Database Info

Upgrading Magisk... Want to confirm how

I updated Magisk Manager to 5.5.5 and it is asking if I want to update Magisk from 15.2 to 15.3. If I want to, can I just patch the boot img that is on the phone (Pixel 2) from installing 15.2 on 8.1.0 January patch, then flash that? Do I need to download the boot img again? Do I have to (should I) remove the old patched boot img prior to doing so?
Do I have this somewhat straight, or am I going off the rails? I looked for specific "upgrading" info, but just keep seeing the installing for the first time info.
Thanks in advance!

amajamar said:
I updated Magisk Manager to 5.5.5 and it is asking if I want to update Magisk from 15.2 to 15.3. If I want to, can I just patch the boot img that is on the phone (Pixel 2) from installing 15.2 on 8.1.0 January patch, then flash that? Do I need to download the boot img again? Do I have to (should I) remove the old patched boot img prior to doing so?
Do I have this somewhat straight, or am I going off the rails? I looked for specific "upgrading" info, but just keep seeing the installing for the first time info.
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't remember the actual choices, since mine is already updated, but I do it straight from Magisk Manager app. I think I choose update then the direct install (recommended) option. I believe it then shows the log as it updates and once done gives option to reboot. Once it reboots, you should be on latest (15.3) version of Magisk, and you still have root and pass Safety checks. It has never caused any boot loops for me, just smooth and simple.
HTH!

amajamar said:
I updated Magisk Manager to 5.5.5 and it is asking if I want to update Magisk from 15.2 to 15.3. If I want to, can I just patch the boot img that is on the phone (Pixel 2) from installing 15.2 on 8.1.0 January patch, then flash that? Do I need to download the boot img again? Do I have to (should I) remove the old patched boot img prior to doing so?
Do I have this somewhat straight, or am I going off the rails? I looked for specific "upgrading" info, but just keep seeing the installing for the first time info.
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
like the other response, i am able to upgrade magisk directly from magisk manager (direct install method)
one caveat, i don't know if it's still true, i had an issue upgrading a month or two back and someone on here recommended i set my magisk to the "beta" channel (settings -> update channel). i suspect this is no longer needed, but i left it on the beta channel and have had no issues upgrading magisk every time it notifies me of a new update

Ok, so I can upgrade directly from the app. Great! I guess I was overthinking...
Thanks!

[GUIDE] How to root your Nokia 8, and keep the ability to do official OTA updates

So as the official bootloader unlock broadened the audience of this from tinkerers/developers to basically everyone I thought this guide might me helpful for some...
PREREQUISITES:
- Unlocked bootloader (official or unofficial)
- latest magisk manager installed on phone (https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/releases)
- latest fastboot and adb binaries from google(https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools)
- latest twrp.img to boot (NOT FLASH), zip not needed (https://eu.dl.twrp.me/NB1/)
- Fully stock partitions (if you do not have this reflash latest stock via ostla), as OTA updates will do a integrity check.
- PC with WIN/OSX/LINUX with USB port^^ (on windows you might have to add .exe to the commands)
- disable automatic system updates in developer options, as you will still have to manually root the updated partition, so this makes sure you don't miss it. You still get notifications on available updates and can apply them easily(as you will see)
SETUP_STEPS:
1. Go into Magisk manager and "just download" the latest zip
2.1 Run
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
or reboot into download/fastboot mode via other means
2.2 Run
Code:
fastboot boot twrp-3.2.3-1-NB1.img
(change this when your version of twrp differs)
2.3 Flash the .zip magisk downloaded in 1.)
2.4 Reboot.
Congratulations you now have root!
STEPS_TO_UPDATE:
1. Go into Magisk Manager -> Uninstall -> Restore Images
2. Apply Update, DO NOT REBOOT YET
3. When step to finished and it promts you to reboot go into Magisk Manager -> Install -> Install to inactive Slot
Congratulations you can now reboot and will have an updated Android while keeping full root.

ALTERNATIVE GUIDE (without twrp, using prerooted boot.img)
(works for newest patch level, where twrp isn't working yet)
this guide works on newest patches as long as someone provides a prerooted boot.img.
So basically you either need a boot.img available or twrp...
Hopefully this helps until TWRP is compatible with September Security Patch
LINKS:
stock boot.img: (may to october patches)
https://cloud.vault81.de/s/fnoizKwi8kNF3Rg
prerooted boot.img: (may to october patches)
https://cloud.vault81.de/s/AeHiE5HR2qonb3N
PREREQUISITES:
- same as above minus twrp
- patched/prerooted boot image (either create it yourself or use link provided here)
STEPS_TO_ROOT:
0.
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
or get into download mode otherwise
1.
Code:
fastboot boot NB1_prerooted_boot.img
1.1. The phone will boot into an temporarily rooted state,
2. Use magisk manager-> Install -> "Direct Install" to persist the root.
3. Reboot
Congrats you now have root even on versions where twrp isn't working yet....
Edit1:
Added link to all stock boot images from may to october security
Edit2:
Did the same for magisk prerooted
Edit3:
Added November images thanks to @czupyt

TWRP isnt working right now so whoever updated to September patch cant do anything except unlock bootloader. Unless someone can pull a boot.img from the newest patch so we can all patch it through Magisk and get root.

ironman38102 said:
TWRP isnt working right now so whoever updated to September patch cant do anything except unlock bootloader. Unless someone can pull a boot.img from the newest patch so we can all patch it through Magisk and get root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can try to do that once I get back home tomorrow...
I have working magisk on september patch so I should have both prerooted and Stock (cause Magisk backups those)

Trissi said:
I can try to do that once I get back home tomorrow...
I have working magisk on september patch so I should have both prerooted and Stock (cause Magisk backups those)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That would be much appreciated. Alot of people who just unlocked bootloader cant root and the maintainer of our TWRP will take a couple of days

indeed

ironman38102 said:
TWRP isnt working right now so whoever updated to September patch cant do anything except unlock bootloader. Unless someone can pull a boot.img from the newest patch so we can all patch it through Magisk and get root.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Simple Solution: A/B Partition System.
One Slot is the September Update, the other is August Update.
Update to September, Unlock, witch to other Slot with August Update, Boot Offical TWRP 3.2.3-0 (-1 not booting tho).
Now you can Install the Install Zip for the August BL and Magisk.
Bootup and use Magisk for Inactive Slot.
So did I, but I'm still on August Slot, I'll try to root the September Boot Partiton, and Install TWRP later when Fix arrived.
But rooted September doens't seem very... Stable

LoaderFabi said:
Simple Solution: A/B Partition System.
One Slot is the September Update, the other is August Update.
Update to September, Unlock, witch to other Slot with August Update, Boot Offical TWRP 3.2.3-0 (-1 not booting tho).
Now you can Install the Install Zip for the August BL and Magisk.
Bootup and use Magisk for Inactive Slot.
So did I, but I'm still on August Slot, I'll try to root the September Boot Partiton, and Install TWRP later when Fix arrived.
But rooted September doens't seem very... Stable
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm already about to install the September patch again. I downgraded to May so I could root my phone and provide the clean boot.img from the stock September so people can root without twrp. And honestly A/B partition is still new to me that I still don't understand it

ironman38102 said:
I'm already about to install the September patch again. I downgraded to May so I could root my phone and provide the clean boot.img from the stock September so people can root without twrp. And honestly A/B partition is still new to me that I still don't understand it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A/B system is not Complex at all. It's just having 2x a Partiton Group (Boot, System, OEM and Recovery I think) and having the ability with Fatboot to simply switch between group A and group B.
You Inital Set up Partiton A (Nokia did for us with Nougat 7.1.1). If you Update, the Update will be extracted to Partition B, aftzer finishing you reboot to Partiton Group B, leaving group A untouched in Case of Error on Partition B.
That's it pretty much.

LoaderFabi said:
A/B system is not Complex at all. It's just having 2x a Partiton Group (Boot, System, OEM and Recovery I think) and having the ability with Fatboot to simply switch between group A and group B.
You Inital Set up Partiton A (Nokia did for us with Nougat 7.1.1). If you Update, the Update will be extracted to Partition B, aftzer finishing you reboot to Partiton Group B, leaving group A untouched in Case of Error on Partition B.
That's it pretty much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I get that but its just that I forget cuz this is my first phone with a/b partition. Anyway I got the phone to latest patch rooted so I'll see if I can get the untouched img

i'm on september security update and followed the seconde guide, but still show the android logo not booting the phone

eric194 said:
i'm on september security update and followed the seconde guide, but still show the android logo not booting the phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On what step? Was it after you completed the guide? Or did the patched image not boot already?
If the patched image worked but it din't afterwards, you should reflash the stock_boot.img and redo the guide again because you probably flashed twrp and broke your bootloader...
As you can see in the prerequisites this guide requires a stock bootloader to start.

Trissi said:
On what step? Was it after you completed the guide? Or did the patched image not boot already?
If the patched image worked but it din't afterwards, you should reflash the stock_boot.img and redo the guide again because you probably flashed twrp and broke your bootloader...
As you can see in the prerequisites this guide requires a stock bootloader to start.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nop I didn't flash twrp & Im on stock bootloader fresh september no modifications

eric194 said:
Nop I didn't flash twrp & Im on stock bootloader fresh september no modifications
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So did the prerooted Image Boot?
If so it basically has to be your boot/system partition(I had mine compromised too and couldn't fix it with just flashing boot.img had to reflash everything via ostla)
If even the prerooted Image didnt boot im sorry i don't really know how to help, as I have working root with Magisk on September patch and the Image boots just fine for me....

eric194 said:
Nop I didn't flash twrp & Im on stock bootloader fresh september no modifications
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also you could Switch slots to revert back to august Patch and use the normal twrp guide then... And run the September Update via the magisk method

Trissi said:
Also you could Switch slots to revert back to august Patch and use the normal twrp guide then... And run the September Update via the magisk method
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok I will try that hope it'll work
Edit : thanks dude it worked

Hey everyone;
My Nokia TA-1004 is on the July SP (4.88B_SP02) with unlocked bootloader (unofficial method), TWRP and Magisk installed.
Where can I find a stock boot.img to flash? I tried flashing the boot.img on this thread and although I can boot fine my wifi will be broken (I tried and had to restore nandroid backup). I also tried following the guide here but my OSTLA won't get past "Flashing Service Bootloader".
Any help?

Xayar said:
Hey everyone;
My Nokia TA-1004 is on the July SP (4.88B_SP02) with unlocked bootloader (unofficial method), TWRP and Magisk installed.
Where can I find a stock boot.img to flash? I tried flashing the boot.img on this thread and although I can boot fine my wifi will be broken (I tried and had to restore nandroid backup). I also tried following the guide here but my OSTLA won't get past "Flashing Service Bootloader".
Any help?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flash the full Stock build (i think its even may patch), via ostla (https://forum.xda-developers.com/no...ia-8-official-firmware-links-updated-t3678487), then follow this guide then reapply all updates by following the update steps...

So which file do I have to download from https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t64iHuQQjmMnzcujZtjYplh6ipbiF6Cw ? I tried with the 488B one and got stuck on "flashing service bootloader"...

Xayar said:
So which file do I have to download from https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1t64iHuQQjmMnzcujZtjYplh6ipbiF6Cw ? I tried with the 488B one and got stuck on "flashing service bootloader"...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you trying to use OST LA 6.1.2? Cuz that doesnt work

[Q]How to change root from phh.superuser to Magisk and upgrade firmware?

Hi Guys, I've been an active user of XDA in the past but didn't have time to follow in the last couple of years so my memory about flashing and tinkering is quite blank.
Here is my situation:
Mate 9 MHA-L29C636B158 (very old ROM)
Bootloader unlocked with paid code from dc-unlocker
Rooted with PHH's Superuser (the only root that was available for our device back in March 2017)
EMUI 5.0 and Android 7.0 (that was obvious from my Build number but I just wanted to state it again)
TWRP 3.0.2-2 is installed with system kept read-only. Internal SD seems to be encrypted
I never took any OTAs as I was afraid that they would break something
In the last month's many of my banking or financial apps have stopped working because I'm rooted so I read that Magisk would be able to circumvent this safetynet thing and would allow me to continue using these apps. Google Pay would be a nice addition also.
At this point I would like to upgrade my firmware and get rid of PHH's Superuser switching to Magisk instead
Could someone please write a detailed guide how to do that? It might be interesting for other users also that are in my same situation. I'm willing to donate a few bucks for a complete and foolproof guide.
Thanks a lot

itenos said:
Hi Guys, I've been an active user of XDA in the past but didn't have time to follow in the last couple of years so my memory about flashing and tinkering is quite blank.
Here is my situation:
Mate 9 MHA-L29C636B158 (very old ROM)
Bootloader unlocked with paid code from dc-unlocker
Rooted with PHH's Superuser (the only root that was available for our device back in March 2017)
EMUI 5.0 and Android 7.0 (that was obvious from my Build number but I just wanted to state it again)
TWRP 3.0.2-2 is installed with system kept read-only. Internal SD seems to be encrypted
I never took any OTAs as I was afraid that they would break something
In the last month's many of my banking or financial apps have stopped working because I'm rooted so I read that Magisk would be able to circumvent this safetynet thing and would allow me to continue using these apps. Google Pay would be a nice addition also.
At this point I would like to upgrade my firmware and get rid of PHH's Superuser switching to Magisk instead
Could someone please write a detailed guide how to do that? It might be interesting for other users also that are in my same situation. I'm willing to donate a few bucks for a complete and foolproof guide.
Thanks a lot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you still have the unlock code? You'll want it, as the update from EMUI 5 to EMUI 8, on every device I've got, has relocked the bootloader.
With that said:
If you want to keep your data, make a backup using Hisuite.
Download the FullOTA firmware for your current version. Extract system, boot, recovery, recovery2 (as you're on EMUI 5) and flash them either in TWRP or fastboot; that should eliminate PHH SU and TWRP, and ultimately leave the system in a clean state.
If you modified other partitions on the device using TWRP or su in general, it wouldn't be a bad idea to use a nocheck recovery or HuRupdater to flash the entire system, to leave everything in a pristine state, since there are partitions you can't flash with fastboot, even with an unlocked bootloader. The instructions for HuR can be found elsewhere on XDA, as can details about nocheck recoveries, though the latter I'd be careful with - using HWOTA7 on Oreo, for example, WILL cause a brick. You've been warned.
Start the update process - you've already been approved for OTAs and they've been offered, so they should happen automatically. When Oreo is installed, it'll automatically relock your bootloader; you can continue updating here, though if you've got a particular target you want to go to, you might want to unlock and use HuR again to flash that specific one now that you're on Oreo. (The latest firmwares can't be rolled back to Nougat.) If you have no intention of going back to Nougat, you have your unlock code, and you aren't planning to do any other modifications like rebranding, then update away, though you may want to hold off of the Pie update if offered. (Shouldn't be, yet, but it could have been approved for your device already; it changes the boot partitions yet again.)
Now that you're on Oreo and presumably unlocked again, make sure you've got the FullOTA image downloaded for that firmware to your PC. (Always a good idea, anyway.)
Magisk can be installed by:
1) Flashing TWRP with fastboot, then flashing a suitable Magisk zip
2) Using Magisk Manager to patch a boot image and flashing that.
For TWRP:
Get a copy of TWRP from the forum here. When I use one, it's the 3.2.1-0 from @Pretoriano80, you'll find it in the development section. Any 3.2.x for Oreo should work though - a Nougat TWRP will not work.
Flash TWRP to recovery_ramdisk in fastboot. Boot to TWRP, flash Magisk.
For Magisk Manager:
Extract "ramdisk" from your FullOTA firmware. Place it in internal storage on your device. Use Magisk Manager to patch the image (install / patch boot image). Transfer the patched_boot.img created by Magisk back to your PC and flash that to the "ramdisk" partition in fastboot.

Just stumbled over your reply, didn't get an email notification from XDA. Thank you so much. Let's see if I can follow your instructions.
irony_delerium said:
Do you still have the unlock code? You'll want it, as the update from EMUI 5 to EMUI 8, on every device I've got, has relocked the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I still have the code
irony_delerium said:
With that said:
If you want to keep your data, make a backup using Hisuite.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Done
irony_delerium said:
Download the FullOTA firmware for your current version. Extract system, boot, recovery, recovery2 (as you're on EMUI 5) and flash them either in TWRP or fastboot; that should eliminate PHH SU and TWRP, and ultimately leave the system in a clean state.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I downloaded the FullOTA with the FirmwareFinder app on my phone and transferred it to my laptop. Extracted the update.app with WinRAR and extracted system, boot, recovery and recovery2 using the Huawei Update Extractor 0.9.9.3.
Just to make no mistake, could you please confirm the order of flashing these 4 files? And maybe the correct command to use in fastboot?
irony_delerium said:
If you modified other partitions on the device using TWRP or su in general, it wouldn't be a bad idea to use a nocheck recovery or HuRupdater to flash the entire system, to leave everything in a pristine state, since there are partitions you can't flash with fastboot, even with an unlocked bootloader. The instructions for HuR can be found elsewhere on XDA, as can details about nocheck recoveries, though the latter I'd be careful with - using HWOTA7 on Oreo, for example, WILL cause a brick. You've been warned.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think that I modified any other partitions, at least not willingly. I even left the system in read-only state. Don't know if phh.su did something by itself?
irony_delerium said:
Start the update process - you've already been approved for OTAs and they've been offered, so they should happen automatically. When Oreo is installed, it'll automatically relock your bootloader; you can continue updating here, though if you've got a particular target you want to go to, you might want to unlock and use HuR again to flash that specific one now that you're on Oreo. (The latest firmwares can't be rolled back to Nougat.) If you have no intention of going back to Nougat, you have your unlock code, and you aren't planning to do any other modifications like rebranding, then update away, though you may want to hold off of the Pie update if offered. (Shouldn't be, yet, but it could have been approved for your device already; it changes the boot partitions yet again.)
Now that you're on Oreo and presumably unlocked again, make sure you've got the FullOTA image downloaded for that firmware to your PC. (Always a good idea, anyway.)
Magisk can be installed by:
1) Flashing TWRP with fastboot, then flashing a suitable Magisk zip
2) Using Magisk Manager to patch a boot image and flashing that.
For TWRP:
Get a copy of TWRP from the forum here. When I use one, it's the 3.2.1-0 from @Pretoriano80, you'll find it in the development section. Any 3.2.x for Oreo should work though - a Nougat TWRP will not work.
Flash TWRP to recovery_ramdisk in fastboot. Boot to TWRP, flash Magisk.
For Magisk Manager:
Extract "ramdisk" from your FullOTA firmware. Place it in internal storage on your device. Use Magisk Manager to patch the image (install / patch boot image). Transfer the patched_boot.img created by Magisk back to your PC and flash that to the "ramdisk" partition in fastboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Will continue to do the above after your kind confirmation of my last questions. Thanks again

itenos said:
I downloaded the FullOTA with the FirmwareFinder app on my phone and transferred it to my laptop. Extracted the update.app with WinRAR and extracted system, boot, recovery and recovery2 using the Huawei Update Extractor 0.9.9.3.
Just to make no mistake, could you please confirm the order of flashing these 4 files? And maybe the correct command to use in fastboot?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The order shouldn't be particularly relevant, just that it's safest to reflash all of them:
- boot because phhsu may have modified the boot image to add su to it
- recovery and recovery2 because you loaded TWRP. recovery2 is specified because it's used to be recommended to flash to erecovery as well as normal recovery.
- system because I'm pretty sure that's the biggest thing modified Hy phhsu, and any other system changes you may have made.
Theoretically, other modified partitions won't matter since the upgrade to 8.0 replaces most (all, I think) of them anyway, but if you have to go through update steps through EMUI 5 first before it'll give you 8, then it's safest that they aren't modified. I mentioned other partitions because, with root & TWRP, you technically could have modified any and all of them.

irony_delerium said:
Download the FullOTA firmware for your current version. Extract system, boot, recovery, recovery2 (as you're on EMUI 5) and flash them either in TWRP or fastboot; that should eliminate PHH SU and TWRP, and ultimately leave the system in a clean state.
Start the update process - you've already been approved for OTAs and they've been offered, so they should happen automatically.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Flashing of 158 (original ROM version) went fine. Phone rebooted and titanium reported no root access, so it looks good.
After that I started the OTA update to 172 that waited already long time in my settings and it downloaded it. After downloading it gave me an error during the validation process of the file and asked to download it again.
Unfortunately now both the phone updater and the HiSuite app on my laptop say that 158 is the latest available firmware and no update is available.
I guess that I can download directly the newer firmware but I'm not exactly sure how to flash the whole package and what I should do with the other 2 files that come with it besides the update.zip

itenos said:
Flashing of 158 (original ROM version) went fine. Phone rebooted and titanium reported no root access, so it looks good.
After that I started the OTA update to 172 that waited already long time in my settings and it downloaded it. After downloading it gave me an error during the validation process of the file and asked to download it again.
Unfortunately now both the phone updater and the HiSuite app on my laptop say that 158 is the latest available firmware and no update is available.
I guess that I can download directly the newer firmware but I'm not exactly sure how to flash the whole package and what I should do with the other 2 files that come with it besides the update.zip
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It might be tweaking out about the fact that you'd previously modified system.
I'd grab the last Nougat release (looks like 191; there are 2 of them, be sure it's not the rollback one you grab) and use hurupdater in TWRP to install it, then let the system try running OTA again.

irony_delerium said:
It might be tweaking out about the fact that you'd previously modified system.
I'd grab the last Nougat release (looks like 191; there are 2 of them, be sure it's not the rollback one you grab) and use hurupdater in TWRP to install it, then let the system try running OTA again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I had to insert the SIM card of the country I bought my phone in to get the OTAs coming. Luckily I still had it with a few $ credit on it. It used just a few cents in data roaming for finding the new firmware, then I downloaded through wifi.
After 4 updates now I'm on 378 and no sign of Pie yet so this afternoon if I find some time I'll continue with rooting.

itenos said:
I had to insert the SIM card of the country I bought my phone in to get the OTAs coming. Luckily I still had it with a few $ credit on it. It used just a few cents in data roaming for finding the new firmware, then I downloaded through wifi.
After 4 updates now I'm on 378 and no sign of Pie yet so this afternoon if I find some time I'll continue with rooting.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Easy way:
Unlock phone, if you haven't yet again.
Download and flash TWRP from here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/mate-9/development/recovery-twrp-3-2-1-0-t3783353 (has decryption support) (flash to recovery_ramdisk as Huawei decided to split recovery partition into different parts)
Boot to TWRP, input pin (if you set a pin, else it will decrypt automatically)
Download Magisk: https://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/magisk/official-magisk-v7-universal-systemless-t3473445
Transfer Magisk to phone.
Flash Magisk zip in TWRP.
Reboot and you're done.
You might have to tinker around with Magisk Hide and hide apps if your banking apps still detect root.

As the Huawei Backup took over 4 hours to finish and i can't use Titanium, which is much faster, because I'm not rooted at the moment, I thought it's a good idea to first upgrade to Pie before unlocking my bootloader and losing all data. If I need to stay a few days without root it's ok.
Is there any way to get to Pie without being rooted? I tried the erecovery method on firmware finder. It says that my IMEI is now registered to download the update but when I enter erecovery it starts downloading the 378 oreo package.
I would like to avoid backing up and restoring twice this lengthy process, probably 16 hours all in all

itenos said:
As the Huawei Backup took over 4 hours to finish and i can't use Titanium, which is much faster, because I'm not rooted at the moment, I thought it's a good idea to first upgrade to Pie before unlocking my bootloader and losing all data. If I need to stay a few days without root it's ok.
Is there any way to get to Pie without being rooted? I tried the erecovery method on firmware finder. It says that my IMEI is now registered to download the update but when I enter erecovery it starts downloading the 378 oreo package.
I would like to avoid backing up and restoring twice this lengthy process, probably 16 hours all in all
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The erecovery method won't work unless you can change the DNS settings on the network being used - it hijacks some of the requests to Huawei's servers to force the update. (And even then it's a bit finicky; I have yet to successfully use it, all things considered.)

Yesterday I finally received 9.0.1.159 with EMUI 9.0.1 by OTA. It installed fine and it's amazing how fast my phone became and how much screen on time I have now with my 2 year old device (8 full hours!). Good job Google and Huawei.
Being on Pie now I suppose that the instructions to root from you and ante0 are not valid anymore as they were meant for Oreo.
Could you please modify the instructions for Pie? And further, as I see that since yesterday in FirmwareFinder a new Pie update 9.0.1.178 popped up, could you please also add instructions how to take this OTA being rooted with Magisk once it arrives?
I've read a bit in the Magisk thread but I did not really understand the part of having to boot to recovery everytime I switch on the phone. Further they are talking there about EMUI 9 but I have already 9.0.1, is there maybe a difference I have to take care about?
Last but not least, I didn't forget my initial promise to donate a few bucks for the detailed instructions so please drop me your email in PM and I'll sent you a few through PayPal or in alternative, if you have some paid apps on the Playstore I could buy them so they might get more visibility.

itenos said:
Yesterday I finally received 9.0.1.159 with EMUI 9.0.1 by OTA. It installed fine and it's amazing how fast my phone became and how much screen on time I have now with my 2 year old device (8 full hours!). Good job Google and Huawei.
Being on Pie now I suppose that the instructions to root from you and ante0 are not valid anymore as they were meant for Oreo.
Could you please modify the instructions for Pie? And further, as I see that since yesterday in FirmwareFinder a new Pie update 9.0.1.178 popped up, could you please also add instructions how to take this OTA being rooted with Magisk once it arrives?
I've read a bit in the Magisk thread but I did not really understand the part of having to boot to recovery everytime I switch on the phone. Further they are talking there about EMUI 9 but I have already 9.0.1, is there maybe a difference I have to take care about?
Last but not least, I didn't forget my initial promise to donate a few bucks for the detailed instructions so please drop me your email in PM and I'll sent you a few through PayPal or in alternative, if you have some paid apps on the Playstore I could buy them so they might get more visibility.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The reason recovery boot is needed for Pie is because Huawei removed the ramdisk - in Pie, it's system as root with no way of forcing a ramdisk except by a recovery boot. So as a workaround, Magisk takes over recovery.
The installation instructions for it on Pie are pretty much the same as Oreo, except:
* Patch recovery_ramdisk, not ramdisk. Latest stable Magisk should work (18.1, iirc, has the patches to support recovery boot.)
* When booting, go to recovery. Magisk will start from there and take over the startup process.

irony_delerium said:
The installation instructions for it on Pie are pretty much the same as Oreo, except:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm, where do I find the TWRP for Pie in order to flash?
And most importantly how do I have to behave in case of new OTAs coming?

itenos said:
Hmm, where do I find the TWRP for Pie in order to flash?
And most importantly how do I have to behave in case of new OTAs coming?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TWRP on this case, don't bother.
Extract your stock recovery from your firmware's update.app file, patch with Magisk Manager, and flash the patched image. When you want to flash an ota, put the stock recovery back.

[UPDATE/KEEP ROOT GUIDE] JAN 2021 (RQ1A.210105.003) "CORAL" Magisk/Stock Boot Images

GravityBox [R] was pre-released today! Thus, I was able to update, using this very method, all the way from August 2020 thru January 2021. Entire process took only about an hour, with no hiccups. =) =) =)
But luckily, that also means I can actually start confirming again, personally, that everything is working fine. I can happily report everything is working great after this update. SafetyNet is passing with the correct configurations, and January 2021 build is working perfectly so far with Kirisakura 6.6.6 (why @Freak07, why did you have to release as this particular version number?? lol).
IMPORTANT!! THESE FILES / THIS THREAD IS FOR PIXEL 4 XL "CORAL" ONLY, NOT PIXEL 4 "FLAME"!!
**IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO PATCH THE STOCK BOOT IMAGE YOURSELF, FROM YOUR OWN DEVICE, USING MAGISK MANAGER. WHILE THERE'S A GOOD CHANCE THE FILE I PROVIDED BELOW WILL BE IDENTICAL (USE A FILE HASH CHECKSUM TOOL IF YOU'RE CURIOUS), THERE IS ALSO A CHANCE THEY MAY HAVE SMALL, BUT SIGNIFICANT, VARIANCES**
Thanks for the info and link, @wrongway213
Link to @topjohnwu's post: twitter dot com /topjohnwu/status/1272136975022084097?s=19 (until I figure out how to stop new XDA from forcing the URL to embed a giant twitter posting in the middle of the post...)
ALL FILES BELOW ARE FOR "RQ1A.210105.003, Jan 2021"!
Magisk v21.2 Patched Boot Image: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=17248734326145709333
Factory Untouched Boot Image: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=17248734326145709334
Factory Untouched DTBO Image: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=17248734326145709335
----------------------------------------------
-------------UPDATE PROCESS BELOW-------------
----------------------------------------------​
EASY UPDATE / SEAMLESS KEEP-ROOT UPDATE PROCESS (using a PC - a very intuitive, effective, and relatively safe method).
** You can only follow this guide verbatim if coming EXACTLY from build "11.0.0 (RQ1A.201205.008, Dec 2020)". But the general idea is the same for other builds, you just need the correct files for your device.
coral-rq1a.201205.008-factory-dtbo.img: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=10763459528675600188
coral-rq1a.201205.008-factory-boot.img: https://www.androidfilehost.com/?fid=10763459528675600190
January 2021 sideload OTA zip: https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/coral-ota-rq1a.210105.003-ad8d5ecc.zip
DO NOT BOOT BACK INTO O/S UNTIL ALL STEPS ARE COMPLETED - THIS ENSURES EVERYTHING BOOTS BACK UP WITH MAGISK / EDXPOSED ALL RUNNING PROPERLY RIGHT AWAY
1. boot into bootloader
----------------
** I was on custom kernel, so I needed to flash BOTH the stock boot and dtbo images
2. fastboot flash boot coral-rq1a.201205.008-factory-boot.img
3. fastboot flash dtbo coral-rq1a.201205.008-factory-dtbo.img
......* these steps to restore stock recovery; dtbo.img also necessary for some kernel installations.
......* won't hurt to flash both anyway, so if you're unsure, go ahead and do both.
-----------------
4. use volume keys to change selection to boot to Recovery Mode
......- when you reach the android symbol with No Command, hold power button, tap volume up, in case you've forgotten
5. choose option "Apply update from ADB"
6. adb sideload coral-ota-rq1a.210105.003-ad8d5ecc.zip
7. Once the OTA sideload is done, Reboot to bootloader (you'll also notice it's now on the other slot after OTA flashed)
8. fastboot flash boot coral-rq1a.210105.003-magisk_patched-21.2.img
9. done, start the phone
(Optional - Flash custom kernel. If you had a custom kernel, you need to re-flash it)
This is a 100% seamless update that requires no additional / re-setup of any of my Magisk or EdXposed setups. All of the factory files can be found here https://developers.google.com/android/images. boot.img and dtbo.img are in their corresponding full Factory Image zips, and the ota zip is under Full OTA Images.
-------------------------------------------------
-------------------TROUBLESHOOTING-------------------
-------------------------------------------------​
Issues after updating?
If you end up unable to boot or bootlooping afterwards, you most likely have an old Magisk module that isn't playing nice with the new build. There are 2 main things you can do:
1. Flash the new factory untouched boot image. You will of course lose root, and all modules will be disabled. However, it should at least get you able to boot back up quickly and have a working phone if you're in a bind.
2. I would recommend checking Tulsadiver's thread: https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-4-xl/how-to/magisk-modules-disabler-booting-magisk-t3990557
Instead of reverting to stock boot image, fastboot boot (NOT FLASH) Tulsadiver's boot image. This will boot your phone in Magisk Core-Only Mode, with all modules disabled but root retained. From here you can open Magisk Manager and disable suspect modules. Before rebooting, go to Magisk Manager's settings and disable Magisk Core-Only Mode. Once you disable the incompatible module, the phone should boot back up.
- See this post (or thread) for more tips / context / an example: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=82509691&postcount=16

[EDIT 01-13-2021] YET ANOTHER NEW SAFETYNET WORKAROUND (AS OF AROUND JANUARY 12 / 13):
Please see this post: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/guide-edxposed-gpay-discussion.3992607/post-84285539

Thank you for the update guides as always.

Just wanted to say a quick thanks. Worked like a charm!

Worked like a charm

I'd like to ask someone for help! If you haven't updated yet (i.e. you're still on 2020-12 patch level [non-AT&T]), and NOT using Edge Sense Plus (Active Edge Mod in Magisk Manager and/or EdXposed Manager) NOR any of Tulsadiver's theming mods (3minit / clock / 9tiles / etc), could you please send me your stock SystemUIGoogle.apk file? You can find it, using a root capable file explorer app, under:
(root) /system_ext/priv-app/SystemUIGoogle/SystemUIGoogle.apk
It needs to be the stock, completely unmodified .apk, which is why I'm asking to make sure you're not using any of those mods I mentioned. Or, you could disable those mods temporarily (both Magisk and EdXposed), reboot, and pull the .apk file. Unfortunately whenever I pull it from Google's factory system image always seems to be corrupted. Would just be easier for me if I could get it from someone's up-and-running system...
Thanks!! I really hope someone can do me a solid...
Or, does anybody know if it's safe to "downgrade" to December 2020? Using the full factory image and removing -w flag (and replacing boot.img with magisk patched)? I would think it would work, but I've never tried, nor needed, to flash the previous month's firmware before.

i5lee8bit said:
I'd like to ask someone for help! If you haven't updated yet (i.e. you're still on 2020-12 patch level [non-AT&T]), and NOT using Edge Sense Plus (Active Edge Mod in Magisk Manager and/or EdXposed Manager) NOR any of Tulsadiver's theming mods (3minit / clock / 9tiles / etc), could you please send me your stock SystemUIGoogle.apk file? You can find it, using a root capable file explorer app, under:
(root) /system_ext/priv-app/SystemUIGoogle/SystemUIGoogle.apk
It needs to be the stock, completely unmodified .apk, which is why I'm asking to make sure you're not using any of those mods I mentioned. Or, you could disable those mods temporarily (both Magisk and EdXposed), reboot, and pull the .apk file. Unfortunately whenever I pull it from Google's factory system image always seems to be corrupted. Would just be easier for me if I could get it from someone's up-and-running system...
Thanks!! I really hope someone can do me a solid...
Or, does anybody know if it's safe to "downgrade" to December 2020? Using the full factory image and removing -w flag (and replacing boot.img with magisk patched)? I would think it would work, but I've never tried, nor needed, to flash the previous month's firmware before.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I have a pixel 4 xl and I've rolled back to android 10 back in October, due to 11's bugs. So in my experience it is safe to roll back to previous updates. Being that I flashed

Suavie103 said:
Well I have a pixel 4 xl and I've rolled back to android 10 back in October, due to 11's bugs.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would you mind sharing what kind of bugs you are facing on 11 please? I was going to update from 10 soon.

Ghisy said:
Would you mind sharing what kind of bugs you are facing on 11 please? I was going to update from 10 soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No those bugs were when 11 was first released. The January 11 update is perfectly fine imo. You should update

Thanks as always. Works like a charm

I just got the OTA update this week (1-14-2021) and was just wondering if the 1st post is still valid? Right now I am on Android 11 (RP1A.200720.009). Which files do I need to download from Google to go from RP1A.200720.009 to the latest OTA? Thanks in advance!

I am confused on number 8 ( 8. fastboot flash boot coral-rq1a.210105.003-magisk_patched-21.2.img ) where do I get that patched img file from? I am already rooted with Magisk vf5593e05 (4835)

One more small question.... what does DTBO stand for? I have never heard of that?

OMG!!!! I did it!!! Woo Hoo!!! Took me about 30 minutes! I did not flash the " coral-rq1a.201205.008-factory-dtbo.img " because I am not using a custom kernel just straight stock!
It scared me at first because it was taking so long for my Pixel 4 Xl to boot back up but it finally came back on.
I also had to update Magisk to f5593e05 (21401).
I have now went from Android 11 (RP1A.200720.009) to Android 11 (RQ1A.210105.003) and I still have ROOT!!!
Thank you @i5lee8bit for this easy to use guide! I am still a noob using ADB but I am learning more and more!
Oh yea... you said "GravityBox [R] was pre-released today!" where can I get that from? Does it work good?
Is anyone monitoring this thread? I feel all alone!

Perfect write-up. Followed it as instructed, had my phone rebooted with the new update in less than 10 minutes. Even had to double-check that it actually updated since it rebooted so fast!
Thanks!

The February update is out. Anyone got the magisk patched file?

For some reason I'm getting installation error when trying to patch boot image. Tried canary & stable magisk APK. Can someone confirm this?

I got the same, on canary

No issues here. Everything worked first try. Updating phone now, guide will be up soon (assuming no other errors otherwise).
Edit: It's up: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...5-004-coral-magisk-stock-boot-images.4227845/
Will also be editing the Active Edge Mod for Edge Sense Plus module really soon, and will be indicated on that thread: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...or-patch-levels-2021-01-05-and-later.4226343/

i5lee8bit said:
No issues here. Everything worked first try. Updating phone now, guide will be up soon (assuming no other errors otherwise).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. Working fine with Beta 21.4 on February update.

[GUIDE] Pixel 3a XL "bonito": Unlock Bootloader, Update, Root, Pass SafetyNet

If you are looking for my guide on a different Pixel, find it here:
Pixel 3
Pixel 3XL
Pixel 3a
Pixel 4
Pixel 4XL
Pixel 4a
Pixel 4a (5G)
Pixel 5
Pixel 5a
Pixel 6
Pixel 6 Pro
For best results, use the latest stable Magisk release.
Discussion thread for migration to 24.0+.
Note: Magisk prior to Canary 23016 does not incorporate the necessary fixes for Android 12+.
WARNING: YOU AND YOU ALONE ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANYTHING THAT HAPPENS TO YOUR DEVICE. THIS GUIDE IS WRITTEN WITH THE EXPRESS ASSUMPTION THAT YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH ADB, MAGISK, ANDROID, AND ROOT. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING.
Prerequisites:
Latest SDK Platform Tools - if Platform Tools is out of date, you WILL run into problems!
USB Debugging enabled
Google USB Driver installed
I recommend using Command Prompt for these instructions; some users have difficulty with PowerShell.
Make sure the Command Prompt is running from your Platform Tools directory!
Android Source - Setting up a device for development
Spoiler: Downloads
Pixel OTA Images
Pixel Factory Images
Magisk Stable, Magisk Canary - Magisk GitHub
Spoiler: Unlock Bootloader
Follow these instructions to enable Developer Options and USB Debugging.
Enable OEM Unlocking. If this option is grayed out, unlocking the bootloader is not possible.
Connect your device to your PC, and open a command window in your Platform Tools folder.
Ensure ADB sees your device:
Code:
adb devices
If you don't see a device, make sure USB Debugging is enabled, reconnect the USB cable, or try a different USB cable.
If you see "unauthorized", you need to authorize the connection on your device.
If you see the device without "unauthorized", you're good to go.
Reboot to bootloader:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Unlock bootloader: THIS WILL WIPE YOUR DEVICE!
Code:
fastboot flashing unlock
Select Continue on the device screen.
Spoiler: Initial Root / Create Master Root Image
Install Magisk on your device.
Download the factory zip for your build.
Inside the factory zip is the update zip: "device-image-buildnumber.zip". Open this, and extract boot.img
Copy boot.img to your device.
Patch boot.img with Magisk: "Install" > "Select and Patch a File"
Copy the patched image back to your PC. It will be named "magisk_patched-23xxx_xxxxx.img". Rename this to "master root.img" and retain it for future updates.
Reboot your device to bootloader.
Flash the patched image:
Code:
fastboot flash boot <drag and drop master root.img here>
Reboot to Android. Open Magisk to confirm root - under Magisk at the top, you should see "Installed: <Magisk build number>
Spoiler: Update and Root Automatic OTA
Before you download the OTA, open Magisk, tap Uninstall, then Restore Images. If you have any Magisk modules that modify system, uninstall them now.
Take the OTA update when prompted. To check for updates manually, go to Settings > System > System Update > Check for Update
Allow the update to download and install. DO NOT REBOOT WHEN PROMPTED. Open Magisk, tap Install at the top, then Install to inactive slot. Magisk will then reboot your device.
You should now be updated with root.
Spoiler: Update and Root OTA Sideload
Download the OTA.
Reboot to recovery and sideload the OTA:
Code:
adb reboot sideload
Once in recovery:
Code:
adb sideload ota.zip
When the OTA completes, you will be in recovery mode. Select "Reboot to system now".
Allow system to boot and wait for the update to complete. You must let the system do this before proceeding.
Reboot to bootloader.
Boot the master root image (See note 1):
Code:
fastboot boot <drag and drop master root.img here>
Note: If you prefer, you can download the factory zip and manually patch the new boot image, then flash it after the update. Do not flash an older boot image after updating.
Your device should boot with root. Open Magisk, tap Install, and select Direct Install.
Reboot your device. You should now be updated with root.
Note: You can use Payload Dumper to extract the contents of the OTA if you want to manually patch the new boot image. However, I will not cover that in this guide.
Spoiler: Update and Root Factory Image
Please note that the factory update process expects an updated bootloader and radio. If these are not up to date, the update will fail.
Download the factory zip and extract the contents.
Reboot to bootloader.
Spoiler: Update bootloader if necessary
Compare bootloader versions between phone screen and bootloader.img build number
Code:
fastboot flash bootloader <drag and drop new bootloader.img here>
If bootloader is updated, reboot to bootloader.
Spoiler: Update radio if necessary
Compare baseband versions between phone screen and radio.img build number
Code:
fastboot flash radio <drag and drop radio.img here>
If radio is updated, reboot to bootloader.
Apply update:
Code:
fastboot update --skip-reboot image-codename-buildnumber.zip
When the update completes, the device will be in fastbootd. Reboot to bootloader.
Boot the master root image (See note 1):
Code:
fastboot boot <drag and drop master root.img here>
Note: If you prefer, you can manually patch the new boot image, then flash it after the update. Do not flash an older boot image after updating.
Your device should boot with root. Open Magisk, tap Install, and select Direct Install.
Reboot your device. You should now be updated with root.
Note: If you prefer, you can update using the flash-all script included in the factory zip. You will have to copy the script, bootloader image, radio image, and update zip into the Platform Tools folder; you will then have to edit the script to remove the -w option so it doesn't wipe your device.
The scripted commands should look like this:
Code:
fastboot flash bootloader <bootloader image name>
fastboot reboot bootloader
ping -n 5 127.0.0.1 > nul
fastboot flash radio <radio image name>
fastboot reboot bootloader
ping -n 5 127.0.0.1 > nul
fastboot update --skip-reboot <image-device-buildnumber.zip>
Once this completes, you can reboot to bootloader and either boot your master patched image, or if you patched the new image, flash it at this time.
Spoiler: Update and Root using PixelFlasher <<RECOMMENDED FOR NOVICES>>
PixelFlasher by @badabing2003 is an excellent tool that streamlines the update process - it even patches the boot image for you.
The application essentially automates the ADB interface to make updating and rooting much easier. However, it is STRONGLY recommended that you still learn the "basics" of using ADB.
For instructions, downloads, and support, please refer to the PixelFlasher thread.
Spoiler: Update and Root using the Android Flash Tool
Follow the instructions on the Android Flash Tool to update your device. Make sure Lock Bootloader and Wipe Device are UNCHECKED.
When the update completes, the device will be in fastbootd. Reboot to bootloader.
Boot the master root image (See note 1):
Code:
fastboot boot <drag and drop master root.img here>
Note: If you prefer, you can download the factory zip and manually patch the new boot image, then flash it after the update. Do not flash an older boot image after updating.
Your device should boot with root. Open Magisk, tap Install, and select Direct Install.
Reboot your device. You should now be updated with root.
Spoiler: Pass SafetyNet/Play Integrity
SafetyNet has been deprecated for the new Play Integrity API. More information here.
In a nutshell, Play Integrity uses the same mechanisms as SafetyNet for the BASIC and DEVICE verdicts, but uses the Trusted Execution Environment to validate those verdicts. TEE does not function on an unlocked bootloader, so legacy SafetyNet solutions will fail.
However, @Displax has modified the original Universal SafetyNet Fix by kdrag0n; his mod is able to force basic attestation instead of hardware, meaning that the device will pass BASIC and DEVICE integrity.
Mod available here. Do not use MagiskHide Props Config with this mod.
This is my configuration that is passing Safety Net. I will not provide instructions on how to accomplish this. Attempt at your own risk.
Zygisk + DenyList enabled
All subcomponents of these apps hidden under DenyList:
Google Play Store
GPay
Any banking/financial apps
Any DRM media apps
Modules:
Universal SafetyNet Fix 2.3.1 Mod - XDA post
To check SafetyNet status:
YASNAC - GitHub
To check Play Integrity status:
Play Integrity Checker - NOTE: MEETS_STRONG_INTEGRITY will ALWAYS fail on an unlocked bootloader.
I do not provide support for Magisk or modules. If you need help with Magisk, here is the Magisk General Support thread. For support specifically with Magisk v24+, see this thread.
Points of note:
The boot image is NOT the bootloader image. Do not confuse the two - YOU are expected to know the difference. Flashing the wrong image to bootloader could brick your device.
While the Magisk app is used for patching the boot image, the app and the patch are separate. This is what you should see in Magisk for functioning root:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
"Installed" shows the version of patch in the boot image. If this says N/A, you do not have root access - the boot image is not patched, or you have a problem with Magisk.
"App" simply shows the version of the app itself.
If you do not have a patched master boot image, you will need to download the factory zip if you haven't already, extract the system update inside it, then patch boot.img.
If you prefer updating with the factory image, you can also extract and manually patch the boot image if desired.
Some Magisk modules, especially those that modify read only partitions like /system, may cause a boot loop after updating. As a general rule, disable these modules before updating. You are responsible for knowing what you have installed, and what modules to disable.
Credits:
Thanks to @badabing2003 , @pndwal , @Displax , @Az Biker , @ipdev , @kdrag0n , @Didgeridoohan , and last but not least, @topjohnwu for all their hard work!

Hi, thank you for the guide. I am very new here and I have some questions that I hope you can answer before I proceed.
First of all, I assume I should back up my device on an external medium if I screw the pooch. With that in mind, do you have any suggestions/ links on guides that can help me with that? If not, I'm sure I can do some good digging to find something suitable.
Second, I'm not exactly sure what "Bonito" is and from what I have seen from googling, it seems to be connected to the LineageOS operating system. Is this different from the current, factory OS that my phone is running? Is there a way to root my device without changing the factory OS if that's the case? If not, that's okay, I don't mind switching to an open-source OS that seems to have a good reputation.
Third, is the guide supposed to be followed sequentially with the first step being, "Spoiler: Downloads" and the last step being, "Spoiler: Pass SafetyNet?" Or are the first 3 steps, "Spoiler: Downloads", "Spoiler: Unlock Bootloader" and, "Spoiler: Initial Root / Create Master Root Image" are essential steps and the subsequent steps afterwards are based on personal needs? Ideally, using Android Flash Tool seems painless and foolproof which is perfect for me. Afterwards, I will attempt to copy the Spoiler: Pass SafetyNet" step.
Fourth, what is your take on using Android Flash Tool vs TOOL ALL IN ONE for flashing? TOOL ALL IN ONE seems even more painless and fool-proof and apart from backing up, seems easier. But I would love your take on this?
Feel free to answer any or none of these questions. I know it's a lot but id rather ask questions to a staff member before proceeding?
Thanks again for the guide!

Cheetah_Bear said:
Hi, thank you for the guide. I am very new here and I have some questions that I hope you can answer before I proceed.
First of all, I assume I should back up my device on an external medium if I screw the pooch. With that in mind, do you have any suggestions/ links on guides that can help me with that? If not, I'm sure I can do some good digging to find something suitable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Without root, there is no way to do a full backup including app data. The best you can do is sync your Pixel with your Google account.
Cheetah_Bear said:
Second, I'm not exactly sure what "Bonito" is and from what I have seen from googling, it seems to be connected to the LineageOS operating system. Is this different from the current, factory OS that my phone is running? Is there a way to root my device without changing the factory OS if that's the case? If not, that's okay, I don't mind switching to an open-source OS that seems to have a good reputation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"Bonito" is Google's internal name for the device and has little to do with the software. The Pixel 5 is "redfin", the 5a is "bramble", the Pixel 2 was "walleye".
As far as rooting your device, yes - if you follow this guide, you will gain root on the stock OS. I am currently using my Pixel 5 with the OEM firmware, patched with Magisk.
Cheetah_Bear said:
Third, is the guide supposed to be followed sequentially with the first step being, "Spoiler: Downloads" and the last step being, "Spoiler: Pass SafetyNet?" Or are the first 3 steps, "Spoiler: Downloads", "Spoiler: Unlock Bootloader" and, "Spoiler: Initial Root / Create Master Root Image" are essential steps and the subsequent steps afterwards are based on personal needs? Ideally, using Android Flash Tool seems painless and foolproof which is perfect for me. Afterwards, I will attempt to copy the Spoiler: Pass SafetyNet" step.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This guide is not sequential; I provided different instructions for different scenarios. The downloads are simply the resources you will need. To attain root, simply follow the instructions under "Initial Root". When the June update is released, you can update using your method of choice, and follow the relevant instructions to regain root.
Cheetah_Bear said:
Fourth, what is your take on using Android Flash Tool vs TOOL ALL IN ONE for flashing? TOOL ALL IN ONE seems even more painless and fool-proof and apart from backing up, seems easier. But I would love your take on this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I personally do not like using third party tools, and I simply use adb/fastboot. The Android Flash Tool is simply for flashing factory firmware and cannot flash custom images.
Cheetah_Bear said:
Feel free to answer any or none of these questions. I know it's a lot but id rather ask questions to a staff member before proceeding?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No worries. It sounds like you have a lot to learn but you're at the right place; XDA is full of knowledgeable people who can help you out.
Cheetah_Bear said:
Thanks again for the guide!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your appreciation.

Well, with a bit of hard work and head-bashing into my desk, my phone is fully rooted and backed up. I want to extend my thanks again for this guide. I'll be sure to return when the next updates roles around.
I am still trying to play around with Safety Net and my financial app. YASNAC says my Saftey Net passes, but my finance app won't open because it's still, somehow, detecting root, even after being placed under the Deny List.
Regardless, that is a problem for another day. Today is a day of celebration because my phone is rooted and rocking.
Thank you again.

Cheetah_Bear said:
Well, with a bit of hard work and head-bashing into my desk, my phone is fully rooted and backed up. I want to extend my thanks again for this guide. I'll be sure to return when the next updates roles around.
I am still trying to play around with Safety Net and my financial app. YASNAC says my Saftey Net passes, but my finance app won't open because it's still, somehow, detecting root, even after being placed under the Deny List.
Regardless, that is a problem for another day. Today is a day of celebration because my phone is rooted and rocking.
Thank you again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Make sure you're using USNF and MHPC; DenyList alone won't do it.
You may also have to block the Play Store due to Play Protect.

Can I do anything with my 3a XL if the OEM debugging is greyed out? Honestly, is it really moddless?

BadRx said:
Can I do anything with my 3a XL if the OEM debugging is greyed out? Honestly, is it really moddless?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most likely not. There is no way to force unlock. If you bought a branded variant like Verizon, unlocking the bootloader is not possible.

V0latyle said:
Most likely not. There is no way to force unlock. If you bought a branded variant like Verizon, unlocking the bootloader is not possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why is that? I find that sooo... disturbing. From a hobbyist point of view this is just so unacceptable. You mean to tell me that I can't flash the chips somehow on this phone? Now there was a way carrier lock... you mean to tell me there is no way to carrier unlock? Not even the carrier? That's... just hard to believe.

BadRx said:
Why is that? I find that sooo... disturbing. From a hobbyist point of view this is just so unacceptable. You mean to tell me that I can't flash the chips somehow on this phone? Now there was a way carrier lock... you mean to tell me there is no way to carrier unlock? Not even the carrier? That's... just hard to believe.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm talking about bootloader unlock. It is a well known fact, having been established since the original Pixel (if not the Nexus series) that Google devices sold through carriers such as Verizon are not bootloader unlockable. This is why if you want a completely unlocked device, you must buy directly from Google.
As far as carrier unlock...that depends on the carrier. If you bought your device from Google, it's already carrier unlocked. But if you bought it through a carrier, they may or may not unlock it depending on their own policies. I don't know what Verizon's is, but most US carriers will allow carrier unlock as long as 1) there is no lien on the device (it's paid off) and 2) your account is not under contractual obligations.
It may seem weird to you, but they're protecting their investments. You can't reasonably expect a carrier to provide you a device at a discount with no restrictions. Either buy used from Swappa, or new full price from Google, and use the carrier only as a carrier. If you buy a phone through them, don't expect the same freedom.

Hi, before spamming all my stuff here, is this the right place to ask for help in the process of rooting (installing magisk and patching the boot.img) my pixel 3a XL?
thank you
Alex

4L3xN3t said:
Hi, before spamming all my stuff here, is this the right place to ask for help in the process of rooting (installing magisk and patching the boot.img) my pixel 3a XL?
thank you
Alex
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you read the OP?

V0latyle said:
Did you read the OP?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, I spent much more time on reading it and preparing the needed stuff than doing the process
if you're referring to the warning, yes, I'm quite familiar with ADB, Magisk, Android and Root, but not 100%. I've played with some devices in the past, but the last before the 3aXL was a Nexus6 and a lot of thing changed in the root process and I'm a bit confused.
anyway, if it's ok, I would try to explain what's appening, I got a bootloop at the last step of rooting
Alex

4L3xN3t said:
yes, I spent much more time on reading it and preparing the needed stuff than doing the process
if you're referring to the warning, yes, I'm quite familiar with ADB, Magisk, Android and Root, but not 100%. I've played with some devices in the past, but the last before the 3aXL was a Nexus6 and a lot of thing changed in the root process and I'm a bit confused.
anyway, if it's ok, I would try to explain what's appening, I got a bootloop at the last step of rooting
Alex
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What Android build are you on? Did you update?
What version of Magisk are you using?
What process did you use to root?

V0latyle said:
What Android build are you on? Did you update?
What version of Magisk are you using?
What process did you use to root?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, well, so, as I said I've an unlocked Pixel 3aXL with a stock ROM (bonito-sp2a.220505.006).
I'm on a fresh configured PC and just downloaded the latest platform-tools, USB driver, factory image, Magisk 25.2 canary.
Followed the guide in this page for the initial root, so I installed magisk, took the boot.img from the factory image, copied into the phone and patched via Magisk app. copied the patched boot.img into my platform-tools folder and flashed on the phone from the recovery via fastboot.
Now, after rebooting, the bootloop came. I just fix it flashing back the factory image, but of corse i'm still not rooted.
Maybe something related to the two boot_a and boot_b slots?
reading the boot.img flashing log it said it was flashed on boot_a (unfortunately i didn't check the actual slot before, I suppose was still boot_a) but then when i flashed the factory image to get rid of the bootloop it went on boot_b.
So I suspect I could have a misalignment beetween the two slot, but I'm not sure at all and anyway don't know exactly how to align them.
thank you

4L3xN3t said:
ok, well, so, as I said I've an unlocked Pixel 3aXL with a stock ROM (bonito-sp2a.220505.006).
I'm on a fresh configured PC and just downloaded the latest platform-tools, USB driver, factory image, Magisk 25.2 canary.
Followed the guide in this page for the initial root, so I installed magisk, took the boot.img from the factory image, copied into the phone and patched via Magisk app. copied the patched boot.img into my platform-tools folder and flashed on the phone from the recovery via fastboot.
Now, after rebooting, the bootloop came. I just fix it flashing back the factory image, but of corse i'm still not rooted.
Maybe something related to the two boot_a and boot_b slots?
reading the boot.img flashing log it said it was flashed on boot_a (unfortunately i didn't check the actual slot before, I suppose was still boot_a) but then when i flashed the factory image to get rid of the bootloop it went on boot_b.
So I suspect I could have a misalignment beetween the two slot, but I'm not sure at all and anyway don't know exactly how to align them.
thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, there's no "misalignment" between slots. Each slot has its own partitions, and the system will boot from whatever slot is active. So, since you're on Slot A, the system will load the boot image from /boot_a, and run the system from /system_a. It doesn't cross over.
When I asked "what build" are you running, I meant which Android release, not your phone type. I also asked how you updated - factory image or OTA?
Where did you download Magisk from? There is no "25.2 canary". The current Canary is 25203, but Stable should work just fine.
I suspect you may be doing something wrong, hence the bootloop. Rule of thumb: When you encounter a problem. ALWAYS make sure you're doing everything right, and don't assume there's something wrong with the system until you have gone back through the instructions and made sure you're doing everything correctly.
Word of advice: When someone asks you specific questions, make sure you answer all of them with as much detail as possible. The more information we have, the better we are able to help you.

V0latyle said:
No, there's no "misalignment" between slots. Each slot has its own partitions, and the system will boot from whatever slot is active. So, since you're on Slot A, the system will load the boot image from /boot_a, and run the system from /system_a. It doesn't cross over.
When I asked "what build" are you running, I meant which Android release, not your phone type. I also asked how you updated - factory image or OTA?
Where did you download Magisk from? There is no "25.2 canary". The current Canary is 25203, but Stable should work just fine.
I suspect you may be doing something wrong, hence the bootloop. Rule of thumb: When you encounter a problem. ALWAYS make sure you're doing everything right, and don't assume there's something wrong with the system until you have gone back through the instructions and made sure you're doing everything correctly.
Word of advice: When someone asks you specific questions, make sure you answer all of them with as much detail as possible. The more information we have, the better we are able to help you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok, sorry, you're right, I lost something.
I wrote "bonito-sp2a.220505.006" because it thought it gives the information that I'm on the last available update for this phone of android 12.1. I always updated via OTA (I think it could be also interesting to know that I hadn't Magisk installed or any other modification at the time of the last update).
about Magisk I assumed that "25203" means "a release (the third?) of the 25.2", my fault...but anyway yes, I have the canary 25203, used it instead of the stable because sometimes in the past with other phones using it was the solution to some installation issues but I think this is not the problem.
I repeated the process (only the 9 steps of the "Spoiler: Initial Root / Create Master Root Image" guide) more than once, so I'm trying to understand if there might be something else wrong or corrupted.
partially unrelated question about the slots: if I force to boot from the slot A I'm supposed to go back to the bootloop, right?
Did you have anything in mind about this?
thank you

4L3xN3t said:
ok, sorry, you're right, I lost something.
I wrote "bonito-sp2a.220505.006" because it thought it gives the information that I'm on the last available update for this phone of android 12.1. I always updated via OTA (I think it could be also interesting to know that I hadn't Magisk installed or any other modification at the time of the last update).
about Magisk I assumed that "25203" means "a release (the third?) of the 25.2", my fault...but anyway yes, I have the canary 25203, used it instead of the stable because sometimes in the past with other phones using it was the solution to some installation issues but I think this is not the problem.
I repeated the process (only the 9 steps of the "Spoiler: Initial Root / Create Master Root Image" guide) more than once, so I'm trying to understand if there might be something else wrong or corrupted.
partially unrelated question about the slots: if I force to boot from the slot A I'm supposed to go back to the bootloop, right?
Did you have anything in mind about this?
thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I generally recommend against switching slots unless absolutely necessary, and especially not if you update via OTA. The reason for this is if you force the device to boot from the "old" slot, Anti-Rollback Protection will kick in and cause a boot loop.
Since you're able to boot with the unpatched image, just flash that for the time being. Your device has to finish up the update after booting, and the rooted image can sometimes cause a problem with this. Once the device has been running for a bit, say 10 minutes or so, you should be able to safety flash the patched image.
Were you rooted before?

V0latyle said:
I generally recommend against switching slots unless absolutely necessary, and especially not if you update via OTA. The reason for this is if you force the device to boot from the "old" slot, Anti-Rollback Protection will kick in and cause a boot loop.
Since you're able to boot with the unpatched image, just flash that for the time being. Your device has to finish up the update after booting, and the rooted image can sometimes cause a problem with this. Once the device has been running for a bit, say 10 minutes or so, you should be able to safety flash the patched image.
Were you rooted before?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The last update was done in May, so I think I waited way more than 10minutes
I really can't remember if I rooted when I bought it, with android 10, but if so (with magisk anyway), after the upgrade to 11 I didn't root again for sure.

4L3xN3t said:
The last update was done in May, so I think I waited way more than 10minutes
I really can't remember if I rooted when I bought it, with android 10, but if so (with magisk anyway), after the upgrade to 11 I didn't root again for sure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm. I am not sure why you are having problems now. The only thing I can suggest is flash the factory image using the instructions in the OP; you can also use the Android Flash Tool. You shouldn't need to wipe your device. Double and triple check to make sure you're patching the correct boot image, maybe post some screenshots or something (use spoilers) to show what you're doing. 99% of the time, if you are using the correct software, the problem is likely Magisk modules or incorrect patching.

V0latyle said:
Hmm. I am not sure why you are having problems now. The only thing I can suggest is flash the factory image using the instructions in the OP; you can also use the Android Flash Tool. You shouldn't need to wipe your device. Double and triple check to make sure you're patching the correct boot image, maybe post some screenshots or something (use spoilers) to show what you're doing. 99% of the time, if you are using the correct software, the problem is likely Magisk modules or incorrect patching.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
when I flash the factory image (as I did l 2days ago), I use the "flash-all.bat" included in the original zip after I delete the "-w" from "fastboot -w update imagexyz.zip" and this way it doesn't wipe the phone.
I'll try again in the nex days (hope to have time in the weekend) doing some screenshot
stay tuned.
thank you