Just bought a P3A, do I update prior to rooting - Google Pixel 3a Questions & Answers

I will take delivery of a new Pixel 3a later this week. I will thoroughly read through “How to root the Pixel 3a with or without twrp & take OTA updates once rooted” and “How to Root Your Pixel 3a and Install Magisk (on Pie & Q) with or without TWRP”. But before unlocking bootloader and rooting should I accept all updates first during the initial setup?

MrTooPhone said:
I will take delivery of a new Pixel 3a later this week. I will thoroughly read through “How to root the Pixel 3a with or without twrp & take OTA updates once rooted” and “How to Root Your Pixel 3a and Install Magisk (on Pie & Q) with or without TWRP”. But before unlocking bootloader and rooting should I accept all updates first during the initial setup?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes

bejunk said:
Yes
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. The little reading I have done so far, it sounds like you can not flash or boot TWRP in Android 10. Won't all the updates take me to 10? I will want to back up my ROMs.

MrTooPhone said:
Thanks. The little reading I have done so far, it sounds like you can not flash or boot TWRP in Android 10. Won't all the updates take me to 10? I will want to back up my ROMs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, i forgot as i dont use TWRP anymore.
Yes TWRP only works on Android 9.
However you can't install it like in the past time. You can only boot it via fastboot. You need to do this everytime you want to use TWRP. However when i tried it in past times it did not work well afaik, a full backup did not work at all.
So yeah try it with Android 9 first.
But with all the google backups nowadays i dont have the need for a nandroid (twrp backup)...
Especially as you can just reflash the stock image with deleting /data.
Here is the main thread, i think it will be more helpfull than i am https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-3a/development/twrp-3-3-1-pixel-3a-t3943413

The very first thing to do is minimal setup so you can enable developer settings and allow bootloader unlocking. That's a sticky setting, so then you can update, factory reset, etc. before actually unlocking the bootloader and rooting. Especially important if you're US/Verizon (don't put your SIM in until bootloader unlocking is enabled).

mike.s said:
The very first thing to do is minimal setup so you can enable developer settings and allow bootloader unlocking. That's a sticky setting, so then you can update, factory reset, etc. before actually unlocking the bootloader and rooting. Especially important if you're US/Verizon (don't put your SIM in until bootloader unlocking is enabled).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. So I read the two rooting threads I referenced above. I have always used TWRP in the past, but seeing it not supported in Android 10, I am considering skipping that. Do you think TWRP will support Android 10 in the future? I am a little nervous making changes without a backup. My plan would be to stick with a rooted stock at first than consider migrating to a custom ROM. Any recommendations are appreciated. Phone will be delivered tomorrow.

bejunk said:
But with all the google backups nowadays i dont have the need for a nandroid (twrp backup)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am not sure what you mean by "google backups nowadays". Is it the availability of stock ROMs?

MrTooPhone said:
I am not sure what you mean by "google backups nowadays". Is it the availability of stock ROMs?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No , I think most people use a TWRP backup because it restores you to a specifiic point with all your apps, user settings and your data in those apps.
Thats why i used it in the past times. Setiing up a phone in the past could be really time consuming and frustrating.
But nowadays, if you use the google backup (in Settings > System > Backup) (and the whatsapp one for messages - thtas the only messenger i use, but every other popular messager has a backup feature now) setting up the phone takes maybe 10 mins when i flash the factory image, it even gets my homescreen layout and my wallpaper back, also my settings. Apps which support that also keep their settings.
In the past i allways had a custom rom, because stock rom sucked. But with the Pixel theres no reason for me to use a custom rom anymore.
About root, i rooted my phone since i first used android, ca. 2010. But now I really dont need it anymore, so i just keep things stock.
---------- Post added at 16:03 ---------- Previous post was at 15:50 ----------
MrTooPhone said:
Thanks. So I read the two rooting threads I referenced above. I have always used TWRP in the past, but seeing it not supported in Android 10, I am considering skipping that. Do you think TWRP will support Android 10 in the future? I am a little nervous making changes without a backup. My plan would be to stick with a rooted stock at first than consider migrating to a custom ROM. Any recommendations are appreciated. Phone will be delivered tomorrow.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont think TWRP will be supported in the futur on A10. Google locked up /system and some other partitions the TWRP team needs to find new solutions but there id not much hope.
Did you buy your phone unlocked? If yes, the worst part you should be worried about is losing you app data from some apps. You cant really brick your phone. In the worst case you just need to flash a factory image.
You should know that rooting your phone will probably break google pay and banking apps. May i ask what did you want use root for?
I dunno, I really like Lineage OS, but it just feels like a downgraded stock rom.. (I used it before all the time on all phones before getting a pixel).
Also, for every update (monthly) you need to patch your boot.img, flash it, and the apply the update. Its some work which i dont think is worth it anymore.

bejunk said:
May i ask what did you want use root for?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the detailed reply. I am coming from a MotoG3 (rooted stock), a 2015 era phone. So a lot has changed. I really have not seen a mid range phone I really liked, so I jumped on the P3a when I heard the news they were being discontinued.
I use root mainly for Adfree, SD-Maid, and Titanium Backup. I used to use Cerberus until the developer reneged on a lifetime subscription. I don't mess with the system apps much, but I do keep a few apps frozen except for the times when I seldom need them.

Magisk is the best way to root your phone as it still passes the SafetyNet check and google pay and banking apps continue to work. There is an excellent thread here on how to do it.
[Guide] How to root the Pixel 3a with or without twrp & take OTA updates once rooted
Every month, I "uninstall" magisk (which really just restores the original boot files) and sideload the latest update, then I install the magisk-patched boot.img and my phone is rooted again.
To be honest, I don't miss twrp at all. adb and fastboot are all that's needed. The backup in android 10 is perfectly sufficient.
This phone is practically impossible to brick. I love my Pixel 3a, except for the one problem I had when the bottom speaker died and I had to have it repaired under warranty at the local ubreakifix in less than an hour.

MrTooPhone said:
Thanks for the detailed reply. I am coming from a MotoG3 (rooted stock), a 2015 era phone. So a lot has changed. I really have not seen a mid range phone I really liked, so I jumped on the P3a when I heard the news they were being discontinued.
I use root mainly for Adfree, SD-Maid, and Titanium Backup. I used to use Cerberus until the developer reneged on a lifetime subscription. I don't mess with the system apps much, but I do keep a few apps frozen except for the times when I seldom need them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I had that phone too It was pretty good for its time. I even replaced the screen once, but its really complicated on that phone... To your needs:
Adfree: you can setup a custom DNS server (i think it was adguards one) in the settings menu which will block all ads, so no real need anymore for adaway or root for this. Just google a bit.
Titanium backup: I does not work so well is what i heard and like said nowadays most apps backup over Google backup. With Android11 it will get even harder as /data partition is even more protected now. Not really worth it imho.
Froze system apps: Pixel Android is really barebones. The few apps which i dont need (like Google Music/Video PixelBuds app etc) you can just disable them in the settings. This will freeze them, its like uninstalling them, they wont show up at all.
SD Maid is great but only rooting it for using it, is not worth it. You can clear the cache of the apps which hoard a lot of data by yourself. Also, when you uninatll an app, it asks you if you want to delete your userdata as well. The phone takes care of the rest.
Cerberus: If you keep your bootloader locked, when your phone gets stolen, nobody can access your phone. Even if they reflash it, on first boot it will ask to login to the gmail last time set up. Theres no workaroud. Google aslo has a find my device thingy, wher you can track or delete your device remotly.
I would suggest to use your phone unrooted for some time, and if you really need to root it for something, you can still do it.
Welcome to team Pixel, mate!
(sorry my grammer im to lazy to double check it...)

@bejunk Just a not to say thanks again. I took your advice and did not root. However, I did flash with GrapheneOS and then re-locked the bootloader. Time will tell if I like it.

Related

What order for new phone?

So I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a G930F. Sorry for the noob question, but when it arrives, what should I do with it and in what order? End goal would be to be able to install custom roms easily when new roms are released.
I was thinking:
1. Flash new firmware
2. Enable OEM unlock from settings
3. Disable auto updates
4. Flash recovery TWRP
5. Wipe data
6. Root
7. Setup phone
Thoughts?
Also for the firmware, I'm going to be using this on US T-mobile. Should I do UK firmware or German T-Mobile?
Thanks
Any suggestions guys?
Sorry if this question sounds stupid. I've had my current phone (HTC One M7) for 3 years now and it's at a state where I can just flash a new rom whenever I want. It's been a long time since I did the initial setup of unlocking, installing the custom recovery and initial rooting that I can't really remember what I did and what order they have to be done. I just want to make sure I don't do them in the wrong order and have to redo any of the previous steps again.
Thanks
johnusesandroid said:
So I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a G930F. Sorry for the noob question, but when it arrives, what should I do with it and in what order? End goal would be to be able to install custom roms easily when new roms are released.
I was thinking:
1. Flash new firmware
2. Enable OEM unlock from settings
3. Disable auto updates
4. Flash recovery TWRP
5. Wipe data
6. Root
7. Setup phone
Thoughts?
Also for the firmware, I'm going to be using this on US T-mobile. Should I do UK firmware or German T-Mobile?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love root as well, but the S7 is so good, really doesn't require root at this point. If root is what you desire, you can look in the S7 forums, and they should walk you through what you should do, but your set-up doesn't seem bad. I still suggest sticking to the S7 at least for a week and see if you really need root. With Samsung's Theme store, launchers, and etc, besides removing bloat, having exposed and etc, not sure why its important to root at least at this point.
I'm not clear on whether the bootloader on the 930F can be unlocked; you might want to check on that first.
In terms of root, I still use Xposed and Titanium Backup. Yes, you can already hide the quick-connect icon, but the brightness slider is locked on there (SQL Editor needed to get rid of it, another root app). You can also use the fun features of root - I use Tasker to turn NFC on only for those apps that need it and turn it off when I don't, use Keepass2Android's automatic keyboard switching, etc.). I rooted mine within the first hour of having the phone home and turned on. The phone still isn't perfect, and honestly still not as flexible as many of us would like, but it's not a do or die situation anymore either.
Truth6199 said:
I love root as well, but the S7 is so good, really doesn't require root at this point. If root is what you desire, you can look in the S7 forums, and they should walk you through what you should do, but your set-up doesn't seem bad. I still suggest sticking to the S7 at least for a week and see if you really need root. With Samsung's Theme store, launchers, and etc, besides removing bloat, having exposed and etc, not sure why its important to root at least at this point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah I'm just the kind of guy who can't stand not having admin/root rights on my stuff :laugh:
but yeah a couple root only apps that I can't live without are xposed (and the hold power button to turn on flashlight mod), titanium backup, f.lux, etc...
databoy2k said:
I'm not clear on whether the bootloader on the 930F can be unlocked; you might want to check on that first.
In terms of root, I still use Xposed and Titanium Backup. Yes, you can already hide the quick-connect icon, but the brightness slider is locked on there (SQL Editor needed to get rid of it, another root app). You can also use the fun features of root - I use Tasker to turn NFC on only for those apps that need it and turn it off when I don't, use Keepass2Android's automatic keyboard switching, etc.). I rooted mine within the first hour of having the phone home and turned on. The phone still isn't perfect, and honestly still not as flexible as many of us would like, but it's not a do or die situation anymore either.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
awesome sounds like the kind of setup I would do, thanks
but the order of what I'm planning on doing is correct though, right? If I'm understanding them correctly, I need to do firmware before root since firmware flash would get me back to root-less stock I think. I need to do root right after twrp and data wipe because of that boot loop issue they described in the twrp thread. so firmware first, twrp second, then root third?
johnusesandroid said:
yeah I'm just the kind of guy who can't stand not having admin/root rights on my stuff :laugh:
but yeah a couple root only apps that I can't live without are xposed (and the hold power button to turn on flashlight mod), titanium backup, f.lux, etc...
awesome sounds like the kind of setup I would do, thanks
but the order of what I'm planning on doing is correct though, right? If I'm understanding them correctly, I need to do firmware before root since firmware flash would get me back to root-less stock I think. I need to do root right after twrp and data wipe because of that boot loop issue they described in the twrp thread. so firmware first, twrp second, then root third?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seems right. Plug your SIM in first by the way; the phone does a wipe when it gets a sim for the first time (not sure about thereafter; don't have a second sim to test with). But yes, your process is essentially what I did.

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.

Is it worth rooting the OnePlus 7?

Hi All.
I've got a OP 7 Pro which for the most part, am loving it, except the camera (Messing with GCam ports atm).
I usually root my handsets for the usual de-bloat / custom rom reasons. The last OnePlus I had, I rooted and installed TWRP. Didn't have much success with custom roms so ended up running pretty much stock (but could no longer update OTA for some reason). Since OP don't put loads of bloatware on, I din't mind so much, although I do like to mess around. I really want to be able to do full nand backup which requires unlocked bootloader = all data gone. I can handle reinstalling apps etc but loosing Google Authenticator is a pain in he ass. Do you guys think it is worth rooting at all? Is there a full backup technique that doesn't rquire unlocking bootloader / loosing current data?
I'm not particualrtly hopeful but any suggestions would be appreciaed.
Thanks.
Answered numerous times already. Please use the search box. https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-7-pro/help/worth-rooting-days-gain-t3937894
Root is a good way to start the new year on XDA! ??
Love root!!!
Short answer, yes
I have lived fine without rooting for years.
Have not bricked my device once since I stopped rooting, but why ask here ? People come here just to root devices, try ROMs, Kernels, Mods ....... This place is biased and they will tell you rooting in great everytime
hallo dare said:
Answered numerous times already. Please use the search box. https://forum.xda-developers.com/oneplus-7-pro/help/worth-rooting-days-gain-t3937894
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I read the thread you linked to. Nowhere do I see it discussing:
What all will be LOST by rooting besides Netflix 720P. (ie google pay etc and yes I know magisk has a "hide" feature but it fails on several common apps)
How the root can be accomplished without losing data or with a method to restore data lost from bootloader unlock.
Both questions were asked by the op in the original post.
Would like to know this too. I haven't rooted a device for many years, because I need the use of banking apps and Google Pay is my main (sometimes only) method of payment.
How reliable is custom kernels from hiding root?
famewolf said:
I read the thread you linked to. Nowhere do I see it discussing:
What all will be LOST by rooting besides Netflix 720P. (ie google pay etc and yes I know magisk has a "hide" feature but it fails on several common apps)
How the root can be accomplished without losing data or with a method to restore data lost from bootloader unlock.
Both questions were asked by the op in the original post.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have my OnePlus 7 Pro rooted just following the guides on here and my phone still has functioning Google Pay and full quality Netflix.
Pokemon Go was trickier to get it to not recognize the root, I had to setup Magisk Manager a specific way besides just hiding root from the app but other than that everything works great.
QuintonAjStevens said:
I have my OnePlus 7 Pro rooted just following the guides on here and my phone still has functioning Google Pay and full quality Netflix.
Pokemon Go was trickier to get it to not recognize the root, I had to setup Magisk Manager a specific way besides just hiding root from the app but other than that everything works great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How u have hd quality on netflix?This is not possible because when u unlock bootloaded u lose drm for hd.
johnnyman25 said:
How u have hd quality on netflix?This is not possible because when u unlock bootloaded u lose drm for hd.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Whoops. Didn't realize this was such a big problem. I assumed it was in full quality as I only tested it, but don't regularly use Netflix on my phone. After digging into the app it says I have Widevine L3 and can use only SD with no HDR.

what are the interesting things I can do after rooting my op6?

After leaving Samsung, I did not root my phone as never felt the need for it, as I used root for battery mods and roms.
So can anyone tell me that what interesting mods I can do after rooting my phone?
You can install custom ROMs which have extended features for your phone like changing what buttons do, having an always on display show different things, have shortcuts mapped etc. Custom kernels can manage your phone better whether you like more battery or more performance. Then you have magisk modules come in that can add further functionality and then Edxposed, F-droid the list goes on and on.
You can get rid of ads in your apps.
You can have modded youtube without any ads and other stuff.
Tons of stuff
i root because a few mods:
Viper4android
Call Recorder - not available in my country.
EdXposed with gravitybox - for little customizing
Youtube Vanced
i also root because i had oneplus 5 before which was not rooted and one day i messed up and couldnt get it to work again. i really tried everything - if i was rooted i probably could have fixed my op5.
How do you install new updates then?
Once the updates are out you can install them directly with your phone as you have been doing with any other phone.
The only thing is that after every update you have to root again your phone as the update 'delete' the root.
Nothing major, don't worry. Trust me, us, once you root you won't be able to have your phone unrooted anymore ?
If you are in doubt I suggest you to root it once and then, after a new update you can decide if root it again or not ?
If ur not willing to walk the mile of getting knowledge, dont root
You can use it to teleport to another dimension.
Jk jokes aside you have full control of your system and can do all kinds of modification which how you modify will make it awesome or perform worse.
@bibop80 @chintu1234 @whizeguy
I have rooted my phones for years when I used Samsung devices.
Samsung had issues with battery and performance so that time I had rooted my device.
But since I am using op6 I am so satisfied with the performance and battery, that's why I never rooted my device.
Now I am bored and want to try few mods, so I will root my phone.
I have never used magisk root method, and as I said it's been almost 2 years I rooted device, so I'll be happy if someone can guide me in detail and best root method, I am currently on latest fw android 10.
Thanks in advance!
I do agree with you about Samsung, that is why I passed to oneplus few years ago, the only thing I do miss is the camera quality.
A part of that, you'll be happy to have your phone rooted (Magisk is amazing!)
I suggest you the section of this forum GUIDES, NEWS AND DISCUSSION; once there you'll find the guide titled "OnePlus 6: Unlock Bootloader | Flash TWRP | Root | Nandroid & EFS Backup !!"
It looks more difficult than with Samsung but it isn't at all!
Good luck man and welcome to the Dark side
bebop80 said:
I do agree with you about Samsung, that is why I passed to oneplus few years ago, the only thing I do miss is the camera quality.
A part of that, you'll be happy to have your phone rooted (Magisk is amazing!)
I suggest you the section of this forum GUIDES, NEWS AND DISCUSSION; once there you'll find the guide titled "OnePlus 6: Unlock Bootloader | Flash TWRP | Root | Nandroid & EFS Backup !!"
It looks more difficult than with Samsung but it isn't at all!
Good luck man and welcome to the Dark side
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info, I checked the forum.
Kindly help me to understand few things -
Do I need to install Twrp tp install Magisk?
Will I lose any apps like snapchat?
You can root your phone also without installing the twrp (if you are not intended to deep mod your phone). I'd suggest anyway to install the twrp.
Yes, magisk is needed it can be compared as the supersu but with extended feautures.
If I don't mistake (I did unlock my bootloader on my 1st day I owned the oneplus) all data will be wiped and yes... You might loose your data.
If you can make a backup of your photos, videos and any extra file on a PC and after the unlock and root procedure you can restore them.
All other app can just be downloaded again.... ???
for people mentioning about adfree & background youtube, this can be done in a virgin phone also. just install the vanced apk.
JerryGoyal said:
for people mentioning about adfree & background youtube, this can be done in a virgin phone also. just install the vanced apk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am already using YouTube vanced, it's great.
bebop80 said:
You can root your phone also without installing the twrp (if you are not intended to deep mod your phone). I'd suggest anyway to install the twrp.
Yes, magisk is needed it can be compared as the supersu but with extended feautures.
If I don't mistake (I did unlock my bootloader on my 1st day I owned the oneplus) all data will be wiped and yes... You might loose your data.
If you can make a backup of your photos, videos and any extra file on a PC and after the unlock and root procedure you can restore them.
All other app can just be downloaded again.... ???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I guess I'll be doing this on next weekend. I'll post query if I have any doubts. Thanks!
I find that making phone calls with this device seem to be the thing that most people do
bebop80 said:
You can root your phone also without installing the twrp (if you are not intended to deep mod your phone). I'd suggest anyway to install the twrp.
Yes, magisk is needed it can be compared as the supersu but with extended feautures.
If I don't mistake (I did unlock my bootloader on my 1st day I owned the oneplus) all data will be wiped and yes... You might loose your data.
If you can make a backup of your photos, videos and any extra file on a PC and after the unlock and root procedure you can restore them.
All other app can just be downloaded again.... ???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am unable to flash twrp from adb,i ve unlocked the bootloader.any help?
nvrmndryo said:
I am unable to flash twrp from adb,i ve unlocked the bootloader.any help?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Follow this guide
h***s://www.xda-developers.com/how-to-install-twrp/
Double check all the adb instructions before confirming them and check that you have all the right files necessary for the operation. (start your pc terminal as administrator)
bebop80 said:
Follow this guide
h***s://www.xda-developers.com/how-to-install-twrp/
Double check all the adb instructions before confirming them and check that you have all the right files necessary for the operation. (start your pc terminal as administrator)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. successfully rooted my phone.

Question Cannot restore app data

Hi all,
I just got my Pixel 7 Pro few hours ago and I'm followed the instruction to copy my app and data from my Pixel 4. But it seems that some apps are not restored and some are restored but no data.
Is there anyone who can recommend a tool to backup data on my Pixel 4 and then restore them on Pixel 7 Pro (I would like to avoid to root it)? I should be able to find the APK to re-install some of the apps.
I tried Helium (Carbon) (I used it many years ago) but some apps cannot be backup (Helium says "not allowed").
Thanks a lot,
Axello
If the apps you are trying to restore are 32bit apps they will not restore, or work any longer.
jaseman said:
If the apps you are trying to restore are 32bit apps they will not restore, or work any longer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Jaseman.
Since I moved from my Pixel 4, I assumed my apps are not 32-bit.
I'm more interested to find a way to backup the data from my Pixel 4 to restore in my Pixel 7 Pro. Any idea?
axello said:
Thanks Jaseman.
Since I moved from my Pixel 4, I assumed my apps are not 32-bit.
I'm more interested to find a way to backup the data from my Pixel 4 to restore in my Pixel 7 Pro. Any idea?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
axello said:
...
Is there anyone who can recommend a tool to backup data on my Pixel 4 and then restore them on Pixel 7 Pro (I would like to avoid to root it)? I should be able to find the APK to re-install some of the apps.
...
Thanks a lot,
Axello
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Usually, as a rule of thumb, you need to be able to root both devices in order to transfer the data part of backups....
I could be wrong here; but isn't there ways to install apps through adb and/or backup and restore through adb? Maybe someone else out there can help....
You could always unlock bootloader, root, transfer apk's and data, then unroot and even re-lock bootloader (I do NOT recommend doing this last part as many people have bricked their device doing so unnecessarily...)...
If you do go that route, a lot of people are using Swift Backup with almost complete success and/or I saw a couple of people still using Migrate....
I personally haven't had issues with Swift, but I transferred most everything through the cord; but on the select times I used them for apps that didn't come from the Play Store, it worked perfectly...
simplepinoi177 said:
Usually, as a rule of thumb, you need to be able to root both devices in order to transfer the data part of backups....
I could be wrong here; but isn't there ways to install apps through adb and/or backup and restore through adb? Maybe someone else out there can help....
You could always unlock bootloader, root, transfer apk's and data, then unroot and even re-lock bootloader (I do NOT recommend doing this last part as many people have bricked their device doing so unnecessarily...)...
If you do go that route, a lot of people are using Swift Backup with almost complete success and/or I saw a couple of people still using Migrate....
I personally haven't had issues with Swift, but I transferred most everything through the cord; but on the select times I used them for apps that didn't come from the Play Store, it worked perfectly...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks Simplepinoi177,
I have never root my phones and I'm worried to do something wrong and break it.
I'll see if I need to setup these so one by one except if there is anyone else with another suggestion.
Axello
Is root easy/safe?
Would Google updates still be pushed on the phone without issue?
I think I saw some post about root, I'll go read them but I'm still concern I am not knowledgeable enough to do it...
axello said:
Is root easy/safe?
Would Google updates still be pushed on the phone without issue?
I think I saw some post about root, I'll go read them but I'm still concern I am not knowledgeable enough to do it...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would say that basic rooting is relatively safe; in most cases if all else fails, you can simply load up bootloader mode and flash the stock factory image to restore your phone. Unless you are installing custom ROMs, kernels, or modded Magisk or some modules, you should be safe as attempting to apply those things (instead of merely just having root access) is what has a higher risk of bricking/bootloops where you can't access recovery or bootloader mode.
But I just realized that you are attempting to transfer data from a Pixel 4. In order to root the Pixel 4 to get access to the app data, you would have to unlock the bootloader which factory resets the phone -- so the point is rendered moot and goes against the whole point.
So, I guess I don't have anything else to suggest as having root access seems to be the only real way of accessing and transferring/backing-up app data.
Again, you might ask someone more knowledgeable if it's possible to use the adb commands to backup and restore apps with their data....
simplepinoi177 said:
I would say that basic rooting is relatively safe; in most cases if all else fails, you can simply load up bootloader mode and flash the stock factory image to restore your phone. Unless you are installing custom ROMs, kernels, or modded Magisk or some modules, you should be safe as attempting to apply those things (instead of merely just having root access) is what has a higher risk of bricking/bootloops where you can't access recovery or bootloader mode.
But I just realized that you are attempting to transfer data from a Pixel 4. In order to root the Pixel 4 to get access to the app data, you would have to unlock the bootloader which factory resets the phone -- so the point is rendered moot and goes against the whole point.
So, I guess I don't have anything else to suggest as having root access seems to be the only real way of accessing and transferring/backing-up app data.
Again, you might ask someone more knowledgeable if it's possible to use the adb commands to backup and restore apps with their data....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for your help, greatly appreciated.
Yes, maybe there is not much choice then. One of the problem is an app that didn't get the data transferred and I cannot login anymore (company has bankrupted)

Categories

Resources