Database Info

[Q] T-Mobile LG Optimus F3 Forum?

Okay, so I know this phone doesn't exactly win the spec war, but it's awesome and would make a fantastic rooted phone. Unfortunately there isn't a forum here on XDA for the device (either because it's too new or there isn't a demand for it)
Do you guys think a forum will be made for this device? It'd be nice to at least have a place to say what root methods DON'T work (I've tried a few)
Thanks for the help, XDA rules!

I second this. I am planning on buying a new phone and after researching numerous phones out there based on my tastes and constraints, I think this phone works very well (another is Samsung Galaxy Exhibit 2). One flaw that I heard is the amount of storage in this phone is around 4gb. Without a way to put apps on an external SD card (which I believe would require a custom ROM), the storage would probably fill up pretty quickly. So it'll be great if XDA opened a forum for this phone.
As a side note if anyone can point to other devices that fit my needs I would be grateful:
- Less than 4.2" screen (preferably 4").
- Android only
I don't have any financial constraints or any favorite companies.
Thanks!

What root method did you find worked? Did you try framaroot? Also have you found any Roms?
Sent from my SPH-D710VMUB using Tapatalk 2

bbradf44 said:
What root method did you find worked? Did you try framaroot? Also have you found any Roms?
Sent from my SPH-D710VMUB using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used Motochopper, worked like a charm. make sure you have the LG Optimus f3 drivers on your computer.(found on LG website)

habitforming said:
I used Motochopper, worked like a charm. make sure you have the LG Optimus f3 drivers on your computer.(found on LG website)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ratified. Motochopper worked flawlessly for me as well.

richardpwnsner said:
Ratified. Motochopper worked flawlessly for me as well.[/QUOT
Anyone find a tethering ap that works?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

wolfu11 said:
richardpwnsner said:
Ratified. Motochopper worked flawlessly for me as well.[/QUOT
Anyone find a tethering ap that works?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do tethering apps need to be phone specific? I don't have data, but I'll let you know if I come across one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Bad news
I have created the recovery tree, and have created a recovery.img for this phone. ok now heres the bad news OUR lg optimus f3 has a stock 3.4 kernel with a locked bootloader. Even worse news is that 3.4 "locking" features a sha5 hash system for its image/partitions (recovery, boot, and bootloader). Even worse news there is no known (or atleast what i know or have heard) way to get around this. The phone will be forever locked until lg updates or allows said lock to be removed. I have flashed the recovery and have had no damage to my device but it just sticks at "unsecure recovery" and does a hard reset (factory restore) every time i try to play with it which is a huge flaw if you ask me.
I have hexedited the bootloader and found that there is indeed "juicy" strings within that may tell to a future unlock these strings being
-Device UnLock!, so Boot Success!!
-oem unlock
-ERROR: Could not do normal boot. Reverting to fastboot mode
Also these strings could just be defualt with all lg bootloaders meaning....there is no hope.
My phone is without a soul and I will never be buy lg again.
If anyone is able to get into fastboot
1. PM ME
2. run : fastboot oem unlock
Again root for this phone works great as long as you dont touch recovery, bootloader, or boot partitions

inyourface09 said:
I have created the recovery tree, and have created a recovery.img for this phone. ok now heres the bad news OUR lg optimus f3 has a stock 3.4 kernel with a locked bootloader. Even worse news is that 3.4 "locking" features a sha5 hash system for its image/partitions (recovery, boot, and bootloader). Even worse news there is no known (or atleast what i know or have heard) way to get around this. The phone will be forever locked until lg updates or allows said lock to be removed. I have flashed the recovery and have had no damage to my device but it just sticks at "unsecure recovery" and does a hard reset (factory restore) every time i try to play with it which is a huge flaw if you ask me.
I have hexedited the bootloader and found that there is indeed "juicy" strings within that may tell to a future unlock these strings being
-Device UnLock!, so Boot Success!!
-oem unlock
-ERROR: Could not do normal boot. Reverting to fastboot mode
Also these strings could just be defualt with all lg bootloaders meaning....there is no hope.
My phone is without a soul and I will never be buy lg again.
If anyone is able to get into fastboot
1. PM ME
2. run : fastboot oem unlock
Again root for this phone works great as long as you dont touch recovery, bootloader, or boot partitions
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ugh. Thanks for the work. This is bad news indeed. I'll keep poking around and let you know if I find anything.

richardpwnsner said:
Ugh. Thanks for the work. This is bad news indeed. I'll keep poking around and let you know if I find anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Out of curiosity, any chance Loki would work? I'd be willing to give it a go if there's a decent chance—still within the 14 day exchange window .

Will motochopper work on any carrier version of this phone? Thanks!

jjfad said:
Will motochopper work on any carrier version of this phone? Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've seen confirmations on three carriers (can't remember which ones off the top of my head, sorry [edit-well, T-Mobile and Virgin Mobile come to mind now]), so I'd assume the answer is yes. Regardless, I have yet to see anyone complain about adverse affects, so no reason not to try (though, grain of salt—I'm brand new to android).

For anyone that has this, how are the antennas on this phone?
I just ordered one from tmo and am hoping to get better reception at my house than from my Samsung or HTC.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

Steve5400 said:
For anyone that has this, how are the antennas on this phone?
I just ordered one from tmo and am hoping to get better reception at my house than from my Samsung or HTC.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They seem better and with WIFI calling built in the phone hasn't skipped a beat.

Check my way!
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2420178&highlight=rooting+lg+optimus+f3
I failed rooting my phone with Windows system, maybe cause I'm not familiar with the process or I was just to lazy, but it does work if you use motochopper. Try looking it up youtube. You could try my method, it should work on Jellybean 4.1.2!

richardpwnsner said:
Out of curiosity, any chance Loki would work? I'd be willing to give it a go if there's a decent chance—still within the 14 day exchange window .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
BAHAHA me to man i think im down to 10 days. Im trying to get some attention but i need someone who knows little endian, and their way around bootloaders. Id be willing to donate to someone who can help me out, also to support the other 3 variants (if the aboot differs).
I have a recovery created also and a device tree (needs gpio support for kernel).
And to awnser your question, yes loki will work IF i can get the needed values so that when recovery/boot is read into memory that it overwrites the security check feature in aboot. If the wrong values are give you may end up with a brick (very slim chance)

My return window just closed . If it helps, you can pull the open source from LG's website and merge it with the android source. I also discovered an even easier solution: set up the LG Sync application, and select the "upgrade recovery option". Then, when it begins downloading, remove your phone, set Windows (or your relevant OS) to show hidden files and folders, and go the the Program Data folder. There should be something like "PHONEAX" under the LG Electronics folder that will contain the full stock kdz file when the download is complete.
It's really kind of surprising that there's absolutely no dev love out there for the F3. I suppose it's because the phone is entry level, but it's really not that bad but for the storage. I got it as a gift, so no complaints here—of course, if anyone wants to donate a Note or Galaxy gratis, I suppose I'd be willing to switch .

I had a Galaxy S4 from Verizon. I switched to T-Mobile Because believe it or not the network is stronger where I work. Also, there pricing on plans cannot be beat. But, I digress. The Galaxy S4 being a Verizon device never really functioned the way it was supposed to on T-Mobiles network. It was unlocked however was still useless for 4G LTE and while I could do better than edge in some places, those places were few and far between. I started to assess what it is I actually used my phone for these days. I'm not into modding with custom ROMS and kernels anymore and I'm not much of a multi-tasker either so I decided that I did not need the super power device anymore. The specs on this phone are perfect for what I need my phone to do. Its been a long time since I have gone beyond rooting to remove bloat and tether. I agree that the storage on this sucks. I don't understand why there are any devices anymore that come with less than 32gb internal. storage is the cheapest thing that can be added to a device and its not as though it uses much physical space. other than the storage I will say that I am impressed with the quality of this device and I don't know that I would even put this as low as "entry level device." I would say its more of a mid-grade device. I am also happy with the reception on this device and its nice to have a compact phone again that actually fits comfortably in my hand and on my belt.

yutzyscott said:
I had a Galaxy S4 from Verizon. I switched to T-Mobile Because believe it or not the network is stronger where I work. Also, there pricing on plans cannot be beat. But, I digress. The Galaxy S4 being a Verizon device never really functioned the way it was supposed to on T-Mobiles network. It was unlocked however was still useless for 4G LTE and while I could do better than edge in some places, those places were few and far between. I started to assess what it is I actually used my phone for these days. I'm not into modding with custom ROMS and kernels anymore and I'm not much of a multi-tasker either so I decided that I did not need the super power device anymore. The specs on this phone are perfect for what I need my phone to do. Its been a long time since I have gone beyond rooting to remove bloat and tether. I agree that the storage on this sucks. I don't understand why there are any devices anymore that come with less than 32gb internal. storage is the cheapest thing that can be added to a device and its not as though it uses much physical space. other than the storage I will say that I am impressed with the quality of this device and I don't know that I would even put this as low as "entry level device." I would say its more of a mid-grade device. I am also happy with the reception on this device and its nice to have a compact phone again that actually fits comfortably in my hand and on my belt.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No argument here. I like it well enough, but I'm (1) a closet geek; and (2) a heavy multitasker, so given the option I'd prefer something with more screen space (I just graduated from law school, so I do a lot of reading on the go). As a phone, however, you really couldn't ask for more—the size otherwise pretty much perfect, it's relatively snappy with most applications, and once debloated the stock launcher is pretty good.
That being said, the second I see a safe way to deal with the bootloader pop up, I'm diving in, no question .

Decided to share my home screens.
Sent from my LG-P659 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

What does one need to do to root a Verizon Note 5? Why hasn't it been rooted yet?

Hello friends,
I'm in the same boat as many of you -- I purchased several Note 5's new from Verizon and then learned that they are not readily rootable....which prevents me from using their full functionality. Irritating.
I have a decent amount of experience with software development/reverse engineering/breaking things/making things work...but I've never messed around with phone firmware before. Usually I connect directly to the hardware chips via JTAG or similar to dump/upload the modified images. I don't really want to crack these sealed phones open though... surely there must be a way to dump/image the phone via the data port? I've read that Note 5 for other carriers are rootable, so how does dumping/uploading bins work for them? What is different about Verizon's model? Are they requiring digitally signed bins? Also I've seen a few people mention Knox....if Knox is tripped does it blow a fuse or can it be reset?
Thx
A

Samsung Knox gets tripped and effectively bricks the device the second it detects root. It blows a fuse. Dead phone.

If you have to ask this question then rooting is not something you need! =D Coming from rooting every phone for the past 5 years, I haven't had a need to root this phone. Granted there are a few things NOT working because of verizon nit picking hsit in the build. Fonts not working for one, nothing that is really a deal breaker. I def dont miss the flashing of builds every week/month, keeping things updated and waiting on developers. Google is smart enough to listen to its consumers and for the most part every new build of android has vast improvements and functionality.. rooting for the most part will be so that you can control the hardware and do whatever you want with your phone, which I believe that is how it should be...i ve stuck with verizon because of the quality of service they provide. Awesome speeds, damn near accessible everywhere, havent had a dropped call in YEARS. But from a tech standpoint, they are a bit ridiculous when it comes to their hardware. I hope they release a line of phones that are rootable and still keep a "protected" option for those who dont want phones that can be tampered with by rooting, security issues, etc.. who knows.. but i wouldnt hold your breath waiting on root for this phone.. best bet is the note 7 coming out and hope a root is found.. but, I imagine its going to just get harder and harder for developers with encryption and new securities..

DaRkL3AD3R said:
Samsung Knox gets tripped and effectively bricks the device the second it detects root. It blows a fuse. Dead phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah it doesn't brick the phone! That's just to scare the crap out of people and make them not even want to risk it period!
---------- Post added at 02:23 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:17 PM ----------
ars0n said:
If you have to ask this question then rooting is not something you need! =D Coming from rooting every phone for the past 5 years, I haven't had a need to root this phone. Granted there are a few things NOT working because of verizon nit picking hsit in the build. Fonts not working for one, nothing that is really a deal breaker. I def dont miss the flashing of builds every week/month, keeping things updated and waiting on developers. Google is smart enough to listen to its consumers and for the most part every new build of android has vast improvements and functionality.. rooting for the most part will be so that you can control the hardware and do whatever you want with your phone, which I believe that is how it should be...i ve stuck with verizon because of the quality of service they provide. Awesome speeds, damn near accessible everywhere, havent had a dropped call in YEARS. But from a tech standpoint, they are a bit ridiculous when it comes to their hardware. I hope they release a line of phones that are rootable and still keep a "protected" option for those who dont want phones that can be tampered with by rooting, security issues, etc.. who knows.. but i wouldnt hold your breath waiting on root for this phone.. best bet is the note 7 coming out and hope a root is found.. but, I imagine its going to just get harder and harder for developers with encryption and new securities..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol.. I was gonna say hmm, what should one do... HmMmm ... How about read around the the Verizon thread?! Because all those questions have already been answered!

ars0n said:
If you have to ask this question then rooting is not something you need! =D Coming from rooting every phone for the past 5 years, I haven't had a need to root this phone. Granted there are a few things NOT working because of Verizon nit picking hsit in the build. Fonts not working for one, nothing that is really a deal breaker. I def don't miss the flashing of builds every week/month, keeping things updated and waiting on developers. Google is smart enough to listen to its consumers and for the most part every new build of android has vast improvements and functionality.. rooting for the most part will be so that you can control the hardware and do whatever you want with your phone, which I believe that is how it should be...i've stuck with Verizon because of the quality of service they provide. Awesome speeds, damn near accessible everywhere, haven't had a dropped call in YEARS. But from a tech standpoint, they are a bit ridiculous when it comes to their hardware. I hope they release a line of phones that are rootable and still keep a "protected" option for those who don't want phones that can be tampered with by rooting, security issues, etc.. who knows.. but i wouldn't hold your breath waiting on root for this phone.. best bet is the note 7 coming out and hope a root is found.. but, I imagine its going to just get harder and harder for developers with encryption and new securities..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I understand and agree about the flashing and dealing with the bugs on new roms. All I want is the ability to delete apps I don't want. I know debloaters are out there and they work and that's great and thanks to their developers. I think we are owned the freedom to delete what we don't want. It's like the cable companies sticking us with shows we never want or watch.

pbman1953 said:
I understand and agree about the flashing and dealing with the bugs on new roms. All I want is the ability to delete apps I don't want. I know debloaters are out there and they work and that's great and thanks to their developers. I think we are owned the freedom to delete what we don't want. It's like the cable companies sticking us with shows we never want or watch.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used to feel that way. I used to root every phone I got (if I could) just so I could use Titanium backup to first disable apps and then if I had no problems, uninstall them. Bu with my Note 5 I've concluded it would be a waste of time, even if I could do it. I use Package Disabler Pro (as do many on this forum) and no, it doesn't actually delete apps. They are still there taking up space. but they don't run and unless you are critically short of space, the actual space they consume is minimal. My only complaint against Pakcage Disabler is that I wish it worked on my Asus tablet. but alas, it only woks on Samsung devices.

ratman6161 said:
I used to feel that way. I used to root every phone I got (if I could) just so I could use Titanium backup to first disable apps and then if I had no problems, uninstall them. Bu with my Note 5 I've concluded it would be a waste of time, even if I could do it. I use Package Disabler Pro (as do many on this forum) and no, it doesn't actually delete apps. They are still there taking up space. but they don't run and unless you are critically short of space, the actual space they consume is minimal. My only complaint against Pakcage Disabler is that I wish it worked on my Asus tablet. but alas, it only woks on Samsung devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone compared Package Disabler to Debloater?

Yeah, Package Disabler is the way to go (IMO). You don't need a computer as with Debloater. Don't get me wrong, Debloater is great, but it's nice being able to disable apps on the go. Not to mention, Package Disabler allows you to export your lists of disabled apps to an XML file, so you can simply import the list back if you need to (say, after a factory reset). Just my thoughts.
Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

So I guess both are good. I wish there am was a place or apply tell you if you needed certain apps or not.

pbman1953 said:
So I guess both are good. I wish there am was a place or apply tell you if you needed certain apps or not.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone Hurd about rooting on the Verizon note 5 I've been reading and can't find much, is it possible to root yet. Sorry if it's been asked I'm completely new to Verizon

[email protected] said:
Has anyone Hurd about rooting on the Verizon note 5 I've been reading and can't find much, is it possible to root yet. Sorry if it's been asked I'm completely new to Verizon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not rooted yet. There is something in the works, but nothing yet. We haven't given up yet.

[email protected] said:
Has anyone Hurd about rooting on the Verizon note 5 I've been reading and can't find much, is it possible to root yet. Sorry if it's been asked I'm completely new to Verizon
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no root buddy if ure on mm mm requires bootloader unlock to root and between att and verizon they have the tightest locked bootloader of them all
i got rid of my note 5 but it was the first device that wasnt make or break over root like other posters said get s package disabler and ure good

TheMadScientist420 said:
no root buddy if ure on mm mm requires bootloader unlock to root and between att and verizon they have the tightest locked bootloader of them all
i got rid of my note 5 but it was the first device that wasnt make or break over root like other posters said get s package disabler and ure good
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's a package disabler

[email protected] said:
What's a package disabler
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it disables all the bloatware on ure note 5 even without root saves loads of battery and speeds up the device in my opinion
this one works by being a device administrator and it lets u disable tons more stuff than in the standard application manager on the device

TheMadScientist420 said:
it disables all the bloatware on ure note 5 even without root saves loads of battery and speeds up the device in my opinion
this one works by being a device administrator and it lets u disable tons more stuff than in the standard application manager on the device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you point me in the right direction to get it, and will that allow me to root the phone

[email protected] said:
Could you point me in the right direction to get it, and will that allow me to root the phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
there is no root for the verizon version yet things always change if ure looking to root find another device.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct...m6g1sybczeFvN8Nq0-ekxg&bvm=bv.144224172,d.eWE
this is where ive always gotten is from

TheMadScientist420 said:
there is no root for the verizon version yet things always change if ure looking to root find another device.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct...m6g1sybczeFvN8Nq0-ekxg&bvm=bv.144224172,d.eWE
this is where ive always gotten is from
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you ill try it out

I soft bricked my Note 5 and then had problems flashing with ODIN. After I was able to flash though, the screen briefly showed an unlocked padlock. Is that typical? Is the bootloader rendered insecure when you upgrade for a brief window?

YA 4.4.2 Bootloader Discussion

Hey there remaining Verizon S3 users!
Coming from my favorite device the T959V this has been quite a trip. This device's bootloader is seemingly impossible to unlock on the 4.4.2 NE1 firmware.
I've got a slightly modified Superlite rom rolling with SafeStrap already strapped. And it is great to say the least. Added some initd and utilities. Evie launcher is pretty nice btw- recommend a try :good:
However. I still really want this thing to be unlocked. The T959V has multiple working Fro, GB, ICS, JB, KK, L, M, AND Nougat ROMS. Totally different devices yes but-- even the newer S4-S6 have cracked loaders now.
There has to be a special way to change this things firmware.
Right now I have 2 ideas to throw out to the wind-
1- Would be that there could be a way to trick the device into thinking it is receiving a new update. Maybe somehow with CSC or something. Also I saw a file named authorized.xml and was reading through to find traces of knox. Would unauthorizing knox strings somehow render it useless?
2- I was reading a suggested post about AVB boots and how they can be resigned on devices such as the Google Pixel and allows the newer patches to still install. Including what was described as a forced re-sign method.
--- Could we somehow resign the bootloader on our device so as to gain control of it? Has anybody tried anything like this since around 2015?
I'll gladly talk about all of this more whenever I feel like popping on- and atm I have no web besides this service. :silly: so no DOS updates and no shiny linux for now.
Gladly tell me that it is "impossible" but I'm not asking that. I'm trying to add some ideas to possibly do the impossible.
Edit: This seems to be an interesting lead on emmc cracking this device. It's probably why people in other threads were in search of a "dev" edition.
http://forum.gsmhosting.com/vbb/f777/unlock-samsung-devices-bootloader-emmc-backdoor-2142981/

graycow9 said:
Hey there remaining Verizon S3 users!
Coming from my favorite device the T959V this has been quite a trip. This device's bootloader is seemingly impossible to unlock on the 4.4.2 NE1 firmware.
I've got a slightly modified Superlite rom rolling with SafeStrap already strapped. And it is great to say the least. Added some initd and utilities. Evie launcher is pretty nice btw- recommend a try :good:
However. I still really want this thing to be unlocked. The T959V has multiple working Fro, GB, ICS, JB, KK, L, M, AND Nougat ROMS. Totally different devices yes but-- even the newer S4-S6 have cracked loaders now.
There has to be a special way to change this things firmware.
Right now I have 2 ideas to throw out to the wind-
1- Would be that there could be a way to trick the device into thinking it is receiving a new update. Maybe somehow with CSC or something. Also I saw a file named authorized.xml and was reading through to find traces of knox. Would unauthorizing knox strings somehow render it useless?
2- I was reading a suggested post about AVB boots and how they can be resigned on devices such as the Google Pixel and allows the newer patches to still install. Including what was described as a forced re-sign method.
--- Could we somehow resign the bootloader on our device so as to gain control of it? Has anybody tried anything like this since around 2015?
I'll gladly talk about all of this more whenever I feel like popping on- and atm I have no web besides this service. :silly: so no DOS updates and no shiny linux for now.
Gladly tell me that it is "impossible" but I'm not asking that. I'm trying to add some ideas to possibly do the impossible.
Edit: This seems to be an interesting lead on emmc cracking this device. It's probably why people in other threads were in search of a "dev" edition.
http://forum.gsmhosting.com/vbb/f777/unlock-samsung-devices-bootloader-emmc-backdoor-2142981/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been around this and many many other forums for years now. If there was an unlock method it would of been found years ago. Devs have long moved on from the old S3. I still have my S3 lying around, bootloader unlocked but I really haven't messed around with it for quite a long time now
And yes the dev edition would of been nice had someone actually had one, it would of of course made it easier to crack the bootloader option maybe. I don't know much about the ins and outs of the device but I know many are permanently locked and will probably never be unlocked.
As far as certain other Samsung devices being unlocked those are far and few between. VZW got smart and started just locking them from the start. This is a huge reason why I left Verizon. The S3 was my last device on big red. I since have had a Nexus 5 and 6 and now a oneplus 3t. I really don't like locked devices and the ability to unlock them and customize them just intrigues me to no end. Good luck however in finding something that may work, but I highly doubt it will ever be cracked
Sent from my OnePlus 3T

Ya I expected your negatude Shapes. Already seen that you have been searching but it isn't just some application you run. It's an unknown exploit that I'm sure exists. There are exploits right now that can be considered viral potentially exploiting my device as we speak. Maybe not granted my semi-precautious take on things.
Quadrooter and dirty cow could be used to exploit the S3 and gain access to a quoted "all" physical memory. So I find it hard to believe that things can't work in our favor.
Being open minded here. After all, this is technically hacking your own device. Which--
Got me thinking the other day, becausr I was setting up my laptop proper- could we run a nix distro and poke through the bootloader's parameters via exploitation tools? Referencing Kali or it's elder BTrack. But I think it is possible and I just haven't gotten around this loop mounting issue.
To be clear, running a distro ON the device. My flat is already running square.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA-Developers Legacy app

Also a purposely separate post- I'm building a ROM for this locked firmware and the goal is to have some specific updated apps and yet trim it nicely so as to save space and RAM it's mostly stock style-wise but it'd be cool to re-theme it. I haven't gotten things deodexed yet- being I haven't gotten my apktools working proper yet.
Is there anybody left to be interested in this? I haven't posted anything I've made before- usually just keep them lying around for emergency flashes.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using XDA-Developers Legacy app

graycow9 said:
Ya I expected your negatude Shapes. Already seen that you have been searching but it isn't just some application you run. It's an unknown exploit that I'm sure exists. There are exploits right now that can be considered viral potentially exploiting my device as we speak. Maybe not granted my semi-precautious take on things.
Quadrooter and dirty cow could be used to exploit the S3 and gain access to a quoted "all" physical memory. So I find it hard to believe that things can't work in our favor.
Being open minded here. After all, this is technically hacking your own device. Which--
Got me thinking the other day, becausr I was setting up my laptop proper- could we run a nix distro and poke through the bootloader's parameters via exploitation tools? Referencing Kali or it's elder BTrack. But I think it is possible and I just haven't gotten around this loop mounting issue.
To be clear, running a distro ON the device. My flat is already running square.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think shapes was trying to act negative at all, just stating the obvious. Nobody is going to try to unlock the Verizon S3, it's pretty much a dead end.
The unlock method used on the S5 will most likely work on this phone, but we need a developer CID to rewrite to the emmc as the series chip used on the S3 likely has the same vulnerability. This is what happened on the S5.
If you read some of the other posts (sounds like you have), we looked for an S3 developer edition but had no luck in tracking one down. For one, it's an incredibly old device. Secondly, you'd have to be semi retarded to purchase one as the original unlock method was around before the developer edition was released.
So yes, if you can find a developer S3 this will likely be an unlock method. It tricks the S3 into thinking it's a developer phone and unlocks the bootloader if the method to write it works the same as in the S5.
As for your questions,
1. I think you're underestimating the amount of security that goes into the bootloader itself. If you want to learn a lot about Android security in general, in the Android security discussion section located under general forums, there's tons of info regarding how complex this all is. But basically, in order to send an update patch, it needs to be signed (you can't just fake the signature) and it must agree with the current bootloader. The way the bootloader is written, it simply won't allow a reversion back to earlier versions or it'll abort the boot.
An easier way to think of this is understanding that the changes made are preinstalled before the actual boot. There's no way for us to change this through normal methods as the emmc has to be written to directly. There is no way to do this from download or recovery mode. Wouldn't matter if you flashed it or used and update package, they are essentially the same thing.
So the only way to actually change the bootloader is to write to the emmc directly through use of the JTAG port. This changes the code of the entire bootloader before the boot and the phone will boot up with any version of the S3 bootloader you write.
2. I think I kind of answered that?
Hope it's clear.

BadUsername said:
I don't think shapes was trying to act negative at all, just stating the obvious. Nobody is going to try to unlock the Verizon S3, it's pretty much a dead end.
The unlock method used on the S5 will most likely work on this phone, but we need a developer CID to rewrite to the emmc as the series chip used on the S3 likely has the same vulnerability. This is what happened on the S5.
If you read some of the other posts (sounds like you have), we looked for an S3 developer edition but had no luck in tracking one down. For one, it's an incredibly old device. Secondly, you'd have to be semi retarded to purchase one as the original unlock method was around before the developer edition was released.
So yes, if you can find a developer S3 this will likely be an unlock method. It tricks the S3 into thinking it's a developer phone and unlocks the bootloader if the method to write it works the same as in the S5.
As for your questions,
1. I think you're underestimating the amount of security that goes into the bootloader itself. If you want to learn a lot about Android security in general, in the Android security discussion section located under general forums, there's tons of info regarding how complex this all is. But basically, in order to send an update patch, it needs to be signed (you can't just fake the signature) and it must agree with the current bootloader. The way the bootloader is written, it simply won't allow a reversion back to earlier versions or it'll abort the boot.
An easier way to think of this is understanding that the changes made are preinstalled before the actual boot. There's no way for us to change this through normal methods as the emmc has to be written to directly. There is no way to do this from download or recovery mode. Wouldn't matter if you flashed it or used and update package, they are essentially the same thing.
So the only way to actually change the bootloader is to write to the emmc directly through use of the JTAG port. This changes the code of the entire bootloader before the boot and the phone will boot up with any version of the S3 bootloader you write.
2. I think I kind of answered that?
Hope it's clear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Truthfully after being around the forums for as long as I have I'm really surprised there is any interest in unlocking this device at this point in time. There are just so many other options and unlocked vzw s3s are not that hard to come by.
And I wasn't being negative it's about being realistic. Thanks for sticking up for me brother
Sent from my OnePlus 3T

Are there any updates to this by any chance, I am interested :C

any hope?

Should I unlock bootloader?

I am currently on a 24 month contract have around 14 or 13 months left and plan on finishing the contract of by the end of the year, the question is, should I unlock the bootloader for root, roms etc.?

LukeyWolf said:
I am currently on a 24 month contract have around 14 or 13 months left and plan on finishing the contract of by the end of the year, the question is, should I unlock the bootloader for root, roms etc.?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in a similar position, half way through my 24 month contract with an eye what to get next and looking at ways to improve my device. The only reason I would want to unlock the bootloader, get root access etc. is to increase the volume of the speakers and to allow me to use a controller in PUBG! The stock experience has been pretty good for me and with security patches coming as quickly as on the Pixel devices I am not that bothered
The thought of having to sideload updates and muck about with DRM keys and such is just not worth it for slightly louder speakers and being able to cheat at PUBG.

bombdog said:
I'm in a similar position, half way through my 24 month contract with an eye what to get next and looking at ways to improve my device. The only reason I would want to unlock the bootloader, get root access etc. is to increase the volume of the speakers and to allow me to use a controller in PUBG! The stock experience has been pretty good for me and with security patches coming as quickly as on the Pixel devices I am not that bothered
The thought of having to sideload updates and muck about with DRM keys and such is just not worth it for slightly louder speakers and being able to cheat at PUBG.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, just wish Sony didn't wipe DRM keys whenever you unlocked the bootloader, I won't even bother with it anyway, I've survived this long without root or custom roms so I'm fine without

LukeyWolf said:
I am currently on a 24 month contract have around 14 or 13 months left and plan on finishing the contract of by the end of the year, the question is, should I unlock the bootloader for root, roms etc.?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unlocking the bootloader effectively breaks your phone for forever. Luckily you can apply a fix to restore the higher functions.
The XDA Xperia threads are littered with cries for help from folk who can't get the fix proccess completed and have broken thier cameras.
You need to be aware that each time there is a firmware update, you'll need to embark on a whole new round of multiple flashes for firmware/kernel/fix. You're also at the mercy of a Dev who may or may not release the latest firmware fix.
Previously the reasons I had for rooting my phone were apearence and power saving. But you can tweak the apearence with Andromeda to get Substratum working.
The battery on these devices is brilliant out of the box. Having tried rooted and non rooted, the difference in savings in battery is minimal, just a few percent.
Add to that the danger that whatever banking/games you run will have a fit at the phone being rooted, I'd say it's not worth the effort.

we unlock the bootloader mainly because
1. to gain root access
2. debloat the stockrom
however both actions will make our device OPEN for security threats and you have to look after device more since anyone can snatch and extract your personal data! so if you are mentally prepared for your XZP to become MORE DEPENDENT on you! (for updates and security threats) then yes please go ahead and unlock your bootloader
if it was me?
I will unlock my bootloader THE NEXT DAY I GET this DEVICE!
I am control freak and cannot live my life in Bloated stockrom where
1. so many apps cannot be disabled
2. whatsapp cannot send <16mb files
3. Lucky patcher cannot be run
4. adaway cannot do its magic
5. MixerPath.xml file cannot be MODDED for HIGH VOLUMES /system/etc
6. KCAL cannot be FLASHED
7. CFLUMIN unable to work properly for better colors
8. I cannot DISABLE SONY CONTACTS and REPLACE IT WITH GOOGLE CONTACTS ( on unrooted phone BOTH will be RUnning)
9. Try Different KERNELS for fun
---------- Post added at 10:17 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:15 AM ----------
Didgesteve said:
Unlocking the bootloader effectively breaks your phone for forever. Luckily you can apply a fix to restore the higher functions.
The XDA Xperia threads are littered with cries for help from folk who can't get the fix proccess completed and have broken thier cameras.
You need to be aware that each time there is a firmware update, you'll need to embark on a whole new round of multiple flashes for firmware/kernel/fix. You're also at the mercy of a Dev who may or may not release the latest firmware fix.
Previously the reasons I had for rooting my phone were apearence and power saving. But you can tweak the apearence with Andromeda to get Substratum working.
The battery on these devices is brilliant out of the box. Having tried rooted and non rooted, the difference in savings in battery is minimal, just a few percent.
Add to that the danger that whatever banking/games you run will have a fit at the phone being rooted, I'd say it's not worth the effort.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
very true!
and at the end I always find myself unlocking bootloaders :s

Thanks for all the opinions!
Don't think I'll unlock it anyway!

Question Unsupported Countries and Root

Hey guys i need your advice.
Tomorrow my Pixel 7 pro arrives and i am living in an unsupported county. I have read a lot of guides about the root etc. i just want to verify that i will be able to use the full features of the device if i rooted....like call screening, 5g etc. and how risky is to be rooted nowdays because last time i root my phone was 10 years ago....if after the mandatory things i don't install any app outside of the store and don't grant access root will my device be safe ? thank you

try hentaios In the latest update it was activated 5g in unsupported countries

m3ath said:
try hentaios In the latest update it was activated 5g in unsupported countries
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
HentaiOS for Pixel 7 Pro? Is it on Telegram or another third-party place?

ekin_strops said:
HentaiOS for Pixel 7 Pro? Is it on Telegram or another third-party place?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes for 7 pro and 7
They have a channel in Telegram

I am certainly not an expert. I remember the days of flashing roms. I used to sometimes flash multiple roms a day.
Now most of the features I used to use custom roms for are already in Android.
Also if you have a Pixel you have a pretty clean version of Android.
So I don't really see the point. Maybe in your situation because you are using the phone in an unsupported country you might be able to enable some features but I would think the network bands are hardware based and either your carrier is compatible with the Pixel or not?
IMHO I would not root or install custom software on a brand new phone like a Pixel or other flagship. It generally voids your warranty and if you soft brick the device and can't revive it what do you do? Also with root you have huge security vulnerability. Pixel is supposed to be one of the most secure Android phones so why would you get rid of that benefit?
Also updates would be a pain.
If I had a free cheap phone from a carrier with a crappy version of Android that I would risk rooting and maybe installing a custom ROM but I just don't see the need on a Pixel??

robbbzilla said:
IMHO I would not root or install custom software on a brand new phone like a Pixel or other flagship. It generally voids your warranty and if you soft brick the device and can't revive it what do you do? Also with root you have huge security vulnerability. Pixel is supposed to be one of the most secure Android phones so why would you get rid of that benefit?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) It doesn't void your warranty on the Pixel.
2) Root isn't a security vulnerability in and of itself but the unlocked bootloader can be if someone gets ahold of your phone. Seeing how the filesystem is encrypted though, it's not so much a risk to your data as it is to the person being able to steal the phone easier.
3) Most other phones have largely been locked down so a lot of us get the Pixel *because* it can be rooted.
robbbzilla said:
Also updates would be a pain.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not too bad. Pixel Flasher makes the whole process easy. Plug into the computer, launch Pixel Flasher, download the update, click the patch image button so it makes a Magisk image, select that image, flash. It's all done with a user friendly GUI. While it's not as straightforward as updating directly on the phone, it also installs faster, so it's a worthwhile trade off.

EtherealRemnant said:
1) It doesn't void your warranty on the Pixel.
2) Root isn't a security vulnerability in and of itself but the unlocked bootloader can be if someone gets ahold of your phone. Seeing how the filesystem is encrypted though, it's not so much a risk to your data as it is to the person being able to steal the phone easier.
3) Most other phones have largely been locked down so a lot of us get the Pixel *because* it can be rooted.
Not too bad. Pixel Flasher makes the whole process easy. Plug into the computer, launch Pixel Flasher, download the update, click the patch image button so it makes a Magisk image, select that image, flash. It's all done with a user friendly GUI. While it's not as straightforward as updating directly on the phone, it also installs faster, so it's a worthwhile trade off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know. I thought enabling root level privileges would cause system wide insecurity.
As I prefaced my comments I am no expert and it has been a long time since I rooted my phones.
That is why it is good to ask questions and learn about the state of things now.
I didn't know that you could root a Pixel device and not void the warranty. I am used to the Samsung lock down.
Also with Pixel or with previous Nexus device it was always fun to see what new features Google would add in a new update/feature drop so I never felt the need to root a Pixel phone.
However if you like rooting and can do so without much risk then why not? I can see the fun in trying different software and gaining better control over your device.

robbbzilla said:
Good to know. I thought enabling root level privileges would cause system wide insecurity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seeing how you still have to authorize the use of root and Magisk even has added support for fingerprint verification to do so, it's not much more of a risk than having an unrooted device really.
robbbzilla said:
Also with Pixel or with previous Nexus device it was always fun to see what new features Google would add in a new update/feature drop so I never felt the need to root a Pixel phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You still get this stuff when you're rooted and even on most custom ROMs for Pixel. The only downside comes from apps that don't want to play nice. As long as I can use Google Pay, which I'm able to do after using the SafetyNet fix mod, I don't mind having to use the web browser for a banking app here and there (and right now there's only one that flat out won't work, Security Service FCU, so I'm not too put out by it).

It's a pain in the ass to enable carrier features like VoLTE, VoNR, etc. Pixel features like call screening require phenotype edits, which are also a pain in the ass.

G_Vasi said:
Hey guys i need your advice.
Tomorrow my Pixel 7 pro arrives and i am living in an unsupported county. I have read a lot of guides about the root etc. i just want to verify that i will be able to use the full features of the device if i rooted....like call screening, 5g etc. and how risky is to be rooted nowdays because last time i root my phone was 10 years ago....if after the mandatory things i don't install any app outside of the store and don't grant access root will my device be safe ? thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One bit of warning/caution, I've seen/found a lot of users on this forum who are in other countries (maybe unsupported) biggest issue would be NFC pay & banking apps not working. I personally have only seen a few select apps stated on this forum that can't be launched due to root detection that SafetyNetFix and Zygisk DenyList/Shamiko wasn't able to successfully hide, but there are some -- I myself have Wallet, Gpay, 4 banking apps, Xfinity apps, working while I've discussed with some other users the same banking app not working for them -- that, no matter how much users tried, they were unable to get it working. Supposedly there are combinations of root hiding methods and modules that have blocked mostly all of the stubborn apps, but then there seems to be some apps that merely just having an unlocked bootloader is enough to restrict their use.
So if this might be your situation where you have certain apps (most likely banking) that you can't really live without and/or use daily/frequently but they are known to not run on a rooted & unlocked bootloader device, that's the only real downside to rooting.
Other than that, I believe obtaining root on our device benefits so much far outweighing the risks. If certain things stop working, usually there are workarounds to get them to work or alternatives. If anything, particularly in your case, I don't believe you can get those features of 5G and call screening and camera sound and VPN and whatever other feature is restricted in an unsupported country without root....
So there are them pros & cons...

Thank you for your answers guys.....I also think that pros are more than cons....as far as I know and from the ways I found here my Bank apps will work normally.....and also I found a tutorial here that say it will enable all the Pixel features in unsupported countries so hopefully it will work...if by any case anyone tried it I would like to hear the feedback especially for google screening.