Any way to unlock the bootloader if the services menu says "No"? - Xperia Z5 Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

I swear my z3c said no, but I was able to do it anyways - I think that was by flashing an alternative ftf.
the bit of reading I've done seems to say that the z5 has some added things preventing anything unsigned from running, so the only way to get and keep root is to unlock the bootloader.
I'm not concerned with keeping the DRM stuff, but I am concerned that I'd brick my phone if I went forward with trying to unlock the bootloader when I'm apparently not allowed to.
This is on a Z5, on contract with EE

Related

Rogers D6603 Full Unlock

I just received my Sony D6603 Xperia Z3 from my carrier which is Rogers. Is there a way to fully unlock the device as if it was purchased as an unlocked version? I've tried searching for answers, but only came up with how to unlock the bootloader and rooting instructions. Unless, if by doing those methods, will fully unlock my device including SIM lock. Any help and insight would be greatly appreciated.
Depending on Roger's terms you should be able to have them unlock it. Appears you have to wait 90 days though.
http://www.rogers.com/web/support/wireless/unlock/733?setLanguage=en
Loving this one:
Why do I have to wait 90 days before I can unlock my device?
Your device has been optimized for use on the Rogers network. You may find that some settings or features do not function properly once the device is unlocked and in use with another carrier's SIM card. We want to ensure that you've had the chance to experience the full capabilities of your device on the Rogers network before making the decision to unlock.
Rooting and bootloader unlock will make no difference to SIM unlock.
The two issues are separate.
gregbradley said:
Rooting and bootloader unlock will make no difference to SIM unlock.
The two issues are separate.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I unlock the SIM on my device via a code, will it still be unlocked even after re-flashing my device's firmware?
Because I just checked to see if I can unlock my device's bootloader, but I'm not able to at all. Maybe I will be after getting it unlocked by Rogers themselves after the 90 days.
Flava0ne said:
If I unlock the SIM on my device via a code, will it still be unlocked even after re-flashing my device's firmware?
Because I just checked to see if I can unlock my device's bootloader, but I'm not able to at all. Maybe I will be after getting it unlocked by Rogers themselves after the 90 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once your device is sim free (using code) it will remain unlocked no matter what you do
Flava0ne said:
If I unlock the SIM on my device via a code, will it still be unlocked even after re-flashing my device's firmware?
Because I just checked to see if I can unlock my device's bootloader, but I'm not able to at all. Maybe I will be after getting it unlocked by Rogers themselves after the 90 days.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please re-read what I said. Bootloader unlock and SIM unlock are two separate things. One does not affect the other. It does not matter what you do to one it will not change the status of the other.
gregbradley said:
Please re-read what I said. Bootloader unlock and SIM unlock are two separate things. One does not affect the other. It does not matter what you do to one it will not change the status of the other.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I understood what you said. What I meant was, when or if I get Rogers to unlock my device, unless they're only unlocking the SIM on it, hopefully I'll be able to unlock the bootloader as if I originally purchased it unlocked to begin with. Because when I checked my device's service menu, the status on the bootloader is that it cannot be unlocked using Sony's official method. If I had purchased an unlocked device instead of getting it through Rogers, the bootloader unlockable status would be different, correct?
When I get home, I'll try and see if I can still unlock the bootloader un-officially using Flashtool, unless for some reason that method won't work at all and my bootloader will not be able to be unlocked at all currently.
Edit: All I basically want to accomplish in my new device is to have root access to it. My previous device was an Xperia PLAY which was also purchased originally locked from Rogers. But after fully unlocking it using the Omnius client, I was able to unlock it's bootloader, flash DooMLorD's kernel and get root access to it. Because all the tutorials I've found on how to access root on the Xperia Z3 involves having the bootloader unlocked.
Flava0ne said:
Yes, I understood what you said. What I meant was, when or if I get Rogers to unlock my device, unless they're only unlocking the SIM on it, hopefully I'll be able to unlock the bootloader as if I originally purchased it unlocked to begin with. Because when I checked my device's service menu, the status on the bootloader is that it cannot be unlocked using Sony's official method. If I had purchased an unlocked device instead of getting it through Rogers, the bootloader unlockable status would be different, correct?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Probably, but some carrier free devices come with a boot that cannot be unlocked and some devices that are from a carrier can be unlocked. SIM free or SIM locked does not imply the bootloader can or cannot be unlocked.
When I get home, I'll try and see if I can still unlock the bootloader un-officially using Flashtool, unless for some reason that method won't work at all and my bootloader will not be able to be unlocked at all currently.
Edit: All I basically want to accomplish in my new device is to have root access to it. My previous device was an Xperia PLAY which was also purchased originally locked from Rogers. But after fully unlocking it using the Omnius client, I was able to unlock it's bootloader, flash DooMLorD's kernel and get root access to it. Because all the tutorials I've found on how to access root on the Xperia Z3 involves having the bootloader unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no unofficial bootloader unlock for this device. Its done through sony's official method or not at all.
If Rodgers unlocks the sim for you it will not affect the status of the bootloader at all, unless you ask them to do it and they agree.
To get root access you do not need to be SIM unlocked. The only way to gain root acces on the Z3 currently is to unlock the bootloader, which you cannot do even if Rodgers SIM unlock it
The xperia play is a legacy device and there were unofficial ways to unlock the bootloader. That has not been the case with all new phones for a couple of years now. I believe (Correct me if I am wrong) that the xperia NEO was one of the last to come with an unofficial unlock (The test point method). My old Xperia T was one of the first to come that had no unofficial unlock and the only way to do it was via Sonys unlock site.
gregbradley said:
Probably, but some carrier free devices come with a boot that cannot be unlocked and some devices that are from a carrier can be unlocked. SIM free or SIM locked does not imply the bootloader can or cannot be unlocked.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's something I didn't know, I've always thought that when you purchase an unlocked Android device that the bootloader would be unlockable, good to know!
gregbradley said:
If Rodgers unlocks the sim for you it will not affect the status of the bootloader at all, unless you ask them to do it and they agree.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So they can apparently change the unlock-able status of the bootloader themselves?
gregbradley said:
The xperia play is a legacy device and there were unofficial ways to unlock the bootloader. That has not been the case with all new phones for a couple of years now. I believe (Correct me if I am wrong) that the xperia NEO was one of the last to come with an unofficial unlock (The test point method). My old Xperia T was one of the first to come that had no unofficial unlock and the only way to do it was via Sonys unlock site.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So basically, unlocking Sony devices unofficially, stopped around the same time Sony Ericsson became only Sony?
Flava0ne said:
That's something I didn't know, I've always thought that when you purchase an unlocked Android device that the bootloader would be unlockable, good to know!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So they can apparently change the unlock-able status of the bootloader themselves?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, there have been some posts that some people have managed to do this with some carriers, but I am very sceptical as to this actually happening.
So basically, unlocking Sony devices unofficially, stopped around the same time Sony Ericsson became only Sony?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That may be coincidence, I believe that Sony made a tactical decision to stop unofficial methods by allowing some devices to be unlocked officially. This saw an almost immediate stop in devs working on unofficial unlocks as you could always get hold of a device that could be unlocked officially and for free. They basically took the need of an unofficial unlock out of the equation.
If Rogers could do that, it really makes me wonder what kind of tool/program that they use to accomplish this.
Probably something similar to Emma or just fastboot and adb. I really do not know that. The problem is they know the keys, without them it needs a good dev to find a vulnerability and write an exploit. That takes time and skill. And since there is an official method there seems no need to spend that time, as people with that skill just get themselves devices which can be unlocked
My 3rd day now with my new Z3 and I'm really missing having root access.
11901
Will SIM unlocking allow you to delete the Rogers apps?
Also, I noticed my phone doesn't let me hide apps, though most people seem to have that option... is that a Rogers thing or is there something wrong with my device?
Sim unlock has nothing to do with root, so sim unlocking will not give you the ability to remove system apps.
msxghost said:
Will SIM unlocking allow you to delete the Rogers apps?
Also, I noticed my phone doesn't let me hide apps, though most people seem to have that option... is that a Rogers thing or is there something wrong with my device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What i have done already to my device as soon as i got it, before even turning it on for the first time, was use Flashtool and flashed it with the Global Generic Firmware to get rid of the Rogers branding on it. I was able to disable most of the built in bloatware that originally comes with it.
57147468 said:
What i have done already to my device as soon as i got it, before even turning it on for the first time, was use Flashtool and flashed it with the Global Generic Firmware to get rid of the Rogers branding on it. I was able to disable most of the built in bloatware that originally comes with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will doing so essentially wipe my phone? Unfortunately I've already downloaded all my apps/customized it how I want otherwise, so I'd like to avoid that if possible. Sorry if this seems like a stupid question, I'm new to Android.
msxghost said:
Will doing so essentially wipe my phone? Unfortunately I've already downloaded all my apps/customized it how I want otherwise, so I'd like to avoid that if possible. Sorry if this seems like a stupid question, I'm new to Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not if you tick the box to exclude data on flashtool when you flash it
gregbradley said:
Not if you tick the box to exclude data on flashtool when you flash it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there some sort of beginners guide/explanation/walkthrough you can point me towards? I've never had an Android before, so I have no idea what I'm doing and I don't want to screw anything up.

[Q] Z3 Root Reality Check

I've been watching the developer board regarding the root and locked bootloader issue, and I've spent hours researching this and have yet to find a solution that's known to work without loss of something, likely a permanent or semi permanent loss. My device is a Z3 model D6616. I'm unhappy with the phone for several other reasons, but haven't owned an un-rooted phone for some time, and prefer keeping this phone if I can root it successfully. Root with stock firmware is my objective and am only interested in responses from people that have themselves rooted (and dealt with bootloader issues) a Z3.
- Root phone installing current T-mobile stock firmware.
- Known loss of function: Sony DRM dependant features/funtion only (from memory, mostly related to camera low light performance and DRM playback issues)
- Other loss of function experienced with stock features, or any other problem with any other app. Especially concerned with root dependant features of Play apps? Also ad blockers?
- Waranty loss (potential) and loss of OTA updates understood.
- Feature/function loss with workarounds or fixed that survive power cycle?
- Expect permament bootlocker inability to relock
- A link to the specific process you used, any problems you encountered whatever the cause. For example it usually takes me at least 3 attempts to root using any complex process, and I always read through 5 times before starting and download every needed file and program in advance.
Again: Sony Xperia z3 D6616 T-mobile
Firmware: 4.4.4 23.0.3.1.123
Software: D6166 R16B
In the past, I've had the most problems when an understood part of a process is not explicitly stated, or I've ignored or misunderstood a step. Plugging and unplugging from usb to PC a typical example. I don't have the technical know how to critique or ignore, so always attempt to follow all instructions without variance. I've had some problems, and most were solved by starting the process again. I hesitate to ask for help since the last time I did that I was attacked for witholding information when asked if I had backed up the phone. Since i didn't have access to the PC at the time of the question I honestly answered I didn't know (since I had attempted to but couldn't confirm). If you've ever answered a question here implying the request or requester is stupid or dishonest, I'm fully aware of my ignorance and my own integrity, and other personality traits, so please ignore this request, which accepts my lack of knowlege and has no tolerance for your issues not previously resolved through your own peaceful and respectful process.
Please only respond if you have personally rooted this specific phone model. If you have not, but know someone who has, please ask them to review this post and respond.
Nobody has rooted this phone without unlocking the bootloader. If you unlock to root, you will permanently lose DRM keys from the TA partition with no way to recover. No current root method works on 4.4.4 on the Z3. No one knows when or if an exploit will be found. We all want root. If you want it now, unlock the bootloader. If you can wait, wait. It's your call either way. As soon as a root method surfaces, best believe it will be in these forums. I'll be waiting with you...
First of all, check *#*#7378423#*#* to see if you bootloader can be unlocked or not.
Coz I think 6616's bootloader is unlockable.
freddy1991 said:
First of all, check *#*#7378423#*#* to see if you bootloader can be unlocked or not.
Coz I think 6616's bootloader is unlockable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is true. D6616 owner here, T-MO not unlockable yet :/ eagerly awaiting root as well as I really enjoy the z3, maybe even more than my Nexus 6 (gasp, blasphemy!)
Thanks For the Responses
freddy you addressed my concern, exactly. My phone reports:
Rooting Status:
Boot Unlocker Allowed: No
Although variants of the z3 have been bootlocker unlocked and rooted, I have not found a clear claim that was successfully done with D6616 z3. Since I'm a new T-mobile customer, this and their attitude about it are a poor way to start. I have a HTC phone I haven't returned, maybe I can get them to take the Z3 back instead. While I have benefited from and appreciate the great work so many people have done to make our phones usable and available to us, I've seen how carriers, mfgs, and users push good phones to market crippled by junk and unecessarily locked down. it's time to consider the mamufacturers that have been successful building good phones and selling in places like China at much lower prices.
Regarding any loss of DRM, I couldn't care less. This phone takes worse low light photos and video than my rooted Samsung G3, making it functionaly useless to me. Add to that the lack of a rational UI for telephony and IM, and done with Sony.
To be clear, if the bootloader can be unlocked and the phone can be rooted and you have done this yourself, please post.
Well...
I think there is no way you could unlock the bootloader of 6616.
The only way is to wait for the root on locked bootloader.
Check here http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2940539
But that means you have to stick in the .93 firmware, even if the exploit is also usable for Z3.
Or return your 6616 and buy a 6603 or 6653 variant.
BREAKING NEWS
http://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/giefroot-rooting-tool-cve-2014-4322-t3011598
Man, No bootloader unlock = Useless phone
HORiZUN said:
BREAKING NEWS
http://forum.xda-developers.com/crossdevice-dev/sony/giefroot-rooting-tool-cve-2014-4322-t3011598
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=58468332&postcount=815
I'm similarly confused about this whole thing, this new Giefroot program means we can all potentially get root for our devices, but we still lose the DRM keys right? So that means we can never have the Sony camera/image processing processes back again right?
Thwwack said:
I'm similarly confused about this whole thing, this new Giefroot program means we can all potentially get root for our devices, but we still lose the DRM keys right? So that means we can never have the Sony camera/image processing processes back again right?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NO
Unlocking the bootloader = loss of DRM
Rooting that does not involve unlocking the bootloader means you keep the DRM keys
gregbradley said:
NO
Unlocking the bootloader = loss of DRM
Rooting that does not involve unlocking the bootloader means you keep the DRM keys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I'm new to Android and this is all over my head. To clarify, Giefroot does this without unlocking the bootloader?
It's all pretty frustrating, I gotta say... I'd love to install Cyanogenmod on this, but losing key features on the device is a pretty harsh trade off.
Thwwack said:
Thanks, I'm new to Android and this is all over my head. To clarify, Giefroot does this without unlocking the bootloader?
It's all pretty frustrating, I gotta say... I'd love to install Cyanogenmod on this, but losing key features on the device is a pretty harsh trade off.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, giefroot does not unlock the boot. There is only one way to do that and that is to obtaining the code from sony and fastboot it either manually or using flashtool.
Delete

Unable to get OTA updates on Xperia Z5

Hello! I'm new here and actually the main purpose of my registration on this wonderful website is the amount of helpful and skillful people I saw in various threads I read before, giving me hope for the solution of my problem.
As stated in the title, I'm currently unable to get OTA updates on my phone.
Some time ago I unlocked the bootloader (so my bl is unlocked now) in order to have my Z5 rooted. Apparently something went awfully wrong while flashing the TWRP or perhaps I was just awfully stupid and missed a step... Anyways I ended up without any OS and started searching on the web for some solutions.
I came across FlashTool and XperiFirm, then downloaded and flashed the (at the time) latest firmware, which is the one i currently have (Service Menu shows "GENERIC_32.2.A.0.224"). So now my phone seems perfectly fine: stock rom, no custom recovery (as far as I know), no root privileges. The only problem it shows is the fingerprint hardware that stops working every once in a while; something a simple reboot fixes.
But I have been unable to update since then, with my "software update" tab showing no available updates (nor could I get one via Sony PC Companion, furthermore getting errors while trying fo repair software) while under "diagnostics" it clearly says "new software available".
I just want to get everything back as it was before, and to get my OTA updates to work; I'm not interested in custom ROMs or custom recoveries or SU.
I apologize in advance in case an identical thread had already been opened and closed; I hope you guys can help me solve this mess I did.
Thanks a lot
I found out my problem is connected with the DRM Keys loss caused by unlocking the bootloader. I'll try this out: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z5/development/root-automatic-repack-stock-kernel-dm-t3301605
scacio said:
I found out my problem is connected with the DRM Keys loss caused by unlocking the bootloader. I'll try this out: http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z5/development/root-automatic-repack-stock-kernel-dm-t3301605
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Once you have unlocked the Bootloader ota updates don't work EVER only manually flashing the ftf via flashtool will get you updated. If you unlocked the Bootloader without backing up the drm/ta keys then re-lock the Bootloader ota updates will Not work. If you unlock the Bootloader and then re-lock with previously backed up drm/ta keys ota updates WILL work.
The drm fix does NOT replace the missing drm/ta keys it merely tricks the device into thinking that those required for x-reality, low light conditions, and noise reduction in the camera are there to reactivate those features.
Also DO NOT try to use a other Xperia devices drm/ta keys on your own unless you want a permanent paperweight.
Sent from my Xperia XA using XDA Labs
Ah, so I should have backed those up before unlocking the bootloader. It seems I'll have to spend a few minutes on flashtool every once in a while to get updates, nevermind.
Anyway is it worth it to try this DRM fix? I did not notice any changes to the quality of the camera.
And another noob question: if I flash this "modified kernel" will my device be wiped? Or I just flash it, reboot the phone and enjoy DRM features?
Just a quick update to let you know, I have installed the drm fix and rooted, the funny thing is that now I receive ota updates.. But of course I'm unable to install them. Not that I want them anyway, so no problem. I have reconsidered the potentiality of a rooted device and started to appreciate the benefits; thanks for the help

Locked Bootloader, Config Says "No" Can't Unlock, But Have Root... Am I stuck?

Locked Bootloader, Config Says "No" Can't Unlock, But Have Root... Am I stuck?
Hey everyone,
Well, I had to pull out my previous phone, my Tmo D6616 Xperia Z3. I replaced it when the battery was all bloated and could explode, etc. I replaced it with an LG G5. And, I have the horrible GPS issue with my G5 that just doesn't work well at all. This bugs me. I travel with my family enough that I use it and has caused some wrong turns, etc. I want to replace it, but don't see any good deals in my situation since I have no number to port-in or a new person to bring on the plan.
So, here I am checking on what I can do with my Z3. I've replaced the battery, got a new case, and also replaced the screen protector... just like a brand new phone, except the ROM is really outdated. It is currently on the latest OTA from Sony, Android 5.0. I did check to see if there is a more recent stock ROM and there isn't.
I want to install a new ROM, in which I should be able to backup the TA partition since I am rooted.
When I do the *#*#.... code, then check to see if the bootloader can be unlocked, it says no. Because of that, am I out of luck?
Am I able to use root to unlock the bootloader and install another ROM?
Same question here...
johnathanamber said:
Am I able to use root to unlock the bootloader and install another ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also want this answer.
If it says "no" to unlock the bootloader, then you can not unlock the bootloader.
You can, however, use root and recovery.
Check out https://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/general/guide-rootrecovery-how-to-root-install-t3017056. Just stick it to xperia Roms. Search the forum, I think Marshmallow is the latest.
As far as I know, other Roms than Xperia are not recommended for a locked bootloader. But there are other, xperia roms, for a locked bootloader Z3.
Good luck.
DolDrum said:
If it says "no" to unlock the bootloader, then you can not unlock the bootloader.
You can, however, use root and recovery.
Check out https://forum.xda-developers.com/z3/general/guide-rootrecovery-how-to-root-install-t3017056. Just stick it to xperia Roms. Search the forum, I think Marshmallow is the latest.
As far as I know, other Roms than Xperia are not recommended for a locked bootloader. But there are other, xperia roms, for a locked bootloader Z3.
Good luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was able to get recovery installed, thanks for that. I am not so sure about the MM rom, however. I haven't seen one for the D6616. That would at least make it a little better to work with.

Root Verizon Pixel 2 on Android Q?

I am aware that there is already a thread for unlocking Bootloader on Android 8.1.0, but I tried the steps in that article and it unfortunately was unable to unlock my device. I bought my Pixel 2 secondhand, but because the OEM Unlocking toggle in Settings is grayed out and in the off position, I am led to believe that I have a Verizon model. I have an AT&T SIM card however. I also tried looking up how to downgrade my phone to the Google version of Android 8.1.0 but they all require that OEM Unlocking be turned on. Is there any updated guide on how to unlock the Bootloader for my phone so that I can possibly root it?
Not right now but there is an interesting vulnerability out right now.... I'd turn off updates for a little while incase something arises
Unlocking the bootloader is a totally different prospect than gaining root. Root can be obtained with an exploit, the recent one being a good example, but it will only be temporary. To make it permanent you need to unlock the bootloader. To unlock the bootloader you need yet another exploit for the bootloader since all the refurbished models appear to be unable to use the factory unlock process. Combine that with low demand for a two year old device and odds are it will never happen unless Google itself provides a solution. In short, I wouldn't hold my breath or leave a giant security hole on your device in hopes that it can be bootloader unlocked in the future. If you need a device that can be bootloader unlocked, go to Google and buy one.
***Unlocking the bootloader is a totally different prospect than gaining root.
Agreed
***Root can be obtained with an exploit, the recent one being a good example, but it will only be temporary.
Not always true, there have been many roots that didn't require bootloader unlock. Towel root comes to mind also many sunshine roots and countless others.
***To make it permanent you need to unlock the bootloader.
It helps a lot but see above....
*** To unlock the bootloader you need yet another exploit for the bootloader since all the refurbished models appear to be unable to use the factory unlock process. Combine that with low demand for a two year old device and odds are it will never happen unless Google itself provides a solution. In short, I wouldn't hold my breath or leave a giant security hole on your device in hopes that it can be bootloader unlocked in the future. If you need a device that can be bootloader unlocked, go to Google and buy one.
I don't want to buy a other phone..... The first one I bought was supposed to be unlockable. I'll deal or hope. The security hole really doesn't worry me at the moment. I won't leave it open permanent.
After thinking about it, the a/b partition may throw a serious monkey wrench in the full root issue.
Is there a way then to root my Android without turning on OEM Unlocking? My limited research on this makes me conclude that there's no such method for the Google Pixel 2.
Right now there is a temp root.
mrkhigh said:
Right now there is a temp root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you be able to provide a link on how to do a temporary root on the Pixel 2?
I believe if you read the whole thread one person said it worked on the p2.
Careful though, change system they say it bricks the phone.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/pi...-magisk-root-vzw-pixel-2-xl-xl-t3981423/page5

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