Database Info

[Q] ROM Updates

Hi everyone. I'm new to XDA, so I'd like to take the time in advance to tell all of you developers and contributors how much I appreciate what you do. XDA has some of the brightest minds in the world. The information contained here has already saved me (and my Nexus 7) quite a few times.
With that said, I'd like to know more about the ins and outs of flashing ROMs (and kernels) and how to do it properly without losing everything (music, pics, etc). Also, how flash updates to ROMs: do I need to wipe and reload everything with each update, and and can I flash the LATEST update or do I have to go back and flash each and every update in order of their release? If anyone could direct me to the proper thread(s) I'd greatly appreciate it. There's so much info here that its easy to get lost. I truly appreciate any help and/or direction.

phys_of_ex said:
Hi everyone. I'm new to XDA, so I'd like to take the time in advance to tell all of you developers and contributors how much I appreciate what you do. XDA has some of the brightest minds in the world. The information contained here has already saved me (and my Nexus 7) quite a few times.
With that said, I'd like to know more about the ins and outs of flashing ROMs (and kernels) and how to do it properly without losing everything (music, pics, etc). Also, how flash updates to ROMs: do I need to wipe and reload everything with each update, and and can I flash the LATEST update or do I have to go back and flash each and every update in order of their release? If anyone could direct me to the proper thread(s) I'd greatly appreciate it. There's so much info here that its easy to get lost. I truly appreciate any help and/or direction.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, I'm glad you're happy with XDA.
I'm not a developer but I can tell you about flashing ROMs.
When flashing the latest version of a ROM/kernel you don't have to flash all previous versions
When flashing a new ROM (E.g CyanogenMod) over your stock/current ROM (That isn't CM) you must perform a data wipe/factory reset and wipe the cache. To save data use Titanium backup to backup all your apps, copy all files available to PC and make a Nandroid backup incase the flash fails.
When flashing an update (E.g Cyanogen M6 over M5) most of the time you don't have to backup all apps etc but most people do incase something goes wrong (which it can), however when flashing a nightly/experimental over a M-build you must wipe data and cache.
When flashing a kernel the same rule applies as flashing a new ROM (Backup, Wipe, Restart)
Hope I could help and good luck exploring ROMs and Kernels

[Q] Installed TWRP. I have questions on it's use cases.

I am new to android. I got sick of apps not being able to write to my SD card so I eventually got the guts to attempt rooting (which worked) and then I even convinced myself to try and install TWRP because I heard I can type commands in there to get my device still rooted after encrypting since superSU does not work after encryption (not tried it yet).
I updated to a new version of TWRP 2.8 I think? Any way, what kind of safety net do I have now? I am in the process of doing a fresh backup (everything ticked) with this new version of TWRP and I will trash the old one once this is done. I had zero intentions of flashing custom OS' on my Galaxy S4 mini (I9195 LTE) for fear of bricking my first ever brand new android phone.
Once this backup is created (and duplicated on every damn hard drive I have for backup purposes...) what kind of protection is this? Could I experiment with Cyanogen Mod and have no fear of it failing to load, have problems with it once installed, something go wrong and phone won't boot up? Would I be able to load my backup into TWRP and magically the phone would be in the state it is in today, rooted and everything?
If there are any things I should know I would appreciate being made aware of them before I dare proceed with any (what I assume would be potentially dangerous things) flashing custom roms etc because I want to always ensure I can get my phone to exactly the state it is now, with all my google apps still installed and everything. With everything ticked on my backup, is there anything that wouldn't be able to be restored, as in apps/data or anything?
Sorry for sounding like a noob, but as far as android and flashing is concerned, I am a noob.
tldr; Essentially I just want to be informed, as well as I can be, as to what I can now do (that I have TWRP installed and made a backup) and what I still shouldn't do, what isn't covered in a backup with all boxes ticked etc.

Morthawt said:
I am new to android. I got sick of apps not being able to write to my SD card so I eventually got the guts to attempt rooting (which worked) and then I even convinced myself to try and install TWRP because I heard I can type commands in there to get my device still rooted after encrypting since superSU does not work after encryption (not tried it yet).
I updated to a new version of TWRP 2.8 I think? Any way, what kind of safety net do I have now? I am in the process of doing a fresh backup (everything ticked) with this new version of TWRP and I will trash the old one once this is done. I had zero intentions of flashing custom OS' on my Galaxy S4 mini (I9195 LTE) for fear of bricking my first ever brand new android phone.
Once this backup is created (and duplicated on every damn hard drive I have for backup purposes...) what kind of protection is this? Could I experiment with Cyanogen Mod and have no fear of it failing to load, have problems with it once installed, something go wrong and phone won't boot up? Would I be able to load my backup into TWRP and magically the phone would be in the state it is in today, rooted and everything?
If there are any things I should know I would appreciate being made aware of them before I dare proceed with any (what I assume would be potentially dangerous things) flashing custom roms etc because I want to always ensure I can get my phone to exactly the state it is now, with all my google apps still installed and everything. With everything ticked on my backup, is there anything that wouldn't be able to be restored, as in apps/data or anything?
Sorry for sounding like a noob, but as far as android and flashing is concerned, I am a noob.
tldr; Essentially I just want to be informed, as well as I can be, as to what I can now do (that I have TWRP installed and made a backup) and what I still shouldn't do, what isn't covered in a backup with all boxes ticked etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The backup covers /system (Android OS with settings) /data (all user apps with settings) /EFS (Latest TWRP should backup this, too - MOST IMPORTANT as it stores your IMEI and baseband code) /boot (kernel) + caches (not that important)
In any case your phone has a "DOWNLOAD" mode integrated in the bootloader that will allow you to restore all partitions except "EFS" by flashing the stock firmware via ODIN. So as long as you have a EFS backup and nandroid backup and you don't screw up the phones bootloader (You could do this by flashing a firmware for another (incompatible) Samsung model via ODIN) you're on the safe side. You stock rom backup or a custom rom backup can easily be restored via TWRP. Even if TWRP brakes, you can flash it again via ODIN as long as your bootloader is fine.

LS.xD said:
The backup covers /system (Android OS with settings) /data (all user apps with settings) /EFS (Latest TWRP should backup this, too - MOST IMPORTANT as it stores your IMEI and baseband code) /boot (kernel) + caches (not that important)
In any case your phone has a "DOWNLOAD" mode integrated in the bootloader that will allow you to restore all partitions except "EFS" by flashing the stock firmware via ODIN. So as long as you have a EFS backup and nandroid backup and you don't screw up the phones bootloader (You could do this by flashing a firmware for another (incompatible) Samsung model via ODIN) you're on the safe side. You stock rom backup or a custom rom backup can easily be restored via TWRP. Even if TWRP brakes, you can flash it again via ODIN as long as your bootloader is fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ok, so Odin is the only thing that could screw my phone up, given that I have a backup? What about if I attempt to install an incompatible rom via TWRP? Is that just as dangerous? Also if I were to some how screw up the bootloader, how would I fix that? In what circumstance might the bootloader get screwed up? From putting a custom mod on? Or is the bootloader getting screwed something specifically I would have to foolishly mess with?
If I download a cyanogen mod zip file and do the install through TWRP, would that essentially wipe everything and start completely fresh with the new OS as a virgin clean OS? Then I am correct, I hope, that if I want to get back my phone how it is now, with the stock firmware, rooted I would just do an install on TWRP and choose the backup and it would just make everything as it is currently? Even if it were screwed up and unable to boot into an OS? If that is the case, I would be a lot more open to trying different mods.
If I do try a custom rom like Cyanogen, is there an official way to get the google apps like playstore and gmail etc on it? I have seen random guides with strange links like "trust us this is a legit download!" Hmm...
Sorry for all the questions guys, I am just trying to become educated on key things before I attempt any other further things.

Morthawt said:
Ok, so Odin is the only thing that could screw my phone up, given that I have a backup? What about if I attempt to install an incompatible rom via TWRP? Is that just as dangerous? Also if I were to some how screw up the bootloader, how would I fix that? In what circumstance might the bootloader get screwed up? From putting a custom mod on? Or is the bootloader getting screwed something specifically I would have to foolishly mess with?
If I download a cyanogen mod zip file and do the install through TWRP, would that essentially wipe everything and start completely fresh with the new OS as a virgin clean OS? Then I am correct, I hope, that if I want to get back my phone how it is now, with the stock firmware, rooted I would just do an install on TWRP and choose the backup and it would just make everything as it is currently? Even if it were screwed up and unable to boot into an OS? If that is the case, I would be a lot more open to trying different mods.
If I do try a custom rom like Cyanogen, is there an official way to get the google apps like playstore and gmail etc on it? I have seen random guides with strange links like "trust us this is a legit download!" Hmm...
Sorry for all the questions guys, I am just trying to become educated on key things before I attempt any other further things.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Asking is good. Better safe than sorry
Yes, in case flash TWRP via ODIN, restore the backup and you should be fine.
Bootloader repair is about 40$ on ebay.
. Before flashing any new (different) rom,perform a NANDROID BACKUP" + manually internal SD Crad backup and then a FULL WIPE (/system /data /cache /dalvik cache /internal SD (Virgin like)
- If you just install a newer version of the same rom e.g. 03/01/2015 -> 03/14/2015 you only need to wipe /cache /dalvik cache (Not so virgin like)
- You can restore all apps/settings from NANDROID backups with "Titanium Backup" on your new OS
- I never heard of flashing a custom rom via recovery messed up the bootloader on Samsung phones, (In rare cases the EFS but you got the backup)
- Use only THIS GApps and make sure you pick the right version (For Android 4.4.x / 5.0.x / 5.1.x) -> Smallest (Pico bundle) will totally do it, you can install any other needed apps (also google's apps) from the pklaystore. Legit and safe.
Make sure you READ and UNDERSTOOD everything before you start flashing a custom rom.

LS.xD said:
Asking is good. Better safe than sorry
Yes, in case flash TWRP via ODIN, restore the backup and you should be fine.
Bootloader repair is about 40$ on ebay.
. Before flashing any new (different) rom,perform a NANDROID BACKUP" + manually internal SD Crad backup and then a FULL WIPE (/system /data /cache /dalvik cache /internal SD (Virgin like)
- If you just install a newer version of the same rom e.g. 03/01/2015 -> 03/14/2015 you only need to wipe /cache /dalvik cache (Not so virgin like)
- You can restore all apps/settings from NANDROID backups with "Titanium Backup" on your new OS
- I never heard of flashing a custom rom via recovery messed up the bootloader on Samsung phones, (In rare cases the EFS but you got the backup)
- Use only THIS GApps and make sure you pick the right version (For Android 4.4.x / 5.0.x / 5.1.x) -> Smallest (Pico bundle) will totally do it, you can install any other needed apps (also google's apps) from the pklaystore. Legit and safe.
Make sure you READ and UNDERSTOOD everything before you start flashing a custom rom.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I will read everything before trying anything serious like this. I felt as if I was smashing my phone into the ground when I rooted it lol, so dangerous :S, even though I was following a guide. But now that I have all the tickboxes ticked and backed up and I have also copied that backup to 2 different hard drives... I should be safe with that.
So for my additional questions.
Is it possible but unlikely/impossible etc that a custom OS rom install through TWRP would break TWRP to the point of being non-functional to perform restores? (if so I know I could follow the guide again to install TWRP again)
Just to clarify, I should wipe everything except EFS right? When I do a completely new OS rom, perform the install and it should work or it will break. Regardless if it is broken and non functional OR it worked and I don't like it for some reason, I do the same thing again, boot to TWRP, format everything except EFS and install my backup and then the next time my phone is ready for use it will be as if nothing was ever done to it. Does that sound about right? If so, I might have an experiment with Cyanogen.
Also, you said you never heard of the bootloader being screwed over by a TWRP-based rom install. Does that also cover incorrect roms for a different model of the handset or completely different phones? I guess what I mean is, is it safe to perform an OS mod install via TWRP (in case you got the wrong one) and more dangerous to do it through odin if it is the wrong one?
I have a Samsung Galaxy S4 mini GT-I9195 LTE. I see the latest "stable" release is only version 10 of cyanogen mod? Yet there is v11 and v12 versions all without any stable release. Does that mean 11 and 12 won't work on my S4 mini or that it would be a mistake to install it on my phone? Or is there a method I can tell which one would be the best one to get for my phone (newest best)?
Lastly, as for odin, since I have TWRP and a backup of my phone as it is now, is there any reason to use odin for anything other than maybe reinstalling TWRP? If so, what else would require me to use odin that TWRP couldn't do?
Thanks so much for answering my questions, it is really making me feel more confident with the whole process. I don't like going into things blind, I'm a computer techie and like to know what I am doing and why I am doing it. This phone customization business is entirely new to me beyond changing settings and themes lol.

Is it possible but unlikely/impossible etc that a custom OS rom install through TWRP would break TWRP to the point of being non-functional to perform restores? (if so I know I could follow the guide again to install TWRP again)
--> You could flash a wrong zip containing a recovery (Probably you will not do)
Just to clarify, I should wipe everything except EFS right? When I do a completely new OS rom, perform the install and it should work or it will break. Regardless if it is broken and non functional OR it worked and I don't like it for some reason, I do the same thing again, boot to TWRP, format everything except EFS and install my backup and then the next time my phone is ready for use it will be as if nothing was ever done to it. Does that sound about right? If so, I might have an experiment with Cyanogen.
--> Yes
Also, you said you never heard of the bootloader being screwed over by a TWRP-based rom install. Does that also cover incorrect roms for a different model of the handset or completely different phones? I guess what I mean is, is it safe to perform an OS mod install via TWRP (in case you got the wrong one) and more dangerous to do it through odin if it is the wrong one?
--> Every rom has an updater-script that (normally) checks the compatiblity before TWRP installs it
I have a Samsung Galaxy S4 mini GT-I9195 LTE. I see the latest "stable" release is only version 10 of cyanogen mod? Yet there is v11 and v12 versions all without any stable release. Does that mean 11 and 12 won't work on my S4 mini or that it would be a mistake to install it on my phone? Or is there a method I can tell which one would be the best one to get for my phone (newest best)?
--> Stable means NO BUGS, Nightlies are updated nearly every day with the latest commits as they are in development status. May or may not contain bugs. Check out the specific rom thread on xda. Stability of the rom / bugs are discussed there by the users every day. So you can check out which version will work.
Lastly, as for odin, since I have TWRP and a backup of my phone as it is now, is there any reason to use odin for anything other than maybe reinstalling TWRP? If so, what else would require me to use odin that TWRP couldn't do?
--> Restore the phone to fully stock firmware. Such official firmware can be found at SamMobile.com
And most important: Press "thanks" at the botom of my posts

(had to remove quotes due to outside links preventing my posting.)
If I were to flash a stock firmware rom with odin, would it destroy TWRP? At which point I could flash it back on again? Or would TWRP still be there?
I think I am going to actually try Cyanogen, once I decide on a build to try. Are there any "minimum requirements" for cyanogen major versions? Like I could see I shouldn't install CM12 on my S4 mini and should instead try ones prior to 12? Or is it pretty much just a features and updates thing and 12 would work just as effectively (in terms of just "working smoothly" discounting any bugs etc) as 10?
Thanks button pressed on them, because truly your information is extremely helpful.

If I were to flash a stock firmware rom with odin, would it destroy TWRP? At which point I could flash it back on again? Or would TWRP still be there?
--> TWRP will be replaced by the stock recovery. You can instantly flash TWRP again.
I think I am going to actually try Cyanogen, once I decide on a build to try. Are there any "minimum requirements" for cyanogen major versions? Like I could see I shouldn't install CM12 on my S4 mini and should instead try ones prior to 12? Or is it pretty much just a features and updates thing and 12 would work just as effectively (in terms of just "working smoothly" discounting any bugs etc) as 10?
--> Your phone got enough permorfance to handle any kind of android version available. Bugs and performance are rom related.

LS.xD said:
If I were to flash a stock firmware rom with odin, would it destroy TWRP? At which point I could flash it back on again? Or would TWRP still be there?
--> TWRP will be replaced by the stock recovery. You can instantly flash TWRP again.
I think I am going to actually try Cyanogen, once I decide on a build to try. Are there any "minimum requirements" for cyanogen major versions? Like I could see I shouldn't install CM12 on my S4 mini and should instead try ones prior to 12? Or is it pretty much just a features and updates thing and 12 would work just as effectively (in terms of just "working smoothly" discounting any bugs etc) as 10?
--> Your phone got enough permorfance to handle any kind of android version available. Bugs and performance are rom related.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So when they say 5.x isn't coming to the S4 mini, that's a sales thing only?! Not based on performance limitations of my phone's hardware?
EDIT: Should I wipe Preload?

Morthawt said:
So when they say 5.x isn't coming to the S4 mini, that's a sales thing only?! Not based on performance limitations of my phone's hardware?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just like that. I use 5.x on both of my phones
Galaxy Ace II -> performance is okay, with 4.4.4 it runs as hell, better than ever with stock firmware [Last official Android is 4.1]
HTC One S -> Flying on a Lollipop [Last official Android is 4.1]

LS.xD said:
Just like that. I use 5.x on both of my phones
Galaxy Ace II -> performance is okay, with 4.4.4 it runs as hell, better than ever with stock firmware [Last official Android is 4.1]
HTC One S -> Flying on a Lollipop [Last official Android is 4.1]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am having trouble finding any specific information about the S4 mini LTE and CM12. I don't know if I should try the last version of CM11 instead? Not sure to try a CM12 or CM11 at the moment. I am sat here ready to perform the wipe but I just can't make my mind up which to try :|
Which reminds me, if I use the latest CM11, will there be any further security updates and things? Or are updates only on the nightlies? I would hope they will update CM11, I'd hate to think the only way you get updates is on the bleeding unstable edge :S ?

Morthawt said:
I am having trouble finding any specific information about the S4 mini LTE and CM12. I don't know if I should try the last version of CM11 instead? Not sure to try a CM12 or CM11 at the moment. I am sat here ready to perform the wipe but I just can't make my mind up which to try :|
Which reminds me, if I use the latest CM11, will there be any further security updates and things? Or are updates only on the nightlies? I would hope they will update CM11, I'd hate to think the only way you get updates is on the bleeding unstable edge :S ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Possible security issues can be fixed later by modules. By the way, stock firmware is also updated just a few times and stays at this state. If you want as less trouble as possible a CM11 variant will be more sensefull for your purpose. Feel free to get some more informations HERE

LS.xD said:
Possible security issues can be fixed later by modules. By the way, stock firmware is also updated just a few times and stays at this state. If you want as less trouble as possible a CM11 variant will be more sensefull for your purpose. Feel free to get some more informations HERE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am on the latest CM11 snapshot Amazing! Although I am confused by some of the options. Is there any documentation on the OS? I see for Network modes things like "2G | 3G", or "2G | 2G + 3G" and "2G | 3G | 2G + 3G" . I pretty much can assume I know that 2G | 3G means 2 or 3G but when it comes to ones with +'s that is just confusing. 2G and 3G at the same time? No idea lol.

Unfortunately the compass sensor does not work. I may have to either risk trying a CM12 or go to CM10 :/ What would you recommend?

Morthawt said:
Unfortunately the compass sensor does not work. I may have to either risk trying a CM12 or go to CM10 :/ What would you recommend?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
2G = GSM Data
3G = UMTS / HDPA / WCDMA Data
Do you often need the compass sensor?
SlimKAT is a fast, lightweight rom and should be working.

LS.xD said:
2G = GSM Data
3G = UMTS / HDPA / WCDMA Data
Do you often need the compass sensor?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not always but when I am using offline navigation software, it is very handy to see realtime if I am pointed in the right direction instead of having to wait for enough distance to be detected to determine what way I am pointing. I don't like limitations. Period. That is the root of why I am messing with... well, root and roms. I could not use software to write to my SD card because of some security "enhancement" which just crippled the functionality of having an android phone. First I rooted and used SDFIX or what ever it is, now I am testing roms to see if I can find a good one. I have the latest (this year) stable AICP installing and gaps currently. I will give this one a whirl and see what I think. I was disappointed that I could not find a nice "Hey.. this is why you should choose our rom!" page. Nothing. Just a download link and ability to get the source code.
I want to read about all the amazing reasons and features why AICP (or any rom for that matter) is a great choice. But I found no such page.

Morthawt said:
Not always but when I am using offline navigation software, it is very handy to see realtime if I am pointed in the right direction instead of having to wait for enough distance to be detected to determine what way I am pointing. I don't like limitations. Period. That is the root of why I am messing with... well, root and roms. I could not use software to write to my SD card because of some security "enhancement" which just crippled the functionality of having an android phone. First I rooted and used SDFIX or what ever it is, now I am testing roms to see if I can find a good one. I have the latest (this year) stable AICP installing and gaps currently. I will give this one a whirl and see what I think. I was disappointed that I could not find a nice "Hey.. this is why you should choose our rom!" page. Nothing. Just a download link and ability to get the source code.
I want to read about all the amazing reasons and features why AICP (or any rom for that matter) is a great choice. But I found no such page.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can't find any custom rom that fits your needs, you can also choose a modified (debloated) stock firmware if you need 100% functionality.

LS.xD said:
If you can't find any custom rom that fits your needs, you can also choose a modified (debloated) stock firmware if you need 100% functionality.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Those exist in the TWRP zip format? Where can I find those?

Morthawt said:
Those exist in the TWRP zip format? Where can I find those?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I should have read before I answered Seems not to exist for your phone. I don't know the reason.

Has Anyone Gotten a Custom ROM onto a BLN-L24 (US Variant)?

I have tried quite a few ROMs, and all ended up going back to stock firmware because they wouldn't boot. I know I have to format data, and some ROMs ask you to change the data partition as f2fs.
Still, I think that there may be no ROMs that currently work for the US variant. One guy said LOS 13 worked, but when I flashed it, it failed. If someone has gotten it to work, can you please post as many steps as you remember on how to get it work?

Debrand to BLN-L21 following this guide and you're ready to flash cooked ROMs https://forum.xda-developers.com/honor-6x/how-to/guide-successful-debranding-to-bln-t3701050

RedSkull23 said:
Debrand to BLN-L21 following this guide and you're ready to flash cooked ROMs https://forum.xda-developers.com/honor-6x/how-to/guide-successful-debranding-to-bln-t3701050
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but wouldn't there be more issues down the line with a debranded phone? What if I soft-bricked my phone, it seems like it'd be really hard to restore? Has anyone actually ever done this on a BLN-L24?

Hello all,
I too am having issues with flashing roms to this device, US variant (BLN-L24). In my particular case, the rom boots up (EliteRom v7.1) and will actually function. However, wifi does not work, as well as I have no sound whatsoever. Youtube also will not play, nor will any videos, which I'm guessing is tied to whatever issue is with the sound. I have flashed multiple times per the step by step instructions, as well as following the Youtube video, all with the same result over the last few days. At this point, my phone is effectively useless to me, though cellular data does still work, just no calls can be answered. Anyone have any suggestions I might be able to follow? Also, even my TWRP backup that I made before installing the rom will not restore at this point. Any help is appreciated, thanks.

Jessooca said:
You must be missing a step or something, because [Elite ROM][EMUI 5.1] Elite ROM v7.1 for Honor 6X by HassanMirza01 works on the L24 us variant without issues, I have none.
Perhaps go back to stock and start over. I haven't had any issues with his rom and I didn't do anything more than what's needed to root/install twrp and flash the rom per his instructions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just followed the instructions; I believe to the best I could, and I'm stuck in a bootloop now. Which version of EMUI were you on before flashing? I was on EMUI 5.0 which may be my issue.
I started from EMUI 5.0
Unlocked my bootloader
Let it factory reset
Installed the Elite TWRP on the page
Booted to Elite TWRP
Formatted all partitions excpet for external sd card
Reformatted Data to f2fs
Re-wiped data
Checked that it was f2fs
Installed Elite ROM zip
Installed open gapps 7.0 ARM64
Installed the patch
Rebooted
Bootloop

i4ybrid said:
I just followed the instructions; I believe to the best I could, and I'm stuck in a bootloop now. Which version of EMUI were you on before flashing? I was on EMUI 5.0 which may be my issue.
I started from EMUI 5.0
Unlocked my bootloader
Let it factory reset
Installed the Elite TWRP on the page
Booted to Elite TWRP
Formatted all partitions excpet for external sd card
Reformatted Data to f2fs
Re-wiped data
Checked that it was f2fs
Installed Elite ROM zip
Installed open gapps 7.0 ARM64
Installed the patch
Rebooted
Bootloop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On one of the attempts that I did for installing, I installed the patch and it put me in a boot loop. Maybe not installing the patch can help you?

I cant get anything to work for the US version. Sure stuff boots but some of it is just broken. On octOS i am unable to use root unless i switch supersu to automatically grant root to apps. I cant get root access by using prompt because nothing pops up. On crdroid i have the same exact issue. Id rather have the prompt than allow any app root access without my knowledge. With ELITE ROM my first boot brings up a home screen with no keyboard. It completely skips any kind of setup screen. I can get the setup screen by flashing a keyboard from an aroma gapps installer but then i lose google services. The US version also seems to be forgotten as for most roms you wont see it anywhere under supported lists.

I've never been able to get a custom rom to work on my BLN-L24. Everything just ends in a never-ending bootloop of frustration.
Though, I have only ever tried with EMUI 5.0+. Maybe an earlier version of EMUI gets better results...?

code_name_duchess said:
I've never been able to get a custom rom to work on my BLN-L24. Everything just ends in a never-ending bootloop of frustration.
Though, I have only ever tried with EMUI 5.0+. Maybe an earlier version of EMUI gets better results...?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It really sucks that nothing seems to work. Ive tried flashing using multiple recoveries and ive tried all kinds of flashing to fix issues with the ROMS. Nothing helps. If anyone has successfully gotten a ROM fully working on BLN-L24 they need to tell people exactly what they did step by step.

It seems that for the roms located here, they seem to all assume that the phone has been debranded to bln-l21 variant. I don't know if it has any bearing on the current issues we're all experiencing, but I did notice that all twrps available for this device on the forums state they are the "Open Kirin Edition". It's been a while since I've rooted or rom'd a phone besides this one, but I've never encountered a twrp with a custom name like that.
I know that the developer of the EliteRom had his custom twrp, but is there a different twrp besides that one that does not state it is an "Open Kirin Edition"? Like I said, not sure if it has any bearing on things here, but I've been very confused about that.

TurtlePwr82 said:
It seems that for the roms located here, they seem to all assume that the phone has been debranded to bln-l21 variant. I don't know if it has any bearing on the current issues we're all experiencing, but I did notice that all twrps available for this device on the forums state they are the "Open Kirin Edition". It's been a while since I've rooted or rom'd a phone besides this one, but I've never encountered a twrp with a custom name like that.
I know that the developer of the EliteRom had his custom twrp, but is there a different twrp besides that one that does not state it is an "Open Kirin Edition"? Like I said, not sure if it has any bearing on things here, but I've been very confused about that.
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For most phone i've ever owned you never had to change the recovery for each ROM. Its confusing. Most recoverys say Open Kirin Edition when booting. What confuses me is why we need to debrand to get the ROMS to work. If the phone pretty much run on the same hardware then why is L24 having so many issues? Why are the devs not testing on these devices?

BakedOnSomeSour said:
For most phone i've ever owned you never had to change the recovery for each ROM. Its confusing
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Right, that's what I was thinking. For any phone I've ever rom'd, there was always just one twrp that everyone worked from.
Edit: found this while looking through the roll back to stock forum. I don't know if it will help anyone else, but figured I'd put it here as well if it might. All credit for this goes to the original poster johnnyrichter:
johnnyrichter said:
Tried this method after being on LineageOS for a week or two and having poor LTE signal, no MMS, and voicemail issues so I'm trying to go back to stock so I can have a fully functional phone since I rely on it heavily for work. Followed all steps using BLN-L24 B360 firmware. On step 10 I rebooted to update and it went right to "5% Installing Update" and stuck there for 5 mins, then rebooted itself, has been sitting at "honor" boot screen for 14 minutes so I made it reboot to EMUI recovery, wiped/factory reset, rebooted, loaded EMUI afte 2 more minutes. Appears to have worked and hopefully my issues are fixed!
Edit: Signal, mms, and voicemail issues fixed.
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Hopefully will benefit someone here as well.

When debranding the BLN-L24, and branding it to BLN-L21, are there any issues with the ROMs once they're installed? I imagine the radios, and such are different for the two models??

BakedOnSomeSour said:
Why are the devs not testing on these devices?
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Click to collapse
Devs can only test devices they have in possession. If they don't have your phone model, how are they going to test it?

galapagos said:
Devs can only test devices they have in possession. If they don't have your phone model, how are they going to test it?
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well, many don't want to give them a phone because most developers here tend to stop work on a ROM and leave people hanging.

I have gotten several ROMs working on L24 variant...
Yes it seems to me any Elite kernel based ROM works or should work on the L24. But /data must be ext4 format. Then even that the ROM works, the fingerprint scanner never allows a complete successful scan. I think because it must be f2fs format for that encryption to work or something. This is the link to those ROMS https://hassanmirza01.blogspot.com/p/custom-roms.html?m=1
On the other hand the LOS based ROMs never work or at least they reboot and the screen is always black or the ROM branding just stays there flashing. This sucks cause I want to run the newest Resurrection ROM but I ask the developer about why I have that problem or how long that ROM takes to boot and I never get an answer. He also just put a new beta AOKP ROM up and it does the same black screen thing too.
I am also suspicious it has to do with the version of TWRP. I think some are capable of formatting f2fs correctly or the encryption or whatever. Point is some of the devs need to be a little more consistent answering questions at a minimum. I know it takes time to fix bugs but give us a little heads up.

Question Quick overview questions consideration Upgrading to Android 12 (Miui 13)

Hi everyone,
just now the Global Version of MIUI 13 with Android 12 have been released, there's also the version from Xiaomi.eu available.
I have been following the development a bit and i have a few questions being a rooted user.
- Obviously getting root again shouldn't be a problem with the latest releases of magisk which is flashed via fastboot (boot.img)
- TWRP is not yet able to access encrypted partition on android 12, thus the rom has to be installed via fastboot. Where else could this lead be a shortcoming? Are there alternatives?
I just don't want it to feel like a mistake to upgrade early. So i am looking for some experiences from other users.

Root will be no problem.
About encryption use adb sideload, fastboot, sd card, usb otg. Whatever you like.
Or wipe data and foash dfe zip. Restart to rom, restart recovery and data will be decrypted. Then flash rom you like from internal. But there is again problem where to put dfe.
just buy some chippest sd card for this just for flashing roms and your problem will be solved forever

do you have link?

Don't even bother flashing it or updating to it, it's infested with bugs and there are no performance or battery life improvements since it's just the initial release.

It is basically same with 12.5. It does not even have android 12 features that come stock with it. I tried it, only noteworthy change was the font change MiSans, other than that there was nothing lol.

SnowDenix said:
It is basically same with 12.5. It does not even have android 12 features that come stock with it. I tried it, only noteworthy change was the font change MiSans, other than that there was nothing lol.
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Lol.
Any screenshots around?

Haldi4803 said:
Lol.
Any screenshots around?
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No I already went back to crdroid lol.

Problem with any ROM's after reboot

Hello. After install Pixel Experience, LineageOS, VoltageOS, EvolutionX or any new ROM my Redmi 6 Pro work perfectly. Stable, smooth and fast.
But when i reboot my phone, loading is very very long. Sometimes few minutes.
After this main screen show up but without apps icons. Only wallpaper. Still loading.
After 10min i have notifications about
"(app name) stop working"
For example, "google store stop working" etc.
After 20min ROM is ok but not perfect. Laggy and not stable. I dont know why...
I know. I need new phone, cus this is old crap. But maybe....
Maybe is a little solution. Maybe someone has this problem and fix this...
Please help.

Is the phone as slow if you run twrp first and then ROM?
Did you wipe the internal memory before installing the custom ROM?

Sometimes TWRP stuck on screen but this commands fix this:
fastboot format cache
fastboot format userdata
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Click to collapse
Im using lates version on TWRP.
And when i first time want install new ROM cant wipe old files. Need switch ext4 to ext2 and fix partition and again switch ext4.
So yes. Evry new ROM i wipe evrything. Format all data, fresh new files.

Try using the version of TWRP that was released just before the ROM was released, as the developer tested the installation on such a version. A newer version of TWRP is not always better than an older one.
Since you didn't answer directly, I assume you wiped the Internal Storage.

Yes i wiped Internal Storage.
TWRP version is good as recommended.
I think i need new phone.....

sniper512 said:
(...)
I think i need new phone.....
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Click to collapse
Don't give up so easily. Try going back to stock ROM and see how the system behaves for a longer period of time. If OK, flash the custom ROM again.

I try stock ROM and its slower then anything, but works fine. No problems.
I think is something like android version compatibility. Android 9 works perfect. Android 11 or 12 with problems and 13 even worse then togheter.
I need fast and stable ROM, but now Pixel Experience looks great. Functionality and ease of use is better then EvolutionX or LineageOS. This is simple perfect.
Second i think is something about RAM problem on init.
After long boot RAM ussage is 3.95/4GB
Evrything is slow becouse of full RAM.
But after install fresh ROM ussage is 2,7/4GB