Hi there. I haven't been in the xda scene since the Galaxy s 2. I was wondering what the status is of the safetyknox and whether or not the 'corrupted' logo indicator was reversable yet. Back in the old days I was able to just factory data reset to the stock rom and submit a warranty claim no problem.
I would love to hack my pixil 2 but I use Netflix and Android pay regularly so that may be a problem..
aspen1135 said:
Hi there. I haven't been in the xda scene since the Galaxy s 2. I was wondering what the status is of the safetyknox and whether or not the 'corrupted' logo indicator was reversable yet. Back in the old days I was able to just factory data reset to the stock rom and submit a warranty claim no problem.
I would love to hack my pixil 2 but I use Netflix and Android pay regularly so that may be a problem..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Knox is a proprietary system by Samsung - Pixel users don't have to worry about that.
If you unlock the bootloader, you'll get a warning on (re)boot that the device is potentially insecure, which is pretty standard. There is no loss of features from unlocking the bootloader. And you can always relock it and flash a factory image to return it to stock state.
On the other hand, custom kernels and some root solutions will indeed trip Safety net, which will in turn disallow applications that depend on them. But there are plenty of threads on those issues.
Related
can I root my phone without voiding warranty?
and if I rootit can I unroot it and return to its original state?
thank you
jusleen said:
can I root my phone without voiding warranty?
and if I rootit can I unroot it and return to its original state?
thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
teoreticaly yes, you lose warranty.
but you can unroot it.
Actually technically the answer is NO. Rooting your phone should not in and of itself void your warranty, but the things you can do may and most likely will. For example lets say you root your phone and keep the stock kernel just debloat the stock ROM, and then the volume buttons stop working...unless you did hardware mods it would be under warranty. When I rooted my HTC using the HTCDev method to unlock the bootloader the disclaimer said it MAY, not that it will or does, and a few months after rooting and reading their warning I sent in my phone for warranty repair/replacement with no problems, even though my phone was documented as being rooted. Now if you hard brick your phone flashing a ROM with bad mount points that is a different story altogether.
A few years back I had a Samsung Interceptor that I had rooted and it had an issue with a physical button (Power button I believe), I brought my phone to Sprint and the rep saw it was rooted (before I sprung for Superuser Elite to hide the app). His words to me were that as long as NO hardware mods were done and the phone can be flashed back to a stock state it would still be covered under warranty. Important to note...Carriers will not service a phone with a custom recovery PERIOD, which is why I left the Sprint store and reflashed the stock image to the phone.
My advice to people who are concerned with their warranties is to know exactly how to get it back to stock...before its ever customized. The reason for this should be obvious. And don't let it leave your hands (sent out for repair, or brought to the back for testing) prior to flashing it back to stock
i won't use anything larger than 4"2
ItzCrooK2UxD said:
Actually technically the answer is NO. Rooting your phone should not in and of itself void your warranty, but the things you can do may and most likely will. For example lets say you root your phone and keep the stock kernel just debloat the stock ROM, and then the volume buttons stop working...unless you did hardware mods it would be under warranty. When I rooted my HTC using the HTCDev method to unlock the bootloader the disclaimer said it MAY, not that it will or does, and a few months after rooting and reading their warning I sent in my phone for warranty repair/replacement with no problems, even though my phone was documented as being rooted. Now if you hard brick your phone flashing a ROM with bad mount points that is a different story altogether.
A few years back I had a Samsung Interceptor that I had rooted and it had an issue with a physical button (Power button I believe), I brought my phone to Sprint and the rep saw it was rooted (before I sprung for Superuser Elite to hide the app). His words to me were that as long as NO hardware mods were done and the phone can be flashed back to a stock state it would still be covered under warranty. Important to note...Carriers will not service a phone with a custom recovery PERIOD, which is why I left the Sprint store and reflashed the stock image to the phone.
My advice to people who are concerned with their warranties is to know exactly how to get it back to stock...before its ever customized. The reason for this should be obvious. And don't let it leave your hands (sent out for repair, or brought to the back for testing) prior to flashing it back to stock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Then do you know how to get it back to stock after i rooted it??thanks
jusleen said:
Then do you know how to get it back to stock after i rooted it??thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can probably point you in the right direction...did you unlock the bootloader or not? I am seeing a few unroot methods for locked bootloaders. If you did unlock the bootloader you will need to lock it back. Also it is important to note that some bootloaders will say *relocked* after relocking them, and not *locked* if it says *relocked* they will know it has been rooted. This is NOT a problem because once again having root access does not void the warranty, but you should be aware that if it says relocked they will know it has been rooted. This link has a root/unroot tool that may help it makes no mention of a specific firmware for your model phone so it should be fine. Also this video should help with the relock procedure but not knowing the phone I would need more specific details. Firmware and method used to root/unlock bootloader if you unlocked it. One of the relock procedures can be see here
*EDIT* I did a little looking and thought you might find this of interest. About midway through there is a section about warranty claims and returns...I didn't sign up so I can't see the links there but it should help .
Hi all,
I've had a bit of experience in rooting and flashing, back on my old Nexus 4. Haven't done it in awhile due to my 4.4 Nexus 5 stock being bloody perfect in my opinion.
But coming up to Android 5 lollipop... I'm really looking for a new ROM as I believe 5.0 stock is terrible. So my first question: Is it now possible to restore the tablet back to a state that the warranty provider will not be able to tell it's been rooted/flashed (and voided warranty)?
My Second is: How on earth do you chose between ROMs now? I'm thinking of using xTraSmooth 3.1 but OptiPop has also caught my eye!
Cheers.
Tomo8281 said:
Hi all,
I've had a bit of experience in rooting and flashing, back on my old Nexus 4. Haven't done it in awhile due to my 4.4 Nexus 5 stock being bloody perfect in my opinion.
But coming up to Android 5 lollipop... I'm really looking for a new ROM as I believe 5.0 stock is terrible. So my first question: Is it now possible to restore the tablet back to a state that the warranty provider will not be able to tell it's been rooted/flashed (and voided warranty)?
My Second is: How on earth do you chose between ROMs now? I'm thinking of using xTraSmooth 3.1 but OptiPop has also caught my eye!
Cheers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, the Nexus 5 isn't a tablet.
It is possible to reset the bootloader tamper flag and relock it, either with a few apps that require root access then removing root with the option in SuperSU, or simply flashing with LG Flashtool. The Nexus 5 doesn't have anything else to show if it has been modified or not, unless you blatantly have the bootloader unlocked or a custom ROM/SuperSU binaries installed (which doesn't matter if the phone can't even boot up at all I guess).
Also, if you bought it from Google via the Play Store, they don't seem to mind any sort of software state if its a legitimate manufacturing defect that the warranty usually covers. People have sent in their devices for legitimate defects with unlocked bootloaders and custom ROMs + kernels and Google hasn't really cared.
Regarding your second question: you try a few out and find the one you like. Or if that's not possible then some of us end up building our own.
Lethargy said:
First of all, the Nexus 5 isn't a tablet.
It is possible to reset the bootloader tamper flag and relock it, either with a few apps that require root access then removing root with the option in SuperSU, or simply flashing with LG Flashtool. The Nexus 5 doesn't have anything else to show if it has been modified or not, unless you blatantly have the bootloader unlocked or a custom ROM/SuperSU binaries installed (which doesn't matter if the phone can't even boot up at all I guess).
Also, if you bought it from Google via the Play Store, they don't seem to mind any sort of software state if its a legitimate manufacturing defect that the warranty usually covers. People have sent in their devices for legitimate defects with unlocked bootloaders and custom ROMs + kernels and Google hasn't really cared.
Regarding your second question: you try a few out and find the one you like. Or if that's not possible then some of us end up building our own.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My mistake for posting this while thinking of my new Christmas present (Galaxy Tab S tablet) !
Thanks for your reply, really appreciate it!
I think I'll install xtrasmooth today !
So I have received a "Certified Pre-Owned" Nexus 5 from T-Mobile just a couple days ago. Within the first few hours, I rooted it. At this point I could no longer install (but still received) OTAs, and IIRC that is because the system partition has been altered. I eventually did unroot, but I still could not install OTAs. Now, there is a hardware issue with the phone: it will not vibrate properly anymore. And I have tried those solutions like pressing on the back. So will need to return this phone for a replacement or repair. I have read somewhere that T-Mobile runs a diagnostic tool to check the phone software. My phone is not rooted, and I have not unlocked it or altered the ROM in any way, but will T-Mobile know that my system partition is different? Am I still covered under warranty?
You could just flash the latest entire factory image and relock the bootloader - not sure how Tmobile would be able to tell anything different especially since the nexus 5 isn't a carrier locked device.
janjanrex said:
You could just flash the latest entire factory image and relock the bootloader - not sure how Tmobile would be able to tell anything different especially since the nexus 5 isn't a carrier locked device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't plan to unlock my bootloader at all for a while. I unrooted with KingRoot, and now my phone is identical to stock except for a couple of files in the system partition that are traces of the root. I know this because OTA installations will result in an error. But that is the only thing that differs from a stock device. Will T-Mobile be able to access the system partition or somehow force an OTA upon it and find that it was once rooted? This is what I fear. What exactly does T-Mobile do when it receives the phone to make sure it had warranty?
Actually, what I would like to know for my peace of mind is...
Is there any way that T-Mobile can find out that I rooted?
janjanrex said:
You could just flash the latest entire factory image and relock the bootloader - not sure how Tmobile would be able to tell anything different especially since the nexus 5 isn't a carrier locked device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used the Nexus Root Toolkit to unlock, flash stock, unroot, lock, set tamper to false, etc. I can install OTAs now, and there is no way that I can think that my phone can be seen as altered. Just to confirm:
Is there any way now that T-Mobile will know that I did anything?
[Apologies for being a noob, I tried my best to do the homework]
I want to buy a used Pixel 2 (or Pixel 3). There is some general advice on the internet reminding to check:
(i) for physical damage
(ii) if ESN / IMEI has been blacklisted
(iii) if the device is compatible with a carrier (communication standard, uses SIM and not e-SIM, not carrier locked)
(iv) and warning that the device can break or become blacklisted after the purchase.
All of the above is associated with a risk, which is limited to the amount of money paid.
But my primary concern is the risk from using the second-hand device where privacy is critical (email, online banking, 2FA through SMS). How do I make sure the previous owner hasn't planted a backdoor? If I trust Google, what are the reasonable steps to ensure that the device hasn't been tampered with by someone else? In particular:
(1) How do I check on Pixel 2 that the firmware, bootloader, OS are the original ones?
(2) If the device had been bootloader unlocked and/or rooted, is it possible to restore the original images, re-lock the bootloader to be confident that no one (but Google) will spy on me?
(3) Is there anything I am missing?
(4) Which of these are probably different on Pixel 3 and should be asked on Pixel 3 forum?
I barely understand the difference between the bootlocker and the recovery, and I would appreciate clear answers very much.
Related:
- A related thread mentions telling apart Verizon and unlocked versions of Pixel 2:
Buying Pixel 2 on Craigslist any tips to avoid issues?
Hi, I would like to buy a used Pixel 2 off Craigslist and since I am not familiar with the Pixel 2 I hope you can help me make sure I don't get scammed. I know I need to check that the IMEI is not blacklisted (can run it through the swappa IMEI...
forum.xda-developers.com
- A similar question was asked about Galaxy Note 9. One senior member says "Hell, back in the day we could reset knox counters ... even checking knox isn't a full proof method". Another says "So rest assured if your Warranty Bit is not 0x1 a Custom Binary has never been flashed". I am confused, as there is no concensus.
Bought used. Security concerns?
I had been looking for a new phone for awhile. Settled on a Note 9 because I wanted to try using the S Pen for work and dislike the Note 10 design. However, they are still sold at full price where I live, so I bought one secondhand. Everything...
forum.xda-developers.com
- Here someone says "Really easy to relock" about OnePlus 5. I wonder if the same is true for Pixels 2/3?
Risk of used phone with unlocked bootloader?
Hey guys this is probably a lame question... does any risk come with buying a phone with an unlocked boot loader? I bought an OnePlus 5 from ebay used in great shape. The seller advised the the phone was rooted with Android 10. When i start the...
forum.xda-developers.com
Reboot the phone, and see if the yellow exclamation mark comes up saying the bootloader was modified.
If you don't see that, it means the Pixel 2 bootloader was never unlocked and a custom ROM was never flashed to the device.
Since all Pixel 2 phones would be out of warranty now, the only way to ensure security is to flash a trusty ROM yourself.
kodina said:
Since all Pixel 2 phones would be out of warranty now, the only way to ensure security is to flash a trusty ROM yourself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for you response, but I am not sure I understand the last bit. Do you mean I would have to flash a trusty ROM myself because there are no certified service centres that would accept the phone, as the warranty has expired? Or do you mean that there are no automatic updates or supported ROMs because of the end of life or something?
up!
wiltingenthusiasm said:
Thanks for you response, but I am not sure I understand the last bit. Do you mean I would have to flash a trusty ROM myself because there are no certified service centres that would accept the phone, as the warranty has expired? Or do you mean that there are no automatic updates or supported ROMs because of the end of life or something?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I mean even if the bootloader is locked, even if the original owner never flashed a custom ROM, the device (in theory) could still have had been rooted in the past, unknown apps installed, root removed and you would never know. Hoewever, this is all in theory, but it is possible, and only applies if you are paranoid about security.
Otherwise, reboot the phone, no bootlaoder warning = 99% safe to use.
kodina said:
No, I mean even if the bootloader is locked, even if the original owner never flashed a custom ROM, the device (in theory) could still have had been rooted in the past, unknown apps installed, root removed and you would never know. Hoewever, this is all in theory, but it is possible, and only applies if you are paranoid about security.
Otherwise, reboot the phone, no bootlaoder warning = 99% safe to use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, I see. And a factory reset would not help either, because it does not recover the OS from a reserve copy whose integrity can be ensured, but simply deletes all user data and extra apps, while keeping the rest, which could have been compromised via root access. Therefore, there is no guarantee that the factory reset via bootloader really gets the device to the "factory state". Is that correct?
[Many thanks for your explanation.]
wiltingenthusiasm said:
Oh, I see. And a factory reset would not help either, because it does not recover the OS from a reserve copy whose integrity can be ensured, but simply deletes all user data and extra apps, while keeping the rest, which could have been compromised via root access. Therefore, there is no guarantee that the factory reset via bootloader really gets the device to the "factory state". Is that correct?
[Many thanks for your explanation.]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In theory, because I have not ready any news, articles, guides or forum threads where people are claiming they have done it.
So, the only option to ensure things are 1% safer, is to unlock the bootloader and flash a custom ROM yourself, trusting that the ROM dev didn't put anything weird in it. Though, as far as I checked, none of the OFFICIAL ROMs for Pixel 2 have a history of putting in something bad.
So, if you want 100% stability, use the default google ROM after a factory reset, but if you want """more""" security, unlock the bootloader and flash the ROM yourself.
Hi,
Just grabbed an Xperia 5 II on a great deal and I'm loving this device. It's an A002SO. I have noticed in other threads that there is some loss with original functionality of the phone (maybe Dolby or some other features are broken even if phone is restored to stock). Is it true? And if so what features are broken.
I noticed that Xperia camera software are available for other roms too which is great but what about device fingerprint and BL unlock sensing protection for banking apps? (I am not interested in rooting the phone after flashing lineage/AOSP roms but more concerned about the broken safety net in-case I go custom ROM route)
Also, is there a risk of losing IMEI with all this process? Not talking about crossflashing here but would love an AIO guide about BL unlock > recovery > ROM and the Back to stock locked bootloader guides if there are any.
Thank you!
dark_prince said:
Hi,
Just grabbed an Xperia 5 II on a great deal and I'm loving this device. It's an A002SO. I have noticed in other threads that there is some loss with original functionality of the phone (maybe Dolby or some other features are broken even if phone is restored to stock). Is it true? And if so what features are broken.
I noticed that Xperia camera software are available for other roms too which is great but what about device fingerprint and BL unlock sensing protection for banking apps? (I am not interested in rooting the phone after flashing lineage/AOSP roms but more concerned about the broken safety net in-case I go custom ROM route)
Also, is there a risk of losing IMEI with all this process? Not talking about crossflashing here but would love an AIO guide about BL unlock > recovery > ROM and the Back to stock locked bootloader guides if there are any.
Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a different model, but I recently went from stock to Lineage OS, then back to stock. I haven't had any issues. Dolby works, my data/LTE works, and I can still use my banking app just fine. Fingerprint detection was a bit more finnicky with Lineage OS, though.
I should also note, I'm currently rooted with my bootloader unlocked, and still no issues.
SomeRandomGuy212 said:
I have a different model, but I recently went from stock to Lineage OS, then back to stock. I haven't had any issues. Dolby works, my data/LTE works, and I can still use my banking app just fine. Fingerprint detection was a bit more finnicky with Lineage OS, though.
I should also note, I'm currently rooted with my bootloader unlocked, and still no issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I gave up in the end because my device is Japan Softbank with bootloader unlocking not allowed. Crossflashing instructions have alot of "you can", "I think" but no definite root-to-fruit guide so I may convert it to global model and BL unlock without losing imei / 4G. Thank you for taking time to write the clarification.
dark_prince said:
I gave up in the end because my device is Japan Softbank with bootloader unlocking not allowed. Crossflashing instructions have alot of "you can", "I think" but no definite root-to-fruit guide so I may convert it to global model and BL unlock without losing imei / 4G. Thank you for taking time to write the clarification.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't actually know if that would work... I don't mean to give you another indefinite answer, but I tried that once on a Japanese Xperia 10 II. I know it's a different device, but it may still apply in your situation. I would still try it, though. Worse case scenario, you have to use Sony's repair tool to get back to stock.
(Also, if you're interested in a non Japanese model, I am currently selling my 5 II.)
SomeRandomGuy212 said:
I don't actually know if that would work... I don't mean to give you another indefinite answer, but I tried that once on a Japanese Xperia 10 II. I know it's a different device, but it may still apply in your situation. I would still try it, though. Worse case scenario, you have to use Sony's repair tool to get back to stock.
(Also, if you're interested in a non Japanese model, I am currently selling my 5 II.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am from Pakistan so it's gonna cost me double the actual price to pay customs taxes and get it cleared for use in-country. Our country has a rule about only the devices which are approved after paying hefty taxes, are permitted on Pakistan's cellular operators.
This was discussed before, in short you seem to lose out certain manufacturer keys and your phone remembers you have unlocked its bootloader before. As for functionality, iirc they seem to come back after relocking.
More info: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/closed-delete.4177209/post-87242833