not saying this is possible as i do not have a t-mobile - us device to test, but my vodafone branded z3 has had an unbranded firmware flashed by myself with no root.
i hope this helps clear up any confusion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I may try this tonight.
If I flash another firmware with flashtool, can I return to stock after unlocking without root access?
Rooting and/or unlocking the bootloader or flashing a custom rom or a different firmware has absolutely nothing to do with SIM lock.
If you try and sim unlock by doing any of that you are wasting your time.
Best bet is to go to your carrier and ask them to sim unlock it
gregbradley said:
Rooting and/or unlocking the bootloader or flashing a custom rom or a different firmware has absolutely nothing to do with SIM lock.
If you try and sim unlock by doing any of that you are wasting your time.
Best bet is to go to your carrier and ask them to sim unlock it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, that has been my experiences in the past. The carrier always did it for me. But T-Mobile will not unlock this device as it does not meet eligibility requirements, and the unlock websites say not to buy a code for a T-Mobile US locked Z3. I need it unlocked for use on AT&T. I remember unlocking HTC devices with SuperCID and unlocking Samsung devices with dialer codes. Anything like that for the Sony side of the house? this will be my first Sony phone.
HORiZUN said:
Yeah, that has been my experiences in the past. The carrier always did it for me. But T-Mobile will not unlock this device as it does not meet eligibility requirements, and the unlock websites say not to buy a code for a T-Mobile US locked Z3. I need it unlocked for use on AT&T. I remember unlocking HTC devices with SuperCID and unlocking Samsung devices with dialer codes. Anything like that for the Sony side of the house? this will be my first Sony phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not that I know of. In the UK you can get any phone sim unlocked on any market stall in a few minutes for a fiver. Its not really to do with the phone but the carrier and the laws you have over the pond.
Simply try a websites unlock, I do not believe T-Mobile can block carrier unlocks. Who has told you otherwise?
See the attachments in the OP. The unlocking websites are saying not to purchase the codes if you have a T-Mobile US locked Z3. I don't want to waste $40, especially when there are no refunds, and want to know if anyone has successfully unlocked with a website and NOT the carrier.
D6616 has an NOT unlockable bootloader, so that method is a no-go.
If it was on EIP and they sold it, the phone may be blacklisted by T-Mobile already
I don't believe you can flash a different version firmware, for multiple reasons, one of which is because it's a D6616 and not a D6603
The T-Mobile SIM unlock tool does work if all conditions are met.
Good luck OP, I think you might have a difficult time with this one
se1000 said:
D6616 has an unlockable bootloader, so that method is a no-go.
If it was on EIP and they sold it, the phone may be blacklisted by T-Mobile already
I don't believe you can flash a different version firmware, for multiple reasons, one of which is because it's a D6616 and not a D6603
The T-Mobile SIM unlock tool does work if all conditions are met.
Good luck OP, I think you might have a difficult time with this one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again, the bootloader status has nothing to do with SIM lock.
Flashing another firmware will also not effect sim lock.
I'm seriously considering selling this device and going for another bootloader unlockable handset due to this unlock headache. T-Mobile is no help for unlocking this IMEI.
gregbradley said:
Again, the bootloader status has nothing to do with SIM lock.
Flashing another firmware will also not effect sim lock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the first line, didn't mean to get that wrong. Definitely agree that bootloader unlock and SIM unlock have nothing to do with each other.
Called T-Mobile again, tried to unlock. No account number to tie unlock request to since I use At&t as a carrier. They recommend I call Sony directly and ask for an unlock. I did, Sony told me to contact the carrier again. I do, and have the T-Mobile rep call Sony guys on a three way call. I explain that I purchased the device on craigslist, not a T-Mobile account holder, I'm an active duty military member, phone was several hundred dollars, I didn't know... boohoo, I'm dumb, I should have purchased from Sony, No moneys to get a new phone since this was so expensive, etc. Sad poor me story, you know.
Sat on hold for a bit, but Sony caved and said they would attempt a remote unlock via code, but it would be between 1-3 days and the reply will be via email. Time will tell, now. Just waiting to see what happens. I hope it works. I had to have the situation escalated to the third level of supervisors to get this far...
sounds like good news, if that fails, you could ask someone you no on T-MOBILE or a family member to give them a ring and pretend its there phone, should also do the trick
That's a good idea!! Thanks for that. I'll find someone at work who has T-Mobile and go that route if I need to.
any updates.. i badly need my T mobile Xperia Z3 to be get it unlocked...
Sadly, there is no update. T-Mobile will not unlock the device unless I use it on their network for 45 days, ahve an account in good standing, etc. This isn't going to happen, as I am an AT&T subscriber. I have the Z3 listed for sale on craigslist. Awaiting a sale or trade. If anyone wants to swap phones for a still in the box T-Mobile Z3, let me know. Looking for an S5, G3, or Nexus 6. Gsm variants only. Too bad, cause I really like the Z3. I would keep it if I could sim unlock.
Is the unlocking app based off the Sim card? Cause I bought my tmo Z3 3 days ago. Used my Sim from my moto x. After I got everything set up I tried the permanent unlock which was successful.
So for a lot of the phones the option for unlocking the bootloader comes after you get your sim-unlocked from carrier, currently I have a sim locked D6616 on T-Mobile and dialing *#*#7378423#*# gives bootloader unlock allowed : no. I can use the phone on T-Mobile network for 40 days to get it sim-unlocked, would that trigger bootloader unlock allowed : yes for Xperia Z3 D6616?
Thank you
ddvche said:
So for a lot of the phones the option for unlocking the bootloader comes after you get your sim-unlocked from carrier, currently I have a sim locked D6616 on T-Mobile and dialing *#*#7378423#*# gives bootloader unlock allowed : no. I can use the phone on T-Mobile network for 40 days to get it sim-unlocked, would that trigger bootloader unlock allowed : yes for Xperia Z3 D6616?
Thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My understanding is: No.
I've had mine for 7+ years and nothing changed. You can get root, but the bootloader is locked.
Obviously, unless they have some hardware stuff going on, there is always the possibility to unlock it, either through cracking things or a release of keys etc at some point, but given this phone is almost 8 years old, TMo doesn't care, and Sony Mobile gives zero about the US market, the demand for unlocking is low.
I would love it if, given all of the vulnerabilities in Android discovered over the past 8 years, someone had found a way to crack it, but it seems like most have abandoned it. Not to mention batteries are kind of iffy at 8 years....
Though there is still a chance. I pulled mine out of storage the other day when I remembered it has a headphone jack and it's rooted, so I can tighten things down, plug it into a speaker, and have it run as a dedicated receiver for notifications. And now I'm browsing through XDA to see if anyone has cracked it. If I get a chunk of free time or am really trying to avoid something, I may physically open it up and see if there are any physical attack vectors, assuming someone hasn't already gone that route.
Though there may be a way to unlock the bootloader.... maybe?
Xperia Z3 (T-Mobile) D6616 Android 6.0 Not Found
Hi, I've Xperia Z3 (T-Mobile) D6616 running on Android 5.0. I would like to install Android 6 on it. I prefer to install Stock Rom of Android 6 On my Z3. Default :(, If there are a cool & good :D Custom ROM of Android 6. I was not able to root...
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