How do I root? (Detailed instructions please) [PIE] [IGNORE THIS THREAD] - Sony Xperia XZ Premium Questions & Answers

Hi, I've been meaning to root my phone for a long time and I'm finally getting around to it. I've read a few of the guides here, but I don't understand completely, and I don't want to risk messing anything up.
I've got an Xperia XZ Premium (obviously), dual sim. The build number is 47.2.A.4.41 (I know, I keep putting off the updates).
I don't really know where to progress from there. I've got my internal storage [/storage/emulated/0] backed up on my computer (using Syncthing). I've got the apks of the apps that I want to keep, on my computer (I'm wanting to rid myself of Google as much as possible).
Before I start, what software do I need? What ROM should I use? My aims are for customisation and maximum freedom on my device.
EDIT: I just wasn't searching hard enough. Sorry for being another daft newbie with a "how do I root" thread. I thought I had looked everywhere at the time though. Idk. But yeah, sorry for the pointless thread, and if the admins have to go lock this now.
I've seen Newsflasher, TWRP, and Magisk mentioned around. I get what Newsflasher does, but not the others. What do they do? What versions should I use, and how do I use them?
I want to know how to go about every step, if that's possible. I'm still new to messing with smartphones in this way.
Sorry I'm a bit clueless, and thanks in advance!

To obtain root, first unlock your bootloader.
Then install TWRP via flash tool or adb
Instal magisk manager. Apk and downoad magisk. Zip from that apk
Flash via TWRP
Done!

Related

Why do you need ClockworkMod?

Why do you need to set up a recovery or cwm for your phone after it's been rooted?
Almost all of the Kernels and ROM's are installed/Flashed through the Clock Work Custom Recovery. Plus you can use it to do Nandroid backups and clear cache and so on. It's really a great utility to have.
Ok thanks. I'm just really nervous about trying to CwM my phone again cause last week I had to get a new phone cause I did something wrong.
Do you think you could possibly give me step by step instructions on how to properly recover my phone using CwM? I'm not the brightest person and Im kinda clueless with all of this stuff.
EDIT:
Will this do the trick?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=997359
If I do this is my phone ready?
ketchkev000 said:
Ok thanks. I'm just really nervous about trying to CwM my phone again cause last week I had to get a new phone cause I did something wrong.
Do you think you could possibly give me step by step instructions on how to properly recover my phone using CwM? I'm not the brightest person and Im kinda clueless with all of this stuff.
EDIT:
Will this do the trick?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=997359
If I do this is my phone ready?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First of all, most people around here aren't experts when they begin this process - but they definitely AT LEAST have a clue - so I suggest you take some time doing research before you even attempt any of these things. If you're not wanting to do so, try to find someone that you know that has done some modding and see if they can help you. Our references around here are pretty clear and cover all bases, so there shouldn't be too many questions to ask after reading around.
To answer your question, that thread you linked has an odin package that includes a custom recovery (clockworkmod) along with a complete 2.2 stock image, so it would be a good place to start.
Do you need to use cwm if you just wanna use apps that require your phone to be rooted? Sorry for all of the questions.
CWM and Rooting aren't really connected. Some background info, from what I've learned thus far:
Rooting just changes a couple files in the OS portion of Android to allow you to have Superuser access (like Administrator on a Windows machine). All of that goes on in the OS partition.
CWM Recovery, its full, proper name, is a custom Recovery. The default recovery allows just a factory reset for the most part. CWM Recovery allows that, but also allows many more options; clearing user/Dalvik cache, performing Nandroid backups and restores, enabling or disabling Voodoo (note that you need to have a separate Voodoo-compatible kernel installed), flashing things from ZIP files on your SD card, and so on.
The short answer then is no, you don't even need to think about CWM if all you want to do is root your phone and use apps that require it to be rooted.
ketchkev000 said:
Do you need to use cwm if you just wanna use apps that require your phone to be rooted? Sorry for all of the questions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you are just wanting to use apps that require root access then no you don't have to use CWM. You need CWM if you are going to flash a kernel or ROM or any other Mod for your phone. Rooting and CWM are two different things. As long as your phone is rooted, then you shouldn't have trouble using apps that reuire root access, with or without CWM on your phone. At least I didn't when I first began doing this stuff. Granted Im still a noob to an extent but my phone was rooted for a long time before I ever installed CWM and I never had an issue with the root apps
Edit: didnt' mean to be redundant. Chromewolf posted while I was typing mine
add144 said:
I think its full, proper name would be ClockworkMod Recovery
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damnit! I needed to have found someone else I could have bet money on that not only would I get corrected on that, but that it would be by add. No money for me. XD
But seriously, while add is correct on the matter of semantics, the point I was trying to make is that CWM is just a custom Recovery (which I've sort of taken to needlessly capitalizing lately to emphasize the difference a bit more), as opposed to an app or something.
Brief off-topic: A present for you add, especially if you're a gamer. I hope you lol at it, I know I always do (and I'm the *functional* rules lawyer of the group, LOL), and I'm not the one who wears it!
http://www.warehouse23.com/item.html?id=OWD45013-2XL

GS3DebugFSRoot Bloat Free?

My first post!!!
Anyway, I wanted to know if the GS3DebugFSRoot rooting method removes all the bloat on the phone? Should I just go with this method or should I go the Odin method?
MisterBigs said:
My first post!!!
Anyway, I wanted to know if the GS3DebugFSRoot rooting method removes all the bloat on the phone? Should I just go with this method or should I go the Odin method?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, Welcome to XDA!
Back to your question, I am pretty sure that the GS3DebugFSRoot rooting method does not remove all the bloat from the phone. I personally think that the rooting method is better than the odin method, because it is faster and is a smaller download (waaaay smaller). However, the root you get from GS3DebugFSRoot is as good as any other root (because of the way root works). You can use that root access to remove the bloat you do not want.
In addition, after using Noxious Ninja's root method, you can use the root you get to flash a recovery to your phone, which you can use from there to flash many roms/mods/hacks/themes/etc such as CyanogenMod
It doesn't remove anything, just adds root/SU.
Thanks mustbepbs and yosterwp.
yosterwp, you lost me there. Isn't here a major thread of bricking or some other damage to the phone if I start removing some of the bloat myself? If I root the phone how would I know what can be safely removed?
Here is a list of what I'm looking for:
I want to be able to install APKs
I don't want any of the bloat from Verizon or Samsung
I would like to us HotSpot tethering
I don't think I need any custom mods
I do would like the ability to set it back to stock (with no trace of it having been rooted if possible)
Whoops! I guess a went a bit ahead of myself in that post. I'll look into your list in the order the criteria is put.
1. Umm, I believe you can install any apk you want even without root access (Go to Settings > Security > Unknown Sources and check the box). Now if the application requires SU, that's a different story and need SU access.
2. [This answers one of your main concerns too] I forgot where I found this thread, but I bookmarked this spreadsheet on Google Docs. It is a table showing what is safe to remove, what's risky to remove, and what you should not remove. However, if you are rooting for the sake of flashing a custom ROM, then you should forget removing the bloat, as the custom rom should be devoid of bloat to start.
3. HotSpot Tethering should already be on your phone without root or anything... Go to Settings > Mobile Hotspot.
3.5. If you are talking about not using that (because your plan prohibits it) --I'd rather not be the one who encourages violating contracts...
4. If you want to return to stock without a trace of being rooted, get ready for a HUGE download. Go to this thread and use your preferred downloading method. And remember to grab Odin from the link on the page. Thank the OP if you can. Then boot your phone into download mode. [(in computer with phone plugged in) adb reboot download] and then fire up Odin. In odin, hit PDA and then navigate to the large download. Finally just to make sure the flash counter appears to have not changed, go to this thread.
You should be good to go from there. I make no guarantee that my instructions will work for you, but it should point you in the right direction. And if you have any questions, let the forum know!
Wow! thanks for all the info.
One more question. What's your take on whether I need a Recovery tool?
I'm a software developer (web and Windows) and am planning on getting into coding on Android so I'm also looking for a crash course for that too. If you have a link for that I would greatly appreciate it.
MisterBigs said:
Wow! thanks for all the info.
One more question. What's your take on whether I need a Recovery tool?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just have Odin installed and on hand. While the easy root solution is nice, it's still a good idea to be familiar with Odin as you're going to NEED it if you get yourself in a pickle or want to go back to fully stock.
MisterBigs said:
Wow! thanks for all the info.
One more question. What's your take on whether I need a Recovery tool?
I'm a software developer (web and Windows) and am planning on getting into coding on Android so I'm also looking for a crash course for that too. If you have a link for that I would greatly appreciate it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If by recovery tool, you mean Odin, then i definitely would suggest getting Odin and the stock images for your phone. Hopefully you will never need it, but it is always good to have on hand. Familiarize yourself with it, especially if you are rooted.
If you are talking about a recovery partition, that is a definite must have when rooted! You can make complete backups of your phone in case something goes wrong as well. And it can do much more.
Now for the android crash course
If you are talking about developing apps, there is a user on YouTube, mybringback, who does excellent videos on developing apps on android for absolute beginners like me. I am not the greatest Dev (in C++ and Java), but his videos gave me a good foot into Java.
If you are talking about developing for the actual android system, then honestly, I have no clue. Many places will tell you how to download and build the source, but not much else... I am still trying to find a site that explains the source...
Hope that helps
Sent from my SCH-I535 using xda app-developers app
Cool. Thanks guys.
I'll be watching some videos now

newb: after root then what

Hi,
So I think this thread is pretty common to most other phones, but I couldn't really find a stickied one or anything of the sorts? After using the search function to the best of my ability, I would like to begin a thread on what's most important after rooting.
From what I understand, Supersu and BusyBox are a must (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1709296&highlight=no+such+file+or+directory)
Then, I went to remove the animation and music from startup (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1645818&highlight=
remove+startup&page=2)
Last, I attempted this but I don't know if it actually works. This one-click tether tool has me guessing at its methodologies, but it seems to be working at the moment so I am happy? Haven't actually tested it, but here is link I used: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1677261
Debranding seems like a great idea! http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1634171 (edit1)
Unlocking bootloader, taken from the huge index of guides, but specifically this one. (edit2)
Getting TWRP, from their website: I used the automated one because I tried downloading and launching with no luck. Backing up currently, very easy through Goo Manager; all I did was click "boot to recovery" or whatever from the main page of the app. (edit3)
Here is how to disable software update/upgrade and generally protect yourself from AT&T updating your phone (don't know how to describe it) (edit4)
I humbly submit all the knowledge I have of my phone to the rest of the users. My technical experience is limited, am scared of recommended bootloader unlocks, but am willing to help bundle for newbies like me.
And thank you devs and mods for making this all come together!
(edit1) Because I was looking in the wrong section, I found this thread about the post I made later. Hopefully someone can learn from my mistake? For mod, should this be placed into Q&A at this point? Thanks!
(edit2) Having lots of fun just exploring what other people have recommended me do. So far, got root access and unlocked bootloader, am in the process of getting the "flash recovery" or something to that extent? Unsure of how much more research I should do before continuing to dive in! Thanks for all the input, will keep updating if only to provide log for myself, hoping that some users will find this helpful still
(edit3) Found time to play with TWRP! Really want to get the Sense 4.1 stuff, but scared!
(edit4) Forgot to update with the old post I found to work around the system update thing.
(edit5) useful thread I'm reading through for more information on odex/deodex, am about to update again soon so that I can explore roms and the such!
nutnub said:
Hi,
So I think this thread is pretty common to most other phones, but I couldn't really find a stickied one or anything of the sorts? After using the search function to the best of my ability, I would like to begin a thread on what's most important after rooting.
From what I understand, Supersu and BusyBox are a must (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1709296&highlight=no+such+file+or+directory)
Then, I went to remove the animation and music from startup (taken from http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1645818&highlight=
remove+startup&page=2)
Last, I attempted this but I don't know if it actually works. This one-click tether tool has me guessing at its methodologies, but it seems to be working at the moment so I am happy? Haven't actually tested it, but here is link I used: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1677261
Request: if someone could divulge how to remove the annoying Software Update message/prompt, I would be much obliged
I humbly submit all the knowledge I have of my phone to the rest of the users. My technical experience is limited, am scared of recommended bootloader unlocks, but am willing to help bundle for newbies like me.
And thank you devs and mods for making this all come together!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guessing you have AT&T HOX and you rooted it, next steps are explained here - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1671237 ....
Have fun
Sent from my SGH-I777 using Tapatalk 2
if your on att, use the link above my post. you want to go in this order.
root>super cid>unlock bootloader>flash recovery>make backup>save Sd card contents to PC>flash a rom "optional"
frozen at system update
XsMagical said:
if your on att, use the link above my post. you want to go in this order.
root>super cid>unlock bootloader>flash recovery>make backup>save Sd card contents to PC>flash a rom "optional"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm in a little bit of a pickle because I left my phone alone and luckily when I came back, I stopped the system update download at about 50%. So I'm paranoid to turn on any radio function. Would you happen to know if the methods you used above will disable the system update (permanently)?
As soon as I can get off this dilemma, I do want to try to unlock the bootloader, though it is a bit intimidating to realize that I could break my warranty if I fail...
Thanks in advance! Learning lots from this grand adventure with my AT&T HOX
Do a factory reset for now then run setup, after that go to system updates and uncheck, auto update or what ever it says. That will hold you off for now
Sent from my Nocturnal'd ONE XL Running Sense 4.1
If your rooted, use a file manager, go to the /cache folder and delete the chunk of the ota that downloaded, then untick sys. Updates in settings. Just a 2nd method.
if your rooted iI would do a factory reset and then use the one click unlock bootloader method to unlock the bootloader. then from the play store download Goo manager and from there flash the twrp recovery and finally flash a custom roms i recommend the nocturnal rom
edit3
XsMagical said:
if your on att, use the link above my post. you want to go in this order.
root>super cid>unlock bootloader>flash recovery>make backup>save Sd card contents to PC>flash a rom "optional"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kt086 said:
if your rooted iI would do a factory reset and then use the one click unlock bootloader method to unlock the bootloader. then from the play store download Goo manager and from there flash the twrp recovery and finally flash a custom roms i recommend the nocturnal rom
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can either of you point me to where to figure out all these rom things? To be honest, I just want to ask you guys straight out but I feel that's disrespectful to all the knowledge you have. I'm seeking more information about how the flashing thing works, whether it wipes everything outside of my twrp backup and/or whether they're exclusive to anything to that effect. Specifically, I'm debating between "[ROM][8/3] - Stock Rooted AT&T 2.20.502.7 - Android 4.0.4 - Odex or De-Odex", "[ROM][AT&T][08/18/12][2.29.207.1]Sandstorm_v2.1", and "[ROM][8/17] Stock Rooted 2.29.207.1 - Sense 4.1! o2 German Carrier!"
Any place that you can point me in the right direction would help me (and other readers for this post). Thanks again so much!
nutnub said:
Can either of you point me to where to figure out all these rom things? To be honest, I just want to ask you guys straight out but I feel that's disrespectful to all the knowledge you have. I'm seeking more information about how the flashing thing works, whether it wipes everything outside of my twrp backup and/or whether they're exclusive to anything to that effect. Specifically, I'm debating between "[ROM][8/3] - Stock Rooted AT&T 2.20.502.7 - Android 4.0.4 - Odex or De-Odex", "[ROM][AT&T][08/18/12][2.29.207.1]Sandstorm_v2.1", and "[ROM][8/17] op Stock Rooted 2.29.207.1 - Sense 4.1! o2 German Carrier!"
Any place that you can point me in the right direction would help me (and other readers for this post). Thanks again so much!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
XDA is not a help site, and we don't encourage members to create help threads just to get someone else to show you, what you could have looked up yourself. The answers are there, if you put some effort into it. This is the wrong section, btw.
Thread Closed
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice"
Sent from my HTC One X, using XDA Premium.

[Completed] Question About Rooting As A Beginner And With A Mac

Hello,
I hope you are doing well!
I am looking to be pointed in the right direction as someone who is brand new to rooting and has done some research but is still confused by the process.
I am looking to improve the performance of my Samsung Galaxy S 5. I researched a little about rooting and came across Cyanogenmod. Essentially, I'm looking to install it on my phone, however getting from point A, having a basic phone, to point B, having a rooted phone with Cyanogenmod, has been a little trickier than I thought. I am stuck honestly. I apologize for not knowing essentially anything. I stayed up all night trying to figure this out and it seems every website has a different set of instructions and they have their own complexities, for example, many of them are for Windows, and I could not find any for Mac users. Is there one reliable set of instructions you know that are best suited for someone who has never rooted before?
From my understanding, I first need to root my phone, flash it, and install Cyanogenmod. This all seems much easier than it looks. To me at least. I came across a rooting tool, which I believe is developed by XDA, called CF-Auto-Root. The only problem is it requires you to install another program called Odin which is only for Windows users.
Basically, is there a guide out there that explains step by step how to root, flash, and install ROMs AND that is Mac friendly?
Another question I have is about the pre-loaded google apps that come with the phone. As I understand, once I run or boot from Cyanogenmod, I won't have any of the google apps, meaning I will not have the Play Store installed. There is a GApps pack that comes with many of the google apps which can also be installed using the recovery menu. Is this difficult?
Thank you for your patience and your help in advance! I really tried to avoid going to forums because I know people get tired and frustrated when new people post questions without researching. I feel I have all the research done, I know what I need to do, I just do not know how. Most guides are dependent on the user having preexisting knowledge about rooting, which I do not have.
Here are my phone specs:
Samsung Galaxy S5 T-Mobile
Model Number: SM-G900T3
Android Version: 6.0.1
Build Number: MMB29.G900T3UVS3GPI1
I want to do the heavy lifting, just please show me the way!
Thanks again!
RansomRenso said:
Hello,
I hope you are doing well!
I am looking to be pointed in the right direction as someone who is brand new to rooting and has done some research but is still confused by the process.
I am looking to improve the performance of my Samsung Galaxy S 5. I researched a little about rooting and came across Cyanogenmod. Essentially, I'm looking to install it on my phone, however getting from point A, having a basic phone, to point B, having a rooted phone with Cyanogenmod, has been a little trickier than I thought. I am stuck honestly. I apologize for not knowing essentially anything. I stayed up all night trying to figure this out and it seems every website has a different set of instructions and they have their own complexities, for example, many of them are for Windows, and I could not find any for Mac users. Is there one reliable set of instructions you know that are best suited for someone who has never rooted before?
From my understanding, I first need to root my phone, flash it, and install Cyanogenmod. This all seems much easier than it looks. To me at least. I came across a rooting tool, which I believe is developed by XDA, called CF-Auto-Root. The only problem is it requires you to install another program called Odin which is only for Windows users.
Basically, is there a guide out there that explains step by step how to root, flash, and install ROMs AND that is Mac friendly?
Another question I have is about the pre-loaded google apps that come with the phone. As I understand, once I run or boot from Cyanogenmod, I won't have any of the google apps, meaning I will not have the Play Store installed. There is a GApps pack that comes with many of the google apps which can also be installed using the recovery menu. Is this difficult?
Thank you for your patience and your help in advance! I really tried to avoid going to forums because I know people get tired and frustrated when new people post questions without researching. I feel I have all the research done, I know what I need to do, I just do not know how. Most guides are dependent on the user having preexisting knowledge about rooting, which I do not have.
Here are my phone specs:
Samsung Galaxy S5 T-Mobile
Model Number: SM-G900T3
Android Version: 6.0.1
Build Number: MMB29.G900T3UVS3GPI1
I want to do the heavy lifting, just please show me the way!
Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Greetings and welcome to xda. First of all most custom roms are pre rooted so you just need to install a custom recovery like twrp then use this to flash your custom rom. All CM based roms will also provide a link to a google apps package which you install in the same way as the custom rom (flashing through recovery). Installing a custom recovery is slightly more complicated with a mac than windows pc as you will need to use heilmdall but once you have your custom recovery installed everything else can be done through the phone.
Anyway if you ask your questions here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s5/help
the experts there will be able to guide you
Good Luck
Sawdoctor
sawdoctor said:
Greetings and welcome to xda. First of all most custom roms are pre rooted so you just need to install a custom recovery like twrp then use this to flash your custom rom. All CM based roms will also provide a link to a google apps package which you install in the same way as the custom rom (flashing through recovery). Installing a custom recovery is slightly more complicated with a mac than windows pc as you will need to use heilmdall but once you have your custom recovery installed everything else can be done through the phone.
Anyway if you ask your questions here
http://forum.xda-developers.com/galaxy-s5/help
the experts there will be able to guide you
Good Luck
Sawdoctor
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you so much!!!
I will head over there and post my question.
Thanks again!
RansomRenso said:
Thank you so much!!!
I will head over there and post my question.
Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any time :good::good: If there is anything that you are unsure with don't hesitate to ask

Beginner in need of help with rooting and some clarification on Magisk/TWRP/recovery

Hello all,
I got my Oneplus6 recently, for the first time using android. I've had an old iPhone for forever.
I like the phone but I'm so far not really happy with the android version (Oreo).
For example: I pick the dark theme from the settings, and my notification tray will stay bright white. I really don't like this. Then I went ahead to try a couple of apps to dim the screen more than the default will allow (it's too bright for my taste). They worked fine, untill I pulled down the notification tray. The contrast feels like staring directly into the sun!
After learning that google now apparently blocks overlays on the notification tray, I figured my only option is to root. Also I would like to use a systemwide adblock and YT Vanced, and maybe some other cool (beginner friendly) things that require a root. However, I would very much like to keep basic functionality, mobile signal, using banking apps, and so on. I don't watch netflix or amazon, only youtube and sometimes twitch, so the L1 and L3 things are not something I worry about.
For the past 5 days or so I've been reading these forums, reddit, and researching the web for information about unlocking,rooting and so on. But I still have a couple of questions, hopefully you experienced users can help a noobie out! I really want to learn.
Currently on these forums, as far as I can see, there are ways of rooting with Magisk and (unofficial) TWRP, the latter also making a custom recovery.
Is this TWRP custom recovery something I need, when I want to keep using OxygenOS? Keep in mind I'm only really looking to apply a black theme on it all, including that blasted notification tray.
If I go with the Magisk root ( https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/oneplus-6-magisk-root-oos-5-1-5-t3794440 ), do I still need a custom recovery? I think that is what TWRP is for. Say I want to remove my root and go back to factory default. Can I do that with the stock recovery?
Is it good to go with the guide I linked, or is it better to use the TWRP method described here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/oneplus-6-unlock-bootloader-flash-twrp-t3792643
What are the major differences between them?
Should I wait until an official TWRP is released and unlock/root then?
I'm sorry if these are very silly things to ask. Keep in mind I've only been using an android device for the first time, ever, since a couple of days. I'm okay with tinkering with it while following a guide to make sure I don't brick or anything. Also I've been looking for a complete beginner guide to unlocking and rooting, but all I can seem to find are very outdated guides.
Thank you for taking the time to read!
DampDeceiver said:
Hello all,
I got my Oneplus6 recently, for the first time using android. I've had an old iPhone for forever.
I like the phone but I'm so far not really happy with the android version (Oreo).
For example: I pick the dark theme from the settings, and my notification tray will stay bright white. I really don't like this. Then I went ahead to try a couple of apps to dim the screen more than the default will allow (it's too bright for my taste). They worked fine, untill I pulled down the notification tray. The contrast feels like staring directly into the sun!
After learning that google now apparently blocks overlays on the notification tray, I figured my only option is to root. Also I would like to use a systemwide adblock and YT Vanced, and maybe some other cool (beginner friendly) things that require a root. However, I would very much like to keep basic functionality, mobile signal, using banking apps, and so on. I don't watch netflix or amazon, only youtube and sometimes twitch, so the L1 and L3 things are not something I worry about.
For the past 5 days or so I've been reading these forums, reddit, and researching the web for information about unlocking,rooting and so on. But I still have a couple of questions, hopefully you experienced users can help a noobie out! I really want to learn.
Currently on these forums, as far as I can see, there are ways of rooting with Magisk and (unofficial) TWRP, the latter also making a custom recovery.
Is this TWRP custom recovery something I need, when I want to keep using OxygenOS? Keep in mind I'm only really looking to apply a black theme on it all, including that blasted notification tray.
If I go with the Magisk root ( https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/oneplus-6-magisk-root-oos-5-1-5-t3794440 ), do I still need a custom recovery? I think that is what TWRP is for. Say I want to remove my root and go back to factory default. Can I do that with the stock recovery?
Is it good to go with the guide I linked, or is it better to use the TWRP method described here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/oneplus-6-unlock-bootloader-flash-twrp-t3792643
What are the major differences between them?
Should I wait until an official TWRP is released and unlock/root then?
I'm sorry if these are very silly things to ask. Keep in mind I've only been using an android device for the first time, ever, since a couple of days. I'm okay with tinkering with it while following a guide to make sure I don't brick or anything. Also I've been looking for a complete beginner guide to unlocking and rooting, but all I can seem to find are very outdated guides.
Thank you for taking the time to read!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Look in the forums of how to unlock, root and install TWRP recovery. I actually enjoy system wide black themes so this is what I would recommend.
You need to unlock your bootloader if you had not done so already. In the forum I suggested, under the rooting section, you need to grab the bootable Magisk file. You will have to put your OP6 into fastboot mode and open up a command prompt and type- fastboot boot "name of img file" to boot using that img file.
All these instructions are in the forum regarding unlocking and rooting the device. If you are only interested in obtaining a system wide black theme while also keeping everything in good shape, you need to unlock your bootloader and root with Magisk. Do not worry about installing TWRP as you do not need this for your certain needs. After you root with Magisk, you can use an app call Adaway to block ads. To obtain a system wide black/dark theme, you need to go to the Google Play Store and download an app called "Substratum" after you obtain root. It will only work with root. Also download an app called "Swift Black". This is the theme you will be applying.
I would look at the forums again, the one I am talking about is up there at the top of the page when you look at the OP6 forums. It is clearly labeled for unlocking, rooting and installing TWRP recovery. You are only interested in unlocking your bootloader and installing Magisk, that's it. It has all the instructions you need. Once you are there, install the apps above from the Google Play Store and apply the theme using Substratum. Hope this helps!
DampDeceiver said:
Hello all,
I got my Oneplus6 recently, for the first time using android. I've had an old iPhone for forever.
I like the phone but I'm so far not really happy with the android version (Oreo).
For example: I pick the dark theme from the settings, and my notification tray will stay bright white. I really don't like this. Then I went ahead to try a couple of apps to dim the screen more than the default will allow (it's too bright for my taste). They worked fine, untill I pulled down the notification tray. The contrast feels like staring directly into the sun!
After learning that google now apparently blocks overlays on the notification tray, I figured my only option is to root. Also I would like to use a systemwide adblock and YT Vanced, and maybe some other cool (beginner friendly) things that require a root. However, I would very much like to keep basic functionality, mobile signal, using banking apps, and so on. I don't watch netflix or amazon, only youtube and sometimes twitch, so the L1 and L3 things are not something I worry about.
For the past 5 days or so I've been reading these forums, reddit, and researching the web for information about unlocking,rooting and so on. But I still have a couple of questions, hopefully you experienced users can help a noobie out! I really want to learn.
Currently on these forums, as far as I can see, there are ways of rooting with Magisk and (unofficial) TWRP, the latter also making a custom recovery.
Is this TWRP custom recovery something I need, when I want to keep using OxygenOS? Keep in mind I'm only really looking to apply a black theme on it all, including that blasted notification tray.
If I go with the Magisk root ( https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/oneplus-6-magisk-root-oos-5-1-5-t3794440 ), do I still need a custom recovery? I think that is what TWRP is for. Say I want to remove my root and go back to factory default. Can I do that with the stock recovery?
Is it good to go with the guide I linked, or is it better to use the TWRP method described here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/oneplus-6-unlock-bootloader-flash-twrp-t3792643
What are the major differences between them?
Should I wait until an official TWRP is released and unlock/root then?
I'm sorry if these are very silly things to ask. Keep in mind I've only been using an android device for the first time, ever, since a couple of days. I'm okay with tinkering with it while following a guide to make sure I don't brick or anything. Also I've been looking for a complete beginner guide to unlocking and rooting, but all I can seem to find are very outdated guides.
Thank you for taking the time to read!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you should totally root it!
This is how I did it!
Note u will break warranty, and unlocking bootloader will completely wipe ur phone(even the storage memory)
Download the following:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/on...ol-tool-one-driversunlocktwrpfactory-t3791316 (install this on computer)
and https://drive.google.com/open?id=15mXZz4OrwRGXz5JCKeYjwukQf0raWnOb
in your phone go to settings> about phone>Select "Build number" 4 times.
Then in Settings>Developer Options> turn on "OEM unlocking", "USB debugging" and for convenience "Advanced rooting".
Click reboot and Select "Bootloader"
Plug your phone to your computer and open the software you installed and click "check device" Then unlock, on your phone you will have to use volume buttons to go up and down and then the power button to select.
(Note, never relock with custom firmware or root on it, recommend u only lock it when 100% stock or u can permanently brick if something happens when ur rooted.)
Now on that software, you had click advanced options and click "Open a free terminal with adb and fastboot privileges".
Extract that zip file and move it to your desktop.
Type: cd "C:\Users\Bradley Gregory\Desktop" or if its in the folder: cd "C:\Users\Bradley Gregory\Desktop\All files for TWRP"
Then type: fastboot flash boot_a twrp.img , (Your using the same twrp.img)
Then again: fastboot flash boot_b twrp.img
After this look at your phone and use the volume buttons till it says recovery and press power button.
If it asks for a password type ur pin in from phone, and change language before pressing checkmark.
Then copy everything from that zip onto ur phone(when ur in the temporary recovery)
Then click install, find file location of where u put your stuff on. bottom right button click (img file) then click "boot.img" then select boot.
Now click the bottom right button to change back to zips.
Flash zips in this order
1. Flash TWRPWorkingInstaller.zip
2. Flash TWRP-BLUE-FIX.zip
3. Flash Root.zip or you will bootloop
after you can reboot your phone. Open magdisk app >settings and under update settings change update channel to beta. then you can go to the app home and install directly the new update.
(optional) in magisk select download and search busybox and click install
Hope this helps!
PM me for any questions!
(don't factory reset with custom boot. also in recovery, u can now make backups of your entire phone if error happens)
I recommend u download this file:
https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-6/how-to/rom-stock-fastboot-roms-oneplus-6-t3796665
if u ever hard brick this will wipe ur phone and make it normal again(wipes internal memory)
Personally, I would hold off on doing anything until we have an official twrp and more development. Right now, the solutions we've got are unforgiving. People are bricking their phones right and left because they missed a step, and the unbricking process is more involved than other android phones at the moment.
Also, before you do anything, I would take a moment to assess your computer literacy and comfort with mucking around in the system files of your devices. If you're used to things that "just work" like on iOS, you may not like what you find once you cross over into modding. If you do enjoy that kind of stuff, good, but the tradeoff for greater freedom is more work in keeping your phone updated and operational.
Don't do it!! Hold off,. I am an old hat, since 2005, and I spent the whole day yesterday fixing the brick that I turned my OnePlus 6 into. It's a pain and very easy to do.
Just wait two weeks.
Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk
Personally, I would hold off on doing anything until we have an official twrp and more development. Right now, the solutions we've got are unforgiving. People are bricking their phones right and left because they missed a step, and the unbricking process is more involved than other android phones at the moment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree. I've been rooting and modding devices (mostly Oneplus) the last couple of years, but with the OP6 things have changed. A/B partitioning have made it somehow more complicated, at least compared to what I'm used to.
Personally I pulled the trigger anyway, i.e. not waiting for an official version of TWRP. I got TWRP and root with the method described in post 70 here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76633618&postcount=70
If and when you do that too I recommend you to install:
* Adaway (from XDA forum) to get rid of ads
* Substratum theme engine (from Play Store)
And then some Substratum themes:
* Ozone (from Play store) to theme Oneplus OS and apps
* Swift Black (from Play store) to theme other apps
And finally some Magisk modules:
* Youtube Vanced Magisk black themed (from Magisk repo) to get themed You tube, adfree and with picture-in-picture
* Viper4Android FX (from Magisk repo) to get much better audio
* OP_AlwaysOnDisplay_enabler (from OP5T XDA forum) to enable settings for Always On Display (if you want that)
https://www.xda-developers.com/enable-always-on-display-oneplus-6-oneplus-5-5t/
Is this TWRP custom recovery something I need, when I want to keep using OxygenOS? Keep in mind I'm only really looking to apply a black theme on it all, including that blasted notification tray.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I strongly recommend you to use a custom recovery (TWRP) if you root and install rooted apps. If you don't it will be difficult or impossible to recover if you get in trouble. For example, it is easy to uninstall Magisk modules or Substratum themes from the recovery in case they cause bootloops. And additionaly you can make full backups of your system in TWRP. A small hint for backups is to copy them to a safe place (computer or USB stick) in case you get into trouble with the internal storage on your phone.
The A/B partitioning has definitely made things more complicated, especially with respect to flashing. I've been rooting and modding here for 5+ years, and I'm taking it very slowly so far. Right now, you can't just fix things with a quick reflash of your rom. Even factory resets can brick you. This is not a phone for noobs at the moment.
iElvis said:
The A/B partitioning has definitely made things more complicated, especially with respect to flashing. I've been rooting and modding here for 5+ years, and I'm taking it very slowly so far. Right now, you can't just fix things with a quick reflash of your rom. Even factory resets can brick you. This is not a phone for noobs at the moment.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is an unbrick tool and fastboot ROMs to recover, but u r right, u just can't screw around with things like we used to due to u need a computer avail even if u bootloop
That, and there are some conflicting instructions flying around and some disagreements amongst the devs about how to do things. I would not want to be starting out with rooting on this phone tbh.
I agree with most posts here.
I've been flashing ever since the HD2 back in the days. I've really spend alot of nights fixing my phones from hard/soft bricks, never actually really broke one though.
But untill there are some stable recovery/root methods, I wouldn't want to start my android rooting experience with this phone right now. As some said, wait a couple of weeks.
Thank you everyone for replying! You've been a great help.
I figure I will wait for the official TWRP and a guide to install it by that time.
Until then I'll keep a close eye on these forums to keep learning. Cheers!
All of these guys are spot on with advice. I too have been doing this for awhile, however this is my first A/B partition phone. You definitely want TWRP. I can't count how many times I've installed a root program or tweaked a system file and messed up my device. Recovery is your friend! Make backups often!! (Once you get TWRP installed of course)
I will wait for TWRP official for sure now, but one last question.
It is possible to unlock the bootloader (that wipes all my data) right now, and not root, right? So I will just unlock it for the future when TWRP official is released and I can root w/o losing all my data?
It's safe to follow a guide to just unlock the bootloader as of right now?
Thanks again! Very much appreciated!!
DampDeceiver said:
I will wait for TWRP official for sure now, but one last question.
It is possible to unlock the bootloader (that wipes all my data) right now, and not root, right? So I will just unlock it for the future when TWRP official is released and I can root w/o losing all my data?
It's safe to follow a guide to just unlock the bootloader as of right now?
Thanks again! Very much appreciated!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I did. Unlock the bootloader to save from data loss later, but no recovery or root until things are a little more understood.
DampDeceiver said:
I will wait for TWRP official for sure now, but one last question.
It is possible to unlock the bootloader (that wipes all my data) right now, and not root, right? So I will just unlock it for the future when TWRP official is released and I can root w/o losing all my data?
It's safe to follow a guide to just unlock the bootloader as of right now?
Thanks again! Very much appreciated!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, you can unlock your bootloader and not root. You're correct that it will erase your data, but once it's unlocked you will be ready to root once official twrp and magisk root comes out.
You'll want to use Magisk because it keeps you compatible with Safety net, has root hide and really good modules as well to add stuff.
If you want a dark theme for now you can download Andromeda from the Play store, and hen substratum. It doesn't need root just some commands from your pc and adb. However it is a few dollars, so if you don't want to pay for that then you can just wait to root. The theme you'll want is swift black, but I use ozone as well. Swift black for some apps to be black theme, but ozone to get a custom accent color and dark theme for OOS quick settings, settings app, etc.
NateDev said:
Yes, you can unlock your bootloader and not root. You're correct that it will erase your data, but once it's unlocked you will be ready to root once official twrp and magisk root comes out.
You'll want to use Magisk because it keeps you compatible with Safety net, has root hide and really good modules as well to add stuff.
If you want a dark theme for now you can download Andromeda from the Play store, and hen substratum. It doesn't need root just some commands from your pc and adb. However it is a few dollars, so if you don't want to pay for that then you can just wait to root. The theme you'll want is swift black, but I use ozone as well. Swift black for some apps to be black theme, but ozone to get a custom accent color and dark theme for OOS quick settings, settings app, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is what i was about to type, use andromeda from play store and use substratum to theme whatever you like.
Unlocking the bootloader is required if you want root and/or custom recovery(TWRP).
Custom recovery is optional and root does not depend on it, nor does custom recovery depend on root either. What custom recovery gives you are mainly two things:
1. More features than a stock recovery.
2. Able to flash unsigned zip.
So if neither of these two really means something to you then you can stay with stock recovery.
The root procedure could be a bit different depends on whether you use a customer recovery or not.
If you do, then the root procedure usually is just as simple as flash a Magisk installation zip.
If you do not use a custom recovery, stay on the stock recovery, then the root procedure is different because the stock recovery does not allow you to flash an unsigned zip. The procedure is:
1. Obtain the stock boot image.
2. Install Magisk Manager and use it to patch the boot image.
3. Boot the phone with the patched boot image(fastboot boot patched_boot.img command), thus you get a temporarily rooted phone. Temporarily means you lost root after reboot because the patched boot image is not actually written to the ROM of your phone.
4. Now on the (temporarily) rooted phone, you have all the power to install the root permanently, by Magisk Manager.

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