Root & TWRP Lenovo Tab 2 A8-50F (MT8161)
Ok so this is a in depth tutorial on obtaining root and installing twrp for the device in the title. Anything in "quotes" eg, type in cmd "adb devices" quotes should be ignored. This guide is for those who know what root is and know there way around windows and Linux. If you did something wrong i am not liable and maybe you should have read things before trying.
EDIT: for those of you who want to root in one or two clicks i have added support for this device in the ZEUS TOOLKIT wich will root without installing custom recovery.. LINK >> http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2644166
REQUIREMENTS/DOWNLOADS:
-Windows PC & Linux (Ubuntu. virtual box would be fine although i have my pc dual booting both os's)
-Driver Signing Disabled on Windows 7 and above
-Device Drivers
-SpFlash Tool (including scatter file)
-Adb Tools
-TWRP + SuperSU Files
-Insecure Boot.img
LINK FOR ALL REQUIRED FILES >> DOWNLOAD << DOWNLAOAD AND EXTRACT TO DESKTOP
Downlaod all of the above and extract/move everything to a folder which for this guide i will assume will be called ROOT on your DESKTOP
SOME READING:
The Lenovo Tab 2 A8-50F is a rather locked down device with the ability to reflash the stock rom on every reboot if required. In this guide you can only do things in a specific order to be able to get it rooted and stop the stock recovery reflashing. It took me a few times of (soft)bricking my device before i could get it sorted to a stable rooted system with twrp installed. TWRP recovery was not built from source by me personally (it was obtained from a russian website) although i have had to modify the TWRP image as it was boot looping but its sorted and working now. So roughly this is how things are going to go, we will use SpFlash tool to readback the system partition, then use linux to modify a file in the system.img the use SpFlashtool to refalsh the modified system.img. Then we are going to unlock the bootloader and then flash an insecure boot.img along with twrp and then root using chainfire's latest binarys.
THE GUIDE:
STEP 1 - installing the drivers
For this i will assume you you have already got adb driver installed if not please google it i personally used googles generic adb driver.
Please make sure you have disabled driver signing for windows "GO HERE". Now open device manager and right click on your pc's name at the top of the list and select add legacy hardware > click next > check "install the hardaware that i manually select from a list (advance)" and click next > highlight "show all devices" and click next > click "have Disk" > click "browse" > browse to the desktop\root\MTK Drivers all windows\ and choose the folder to match your windows installation and then choose the 32bit or 64bit driver file depending on your windows install > click open > click ok > highlight "MTK USB PORT" > click next > click next > if a warning pops up click install anyway > click finish. Your drivers are now installed for spflash tool to recognise your device.
STEP 2 - backing up system partition
Make sure your device is truned off and disconnected from your computer. Open SPFlash Tool form "Desktop\ROOT\SPFlash_tool\flash_tool.exe" > click "scatter-loading button > browse to "Desktop\Root\ and open MT6735_Android_scatter.txt > click the readback tab > click add > double click the entry which is now listed >browse to "Desktop\Root" and in the filename box type "system.img" > click save > check "HEX" > for region select EMMC_USER > for start address type "0xb000000" > for length type "0x74000000" > click ok > click readback. now with your device turned off connect the usb and the SPFlash tool will begin to backup your system partition to "Desktop\Root\system.img" wait until its finished and continue to the next step.
STEP 3 - editing the system.img
Now we have the system.img transfer it via usb (or whatever means) to your ubuntu machine place system.img in your ~/Home/ folder eg. ~/Home/System.img now open a terminal by pressing CTRL + T > type "mkdir output" press enter > now type "sudo mount -t ext4 -o loop system.img output/" press enter > type your sudo password > press enter > type " cd output" press enter > type "sudo mv recovery-from-boot.p recovery-from-boot.bak" press enter > type "cd" press enter > type "sudo umount output/" press enter. The system.img has now been modified and can be transfered back to windows. Goto next step.
STEP 4 - unlocking bootloader
With device booted to android and usb debugging enabled open cmd prompt and type "cd C:\Users\robert\Desktop\ROOT\adb" > (replace "robert" with your username) press enter > type "adb reboot bootloader". Your device will now reboot into fastboot mode when it displays "fastboot mode in the bottom left of the screen type into cmd "fastboot oem unlock" > press enter > screen will change and ask you to confirm do this by pressing vol+ > wait and when a screen with three boot options appears DO NOTHING and go to next step.
STEP 5 - flashing insecure boot.img
Now you should have the ability to flash the boot. Type into cmd "fastboot flash boot boot.img" the device will let you know it is done and when it is done flashing just type into cmd "fastboot reboot" and let the device fully boot and goto the next step.
STEP 6 - flashing modified system.img
now open SPFlash tool again it should have remembered the scatterfile if not reload the scatter file. In the main window of the download tab make sure ONLY system is checked then in the location colum click the space in line with system and browse to your modified system.img and click open. At this point before doing anything make sure your device is turned off and not connected to the computer in any way. Now click Download in SPFlash tool then connect your device via usb while turned off and the tool will begin flashing the system.img wait until it is finished and a green tick appears in flash tool and if your device does not boot automatically then unplug it and reboot it wait until it fully rebooted and goto next step. You can close flash tool for now.
STEP 7 - flashing TWRP recovery
with your devfice now booted with a custom boot and system image open cmd prompt and type "cd C:\Users\robert\Desktop\ROOT\adb" > (replace "robert" with your username) press enter > type "adb reboot bootloader" > press enter your device will boot into fastboot mode again when it has type "fastboot flash recovery recovery.img" > press enter > when its done type "fastboot reboot" > press enter now wait for the device to fully boot and goto next step
STEP 8 - flashing Supersu by Chainfire
Now your device has rebooted it will be missing the super user app and all binary's so open file explorer on your computer and copy the SuperSU-v2.46.zip from the ROOT folder on the desktop to the download folder on your device after doing that open cmd prompt and type "cd C:\Users\robert\Desktop\ROOT\adb" > (replace "robert" with your username) press enter > type "adb reboot recovery" > press enter. Your device will now reboot into TWRP recovery check the little box and swipe the arrow at the bottom to continue now touch install > touch Download > touch SuperSU-v2.46.zip and finally swipe to install. when it is finished reboot. Hey presto one rooted device with a fully working twrp. reboot and download busybox from play store and install as some programs like system app remover need some binarys from busybox.
After following the above steps you will have a fully rooted device wich can be backed up via twrp and flashed via twrp. now i have figured this out, i think its someone elses turn to build a rom for it preferably Cyanogenmod Thanks for reading this guide and all the best luck with your new rooted device. please remember to click thanks.
Have you found a way to root it without the need for Linux?
Hi
I would like to know if this guide will work for MT-8735
Thanks in advance,
Dimitris
Anyone found a way to root MT8735 version A8-50L or A8-50LC?
The files seem to be missing...
Any help would be much appreciated. I used the guide fine up until the Step 5.
Now I'm a bit stuck.
Gromit1996 said:
The files seem to be missing...
Any help would be much appreciated. I used the guide fine up until the Step 5.
Now I'm a bit stuck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I used something called Kingroot along with the info and files found here https://forums.lenovo.com/t5/Androi...-to-root-TAB2-A8-50-WiFi-version/td-p/2181021 to help me root without using linux. There is a ROM listed there. If you use Kingroot.apk, you'll have to run it 2 or 3 times to get the ROOT to stick, then you can enable debugging, and oem unlocking in dev options. Afterwards, you can use fastboot to unlock the bootloader and once that's done, use the SP Flash tool to download Max Choen's rom to the device, install SuperSU and Busybox and your gravy!!!
what files? that post does not have any files provided and could someone upload the files that are missing from the post so we could also use them?
keith.valdez said:
I used something called Kingroot along with the info and files found here https://forums.lenovo.com/t5/Androi...-to-root-TAB2-A8-50-WiFi-version/td-p/2181021 to help me root without using linux. There is a ROM listed there. If you use Kingroot.apk, you'll have to run it 2 or 3 times to get the ROOT to stick, then you can enable debugging, and oem unlocking in dev options. Afterwards, you can use fastboot to unlock the bootloader and once that's done, use the SP Flash tool to download Max Choen's rom to the device, install SuperSU and Busybox and your gravy!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Who is Max Choen and there are no files in the link provided.
Sent from my LG-D852 using Tapatalk
If you guys read the entire post in the link I sent you might be able to get where I got. I'm not a dev and not much for writing tutorials but my process went,
1. KingRoot
2. Unlock boot loader
3. Flash twrp via fastboot or flashify
4. Factory reset
5. Reinstall King root and re root.
6. Format and partition memory card
7. Install apps2sd
8. Install Xposed
9. Install obb to SD module
10. Enjoy tablet with 64gb of space with tons of large data games installed!!!! (Note that this step requires you own a 64 gig memory card)
keith.valdez said:
If you guys read the entire post in the link I sent you might be able to get where I got. I'm not a dev and not much for writing tutorials but my process went,
1. KingRoot
2. Unlock boot loader
3. Flash twrp via fastboot or flashify
4. Factory reset
5. Reinstall King root and re root.
6. Format and partition memory card
7. Install apps2sd
8. Install Xposed
9. Install obb to SD module
10. Enjoy tablet with 64gb of space with tons of large data games installed!!!! (Note that this step requires you own a 64 gig memory card)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where are you getting a twrp build for this tablet?
Sent from my Lenovo TAB 2 A8-50F using Tapatalk
Gromit1996 said:
Where are you getting a twrp build for this tablet?
Sent from my Lenovo TAB 2 A8-50F using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will post it in the morning, I think it's on my wife's laptop. The link I posted USED TO lead you to a post that had the files I mentioned and the process I followed. Now they are just suggesting you simply root using Kingo... Which is fine and dandy but does not give you the ability to format your memory card. I will post my recovery image for yall in the morning. You would just have to use KingRoot and then flash TWRP using Flashify once you have a successful root. Then you can format your card and install apps2sd of your choice and xposed with the obb2sd module! That's what I got going on, got TONS of large data games on the tablet cause I installed a very fast 64gb memory card, and BIGGITY BAM!!!! Turned this little budget tablet into something decent for the kiddos! Just wish we could do something about that terrible 1gb of memory, but hell, I was able to get this far so I'm pretty happy!:laugh::good:
keith.valdez said:
I will post it in the morning
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Define morning in your neck of the woods. [emoji2]
Sent from my Lenovo TAB 2 A8-50F using Tapatalk
Here it is!
Had some things to take care of first. Got a wife and kids to care for before I do my geek stuff. This is not a flashable zip! You must unzip the .img file and use Flashify after a successful KingRoot.
P.S. all credit goes to the original creators of this build of twrp I originally obtained in This Very XDA post we are conversing in! All I did was download this file, I am not a dev andi do not take credit or responsibility for any of the files I've used to root this device! Cheers!!!!
Okay... Thanks. I have SuperSU installed and working. TWRP installed and working, but I haven't unlocked the bootloader.
Will this prevent me from installing xposed framework, do you know?
And the which apps, by which developers, do you install to move apps to SD card?
Thanks for your help!
Sent from my LG-D852 using Tapatalk
I am using Link2SD, Xposed OBB2SD module. That's about it. Not sure if bootloader unlocking is even necessary for anything.
keith.valdez said:
I am using Link2SD, Xposed OBB2SD module. That's about it. Not sure if bootloader unlocking is even necessary for anything.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just to get the custom recovery to stick.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using XDA-Developers mobile app
Can you flash supersu from stock recovery or do i have to flash twrp first?
I used KingRoot (ver 4.8.2) to root my Lenovo Tab2 A8-50F Tablet.
I used KingRoot as part of a SuperTool. The SuperTool, using a batchfile script, also removed KingRoot after the tablet was rooted and then installed SuperSU.
The SuperTool (April 6, 2016 version) was created by xda's RootJunky for the Amazon Fire 7 5th gen tablet, using KingRoot and SuperSU, but it rooted my Lenovo Tab2 A8-50F Tablet, uninstalled KingRoot and installed SuperSU, all with only a couple of mouse clicks.
Even if you are already rooted with KingRoot, you can use this tool to uninstall KingRoot and install SuperSU. (Just run the tool, let it re-install KingRoot, don't run KingRoot but hit Enter on the SuperTool to then uninstall KingRoot and install SuperSU).
Lenovo Tab2 A8-50F Tablet info:
Model Number: Lenovo TAB 2 A8-50F
Android version: 5.1
Kernel version: 3.10.65
Build number: A8-50F_S000037_151023_ROW
Software version: A8-50F_151023
Hardware version; LenovoPad A8-50F
The SuperTool batch file script rooted the tablet with KingRoot and then uninstalled KingRoot and installed SuperSu.
I have since installed ES File Manager, Titanium Backup, Link2sd on the tablet. Root is totally working. Rooted with only a couple of clicks!
Just enable Developer options on Lenovo Tab2 A8-50F (by tapping tablet Build Number 7 to 10 times [Settings, About Tablet, Build Number (tap 7 to 10 times)]), enable USB debugging on Tablet in the Developer options settings.
Connect Tablet to Windows 10 with a USB data cable (I used the USB 2.0 port). When screen message on the Tablet mentions connections, make sure it is in the MTP mode.
Extract RootJunky's SuperTool Zip file to the Windows 10 desktop.
Run RootJunky's SuperTool (Amazon-Fire-5th-gen.bat) You may have to read the instructions on the pages below and install adb drivers. Pick option #6 Root. Choose Option #3: version 5.1.2. This will run a script that installs KingRoot, allows you to run it manually, and then removes KingRoot and installs SuperSU.
Press enter and KingRoot will be installed on the Tablet from the SuperTool. (approve any messages that appear on Tablet screen) Now don't touch the PC SuperTool until the Tablet is rooted.
Open KingRoot on the Tablet and run it. You may have to run KingRoot several times and the Tablet may reboot. Just keep running KingRoot until the Tablet is rooted. After KingRoot reaches 100%, then press ENTER on the PC.
The SuperTool will now uninstall KingRoot and install SuperSU on the Tablet.
Choose NORMAL SuperSU install on the Tablet when prompted. When SuperSU is installed, reboot the Tablet. Disconnect data cable.
After reboot the Lenovo Tab2 A8-50F Tablet is rooted. There will be a request by SuperSU to upgrade. Approve it. You can now install Titanium Backup, Link2sd, ES File Manager, etc. Your Tablet is rooted. As easy as that. THANKS ROOTJUNKY!!!
Info and links to Download RootJunky's SuperTool at these pages:
Amazon Fire 5th Gen [SuperTool] Root, Google play install, block ota updates and more
http://forum.xda-developers.com/amazon-fire/development/amazon-fire-5th-gen-supertool-root-t3272695
"AmazonFire5thGenSuperTool.zip" 2016-04-06 version
http://rootjunkysdl.com/files/?dir=Amazon Fire 5th gen/SuperTool
for those of you who want to root in one or two clicks i have added support for this device in the ZEUS TOOLKIT wich will root without installing custom recovery.. LINK >> http://forum.xda-developers.com/show....php?t=2644166
Hi,
The link does (no longer) work, can you please update it?
Thanks!
===============================================================================
TUTORIAL REVISED AND WRITTEN BY @parcek
===============================================================================
FURTHER UPDATED FOR ROOTING NOOBS: 10 Steps
Two Methods: Windows and Linux
Originally posted by @brad2192: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/lg-aristo-2-root-t3746425
Credit to @tecknight for updated files: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76837384&postcount=2
@brad2192: Updated Tutorial due to people using TWRP (the original tutorial was released before TWRP was released for this device)
1) Backup all apps and data using LG Backup phone apps
2) Enable USB debugging and Unlock OEM. There are two methods in which you will to accomplish this:
First Method: Smartphone GUI
A) On your Lg Aristo 2 Smartphone go into General Tab (If in Tab View), If in list view, scroll down towards System section
"System Settings > About Phone > Software Information > Click on "Build Number" 10 times.
Now go to "System Settings > About Phone > Developer Options > Enable OEM unlock."
and also "System Settings > About Phone > Developer Options > Enable USB debugging."
Second Method: Windows Command Prompt or Linux Terminal:
Windows:
B) Click and drag "adb" file into command prompt and type "reboot bootloader" after it. Press enter.
Click and drag "fastboot" file into command prompt and type "flashing unlock" after it. Press enter.
Linux:
C)Type in your terminal "adb reboot bootloader" and press enter.
Type in your terminal "fastboot flashing unlock."
NOTE: Below has the information which will teach you how to download ADB and FASTBOOT.
3) Download the following:
Updated - TWRP
Updated - Magisk
(Add this file into your phone's SD Card.)
Updated - boot image
Update: Windows:
B)This is how you download ADB and FASTBOOT for Windows: https://dl.google.com/android/repository/platform-tools-latest-windows.zip
4) Open Command Prompt. Then click and drag the adb file (from the latter download link a.k.a platform-tools) into command prompt then press space and type "reboot bootloader" after and then press enter OR power down phone and hold volume down while plugging in USB)
5) Open Command Prompt. Then click and drag the fastboot file (from the latter download link a.k.a platform-tools) into command prompt and then type "flash recovery" after it and then click and drag "newtwrp.img" into command prompt and press enter.)
6) Open Command Prompt. Then click and drag fastboot (from the latter download link a.k.a platform-tools) into command prompt and then type "flash boot" after it and then click and drag "bootimglistedabove.img" into the command prompt after and then press enter) then follow step 7).
Update: Linux:
C) Depending on kernel, for this sake we will use a debian based kernal.
This is how you download ADB and FASTBOOT for Linux: Open terminal and type: "Sudo apt-get install adb && sudo apt-get install fastboot"
4) Open terminal and type: adb reboot bootloader
5) Open terminal and type: fastboot flash recovery (and then click and drag newtwrp.img onto the terminal) and hit enter
6) Open terminal and type: fastboot flash boot (and then click and drag bootfilelistedabove.img onto the terminal) and hit enter
This applies towards both Windows and Linux: continuation after their last listed step written above.
Step 7) Remove battery from phone, in order to force a shut down.
8) Boot into Recovery-TWRP Mode.
How to boot into LG Aristo 2 TWRP Recovery:
a) The phone is off.
b) Hold the volume key and power key at the same time.
c) When the LG logo appears, let go of the power key (while still holding the volume down key) and then click and hold the power key once again.
d)You will be prompted to LG Aristo 2's stock recovery mode asking you if you are sure you would like to delete ur phone.
e) Go to the option "yes" and enter.
f) It will then warn you that can remove all data from your phone.
g) Go to the option "yes" and enter.
You will be in TWRP after this.
TWRP Mode:
9) In TWRP go to "Wipe > Format Data" and then type "yes" and confirm it. (Do not hit reboot, click back a few time and hit reboot > recovery)
10) In TWRP go to "Install > Select Storage" and select your SD Card. Then look for where you placed the "magisk" zip file. Install it.
Your phone is now rooted.
On TWRP menu: Reboot.
Restore your phone if you created an LG backup of your important files (like lets say contacts or applications).
-----------------------------------------------
If any mistakes were made and you phone becomes locked, here is how to go into download mode to repair your LG Aristo 2 into its default stock rom. Credit to @tecknight: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=76837800&postcount=4
1) Power off phone.
2) connect usb to Lg Aristo 2 phone (without connecting the usb into the PC or laptop)
3) Hold volume up key and then connect USB into computer
4) download LG Bridge
5) detect phone
6) click on "Update Error Recovery"
Your LG Aristo 2 will be repaired and factory resetted.
-------------------------------------------------------------
What root means: In terms of PC language, Root means the superuser that has privileges to Add, Modify, and or Delete any kind of system files without prevention. Pretty much, it's like the actual Administrator account on a PC. Natively, whenever we buy a phone, it is as if to say, we are only using a guest account. Since the android OS is basically a Linux based computer (correct me if i am wrong) we can do anything we like... You want iOS emoji's on an android? A custom boot animation? Having root privileges allows you to go beyond your guest user restrictions because you then become the Admin.
Explaining the function of the provided Magisk app: It allows root privileges for programs intended for rooted phones.
There are other popular programs alternative of Magisk app, such as the SuperSU app: http://www.mediafire.com/file/2dljobq6yw93w76/UPDATE-SuperSU-v2.82-20170528234214.zip
--------------------------------
After being officially done setting up your rooted phone, make sure you disable OEM Unlock to avoid seeing the caution message before every boot.
--------------------------
How to backup your phone.
Also, using ADB, backup your phone.
Windows: Click and drag ADB file onto command prompt and paste " backup -apk -shared -all -f "C:\Users\UserName\Desktop\backupfilename.ab" "
Linux: Open terminal and type " adb backup -apk -shared -all -f "C:\Users\UserName\Desktop\backupfilename.ab" "
Update: For those who are encountering "Now unlock your phone and confirm operation" when typing the latter code, there is an alternative and much more easier and safer way to backup your phone.
Boot into TWRP and click on "backup" and then select what you would like to back up and then swipe to confirm the operation.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Confirmed Successful rooting for LG Aristo 2 - June 2018
Thank You Brad and Tec!
Salam Aleykom.
You are a lifesaver my friend
Senorhamburgler said:
You are a lifesaver my friend
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Brad I have a question, is there any way to get a custom ROM on this phone? If not how come? How does it all work?
And are you with Metro PCS as well? What apps can a safely delete to get this phone as close to a stock version of android as I can? Can I seriously just wipe out EVERY metro app? Hows your phone functioning?
tribal1209 said:
Brad I have a question, is there any way to get a custom ROM on this phone? If not how come? How does it all work?
And are you with Metro PCS as well? What apps can a safely delete to get this phone as close to a stock version of android as I can? Can I seriously just wipe out EVERY metro app? Hows your phone functioning?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Until there is a custom recovery built, we won't have custom roms. Dont wipe out every metro app. Anything you arent sure about, look up, or just freeze the app and test results. My phone is fine except SuperSU wont work properly due to the binary being occupied, but this is the best we have so far. I debloated no problem.
tribal1209 said:
Brad I have a question, is there any way to get a custom ROM on this phone? If not how come? How does it all work?
And are you with Metro PCS as well? What apps can a safely delete to get this phone as close to a stock version of android as I can? Can I seriously just wipe out EVERY metro app? Hows your phone functioning?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Senorhamburgler said:
Until there is a custom recovery built, we won't have custom roms. Dont wipe out every metro app. Anything you arent sure about, look up, or just freeze the app and test results. My phone is fine except SuperSU wont work properly due to the binary being occupied, but this is the best we have so far. I debloated no problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Root is the only thing needed, not a custom recovery. Apps like Magisk Manager can flash custom images. The reason there is no ROMs built for this device, I can tell you in my opinion there is no need for a Custom ROM. Magisk Manager has plenty of customizations available as well as many other root apps. Basically, custom recoveries are obsolete, it is not needed for gaining root access nor flashing files. Magisk can do it as well as Flashfire.
I need help.... Abd is not functioning it states "the term abd is not recognised as the nane of a cmdlet, function, scrip file of operable program."
Does not exist in current location.... Windows PowerShell does not load conmands by default...
MinaSaotome said:
I need help.... Abd is not functioning it states "the term abd is not recognised as the nane of a cmdlet, function, scrip file of operable program."
Does not exist in current location.... Windows PowerShell does not load conmands by default...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey man, I would press the Windows Key+R and type" "cmd"
Then, as long as your adb is located at C:\adb type: "cd C:\adb"
Then use adb, I hate how Windows 10 forces it on users!
Hey, I am so sorry to bother you but when I enter in the fourth step of your tutorial, it tells me "flash boot" command doesn't exist. Is there something I'm doing wrong?
---------- Post added at 01:15 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:01 AM ----------
4btn said:
Hey, I am so sorry to bother you but when I enter in the fourth step of your tutorial, it tells me "flash boot" command doesn't exist. Is there something I'm doing wrong?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, after messing around with it a few, I found that once it goes off into fastboot... my computer can't recognize it anymore?
brad2192 said:
Hey guys, spent a few hours figuring out how to root. Pretty Simple!
1) Enable Developer Options, USB Debugging & OEM Unlock
2) Reboot to Fastboot Mode (Using ADB via PC type: adb reboot bootloader)
3) Add root_boot.img into your adb folder
4) In ADB type: fastboot flash boot root_boot.img
5) After flash successful, type: fastboot reboot
6) Install Magisk Manager App
For those skeptical, proof of root here.
X-210 Stock .KDZ Backup HERE (Should not be needed.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do I need to unlock the bootloader first? I have it rebooted into fastboot and it's giving me instructions to do that, but won't let me push the boot image. If I do need to unlock it, does it wipe my device?
tge101 said:
Do I need to unlock the bootloader first? I have it rebooted into fastboot and it's giving me instructions to do that, but won't let me push the boot image. If I do need to unlock it, does it wipe my device?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that is what OEM unlock means. In doing so you do need to unlock the bootloader.
brad2192 said:
Yes, that is what OEM unlock means. In doing so you do need to unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wanted to make sure but does it wipe it?
tge101 said:
Just wanted to make sure but does it wipe it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, when you use "fastboot oem unlock" it unfortunately erases all data. One of our forum members is working on a TWRP at the moment that might be available today. You could wait to do this so you can create a backup.
brad2192 said:
Yes, when you use "fastboot oem unlock" it unfortunately erases all data. One of our forum members is working on a TWRP at the moment that might be available today. You could wait to do this so you can create a backup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That'd be cool. But, wouldn't the bootloader still need to be unlocked for me to flash TWRP?
tge101 said:
That'd be cool. But, wouldn't the bootloader still need to be unlocked for me to flash TWRP?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm an idiot, yes LOL. Sorry, just got to work and I am tired you are correct. So, if you would like I suggest just using my tutorial. I believe there is ways of using LG backup to save most of your user data.
brad2192 said:
I'm an idiot, yes LOL. Sorry, just got to work and I am tired you are correct. So, if you would like I suggest just using my tutorial. I believe there is ways of using LG backup to save most of your user data.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All good, if I lose it I lose it. Is there a thread for the TWRP development?
I posted a test twrp on my blog for aristo 2
cannot open root_boot.img
hey maybe someone can help me out
previously already unlocked the bootloader on the phone so i skipped that step but i keep getting the error that it can not open root_boot.img
downloaded the file and moved into users/appdata/local/android/sdk/platform-tools
thats where adb.exe so i figured that is the adb folder maybe yes or no
could anyone help me out
greatly appreciate it
tge101 said:
All good, if I lose it I lose it. Is there a thread for the TWRP development?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Update: TWRP HERE
TJ-yesthelegend said:
hey maybe someone can help me out
previously already unlocked the bootloader on the phone so i skipped that step but i keep getting the error that it can not open root_boot.img
downloaded the file and moved into users/appdata/local/android/sdk/platform-tools
thats where adb.exe so i figured that is the adb folder maybe yes or no
could anyone help me out
greatly appreciate it
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What are you typing into ADB to get that error?
Do you have to de-encrypt the phone for root? I am thinking of getting an Aristo2, currently using the MotoE4 (which I hate!), and rooting that requires de-encryption (I love encryption!). This is the MetroPCS version your talking about? Thank you...
Note: It would be great to keep this page open while following through on your PC instead of your phone as you'll be rebooting and resetting your phone by following this procedure.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Prerequisites:
ADB (Android Debugging Bridge) tools for your OS (Windows/Linux/Mac)
Windows
Mac
Linux
Custom Recovery Image (TWRP or some other that you prefer):
(Official TWRP web hosted version) Nokia 6.1 (2018)
Download from American Mirrors
Download from EU Mirrors
USB Cable to Connect the phone to the computer
The Phone: Nokia 6.1 (2018) (preferably Fully Charged)
The device drivers (for Windows and Mac)
A good and active Internet Connection
An active Email address and client to quickly view it.
In this tutorial I'll be referring to Linux terminal, Mac Terminal & Windows Command prompt/Powershell simply as terminal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Installing adb and fastboot
Google hosts zips including only adb and fastboot. You can set these up for use with the instructions below.
On Windows
Download the (Windows.zip) from Google.
Extract it somewhere - for example, %USERPROFILE%\adb-fastboot
• On Windows 7/8:
1. From the desktop, right-click My Computer and select Properties
2. In the System Properties window, click on the Advanced tab
3. In the Advanced section, click the Environment Variables button
4. In the Environment Variables window, highlight the Path variable in the Systems Variable section and click the Edit button
5. Append ";%USERPROFILE%\adb-fastboot\platform-tools" to the end of the existing Path definition (the semi-colon separates each path entry)
• On Windows 10:
1. Open the Start menu, and type “advanced system settings”
2. Select “View advanced system settings”
3. Click on the Advanced tab
4. Open the “Environment Variables” window
5. Select the Path variable under “System Variables” and click the “Edit” button
6. Click the “Edit Text” button
7. Append ";%USERPROFILE%\adb-fastboot\platform-tools" to the end of the existing Path definition (the semi-colon separates each path entry)
• Install the device drivers linked in prerequisites (or from Nokia support site), and reboot.
On MacOS
Download the MacOS (Darwin.zip) from Google.
Extract it somewhere - for example, ~/adb-fastboot.
Add the following to ~/.bash_profile:
Code:
if [ -d "$HOME/adb-fastboot/platform-tools" ] ; then
export PATH="$HOME/adb-fastboot/platform-tools:$PATH"
fi
Log out and back in.
On Linux
Download the (Linux.zip) from Google.
Extract it somewhere - for example, ~/adb-fastboot.
Add the following to ~/.profile:
Code:
if [ -d "$HOME/adb-fastboot/platform-tools" ] ; then
export PATH="$HOME/adb-fastboot/platform-tools:$PATH"
fi
Log out and back in.
You may also need to set up udev rules: see (this repository) for more info.
Setting up adb
To use adb with your device, you’ll need to enable developer options and USB debugging:
1. Open Settings, and select “About”.
2. Tap on “Build number” seven times.
3. Go back, and select “Developer options”.
4. Scroll down, and check the “Android debugging” entry under “Debugging”.
5. Plug your device into your computer.
6. On the computer, open up a terminal/command prompt and type adb devices.
7. A dialog should show on your device, asking you to allow usb debugging. Check “always allow”, and choose “OK”.
Congratulations! adb is now ready to use with your device.
Unlocking the bootloader
Note: The steps below only need to be run once per device.
Code:
Warning: Unlocking the bootloader will erase all data on your device! Before
proceeding, ensure the data you would like to retain is backed up to your PC and/or
your Google account, or equivalent.
1. Make sure your computer has working fastboot and adb.
2. Enable USB debugging & OEM unlocking on your device under Settings->Developer Options. Incase you don't see Developer Options, then you need to unlock it by tapping Build Number 7 times in Settings->About Phone.
3. Get the current status of your bootloader:
Open a terminal on the PC and boot the device to fastboot mode by typing:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
Once the device is in fastboot mode, verify your PC finds it by typing:
Code:
fastboot devices
If you see "no permissions fastboot" or "<waiting for device>", try running
Code:
fastboot
as root/Administrator.
From the same terminal, type the following command to get the bootloader status:
Code:
fastboot oem device-info
4. Follow the instructions at (Nokia Support) to unlock your bootloader, you will need to register at this site with a working/active email to proceed. They'll verify your device using an app to issue a validation code.
Note: If your device is not supported by the Nokia Bootloader Unlock
website, you will need to use an alternative bootloader unlock method.
Installing a custom recovery using fastboot
1. Make sure your computer has working fastboot and adb.
2. Enable USB debugging & OEM unlocking on your device under Settings->Developer Options. In case you don't see Developer Options, then you need to unlock it by tapping Build Number 7 times in Settings->About Phone. This needs to be done again due to resetting of your phone.
3. Download recovery - visit twrp.me to obtain the latest version of Team Win
Recovery Project for your device. Nokia 6.1 (2018) does have an official TWRP recovery that you can find here: Nokia 6.1 (2018) [PL2] respectively.
4. Connect your device to your PC via USB.
5. Open a terminal on the PC and boot the device to fastboot mode by typing:
Code:
adb reboot bootloader
6. Once the device is in fastboot mode, verify your PC finds it by typing:
Code:
fastboot devices
If you see "no permissions fastboot" or "<waiting for device>" , try running
Code:
fastboot
as root/Administrator.
7. Boot into TWRP temporarily:
Code:
fastboot boot twrp.img
8. Use adb to push the zip onto your device:
Code:
adb push twrp.zip /
9. Go to `Install` option on the TWRP menu and browse to the zip (Scrolling to the bottom should have the zip) and install the zip. The zip will install TWRP to both boot slots. Installing TWRP at this time will remove root if you are currently rooted.
If you accidentally flash TWRP to your device using fastboot instead of temporarily booting the image, you will need to download the latest factory image for your device and reflash the boot image.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This command assumes the recovery image is present in your current working directory (Check using `DIR` on command prompt or `ls` command on terminal)
If it isn't you can change your current directory to the directory containing the recovery image or copy/move the recovery image to your current working directory.
10. Now reboot into recovery to verify the installation:
That's all folks. You may now root your phone, or even flash a custom ROM. I suggest getting openGapps for the custom ROM if you wish to use Google play services on the custom ROM.
Popular adb commands
Code:
adb shell
Launches a shell on the device accessed through the terminal on your computer.
Code:
adb push <local> <remote>
Pushes the file <local> to <remote>
Code:
adb pull <remote> [<local>]
Pulls the file <remote> to <local>. If <local> isn’t specified, it will pull to the current folder.
Code:
adb logcat
Allows you to view the device log in real-time. You can use adb logcat -b radio to view radio logs, and adb logcat -C to view logs in colour
Code:
adb install <file>
Installs the given .apk file to your device
<local> refers to location on your computer (like c:\\Users\%USERPROFILE%\adb-fastboot on windows or ~/adb-fastboot on unix based OS), while <remote> refers to location on your android device (like "/sdcard/", without quotes)
Reserved
What do you do if oem unlocking in developer is greyed out? TA-1045
@toxicmender The official bootloader unlock was only released to the Nokia 8. So, what is the point posting it here?
Or have they silently added the 6.1?
singhnsk said:
@toxicmender The official bootloader unlock was only released to the Nokia 8. So, what is the point posting it here?
Or have they silently added the 6.1?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately no, they haven't, removed the [incomplete] tag prematurely after reading it somewhere.
Currently only known way to unlock Nokia 6.1 seems to be to flash signature file.bin from these guys for fee.
at Step 4:
Code:
fastboot flash signature signature_file.bin
Also it has follow up instructions for flashing TWRP for anyone who has successfully unlocked their bootloader, since flashing TWRP is a bit different from most other phones
toxicmender said:
Unfortunately no, they haven't, removed the [incomplete] tag prematurely after reading it somewhere.
Currently only known way to unlock Nokia 6.1 seems to be to flash signature file.bin from these guys for fee.
at Step 4:
Code:
fastboot flash signature signature_file.bin
Also it has follow up instructions for flashing TWRP for anyone who has successfully unlocked their bootloader, since flashing TWRP is a bit different from most other phones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why would you make start this thread then? It is completely pointless and misleading.
It is like making a post saying that there are flying cars and marking it [Incomplete]. It is just ****ing stupid.
I hope you drop your 6.1 and break it so you make **** posts in other phone forums instead of this one.
cmaxwe said:
.
I hope you drop your 6.1 and break it so you make **** posts in other phone forums instead of this one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey now, there is really no need for that level of hostility. He knew they were doing unlocks for at least one Nokia phone, and me may not have known that they didn't have it for the 6.1.
Please don't talk to peope like that if they make a simple mistake when trying to provide info and help out the community. We're all human.
toxicmender said:
Unfortunately no, they haven't, removed the [incomplete] tag prematurely after reading it somewhere.
Currently only known way to unlock Nokia 6.1 seems to be to flash signature file.bin from these guys for fee.
at Step 4:
Code:
fastboot flash signature signature_file.bin
Also it has follow up instructions for flashing TWRP for anyone who has successfully unlocked their bootloader, since flashing TWRP is a bit different from most other phones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly if there was a good amount of roms available for this phone I would gladly pay the $5 to unlock bootloader, although that method leaves me with questions. does that method survive ota? Does it actually work? Can it relock and unlock without paying again?
Is there really not that many people on here willing to try unlocking and flashing the many gsi roms available?
cmaxwe said:
Unfortunately no, they haven't, removed the [incomplete] tag prematurely after reading it somewhere.
Currently only known way to unlock Nokia 6.1 seems to be to flash signature file.bin from these guys for fee.
at Step 4:
Why would you make start this thread then? It is completely pointless and misleading.
It is like making a post saying that there are flying cars and marking it [Incomplete]. It is just ****ing stupid.
I hope you drop your 6.1 and break it so you make **** posts in other phone forums instead of this one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not like there isn't a way, there is, just not a transparent method. Somehow those (refer to link in reply) are able to generate and send the signature file allowing you to unlock the phone, how it works or if your bootloader be locked again after updating is unknown to me ATM
mymeatb18 said:
Unfortunately no, they haven't, removed the [incomplete] tag prematurely after reading it somewhere.
Currently only known way to unlock Nokia 6.1 seems to be to flash signature file.bin from these guys for fee.
at Step 4:
Honestly if there was a good amount of roms available for this phone I would gladly pay the $5 to unlock bootloader, although that method leaves me with questions. does that method survive ota? Does it actually work? Can it relock and unlock without paying again?
Is there really not that many people on here willing to try unlocking and flashing the many gsi roms available?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well the ROM development begins after an Official TWRP recovery, so the chances are there might be some. I'm not clear on the the OTA being able to relock the bootloader either since I was running Pie update when I got to know about it.
thread closed as per OP request
The One-for-All Guide to rooting, improving, and fixing various errors in Xiaomi Redmi Go!Hello everyone! This thread that I made is for all people who wants to modify and gain full access, as well as to repair their Xiaomi Redmi Go devices the well-guided way, I've noticed that nobody has made an all-in-one guide for this phone so I decided to do it, this thread will keep on expanding depending on what I will discover about this phone, but for now, here is the thread, i expect that you have at least a little amount of knowledge when it comes to phones such as ADB and Developer Options.
What can we do with Xiaomi Redmi Go:
1. We can root it, and the best root manager for this phone is Magisk, SuperSU is also good, but if you're planning to use your phone for mobile banking, then Magisk is right for you. (Unfortunately this isn't true right now due to ctsProfile being hard to manipulate, Redmi Go supports hardware backed key attestation which means your device will definitely be not certified no matter what you do, so until we get a new method, don't root your phone if you want to use apps like Google Pay
2. TWRP is the current custom recovery available for this phone, it has flaws, but its currently the best out there, so its worth the shot to install it, the thread for it will guide you.
3. No custom kernels, people said that they have managed to install AOSP 9 and GSI on this device and made it boot up, but for me, it's better to wait for the official ROM update, after all, the device is still supported.
Prerequisites:
1. Xiaomi Redmi Go
2. An internet connection, a strong one is recommended if you want to download a ROM.
3. A computer with SDK Platform Tools ready to use, this is required, the link is here: https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
Don't forget to also get its driver! The link is also here: https://developer.android.com/studio/run/win-usb
The drivers are tricky to install but I will guide you on doing it in the easiest way possible, please continue on the thread.
4. SD card, your user data will be erased later, better back your files up, this is a warning.
5. Turning on "OEM unlocking" and USB Debugging in Developer Options, this is also really important!
Table of contents:
1. Unlocking the bootloader (and setting up ADB)
2. Rooting
3. Applying the custom recovery
4. Additional modifications
5. Stock ROM links
6. Bonus Section
WARNING: I am not responsible for anything that happens to your device as you follow my guide, do not blame me if you turned your device into a paperweight, made it explode, made it fly or whatever it may be, you chose to modify this phone and you should be accountable for it, you must know the consequences of what you're doing, try to point your finger at me because of what YOU did and I will laugh at you.
I am ready to assist though, so please feel free to ask some questions!
Let us begin, this will take several minutes, so please be patient and avoid rushing.
1. Unlocking the bootloader.
NOTE: This requires your computer to have SDK Platform Tools extracted to any location as long as its easy to access, and its really complicated to talk about it here, this step doesn't include the method where you request a code from Xiaomi, but I've provided a link for it.
A. First, get your phone up, and open the folder on where the SDK Platform Tools are placed, make sure that your in the directory where you see the .exe files of the SDK, now, hold Shift on the keyboard and click "Open Command Prompt here" and type "adb reboot bootloader", without quotes don't forget! This applies to all the steps that I will provide, don't forget to change the USB connection mode of your phone to PTP for it to be detected by ADB! (Only applies to Windows 8/8.1) Once your phone is asking for an authorization, check "Always allow this computer" then tap allow.
B. Once your device has been booted up into Fastboot or the bootloader, check first if your device is being detected, type "fastboot devices", if yes then proceed, if no, then stop here for now.
1B. If this happens then you may have to check your drivers and see if its installed correctly, once your device can be seen at "adb devices" it should also been seen in "fastboot devices" and when the phone is in adb sideload, if not then you have to reinstall ADB, get the proper drivers and do it again.
C. Now, type "fastboot oem unlock-go", the terminal will warn you that all of your user data will be removed, if you have them backed up then and go ahead and enter the command, if not, then just type "fastboot reboot" and start backing up your files, then do this again.
D. The phone will boot up and say "Erasing", to confirm that your phone has its bootloader unlocked, once it boots up again see if it says "Unlocked" on the bottom part of your screen, if there is then congratulations, it should be unlocked at this point.
1D. https://www.getdroidtips.com/unlock-bootloader-xiaomi-redmi-go/, this one particular link provides you on how to unlock the bootloader by entering a certain code, I believe this is a safer method but requires a bit of time, go here if you're interested.
NOTE: The phone supports the command "fastboot flashing unlock_critical" if you are going to unlock your phone with the normal command (fastboot oem unlock_go/fastboot flashing unlock), consider using this 2nd command too, what it does is that it allows you to also flash partitions you supposedly don't have access to, just be very careful not to flash any wrong file! It will be useful to make the "flash_all.bat" script work that you can find on the fastboot ROM for this device, more below!
Once your bootloader has been unlocked, you can now proceed to the other steps that I provided here, don't forget to enable USB Debugging on your Developer Options.
1.2 Setting up ADB
1. Grab your phone, unlock and open your Developer Options then enable "USB Debugging", then change your connection type to "PTP" if you are using Windows 8/8.1, I am not sure if this is required on 7, but it is not needed on Windows 10.
2. Go to this link: https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools and download the .zip file, then extract it to a location that is easy to access, like your desktop.
3. Get the official Google drivers here: https://developer.android.com/studio/run/win-usb download the .zip file as well, and extract it too.
4. Go to the extracted folder of your SDK Platform Tools, and go to the directory where you can see various .exe files such as "adb.exe", now, hold the Shift key then click the Right mouse button, then click "Open command prompt here" If this doesn't work for you, open up CMD with admin rights, then type in cd *the location of your platform tools* say on mine, I will input cd C:\Users\James\Downloads\platform-tools_r31.0.3-windows\platform-tools then enter
5. Open your Device Manager by pressing Windows + R, put "devmgmt.msc" without any quotes then Enter, do not close the Device Manager until you're done with all the steps! And please be fast here too or else ADB will not work, now go to your extracted folder of the Google USB driver, and look for the file "android_winusb.inf", copy the location path of it as you will need the exact location path of the file later, in my case it was "C:\Users\Symphony\Desktop\latest_usb_driver_windows\usb_driver\android_winusb.inf".
4A. There are 3 main ADB devices that you have to install, Android ADB Interface, Android Bootloader Interface and Android Composite ADB Interface, so I will divide this into 3 sections, have your Device Manager, and the exact location of the .inf.
NOTE: Turn off the internet connection of your computer, why? Because, if you let Windows install the drivers for you, the drivers may be incorrect and will break things apart, as we will encounter several "Unknown devices" in the Device Manager and we have to update them with the extracted files from Google.
Android ADB Interface
1. Now, make sure that USB Debugging is enabled, now plug in your phone and let the drivers install WHILE your computer is offline, now go to your Device Manager after the driver installation and you should see that there is a driver named "Android" with an exclamation mark.
2. Select the "Android" driver with an exclamation mark, then click "Update device driver", click "Browse my computer for driver software" then click "Let me pick from the list of devices on my computer", click Next, then click "Have Disk", now, remember the location path you copied earlier? Now paste that path (like C:\Users\Symphony\Desktop\latest_usb_driver_windows\usb_driver\) to the white bar under "Copy manufacturers files from:", overwrite the A:\ with your copied path then Browse, select the "android_winusb.inf" and click OK, now, select the "Android ADB Interface", once the driver has been installed and the interface doesn't give errors such as "The device cannot start", then you're good to go.
NOTE: If you plug your phone and there is no "Android" device with exclamation mark, you can proceed to try and see if adb detects your device by typing "adb devices" in the command right now, it should be since this is what I experienced when setting up my device in Windows 10, this step usually applies only if you are using Windows 8/8.1
Android Bootloader Interface
1. To test, go to the command prompt you opened earlier, and type "adb devices", the device should now be detected at this point, when it does, type "adb reboot bootloader".
2. Now, make sure USB Debugging is enabled on the device before booting it into bootloader, now plug in your phone again and let the drivers install WHILE your computer is offline, Go to your Device Manager after the driver installation and you should see that there is a driver named "Android" with an exclamation mark.
3. Select the "Android" driver with an exclamation mark, then click "Update device driver", click "Browse my computer for driver software" then click "Let me pick from the list of devices on my computer", click Next, then click "Have Disk", now, remember the location path you copied earlier? Now paste that path (like C:\Users\Symphony\Desktop\latest_usb_driver_windows\usb_driver\) to the white bar under "Copy manufacturers files from:", overwrite the A:\ with your copied path then Browse, select the "android_winusb.inf" and click OK, now, select the "Android Bootloader Interface", once the driver has been installed and the interface doesn't give errors such as "The device cannot start", then you're good to go.
Android Composite ADB Interface
1. Before proceeding, type "fastboot devices", the device should now also be detected on fastboot, now, type "fastboot reboot", and afterwards, enable "USB Debugging" on the Developer Options, then go your command prompt, then type "adb reboot recovery".
2. Now, now plug in your phone again and let the drivers install WHILE your computer is offline, now go to your Device Manager after the driver installation and you should see that there is a driver named "Android" with an exclamation mark.
3. Select the "Android" driver with an exclamation mark, then click "Update device driver", click "Browse my computer for driver software" then click "Let me pick from the list of devices on my computer", click Next, then click "Have Disk", now, remember the location path you copied earlier? Now paste that path (like C:\Users\Symphony\Desktop\latest_usb_driver_windows\usb_driver\) to the white bar under "Copy manufacturers files from:", overwrite the A:\ with your copied path then Browse, select the "android_winusb.inf" and click OK, now, select the "Android Composite ADB Interface", once the driver has been installed and the interface doesn't give errors such as "The device cannot start", then you're good to go.
2. Applying the recovery/custom recovery
A. Open up your phone and ensure that USB Debugging has been enabled, now, open up your command prompt just like in Step 1 in Unlocking the Bootloader and type "adb reboot bootloader"
B. Next up, type "fastboot flash recovery path/to/recovery.img", substitute the path/to/ with the actual location of your recovery, and please make sure that the name of the image is "recovery.img"! Or else it will not overwrite/update the recovery, you can also put your recovery.img directly within the platform-tools folder so that all you have to type is "fastboot flash recovery recovery.img" then press enter.
C. Once your done, reboot the phone and press Volume Up + Power at the same time, and the recovery will start. (You may want to do this else the recovery will be automatically removed and replaced with the stock one)
1C. For the stock recovery, once you press the combination, the phone will say "No command", at this point, hold your Power button and press Volume up one time to get into recovery.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/recovery-twrp-3-3-0-redmi-t3929282 here is the link of the TWRP recovery, I encourage you to follow the steps mentioned in the post properly.
WARNING: The fix I provided below is now pushed here for 1 certain reason, before you try to root your phone and do everything else, you must decrypt your internal storage first and it is quite easy, first you must get the decrypt.zip linked in this thread (if the .zip cannot be found, I still have a copy of it), go to TWRP and do "format data", not Wipe Data! How so? Once you reboot to TWRP, it will show you the "Wipe" button, tap that, then the "Format Data" button should show up, this will require you to type in "yes" so type it in, then once it is done formatting, go back to the main TWRP screen, tap "Reboot", then "Reboot to Recovery", afterwards you must go to "Install" then proceed to install the "decrypt.zip", after that you can now flash .zip files from your internal storage too, but beware that you must do this every time you update your device!
3. Rooting your phone
A. To get started, install TWRP for your phone first.
B. Get the .zip file of Magisk/SuperSU so you can install them, the links are https://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/magisk/official-magisk-v7-universal-systemless-t3473445 and https://forum.xda-developers.com/apps/supersu/stable-2016-09-01supersu-v2-78-release-t3452703
C. Reboot your phone to recovery or just plug it in, open the command prompt again just like in the previous step and put "adb reboot recovery" without quotes.
D. Tap "Install" on your TWRP recovery and select the respective installation .zip file of your chosen root management app, and wait for it to finish.
1D. The .zip for both SuperSU and Magisk can be installed through "adb sideload", if incase you don't have an SD card! It may also work with fastboot as well but I need someone to confirm this.
E. When it's done, wipe the cache first, then reboot.
1E. If the root management app didn't appear in your phone after boot, just install the APK of it in the Play Store and check if root has been applied, if not, repeat step C and D again.
BONUS: It may be useful also to grab EdXposed or LSposed for Magisk and the link is here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...or-of-xposed-oreo-pie-q-r-2020-07-19.4070199/ and here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/...e-magisk-module-edxposed-alternative.4228973/, please choose only one! You will use the normal Xposed if you're using a different root management app such as SuperSU, the link is here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=3034811
What this does is that if the app is an Xposed/EdXposed/LSposed framework module, any modifications it does to your phone will be based on memory only, it won't modify your phone directly which means your device will be clean, and if it incase the said modification bricks your phone, you can easily recover from it too!
BONUS 2: I also recommend getting the Busybox module from Magisk itself, it can easily be downloaded from the Magisk app, you will need this module if you want your root applications to work more efficiently and avoid errors, as most of them requires Busybox to work, don't use the Busybox installer apps on Play Store as they modify /system directly, only use it if you are using SuperSU.
4. Additional modifications
Once you've managed to root your phone and everything else, what I recommend you could do with your device is to get the following apps:
Titanium Backup - It has the ability to back up apps on your phone, and even its data! this app could do so much more than with what I just mentioned.
LSpeed - A root boosting app that has almost every root tweak packed into it, its really convenient to use! I do not recommend using Entropy tweaks as I heard it is a placebo.
Greenify - For me, this is the only legit battery saving app aside from LSpeed which also offers tons of battery saving features, it requires Xposed to have more options you have to buy it to gain full functionality
ROM Toolbox - This app pretty much contains everything a rooted user needs, such as a terminal and root-based file manager.
System app uninstaller (optional) - Just in case if you're planning to remove some bloatware (the list of it is below)
Root Browser - An alternative to ROM Toolbox, this root explorer is really popular and gets the job done without any interruptions.
Terminal emulator - This will allow you to enter various commands on your phone, like being able to reboot the phone without using any keys.
In order to make the phone as fluid as possible, just leave it with stock ROM installed, try to also use lite apps like Facebook Lite to reduce RAM and battery consumption.
Kernel Adiutor - Another great root application, it's like LSpeed but it doesn't automate tweaks, it instead allows you to modify most of it on your own, then it reapplies your tweaks every time your cellphone will boot up if you tap the "Apply on startup" switch. the link for the app is here: https://m.apkpure.com/kernel-adiutor-root/com.grarak.kerneladiutor
NOTE: Most of these apps can be found on the Play Store, and please don't install any more similar root boosting apps such as HEBF, scripts such as V6 Supercharger, or modifying files like build.prop, it is due to the fact that this will conflict with LSpeed, as LSpeed contains most of the tweaks that past scripts and apps provide, this will result in your phone slowing down a lot, Greenify will require Xposed Framework which is mentioned above on the Rooting section, the link to LSpeed is here https://github.com/Paget96/LSpeed, because the app has been removed from Play Store.
WARNING: The perf.zip https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/-t3935220 here, that was provided in Xiaomi Redmi Go forum section must be applied with extreme caution, you have to make a backup of your build.prop in /system, and build.prop + default.prop in /vendor for easy recovery, you can use ZipMe to easily make a backup for these files.
5. Stock ROM links
https://xiaomirom.com/en/rom/redmi-go-tiare-global-fastboot-recovery-rom/, this link so far provides all the ROMs (both recovery and fastboot) available for download on this phone, and they are actually light enough, so it will be easy to download them.
https://xiaomifirmwareupdater.com/archive/miui/tiare/ a new link I've found recently, this rom contains the .tgz format of the latest ROM for the Xiaomi Redmi Go, which could be used for fastboot and Mi Flash Tool, just search for the model and go for Global.
NOTE: Most of the ROMs for this phone provided on several sites, even on the actual Xiaomi website, has an invalid format of .zip, and doesn't contain a flashall script, as a result, Mi Flash Tool will never be able to use these ROMs, you could not also use adb sideload and fastboot for these ROMs, only the stock recovery of the phone could install the ROM, due to the links provided above finally giving the latest ROM versions for the phone, extracting the stock recovery is very easy now, you can do it yourself but if you need a link, tell me.
5A. Applying the stock ROM
This section will be divided into 2 sections, flashing the ROM through recovery, flashing the ROM through fastboot manually, or automatically with flash_all.bat
Stock recovery method.
A. Download the stock ROM with .zip format and put it into your SD Card.
B. Flash your recovery back to stock with the steps given above, boot into your stock recovery, then using your Power button and volume keys to navigate, select "Apply update from SD card".
C. Select the .zip file and wait for the update to finish.
D. The device will boot up automatically after, if not, just go back to the main menu of the recovery and select "Reboot system", enjoy!
Fastboot manual flashing method.
A. Ensure that you have prepared your device and computer for ADB, now grab the ROM given in this thread in .tgz format, and keep extracting the file until you see the files such as "flash-all.sh" after extraction, as you need to extract the .tgz ROM two times before you could use it properly.
B. Now go to the extracted folder of the stock ROM, go the "images" folder and copy the following image files: boot.img, system.img, recovery.img (make a backup of this file somewhere!), vendor.img, cache.img, userdata.img, persist.img, and splash.img.
C. Paste them to the extracted folder of your SDK Platform Tools where various .exe files are located such as "adb.exe", or in my case the location is "C:\Users\Symphony\Downloads\platform-tools_r29.0.4-windows\platform-tools".
D. Now open your command prompt on this directory, or Shift + Right click, then plug in your phone, now type "adb reboot bootloader" so your phone will go to bootloader, don't forget to enable "USB Debugging" and PTP connection mode before rebooting! (only applies to Windows 8/8.1, it may vary on Windows 7 but it is different on 10, no need for PTP connection mode, you can just turn on USB debugging and that's all)
E. Now, this is a little tricky, but try to follow me as much as you can, make sure first that you are detected with "fastboot devices", input the following commands that I will give so you can flash the ROM to your phone, now go to the command prompt and:
To flash the boot.img to your phone, put the command: "fastboot flash boot boot.img"
For the recovery, the command is: "fastboot flash recovery recovery.img"
For the system or main OS: "fastboot flash system system.img"
For cache: "fastboot flash cache cache.img"
For persist: "fastboot flash persist persist.img"
For the vendor or additional system files: "fastboot flash vendor vendor.img"
For data or apps: "fastboot flash userdata userdata.img"
For splash or probably boot animation: "fastboot flash splash splash.img"
D. After that, type "fastboot reboot", and enjoy!
Fastboot automatic flashing method (NEW!)
A. Extract the fastboot ROM 2 times as instructed, after getting the files, grab all the files and copy it to the directory of your platform tools where files such as "adb.exe" can be found, just copy all the files in there and that's all you have to do.
B. Open the "flash_all.bat" on Notepad and remove the following lines:
fastboot %* getvar product 2>&1 | findstr /r /c:"^product: *tiare" || echo Missmatching image and device
fastboot %* getvar product 2>&1 | findstr /r /c:"^product: *tiare" || exit /B 1
Afterwards, save the .bat file, that should be ready to use now
C. As instructed above, you must also do "fastboot flashing unlock_critical" after unlocking your bootloader the normal way, this will act as your 2nd unlock command, without this, the flash_all.bat will not work as it should be.
D. Boot up your phone in fastboot mode, open up your adb devices and make sure that your phone is seen in "fastboot devices", once it does, type in "flash_all.bat" without any quotes and execute it, the command will now automatically flash everything without you doing anything else, it will also automatically reboot after doing so.
Bonus section:
1. TWRP-compatible stock ROM
For this part, in order for you to generate a TWRP-flashable stock ROM is by basically making it yourself, you have to make sure that your patch is latest, and its pretty much a good idea to just tick everything in the backup selection except for the recovery, as well as the cache as you don't need those.
Once you have it, go ahead and keep it somewhere safe but easy to find, so if case that you need to use it, you could get it immediately, this is extremely useful so please just do it, as of now, I've confirmed that only the /data backup was usable, but please try to confirm if other partition backups are working for you.
Certain custom ROMs that can boot up in this device could be flashed through TWRP though, and the links of them are provided here in this thread.
2. GSI, AOSP 9 and custom ROMs
The link for AOSP is provided here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/redmi-aosp-9-t3922192
The link for GSI is right here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/tested-gsi-redmi-t3924705
These images/ROMs can be applied with TWRP, just make sure to follow the steps mentioned in these posts to avoid inconvenience, don't forget to take precautions too! I haven't tried them, but so far I believe that these are stable to use.
There are also custom ROMs released for the device but I am lazy to link all of them, they can easily be found by going here: https://forum.xda-developers.com/tags/xiaomi-redmi-go/
Please take note that I haven't tested these custom ROMs yet and I most likely never will, since the stock ROM for the device is already good enough, you can comment here and tell me what custom ROMs are stable so I can link them here for future reference.
3. Current status
My phone is still working, yes! and it's still staying strong, updated to 2.25 using the fastboot method and it is still fast, the only issue currently is that SafetyNet is a lot more secure than before, so it will be impossible to use stuff like Google Pay for now.
I usually decided to lay low and just stay with my LSpeed, Kernel Adiutor and Greenify, all I had to do is to tinker with these apps and my phone just reached into a whole new level! The performance improvement is nice, that I didn't need to use a custom ROM anymore.
4. How to install a OTA update after rooting your device
Due to the changes made by Google on SafetyNet, and the fact that this device will always require you to wipe the device every update, it is pretty much the same, it doesn't matter anymore if you are certified or not, you will still receive an OTA update even if your device is not certified as long as you are using the stock ROM, you only won't be able to install it, and if you want to install the OTA update you must install it by flashing the updated fastboot ROM, I have links for it above, you can try installing the OTA updates yourself through the settings but you will still have to do a factory reset anyway, you have to also unroot also and revert to stock recovery, else the installation will fail, and your device may slower afterwards.
5. Bloatware you can safely remove (NEW!)
So, like I said above, as much as how lightweight the device is, there are still bloatware that you can remove if you really want, but it's only 3 of them:
Mi Video
Mint Browser
Mi Music
The rest such as Mi Share and Mint Launcher are also bloatware, you can remove them but to me they are useful so I didn't, do not remove the "Cleaner" app, if it however says something like "com.CleanMaster", you can try removing it but take caution as your Play Store may be removed along with it too.
Credits to everyone who made the apps/tools that I mentioned here! such as @topjohnwu for the Magisk, and @YasiR Siddiqui for the TWRP, @Paget96 for the awesome LSpeed app, @rovo89 for the Xposed Framework and many more, you guys totally rock!
Hello and thank you for this tutorial. I'd like to ask. Do You know a way where I can unlock the bootloader without permissions or oem unlock? I have a soft-bricked device and for me, there is no way I can get into the OS and manually switch the Oem unlock setting. I've tried different softwares, different adb commands, different region firmwares, still no luck. I can't also get into the the download mode. I mean, yeah, I get the "no command" screen but after pressing power button + up volume button my phone restarts into the fastboot mode and there is no way I can normally boot. It's looping to fastboot mode over and over...
TheAngryGuitarist said:
Hello and thank you for this tutorial. I'd like to ask. Do You know a way where I can unlock the bootloader without permissions or oem unlock? I have a soft-bricked device and for me, there is no way I can get into the OS and manually switch the Oem unlock setting. I've tried different softwares, different adb commands, different region firmwares, still no luck. I can't also get into the the download mode. I mean, yeah, I get the "no command" screen but after pressing power button + up volume button my phone restarts into the fastboot mode and there is no way I can normally boot. It's looping to fastboot mode over and over...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please elaborate all of what you've done so far? I will also ask you a few questions.
1. Is your phone usable with the platform tools? I mean with adb and such.
2. Did you try going into recovery and flashing stock ROM through there?
3. Is your phone being detected by "fastboot devices"? The fastboot mode of Redmi Go is its download mode, and i've provided the link for the stock ROM that's usable thru fastboot mode, as well as on how to apply it.
My phone is usable with adb and such, the recovery mode was not working, only the fastboot. I've tried flashing stock rom with the flash tool but I had no success with a bricked soft and a locked bootloader. I've finally fixed it by going into the edl mode by test point method then I flashed the stock rom, and I've fixed my problem this way. I couldn't unlock the bootloader manually from adb or the unlocker tool, but I've did it in the edl way.
TheAngryGuitarist said:
Hello and thank you for this tutorial. I'd like to ask. Do You know a way where I can unlock the bootloader without permissions or oem unlock? I have a soft-bricked device and for me, there is no way I can get into the OS and manually switch the Oem unlock setting. I've tried different softwares, different adb commands, different region firmwares, still no luck. I can't also get into the the download mode. I mean, yeah, I get the "no command" screen but after pressing power button + up volume button my phone restarts into the fastboot mode and there is no way I can normally boot. It's looping to fastboot mode over and over...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
TheAngryGuitarist said:
My phone is usable with adb and such, the recovery mode was not working, only the fastboot. I've tried flashing stock rom with the flash tool but I had no success with a bricked soft and a locked bootloader. I've finally fixed it by going into the edl mode by test point method then I flashed the stock rom, and I've fixed my problem this way. I couldn't unlock the bootloader manually from adb or the unlocker tool, but I've did it in the edl way.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you please elaborate the term "edl mode"?
Good job then, usually, before you modify the phone and start doing something crazy out of stock, your number one step is to really unlock the bootloader, and in order to make things more easier, you should allow your OEM to be unlocked through the developer options, after that you can now unlock the bootloader with fastboot.
_XblackshadowX_ said:
Can you please elaborate the term "edl mode"?
Good job then, usually, before you modify the phone and start doing something crazy out of stock, your number one step is to really unlock the bootloader, and in order to make things more easier, you should allow your OEM to be unlocked through the developer options, after that you can now unlock the bootloader with fastboot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, it's the emergency download mode. You use it when there is nothing you can do about the soft of your device. It automatically unlock the bootloader and you can flash the stock rom. Well, my problem was another. I did not tried to flash roms or recoveries with a locked bl. My phone automatically rebooted into the fastboot mode and from there I was not able to start my phone normally. I've tried rebooting fastboot from adb, unlock bl from adb, no success. I had to dissamembly the phone and make a short-circuit to the test points while slowly pushing in the mtp cable with the battery disconnected. Once I saw the Qualcomm driver on device manager I was able to flash the stock rom. You can search if you want to, for the test pins of this device. Btw, thank for your advice, you are really helpful to the community! ?
TheAngryGuitarist said:
Yes, it's the emergency download mode. You use it when there is nothing you can do about the soft of your device. It automatically unlock the bootloader and you can flash the stock rom. Well, my problem was another. I did not tried to flash roms or recoveries with a locked bl. My phone automatically rebooted into the fastboot mode and from there I was not able to start my phone normally. I've tried rebooting fastboot from adb, unlock bl from adb, no success. I had to dissamembly the phone and make a short-circuit to the test points while slowly pushing in the mtp cable with the battery disconnected. Once I saw the Qualcomm driver on device manager I was able to flash the stock rom. You can search if you want to, for the test pins of this device. Btw, thank for your advice, you are really helpful to the community!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Woah, you really had to open the phone before doing it, that's an interesting method!
That part where your phone booted into fastboot was kind of scary, any ideas why it booted into fastboot in the first place? It has to be reported if incase, seems like a dangerous bug.
_XblackshadowX_ said:
Woah, you really had to open the phone before doing it, that's an interesting method!
That part where your phone booted into fastboot was kind of scary, any ideas why it booted into fastboot in the first place? It has to be reported if incase, seems like a dangerous bug.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not really sure if a malware caused this issue or a failed system update over-night.
TheAngryGuitarist said:
I'm not really sure if a malware caused this issue or a failed system update over-night.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I usually had failed system updates numerous times because when i install them, the phone has already been modified by a lot, and that's actually riskier.
That's why i recommend unrooting and putting back the stock recovery before updating first, still works on mine even with "Device is not certified" by Play Store.
The TWRP linked here is for Pie 9, I couldn't get it to boot on my phone, it shows vertical lines.
This is the older version for Oreo 8...
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/twrp-xiaomi-redmi-beta-t3918993
I formatted the phone from TWRP it so it was no longer encrypted.
Mounted the drive from TWRP and installed the "decrypt.zip" from the other TWRP...
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/recovery-twrp-3-3-0-redmi-t3929282
I unlocked the bootloader successfully.
In the setting up ADB step, I don't clearly understand. When I connect my device to the pc, no drivers are installing. And there is no driver named "Android" with an exclamation mark. But my device is getting recognized in "portable devices >> redmi go". I'm very new with adb it would be a lot of help.
I've attached the screenshot of my device manager,
bhattinb said:
I unlocked the bootloader successfully.
In the setting up ADB step, I don't clearly understand. When I connect my device to the pc, no drivers are installing. And there is no driver named "Android" with an exclamation mark. But my device is getting recognized in "portable devices >> redmi go". I'm very new with adb it would be a lot of help.
I've attached the screenshot of my device manager,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you try turning on USB Debugging on Developer Options? Did you try installing the USB drivers from Google?
_XblackshadowX_ said:
Did you try turning on USB Debugging on Developer Options? Did you try installing the USB drivers from Google?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I've done everything you told, I also turned the connection mode to PTP also. Somehow it just not showing that android with an exclamation mark.
after that, I even tried to use the 15-second ADB installer. after installing that I tried to flash recovery but that just didn't do anything. After using that flashing command, I had the same stock recovery.
I'm really thankful you took the time to answer my question.
Help!! My device stuck on screen saying your system has been destroyed. What I had done is locked the bootloader using command fastboot oem lock then this happened. Now i can boot device in stock recovery and bootloader too but when i am trying to unlock bootloader it says device is lock and also i am not able to flash anything. Plz help.
I am not able to flash TWRP on my redmi go
How to update the redmi go to the latest version without formatting/Factory Reset should I just follow Fastboot flashing method and if so which files should I just flash. Thank you
bhattinb said:
I unlocked the bootloader successfully.
In the setting up ADB step, I don't clearly understand. When I connect my device to the pc, no drivers are installing. And there is no driver named "Android" with an exclamation mark. But my device is getting recognized in "portable devices >> redmi go". I'm very new with adb it would be a lot of help.
I've attached the screenshot of my device manager,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi! sorry for the late reply, if this is the case then it's fine, you can just connect the device, open up adb tools, type adb devices and ensure that your USB debugging is on, and the device will connect immediately, at that point all you need is the adb driver for Fastboot
akki_007 said:
Help!! My device stuck on screen saying your system has been destroyed. What I had done is locked the bootloader using command fastboot oem lock then this happened. Now i can boot device in stock recovery and bootloader too but when i am trying to unlock bootloader it says device is lock and also i am not able to flash anything. Plz help.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh no, but why lock your bootloader? you can try using a recovery ROM, you must have a spare SD Card within you, grab a recovery ROM, put it in your sd card then put it into the phone and use it on stock recovery, you should be able to apply it and boot back into the system, please update me
igpraan said:
I am not able to flash TWRP on my redmi go
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you must have unlocked bootloader if you want to do so.
niknah said:
The TWRP linked here is for Pie 9, I couldn't get it to boot on my phone, it shows vertical lines.
This is the older version for Oreo 8...
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/general/twrp-xiaomi-redmi-beta-t3918993
I formatted the phone from TWRP it so it was no longer encrypted.
Mounted the drive from TWRP and installed the "decrypt.zip" from the other TWRP...
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/recovery-twrp-3-3-0-redmi-t3929282
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's strange, the TWRP I linked isn't giving me any vertical lines
Hello,
I'm posting this guide for those (like me) who can't do without TWRP on their device.
I'm providing only a step-by-step explanation. Credits to @nikamura for his kernel and TWRP: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/twrp-3-4-0-0-for-sunfish-testing.4179101/
Credits to @Zackptg5 for his guide, from which I've started: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/guide-unlock-root-safetynet-for-pixel-4a.4153773/
Credits to @topjohnwu for Magisk: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk
DISCLAIMER: I don't take any responsibility if your phone explodes or anything... The guide is provided as is.
FIRST STEP: UNLOCKING THE BOOTLOADER
Download USB drivers for your phone here: https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=8889791610682922010
Download SDK Platform-Tools for Windows here: https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
Extract the SDK Platform-Tools to a directory of your choice.
Open your command prompt, change directory to where you extracted the Platform-Tools and type "fastboot". Depending on your Windows setup (I'm a linux guy, so I've used an ancient win8.1 installation in a VM...) you might receive a message of a missing dll (api-ms-win-crt-convert-l1-1-0.dll): if so, download and install the Universal C Runtime from https://support.microsoft.com/en-us...-windows-c0514201-7fe6-95a3-b0a5-287930f3560c
If you try the "fastboot" command once more, it should now work.
On your phone go to system settings -> About phone -> tap on 'Build number' several times until Developer Options is enabled.
Back out into settings and go to System -> Advanced -> Developer Options -> Enable 'OEM Unlocking'.
Switch off the phone.
Boot into fastboot by holding Vol Down + Power.
Plug the phone into a usb port of your pc.
In your command prompt type "fastboot devices". If there is no output, it means you have to install the USB driver. So, open "Device Manager" on your pc, right click on your Pixel 4A (should be on top of the list with a yellow exlamation mark) and update the driver choosing the USB drivers you previously downloaded. In Device Manger you should now read "Android Bootloader Interface", with no exlamation mark.
Now back to the command prompt, "fastboot devices" should now output a string with "fastboot" written next to it.
Now type 'fastboot flashing unlock' -> Follow prompt on the device to unlock the bootloader (note that this will FACTORY RESET the device).
The bootloader is now unlocked! You can now safely reboot (or it reboots on its own, I don't actually remember).
Note that after you unlock the bootloader you will see a reminder for a few seconds every time you reboot, reminding you that the phone is unlocked. That's normal and we have to live with that, as far as I know.
SECOND STEP: USING THE FACTORY IMAGE TO DOWNGRADE TO ANDROID 10
At present, TWRP is not available for Android 11. So we have to downgrade.
Download A10 factory image (version qd4a.200805.003) here: https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/sunfish-qd4a.200805.003-factory-fac7c08d.zip
If you are paranoid like me, check the SHA-256 checksum of the download with some freeware hashing tool. The SHA-256 checksum should be: fac7c08d3d4cb92078fbcdbcc7e80fc4c438612a1a004d3d12814f51928458f3
Extract the files contained in the downloaded archive into the folder where your fastboot.exe is. To be clear, flash-all.bat should be in the same folder as fastboot.exe.
Place your phone in fastboot mode (Vol Down + Power).
Connect your phone to your PC.
In your command prompt type "fastboot devices" to make sure there is proper connection.
Double click "flash-all.bat".
The phone is going to reboot a few times. Just wait patiently until you read "Press any key to exit..." in the command prompt.
You've now downgraded to Android 10!
THIRD STEP: FLASHING A CUSTOM KERNEL AND TWRP
A custom kernel is needed for TWRP to work, because the stock kernel comes with no LZMA support. Just download the kernel provided by the same developer of TWRP (@nikamura): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nuXc88t0Iokc0ha-AicOtZEUeGCGwQ-R/view?usp=sharing
And download TWRP, obviously: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PZaU9PpYmdcAHlyi0zhNwEGnBsAHDW_E/view?usp=sharing
Place both the kernel and TWRP where your fastboot.exe is.
Note that since you just used the factory image you have to boot Android 10 at least once and run the first boot wizard, before you can flash the kernel and TWRP. Also, turn on "USB debug" in Developer Options (see "FIRST STEP" for how to reach Developer Options).
Now, connect your phone to your PC.
In your command prompt type "adb devices". Follow prompt on your phone to permanently allow the adb connection to your pc.
Type the following commands (without quotes):
"adb reboot bootloader"
"fastboot flash boot TKernel-sunfish_V0.1.img"
"fastboot reboot bootloader"
"fastboot boot sunfish_twrp201017-test5.img"
The phone should now boot into TWRP on-the-fly, but it's not been flashed yet.
Place TWRP file on your phone with the following command:
"adb push sunfish_twrp201017-test5.img /sdcard/"
Now in TWRP go to "Install" > "Install Image" > "sunfish_twrp201017-test5.img" > "Install recovery ramdisk" > Swipe.
Now back to the home of TWRP > "Reboot" > "Recovery".
The phone should now boot into TWRP! And this time it's properly installed (not just sideloaded).
You can now reboot into Android 10.
FOURTH STEP: ROOTING WITH MAGISK
Now, you need to grab your current boot image. To do this, boot into TWRP (Vol UP + Power) > "Backup" > flag only "Boot (64MB)" > "Options" tab > unflag "Enable compression" > "Backup" tab > Swipe.
Reboot to Android 10.
Disable "Automatic System Updates" in Developer Options.
Connect phone to PC.
If you browse your phone, in /sdcard/TWRP/BACKUPS/xxxxxxxx/xxxxxxx/ there will be a file named "boot.emmc.win". That's your boot image and you can rename it "boot.img". It should weigh exactly 64MB.
Download Magisk Manager apk (credits @topjohnwu): https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/releases/download/manager-v8.0.7/MagiskManager-v8.0.7.apk
Copy Magisk Manager apk to your device.
Install Magisk Manager apk.
Open Magisk Manager. My locale is not English, so the following commands might slightly differ from what you will see, but still they should be easy to understand. Select 'Install' (Magisk) -> 'Select and Patch File' -> select your boot.img file -> 'Go!' -> it'll output the patched boot image to your Download folder.
Copy the magisk_patched_xxxxxx.img from Download folder to your pc, where your fastboot.exe is.
In your command prompt type:
"adb reboot bootloader"
"fastboot flash boot magisk_patched_xxxxxx.img"
"fastboot reboot bootloader"
You're now rooted!
Enter recovery to make sure TWRP is still working.
Reboot system.
Check in Magisk Manager the resulting installed version of Magisk is 21.4 (=rooted).
This worked great for me - thank you for the post!
Why would you patch the boot.img via Magisk Manager when you can just flash the Magisk v21.4 zip in TWRP?
I;m still confused AF why you would Patch the Boot.img with a working TWRP.img?
BTW: Are you passing safety net, not that it matters, but i figured i'd would on stock Android 10 at least....
Moto_Fan said:
Why would you patch the boot.img via Magisk Manager when you can just flash the Magisk v21.4 zip in TWRP?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that should supposedly work the same, although not personally tested.
Moto_Fan said:
I;m still confused AF why you would Patch the Boot.img with a working TWRP.img?
BTW: Are you passing safety net, not that it matters, but i figured i'd would on stock Android 10 at least....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Before flashing TWRP you need custom kernel.
Safetynet is ok, at the moment. Just need to flash this Magisk module: https://github.com/kdrag0n/safetynet-fix/
nor-ric said:
Yes, that should supposedly work the same, although not personally tested.
TESTED AND WORKED PERFECTLY!!!
Before flashing TWRP you need custom kernel.
Safetynet is ok, at the moment. Just need to flash this Magisk module: https://github.com/kdrag0n/safetynet-fix/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yea, I already found out about the module, and it did indeed work and passed safety net after cts profile failed.
Now on too Pixel 4a #2 ON android 12 PDP1, too ROOT or NOT to ROOT??? We'll find out soon enough i guess???
nor-ric said:
Hello,
I'm posting this guide for those (like me) who can't do without TWRP on their device.
I'm providing only a step-by-step explanation. Credits to @nikamura for his kernel and TWRP: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/twrp-3-4-0-0-for-sunfish-testing.4179101/
Credits to @Zackptg5 for his guide, from which I've started: https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/guide-unlock-root-safetynet-for-pixel-4a.4153773/
Credits to @topjohnwu for Magisk: https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk
DISCLAIMER: I don't take any responsibility if your phone explodes or anything... The guide is provided as is.
FIRST STEP: UNLOCKING THE BOOTLOADER
Download USB drivers for your phone here: https://androidfilehost.com/?fid=8889791610682922010
Download SDK Platform-Tools for Windows here: https://developer.android.com/studio/releases/platform-tools
Extract the SDK Platform-Tools to a directory of your choice.
Open your command prompt, change directory to where you extracted the Platform-Tools and type "fastboot". Depending on your Windows setup (I'm a linux guy, so I've used an ancient win8.1 installation in a VM...) you might receive a message of a missing dll (api-ms-win-crt-convert-l1-1-0.dll): if so, download and install the Universal C Runtime from https://support.microsoft.com/en-us...-windows-c0514201-7fe6-95a3-b0a5-287930f3560c
If you try the "fastboot" command once more, it should now work.
On your phone go to system settings -> About phone -> tap on 'Build number' several times until Developer Options is enabled.
Back out into settings and go to System -> Advanced -> Developer Options -> Enable 'OEM Unlocking'.
Switch off the phone.
Boot into fastboot by holding Vol Down + Power.
Plug the phone into a usb port of your pc.
In your command prompt type "fastboot devices". If there is no output, it means you have to install the USB driver. So, open "Device Manager" on your pc, right click on your Pixel 4A (should be on top of the list with a yellow exlamation mark) and update the driver choosing the USB drivers you previously downloaded. In Device Manger you should now read "Android Bootloader Interface", with no exlamation mark.
Now back to the command prompt, "fastboot devices" should now output a string with "fastboot" written next to it.
Now type 'fastboot flashing unlock' -> Follow prompt on the device to unlock the bootloader (note that this will FACTORY RESET the device).
The bootloader is now unlocked! You can now safely reboot (or it reboots on its own, I don't actually remember).
Note that after you unlock the bootloader you will see a reminder for a few seconds every time you reboot, reminding you that the phone is unlocked. That's normal and we have to live with that, as far as I know.
SECOND STEP: USING THE FACTORY IMAGE TO DOWNGRADE TO ANDROID 10
At present, TWRP is not available for Android 11. So we have to downgrade.
Download A10 factory image (version qd4a.200805.003) here: https://dl.google.com/dl/android/aosp/sunfish-qd4a.200805.003-factory-fac7c08d.zip
If you are paranoid like me, check the SHA-256 checksum of the download with some freeware hashing tool. The SHA-256 checksum should be: fac7c08d3d4cb92078fbcdbcc7e80fc4c438612a1a004d3d12814f51928458f3
Extract the files contained in the downloaded archive into the folder where your fastboot.exe is. To be clear, flash-all.bat should be in the same folder as fastboot.exe.
Place your phone in fastboot mode (Vol Down + Power).
Connect your phone to your PC.
In your command prompt type "fastboot devices" to make sure there is proper connection.
Double click "flash-all.bat".
The phone is going to reboot a few times. Just wait patiently until you read "Press any key to exit..." in the command prompt.
You've now downgraded to Android 10!
THIRD STEP: FLASHING A CUSTOM KERNEL AND TWRP
A custom kernel is needed for TWRP to work, because the stock kernel comes with no LZMA support. Just download the kernel provided by the same developer of TWRP (@nikamura): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nuXc88t0Iokc0ha-AicOtZEUeGCGwQ-R/view?usp=sharing
And download TWRP, obviously: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PZaU9PpYmdcAHlyi0zhNwEGnBsAHDW_E/view?usp=sharing
Place both the kernel and TWRP where your fastboot.exe is.
Note that since you just used the factory image you have to boot Android 10 at least once and run the first boot wizard, before you can flash the kernel and TWRP. Also, turn on "USB debug" in Developer Options (see "FIRST STEP" for how to reach Developer Options).
Now, connect your phone to your PC.
In your command prompt type "adb devices". Follow prompt on your phone to permanently allow the adb connection to your pc.
Type the following commands (without quotes):
"adb reboot bootloader"
"fastboot flash boot TKernel-sunfish_V0.1.img"
"fastboot reboot bootloader"
"fastboot boot sunfish_twrp201017-test5.img"
The phone should now boot into TWRP on-the-fly, but it's not been flashed yet.
Place TWRP file on your phone with the following command:
"adb push sunfish_twrp201017-test5.img /sdcard/"
Now in TWRP go to "Install" > "Install Image" > "sunfish_twrp201017-test5.img" > "Install recovery ramdisk" > Swipe.
Now back to the home of TWRP > "Reboot" > "Recovery".
The phone should now boot into TWRP! And this time it's properly installed (not just sideloaded).
You can now reboot into Android 10.
FOURTH STEP: ROOTING WITH MAGISK
Now, you need to grab your current boot image. To do this, boot into TWRP (Vol UP + Power) > "Backup" > flag only "Boot (64MB)" > "Options" tab > unflag "Enable compression" > "Backup" tab > Swipe.
Reboot to Android 10.
Disable "Automatic System Updates" in Developer Options.
Connect phone to PC.
If you browse your phone, in /sdcard/TWRP/BACKUPS/xxxxxxxx/xxxxxxx/ there will be a file named "boot.emmc.win". That's your boot image and you can rename it "boot.img". It should weigh exactly 64MB.
Download Magisk Manager apk (credits @topjohnwu): https://github.com/topjohnwu/Magisk/releases/download/manager-v8.0.7/MagiskManager-v8.0.7.apk
Copy Magisk Manager apk to your device.
Install Magisk Manager apk.
Open Magisk Manager. My locale is not English, so the following commands might slightly differ from what you will see, but still they should be easy to understand. Select 'Install' (Magisk) -> 'Select and Patch File' -> select your boot.img file -> 'Go!' -> it'll output the patched boot image to your Download folder.
Copy the magisk_patched_xxxxxx.img from Download folder to your pc, where your fastboot.exe is.
In your command prompt type:
"adb reboot bootloader"
"fastboot flash boot magisk_patched_xxxxxx.img"
"fastboot reboot bootloader"
You're now rooted!
Enter recovery to make sure TWRP is still working.
Reboot system.
Check in Magisk Manager the resulting installed version of Magisk is 21.4 (=rooted).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Would like to go this route for reasons you have stated above. Have a few questions:
1: If you use normally use Linux why did you use a Windows VM rather than simply do all operations in a Linux terminal?
2: After the above transition will SU required programs such as Titanium Backup and Adaway install and function as they have in the past? I had previously rooted current P4a and neither of the above programs would install?????
3: Will SuperSuperuser be installed under this environment?
I have rooted several devices in the past using varied methods and things seem to have changed drastically since my previous Nexus 6p
Thanks
CarlInMO said:
2: After the above transition will SU required programs such as Titanium Backup and Adaway install and function as they have in the past? I had previously rooted current P4a and neither of the above programs would install?????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the above steps and titanium backup, root explorer and other root apps work great.
CarlInMO said:
3: Will SuperSuperuser be installed under this environment?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will NOT use a separate SU app - Magisk has a built-in SU interface that will pop-up and grant SU permission when an app asks for it - just like the old SU app used to do.
JohnC said:
I did the above steps and titanium backup, root explorer and other root apps work great.
You will NOT use a separate SU app - Magisk has a built-in SU interface that will pop-up and grant SU permission when an app asks for it - just like the old SU app used to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the quick response, again!!! I like this phone but it looks at this point as if it has a rather small following here. Are you using the stock build or have you moved on to a custom ROM?
CarlInMO said:
Thanks for the quick response, again!!! I like this phone but it looks at this point as if it has a rather small following here. Are you using the stock build or have you moved on to a custom ROM?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Using stock android 10 image from google because TWRP and Edxposed are stable with android 10, not 11.
And what happens to root & TWRP after upgrade back to Android 11. I assume installed apps continue to operate OK
TWRP has now been modded and is working with A11! Details in the TWRP thread!